Abstract: An ankle brace including an ankle wrap assembly including a main body having an inner surface, an outer surface, a top, a bottom, a front defining a foot opening, a first side panel, a second side panel, a rear, and a bottom panel. The ankle brace includes first and second ankle pads attached to the main body; a first support attached to the main body first side panel, and a second attached to the main body second side panel, and a bottom support. The ankle brace is configured to be secured to a user's ankle when worn.

Abstract: An orthopedic device is provided for treating complications of the hip and has means for trochanter compression, pelvis support, lumbar compression, variously directed straps, and thigh support. The trochanter compression and an internal/external rotation strap provide pain relief through compression and skin protection, unloading of joints through compression and sealing, and unloading by load transfer. Means for adjustably dosing of straps enables pain management and ease of use.

Abstract: An orthopedic device for supporting a lower back of a user includes a mechanical energy store, a pelvic element, an upper body element with a first force transmission element and an upper leg element with a second force transmission element. The upper leg element is arranged on the pelvic element such that it can be swivelled about a first swivel axis, the upper body element is movably arranged relative to the pelvic element, the first force transmission element can be engaged and disengaged with the second force transmission element by moving the upper body element relative to the pelvic element, and the mechanical energy store can be charged and discharged by swivelling the upper leg element relative to the upper body element when the first force transmission element is engaged with the second force transmission element.

Abstract: Lower leg support apparatuses can include: a member extending from a first end to a second end; opposing sidewalls of the member extending from a floor of the member above a base of the member; the sidewalls being tapered to be thicker about the first end in at least one cross section and thinner about the second end in at least another cross section; and the floor defining at least three levels of thickness in relation to the base, each of the three levels being different from any of the other levels. Methods for supporting a lower leg can include: embracing a lower leg with a support member extending between above the ankle to the mid-calf; the member providing tapered sidewalls that engage the length of the supported lower leg; and the member providing discrete support elevations that embrace the Achilles tendon, the lower leg, and the mid-calf.

Abstract: Systems and methods of measuring feet and designing and creating orthopedic inserts are described. A leg length discrepancy of a user is measured and this data, along with foot size are input into a computer. The computer then creates a computer model of a custom shoe insert based on this information. The computer model is then sent to a 3D printer to print the insert. The insert consists of a base insert with partial correction, and several additional layers that are added successively over time until a full correction is obtained. This eliminates any pain associated with a fully corrective insert, and allows the body to adjust gradually to the correction.

Abstract: A system and method directed for a sizing device and erectile ring is described where the sizing device properly measures one's girth to correctly find the proper size erection ring. The sizing device has a measuring tape that will slide through a plurality of perimeter components with a track running through each of the perimeter components for the measuring tape to easily travel through whereby a measurement is then obtained when the perimeter components come into contact with the penis whereby then an erectile is created from the sizing.

Abstract: A female smart wearable system for management of urine incontinence comprising of a female urinary external catheter to allow urine to drain without obstruction, provided with a stabilizer for supporting and bounding/confining the external catheter in the contour of female genitalia and a urine collection device which is either having a plurality of vertical chambers for collecting urine as well as supplying fluid to keep the subject clean in a more convenient and hygienic way or is having a disposable pad for female subject with moderate or low urinary incontinence. The female smart wearable system is worn by the female subject in an underwear integrated with plurality of sensors that provide data to help in understanding and preventing the problem of urine incontinence. The female smart wearable system integrates provision of washing inside the device and use of disposable pads makes it cost effective and reusable.

Abstract: Condom catheters and condom catheter systems containing a condom catheter are disclosed. The condom catheter systems utilize suction to attach a condom catheter to a patient's penis. Methods of making and using condom catheters are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to convert a dental, oral, orthodontic appliances, retainers, and dentures into a multifunctional oral appliance. The apparatus includes plurality of mechanical connectors and attachments made of plastic, ceramic, or metal, that convert any dental or oral appliances, into multipurpose, three dimensionally adjustable oral appliances for treating obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, temporomandibular joint and musculoskeletal disorders of the jaw, and for improving breathing from the mouth even when nasal passages are blocked.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved intravaginal drug delivery devices, i.e., intravaginal rings, useful for the prophylactic administration of dapivirine in combination with either an antimicrobial compound or a contraceptive to a human. The present invention also provides methods of blocking DNA polymerization by an HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme, methods of preventing HIV infection in a female human, methods of treating HIV infection in a female human, methods of preventing unintended pregnancy in a female human, and methods of preparing intravaginal rings.

Abstract: A rectocele device having an inflatable balloon and extendable armature inside of the balloon as the balloon expands provides added stability when used to push on a rectocele. More specifically, a rectocele handle can include a rectocele paddle, which can extend in length, and balloon combination extending from the handle. The paddle, generally comprised by a piston and piston housing, can increase its length by way of a piston extending in and out of the piston housing. When the rectocele paddle and balloon combination is deployed in a vagina, to push on the rectocele, the balloon is inflated which causes the piston to extend from the piston housing with the balloon inflation. The piston and piston housing paddle provide stability for the inflated balloon.

Abstract: A thermal pad for controlling a patient's temperature includes first and second chambers defined between interior and exterior layers. The first chamber circulates a temperature controlled fluid from a first inlet to a first outlet. The second chamber is in fluid communication with a port and a plurality of holes defined in the interior layer. Pressurized gas supplied to the second chamber is vented onto the patient to control the microclimate between the patient's skin and the thermal pad. An additional third chamber is provided in some embodiments that urges the thermal pad into contact with the patient when subjected to negative gauge pressure. In other embodiments, a negative gauge pressure chamber is allowed to partially inflate in order to urge the thermal pad into contact with the patient.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods of treating subjects using such medical devices are described. The medical device may include a housing with at least two chambers including a first chamber adjacent to a second chamber; a barrier between the first chamber and the second chamber; and a soft, flexible base. The first and second chambers may be airtight, the barrier configured to establish fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber upon an application of force to the barrier.

Abstract: Various embodiments are generally directed to a surgical instrument for detecting light, such as by measuring light traveling in a waveguide, for instance. Some embodiments are particularly directed to a determining one or more parameters associated with ocular surgery based on detection of the light. In one or more embodiments, for example, a surgical instrument may include a cannula, a waveguide, a transducer, and logic implemented in circuitry communicatively coupled with the transducer. In one or more such embodiments, the cannula may comprise at least a portion of the waveguide. In some embodiments, the transducer may detect light traveling in a first direction in the waveguide. In some such embodiments, the logic may determine at least one parameter associated with ocular surgery based on the light detected by the transducer.

Abstract: Devices and methods to remove trabecular meshwork to treat glaucoma and other conditions which may not utilize cutting elements when stripping the trabecular meshwork. The trabeculorhexis parts tissue by applying non-cutting shear and tension to the tissue to disinsert the tissue from its attachments. Reducing or eliminating the need for sharp cutting implements in the eye reduces the likelihood of incisional bleeding, iris and scleral tissue maceration and further inadvertent tissue damage of the gonio structure of the eye. In another aspect, a cutting element may be used to form a circumferential slit in a wall of Schlemm's canal in conjunction with removal of trabecular meshwork or independently.

Abstract: A system for supporting and aligning a patient during a color alteration procedure includes a laser system that delivers a laser in a first direction. A control computer may be adjacent the laser system for controlling the laser system. The control computer system may include a user interface in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The system may include a patient support structure having a patient support surface extending in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and configured to be adjustable to set a patient position or alignment relative to the laser system. Coarse adjustment hardware may be configured to cause automated and/or manual adjustments to the patient support surface in the first direction. Fine adjustment hardware may be configured to cause automated fine adjustments to the patient support surface in the first direction based on instructions received from the control computer.

Abstract: A method is provided for treating a targeted area of ocular tissue in a tissue-sparing manner comprising use of two or more therapeutic modalities, including thermal radiation source (such as an CW infrared fiber laser), operative in a wavelength range that has a high absorption in water, and photochemical collagen cross-linking (CXL), together with one or more specific system improvements, such as pen-operative feedback measurements for tailoring of the therapeutic modalities, an ocular tissue surface thermal control/cooling mechanism and a source of deuterated water/riboflavin solution in a delivery system targeting ocular tissue in the presence of the ultraviolet radiation. Additional methods of rapid cross-linking (RXL), are provided that enables cross-linking (CXL) therapy to be combined with thermal therapy.

Abstract: Embodiments of this invention generally relate to ophthalmic laser procedures and, more particularly, to systems and methods for lenticular laser incision. In an embodiment, an ophthalmic surgical laser system comprises a laser delivery system for delivering a pulsed laser beam to a target in a subject's eye, an XY-scan device to deflect the pulsed laser beam, a Z-scan device to modify a depth of a focus of the pulsed laser beam, and a controller configured to form a top lenticular incision and a bottom lenticular incision of a lens in the subject's eye.

Abstract: A combined corrective lens engaged with a lens shield and method therefor is provided. The lens shield is formed of a first lens portion which is subsequently engaged with an independently formed projecting portion. One surface of the projecting portion is configured for grinding to a prescription lens. The combined lens can include light filtering medium or layers only in the projecting portion or in both the projecting portion and first lens portion since the components are formed in advance and joined.

Abstract: A wound dressing for a burn or open wound is formed of a foam material body with an open center area. The thickness of the foam body creates a zone for air circulation and prevents contact with the wound. This may have a mesh, gauze or other air permeable cover over the open center area.

Abstract: An absorbent composite includes a porous base layer, a core layer, and a superabsorbent laminate layer. The core layer has a fluff pulp layer and superabsorbent polymer particles. The core layer is disposed on the base layer. The superabsorbent laminate layer is disposed on the core layer. The base layer, the core layer, and the superabsorbent laminate layer are compressed together and embossed under heat and pressure to form a plurality of embossed depressions. The embossed depressions are arranged across a major surface area of the superabsorbent laminate layer. The embossed depressions extend through the composite from the superabsorbent laminate layer and into the core layer and the base layer. A thin, soft, and pliable absorbent composite suitable for a variety of applications including wound care is thereby provided.

Abstract: A system for treating a tissue site includes a reduced-pressure source to apply reduced pressure, a manifold in fluid communication with the pressure source to provide reduced pressure to the tissue site, and a drape for adhering to the tissue site to cover the tissue site and the manifold. The drape includes an adhesive layer for sealing the drape to the tissue site to create a sealed space having the manifold therein, and a non-adhesive layer formed from a portion of the adhesive layer. A method for manufacturing a medical drape includes providing a sheet of adhesive material and treating a side of the sheet of adhesive material to form a non-adhesive layer and an adhesive layer. The method laminates a release liner adjacent the adhesive layer.

Abstract: An orthosis chosen from a venous support orthosis and an elastic venous compression orthosis, the orthosis including a ribbed top and a leg part, the ribbed top including an intermediate part extending the leg part, the stitch being different on each side of the boundary separating the leg part and the intermediate part, a welt extending the intermediate part and of a height less than 1.5 cm.

Abstract: A stretch laminate includes a first layer including an elastomer film, the first layer having a surface, and a second layer including a nonwoven material, the second layer having a surface that is attached to the surface of the first layer. The tensile behavior in the transverse direction of the stretch laminate is within about 2.5 N/cm of the tensile behavior in the transverse direction of the film at an engineering strain of about 1.5, and exists independent of mechanical activation. A method of making the stretch laminate and an absorbent article having at least one region defined by the stretch laminate are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates in general to portable first aid kits and, in particular, to a low profile first aid kit that is adaptable for a quick release from a carrier and can be easily stored and carried by a person. The design of the disclosed release system allows for the first aid kit to be released with one hand from a carrier with mounting capabilities. Additionally, the medical kit includes a dual purpose carrier strap that can either be wound around the first aid kit and operable to torque the kit for storage purposes when in the closed position, or used to carry the kit in the open position until it can be secured and subsequently stored.

Abstract: A spring supported tray for mitigating a dominant frequency imparted thereto is provided. The spring supported tray includes a tray including a topside and underside, and configured to support an object on the topside, and N springs supporting the tray, N being a positive integer. A first end of each of the N springs is disposed at the underside of the tray. A second end of each of the N springs is disposed so as to receive vibrational motion imparted to the second end of each of the N springs from a source of the vibrational motion, the vibrational motion having a dominant undesired frequency fdom. Each of the N springs has a spring constant k defined by the equation: k = f n 2 ? 4 ? ? ? 2 ? w Ng where w denotes the collective weight of the tray and the object, g denotes the force of gravity, and fn denotes a natural frequency of the spring supported tray supporting the object, wherein fn is a lower frequency than the dominant undesired frequency fdom.

Abstract: An automatic wheelchair locking system including: a first lock for a first wheel; a first persistent driver configured to engage and disengage the first lock; at least one processor configured to control the first persistent driver; and a memory having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, control the at least one processor to: in response to receiving instructions to disengage the first lock while the first lock is engaged, control the first persistent driver to disengage the first lock; and in response to receiving instructions to engage the first lock while the first lock is disengaged, control the first persistent driver to engage the first lock.

Abstract: A dampening system is efficient in dampening vibration through a wheelchair frame. The system allows a lower base frame and wheels to be rigidly attached, while an upper seat frame is joined to the base frame through elastomeric dampening bushings to isolate the seat frame from the base frame. The bushings may be hidden in vertical upright tubes of the base frame. The bushings can also be used for supporting front caster forks and/or a rear axle assembly in isolation to the base frame.

Abstract: A surgical table with independently extendable or foldable side extension platforms (side rails) allowing accommodation of patients with variable physical characteristics. Said surgical table side extension platforms may be operated manually or by electrical or pneumatic actuators and may be controlled by a local or a remote (wireline or wireless connected) controller.

Abstract: A sling bar assembly allows variable positioning of a sling on the sling bar assembly. Some sling bar assemblies include opposing sling bar members that are movable with respect to one another in a lateral direction. Some opposing sling bar members are repositionable between a locked position, in which movement of the sling members with respect to one another is restricted, and an unlocked position. Some sling bar assemblies include multiple sling hooks positioned on a sling bar member. Some sling bar assemblies include a biasing member that permits movement of a sling hook with respect to the sling bar assembly in the lateral direction.

Abstract: An upper limb exercise apparatus comprises a base, a frame, and a display mounted on the frame. The apparatus further comprises 5-bar linkage-type movable parts positioned on the display and including a first link and a second link. The first link comprises a 1-1 member having one end attached to the frame and being rotationally driven, and a 1-2 member having one end rotatably attached to the other end of the 1-1 member, the other end having attached thereto a handle for gripping. The second link comprises a 2-1 member having one end attached to the frame and being rotationally driven, and a 2-2 member having one end rotatably attached to the other end of the 2-1 member, the other end having attached thereto the handle and the other end of the 1-2 member. Series elastic actuators attached to the 1-1 member and the 2-1 member provide torque.

Abstract: A motion assistance apparatus including a proximal support configured to support a proximal part of a user, a distal support configured to support a distal part of the user, a hollow actuator on the proximal support, a reducer inserted in the hollow actuator such that an input end of the reducer is connected to an output end of the hollow actuator, and a driving frame configured to connect an output end of the reducer to the distal support is disclosed.

Abstract: A method of operating an exoskeleton system that includes determining a first state estimate for a current classification program being implemented by the exoskeleton system; determining a second state estimate for a reference classification program; determining that a difference between the first and second state estimate is greater than a classification program replacement threshold; generating an updated classification program; and replacing the current classification program with the updated classification program based at least in part on the determining that the difference between the first and second state estimates is greater than the classification program replacement threshold.

Abstract: A soft-inflatable exosuit for knee rehabilitation is fabricated in two different beam-like structures (I and O cross-section actuators) and mechanically characterized for their torque performance in knee-extension assistance. The fabrication procedure of both types of actuators is presented as well as their integration into a light-weight, low-cost and body-conforming interface. To detect the activation duration of the device during the gait cycle, a soft-silicone insole with embedded force-sensitive resistors (FSRs) is used. In evaluation studies, the soft inflatable exosuit device is tested for its ability to reduce muscle activity during the swing phase of the knee. Using sEMG (surface electromyography) sensors, the rectus femoris muscle group of a healthy individual is recorded while walking on a treadmill at a constant speed, with and without the soft device.

Abstract: An underactuated exoskeleton for lower-limbs, for supporting the knee of a user, includes a first and a second coupling frame and a movement means associated with the first and with the second frame configured to confer to the second frame a roto-translation movement with respect to the first frame or vice versa. The exoskeleton further includes a junction means operatively interposed between the movement means and the first frame and/or the second frame configured to allow a relative rotation between the first and the second frame in a second plane, orthogonal to the first plane, a rotation of said second frame about said main axis of the leg and a relative translation between the first and the second frame in the second plane.

Abstract: A lightweight, mobile treadmill attachment designed for effective weight reduction, anti-gravity suspension is disclosed. The treadmill attachment provides a system in which an elastic cord is suspended within a frame that attaches to the arms of a treadmill. The elastic cord imparts an equalized lifting force throughout the suspension system by a rope camming system to a user to provide an effective weight loss and anti-gravity functionality.

Abstract: A spring-loaded tip attachment for a walking aid features a compression spring having axially opposing proximal and distal ends, a mount connected to the proximal end of said compression spring and configured for attachment to a shaft of said walking aid at or proximate a bottom end thereof, and a shoe connected to the distal end of said compression spring for spring-loaded contact of said shoe with a ground or floor surface during use of said walking aid. A plurality of attachments are respectively configured with different spring rates intended for users within different body weight categories. Attachments with greater spring rates are given to users in higher-weight categories, and attachments with lesser spring rates are given to users in lower-weight categories.

Abstract: A rollator having a first side frame and a second side frame; the first side frame comprising a first side frame intervening structural portion; the second rolling side frame comprising a second side frame intervening structural portion; a central platform having a first platform side and a second platform side; and first and second track mechanisms respectively coupling the first and second side portions to the first and second platform sides of the central platform; the first and second track mechanisms permitting independent movement of said first and second side frames relative to said central platform.

Abstract: A pressure therapy device includes a pressure chamber, an inflatable padding, a seal, and a positioning mechanism. The pressure chamber has an opening arranged for admitting the inflatable padding and a limb of a user. The inflatable padding is inflatable to enclose and fix the limb in position. The seal covers the opening, including the inflatable padding and the limb to seal the pressure chamber from ambient atmospheric pressure. A pump unit is provided to generate a non-atmospheric pressure within the pressure chamber and includes a first valve system and a piston with safety release features for preventing unsafe pressure levels.

Abstract: A reduced friction massage and exercise device, which includes a base frame and at least one anchoring arrangement for anchoring a first body part of a user. A reduced friction surface is mounted onto the base frame, and includes a plurality of ball transfer units arranged such that adjacent ball transfer units engage one another. The device further includes at least one cable column including a weight stack. Each of the motion transfer balls is adapted for omnidirectional rotation relative to a corresponding housing element and independently of other the motion transfer balls. The reduced friction surface is adapted to have a second body part of the user placed thereon during performing of a physical activity applying force to the second body part, while reducing friction between the second body part and the surface.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a female masturbation device for improving sexual experience. The female masturbation device includes a housing. A cavity is arranged on the housing. A vibrating diaphragm is arranged on a bottom portion of the cavity. The vibrating diaphragm is fixedly connected to the bottom portion of the cavity or is integrally formed with the bottom portion of the cavity. A vibrating driving mechanism is arranged inside the housing. The vibrating driving mechanism is configured to drive the vibrating diaphragm to reciprocate. A swinging head is formed on the vibrating diaphragm. The swinging head extends along a direction of an opening of the cavity.

Abstract: An elevation device used in the performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and after resuscitation includes a base and an upper support operably coupled to the base. The upper support is configured to elevate an individual's upper back, shoulders and head. The elevation device also includes a chest compression device coupled with the base. The chest compression device is configured to compress the chest and to actively decompress the chest.

Abstract: Energy stimulated acupuncture, directed to a novel set of acupoints, is implemented to treat hypertension. The disclosed methods and systems are directed toward the application of electrical stimulation, or other forms of energy, to specific acupuncture points, using devices such as transcutaneous electrical stimulation electroacupuncture devices, laser acupuncture devices or ultrasound acupuncture devices, to treat hypertension, particularly in middle-aged women.

Abstract: A two cell container device the device includes a first housing and configured to house a liquid, the first housing including a body, wherein the body further comprises an annular form with an interior reservoir for the liquid and a central through-hole and a mouth portion providing access to the interior receptacle. The two cell container device includes a second housing, the second housing secured within the through-hole, the second housing configured to house at least a pill, wherein the second housing includes a first side including at least a pill receptacle having an opening and a second side adhered to the first side, wherein the second side covers the opening.

Abstract: A container gripping aid (1) has a jacket (2) for reception of a container such as a baby bottle (3). The jacket (2) has a mesh configuration with a plurality of through-holes (5) to facilitate gripping of the jacket (2) by a baby. The jacket (2) has an egg-like shape. Thus, when it is engaged with the bottle (3), most of the jacket (2) side wall is supported spaced-apart from an exterior side wall (6) of the container (3) which enables a baby to easily grip the mesh of the jacket (2).

Abstract: A feeding set for use with a peristaltic enteral feeding pump to deliver nutritional liquid fluid to a patient includes a container having nutritional liquid. A conduit assembly includes tubing placeable in fluid communication with the container and adapted for mounting on the enteral feeding pump. The tubing provides a fluid pathway for delivering the nutritional liquid from the container to a patient when the tubing is mounted on the enteral feeding pump. An identification member is mounted on the conduit assembly and has at least one characteristic of a nutritional liquid associated with the feeding set represented by the identification member. The identification member is positioned on the conduit assembly so as to permit automatic identification by the enteral feeding pump of the at least one characteristic of the nutritional liquid upon mounting the conduit assembly on the enteral feeding pump.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a new material used to form semi-rigid shapes. The new material comprises a specific blend of materials and a method of making the blend pertaining to temperatures and conditions. Items made of or comprising the new material in accordance with the invention will exhibit both suitable rigidity and durability along with long-lasting flavor to be used in the construction of a number of items, including teething devices, drinking cups, drinking straws and other utensils. The material itself and the inventive devices may be used to flavor other foods. For example, a teething device made from the flavor infused material encourages the child to use the device for longer periods, thereby providing better relief than prior art teethers. Flavored straws may be employed to add, or provided to blend, the flavor of the straw with the flavor of the liquid pulled through the straw. The flavor character is expected to last a minimum of 6 months and typically at least to 2 years or more.

Abstract: An orthodontic adhesive includes components capable of allowing easy debonding of an orthodontic device from a patient's tooth. The adhesive includes an engineered marine mussel protein. The adhesive may include at least one photocleavable moiety. The adhesive is applied in one or more individual layers. One of the components of the adhesive is capable of binding to a tooth and the other component may be capable of binding to an orthodontic device. A method of adhering an orthodontic device to a tooth includes applying a layer of an orthodontic adhesive to either the tooth or the orthodontic device or the tooth and the orthodontic device and affixing the orthodontic device to the tooth with the orthodontic adhesive situated between the tooth and the orthodontic device. The engineered marine mussel protein includes one or more catechol moieties or one or more derivatives of a catechol moiety.

Abstract: Provided herein are high performance dental restoration compositions, particularly two-part compositions having good self-cure times. Also provided herein are methods for restoring or filling a cavity in a tooth in an individual with the two-part dental restoration compositions. In particular, compositions provided herein are useful in restoring large cavities, including Class I and Class II cavities.

Abstract: A method of using a dental filler is disclosed. The method may include securing a prosthetic to a dental implant, the prosthetic having an access channel therethrough. The method may also include filling a portion of the access channel by inserting a polytetrafluoroethylene dental plug into the access channel and compressing the polytetrafluoroethylene dental plug within the access channel.