Abstract: A method is disclosed herein for treating a polymeric surface to resist non-specific binding of biomolecules and attachment of cells. The method includes the steps of: imparting a charge to the polymeric surface to produce a charged surface; exposing the charged surface to a nitrogen-rich polymer to form a polymerized surface; exposing the polymerized surface to an oxidized polysaccharide to form an aldehyde surface; and exposing the aldehyde surface to a reducing agent. Advantageously, a method is provided which produces surfaces that resist non-specific protein binding and cell attachment and that avoids the use of photochemical reactions or prior art specially designed compounds.

Abstract: Methods using light force to fabricate WGM sensors including microresonators having target receptors selectively and substantially provided at only ribbon area of the microresonators.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide methods and materials for making analyte sensors having a plurality of layered elements such as amperometric glucose sensors that are used by diabetic individuals to monitor blood sugar concentrations. Embodiments of the invention utilize plasma deposition technologies to form thin films of adhesion promoting compositions useful in such sensors. Sensors that incorporate the thin film compositions formed by these processes exhibit a number of desirable characteristics.

Abstract: A bi-stable sensor is provided that includes a frame upon which electrical and optical components may be disposed and a coating, such as an overmold coating, provided about the frame. A resistance-providing component is provided integral with or external to the coated bi-stable sensor such that the bi-stable sensor has two mechanically stable configurations that may be transitioned between by overcoming the resistance provided by the resistance-providing component and/or the by the coating. In one embodiment, the resistance-providing component comprises an elastic band provided about a hinge of the frame, either within or external to the coating. In one embodiment, the sensor may be placed on a patient's finger, toe, ear, and so forth to obtain pulse oximetry or other physiological measurements.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical electrode (1) comprising an electrode head (2) and an electric feed line (3) to the electrode head (2), said teed line (3) having an electrically conductive shielding layer (4), a dielectric element (5), and an electric conductor (6). The feed line (3) has an elongate substrate element (7) onto which the electrically conductive shielding layer (4) is at least partly printed. The at least partly printed shielding layer (4) entirely surrounds the dielectric element (5) and the electric conductor (6) transversely to the longitudinal axis (L) of the feed line (3). The shielding layer comprises an upper (4a) and a lower (4b) shielding ply.

Abstract: The invention provides coated sensors for detecting the presence of analytes. The sensor comprises one or more fluorescent sources, such as one or more quantum dots or one or more fluorescent dyes, a polymeric matrix, a surface coating, and one or more analyte sensing components. The surface coating may be a conformal polymeric film, permeable to the analyte, which may be deposited via a solventless process such as initiated chemical vapor deposition or photoinitiated chemical vapor deposition. The surface coating may increase the biocompatibility of the sensor, reduce nonspecific protein adsorption, and/or sequester functional sensor components within the sensor. The invention also provides methods for detecting the presence of an analyte with coated sensors of the invention.

Abstract: Disclosed are antifouling compositions that can include a biopolymeric matrix which is substantially zwitterionic. The compositions may include a biopolymer matrix having positively charged functional groups, negatively charged functional groups, zwitterionic functional groups, or a combination thereof, such that the composition is substantially zwitterionic. The compositions can be used as additives and as compositions further containing a base material such as paint or lacquer. Methods of making and using such compounds and compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device comprising a biosensor having disposed upon it a coating; the coating comprising a polymer matrix; where the polymer matrix is operative to facilitate the inwards and outwards diffusion of analytes and byproducts to and from the sensing element of the biosensor; and a sacrificial moiety; the sacrificial moiety being dispersed in the polymer matrix, where the sacrificial moiety erodes with time and increases the porosity of the polymer matrix thus offsetting decreases in analyte permeability as a result of biofouling.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring movement of a body part of a subject. The method illustratively includes mounting on the body part, via at least one dielectric, at least two conductive elements in a manner as to define a fixed spacing between the elements and wherein the distance between the conductive elements and the body part varies with movement of the body part. Changes are measured in capacitance between the elements and the body part that result from movement of the body part.

Abstract: Methods and systems for preventing or eliminating blood coagulation or thrombus during use of an intravenous anti-thrombotic sensor are disclosed. The method further comprises for providing antimicrobial into the infusion fluid source. An anti-thrombotic sensor is also disclosed that comprises a coating of a complex of a non-heparin anti-thrombotic agent and an alkylbenzyldimethyl ammonium cationic salt.

Abstract: Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to analyte determining methods and devices (e.g., electrochemical analyte monitoring systems) that have improved uniformity of distribution of the sensing layer by inclusion of a high-boiling point solvent, where the sensing layer is disposed proximate to a working electrode of in vivo and/or in vitro analyte sensors, e.g., continuous and/or automatic in vivo monitoring using analyte sensors and/or test strips. Also provided are systems and methods of using the, for example electrochemical, analyte sensors in analyte monitoring.

Abstract: A method of forming a nanocrystalline surface on an implant. The method includes the act of roughening at least a portion of the implant surface to form a roughened surface. The method further includes the act of, without forming an alkoxide on the roughened surface, depositing nanocrystals on the roughened surface. The nanocrystals include a material having a property that promotes osseointegration.

Abstract: A method is disclosed herein for treating a polymeric surface to resist non-specific binding of biomolecules and attachment of cells. The method includes the steps of: imparting a charge to the polymeric surface to produce a charged surface; exposing the charged surface to a nitrogen-rich polymer to form a polymerized surface; exposing the polymerized surface to an oxidized polysaccharide to form an aldehyde surface; and exposing the aldehyde surface to a reducing agent. Advantageously, a method is provided which produces surfaces that resist non-specific protein binding and cell attachment and that avoids the use of photochemical reactions or prior art specially designed compounds.

Abstract: A new substrate makes it possible to modify surface properties relating to biocompatibility. Said substrate has an electron donating surface, characterized in having metal particles on said surface, said metal particles comprising palladium and at least one metal chosen from gold, ruthenium, rhodium, osmium, iridium, and platinum, wherein the amount of said metal particles is from about 0.001 to about 8 ?g/cm2. The substrate is suggested for different uses, such as for modifying the hydrophobicity, protein adsorption; tissue ingrowth, complement activation, inflammatory response, thrombogenicity, friction coefficient, and surface hardness.

Abstract: A flux limiting layer for an intravenous amperometric biosensor is formed on a substrate to limit a diffusion rate of an analyte from blood to an enzyme electrode. The layer may be formed from ethylene vinylacetate (EVA) dissolved in a solvent such as paraxylene, spray-coated to cover a portion of the electrode, and cured to seal the electrode to the substrate. In a glucose sensor having glucose oxidase disposed on the electrode, thickness and concentration of the EVA layer are optimized to promote a linear output of electrode current as a function of blood glucose concentration.

Abstract: Devices and methods for delivering a therapeutic substance to a patient are provided. Embodiments include infusion sets that include an active agent. Also provided are systems and kits.

Abstract: Novel, lubricious coatings for medical devices are disclosed. The coatings provide improved lubricity and durability, and are readily applied in coating processes. The present invention is also directed to a novel platinum catalyst for use in such coatings. The catalyst provides for rapid curing, while inhibiting cross-linking at ambient temperatures, thereby improving the production pot life of the coatings.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention include a 2-up manufacturing technique for producing test strips to reduce costs, reduce waste, and increase output. Other techniques relating to the 2-up technique, such as simultaneously manufacturing test strips arranged in multiple columns, are also disclosed. Yet other techniques include cutting through the upper and lower substrates to form an overhang of either the upper or the lower substrate. Other embodiments include a dual-use biosensor in which a user can apply a sample of bodily fluid to both test strips simultaneously.

Abstract: A method of coating a microneedle array by applying a coating fluid using a flexible film in a brush-like manner. A method of coating a microneedle array comprising: providing a microneedle array having a substrate and a plurality of microneedles; providing a flexible film; providing a coating solution comprising a carrier fluid and a coating material; applying the coating solution onto a first major surface of the flexible film; performing a transfer step of bringing the first major surface of the flexible film into contact with the microneedles and removing the flexible film from contact with the microneedles; and allowing the carrier fluid to evaporate.

Abstract: An assembly for reducing motion artifacts that includes an opening on the face of the assembly, an elastic material at least partially covering the opening for suspending objects above the opening, and a sensor attached to the elastic material wherein the sensor is suspended over the opening so that the sensor may be moved in the direction of the opening so that it at least partially recesses into the opening when the sensor is positioned against a subject. The tension on the elastic material generates a force on the sensor directed towards the subject as the elastic material is stretched. Methods and systems of reducing motion artifacts including methods and systems using the assembly are also claimed.

Abstract: Devices and methods are described for providing continuous measurement of an analyte concentration. In some embodiments, the devices include a membrane that has an interference domain designed to reduce the permeation of one or more interferents.

Abstract: A method of forming a coating on a medical device having a controlled morphology is described. A medical device having a controlled morphology is described.

Abstract: A method of forming a coating on a medical device having a controlled morphology is described.

Abstract: The invention provides an implantable membrane for regulating the transport of analytes therethrough that includes a matrix including a first polymer; and a second polymer dispersed throughout the matrix, wherein the second polymer forms a network of microdomains which when hydrated are not observable using photomicroscopy at 400× magnification or less. In one aspect, the homogeneous membrane of the present invention has hydrophilic domains dispersed substantially throughout a hydrophobic matrix to provide an optimum balance between oxygen and glucose transport to an electrochemical glucose sensor.

Abstract: An encapsulated surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) tag. The tag includes a metal core and an encapsulant, typically a glass encapsulant. The encapsulant is further derivatized with a polymer.

Abstract: Assays in which samples of biological fluids are dispensed into the inlet port of a microfluidic device are improved in the accuracy and repeatability by dispensing the biological sample and/or associated liquids in small droplets and at timed intervals to control the operation of the microfluidic device.

Abstract: Devices with enhanced visualization in ultrasound imaging are provided.

Abstract: A medical device, such as a medical wire, which includes a coating applied to the surface of the medical wire. The coating includes a base layer bonded to the surface of the medical wire and an at least partially transparent low-friction top coat applied to the base layer. The base layer includes heat activated pigments that change color when heated above a color shifting temperature. In one embodiment, the color of the pigment in one area contrasts with the color of the pigment in an adjacent area without otherwise affecting the low-friction surface of the coating. The areas of different color created in locations along the length of the low-friction coated medical wire form markings which, as an example, enable a surgeon to determine the length of the medical wire inserted into a body by observing the markings on the portion of the marked medical wire located exterior to the body.

Abstract: A composition comprising a core comprising an iron oxide, a first shell comprising at least one plasmon active metal at least partially surrounding the core, a second shell comprising a dielectric material at least partially surrounding the first shell, and a third shell comprising at least one plasmon active metal at least partially surrounding the second shell.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a medical device having a polymerized base coat layer for the immobilization of an anti-thrombogenic material, such as heparin, thereon. The binding coat layer is comprised of various chemically functional groups which are stable and allow for the immobilization of the anti-thrombogenic material thereto. Methods for immobilizing the anti-thrombogenic material within the base coat layer posited on a surface of the medical device are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to membranes composed liquid crystals having continuous aqueous channels, such as a lyotropic liquid crystal, including a cubic phase lyotropic liquid crystal, and to electrochemical sensors equipped with such membranes. The membranes are useful in limiting the diffusion of an analyte to a working electrode in an electrochemical sensor so that the sensor does not saturate and/or remains linearly responsive over a large range of analyte concentrations. Electrochemical sensors equipped with membranes of the present invention demonstrate considerable sensitivity and stability, and a large signal-to-noise ratio, in a variety of conditions.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a method for making embolization particles for occluding fluid flow through a body vessel is provided. The method comprises positioning an elongated body of biocompatible material relative to a cutting device. The elongated body is defined by extrusion of a body cross-section along a longitudinal axis. The elongated body is cut with a cutting device at a plurality of locations along the longitudinal axis to form the embolization particles such that each of the embolization particles has a particle cross-section that corresponds to the body cross-section.

Abstract: A flexible tube 10 is constituted of a flexible tube material 14 and a covering layer 15 of two-layers of constitution having an inner layer 17 which covers the entire peripheral surface of the flexible tube material 14 and an outer layer 18 which covers the entire peripheral surface of the inner layer 17. The covering layer 15 is two-layer molded to have the inner layer 17 and the outer layer 18, by supplying two kinds of resins into one molding die at the same time, with being overlapped each other. As resins for molding the inner layer 17 and the outer layer 18, a combination of the soft resin and the hard resin is selected to be in conditions that the difference at the 100% modulus value, which is an index of a hardness after molding, is equal to or more than 10 MPa, and that the difference of the melt viscosity in the molding temperature of 150° C. to 200° C., which is an index of the fluidity in the molten state, is equal to or less than 2500 PaS.

Abstract: An implantable electrical lead suitable for left sided cardiac placement, the implantable medical electrical lead having an external blood contacting surface having an external coating including a monolayer of at least one biological agent that promotes endothelialization covalently attached to a polymeric lead surface.

Abstract: A method of detecting healing adjacent to an implanted medical device can first include pre-treating a surface of the medical device prior to implantation, thereby defining a pre-treated surface of the medical device. Then, subsequent to implantation, a portion of the pre-treated surface that is not covered by endothelial tissue is detected by a detection device.

Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer which can attenuate ultrasonic waves emitted toward the rear without increasing a thickness of a backing layer includes: a piezoelectric transducer which emits and receives ultrasonic waves; and the backing layer which is provided in contact with the rear of the piezoelectric transducer and which attenuates the ultrasonic waves emitted in a rear direction from the piezoelectric transducer. The backing layer includes a plurality of acoustic tubes formed in the rear direction from a plane of the backing layer that is in contact with the piezoelectric transducer. Each of the acoustic tubes has a different length based on a principle of superposition of acoustic waves. The acoustic tubes include an acoustic tube which has (i) a portion of the length formed in a direction perpendicular to the rear direction and (ii) the remaining portion of the length formed in a direction parallel to the rear direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a microneedle drug monitoring system, and also a microneedle device when provided with the drug monitoring system, comprising the selective and sequential coating of microneedles with layers of indicator material and therapeutic agent.

Abstract: The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also measure the conditions of the environment surrounding the system.

Abstract: In the field of dual-mode medical probes, a simple device perfectly meets the double need for dual-modality and sterilization, and provides a sterile, disposable, or sterilizable protective membrane, also called a “glove” or “sock”, equipped with optical fibres. This protective membrane can be slipped onto an ultrasound probe. It therefore ensures both the dual-mode functionality and perfect sterilization of the probe, this being the desired effect. The protective membrane is easy to produce and easy to use.

Abstract: A sensor for measuring biosignals is provided. The sensor comprises at least one electrode comprising: a substrate comprising a flexible non-conductive material; a conductive layer configured to transfer electrical signals; a gel layer configured to transfer electrical signals; and a barrier layer configured to protect the conductive layer and transfer electrical signals, wherein the barrier layer deposited on the substrate, the gel layer is deposited on the barrier layer so that the gel layer covers only a part of the barrier layer, and the conductive layer is deposited over an area of the barrier layer which is outside of an area of the barrier layer on which the gel layer is deposited.

Abstract: A medical electrical lead includes a drug eluting coating provided over at least a portion of the lead body. The drug eluting coating can be provided over at least a portion of the lead body and adjacent to at least one electrode located on the lead body. The drug eluting coating can include at least one matrix polymer layer including a polymer admixed with a therapeutic agent. The therapeutic agent, for example, can be an anti-proliferative agent or an anti-inflammatory agent. The matrix polymer can include a medical adhesive. The rate of elution of the drug from the matrix polymer layer is affected by the drug to polymer ratio of the drug in the matrix polymer layer.

Abstract: A gold-coated iron oxide nanoparticle, method of making thereof, and method of using thereof is disclosed. The nanoparticle is substantially toxin free (making it clinically applicable), easily functionalized, and can serve as a contrast agent for a number of imaging techniques, including imaging a subject in at least two distinct imaging modes. Further, the nanoparticle is well-suited for therapeutic uses.

Abstract: The present invention is directed, at least in part, to methods for imagewise patterning of a surface. Such patterned surfaces can be used, e.g., in microfluidic devices. Accordingly, the present invention is also directed, at least in part, to nanopatterned devices which include a microchannel structure and methods for forming such devices.

Abstract: A sheath for protecting an endoscope probe projecting from an endoscope head. The sheath comprises: an elongate tube with a bore for receiving the endoscope probe; a clamp at or near a proximal end of the sheath for gripping the endoscope head or the endoscope probe; and a window which is bonded to a distal end of the elongate tube. The window is formed from an elastomeric material. An endoscope probe is inserted into the bore of the elongate tube so that it engages the window, and a force is applied so that the window is pressed and stretched against the elongate tube. The application of force causing a wall thickness of at least part of the window to decrease. The clamp comprises a resilient member with an elongate opening which can be opened to admit the endoscope probe by compressing the resilient member in line with the length of the elongate opening.

Abstract: A method of coating a microneedle array by applying a coating fluid using a flexible film in a brush-like manner. A method of coating a microneedle array comprising: providing a microneedle array having a substrate and a plurality of microneedles; providing a flexible film; providing a coating solution comprising a carrier fluid and a coating material; applying the coating solution onto a first major surface of the flexible film; performing a transfer step of bringing the first major surface of the flexible film into contact with the microneedles and removing the flexible film from contact with the microneedles; and allowing the carrier fluid to evaporate.

Abstract: The invention provides an implantable membrane for regulating the transport of analytes therethrough that includes a matrix including a first polymer; and a second polymer dispersed throughout the matrix, wherein the second polymer forms a network of microdomains which when hydrated are not observable using photomicroscopy at 400× magnification or less. In one aspect, the homogeneous membrane of the present invention has hydrophilic domains dispersed substantially throughout a hydrophobic matrix to provide an optimum balance between oxygen and glucose transport to an electrochemical glucose sensor.

Abstract: The invention provides an implantable membrane for regulating the transport of analytes therethrough that includes a matrix including a first polymer; and a second polymer dispersed throughout the matrix, wherein the second polymer forms a network of microdomains which when hydrated are not observable using photomicroscopy at 400× magnification or less. In one aspect, the homogeneous membrane of the present invention has hydrophilic domains dispersed substantially throughout a hydrophobic matrix to provide an optimum balance between oxygen and glucose transport to an electrochemical glucose sensor.

Abstract: The present invention provides a flexible tube for an endoscope, including: a metallic core material which has a helical tube formed by winding a band-shaped member in a helical form, and a reticulated tube formed along an outer periphery of the helical tube; a casing layer which is formed on a surface of the metallic core material, has a surface subjected to an atmospheric pressure plasma treatment, and contains an olefin-based elastomer or a styrene-based elastomer; an adhesiveness enhancing layer which is formed along an outer periphery of the casing layer and contains a soft epoxy resin; and an overcoat layer which is formed along an outer periphery of the adhesiveness enhancing layer and contains a fluororesin having a vinylidene fluoride unit.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for producing and using electrodes, which may be flexible and/or stretchable, and interconnection structures that can be used both externally and/or implanted within the body. Electrodes according to various embodiments disclosed herein may be produced by depositing patterned layers of insulating and conductive polymers to form multi-layer circuits. The conductive materials and layers in the structure can be exposed on the surface of the structures for use as electrodes. A plurality of electrodes may be formed into an electrode array. In various embodiments, electrode arrays may be associated with telemetry modules configured to wirelessly transmit data collected by the electrode array to a receiver module.

Abstract: The present invention relates to medical devices that are inserted or implanted into patients and that have antimicrobial coatings that release free radicals into the vicinity of the device. These devices may have coatings that alter their rate of flow release or elution release of an antibacterial agent from a coating on the device upon external stimulation. The coating should therefore be responsive to external control such as by heating, external RF stimulus, sonic control, visible or ultraviolet light exposure and the like. By having control of the release rate, and in some structures without invasion of the patient by mechanical means in addition to the device itself, the release rate can be in response to need at the implant site. The class of compounds to be released are free radical generating or initiating compounds, or compounds that release free radicals upon immersion or stimulation, the free radicals acting as the antimicrobial agent.