Abstract: An example method for detecting stability of a medical implant is provided. The method includes (a) applying a force to the medical implant with a probe, (b) based on the applied force, determining a response signal associated with a vibration of the medical implant, (c) comparing the determined response signal with a computer model of the medical implant, and (d) based on the comparison, determining an angular stiffness coefficient of the medical implant, wherein the angular stiffness coefficient indicates a stability of the medical implant.

Abstract: Method and processor for time-domain processing of a waveform signal are disclosed. The method includes filtering, by employing one or more cut-off frequency values, the waveform signal for generating the first portion and the second portion, acquiring a frequency shift value, generating a modulated signal having a first frequency portion and a second frequency portion and where the one or more cut-off frequency values have been determined for ensuring that the first frequency portion and the second frequency portion are non-overlapping portions of the modulated signal, and generating the modified signal using the first frequency portion.

Abstract: An implant installation strength evaluation method includes a step of vibrating an implant, a step of measuring time series data of the number of vibrations and vibration strengths of the implant vibrated in the vibrating step, and a step of deriving information indicating an index of an installation strength of the implant based on the time series data of the number of vibrations and vibration strengths of the implant.

Abstract: A vibrotactile stimulation device intended to be applied against a body environment (MC) to be stimulated and having a vibrating effector suitable for applying, to the environment, pulses of mechanical vibrational energy, and a controller controlling the effector according to stimulation rules. The device further includes vibration detector suitable for being exposed to the body environment in order to receive a part of the vibrational energy transmitted to the environment during the application of the pulses of vibrational energy, and determine a transmission characteristic of the vibrational energy between the effector and the environment to be stimulated, the vibration detector being linked to the controller. An application to improving the efficacy of body stimulation in combating sleep apnea is also disclosed.

Abstract: An operation detection device includes an operation target that accepts contact operation, an operation detection unit that detects contact operation on the operation target as a voltage, a detection unit that detects a frequency of a change in the voltage; and a determination unit that determines a mode of operation of a living body performed on the operation target based on the frequency detected by the detection unit.

Abstract: [Solving Means] A tactile sense presentation apparatus includes a movable body, an actuator unit, and a signal generation unit. The actuator unit is connected to the movable body. The signal generation unit is configured to supply a driving signal to the actuator unit, the driving signal generating a vibration on the actuator unit, the vibration having within a period at least one of a plurality of different amplitudes and a plurality of different frequencies.

Abstract: A system may include a tactile actuator for providing tactile feedback and a resonant phase sensing system. The resonant phase sensing system may include a resistive-inductive-capacitive sensor and a measurement circuit communicatively coupled to the resistive-inductive-capacitive sensor and the tactile actuator. The resistive-inductive-capacitive sensor may be configured to measure phase information associated with the resistive-inductive-capacitive sensor, based on the phase information, detect an indication of human interaction with the system proximate to the resistive-inductive-capacitive sensor, and trigger the tactile actuator to generate tactile feedback responsive to detecting the indication of human interaction.

Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and storage medium associated with capturing images are described herein. In embodiments, an apparatus may include an image or video capturing application to capture one or more images using a camera worn on a user's head, that includes an orientation function to receive a collection of a plurality of sensor data, and process the collection of sensor data to determine desired and actual orientations of the camera, and a control function to control the camera, to delay or suspend activation of the camera, if the actual orientation is misaligned with the desired orientations of the camera in excess of a misalignment threshold. In embodiments, the one or more images may be part of a time series of images or videos. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.

Abstract: A method of performing real ear measurements by a measuring system is described herein. The measuring system comprises a probe element adapted to be inserted in the ear canal of an individual; a loudspeaker configured to deliver a sample sound signal to the ear canal; at least one microphone configured to detect a response to the sample sound signal, wherein the probe element is in acoustic communication with the loudspeaker and cooperates with the at least one microphone; and a signal processing unit for performing an acoustic measurement of a response to the sample sound signal, based on an electrical input signal from the microphone.

Abstract: A device and method for sensory training and assessment are provided. The device includes a plurality of haptic drivers connected to a processing circuitry, wherein the plurality of haptic drivers are configured be secured to a body of a user to create vibrotactile stimuli; a feedback interface configured to receive feedback from the user in response to the vibrotactile stimuli; and a memory configured to store therein a sensory training program, wherein the sensory training program includes instructions for the haptic drivers to create the vibrotactile stimuli based on a selected sensory training program.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods of identifying a loosened joint implant by analyzing acoustic emissions from the implant. The present disclosure further provides apparatuses for measuring acoustic data and analyzing acoustic emissions from a joint implant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for monitoring the brain's sub-cognitive activity through otoacoustic emissions. More specifically, the present invention deals with a method and device for monitoring the brain's functions that are manifested by sub-cognitive activities. The sub cognitive activities are monitored by matching to the spectrograms of a standard evoked oto-acoustic emissions signals to monitor mismatches as indicators of normal or malfunctioning sub cognitive neurological functions. The invention relates also to a device for monitoring the brain's sub-cognitive activity through otoacoustic emissions. More specifically, the present invention deals with a method and device for monitoring the brain's functions that are manifested by sub-cognitive activities. The sub cognitive activities are monitored by matching to the spectrograms of a standard evoked oto-acoustic emissions signals to monitor mismatches as indicators of normal or malfunctioning sub cognitive neurological functions.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method of forming a localized vibration field are provided. The apparatus includes: a plate; a plurality of exciters disposed at a plurality of locations in neighborhood of circumference of the plate and configured to excite the plate; and a driving controller configured to vibrate the plurality of exciters by using a substantially same excitation frequency, wherein the plurality of exciters excite a local region of the plate and suppress vibrations of a rest of regions except the local region of the plate.

Abstract: A neuromuscular plasticity apparatus is utilized to exercise a stretch reflex circuit which can reduce tremors and improve balance. The apparatus drives a user's extremity at a frequency to emulate the tremor. An apparatus includes a user interface that may be driven in a rotational and/or linear motion by an electric motor. The user interface may rotate about a rotational axis by a coupler bit that is interchangeable to change the offset distance. The motion may be set to substantially the same as the tremor frequency. A user engages with the user interface to drive an extremity, such as an arm, leg or head to reduce the severity of the tremor and/or improve balance. Muscle tone is improved and tremor is suppressed for a protracted period. The apparatus may be used to exercise and improve balance reflex circuits, the principle difference being the sensory neurons that are stimulated.

Abstract: Systems and methods for determining a Material's (“MTL”) mechanical properties. The methods comprise: coupling a first end of MTL to a First Mechanical Mechanism (“FMM”) movable in a First Direction (“FD”) and coupling a second end of MTL to a Second Mechanical Mechanism (“SMM”) movable in a Second Direction (“SD”); applying a first Pulling Force (“PF”) to MTL; applying an Oscillating Force (“OF”) to MTL; applying a second PF to MTL so as to cause any undulations in MTL to be removed and to cause a loading of fibers or polymeric units that support MTL; allowing MTL to oscillate through a series of cycles of loading and unloading; measuring a strain/stress on MTL as a function of time; determining a natural frequency of MTL based on the strain/stress; and determining an elastic modulus of MTL using the natural frequency.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for assessing thermoalgesic and vibratory sensitivity, including a first unit (1) configured to apply, to localized points of the patient, a plurality of stimuli comprising vibrations and temperature changes, a second unit (2) for gathering data communicating with the first unit, wherein the communication between the first unit (1) and the second unit (2) takes place by means of a two-way wireless transmission means. The invention also relates to a method for assessing vibratory, thermal and thermoalgesic sensitivity using the device according to the invention.

Abstract: A system for ablating tissue includes an ablation catheter for insertion into the body of a patient and a robotic controller for moving the catheter within the body. The robotic controller advances the catheter until the catheter contacts the tissue surface, maintains contact between the catheter and the tissue surface, and moves the catheter along a predetermined path to create a substantially continuous lesion of ablated tissue. A display device may be used to present a graphical representation of an area of tissue to be ablated. A user interface permits selection of a plurality of treatment points on the graphical representation. The interface is preferably coupled to the controller and catheter such that the controller may cause the catheter to automatically ablate tissue at and between the plurality of treatment points in response to the received user input.

Abstract: In a system and method of determining regularity associated with a rhythm disorder of a heart, a derivative of a first cardiac signal at a plurality of first time points is processed against a derivative of a second cardiac signal at a plurality of second time points to define a plurality of coordinate pairs of the first cardiac signal against the second cardiac signal. Thereafter, an index of regularity that exceeds a threshold is determined. The index of regularity indicates an approximate congruence of the plurality of coordinate pairs among the first cardiac signal and the second cardiac signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated method of determining a kinetic state of a person. The method obtains accelerometer data from an accelerometer worn on an extremity of the person and processes the accelerometer data to determine a measure for the kinetic state. The present invention further relates to a device for determining a kinetic state of a person. The device comprises a processor configured to process data obtained from an accelerometer worn on an extremity of the person and to determine from the data a measure for the kinetic state. In the method and system the kinetic state is at least one of bradykinesia, dyskinesia, and hyperkinesia.

Abstract: A method of analyzing performance of frequency lowering hearing aids. The method includes generating a sequentially of noise signals and transmitting acoustical sounds from a sound output device in response to the sequence of noise signals. A sound input device records the acoustical sounds and saves as a first device data. The sound input device with a frequency lowering hearing aid records the acoustical sounds and save as a second device data. The second device data is compared to the first device data and, in response to the comparison, at least one function of the frequency lowering hearing aid is optionally adjusted.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a system for performing objective examination of central sensitization, in particular, a system for objectively determining the presence or absence of central sensitization in a chronic pain patient. The present invention provides a device for diagnosing the presence or absence of central sensitization, the device including: stimulation output means for outputting thermal stimulation which can be perceived by a subject; first input means capable of inputting a measurement start signal; second input means capable of inputting a measurement end signal; and measurement control means for measuring time between an input signal from the first input means and an input signal from the second input means.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for sensing and assessing a patients responses to tests using a device that may include tactile input, voice input, still image analysis, and responses to visual and auditory stimuli. In one example, a method includes obtaining interactive clinical assessment data using a remote client device and a computer-based control device, the method including providing on a display of a remote client device one or more test prompts for conducting an interactive clinical assessment, each displayed test prompt instructing a user to perform an action using the remote client device in response to the test prompt, and providing on the display of the remote client device one or more potential responses of actions that may be performed in response to the test prompt.

Abstract: A system for supplying energy to an implantable medical device when implanted in a patient's body can comprise an internal charger arranged to be implanted in the patient's body, the internal charger comprising a first coil. The system can further comprise an external charger arranged to wirelessly transmit energy to supply power to the internal charger, using a second coil. The system also comprises a wireless feedback system arranged to transmit feedback information from the internal charger to the external charger. The feedback information is based on information from at least one Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) transmitter. Hereby a user of the system can optimize the position of the external power supply in relation to the internal power supply based on the received feedback information. This in turn will result in a better and more robust energy transfer to the implanted medical device.

Abstract: A system for managing a plurality of wearable devices on a user receives information to be conveyed using haptic effects and determines an intent of the information. The system then determines, for each of the plurality of wearable haptic devices, a location of the wearable haptic device on the user and a haptic capability. The system then maps the information as a haptic effect to one or more of the wearable haptic devices based at least on the determined locations on the user and the haptic capabilities.

Abstract: In a system and method of determining regularity associated with a rhythm disorder of a heart, a derivative of a first cardiac signal at a plurality of first time points is processed against a derivative of a second cardiac signal at a plurality of second time points to define a plurality of coordinate pairs of the first cardiac signal against the second cardiac signal. Thereafter, an index of regularity that exceeds a threshold is determined. The index of regularity indicates an approximate congruence of the plurality of coordinate pairs among the first cardiac signal and the second cardiac signal.

Abstract: A computer-controlled sensory testing system is disclosed that can be used to further pain research and aid in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of pain syndromes. The system includes actuators to deliver pressure/deformation (strain), auditory, olfactory, and other stimuli to a subject. The system includes software to control the delivery of the stimuli. The system is further operable to receive feedback regarding the stimuli received.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for sensing and assessing a patients responses to tests using a device that may include tactile input, voice input, still image analysis, and responses to visual and auditory stimuli. In one example, a method includes obtaining interactive clinical assessment data using a remote client device and a computer-based control device, the method including providing on a display of a remote client device one or more test prompts for conducting an interactive clinical assessment, each displayed test prompt instructing a user to perform an action using the remote client device in response to the test prompt, and providing on the display of the remote client device one or more potential responses of actions that may be performed in response to the test prompt.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus provide for an adjustable pointing device. The adjustable pointing device includes a base and an adjustable arm connecting a portion of the base with an input control portion. The input control portion includes at least one input control. A first end of the adjustable arm, which is distal from the base, allows for and independently maintains changes to various orientations of the input control portion. In other words, after the user adjusts the input control portion to be set at a new orientation, the first end of the adjustable arm maintains the input control portion at the new orientation as the user interacts with the adjustable pointing device. In addition, a second end of the adjustable arm, proximal to the base, also allows for and independently maintains changes in a distance between the input control portion and the base itself.

Abstract: A biological measurement apparatus of this invention includes (i) a micro piezoelectric element for vibrating a nerve cell of a subject without coming in contact with the nerve cell, (ii) an electromagnetic wave antenna for receiving an electromagnetic wave generated by the nerve cell vibrated by the micro piezoelectric element, and (iii) a computer for measuring an electric charge of the nerve cell based on the electromagnetic wave received by the electromagnetic wave antenna. Further, this biological measurement apparatus includes an electromagnetic wave antenna for emitting an electromagnetic wave to a nerve cell. This configuration provides an apparatus capable of measuring an electrical activity of a nerve cell in a living organism in real time and three-dimensionally at a spatial resolution of a nerve cell size. Moreover, this configuration provides an apparatus capable of individually giving electrical stimulations to any desired cells in the subject.

Abstract: The present invention teaches a system for the automated palpation testing of a patient, including the use of a robotic device with a actuating element thereto. The system is useful for testing patients at risk of nerve degradation, such as diabetic sufferers. The system includes a controller for programming the robotic device to administer the test in a particular pattern, and a storage medium for storing the results of the test. The system allows a more accurate determination of the stage of nerve degradation, as well as being more standardized because of the inclusion of automation technology.

Abstract: An apparatus (2) for use in diagnosing and/or treating a neurological disorder is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a sensor device (4) designed to resemble a pen to provide a first signal containing first data representing a force applied by at least one finger of the subject, an integrated writable surface (10) to (i) provide at least one second signal containing second data representing a position of the sensor device (4) relative to the writable surface (10) and/or (ii) provide at least one third signal containing third data representing an engaging force of the sensor device on the writable surface, and a camera (20) to provide at least one fourth signal containing fourth data representing a position of at least one part of an arm of the subject holding the sensor device (4).

Abstract: A portable diagnostic instrument for use by medical professionals. The portable diagnostic instrument can comprise a control unit that can constantly maintain the frequency of sound or vibration produced by the device, even when battery power is reduced. The control unit can also comprise a warning unit to provide information about remaining battery life to the user. Furthermore, the portable diagnostic instrument can comprise a unit capable of producing vibration, a unit capable of producing sound at differing frequencies, and a unit capable of producing temperatures at differing temperatures. The device can produce both the sound, vibration, and temperature at the same time or each can be operated individually. Moreover, the device is capable of being attached to other medical equipment that is carried by a medical professional or can be easily kept in a pocket, so that it is readily available when needed.

Abstract: A portable diagnostic instrument for use by medical professionals. The portable diagnostic instrument can comprise a control unit that can maintain the frequency of sound or vibration produced by the device constant, even when battery power is reduced. The control unit can also comprise a warning unit to provide information about remaining battery life to the user. Furthermore, the portable diagnostic instrument can comprise a unit capable of producing vibration and a unit capable of producing sound at differing frequencies. The device can produce both the sound and vibration at the same time or each can be operated individually. Moreover, the device is capable of being attached to other medical equipment that is carried by a medical professional or can be easily kept in a pocket, so that it is readily available when needed.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for measuring muscle reflexes (e.g., a bulbocavernosus reflex) as a tool for identifying/diagnosing dysfunctions (e.g., spinal cord abnormalities, bladder voiding dysfunction, and sexual organ dysfunction) non-invasively by using mechanical stimulation. The system and method includes a probe having a predetermined patient contacting portion, wherein when the contacting portion is moved into contact with a particular area of the patient (e.g., the patient's genitals), the contact induces a muscle reflex. The probe detects the pressure resulting from the contacting portion being abruptly and forcibly brought into contact with the particular area. Such detection is used to electronically initiate capture of electrical responses from a plurality of electrodes placed on the patient's skin in proximity to the particular area. Such electrical responses are processed to determine characteristics of the patient's reflexes of one or more muscles adjacent to the electrodes.

Abstract: The information relating to physical and/or biomedical parameters of a person carrying out, in real conditions, an activity distinguished by high mechanical stresses is detected by sensors (10, 12, 16, 18, 20, 22, 30) which are mounted on, or form part of, a garment worn while carrying out said activity. During all the stages of said activity this information is converted into data in digital format which are stored in an electronic recording device (100) or “data logger”. Advantages: the stored data may be used by other persons also far from the location where the activity is being performed and/or at a later time.

Abstract: An imaging system induces an increased visibility of the fluid-containing ducts of the breast to enhance the imaging of the ducts, to improve differentiation of the ducts from the surrounding tissue and to detect lesions present within the duct. The imaging system includes a noninvasive fluid visibility increasing module configured for increasing the visibility of a fluid contained within one or more ducts of the breast and an increased fluid visibility detector configured for detecting the one or more ducts having increased fluid visibility to identify the one or more ducts within the ductal system of the breast. The imaging system further includes an image processor capable of rendering a three-dimensional map of the ductal system of the breast.

Abstract: A sound treatment system includes an audio system for transmitting tones of predetermined frequencies through a plurality of outputs. A sound transmitting device is electrically connectable to one or more of the outputs, and includes a speaker for transmitting the tones received. The speaker is adjacent to crystal which is vibrationally responsive to the tones. A method of using the system includes generating tonal segments of predetermined duration, modulating the frequencies, and compiling these into an audio program. One or more sound transmitting devices are placed on desired locations of the body, and their inputs connected to corresponding outputs of the audio system. The generating step includes compiling selected predetermined frequencies into an audio program to generate the tonal segments, as well as modulating tones of one or more desired frequencies to generate the tonal segments.

Abstract: A method for measuring vibration transmittance of a sternum noninvasively includes producing vibration, transmitting the vibration to a first side the sternum through skin and soft tissues, obtaining response data of the sternum from a second side of the sternum through skin and soft tissues, which first and second sides of the sternum are on different sides of the midline of the sternum, and processing said response data for determining transmittance of vibration of the sternum. The response data may be used for defining state of a patient such as sternal instability of the breastbone or abnormal healing in the sternum after open chest surgery by surgeons.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are adapted for characterizing human tissue type. A plurality of inflatable bladders enable the application of kinetic energy to the human tissue. Collected data responsive to the applied kinetic energy differentiates between different tissue types and patient loading. The data can be routed via a network to a remote location.

Abstract: A digital tuning fork device for administering a vibratory sensation test to a human subject comprising an integrated vibratory mechanism and timer, with the vibratory mechanism generating vibrations having a known frequency and amplitude, with the amplitude of the vibrations degrading over time to replicate in a controlled manner the natural degradation of vibrations generated by a mechanical tuning fork, and a method of use thereof. Alternatively, the amplitude of the vibrations may be initially very small and then increase over time in a controlled manner to test first perception of feeling.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems for characterizing changes in at least one physical property of soft tissue. A series of acoustic pulses is generated and directed into the soft tissue such that at least one of the pulses is of sufficiently high intensity to induce physical displacement of the tissue. Waves reflected off the tissue, or a flexible member that moves with the tissue, are received and measured to estimate at least one characteristic of the physical displacement induced thereby. Repetition of the generating, receiving and estimating steps provides characterization of the at least one physical property over time. Methods, apparatus and systems for characterizing at least one physical property of blood, by generating a series of acoustic pulses and directing the series of pulses into the blood such that at least one of the pulses is of sufficiently high intensity to induce physical displacement of the blood.

Abstract: A digital tuning fork device for administering a vibratory sensation test to a human subject comprising an integrated vibratory mechanism and timer, with the vibratory mechanism generating vibrations having a known frequency and amplitude, with the amplitude of the vibrations degrading over time to replicate in a controlled manner the natural degradation of vibrations generated by a mechanical tuning fork, and a method of use thereof. Alternatively, the amplitude of the vibrations may be initially very small and then increase over time in a controlled manner to test first perception of feeling.

Abstract: A method is described for surgical implantation of a cochlear implant system. An intraoperative baseline value stapedial reflex response is determined for a cochlear implant patient. Then while performing a given step in a multi-step surgical process to implant a cochlear implant system in the patient, the stapedial reflex response is monitored, and if the stapedial reflex response changes from the baseline value response more than a safe change threshold value, the given step is stopped.

Abstract: An enhanced system and process for assessment of cortical integrity is disclosed. The system permit detection of cortical disruption through identification of at least one of frequency shifts and significantly reduced vibration transmission in injured versus non-injured bones. Radiography and concomitant exposure to the same is reduced along with risks and costs of the same.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hand-held, noninvasive diagnostic device for measuring the electric fields in mammalian skin and other epithelial structures. The device includes an outer housing that contacts the skin, providing stability and allowing the device to move along with minor movement of the skin. Recessed within the outer housing is a probe that acts as a sensor to measure the electric field in the skin through an aperture in the bottom surface of the outer housing. By applying a series of known voltages while the probe is vibrating, the skin's local surface potential can be measured and the lateral electric field can be calculated from the spatial distribution of surface potential measurements. Active feedback is used to maintain a constant distance between the probe and the skin surface.

Abstract: An improved digital tuning fork device for administering a vibratory sensation test to a human subject comprising an integrated vibratory mechanism and timer, with the vibratory mechanism generating vibrations having a known frequency and amplitude, with the amplitude of the vibrations degrading over time to replicate in a controlled manner the natural degradation of vibrations generated by a mechanical tuning fork, and a method of use thereof.

Abstract: Methods and systems for identifying and spatially localizing tissues having certain physiological properties or producing certain biological responses, such as the sensation of pain, in response to the application of intense focused ultrasound (acoustic probing or palpation) are provided. In some embodiments, targeted acoustic probing is employed to identify the scope and severity of chronically painful sensitized tissue areas, and of chronic pain disorders. In other applications, targeted acoustic probing is used to localize nerves and other sensitized tissues for guidance of needles and other delivery devices, and for delivery of anesthetic, analgesic or therapeutic compositions.

Abstract: A neuropathy diagnostic device includes a body having a neutral temperature surface disposed on an exterior of the body, a variable temperature surface disposed on the exterior of the body, and a vibrating surface having a variable vibration amplitude. The vibrating surface extends outwardly from the body. A touch sensor extends outwardly from the body. A processor is disposed within the body. The processor is adapted to set a temperature of the neutral temperature surface, vary a temperature of the variable temperature surface, and vary the vibration amplitude of the vibrating surface.

Abstract: A method, including measuring a force exerted by a probe on tissue of a patient and measuring a displacement of the probe while measuring the force. The method further includes detecting a tenting of the tissue responsively to a relation between the measured force and the measured displacement.

Abstract: A device and methods for treating a subject with dysphagia or other neurological disease, neurological disorder, neurological injury, neurological impairment or neurodegenerative disease that affects voluntary motor control of the hyoid, pharynx, larynx, or oropharyngeal area is disclosed. A device of the invention generally comprises a vibrotactile stimulator for applying at least one stimulus to the outside surface of a subject's neck; a connector for attaching the vibrotactile stimulator to an outside surface of the subject's neck, and a switch control communicatively connected to the vibrotactile stimulator to selectively engage a manual stimulation module and/or automatic stimulation module. Stimulation of an outside surface of the throat area of a subject by a device of the invention stimulates a swallowing reflex in the subject.