Abstract: The present invention provides, among other things, a site specific way to enhance a natural hormonal response to nutrients entering the small intestine after gastric emptying, thereby providing therapeutic value for obesity or diabetic patients. In one aspect, the present invention provides methods of stimulating the release of satiety hormone in a subject comprising applying a first electrical stimulus to a tissue in the lumen of the gastrointestinal system of the subject contemporaneously with the contacting of L-cells of the tissue with a nutrient stimulus.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a system and method for detecting a response of a patient to an external stimulus. An exemplary method comprises the acts of generating at least one time series of at least one physiologic parameter, detecting the external stimulus, detecting at least one response associated with the stimulus, the response comprising at least one of a pattern and a value, and outputting an indication of the response.

Abstract: The disclosure describes a process for non-invasively screening a patient to select a stimulation site for treatment of head, neck or facial pain and tension symptoms caused by disorders such as occipital neuralgia. The screening process involves application of a transcutaneous stimulation screening device, a percutaneous micro-electrode screening device, and a temporary implantable screening device to the patient to select a site for chronic implantation.

Abstract: The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing percutaneous pedicle integrity assessments involving the use of neurophysiology.

Abstract: A method of determining the sympathetic tone and/or level of stress and/or level or warning system sensitivity includes the steps of: measuring an applied stimulation at a threshold value of the stimulation in one or more sympathetic tone-neutral points and measuring an applied stimulation at the same threshold value in one or more sympathetic tone-dependent points. The invention further relates to a system for applying and measuring a stimulation, and the use of a system for applying and measuring a stimulation for determining the sympathetic tone including the steps of: measuring an applied stimulation at a threshold value of the stimulation at one or more sympathetic tone-neutral points and measuring an applied stimulation at the same threshold value of the stimulation at one or more sympathetic tone-dependent points.

Abstract: The present intention involves systems and related methods for performing dynamic pedicle integrity assessments involving the use of neurophysiology.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the response of a nervous system of a body to a stimulus. The method comprises collecting a set of voltage measurements between selected areas on a surface of the body whilst current is being passed between selected regions of the surface of the body. The set of voltage measurements is collected over a predetermined measurement period, the predetermined measurement period is based upon a time after application of the stimulus, and the collected voltage measurements are compared with reference measurements to determine normal or abnormal response of the nervous system.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems for analysis of electromagnetic activity of prefrontal cortex neurons in subjects are provided. The methods, apparatuses, and systems of the present invention can be used as a means to screen for cognitive modulators. They can be used to predict the effects of compounds such as psychostimulants and other drugs on prefrontal cortex-dependent cognition.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting physiological function, for example, nerve conduction, is described. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a housing including a stimulator shaped to fit a first anatomical site and a detector shaped to fit a second anatomical site. The housing automatically positions the detector substantially adjacent to the second anatomical site when the stimulator is positioned substantially adjacent to the first anatomical site. The detector contains a plurality of individual detection elements, whereby the response evoked by stimulation at the first anatomical site is measured using one or more of these detection elements at the second anatomical location.

Abstract: A method for localizing a needle to a nerve, the method comprising: using the needle to electrically stimulate the nerve, with a known current intensity, so as to evoke a nerve response; detecting the nerve response; analyzing the detected nerve response so as to identify at least one attribute of the same; and confirming that the needle is in the immediate proximity of the nerve based upon known current intensity and at least one identified attribute of the detected nerve response.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to nanobioelectronics and, in some cases, to circuits comprising nanoelectronic elements, such as nanotubes and/or nanowires, and biological components, such as neurons. In one aspect, cells, such as neurons, are positioned in electrical communication with one or more nanoscale wires. The nanoscale wires may be used to stimulate the cells, and/or determine an electrical condition of the cells. More than one nanoscale wire may be positioned in electrical communication with the cell, for example, in distinct regions of the cell. However, the nanoscale wires may be positioned such that they are relatively close together, for example, spaced apart by no more than about 200 nm. The nanoscale wires may be disposed on a substrate, for example, between electrodes, and the cells may be adhered to the substrate, for example, using cell adhesion factors such as polylysine.

Abstract: This invention provides an EEG-based method of determining whether a test subject is a specific individual.

Abstract: A method for evaluating an effect of a psychotropic compound or a treatment on a neuronal activity of an animal including determining a change in the amount of information generated by neurons in response to at least one repeatedly applied stimulus, wherein the change is caused by administering the psychotropic compound or a treatment. Also provided is a method of screening psychotropic compounds for effectiveness on an animal which involves using a change in sensory discrimination in a population of neurons of the animal, wherein the sensory discrimination is obtained in response to one or more stimuli repeatedly applied to the animal and wherein a change in the sensory discrimination occurs due to administering said psychotropic compounds to the animal.

Abstract: A method of locating the position of a selected neural centre in the central nervous system of an animal is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of (a) stimulating neurons at a first central nervous system position; (b) measuring the field potential evoked at a second central nervous system position; and (c) comparing the evoked field potential against a known evoked field potential from the neural centre.

Abstract: A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site.

Abstract: A method in which a probe is advanced between a neural tissue structure and a non-neural tissue structure such as the intervertebral foramen. The probe includes electrodes on opposite surfaces. Threshold currents required to stimulate action potentials for each electrode are determined. A ratio of the threshold currents are calculated. Tissue is removed from the non-neural tissue structure when the ratio is greater than a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: The present invention involves systems and methods for determining nerve proximity, nerve direction, and pathology relative to a surgical instrument based on an identified relationship between neuromuscular responses and the stimulation signal that caused the neuromuscular responses.

Abstract: An autonomic nerve activity measuring apparatus includes: a pulse wave acquiring unit, configured to acquire at least two pulse wave signals from a living body; an electric stimulation unit, configured to apply electric stimulation to the living body; a comparison unit, configured to compare the pulse wave signals acquired by the pulse wave acquiring unit; and an analysis unit, configured to analyze comparison result provided by the comparison unit.

Abstract: The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an algorithm aimed at neurophysiology monitoring, and more particularly to an algorithm capable of quickly finding stimulation thresholds over multiple channels of a neurophysiology monitoring system.

Abstract: An electric diagnostic tape measure used to measure the electrical conduction of a peripheral nerve using a standard electrical nerve stimulator. The tape measure includes a flexible, elongated body with an active recording electrode mounted or attached to its distal end. Formed on the lower surface of the active recording electrode is a conductive, adhesive layer that temporarily holds the electrode on the patient's skin during a test. Located on the top surface of the elongated body is a distance-measuring index. During a test, the elongated body is aligned so that the end of the distance-measuring index is aligned and registered with the active recording electrode. By moving the nerve stimulator to different locations adjacent to the skin adjacent to the elongated body, the distance of the nerve being tested may be measured. In one embodiment, a wire extends through the elongated body.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for selective surgical removal of tissue. In one variation, tissue may be ablated, resected, removed, or otherwise remodeled by standard small endoscopic tools delivered into the epidural space through an epidural needle. The sharp tip of the needle in the epidural space, can be converted to a blunt tipped instrument for further safe advancement. The current invention includes specific tools that enable safe tissue modification in the epidural space, including a barrier that separates the area where tissue modification will take place from adjacent vulnerable neural and vascular structures. A nerve stimulator may be provided to reduce a risk of inadvertent neural abrasion.

Abstract: An external indicator device presents parameters associated with stimulation therapy generated by a pulse generator, which may be associated with an external or implantable stimulation device. In this manner, the external indicator device enables a user to visualize stimulation parameters without actually delivering stimulation therapy to a patient via implanted electrodes. The electrical stimulation parameters may include electrical amplitude levels, pulse widths, pulse rates, electrode combinations, and electrode polarities for stimulation generated by the pulse generator.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in nerve conduction testing where a stimulating electrode is used to electrically stimulate a nerve and a detection electrode is used to detect an evoked neurological response, the apparatus comprising: a shaped protrusion for positioning against an electrode; and a compression mechanism for applying a force to the shaped protrusion so as to cause the shaped protrusion to press the electrode against the underlying tissue and compress the same, so as to move the electrode closer to the nerve and thereby augment nerve stimulation and response detection.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for selective surgical removal of tissue. In one variation, tissue may be ablated, resected, removed, or otherwise remodeled by standard small endoscopic tools delivered into the epidural space through an epidural needle. The sharp tip of the needle in the epidural space, can be converted to a blunt tipped instrument for further safe advancement. The current invention includes specific tools that enable safe tissue modification in the epidural space, including a barrier that separates the area where tissue modification will take place from adjacent vulnerable neural and vascular structures. A nerve stimulator may be provided to reduce a risk of inadvertent neural abrasion.

Abstract: The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system.

Abstract: Modular electronic and/or combined electronic/mechanical apparatus for the detection, analysis, transmittal and delivery of tactile stimuli (touch). Sexual application is suggested.

Abstract: Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is employed to examine the neuronal activity and vascular response of a peripheral nerve for research or clinical purposes. An embodiment for implementing this approach has: a nerve stimulator; a tissue spectrometer; a stimulation probe adapted to apply a stimulation from the nerve stimulator to a peripheral nerve; at least one illumination optical fiber, where each illumination optical fiber is adapted to transmit a near-infrared source light to the peripheral nerve after the stimulation is applied; and a detection optical fiber adapted to collect and deliver to the tissue spectrometer a returning light from the peripheral nerve after each source light is transmitted to the peripheral nerve. The returning light has a returning intensity, and the tissue spectrometer can determine the returning intensity to provide readings of optical diffuse reflectance of the peripheral nerve after the stimulation is applied.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and methods generally aimed at surgery. More particularly, the present invention is directed at a system and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments involving the use of neurophysiology.

Abstract: A nerve stimulator measuring device used to measure the length of electrical conduction of a nerve using a standard electrical nerve stimulator. The device includes an outer housing attached or integrally formed on the cathode probe on the standard nerve stimulator. Mounted on the two probes or located inside the outer housing is a retractable, flexible tape measure with length measure units printed thereon. During assembly, the outer housing is positioned over the two probes so that the tape measure disposed therebetween. During use, the end point of the tape is positioned over the recording sensor. The nerve stimulator is then pulled towards the hand so that the tape unwinds to the display the desired distance. The nerve stimulator is then held so that the cathode probe is pressed against the skin over the nerve and adjacent to the desired distance shown on the tape. The nerve stimulator is then activated and a reading is obtained.

Abstract: A dermatomol somatosensory evoked potential (DSSEP) diagnositic apparatus for evaluating nerve root functions in a mammalian subject is presented. The DSSEP apparatus includes an electrical stimulator, a stimulus site selector switchbox, a connection box, a plurality of stimulating electrodes, a plurality of recording electrodes, a computer system, and a software package. The stimulating electrodes are configured to receive and to apply an electrical stimulus onto a dermal stimulation site of the mammalian subject. The recording electrodes are configured to receive an evoked potential induced by the applied electrical stimulus such that the evoked potential response passes through nerves from the dermal stimulation site to the dermal recording site. The computer system and software package process the results.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the assessment of neuromuscular function by F-wave latency. Stimuli are applied to a nerve that traverses a wrist or an ankle joint of an individual. Stimulation of the nerve causes a muscle innervated by that nerve to respond, thereby generating a myoelectric potential. One component of the myoelectric potential is the F-wave component. The F-wave latency between application of the stimulus and the detection of the myoelectric potential is used to provide an assessment of a neuromuscular function of the nerve and/or muscle.

Abstract: A method for measuring dielectric constant of body endermic tissues and body impedance based on the method of frequency digital sampling and for evaluating body composition is provided, inputting the method through the I/O interface of a microprocessor the measured body weight frequency signals, oscillating frequency signals related to dielectric constant of body endermic tissues and body impedance signals corresponding to non-fixed different frequencies, and calculating through the software of the microprocessor the body fat content, total body water, ratio between intracellular water and total body water. The body weight, body fat content, total body water and ratio between intracellular water and total body water are displayed on the display. A body composition monitor based on the above method, which includes a weighing sensor, a weighing signal processing circuit, and a display unit.

Abstract: A system, a device and a method for electrically detecting a lack of saliva in an oral cavity of an individual and for electrically stimulating the oral cavity so as to induce production of saliva from at least one salivary gland are disclosed. The system includes a control device for detecting a measure of salivation in the individual and for delivering electrical impulses to the oral cavity of the individual, a check device for checking a state of the control device and for modifying at least one parameter of the control device, and, a computer device for exchanging information with the check device.

Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of a nerve adjacent the distal end of at least one probe, comprising: determining relative neuro-muscular response onset values for a plurality of spinal nerves; emitting a stimulus pulse from a probe or surgical tool; detecting neuro-muscular responses to the stimulus pulse in each of the plurality of spinal nerves; and concluding that the electrode disposed on the distal end of the at least one probe is positioned adjacent to a first spinal nerve when the neuro-muscular response detected in the first spinal nerve is detected as a current intensity level less than or equal to a corresponding neuro-muscular response onset value of the first spinal nerve.

Abstract: A peripheral nervous system (PNS) neuromuscular disorder testing system incorporates a testing apparatus that is affixed to a patients skin, positioning a stimulus transducer (e.g., electrical contact(s), movable sharp point, etc.) into a nerve pathway of interest with an electrode and reference electrodes appropriately positioned relative thereto to measure the electrical signal produced. A wireless connection to a control box relays the data associated with the time of the stimulus and the sensed response to a diagnostic system that analyzes the waveform per selectable testing protocols with user tailorable view capabilities and data dissemination communication paths.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assessing neuromuscular pathology in an individual, by (a) applying a plurality of stimuli to a peripheral nerve; (b) recording from the peripheral nerve, or from a muscle innervated by the peripheral nerve, at least one response to each stimulus; (c) processing each response into at least one response characteristic; (d) compiling the response characteristics from all of the responses into a plurality of descriptive parameters of the response characteristics; and (e) analyzing the plurality of descriptive parameters according to a function specific to the neuromuscular pathology so as to yield an indicator of the pathology.

Abstract: To monitor subcortical responsiveness of a patient at least one first measurement signal is acquired from a patient and at least one second measurement signal is derived from the at least one first measurement signal. The second measurement signal is indicative of pain-related activity in the patient. A predetermined stimulus signal is then supplied to the patient and a response caused by the stimulus signal in the at least one second measurement signal is monitored in synchronization with the supplying of the stimulus signal. Based on the monitoring step, an indicator of subcortical responsiveness is determined, the indicator being indicative of the patient's level of antinociception.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for interpreting vaginal measurement data by electronic means without the need for the user to take part in the data interpretation process. More specifically, an intelligent probe monitors folliculogenesis and correlates the ovarian function data to probe profile characteristics of the female reproductive cycle. A fertile window is defined with reference to the correlation between folliculogenesis and probe cyclic profiles. Data stored within the apparatus can be downloaded into an external display appliance or data analysis unit. Another aspect of the invention allows for continuous layout of the memory of preceding cycles in the inventory of the apparatus, retaining the most recent while erasing the most distant stored data.

Abstract: Amplification of an evoked potential signal is carried out utilizing a high pass filter implemented as an integrator in a feedback loop which drives the DC offset voltage to zero. As a result, the feed-forward amplifier circuit has almost zero volts at its output since the only voltage remaining is the offset voltage of the operational amplifier, which is selected so as to maintain this parameter as low as possible. Because the voltage impressed across the feed-forward amplifier section is close to zero, the gain of this section can be set to zero during the time that the electrical stimulus pulse is present without introducing any additional artifacts and subsequent amplifier stages are not driven into saturation.

Abstract: A pain measurement system is capable of accurately and reliably measuring the magnitude of temporary pain in a patient while reducing burdens on the patient during pain measurement. The pain measurement system has a system assembly including a controller that controls an electric stimulus signal output unit to apply a pulse current which increases with time through an electrode. The value of the pulse current is recognized as a minimum sensed current value when a first signal is received. The electric stimulus signal output unit is then controlled to apply, through the electrode, a pulse current having a current value which increases from a predetermined initial value stepwise by nX (where X represents the minimum sensed current value and n represents a positive rational number). The current value of the pulse current is recognized as a pain-commensurate current value when a second signal is received.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an algorithm aimed at neurophysiology monitoring, and more particularly to an algorithm capable of quickly finding stimulation thresholds over multiple channels of a neurophysiology monitoring system.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a technique for rating neuromodulation efficacy based on evaluation of the response of the patient to sensory stimuli with and without delivery of neuromodulation therapy. In addition, the invention may provide a system capable of delivering sensory stimuli on a quantitative basis in a coordinated manner with delivery of neuromodulation therapy. A device programmer may provide a platform for controlling delivery of the sensory stimuli, delivery of neuromodulation therapy, and generation of rating information for neuromodulation efficacy based on patient sensory response to the stimuli. In operation, the programmer controls application of selected sensory stimuli to the patient's body and records the patient's verbal or physiological responses to the stimuli. This invention can be used to be a diagnostic or prognostic test that a given neuromodulation therapy, such as neurostimulation or drug delivery, is and will be successful.

Abstract: A method using a precisely controlled, computer programmable stimulus for neuroselective tissue stimulation that does not leave a sufficient voltage or electrical artifact on the tissue being stimulated that would interfere or prevent a monitoring system from recording the physiological response is utilized to evaluate the physiological conduction of the tissue being studied. A computer controls both the waveform, duration and intensity of the stimulus. An output trigger to the nerve response recording component controls the timing of its operation. A neuroselective nervous tissue response latency and amplitude may be determined. The computer controlled stimulus may also be administered for therapeutic purposes.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for neurophysiological assessment, specifically nerve and nerve root conduction frequencies, latencies and amplitudes, with respect to surgical intervention and insult. Real-time trends in waveforms are captured, and warnings of pathological changes reported, displayed and audibilized.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for acquiring pulse oximetry and electrocardiogram signals from an appendage of a patient. The apparatus can include a substrate that can be attached to the appendage of the patient, an emitter coupled to the substrate, a detector coupled to the substrate, and an electrode coupled to the substrate. The apparatus can generate a blood oxygen saturation output signal based on radiation received by the detector. The apparatus can also generate a reference or non-reference electrocardiogram signal. The apparatus can include a neural-muscular transmission device.

Abstract: Exemplary methods and devices for analyzing intracardiac electrocardiograms (IEGMs) using ensemble averaging and/or an ensemble average. Various methods and/or devices are suitable for use with atrial and/or ventricular autocapture. Other methods, devices and/or systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: The accuracy of neural response recordings in neural stimulators, e.g., cochlear implants, is often degraded by a recording artifact. An idealized electrical-equivalent model of a neural stimulator is created to study, measure and compensate for artifact evoked compound action potential (eCAP). Using this model, the artifact is shown to occur even when the electrical components that make-up the neural stimulator are ideal. The model contains parasitic capacitances between the electrode wires. The model demonstrates that these small parasitic capacitances provide a current path during stimulation which can deposit charge on the electrode-tissue interfaces of the recording electrodes. The dissipation of this residual charge and the charge stored across the stimulating electrode is seen as the recording artifact. The proposed solution for eliminating the artifact problem is realized by utilizing a capacitive electrode material, e.g.

Abstract: A target nerve or nerve plexus registration point is located utilizing a nerve stimulator needle positioned in a bore of a carrier. The carrier is configured with an electrically nonconductive smooth curved surface at a distal end of the bore. The needle tip is fixed in an operative cutaneous electrode position and the smooth curved surface of the carrier is forced against and compresses the epidermis, corium and subcutaneous tissue and traverses cutaneous surfaces to locate a target nerve or nerve plexus without physical penetration by the needle tip. The needle is then inserted at the located point, with or without the needle path being guided by the bore. In another embodiment, a subcutaneous portion of carrier is introduced and is pivoted about its introduction point to locate the target nerve.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for detecting tremors induced in a subject that are indicative of stress, emotion, fatigue, deception or other similar psychological states. The apparatus includes a signal source for directly applying an excitation signal having a predefined amplitude and frequency to the subject so as to induce the tremor. The apparatus also includes a Doppler system for irradiating the subject with electromagnetic radiation and for detecting the electromagnetic radiation returning from the subject following modulation by the induced tremor. The Doppler system also analyzes the returning electromagnetic radiation to determine at least one of an amplitude of the induced tremor and a phase shift of the induced tremor relative to the excitation signal provided by the signal source. The amplitude and/or phase shift of the modulated electromagnetic radiation provide information regarding the stress, emotion, fatigue, deception or other similar psychological states of the subject.