Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for treating the blood of a patient, comprising removing water from the blood of patients at a settable water removal rate, wherein the position of the patient is determined and the water removal rate is set, controlled, and/or regulated depending on the determined position of the patient. The invention further relates to an apparatus for treating the blood of a patient, comprising a blood treatment device for removing water from the blood of the patient at a settable water removal rate, wherein position-determining means for determining the position of the patient, wherein the water removal rate is settable, regulatable, and/or controllable depending on the determined position of the patient.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for detection of microbial contaminants in peritoneal dialysis solutions are provided. The methods and compositions employ modified bioburden testing and the detection of peptidoglycan. A novel cause of aseptic peritonitis is provided—aseptic peritonitis associated with gram positive microbial contamination of a dialysis solution. Peptidoglycan is a major component of a gram positive bacterial cell wall and thus can serve as a marker for gram positive bacteria. In this regard, testing for peptidoglycans can be utilized to effectively prevent peritonitis in patients that use the peritoneal dialysis solutions, such as peritoneal dialysis solutions that contain a glucose polymer including an icodextrin and the like.

Abstract: A split-tip catheter for placement within the vasculature of a patient and for use in hemodialysis or other suitable procedures is disclosed. In one embodiment, the split-tip catheter includes a catheter body that defines a first lumen and a second lumen. The catheter body further comprises a split distal region, including a venous segment and an arterial segment. The venous segment includes a recess extending proximally of a nose portion; and a lateral opening in fluid communication with the first lumen. The arterial segment also includes a lateral opening, is separate from the venous segment, and is removably seatable in the recess provided by the venous segment. In one embodiment, the distal region is un-split, but includes symmetrically opposed lateral openings, as well as distal openings, in communication with the first and second lumens for providing a functional stagger for blood flow in both forward and reverse catheter flow directions.

Abstract: A tubing adapter for interconnection with a least one tubing section of a medical device, a dialysis fluid tubing system including such a tubing adapter, a medical device including such a dialysis fluid tubing system, and a method for avoiding a pressure within a dialysis fluid tubing system that is below a minimum pressure are described.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis machine including a membrane pump and a touch screen display that includes a mode-indicating portion and an operation-descriptive portion, the mode-indicating portion having a plurality of touch sensitive indicia each indicating one of a plurality of modes in which the machine can operate, the display being used to keep a patient continually informed of which one mode of at least three operating modes the machine is operating in, as the operation-descriptive portion changes to display details of a specific operation being carried out within the one mode, the indicia for each of the three operating modes always being visible to the patient while the machine is operating, the operating mode being selected by the patient touching one of the indicia on the screen.

Abstract: A kidney failure treatment system includes: (i) a dialysate supply; (ii) a weighing device; a control container coupled operably to the weighing device; (iii) a diffusion membrane; (iv) a drain; first and second pumps; (v) a first fluid conduit coupled fluidly to the dialysate supply and the diffusion membrane, the first fluid conduit coupled operably to the first pump; (vi) a second fluid conduit coupled fluidly to the control container and the drain, the second fluid conduit coupled operably to the first pump; and (vii) a third fluid conduit coupled fluidly to the diffusion membrane and the control conduit, the third fluid conduit coupled operably to the second pump.

Abstract: A kidney failure treatment system includes: (i) a dialysate supply; (ii) a weighing device; a control container coupled operably to the weighing device; (iii) a diffusion membrane; (iv) a drain; first and second pumps; (v) a first fluid conduit coupled fluidly to the dialysate supply and the diffusion membrane, the first fluid conduit coupled operably to the first pump; (vi) a second fluid conduit coupled fluidly to the control container and the drain, the second fluid conduit coupled operably to the first pump; and (vii) a third fluid conduit coupled fluidly to the diffusion membrane and the control conduit, the third fluid conduit coupled operably to the second pump.

Abstract: A device and methods for treating renal failure are disclosed. One embodiment of the device is an implantable peritoneal dialysis device. When in use, the device can have a semi-permeable reservoir implanted in the peritoneal cavity. The reservoir can receive blood waste and drain through one or more conduits, via a pump, to the biological bladder. Solids and/or a solution benefiting dialysis can be pumped to the reservoir and/or implanted in the peritoneal cavity.

Abstract: A dialysis system comprising: a sorbent cartridge in fluid communication with at least one of a patient or a dialyzer, the sorbent cartridge including a housing having a zirconium phosphate layer followed by at least one of a urease layer, a zirconium oxide layer, or a carbon layer; a storage container in fluid communication with the sorbent cartridge; a pump in fluid communication sorbent cartridge and the storage container; and a control unit in operable communication with the pump, wherein the control unit is programmed to cause the pump to pump a dialysis fluid to flow (i) in a first direction through the sorbent cartridge, wherein the zirconium phosphate layer is contacted by the dialysis fluid before the at least one of the urease layer, zirconium oxide layer or carbon layer and (ii) in a second direction, reverse from the first direction, through the sorbent cartridge wherein the at least one of the urease layer, zirconium oxide layer or carbon layer is contacted by the dialysis fluid before the zircon

Abstract: A medical fluid autoconnection method includes: enabling acceptance a pierceable connector that is capable of fluidly communicating with a source of medical fluid into a moveable holder; temporarily fixing a spike to a medical fluid pumping machine; automatically detecting whether the pierceable connector has been placed into the moveable holder; if the pierceable connector is sensed as being placed in the moveable holder, moving the holder so that the spike pierces the pierceable connector; and enabling medical fluid to be pumped from the source through the connected spiked and connector.

Abstract: An artificial liver system for treating liver failure includes a reservoir to provide albumin-containing dialysis fluid to the patient's peritoneum, an implantable device including a pump to pump the fluid from the peritoneum to the bladder via respective catheters, control circuitry, battery and transceiver; a charging and communication system configured to periodically charge the battery and communicate with the implantable device to retrieve data reflective of the patient's health; and monitoring and control software, suitable for use with conventional personal computers, for configuring and controlling operation of the implantable device and charging and communication system. The monitoring and control software allows a treating physician to remotely adjust the volume, time, and frequency with which fluid is pumped from the peritoneal cavity to the bladder based on the data reflective of the patient's health.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for supporting an operator in operating a medical device, comprising a signaling device (2, 20, 26, 9) for signaling a necessary operation of a component to be operated of the medical device, preferably by emitting a signal from the component to be operated and/or by orienting a signal onto the component to be operated. The invention further relates to a method for supporting an operator in operating a medical device, comprising the signaling of a necessary operation of a component to be operated of the medical device by emitting a signal from the component to be operated and/or by orienting a signal onto the component to be operated. Further, the invention relates to a single-use item for a medical device, preferably a single-use item for the medical device, with a component to be operated by an operator, wherein the component to be operated comprises a signaling device for emitting an optical, acoustical, and/or haptical signal.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis machine including a membrane pump and a touch screen display that includes a mode-indicating portion and an operation-descriptive portion, the mode-indicating portion having a plurality of touch sensitive indicia each indicating one of a plurality of modes in which the machine can operate, the display being used to keep a patient continually informed of which one mode of at least three operating modes the machine is operating in, as the operation-descriptive portion changes to display details of a specific operation being carried out within the one mode, the indicia for each of the three operating modes always being visible to the patient while the machine is operating, the operating mode being selected by the patient touching one of the indicia on the screen.

Abstract: A device and a method for a peritoneal dialysis treatment having several cycles include a cycler controlled by a processor. The cycler fills the abdominal cavity with dialysis fluid, and drains the abdominal cavity. A sensor senses a variable related to the draining of the dialysis fluid. The draining is interrupted when the variable reaches a breakpoint at which the variable is radically changed, thereby leaving the residual volume of fluid.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing machine, such as a peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis machine, includes a dispenser or cassette that pumps a medical fluid for dialysis or other treatments for patients. The machine includes and uses an autoconnect device for connecting containers of liquid, such as bags of dialysis fluid or medication fluids, to the machine, while maintaining the sterility of the connection. The autoconnect device removes the cap from the fluid bag and pierces a sealing membrane on tubing from the bag. This makes it easier for patients to receive treatment, especially home treatment. The cassettes preferably have tubing ports with integral spikes for piercing the membrane on tubing from bags of liquids. The ports may be staggered for sequential engagement with the spikes. Other embodiments are useful for dispensing other liquids from other types of dispensing or pumping machines.

Abstract: A device for administering a fluid includes a sterilization cassette having a shell, a fluid chamber, and an ultraviolet light transmitting window. An input tube directs fluid into the chamber. An ultraviolet light source is positioned to direct ultraviolet light through the window into the fluid chamber at an intensity sufficient to kill or render non-reproducible at least one species of a microorganism in the fluid while the fluid is in the chamber. An outlet tube receives fluid from the cassette and directs the fluid to a destination. The fluid is substantially uniformly exposed to the light while in the chamber. The cassette and light source are contained in a housing that prevents ultraviolet light from escaping the housing.

Abstract: Systems and methods for hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis having integrated electrodialysis and electrodeionization capabilities are provided. In an embodiment, the dialysis system includes a carbon source, a urease source, an ED/EDI unit. The carbon source, urease source, and/or the ED/EDI unit can be in the form of removable cartridges.

Abstract: Methods and devices for providing dialysis treatment are provided. The device includes a resin bed including zirconium phosphate, zirconium oxide, and urease.

Abstract: A medical treatment system, such as peritoneal dialysis system, may include control and other features to enhance patient comfort and ease of use. For example, a peritoneal dialysis system may include a control system that can adjust the volume of fluid infused into the peritoneal cavity to prevent the intraperitoneal fluid volume from exceeding a pre-determined amount. The control system can adjust by adding one or more therapy cycles, allowing for fill volumes during each cycle to be reduced. The control system may continue to allow the fluid to drain from the peritoneal cavity as completely as possible before starting the next therapy cycle. The control system may also adjust the dwell time of fluid within the peritoneal cavity during therapy cycles in order to complete a therapy within a scheduled time period.

Abstract: The present invention is in the field of control of medical treatment devices, in particular devices for dialysis. The invention is based on the object of making the control of medical treatment devices more flexible and more convenient and expanding the possibility of programming and outputting individual action instructions. To do so, individual frontends are kept on hand for the treatment and for the medical treatment device, these frontends generating on external devices a phase list which is transferred to and then controls the medical treatment device.

Abstract: A refined catheter for percutaneous access to the peritoneal cavity for the deliver/removal of fluid in medical procedure such as peritoneal dialysis including a flexible tubular member having a distal portion that features either a coiled segment with multiple secondary ports and/or a bolus tip with a large scalloped orifice on the side, and a proximal segment that can be oriented cephalad or caudally by means of a 90° angle and a connecting portion with a luer fitting and an inner diameter of at least 0.375 cm is maintained (3.75 mm) through the entire length of the catheter to optimize its flow rate capabilities.

Abstract: A medical treatment system, such as peritoneal dialysis system, may include control and other features to enhance patient comfort and ease of use. For example, a peritoneal dialysis system may include a control system that can adjust the volume of fluid infused into the peritoneal cavity to prevent the intraperitoneal fluid volume from exceeding a pre-determined amount. The control system can adjust by adding one or more therapy cycles, allowing for fill volumes during each cycle to be reduced. The control system may continue to allow the fluid to drain from the peritoneal cavity as completely as possible before starting the next therapy cycle. The control system may also adjust the dwell time of fluid within the peritoneal cavity during therapy cycles in order to complete a therapy within a scheduled time period.

Abstract: Peritoneal dialysis systems are provided by the present disclosure. In a general embodiment, a peritoneal dialysis system includes a cycler, a disposable cassette operable with the cycler, a supply bag connected to the disposable cassette, a supply connector, a supply line extending from the disposable cassette, a patient connector in fluid communication with a patient's indwelling catheter, a device to connect the supply connector to the patient connector, and a housing around the device. The housing includes a plurality of ultraviolet (“UV”) light-emitting diodes (“LED's”) for directing energy towards at least one of the supply or patient connectors. The LED's are configured to deliver about 200 milliJoules in a period of about a minute.

Abstract: A dialysis machine includes: a source of dialysis solution; a pump configured to pump the dialysis solution; a heater configured to heat the dialysis solution; an electrical input receiving power from a remote power source; and a housing supporting the pump, the heater and the electrical input, the housing including an electrical insulation rated for 240 VAC such that the remote power source can be either 110 or 240 VAC.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis system is provided that includes a hardware unit, a disposable unit received by the hardware unit, and a controller. The hardware unit includes a recessed area, a piston having a contact surface, a pneumatic source for supplying a negative pressure, and an actuator configured to move the contact surface of the piston into and out of at least a portion of the recessed area. The disposable unit includes an outer member fitted at least partially within the recessed area of the hardware unit and a moveable membrane positioned between the contact surface of the piston and the outer member when the disposable unit is received by the hardware unit. The controller is configured to cause the pneumatic source to apply the negative pressure to the moveable membrane so as to conform the moveable membrane to a shape of the contact surface of the piston and follow the contact surface when the piston is moved towards and away from the outer member fitted at least partially within the recessed area.

Abstract: The present invention is a peritoneal function testing method characterized by using a ratio MTACun/MTACc calculated using MTACun and MTACc as an index for a peritoneal function test, where MTACun is an overall mass transfer-area coefficient for urea nitrogen and MTACc is an overall mass transfer-area coefficient for creatinine. The use of MTACun/c of the present invention in this way enables examination of the future peritoneal function of a patient (a mechanism of deterioration in peritoneal function). To be specific, MTACun and MTACc can be obtained by computing Pyle-Popovich model. In addition, the peritoneal function testing method may further calculate a permeability coefficient for cell pores (LPSC) and an overall permeability coefficient (LPS) from Three-Pore Theory model while obtaining a ratio LPSC/LPS calculated using the LPSC and the LPS, and may use the LPSC/LPS ratio and the MTACun/MTACc ratio as indexes for the peritoneal function test.

Abstract: A dialysis system includes at least one dialysis fluid pump actuator, a disposable cassette including at least one pump chamber operable with the at least one pump actuator, the disposable cassette further including a plurality of fluid ports configured to be connected fluidly to a plurality of fluid containers, and a processor programmed to cause the at least one pump actuator to operate the at least one pumping chamber to selectively move effluent dialysis fluid to a drain container or to a sample container.

Abstract: Transfer sets are disclosed in the present patent. The transfer set provides a connection between a source of peritoneal dialysis fluid and a patient for whom peritoneal dialysis has been prescribed. The transfer sets disclosed herein are smaller and provide a more compact and convenient device by which a dialysis patient controls the flow of dialysis fluid to and from the peritoneum of the patient. The devices are more compact and convenient because they include more convenient mechanisms for starting and stopping flow of the dialysis fluid. It is also easy to determine whether the mechanism is in a closed or open configuration by simply looking at the mechanism.

Abstract: A peritoneal function testing method uses a ratio of MTACun/MTACc, calculated using MTACun and MTACc, as an index for a peritoneal function test, wherein MTACun is an overall mass transfer-area coefficient for urea nitrogen and MTACun is an overall mass transfer-area coefficient for creatinine. The use of MTACun/MTACc enables examination of the future peritoneal function of a patient (a mechanism of deterioration in peritoneal function). To be specific, MTACun and MTACc can be obtained by computing a Pyle-Popovich model. In addition, the peritoneal function testing method further calculates a permeability coefficient for cell pores (LpSC) and an overall permeability coefficient (LPS) from a Three-Pore Theory model while obtaining a ratio of LPSC/LPS calculated using the LPSC and the LPS. The LPSC/LPS ratio and the MTACun/MTACc ratio can be used as indexes for the peritoneal function test.

Abstract: In some aspects, a dialysis machine support assembly includes a platform configured to support a dialysis machine and a drive assembly configured to move the platform vertically.

Abstract: A fixable port for use in dialysis treatment, the port having a base including a first end and a second end, each of the first and second ends having an opening and communicating through a chamber, the base having a ridge to extend into the chamber, the ridge positioned adjacent the base first end; a plunger configured to slidably fit within the base, the plunger having a first end and a second end, the plunger having a first opening and a second opening communicating through a passage, the plunger having a side wall and is configured in cylindrical shape, the plunger wall having the plunger first opening, wherein the plunger first end and the base ridge are shape to cooperate when positioned to abut blocking flow through the base; the plunger having a cowl extending from the plunger second end over the base.

Abstract: A dialysis system includes a dialysis instrument and a disposable cassette. The dialysis instrument includes three pump actuators. The disposable cassette includes three dialysate pump chambers. The three dialysate pump chambers are positioned and arranged to operate with the three dialysate pump actuators of the dialysis instrument.

Abstract: A dialysis apparatus includes a housing; a first electrical contact carried by the housing; a hydrogel material located within the housing; a second electrical contact connected to the hydrogel material, the hydrogel material located so as to be contacted by a liquid flowing through the housing; and wherein the hydrogel material expands as the material absorbs the liquid such that the second electrical contact is moved and eventually engage the first electrical contact.

Abstract: A dialysis machine includes: (i) a source of peritoneal dialysis solution; (ii) a patient line for passing the peritoneal dialysis solution to the peritoneal cavity of a patient; (iii) a pump for pumping the peritoneal dialysis solution to the peritoneal cavity via the patient line; (iv) a heater for heating the peritoneal dialysis solution prior to the dialysis solution reaching the patient line, the heater including first and second heating elements; (v) a voltage input from a remote power source; and (vi) a control scheme responsive to the voltage input and configured to (a) automatically maintain a proper dialysis solution temperature for the patient via the first and second heating elements regardless of the voltage input wherein the control (b) account for an inlet temperature of the dialysis solution to the heater and (c) account for heater efficiency.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical treatment arrangement having at least three device parts, with the first device part being a device part which is not made for the treatment of a patient, with the second device part being made in conjunction with the third device part such that a treatment of a patient can be made with them, with the second device part being made movable relative to the first device part and relative to the third device part, and with provision furthermore being made that the first device part and the second device part and/or the second device part and the third device part being made such that energy and/or data can be unidirectionally or bidirectionally exchanged between them.

Abstract: A bio-compatible lumen bearing device such as a catheter formed of a polymeric material having a titanium surface bonded to the underlying exposed catheter surface. The titanium surface is employed in patients to improve bio-compatibility and enhance lubricity during insertion and removal.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis system includes: a hardware unit including a piston having a contact surface, a pneumatic source for supplying a negative pressure, a stepper motor, a controller including a processor and memory programmed to control the pneumatic source and the stepper motor, and a video monitor operating with a touch screen for sending and receiving information to and from the controller; and a disposable unit including a moveable membrane positioned adjacent to the contact surface, the programmed processor and memory operable to (i) cause the pneumatic source to apply the negative pressure to the membrane so that the negative pressure moves the membrane to conform to a shape of the contact surface and (ii) control the stepper motor so that the membrane follows the piston as the piston is moved away from the disposable unit and moves with the piston as the piston is moved into the disposable unit.

Abstract: A sensor apparatus and sensor apparatus system for use in conjunction with a cassette-based peritoneal dialysis system is described, including a disposable cassette. In some embodiments, the cassette includes a thermal well for permitting the sensing of various properties of a dialysate. The thermal well includes a hollow housing of a thermally conductive material. In other embodiments, the cassette includes sensor leads for sensing of various properties of a dialysate. The thermal well has an inner surface shaped so as to form a mating relationship with a sensing probe. The mating thermally couples the inner surface with a sensing probe. In some embodiments, the thermal well is located on a disposable portion and the sensing probe on a reusable portion.

Abstract: Visceral fat may be removed from a subject using a cannula that has an interior cavity and an orifice configured to permit material to enter the cavity. This is accomplished by generating a negative pressure in the cavity so that a portion of the tissue is drawn into the orifice. Fluid is then delivered in pulses, via a conduit, so that the fluid exits the conduit within the cavity and impinges against the portion of the tissue that was drawn into the orifice. The fluid is delivered at a pressure and temperature that causes the visceral fat to soften, liquefy, or gellify, without damaging the subject's internal organs that are in the vicinity of the visceral fat. The visceral fat that has been softened, liquefied, or gellified is then suctioned away.

Abstract: A dialysis system includes: a dialysis machine; and at least one of a blood pressure sensor and a weight sensor in wireless communication with the dialysis machine, wherein the dialysis machine is so positioned and arranged relative to the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor that the dialysis machine is discoverable by the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor when the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor, respectively, is powered, and such that the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor becomes paired automatically with the dialysis machine for secure wireless communication.

Abstract: A medical fluid machine with supply autoconnection, the machine comprising: a cassette-receiving wall; a disposable cassette held firmly by the wall, the disposable cassette including a port spike, the port spike fitted with a spike cap; a translating shuttle including a channel sized to hold a portion of a supply tube and including a fixture for releasably holding a supply tube end; a supply tube including an end configured to be releasably held by the fixture of the channel of the translating shuttle, the supply tube fitted with a supply tube cap; a cap removal device selectively positionable between the disposable cassette and the translating shuttle; and a controller programmed to (i) translate the shuttle holding the supply tube at the supply tube end towards the disposable cassette, so that the cap removal device is likewise moved towards the disposable cassette and the spike cap of the disposable cassette is engaged, (ii) translate the shuttle holding the supply tube at the supply tube end away from th

Abstract: A regenerative peritoneal dialysis system includes a dialysis fluid loop; a filter located in the dialysis fluid loop, a first portion of the dialysis fluid sent to the filter rejected by the filter and returned upstream of the filter, a second portion of the dialysis fluid sent to the filter forming permeate, the permeate being rich in urea; and a urea removing apparatus located in the dialysis fluid loop downstream from the filter to receive the permeate and absorb urea from the permeate.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to medical temperature sensors and related systems and methods. In some aspects, a sensor assembly includes a non-invasive temperature sensor to detect a temperature of a medical fluid in a medical fluid line and an ambient temperature sensor to detect an ambient air temperature.

Abstract: A fuel-cell powered medical fluid processing machine or dialysis machine is disclosed. The machine is intended for remote or rural areas where standard household or utility power is not available or is subject to interruption. The fuel cell is powered by hydrogen or other source of protons, or may instead be powered by methanol or ethanol, such as a direct methanol fuel cell. The fuel cell may be operated directly, as in powering a portable, wearable dialysis device, or may be operated indirectly, to generate and store power in an electric power storage device of the medical fluid or dialysis device. The medical fluid processing machine or dialysis machine may include circuitry allowing for use by household or utility power while also including a fuel cell for use when other power is not available. A catalytic heater may be used to warm the dialysis fluid.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dialysis machine, in particular a peritoneal dialysis machine, wherein a dialysis treatment, in particular a peritoneal dialysis treatment, can be carried out by means of the dialysis machine in accordance with predefined and/or inputtable treatment parameters and wherein the dialysis machine has at least one setting means by means of which at least one treatment parameter can be set dynamically and/or during the treatment operation of the dialysis machine. The present invention furthermore relates to a method of operating a dialysis machine.

Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a tubular member having a first connector at its distal end for coupling with the proximal end of a catheter. The tubular member has at least one external guide wire that is slidably contained inside the tubular member. The at least one external guide wire has an attachment member for attaching to an internal guide wire catch that is slidably contained inside the catheter, whereby manipulation of the guide wire causes motion in the distal end of the catheter. The catheter assembly can be articulated within an internal cavity of a patient to more completely and accurately fill and/or drain the cavity during, for example, peritoneal dialysis.

Abstract: A dialysis system includes a dialysis instrument and a disposable cassette. The dialysis instrument includes three pump actuators. The disposable cassette includes three dialysate pump chambers. The three dialysate pump chambers are positioned and arranged to operate with the three dialysate pump actuators of the dialysis instrument.

Abstract: A dialysis apparatus includes a housing; a first electrical contact carried by the housing; a hydrogel material located within the housing; a second electrical contact connected to the hydrogel material, the hydrogel material located so as to be contacted by a liquid flowing through the housing; and wherein the hydrogel material expands as the material absorbs the liquid such that the second electrical contact is moved and eventually engage the first electrical contact.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for heating a medical fluid, a method for heating a medical fluid, and a blood treatment device.

Abstract: A medical fluid delivery system includes a dialysis instrument; a disposable pumping cassette operable with a pumping actuator of the dialysis instrument, the disposable cassette including or connected fluidly to a plurality of first connectors; a plurality of second connectors configured to interface with the first connectors, each second connector associated with a radio frequency (“RFID”) tag; and electronics configured to read the RFID tags via a plurality of antennae and to identify that each of the second connectors is positioned properly with respect to a proper one of the first connectors.