Abstract: The method determines parameters to generate confocal ultrasound beams (B1,B2) inside a medium (4), and uses a device (1) comprising first and second ultrasound means (11,12) and first and second displacement members (13,14) for moving the ultrasound means (11,12). The parameters include signals s1,s2 to the ultrasound means (11,12), and the positions x1,x2 of the ultrasound means (11,12). The parameters are optimized for having a minimum amplitude a1,a2 of the signals s1,s2 and having an acoustic effect inside the medium (4).

Abstract: A method of increasing bone marrow stem cells in the blood stream, and targeting those stem cells toward specific damaged or diseased organs in the body so that the tissue in these organs might be repaired. The method comprises ingestion of a claimed formulation having effective amounts of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae and fucoidan being released into the blood stream over a measured period of time, and during that period, irradiating the ribs, skull, vertebrae, or pelvic bones, as well as the damaged or diseased area with low-level laser therapy. The combination of ingesting the formulation and the low-level laser therapy causes the release of bone marrow pluripotent stem cells, which then transform into the targeted tissue cells, thereby repairing the damaged or diseased tissue.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for facilitating delivery of a substance through skin (70) of a subject. A skin preparation device (50), and a patch assembly (20) that comprises the substance and is magnetically couplable to the skin preparation device, are described. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: This invention concerns treating apparently normal tissue surrounding sites of cancerous tumors so as to reduce both the probability of a recurrence of cancer at and near the site of a cancerous tissue, and to reduce the amount of apparently healthy tissue that is usually excised along with the tumor, thereby providing a substantial benefit to the cancer patient by eliminating or delaying tumor recurrence and sparing normal tissue for its functionality and for avoiding unnecessary disfigurement.

Abstract: An electromagnetic energy system adapted to reduce scar formation associated with a skin wound includes a memory, an electromagnetic energy source, an optical energy conduit, a handpiece, and a controller. The memory includes predetermined beam parameter information. The electromagnetic energy source is adapted to generate an electromagnetic energy beam having at least one beam parameter corresponding to the predetermined beam parameter information. The electromagnetic energy beam having the at least one beam parameter is adapted to reduce scar formation associated with a skin wound. The optical energy conduit has a proximal and a distal end, and is coupled to the electromagnetic energy source at the proximal end. The handpiece is coupled to the distal end of the optical energy conduit. The controller is adapted to activate the electromagnetic energy source to deliver to a treatment area near the skin wound.

Abstract: Methods of tissue passivation are described herein for use in preserving normal tissue architecture, reducing post-surgical inflammation, and reducing or preventing the development of pathogenic collagen bundles and adhesions following surgical procedures. Passivated tissues prepared in accordance with these methods are useful in a variety of therapies including, e.g., cardiac bypass surgery, hemodialysis, etc.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a wound-care assembly The wound-care assembly includes a base layer. A film layer is operatively coupled to the base layer and a fluid conductor is in fluid communication with a wound and a vacuum source. The wound-care assembly further includes a fiber-optic patch comprising a plurality of fiber-optic strands. The fiber-optic strands are pressed into contact with an interior surface of the wound by the fluid conductor. The fiber-optic patch provides ultraviolet light to the wound and the relative vacuum is applied to the wound via the vacuum source and the fluid conductor.

Abstract: A system (101) for treatment of an epithelial tissue layer (3) is provided. The system comprises a reservoir (107), for containing an amount of a flowable medium, arranged to enable the medium, when contained in the reservoir, to be in contact with a surface (5) of the epithelial tissue layer, a light source (109) for generating a laser beam (11) during at least a predetermined pulse time, and an optical system for focusing the laser beam into a focal spot (15), and for positioning the focal spot in a target position. The target position of the focal spot is within the reservoir and within the medium, when contained in the reservoir, and the dimension of the focal spot and the power of the generated laser beam are such that, in the focal spot, the laser beam has a power density, which is above the characteristic threshold value for the medium, above which, for the predetermined pulse time, a laser induced optical breakdown event occurs in the medium.

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

Abstract: A method of skin tissue (1) treatment is provided which comprises the steps of: determining a treatment zone (9) within the skin tissue below the skin surface (3); modifying an electrical conductance property of at least two first skin tissue portions (11) present on opposite sides of the treatment zone with respect to a direction parallel to the skin surface; and providing radio frequency (RF) energy to the treatment zone via said first skin tissue portions. The step of modifying said first skin tissue portions comprises decreasing electrical impedance for the radiofrequency energy, in particular increasing electrical conductance, of said first skin tissue portions relative to a second skin tissue portion present between said first skin tissue portions; and such that said first skin tissue portions extend into the skin tissue substantially from the skin surface to treatment zone. A system for skin tissue (1) treatment is also provided.

Abstract: Wounds in the eye following surgery or injury are sealed by soaking the area with a riboflavin solution containing iodide ion and irradiating the wound area with UVA radiation in a selected wavelength range for a selected time period to promote cross-linking of tissue between opposite surfaces of the wound or between the incised wound surfaces and a graft or implant.

Abstract: A light generating circuit is implanted in a subject's body and aimed at a target region such as a tumor. A photosensitizer is introduced into the target region, and an AC electric field is induced in the region. The field causes the light generating circuit to generate light, which activates the photosensitizer; and at certain field strengths and frequencies, the field itself has a beneficial effect. The beneficial effects of the field and the activated photosensitizer are thereby obtained simultaneously.

Abstract: A light generating circuit is implanted in a subject's body and aimed at a target region such as a tumor. A photosensitizer is introduced into the target region, and an AC electric field is induced in the region. The field causes the light generating circuit to generate light, which activates the photosensitizer; and at certain field strengths and frequencies, the field itself has a beneficial effect. The beneficial effects of the field and the activated photosensitizer are thereby obtained simultaneously.

Abstract: The invention relates to pharmaceutically acceptable salts of amphiphilic photosensitizing agents which have a water solubility of at least 0.5 mg/ml and to their use in methods of photochemical internalization. Such salts may be formed from a pharmaceutically acceptable base, for example an organic amine such as an amino alcohol, or from a pharmaceutically acceptable acid, for example a sulphonic acid or a sulphonic acid derivative. Due to their increased water solubility, such salts are particularly suitable for use in the preparation of parenteral pharmaceutical preparations, e.g. for use as solutions for injection or infusion.

Abstract: Methods and compositions to controllably regulate cells at a target site. A quantum dot-targeting agent complex is administered to a patient in need of therapy, and the complex is stimulated using an implanted fiber optic system. In embodiments, the system includes an electrical sensor that detects and monitors electrical activity of the stimulated controllably regulated cells, and relays this information to a controller that can regulate further stimulation.

Abstract: Biophotonic compositions comprising a photoactivator, a calcium phosphate mineral, hyaluronic acid and optionally glucosamine are disclosed. Said compositions have utility in the augmentation, repair and/or regeneration of bone when used in conjunction with actinic light of a wavelength absorbed by the photoactivator.

Abstract: A system and method for delivering a payload to ocular tissue includes a solution of light-degradable nanoparticles encapsulating the payload. The solution may be introduced to the ocular tissue by way of injection or through a contact lens into which the solution is embedded. A light source delivers a beam of light to the ocular tissue at the location where the solution was introduced to initiate breakdown of the particles, releasing the payload. The light source may be a laser, LED, LCD or arc lamp emitting in the ultraviolet light range.

Abstract: A cochlear implant electrode includes an electrode carrier having an electrode array with a groove disposed in a longitudinal direction along the electrode carrier, and a stopper positioned around the electrode carrier. The stopper has a protrusion on its inner surface that is configured to be positioned within the groove such that the stopper is movable with respect to the electrode carrier and a skirt disposed on a portion of its outer surface. Another configuration includes an electrode carrier having an electrode array with grooves disposed in a transverse direction along the electrode carrier, and a stopper positioned around the electrode carrier and configured to be positioned within each groove and movable with respect to the electrode carrier. The stopper has a skirt disposed on a portion of its outer surface.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, apparatus, systems, and methods for transvascularly stimulation of a nerve or nerve trunk. In an example, an apparatus is configured to transvascularly stimulate a nerve trunk through a blood vessel. The apparatus includes an expandable electrode that is chronically implantable in a blood vessel proximate a nerve trunk. The expandable electrode is configured to abut a predetermined surface area of the vessel wall along a predetermined length of the vessel. An electrical lead is coupled to the expandable electrode. An implantable pulse generator is coupled to the lead and configured to deliver an electrical stimulation signal to the electrode through the lead. in an example method, an electrical signal is delivered from an implanted medical device to an electrode chronically implanted in a blood vessel proximate a nerve trunk to transvascularly deliver neural stimulation from the electrode to the nerve trunk.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides biophotonic topical compositions, kits and their uses. In particular, the biophotonic compositions of the present disclosure are substantially resistant to leaching such that very low amounts of chromophore(s) present in the biophotonic composition leach out of the composition. The biophotonic compositions and their uses are useful for promoting wound healing and skin rejuvenation, as well as treating acne and various skin disorders.

Abstract: An electroporation device produces electric signals that may be adjusted in response to a cover area of electrodes, so that the electric signals are tolerable when delivered to cells within the cover area. The electroporation device can include an applicator, a plurality of electrodes extending from the applicator, a power supply in electrical communication with the electrodes, and a guide member coupled to the electrodes. The electrodes are associated with a cover area. The power supply is configured to generate one or more electroporating signals to cells within the cover area. The guide member can be configured to adjust the cover area of the electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrical signals may include opposing waveforms that produce a resultant interference waveform to effectively target the cover area, and each waveform may be a unipolar waveform or a bipolar waveform.

Abstract: A wireless remote control comprising a sensor that generates an output signal as a function of its alignment that directly or indirectly activates or deactivates at least one electronic circuit, a plug socket, a first contact of the plug socket connected to a control input of a power supply device, an external plug that connects the first contact to a second contact when inserted into the plug socket and thus the power supply device is deactivated independently of the output signal of the sensor.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods comprising providing a tyrosine derivative and a solid particulate material (and, optionally, melanin) and applying force to said tyrosine derivative and said solid particulate material for a time and under conditions effective to impregnate at least one of said tyrosine derivative and said solid particulate material with the other of said tyrosine derivative and said solid particulate material. The invention also provides compositions comprising at least one of a tyrosine derivative impregnated with a solid particulate material and a solid particulate material impregnated with a tyrosine derivative.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for securing an ingestible electronic device to a pharmaceutical product without damaging the ingestible electronic device. The product includes the ingestible electronic device being placed on the product in accordance with one aspect of the present invention. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the ingestible electronic device is placed inside the product. Various embodiments are disclosed in accordance with the present invention for protecting and/or coating of the electronic marker as well as securing the ingestible electronic device onto the product.

Abstract: Otologic materials and methods are provided. For example, a cell-adhesive, biodegradable hydrogel scaffold loaded with time-released drugs for repairing chronic tympanic membrane perforations is disclosed, methods of making same and administering same are provided. This hydrogel may promote vascular in-growth and epithelial cell growth of the tympanic membrane with the purpose of closing the perforation and providing a barrier between the external and middle ear. The hydrogel is initially a liquid polymer that only gels upon exposure to specific conditions, such as exposure to light. This scaffold may simultaneously induce repair of the tympanic membrane while preventing or alleviating middle ear infection, thus filling a void in current tympanic membrane perforation therapies.

Abstract: Intralumenal devices and methods are provided for transmucosal drug delivery. The device may comprise a housing configured for intralumenal deployment into a human or animal subject; a drug-dispensing portion which contains at least one drug; and an electrically-actuatable portion configured to disrupt at least one region of a mucosal barrier adjacent to the housing at a selected time while intralumenally deployed in the human or animal subject. The device may be operable to dispense the drug from the housing to a region of the mucosal barrier disrupted by the electrically-actuatable portion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method of directing, focusing, or concentrating electrical charges within a defined electric field so that these charges can be used to exert forces on cells and tissues in vivo and/or cell cultures in vitro. The present invention reduces and/or eliminates the damage at a target site that would normally be caused by an electrode that acts as a current source or sink to accomplish the same task.

Abstract: Iontophoretic devices for transdermal delivery of a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor agonist active agent are provided. Also provided are methods of transdermally delivering a therapeutically effective amount of a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor agonist active agent to a subject, e.g., to treat immune system disorders such as multiple sclerosis. Packaged iontophoretic systems, kits including iontophoretic devices, and methods of making iontophoretic devices are also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a therapeutic system comprising: a console, wherein the console comprises a controller and an energy generator; a therapeutic device comprising: an operational head configured for transmitting the energy output from to a biological tissue; and a memory device comprising control instructions, wherein said control instructions comprise instructions for controlling the console; a reversible memory operable linkage linking the memory device to the controller; and a reversible connector configured for operably linking the energy generator to the operational head. Optionally, the energy generator is a generator of ablation energy or heat energy (e.g. RF generator) and the control instructions comprise instructions for controlling the output of the energy generator. Optionally, the control instructions comprise one or more parameters of energy output or an algorithm configured for controlling the energy output.

Abstract: Devices and methods are discussed directed to the use of a low profile laser ablation catheter for use in laser ablation removal of arterial plaque blockages to restore blood flow in the treatment of arteriovenous fistulas. Also discussed are devices and methods directed to packaging, long term storage and sterilization of liquid core ablation catheters.

Abstract: An electrode cover for use with a medical electrode is formed of a main body having a substantially planer configuration with a distal surface constructed to mate with an electrode and a proximal surface constructed for placement on a user's skin, wherein the main body is constructed and arranged with thickness and porosity to deliver 95.0-99.9% of electrical energy transmitted from said medical electrode to the skin surface of a patient.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide methods for the transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents for the treatment of addictive cravings e.g., nicotine compounds for the treatment of nicotine cravings from tobacco use. An embodiment of a method for such delivery comprises positioning at least one electrode assembly in electrical communication with a patient's skin. The assembly includes a solution comprising a therapeutic agent which passively diffuses into the skin. A dose of agent is delivered from the assembly into the skin during a first period using a first current having a characteristic e.g., polarity and magnitude, to repel the agent out of the assembly. During a second period, a second current having a characteristic to attract the agent is used to retain the agent in the assembly such that delivery of agent into skin is minimized. A dose of agent may be delivered on demand by an input from the patient.

Abstract: Delivery systems and methods for delivering riboflavin (R/F) and UVA irradiation to the sclera are disclosed. The R/F is delivered and then activated with UVA irradiation through the use of LEDs or optical fibers, thereby causing cross-linking of the collagen tissue. Delivery systems include implantable structures which provide surfaces that conform to the sclera. The delivery systems include various types of structures for delivery of R/F onto the sclera surface. Additionally, the delivery systems include UVA sources which provide irradiation of R/F in sclera collagen tissue.

Abstract: The present invention provides a skin care device with multiple functions. The skin care device includes a main body having a first connecting terminal formed on the upper portion thereof; a plurality of skin care heads individually and detachably combined with the main body, the skin care heads each having a second connecting terminal formed on the lower portion thereof and having at least one of a galvanic current generator, an ultrasonic vibrator, or a near-infrared light emitting diode (LED) installed therein; and a product identification displaying part displays an identification number of the heads or a relevant image of the heads on a display screen when the first connecting terminal and the second connection terminal are connected each other. The skin care device allows users to care their skin effectively through a variety of beneficial functions such as galvanic electric current, ultrasonic vibrations, and near-infrared LED.

Abstract: Devices and approaches for activating cross-linking within corneal tissue to stabilize and strengthen the corneal tissue following an eye therapy treatment. A feedback system is provided to acquire measurements and pass feedback information to a controller. The feedback system may include an interferometer system, a corneal polarimetry system, or other configurations for monitoring cross-linking activity within the cornea. The controller is adapted to analyze the feedback information and adjust treatment to the eye based on the information. Aspects of the feedback system may also be used to monitor and diagnose features of the eye 1. Methods of activating cross-linking according to information provided by a feedback system in order to improve accuracy and safety of a cross-linking therapy are also provided.

Abstract: Presented herein are techniques that transform a recipient's cells into active cells. More specifically, the techniques presented herein transfect optically-sensitive elements into the cells. The optically-sensitive elements may cause the nerve cells to fire or activate (i.e., generate an action potential) in the presence of electromagnetic radiation, or may prevent the nerve cells from firing or activating in the presence of electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: The present invention provides porous electroactive hydrogels, the deformation angle of which is controlled by electroactuation, and methods for preparing and using such hydrogels.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions containing photoactivatable caged tamoxifen and tamoxifen derivative molecules. Also provided are kits containing one of these compositions and a light source. Also provided are methods of optically inducing nuclear translocation of a fusion protein containing a mammalian estrogen receptor ligand binding domain in a eukaryotic cell and methods of optically inducing recombination in a eukaryotic cell that include contacting a eukaryotic cell with at least one of these compositions. Also provided are methods of treating breast cancer in a subject that include administering a photoactivatable caged tamoxifen or tamoxifen derivative molecule to a subject having breast cancer.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide patches for the transdermal delivery of iron-containing compositions to an individual suffering from an iron deficiency. Many embodiments provide an iontophoretic patch for the transdermal delivery of a therapeutically effective amount of iron. The patch comprises an electrode and a reservoir containing a composition comprising ionic iron for the delivery of the therapeutically effective amount of iron. Various embodiments provide methods of using embodiments of the iontophoretic patch for delivering a therapeutically effective amount of iron to an individual suffering from one more forms of iron deficiency including iron deficiency anemia. Such methods can be used for treating and/or preventing the iron deficiency. The amount of delivered iron can be adjusted depending upon various treatment parameters such as patient weight and type and amount of iron deficiency.

Abstract: Disclosed are nanovectors of formula (I) that can be used simultaneously for the targeting, imaging and treatment, by photodynamic therapy, of cancer cells, and to biodegradable silicon nanoparticles containing a variety of photosensitizing molecules, in particular porphyrins, capable of targeting diseased cells and inducing cell death by excitation in the near-infrared region (>600 nm) in monophotonic and biphotonic modes. In formula (I), (AA) is a porous silicon nanoparticle.

Abstract: An apparatus for transdermal fluid delivery includes a handle and a tip, having a skin applying surface, being driven to move by a driving unit. A fluid delivery structure has an aperture formed at the skin applying surface and a vacuum entry port. An abrading structure, an electrode structure, and a micro-needling structure are selectively provided at the skin applying surface with the fluid delivery structure to provide multiple functions of the tip. A flow of fluid is delivered onto the skin applying surface through the fluid delivery structure to interact with the abrading elements and the electrodes before the fluid is returned and collected, so that three different skin treatments of abrasive peeling, electrical stimulation, and liquid infusion are achieved in one single structure for improving a skin structure.

Abstract: Methods and devices treating an autonomic nervous system associated disease condition in a subject are provided. Aspects of the invention include inducing one or more physiological response selected from the group consisting of sweating, gastric emptying, enhanced heart rate variability and enhanced quantitative sensory test responsiveness in a manner sufficient to modify the autonomic nervous system so as to treat the subject for the disease condition. The methods and devices find use in a variety of applications, e.g. in the treatment of subjects suffering from conditions arising from disorders of the autonomic nervous system.

Abstract: Methods and devices related to the treatment of diseases using phototherapy are described. Some embodiments provide an organic light-emitting diode device, such as a light-emitting device for phototherapy, comprising Ring System 1, Ring System 2, Ring System 3, Ring System 4 or Ring System 5. Methods of treating disease with phototherapy are also described.

Abstract: A liposome comprising a lipid bilayer encapsulating a complex containing a hydrophobic active ingredient and a polypeptide, a pharmaceutical composition including the liposome, and a method of delivering an active ingredient to a target site in the body of a subject.

Abstract: There is provided a skin rejuvenation composition which comprises at least one oxidant, at least one photoactivator capable of activating the oxidant, and at least one healing factor chosen from hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and allantoin, in association with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Abstract: The present document describes methods of use of photo activated compositions for oral disinfection and/or treatments which comprise at least one oxidant, at least one photoactivator capable of activating the oxidant, and at least one healing factor chosen from hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and allantoin, in association with a pharmacologically acceptable carrier.

Abstract: Methods and systems for treating a tissue with a high frequency electric field to activate MAPK/ERK pathways, induce angiogenesis, induce angionenic factos such as NO and VEGF, or promote wound healing. Aspects of the invention are directed to methods of treating chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers and hypoxia induced wounds. Aspects utilize high frequency electric field having a frequency in the GHz range, and preferably between about 1 GHz and about 10 GHz.

Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus for the delivery of polynucleotide vaccines into mammalian skin cells to increase T cell response and to reduce pain and discomfort due to long electric waveform application and due to muscle contractions. The method for the delivery of polynucleotide vaccines into mammalian skin cells includes the steps of: (a.) administering a polynucleotide vaccine into the skin at an administration site, (b.) applying a needle electrode to the skin in the vicinity to the administration site, and (c.) applying a sequence of at least three single, operator-controlled, independently programmed, narrow interval electrical waveforms, which have pulse intervals that are less than 100 milliseconds, to deliver the polynucleotide vaccine into the skin cells by electroporation.

Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, a drug delivery device for driving an electrotransport current through a body surface of a user is provided. The device includes a patch with two electrodes and one or more reservoirs storing a therapeutic agent. The one or more reservoirs release the therapeutic agent into the body surface of the user when the reservoirs are positioned over the electrodes to form an electrical path for the electrotransport current. The device includes a controller which controls a controllable power supply to drive the electrotransport current through the body surface of the user in a predetermined profile.

Abstract: Embodiments of dermalogical cell treatment are described generally herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.