Abstract: Implantable medical devices, and methods of coating same, including a plurality of components disposed on a substrate, and a low surface energy layer deposited as a liquid over at least a first portion of the components and the substrate, the low surface energy layer becoming solidified after deposition and conforming to at least the first portion of the components. The devices further include a biocompatible hermetic coating conforming to and sealingly covering at least a portion of the low surface energy layer.

Abstract: A medical system may include a shaft member and a structure physically coupled to the shaft member. A portion of the shaft member may be sized to be delivered through a bodily opening leading to a bodily cavity. The structure may include at least two flexible couplings, each flexible coupling extending transversely from an intermediate portion of a respective one of at least two elongate members of the structure. The flexible coupling extending transversely from the intermediate portion of a first one of the at least two elongate members forms at least a part of a first closed loop arranged to receive a portion of the flexible coupling of a second one of the at least two elongate members therethrough to limit a spacing between the intermediate portions of the first and the second ones of the at least two elongate members.

Abstract: A system for sensing multiple local electric voltages from endocardial surface of a heart, includes: an elongate tubular member having a lumen, a proximal end and a distal end; and a basket assembly including a plurality of flexible splines; an anchor for securably affixing proximal portions of the splines, where the anchor is securably affixed within the lumen of the elongate tubular member at the distal end of the elongate tubular member; and a tip for securably affixing the distal portions of the splines; where the tip is recessed within the basket assembly upon radial expansion of the basket assembly.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods for advanced electrode management in neurological monitoring applications include receiving sockets configured to receive connectors having groups of electrodes. The physician is not required to manually map each electrode with its corresponding input channel. Electrodes are coupled to the corresponding input channels in groups through connectors having a unique identification (ID). The system is configured to read the unique ID of each connector and establish its identity. Based on the ID, the system configures itself to automatically correlate or associate each electrode with its corresponding input channel when the connectors are first inserted into the receiving sockets, and again if the connectors are removed and re-inserted into different positions in the receiving sockets, to insure the electrodes are always mapped to the same input channels.

Abstract: A sensor is disclosed comprising, in at least one embodiment an electrode, a track and an electrical connector, wherein, the track is comprising an electrically conductive flexible and elastic material that comprises an electrically conductive material that is non-contiguous that when stretched is able to transmit an electrical signal from an electrode to an electrical connector and from an electrical connector to an electrode.

Abstract: A vehicle seating system is described that can detect and optionally quantify a drowsiness state and/or and emotional state of a seat occupant in the vehicle. A seat is mounted in a vehicle and houses a wireless electromagnetic sensing system at least partially integrated into the seat. These sensed signals can be used to determine the occupant's state. When the state exceeds a threshold, then wireless stimulation emitters output a stimulation signal to the occupant to alter the emotion state or drowsiness state to move the occupant to below the threshold and to a calm state or an alert state. The system can also use additional physiological sensor to measure at least one of a heart rate, a respiration rate, or both of the occupant to be used with the electromagnetic sensing at the seat.

Abstract: Sensor means for detection of bioelectrical signals, in particular, for implantation into or onto a brain wherein the sensor means comprises a first number of electrodes which can be coupled to a biological organism, in particular, to neural cells of a nervous system for tapping a first plurality of electrical potentials at the biological organism. According to the invention, the sensor means comprises means for providing an averaged electrical reference potential. The averaged electrical reference potential is formed from a plurality of detected electrical potential that are tapped at the biological organism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for neuromuscular stimulation of one or more muscles, or muscle groups, with one or more beneficial effects selected from increasing arterial, venous and capillary blood flow, increasing flux of interstitial fluid and lymphatic drainage, increasing tissue oxygenation, enhancing heat distribution, enhancing the distribution of pharmaceutical products, and enhancing performance and recovery from exertion in horses.

Abstract: Provided are a medical insertion apparatus including a screw body to be inserted into a body, and a conductive portion provided in the screw body and including an externally exposed portion, wherein the conductive portion may extend in a longitudinal direction of the screw body and form a single closed loop, and a medical insertion apparatus including a screw body to be inserted into a body, a driver to engage with the screw body to be used to fasten or loosen the screw body, and a conductive portion provided in the screw body and the driver and including an externally exposed portion on one side of the screw body, wherein a portion of the conductive portion disposed in the screw body and another portion of the conductive portion disposed in the driver may be electrically connected to each other.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method for improving imaging resolution of electrical impedance tomography (EIT). More specifically, the present disclosure forms virtual electrode(s) using an electric current steering technique, which is used to improve imaging resolution of an EIT system without physically increasing a number of conducting electrodes. The EIT system of the present disclosure may includes a plurality of conducting electrodes, at least one signal generator, at least one signal receiver and at least one electric current steering device. In other words, the present disclosure applies both the electric current steering technique and the virtual electrode technique to EIT. Consequently, imaging resolution of EIT can be improved without physically increasing the number of conducting electrodes.

Abstract: Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An implant tool for implanting a medical lead may include a shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end, and an attachment feature configured to couple to the medical lead. Such an implant tool provides a user with the versatility to use the same implant tool to either pull the lead through a tunnel formed via the implant tool or push the lead through the tunnel via the open channel in the implant tool.

Abstract: Measurement device for measuring a bio-impedance and/or a bio-potential of a human or animal body and adapted to be worn on the body, including: at least two electrode sensors. Each of the at least two electrode sensors includes a first electrical contact configured to be in electrical contact with the skin of the body when the system is worn, and a second electrical contact. A single electrical connector electrically connects the at least two electrode sensors with each other via the second electrical contact. An active device is configured to cooperate with a subset of the at least two electrode sensors such that the potential of the electrical connector is substantially equal to a projected potential determined from the potential of the first electrical contact of each electrode sensor of the subset when the measurement device is worn.

Abstract: Systems, articles, and methods for improved capacitive electromyography (“EMG”) sensors are described. The improved capacitive EMG sensors include one or more sensor electrode(s) that is/are coated with a protective barrier formed of a material that has a relative permittivity ?r of about 10 or more. The protective barrier shields the sensor electrode(s) from moisture, sweat, skin oils, etc. while advantageously contributing to a large capacitance between the sensor electrode(s) and the user's body. In this way, the improved capacitive EMG sensors provide enhanced robustness against variations in skin and/or environmental conditions. Such improved capacitive EMG sensors are particularly well-suited for use in wearable EMG devices that may be worn by a user for an extended period of time and/or under a variety of skin and/or environmental conditions. A wearable EMG device that provides a component of a human-electronics interface and incorporates such improved capacitive EMG sensors is described.

Abstract: A system includes a microprocessor executable verification module in a base unit and a microprocessor readable identifier of an endovasoular device in a memory of the endovascular device. The microprocessor executable verification module, based on the identifier, at least one of configures the endovascular device for use and determines whether the endovascular device can be enabled for use.

Abstract: A multielectrode array with a fluidic channel and its method of fabrication are presented here. In accordance with various embodiments, the present invention allows for scalability, reproducibility, and precision dimension control by utilizing a lithography dependent process. In one embodiment, the present invention provides for a microelectrode that is a neural implant, with the microelectrode configured for connection to a fluidic channel. In another embodiment, the fluidic channel may deliver growth factors and/or drugs.

Abstract: An electrode belt includes at least one electrode to measure biometric signals related to heart activity of a user, a non-conductive strip having at least one opening, and a flexible strip to enable placement of the electrode belt against the skin of the user. The non-conductive strip is coupled with the flexible strip such that, when in use, the at least one electrode is in physical contact with the skin of the user.

Abstract: Systems, articles, and methods for improved capacitive electromyography (“EMG”) sensors are described. The improved capacitive EMG sensors include one or more sensor electrode(s) that is/are coated with a protective barrier formed of a material that has a relative permittivity ?r of about 10 or more. The protective barrier shields the sensor electrode(s) from moisture, sweat, skin oils, etc. while advantageously contributing to a large capacitance between the sensor electrode(s) and the user's body. In this way, the improved capacitive EMG sensors provide enhanced robustness against variations in skin and/or environmental conditions. Such improved capacitive EMG sensors are particularly well-suited for use in wearable EMG devices that may be worn by a user for an extended period of time and/or under a variety of skin and/or environmental conditions. A wearable EMG device that provides a component of a human-electronics interface and incorporates such improved capacitive EMG sensors is described.

Abstract: A multi electrode catheter for non contact mapping of the heart having independent articulation and deployment features.

Abstract: A skin surface electrical stimulation device or electrode for use in the treatment of various conditions. The electrode has a plurality of conductive regions spaced from one another in predetermined positions around a non-conductive body that extends longitudinally from a head portion to a tail portion. At least two posterior conductors are positioned in the tail portion and spaced laterally from each other. One or more anterior conductors are positioned in the head portion and spaced longitudinally from the respective posterior conductors. An opening extends longitudinally rearwardly from an intermediate position in the body to split the tail portion into right and left portions. The electrode device is configured for placement proximate perineal area in an individual or animal for delivery of treatment via generating an electrical charge through respective conductors.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a vehicle steering wheel, relating to the field of auto part technologies, and solving the problems of being prone to occurrent of traffic accidents and reducing traffic safety when the driver is driving in a fatigue state. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle steering wheel comprises a wheel rim, at least one oximeter is provided within handheld areas of the wheel rim and connected to a control device connected to an alarm device; and the control device is configured to judge whether or not a driver is in a fatigue driving state according to an oxyhemoglobin saturation value in the body of the driver detected by the oximeter, and to control the alarm device to operate if judging the driver is in the fatigue driving state. The present invention is mainly applied in vehicles.

Abstract: A health-monitor patch comprising at least one physiological sensor and digital processor is configured to be adhered to the skin of a subject. A health-monitor patch may further include an accelerometer and may detect cardiac waveforms, activity performed by the subject, and a body orientation of the subject. A health-monitor patch may be disposable, in some embodiments, and used for outpatient monitoring. Aspects of noise cancellation and reel-to-reel manufacturing are also described.

Abstract: Methods, implantable medical devices and systems configured to perform analysis of captured signals from implanted electrodes to identify cardiac arrhythmias. In an illustrative embodiment, signals captured from two or more sensing vectors are analyzed, where the signals are captured with a patient in at least first and second body positions. Analysis is performed to identify primary or default sensing vectors and/or templates for event detection.

Abstract: Electrode arrays have a plurality of electrodes. These arrays may have any combination of the following improvements. The arrays may have features that enable easier electrical connections and reduced bending stiffness by having a stop region and a torsion relief region, respectively. The arrays may have a shielding feature that may reduce electrical interference. The arrays may come in pairs that are designed to simplify measurements of electric signals of bilateral organs and tissues, such as eyes and ears.

Abstract: The invention provides chip packaging and processes for the assembly of retinal prosthesis devices. Advantageously, photo-patternable adhesive or epoxy such as photoresist is used as glue to attach a chip to the targeted thin-film (e.g., parylene) substrate so that the chip is used as an attachment to prevent delamination.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an autonomous vehicle is operated in an autonomous mode, where during the autonomous mode, the autonomous vehicle operates without influence of a human driver riding the autonomous vehicle. An electrical current is detected flowing through a first electrode and a second electrode mounted on a steering wheel of the autonomous vehicle. In response to the detecting the electrical current flowing through the first and second electrodes, the autonomous vehicle is transitioned from the autonomous mode to a manual mode. Thereafter, the autonomous vehicle is operated in the manual mode in response to user actions from the human driver.

Abstract: A catheter for use in a patient's heart, especially for mapping a tubular region of the heart, has a catheter body, a deflectable intermediate section and a distal mapping assembly that has a generally circular portion adapted to sit on or in a tubular region of the heart. A control handle of the catheter allows for single-handed manipulation of various control mechanisms that can deflect the intermediate section and contract the mapping assembly by means of a deflection control assembly and a rotational control assembly. The deflection control assembly has a deflection arm and a rocker member. The rotational control assembly has an outer rotational member, an inner rotational member and a cam. A pair of puller members are responsive to the deflection control assembly to bi-directionally deflect the intermediate section. A third puller member is responsive to the rotational control assembly to contract the generally circular portion of the mapping assembly.

Abstract: Provided herein are implantable biomedical devices and methods of administering implantable biomedical devices, making implantable biomedical devices, and using implantable biomedical devices to actuate a target tissue or sense a parameter associated with the target tissue in a biological environment.

Abstract: An electrode includes separate first and second electrical contacts to contact the skin of a subject. A charge-holding structure is electrically connected between the first and second contacts. An indicator is operatively coupled to the charge-holding structure so that the indicator changes visibly in response to a change in the charge stored in the charge-holding structure. The electrode can include a rectifier across the contacts. A container for electrodes includes an electrical supply and a plurality of receptacles for electrodes so that a voltage difference is maintained across conductors of each receptacle (and contacts of an electrode therein) for at least one week. A method of making electrodes includes arranging the contacts over a support, connecting the charge-holding structure between them, arranging the indicator over the support, and charging the charge-holding structure so that the indicator has a first visual appearance.

Abstract: A prosthesis socket having a proximal end and a distal end, an opening at the proximal end for the insertion of a stump, a receiving device for a prosthesis component at the distal end, and at least one splint, which includes a dimensionally stable material and which, in the area of the distal end, comprises a circular receiver. The splint is embedded in a flexible matrix of plastic or silicone. The matrix of plastic or silicone forms a hollow profiled. At least one flexible and tensionally rigid limiting element is arranged on the splint.

Abstract: A medical device is presented for use in tissue characterization and treatment. The device comprises: a tissue characterization probe comprising an elongated carrier for carrying an array of tissue characterization sensors arranged in a spaced-apart relationship at least along an axis of said carrier, such that progression of the probe through a tissue mass provides for locating and determining a dimension of an abnormal tissue specimen inside said tissue mass based on characterization signals from the sensors in the array, thereby enabling consequent treatment of the abnormal tissue specimen by a treatment tool.

Abstract: A method of operating a datalogger adapted for logging sensor data from an absorbent article having at least one sensor element and the datalogger are described. The method includes: determining an external event; and on determination of the external event, transitioning from a first operating condition to a second operating condition. The external event can be an event selected from: a disconnection event in which the datalogger is disconnected from the absorbent article; a connection event in which the datalogger is connected to an absorbent article; a charge event in which the datalogger is connected to a charging station; and a user interaction event in which the user interacts with a user interface element of the datalogger. The first and second operation conditions can be selected from: a datalogging condition; a standby condition; a status notification condition; and a data transmission condition.

Abstract: A skin surface is treated with bipolar RF energy. A first semiconductive cap disposed on a first distal end of a first electrode and a second semiconductive cap disposed on a second distal end of a second electrode are applied to the skin surface. RF energy is delivered from the first electrode and the second electrode through the first semiconductive cap and the second semiconductive cap, respectively, through the skin surface. A thickness of each semiconductive cap between a blunt skin contacting surface and a curved surface affixed to a respective electrode is thicker at an inner portion and thinner at a center portion to homogenize the electrical field at the skin surface.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes systems, methods, and devices for performing thought-controlled neuromuscular stimulation. Also described are methods for producing a neuromuscular stimulation cuff. The systems and methods generally relate to receiving and processing thought signals indicative of an intended action, and then delivering stimulation to effectuate the intended action through a neuromuscular stimulation cuff. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff includes a flexible printed circuit board having at least one finger and a plurality of electrogel discs disposed on the at least one finger. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff may be produced as described herein. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff employs a flexible multi-electrode design which allows for reanimation of complex muscle movements in a patient, including individual finger movement.

Abstract: Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method of assembling an intravascular device is provided that include positioning a first tubular member around a plurality of conductors and a core member such that the plurality of conductors and the core member are at least partially positioned within a lumen of the first tubular member, the first tubular member including an opening extending along a length of the first tubular member in communication with the lumen; positioning a first conductive member around the first tubular member; advancing a first of the plurality of conductors through the opening of the first tubular member, longitudinally between the first tubular member and the first conductive member, and through to a position adjacent to the first conductive member; and electrically coupling the first of the plurality of conductors to the first conductive member.

Abstract: A wearable medical device is provided. The wearable medical device includes a garment that includes a sensing electrode, at least one of an inductive element and a capacitive element included in at least part of the garment, and a controller. The controller may be configured to determine a confidence level of information received from the sensing electrode based on at least one of an inductance of the inductive element and a capacitance of the capacitive element.

Abstract: A medical implant system is described for inhibiting infection associated with a joint prosthesis implant. An inventive system includes an implant body made of a biocompatible material which has a metal component disposed on an external surface of the implant body. A current is allowed to flow to the metal component, stimulating release of metal ions toxic to microbes, such as bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses. One detailed system is completely surgically implantable in the patient such that no part of the system is external to the patient while the system is in use. In addition, externally controlled devices are provided which allow for modulation of implanted components.

Abstract: A user device and a breath analysis device (or other types of portable devices) use a pairing and communication protocol that address user convenience and connectivity issues. For example, a breath analysis device is associated with a unique identifier and the unique identifier is associated with an account corresponding to the user. Likewise, a user device is associated with a user device identifier and the user device identifier is associated with the account corresponding to the user. The breath analysis device and the user device can use at least one of the identifiers to determine whether the user device is authorized to pair with the breath analysis device, and vice-versa. If authorized, the breath analysis device and user device can pair with one another. Once paired, the user device may wirelessly communicate with the breath analysis device for various purposes, such as to retrieve and display breath analysis test results.

Abstract: A system for pulmonary elastography includes an ultrasound probe (120) configured to evaluate tissue of a target area by transmitting a signal and receiving a response. A contact device (126) is coupled to the ultrasound probe to provide contact between the ultrasound probe and the tissue. An image processing module (110) is configured to output one or more elastograms according to the response.

Abstract: A monitoring device suitable for attachment to a surface of a subject, the device having a data collector and a processor. The data collector includes a flexible foil attached to a less flexible socket, where the foil forms a dermal side surface of the data collector for adhesion to a skin surface of a subject to be monitored. To enable communication of electrical signals between the data collector and the processor, the data collector includes a distribution structure formed as a pattern of an electrically conductive material on an outer surface of a foldable sheet. The foldable sheet forms a layer in the flexible foil and having an interface portion which is folded into an aperture in the socket to form a coupling inside the cavity for electrical communication with a matching coupling of the processor when the processor is received in the cavity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly comprising an elastic semi-conductive or conductive track and a flexible conductive support base arranged on a fabric. The present invention also relates to the use of a silicone rubber and/or fluorosilicone rubber loaded with an electrically conductive material for the preparation of the semi-conductive or conductive track, as well as to the use of a conductive fabric, that comprises conductive fibers for the preparation of the conductive support base. It further relates to a sensor comprising the assembly, wherein one of the flexible conductive support bases there is arranged a rigid electrical component, and the non-contact area of the other flexible conductive support base is adapted to be used as an electrode, wherein the electrode is characterized in that the conductive layer comprises a plurality of orifices filled with a silicone rubber and/or fluorosilicone rubber throughout the conductive area.

Abstract: A system includes a microprocessor executable verification module in a base unit and a microprocessor readable identifier of an endovascular device in a memory of the endovascular device. The microprocessor executable verification module, based on the identifier, at least one of configures the endovascular device for use and determines whether the endovascular device can be enabled for use.

Abstract: An atraumatic detection/stimulation lead is disclosed. The lead includes at least one microcable having a core cable comprising a plurality of elementary metal strands. One of the microcables has provided at its distal end an atraumatic protection device. The atraumatic protection device includes a protective coating on the distal ends of the elementary strands of the microcable, and the protective coating is covered by a protective cap of deformable material. The protective cap may be a conical distal end adapted to deform and axially flatten out. The microcable may have an overall diameter less than or equal to 1.5 French (0.50 mm).

Abstract: Example paper substrate diagnostic apparatus and related methods and systems are disclosed herein. An example apparatus includes a hydrophobic substrate having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The apparatus includes a detection zone on a first surface of the substrate, the detection zone defining an area to sense an analyte in a sample, the detection zone comprising a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the first surface of the substrate and a layer of hydrophilic ink disposed on the two electrodes and an area between the first and second electrodes. The apparatus also includes a channel comprising hydrophilic ink disposed on the first surface of the substrate, the channel having an inlet section adjacent the first end of the substrate, a middle section, and an outlet section in contact with the layer of hydrophilic ink. The channel is to transfer a fluid sample from the inlet section to the layer of hydrophilic ink.

Abstract: It is recognized that, because of its unique properties, graphene can serve as an interface with biological cells that communicate by an electrical impulse, or action potential. Responding to a sensed signal can be accomplished by coupling a graphene sensor to a low power digital electronic switch that is activatable by the sensed low power electrical signals. It is further recognized that low power devices such as tunneling diodes and TFETs are suitable for use in such biological applications in conjunction with graphene sensors. While tunneling diodes can be used in diagnostic applications, TFETs, which are three-terminal devices, further permit controlling the voltage on one cell according to signals received by other cells. Thus, by the use of a biological sensor system that includes graphene nanowire sensors coupled to a TFET, charge can be redistributed among different biological cells, potentially with therapeutic effects.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally (in the midline) on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline (or immediately to either side of the sternum) benefits extended wear by removing the requirement that ECG electrodes be continually placed in the same spots on the skin throughout the monitoring period. Instead, the patient can place an electrode patch anywhere within the general region of the sternum. Power is provided through a battery provided on the electrode patch, which avoids having to open the monitor recorder's housing for battery replacement.

Abstract: A neural interface array including an optical waveguide, a thin film electrode array associated with the optical waveguide, the thin film electrode array having a plurality of electrodes, and a fluid delivery channel attached to at least one of the optical waveguide and the thin film electrode array. Also disclosed are methods for optical stimulation and a neural interface system with active fluid delivery.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for performing a mapping procedure on body tissue are disclosed. An example mapping device for mapping a tissue surface includes an elongate shaft and an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes a plurality of splines and a plurality of electrodes disposed on at least some of the splines. The electrode assembly is capable of moving between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, the electrode assembly may have a generally planar structure.

Abstract: A neurostimulation system is disclosed herein. The neurostimulation system includes an implantable pulse generator and an implantable therapy lead configured to be electrically coupled to the implantable pulse generator. The implantable therapy lead includes a flexible paddle electrode array with flexible electrodes. Each flexible electrode has a segmented configuration having first and second electrode segments and a flexible bridge or living hinge joining together the first and second electrode segments.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally (in the midline) on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline (or immediately to either side of the sternum) benefits extended wear by removing the requirement that ECG electrodes be continually placed in the same spots on the skin throughout the monitoring period. Instead, the patient can place an electrode patch anywhere within the general region of the sternum. Ensuring that the quality level of ECG recording remains constant over an extended period of time is provided through self-authentication of electrode patches. The monitor recorder implements a challenge response scheme upon being connected to an electrode patch. Failing self-authentication, the monitor recorder signals an error condition.

Abstract: There is disclosed a system of electrodes used for transdermal conduction of electrical signals and a method of use thereof, the system comprising a plurality of electrode parts connected by means of electrical conductors to electric impedance tomography apparatuses, as well as other devices, the parts being secured to an outer side of a flexible and porous blade coated on both sides thereof by layers of electrically conductive and adhesive materials, such electrically conductive and adhesive materials being in mutual contact through the pores of the blade, the inner face of the latter being removably secured, by means of adhesion, to the patient. The invention comprises means for positioning the electrode parts, as well as means for external protection thereof and of their respective conductors.