Abstract: Systems and methods for the diagnosis of chronic pain are disclosed. An algometer comprising a pressure sensor and electrode is disclosed. The algometer may be used to measure pressure applied by a clinician at a location on a patient's body, along with EMG signals emanating from the same location of the patient. Further, a pain trigger operable by the patient may be used in coordination with the algometer. Data from the algometer and pain trigger are transmitted to a computing device and display for rendering and analysis of patient data, leading to improved diagnosis.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and systems for monitoring a patient using a pressure-sensing device containing a pressure-sensitive region configured to selectively overlie a pressure ulcer-prone body part of the patient. In some embodiments, the pressure-sensing device includes a multilayered sensing unit containing a pressure-sensing layer to sense force and an adhesive layer configured to attach the pressure-sensing device to the body part. Also provided is a kit that includes the pressure-sensing device. The present methods, systems, and kits may find use in reducing the risk of pressure ulcer development in a patient.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a movement disorder includes a movement detector configured to track at least one point of reference in three dimensions, and a computing device communicatively coupled with the movement detector. The computing device is configured to receive movement data associated with the at least one point of reference over a period of time, perform a kinematic data analysis based on the movement data, compute a weighted score using the kinematic data analysis, compute a trend based on historical movement data, the weighted score and the trend being associated with the movement disorder, and display the weighted score, the trend and the movement data on a display associated with the computing device.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for creating a custom registration guide. In general, the methods may include receiving scan data of a patient's bone; creating instructions based on the scan data for creating a three-dimensional surface model of the patient's bone; and moving a plurality of moveable elements, coupled to the adjustable model, based on the instructions. The method may further include the steps of placing a malleable registration guide onto the adjustable model and shaping the registration guide to fit to the adjustable model. The method may further include the step of intraoperatively determining the location of a patient's bone using the custom registration guide. The step of determining the location of the patient's bone may include the steps of coupling the registration guide and fiducial markers to the patient's bone.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for adapting a control mapping associating sensor signals with control signals for controlling an operation of a device. The method comprises obtaining first state information for an operation of the device, providing the first state information as input to an intention model associated with an operation of the device and obtaining corresponding first intention model output, providing a plurality of neuromuscular signals recorded from a user and/or signals derived from the neuromuscular signals as inputs to a first control mapping and obtaining corresponding first control mapping output, and updating the first control mapping using the inputs provided to the first control mapping and the first intention model output to obtain a second control mapping.

Abstract: Described herein is a method employing acoustic data from a patient's abdominal cavity to predict potential onset of postoperative ileus (POI) in patients recovering from surgery. According to one embodiment of the method, the rate of intestinal motility events, as well as the change in the rate across specific time periods, is analyzed to predict, or rule out, potential onset of POI. The current risk assessment may then be reported, and used to determine a course of treatment, such as rapidly advancing diet in low risk patients according to enhanced recovery after surgery protocols. The method can be applied at the patient's bedside by a nurse or other medical provider, and used to determine the POI risk assessment for the patient.

Abstract: A system includes companion device that has movement sensors and a separate wearable device that has core contraction sensors. The companion device can be coupled to moving objects such as exercise equipment. Signals from the companion device and wearable device sensors are transmitted to a processor which analyzes the object movement signals and determines when a qualifying movement is performed which benefits from core contraction. Signals from the core contraction sensors are also transmitted to the processor and are used to determine if the core is contracted during the qualifying movement. If the core is contracted during the qualifying movement, the movement is a protected qualifying movement. However, if the core is not contracted during the qualifying movement the movement is an unprotected qualifying movement. The system can inform the user when unprotected qualifying movements are performed.

Abstract: The current disclosure is directed to embodiments of an apparatus, method and systems for collapsing/lowering an exoskeleton device including at least one motor and at least one component. In some embodiments, the device is configured to be moved by the at least one motor. When at least one of any of a plurality of faults including power faults such as a low power fault and a power failure fault, electrical faults, software faults and mechanical faults, is detected in the powering the exoskeleton device, one or more components of the device may be decelerated via the at least one motor.

Abstract: A method and system are described that allow a user to verify a registration proposal during an image-guided ophthalmic surgery. The system configured to perform the method has a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium accessible to the processor containing instructions executable by the processor to perform the method.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for calculating a biometric index using biometric information are disclosed. An apparatus for calculating a biometric index using biometric information is provided, the apparatus comprising: a transmission/reception unit for receiving biometric information collected by a user terminal or a biometric information collection apparatus; a storage unit for storing an index calculation formula for calculating a biometric index and a daily body index using the biometric information and daily body index; an extraction unit for extracting the stored biometric information and index calculation formula; and a calculation unit for calculating a biometric index and a daily body index using the received biometric information and the predetermined index calculation formula, wherein the biometric index includes one or more of an eating behavior index, an activity index, a sleep index and a heart rate variability index, and calculates the daily body index using the biometric index.

Abstract: A method for performing a medical procedure, includes coupling a tip of a probe to tissue in an organ of a patient in order to apply the medical procedure using the probe. A force exerted by the tip on the tissue and a displacement of the tip created by the force are measured. A dependence of the force on the displacement is calculated. Based on the calculated dependence, a risk level of perforation of the tissue is estimated.

Abstract: An artificial ligament is provided having an elongate body and two ends, with a loop being provided at least one of the ends and a loop liner being provided within the loop. A kit of artificial ligaments is also provided with each ligament in the kit having a different fixed length. Also provided are methods for determining a length of artificial ligament to be used within a prosthetic knee joint, selecting a ligament from a range or kit of ligaments, and implanting a prosthetic knee joint assembly comprising an artificial ligament.

Abstract: In an embodiment, the invention relates to methods, apparatus, computer programs and computer program products for estimating a dry weight of a dialysis patient comprising the steps of determining a first fluid status of the patient between treatment sessions in a first stage, determining a second fluid status of the patient during treatment sessions in a second stage and estimating the dry weight based on the second fluid status.

Abstract: A tensioning control device having a first motor that applies a torque to a first end of a substrate in a first direction and a second motor that applies a torque to a second end of the substrate in a second direction that is generally opposite the first direction is disclosed. In this manner, the first motor and the second motor apply torque to the substrate in opposing directions, thereby placing the substrate in tension. In one embodiment, the first motor applies a torque to the first end of the substrate that is equal to the torque applied to the second end of the substrate by the second motor. By placing the substrate in tension in this manner, an actuator is able to incrementally move the substrate in a forward direction and a backward direction independent of the tension applied to the substrate.

Abstract: In some embodiments, there is provide a method of analysing a bone fracture, comprising; stabilizing a bone having a fracture including a first support point located distal of the fracture and a second support point located proximal of the fracture; applying a force to an area of the bone having the fracture to cause a displacement of the fracture; imaging the bone during the application of force thereto; and comparing the image of the bone during the application of force to an image of the bone without the application of force to determine the state of the fracture.

Abstract: A haptic-jamming device may include (1) a first haptic-jamming member having a polarizable first element rotatable about an axis and a first elongated extension outwardly disposed from the first element in a first direction, (2) a second haptic-jamming member having a second element rotatable about the axis and a second elongated extension outwardly disposed from the second element in a second direction, and (3) a variable voltage source for at least one of the first haptic-jamming member or the second haptic-jamming member that, when energized, generates an electrostatic field encompassing at least one of the first or second elements. A level of separation of the first and second elements may be related to a strength of the electrostatic field. Various other methods, systems, and wearable articles are also disclosed.

Abstract: According to an aspect there is provided an apparatus for determining a measure of the physical fitness of a subject, the apparatus comprising a processing unit that is configured to receive a first measurement signal from a first sensor that measures the force or pressure exerted on an object by the subject over time, the first measurement signal comprising measurements representing the force or pressure exerted on the object during a first movement in which the subject sits down on the object and/or during a second movement in which the subject stands up after sitting on the object; and analyze the first measurement signal to determine the measure of the physical fitness of the subject.

Abstract: A pressure-sensing device includes a device frame, a flexible membrane, a pressure sensor, and device electronics. The device frame includes a base surface that rests on a supporting structure and a frame attachment region located opposite to the base surface such that the frame attachment region is raised from the supporting structure when the base surface is resting on the supporting structure. The device frame also includes a seating surface. The flexible membrane is attached to the frame attachment region such that the device frame and the flexible membrane enclose a pressure chamber. The seating surface extends outward around the flexible membrane and the flexible membrane protrudes above the seating surface. The pressure sensor is configured to generate a pressure signal. The device electronics are configured to determine the pressure in the pressure chamber based on the pressure signal.

Abstract: A method for dynamic analysis of a physiological parameter of a user includes: generating a first event label corresponding to a first measurement value of the physiological parameter measured at a first time point; generating a second event label corresponding to a second measurement value of the physiological parameter measured at a second time point; calculating a time difference between the first and second time points; calculating a measurement value difference between the first and second measurement values when a time difference between the first and second time points is smaller than a time length threshold; and providing an analysis outcome based on the first and second event labels and the measurement value difference.

Abstract: An endoscope includes: an insertion portion including a bending portion; an operation portion including a grasping portion and an operation portion main body; a pedestal portion protruded from the operation portion main body; a shaft member configured to be tilted; a finger contact portion on which a finger of a hand is placed, the finger contact portion being provided at an end portion of the shaft member; and a step portion on which a finger of the operator's hand, which is different from the finger placed on the finger placing portion, is placed, the step portion being provided at a position which is outside of a peripheral edge of the pedestal portion and which is an opposite side of the grasping portion across the shaft member.

Abstract: A system captures a baby's physical characteristics taken on two or more specified days since birth and sensor input from a device capturing a rhythm produced by the baby's nervous system on at least each of those two or more specified days since birth, and identify whether the baby is at risk for neuro-developmental issues. The system may estimate stochastic trajectories for each day's sensor data and, from the stochastic trajectories, determine a maximum shift amplitude and percentage of transitions within and between regions of a Gamma plane. The system may plot the change in maximum shift amplitudes over successive days against the change in physical characteristics over those successive days, and perform a linear fit for the plot to track the neuro-development and identify risk of issues for the baby.

Abstract: A subject performs a sit-to-stand operation while wearing a device (SU) that contains an acceleration sensor (11) on the front of the chest. The present invention derives a muscular strength index representing the muscular strength of a human body by obtaining maximum acceleration value data from a signal expressing the size of an acceleration vector comprising a tri-axial component in detected acceleration, and using the maximum acceleration value data and the muscle mass or body fat mass of the subject. The present invention has the ability to derive a physical activity amount from the acceleration detection results, and on the basis of the activity amount (ACT) during a prescribed activity target period and the muscular strength index at the start and end times of the activity target period, obtains an activity efficiency index that corresponds to changes in the muscular strength index in response to the amount of activity.

Abstract: A patient support system for supporting a patient includes a core support structure which includes supportive foam. The support structure has an upper surface and a lower surface. A radar apparatus, including at least one antenna situated beneath the upper surface and spatially separated therefrom, is adapted to emit a pulse which travels through the support structure and is reflected, by either the upper surface or a surrogate thereof, as a reflected signal back to the radar antenna. The emitted pulse and reflected signal comprise a ranging signal. The patient support system also includes circuitry that determines a life parameter of the core support structure as a function of at least the ranging signal. The patient support system also includes an RFID tag having a memory. The RFID tag is in communication with the circuitry.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for training a classification model and using the trained classification model to recognize gestures performed by a user. An apparatus comprises a processor that is programmed to: receive, via a plurality of neuromuscular sensors, a first plurality of neuromuscular signals from a user as the user performs a first single act of a gesture; train a classification model based on the first plurality of neuromuscular signals, the training including: deriving value(s) from the first plurality of neuromuscular signals, the value(s) indicative of distinctive features of the gesture including at least one feature that linearly varies with a force applied during performance of the gesture; and generating a first categorical representation of the gesture in the classification model based on the value(s); and determine that the user performed a second single act of the gesture, based on the trained classification model and a second plurality of neuromuscular signals.

Abstract: Athletic activity may be tracked while providing encouragement to perform athletic activity. For example, energy expenditure values and energy expenditure intensity values may be calculated and associated with a duration and type of activity performed by an individual. These values and other movement data may be displayed on an interface in a manner to motivate the individual and maintain the individual's interest. The interface may track one or more discrete “sessions”. The sessions may be associated with energy expenditure values during a duration that is within a second duration, such as a day, that is also tracked with respect to variables, such as energy expenditure. Other individuals (e.g., friends) may also be displayed on an interface through which a user's progress is tracked. This may allow the user to also view the other individuals' progress toward completing an activity goal and/or challenge.

Abstract: Systems, methods and computer program products for image recognition in which instructions are executable by a processor to dynamically generate simulated documents and corresponding images, which are then used to train a fully convolutional neural network. A plurality of document components are provided, and the processor selects subsets of the document components. The document components in each subset are used to dynamically generate a corresponding simulated document and a simulated document image. The convolutional neural network processes the simulated document image to produce a recognition output. Information corresponding to the document components from which the image was generated is used as an expected output. The recognition output and expected output are compared, and weights of the convolutional neural network are adjusted based on the differences between them.

Abstract: A fastening device of a penis extension device includes a coupling element for exerting a tensile force on a penis and a tensile force meter, a first electronics component and a first current source. The tensile force meter electrically or electronically determines the measurement value for the exerted tension together with the first electronics component, and the first electronics component has a first radio device for transmitting the determined measurement value to an external receiver. With this device it is possible for a relevant measurement value, in particular the measurement value for the exerted tensile force, to be transmitted from the sensitive area in which the fastening device is used to an external device, for example to an app of a cell phone.

Abstract: A tracking system includes a first device and a second device. The second device comprises an optical module, an ultrasonic module and a processor. The optical module is configured to capture image data in a first detection field. The ultrasonic module is configured to collect ultrasonic data in a second detection field different from the first detection field. The processor is configured to determine a relative position of a target device relative to the tracking device in a third detection field according to the image data and the ultrasonic data. The third detection field is larger than the first detection field and larger than the second detection field.

Abstract: A system captures and displays video of surgeries. The system may include at least one digital image sensor optically coupled to one or more lenses and configured to capture a video sequence of a scene in a surgery; at least one interface configured to receive at least one region on interest (ROI) of the captured video sequence; an electronic display, selected so that at least one of the digital image sensors has a pixel resolution which is substantially greater than the pixel resolution of the electronic display; and a computer processor configured to: receive the at least one captured video sequence and the at least one received ROI and display over the at least one electronic display a portion of the captured video sequence based on the at least one selected ROI.

Abstract: An apparatus generates motor function estimation information by performing a process including calculating, using a sensor value of a subject, a feature vector corresponding to a feature value of a feature in a time segment, acquiring a first weight vector using the feature vector and a motor ability value of the subject, calculating a gradient vector with respect to the feature vector, determining a new time segment in the predetermined time period and a new feature value based on the new time segment, calculating, using the sensor value, a feature candidate vector corresponding to a feature value of the new feature in the new time segment, determining a feature candidate vector satisfying a predetermined condition associated with a gradient vector based on a difference between the feature candidate vector and the feature vector, and correcting the first weight vector to a second weight vector using the feature candidate vector.

Abstract: A platform of devices for removing obstructions and other objects within a blood vessel or other interior lumen of an animal is provided. The system may be deployed in the lumen from a catheter(s) and may include a strain gauge for measuring tension on the pull wire. A number of different baskets designs are disclosed. Methods of manufacturing such baskets out of a single tube of a memory metal without the need for any welding, and methods of use are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus provides a body worn apparatus having a plurality of activation elements arranged in at least one bundle, and a substrate supporting the plurality of activation elements. The method also places the body worn apparatus onto the body of a person, and activates the at least one bundle.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating penile aberrations include the use of traction devices. For example, this document describes devices and methods for applying longitudinal and/or contralateral penile traction forces to treat anatomical aberrations related to Peyronie's disease and other conditions.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems are provided for analyzing lung imaging data. A server computing device receives imaging data of a lung over a network from a client computing device and analyzes the imaging data to identify lung, airways, and blood vessels, segment the lung into lobes, subtract airways, calculate volumes, calculate emphysema scores, identify fissure locations, calculate fissure completeness scores. A reconstruction of the fissures indicating locations where the fissures are incomplete and a report comprising fissure scores, volumes, and emphysema scores are created.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to managing user interfaces associated with physical activities. The user interface displays a scrollable list of affordances associated with physical activities. The affordances may contain physical activity and heart rate information. A user can launch a physical activity tracking function or an interface to change a workout metric using an affordance. Users can also control the music that is played in response to selecting a workout. Further, the interface can be used to compose a reply message to a received message that contains workout information. The interfaces can show a graph that includes heart data when the user's heart rate meets a heart rate alert criteria.

Abstract: A system and method for objectively grading a cut of meat is provided. The system generally comprises an animal having at least one sensor associated therewith, a processor operably connected to the at least one sensor, a QR device operably connected to the processor and configured to read QR codes applied to a cut of meat, a plurality of computing entities operably connected to the processor via a network, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon. The system may collect lifetime data of an animal until fabrication. The system may then track and collect data about the carcass of the animal throughout the fabrication process to the point of sale. Based on this data, the system may create a quality score that a user may view prior to purchasing a cut of meat using an application of their computing device.

Abstract: A method and device for identifying a human movement state that includes: determining according to acceleration signals that are collected by a three-axis acceleration sensor that a human is in a walking state, calculating a walking step number of the human, and calculating a walking step frequency according to the number; calculating a corresponding physical sign frequency during the walking process according to a physical sign signal that is collected; and comparing the walking step frequency and the physical sign frequency that are obtained by calculating respectively with a step frequency threshold and a physical sign frequency threshold, and if the walking step frequency is greater than the step frequency threshold, and the physical sign frequency is greater than the physical sign frequency threshold, determining that the human movement state is a running state, and recording the calculated walking step number to be a running step number.

Abstract: The current invention relates to an integrated device suitable for measuring the difference between a strain in a ligament at a first point in time and said strain at a second point in time, said integrated device comprising: a ligament-attaching element adapted to be fastened on said ligament; a slider module adapted to be fastened on said ligament near said first ligament-attaching element, said slider module comprising a slider guiding channel; a slider comprising a distal slider end and a proximal slider end, said distal slider end fastened on said ligament-attaching element, said proximal slider end guided in said slider guiding channel; a sensor configured to measure a strain-indicating parameter representing a position of said proximal slider end for obtaining said difference between said strain in said ligament at said first point in time and said strain at said second point in time, wherein said sensor comprises a Hall sensor which converts a position of said proximal slider end into a conditioned el

Abstract: A method includes obtaining load-deformation data for a joint, the load-deformation data being gathered via joint testing implemented by robotic test equipment, the robotic test equipment being configured for movement of the joint and comprising sensors to gather the load-deformation data during the movement. A load-deformation curve function for the load-deformation data is generated, the load-deformation curve function defining a curve fitted to the load-deformation data. A feature of the curve defined by the load-deformation curve function is quantified. A biomechanical characteristic of the joint is identified based on the quantified feature of the curve defined by the load-deformation curve function.

Abstract: The described knee rehabilitation device can include any suitable component. In some implementations, however, it includes a sitting surface that is configured to support a user; a knee arm that comprises a leg coupling mechanism, that is pivotally coupled to the rehabilitation device, and that is configured to pivot through a range of motion; and a drive mechanism that is configured to force the knee arm through the range of motion. In some cases, the drive mechanism includes a first hard stop that prevents the knee arm from extending past a first set point, and the drive mechanism further includes a second hard stop that prevents the knee arm from being retracted past a second set point. In some cases, the device is further configured to be programmed to electronically limit the knee arm's range of motion. Other implementations are discussed.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to managing user interfaces associated with physical activities. The user interface displays a scrollable list of affordances associated with physical activities. The affordances may contain physical activity and heart rate information. A user can launch a physical activity tracking function or an interface to change a workout metric using an affordance. Users can also control the music that is played in response to selecting a workout. Further, the interface can be used to compose a reply message to a received message that contains workout information. The interfaces can show a graph that includes heart data when the user's heart rate meets a heart rate alert criteria.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and, methods for measuring deformation variation in an insole to determine characteristics of a user, including weight and gait, are described herein. In some embodiments, a device includes an insole having a fluid reservoir configured to be disposed in a shoe, a deformation sensor, and a communications module. The fluid reservoir includes a first portion and a second portion. The deformation sensor is coupled to the fluid reservoir and is configured to measure a deformation in at least one of the first portion and the second portion. The communications module is configured to receive the measured deformation from the deformation sensor and transmit the measured deformation to a remote device.

Abstract: There is provided a method and apparatus for providing a cavity backed antenna suitable for off-body communications. The cavity backed antenna comprising a substantially omnidirectional antenna element (11) mountable upon a user's body such that an underlying bone (17) forms the cavity back plate. The cavity between the antenna element and the underlying bone thereby being filled with soft tissue (14, 15, 16). The cavity backed antenna operating in synergy with the mechanical and electrical characteristics of the body to deliver an overall directional gain pointing away from the user's body.

Abstract: A medical system for removing far-field signals from a unipolar electrical signal is disclosed. In embodiments, the medical system comprises a catheter and a processing device communicatively coupled to the catheter. The catheter comprises a plurality of electrodes configured to sense a plurality of unipolar signals transmitted through tissue. The processing device is configured to: receive the sensed unipolar electrical signals, determine an electrode having a high level of contact with the tissue, and determine an electrode having a lower level of contact with the tissue than the electrode having the high level of contact with the tissue. Further, the processing device is configured to determine a sensed near-field electrical signal based on the unipolar electrical signal received from the electrode having the high level of contact and the unipolar electrical signal received from the electrode having the lower level of contact.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and detecting the gait and other health related parameters of a user. One such parameter is monitoring of medication compliance and treatment session attendance done by a medication and liquid dispensing apparatus, which combines mechanical dispensing of medication. These parameters are provided in standard of care summaries to care providers, and are continually reported by the Optimum Recognition Blueprint as Standard of Care Summaries to care providers, as well as communicated to the end-user by the Virtual Caregiver Interface.

Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an operation panel including a plurality of operation input units and disposed on an X-ray imaging table, and a substrate including circuits disposed inside the operation panel and configured to output signals due to operation of the plurality of operation input units and a sensor configured to sense ingress of liquid.

Abstract: A robotic system includes a bedside system comprising an axial drive mechanism and a rotational drive mechanism. An engagement mechanism engages and disengages a percutaneous device from at least one of the axial drive mechanism and rotational drive mechanism. A remote work station includes a user interface and a control system operatively coupled to the user interface. The control system is configured to communicate a control signal to the engagement mechanism to engage and disengage the percutaneous device from one of the axial drive mechanism and rotational drive mechanism.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring the angle and range of motion of a body joint used in the course of medical treatment. Index marks are placed on the limbs of the patient that correspond to registration indicators on the arms of the device. This allows consistent application of the device in measurement sessions over time to ensure consistent measurements of the joint. A fixed display and a wireless broadcast of the angle are for reading the angles of the joint.

Abstract: A method for imaging an object by ultrasound elastography through continuous vibration of the ultrasound transducer is taught. An actuator directly in contact with the ultrasound transducer continuously vibrates the transducer in an axial direction, inducing shear waves in the tissue and allowing for real-time shear wave imaging. Axial motion of the transducer contaminates the shear wave images of the tissue, and must be suppressed. Therefore, several methods for correcting for shear wave artifact caused by the motion of the transducer are additionally taught.

Abstract: A measurement system for installation of a prosthetic component. The measurement system comprises a housing, a slide block, a medial plate, a lateral plate, a fixed plate, and a threaded shaft. The fixed plate couples to the housing. The threaded shaft couples to the slide block. The threaded shaft is rotated to move the slide block within the housing. The slide block includes a free wheel gear. A medial plate and a lateral plate respectively couple to a medial post and a lateral post. The medial post and lateral post each have gear teeth that is configured to couple the free wheel gear. The housing retains, aligns and supports movement of the medial and lateral post parallel to the slide block. A medial brake and a lateral brake is configured to couple to the medial post and the lateral post to prevent movement under user control.