УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ ОТБОРА ПРОБ, СПОСОБ ПОЛУЧЕНИЯ ПРОБЫ ЖЕЛУДОЧНО-КИШЕЧНОГО ТРАКТА ЖИВОТНОГО

Группа изобретений относится к медицинской технике. Устройство для отбора проб содержит корпус, содержащий камеру, отверстие, средство приведения в действие и отдельный отсек. Отдельный отсек закреплен с возможностью разъединения внутри корпуса с помощью удерживающего средства. Средство приведения в действие обеспечивает возможность втягивания внутреннего вещества через отверстие в камеру и одновременного выталкивания отдельного отсека вдоль корпуса до тех пор, пока отдельный отсек не выталкивается из корпуса устройства для отбора проб, тем самым создавая увеличенное пространство или объем для приема и хранения образца внутри камеры устройства для отбора проб. Средство приведения в действие привязано к закрывающему средству и выполнено с возможностью перекрытия отверстия закрывающим средством при перемещении средства приведения в действие. Удерживающее средство представляет собой крепежное средство и/или реагирующий на изменения внешней среды устройства материал. Отдельный отсек содержит ...

АКТИВНАЯ ДОСТАВКА ЛЕКАРСТВЕННОГО СРЕДСТВА В ЖЕЛУДОЧНО-КИШЕЧНОМ ТРАКТЕ

... 1. Устройство для введения лекарственного средства, включающее принимаемую внутрь капсулу, которая содержит:лекарственное средство, содержащееся в капсуле;чувствительный к окружающей среде механизм, выполненный таким образом, чтобы изменять свое состояние в ответ на положение капсулы в желудочно-кишечном (ЖК) тракте пациента;первый и второй электроды; иуправляющий элемент, выполненный таким образом, чтобы в ответ на изменение состояния чувствительного к окружающей среде механизма облегчать прохождение лекарственного средства через эпителиальный слой ЖК тракта, путем обеспечения подачи первым и вторым электродами серии импульсов с силой тока менее чем приблизительно 10 мА, частотой от 10 до 100 Гц и длительностью импульса от приблизительно 0,5 мс до приблизительно 3 мс.2. Устройство по п.1, отличающееся тем, что ток включает ток силой менее чем приблизительно 7 мА, и тем, что управляющий элемент выполнен таким образом, чтобы обеспечивать подачу первым и вторым электродами серии импульсов ...

СИСТЕМА ДЕТЕКТИРОВАНИЯ ДЛЯ РЕГИСТРАЦИИ МАГНИТНЫХ ОБЪЕКТОВ В ЧЕЛОВЕЧЕСКОМ ОРГАНИЗМЕ

... 1. Система детектирования для регистрации магнитных объектов в человеческом организме, включающая в себяпо меньшей мере два блока датчиков, причем каждый блок датчиков включает в себя один, два или три анизотропных магниторезистивных датчика, оси легкого намагничивания которых попарно ориентированы в различных направлениях,и каждый из блоков датчиков находится на расстоянии от 0,5 до 50 см друг от друга,ипо меньшей мере два блока датчиков наклонены друг относительно друга под углом от 0 до 45°.2. Детекторная система по п. 1, отличающаяся тем, чтопо меньшей мере один, а предпочтительно - каждый из анизотропных магниторезистивных датчиков имеет 4 «зазубренных» элемента, которые соединяют в мост Уитстона или в схему, заменяющую мост Уитстона, а также имеет катушку SET/RESET и катушку OFFSET.3. Детекторная система по п. 1 или 2, отличающаяся тем, что магнитное тело представляет собой капсулу или капсулу с функцией, причемфункцию выбирают из диагностической и/или функции лекарства, и человек ...

SYSTEM FÜR DIE PROBENAHME UND ANALYSE IN VIVO

Medizinisches System zur bildgestützten Diagnose oder Therapie des Körpers eines Patienten sowie von dem System durchgeführtes Verfahren

Medizinisches System (1) zur bildgestützten Diagnose oder Therapie des Körpers eines Patienten (2) aufweisend a) ein Endoskopiesystem (3), welches ein Magnetspulensystem (4) umfasst, das innerhalb eines röhrenartigen Arbeitsvolumens (A), welches durch das Magnetspulensystem (4) ausgebildet wird, eine im Körper des Patienten (2) magnetisch navigierbare Endoskopie-Kapsel (5) mit wenigstens einer Bildaufnahmeeinheit zur Erfassung von Bilddaten vom Ort eines Befundes steuert, b) ein außerhalb des Körpers angeordnetes Bildaufnahmesystem (6) mit einem Bildaufnahmebereich (B) zur Erfassung von Bilddaten vom Ort des Befundes außerhalb des Arbeitsvolumens (A) des Magnetspulensystems (4) und c) eine Patientenlagerungsvorrichtung (16), wobei das Endoskopiesystem (3) und das Bildaufnahmesystem (6) funktionell und räumlich so miteinander gekoppelt sind, dass die Raumkoordinaten des durch die Bildaufnahmeeinheit erfassten Ortes des Befundes an das Bildaufnahmesystem (6) weiterleitbar sind, um eine Bildfokussierung ...

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Überwachen der Ernährung, insbesondere der Fermentation im Pansan eines Wiederkäuers

Verfahren zur Überwachung der Ernährung, insbesondere der Fermentation im Pansen eines Wiederkäuers, bei dem man einen charakteristischen Kohlendioxidwert im Pansen und/oder Netzmagen bestimmt.

Kapsel-endoskop

Untersuchungsgeraet fuer die Magen-Aziditaet

Improvements in or relating to radio systems for supplying information relating to the interior of a living body

... 891,754. Radio receiving systems; inductive signalling. TELEFUNKEN G.m.b.H. Jan. 5, 1961 [Jan. 16, 1960], No. 512/61. Drawings to Specification. Class 40(5). A swallowable radio transmitter, for obtaining information regarding the interior of a patient, co-operates with a receiving equipment including at least two pick-up coils placed at different points outside the patient, and means for automatically feeding to the receiver signals derived from that coil receiving the stronger signals. The system follows conventional diversity reception practice.

Medical wireless capsuletype endoscope system

Medical wireless capsuletype endoscope system

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND PROCEDURE FOR IN-VIVOANALYSE ONES

MEDICINE PRODUCT FOR THE ANALYTENÜBERWACHUNG AND DRUG DELIVERY

DEVICE TO INVIVO BILDGEBUNG

Probe unit for measuring at least a state quantity of the organism of a commercial animal and method for operating the same

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Inbetriebnahme einer Sondeneinheit (1) zur Messung zumindest einer Zustandsgröße des Organismus eines Nutztieres (2), aufweisend die folgenden Schritte: a) Aktivieren der Sondeneinheit (1) aus einem ausgeschalteten Zustand in einen eingeschalteten Zustand; b) Durchführen eines automatischen Funktionstests innerhalb der Sondeneinheit (1), c) Wiedergeben eines ersten Signals (301) durch die Sondeneinheit (1), wenn der Funktionstest erfolgreich abgeschlossen wird, und Wiedergeben eines vom ersten Signal (301) unterschiedlichen zweiten Signals (302) durch die Sondeneinheit (1), wenn der Funktionstest nicht erfolgreich abgeschlossen wird. Die Erfindung betrifft weiters eine Sondeneinheit (1) zur Messung zumindest einer Zustandsgröße des Organismus eines Nutztieres (2) eines Nutztieres, wobei die Sondeneinheit (1) im Magen-Darmtrakt (3) des Nutztieres anordenbar ist und erfindungsgemäß zumindest eine Signalausgabeeinheit (12) zur Wiedergabe eines Signals ...

BOLUS WITH ANIMAL MARKING AND TEMPERATURE TRANSPONDER

Swallowable drug delivery device and methods of drug delivery

SWALLOWABLE DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHODS OF DRUG An ingestible device (10) suitable for swallowing into a lumen of a gastrointestinal tract of a patient, the lumen having a lumen wall, the device comprising: a capsule (20) sized to pass through the intestinal tract; and a tissue penetrating member (40) carried by the capsule (20) and having a tissue penetration end, the tissue penetrating member (40) formed from a solid therapeutic agent (100) comprising at least one therapeutic agent (101), wherein the tissue penetrating member (40) is shaped and configured to be inserted into the lumen wall by the application of force on the tissue penetrating member (40).

ANIMAL MONITORING SYSTEM

An animal monitoring device configured as a bolus for oral administration to reside in an animal's stomach. The bolus has a substantially inert solid body with a hollow inside space to receive the animal monitoring device. The animal monitoring device includes a radio frequency generator, an animal identification information encoder for outputting the animal identification information of the particular animal. The animal monitoring device can further include sensors to detect physiological and non-physiological animal characteristics such as temperature and a sensed animal characteristic encoder for outputting sensed animal characteristic information. The animal monitoring device intermittently transmits encoded animal identification information and sensed animal characteristic information to a receiver which transmits the encoded information as packets to a specialized computer which allows a computer user access to decoded animal identification information and sensed animal characteristic ...

Gas sensor nanocomposite membranes

A gas permeable, liquid impermeable membrane for use with gas sensors in which the membrane consists of a film forming polymer which incorporates one or more 5 nanoparticles selected to improve one or more of the following the permeability to gases, to selectively impede or exclude permeation by some gases while facilitating the passage of selected gases through the membrane, to inhibit microbial growth on the membrane. The membranes are useful in capsules adapted to be introduced into the stomach and G1 tract of a mammal which consists of a capsule shaped container 0 consisting of a wall material capable of being bio compatible with the G1 tract and being adapted to protect the electronic and sensor devices contained in the capsule. The capsule contains gas composition sensors, pressure and temperature sensors, a micro controller, a power source and a wireless transmission device. The microprocessor is programmed to receive data signals from the sensors and convert the signals into gas ...

Temperature activated vibrating capsule for gastrointestinal treatment

A vibrating ingestible capsule includes a housing having a longitudinal axis, and having a vibrating agitation mechanism adapted such that, in a first vibrating mode of operation, the housing exerts vibrations on an environment surrounding the capsule. A power supply disposed within the housing is adapted to power the vibrating agitation mechanism. A temperature sensor provides temperature information signals with respect to a temperature in an environment surrounding the vibrating ingestible capsule over a period of time. A control element is adapted to receive the temperature information signals from the temperature sensor, to identify a current temperature-overtime pattern based on the temperature information signals received from said temperature sensor, to compare the current temperature-over-time pattern to a predetermined temperature-over-time pattern, and, after the current temperature-overtime matches the predetermined temperature-over-time pattern, to activate the vibrating agitation ...

Swallowable capsule, system and method for measuring gastric emptying parameters

Packaged medicine

Provided is a packaged medicine capable of preventing electrode degradation over a long period of time, and reliably emitting a signal once ingested, even if a long time passes from production to ingestion. The packaged medicine is provided with: a solid formulation which includes medicine powder and a micro device; a container having a solid formulation-accommodating space and accommodating the solid formulation in the solid formulation-accommodating space; and an inert gas which fills the solid formulation-accommodating space. The micro device is provided with: two electrodes having different ionization tendencies; and an emission part which emits a signal using electromotive force that is generated when the electrodes are in contact with an electrolyte.

Gastric resident electronics

Gastric resident electronics, devices, systems, and related methods are generally provided. Some embodiments comprise administering (e.g., orally) an (electronic) resident structure to a subject (e.g., a patient) such that the (electronic) resident structure is retained at a location internal to the subject for a particular amount of time (e.g., at least about 24 hours) before exiting said location internal to the subject. In some embodiments, the resident structure is a gastric resident electronic. That is to say, in some embodiments, the resident structure is configured for relatively long gastric residence and comprises an electronic component. In some embodiments, the structures and components described herein may comprise one or more components configured for the delivery of an active substance(s) (e.g., a pharmaceutical agent) to the subject. In some embodiments, the device has a modular design, combining an electronic component(s) with materials configured for controlled and/or tunable ...

Receiver apparatus

In-examiner information acquisition system

Portable simplified image display device and receiving system

In-examiner information acquisition system

Optical window member for capsule type endoscope

Medical device for analyte monitoring and drug delivery

MEDICAL DEVICE FOR ANALYTE MONITORING AND DELIVERY 5 Disicosed is an ingestible, implantable or wearable medical device comprising a microarray which comprises a bioactive agent capable of interacting with a disease marker biological analyte; a reservoir which comprises at least one therapeutic agent and is capable of releasing the therapeutic agent(s) from the medical device; and a plurality of microchips comprising a microarray scanning device capable of obtaining physical 10 parameter data of an interaction between the disease marker biological analyte with the bioactive agent; a biometric recognition device capable of comparing the physical parameter data with an analyte interaction profile; optionally a therapeutic agent releasing device capable of controlling release of the therapeutic agent from the reservoirs; an interface device capable of facilitating communications between the microarray scanning 15 device, biometric recognition device and the therapeutic agent releasing device ...

Method and apparatus for chemical detection and release

A nano-sniffer is provided for detecting chemicals and/or releasing chemicals based on detection of a chemical. The nano-sniffer may be less than about 150 nanometers in size. The nano-sniffer may be a passive, active, or semi-passive nano-sniffer. The nano-sniffer may be distributed to a subjects such as a human or animal or products, for example. The nano-sniffer may include a nano RFID component, including nano antennae that may comprise one or more carbon tubes. The nano-sniffer may include a nano battery. The nano-sniffer may include an environmentally reactive shell that reacts to its immediate environment to affix or adhere to a subject. The nano-sniffer may be constructed for direct or indirect distribution techniques such as by airborne techniques for inhalation, consumption distribution for ingestion, and contact distribution, for example.

Physiological monitor for veterinary and human medical use and method

Animal monitoring system

A method of producing an animal monitoring system, comprising the steps of: a) providing an inert bolus body adapted to allow oral administration to a ruminant animal; b) locating an animal monitoring device inside of said inert bolus body, said animal monitoring 5 device including: i) at least one sensor capable of generating a signal which varies in relation to change in a sensed animal characteristic; ii) a sensor signal encoder which encodes said signal generated by said sensor as encoded sensed animal characteristic information; iii) a radio frequency signal generator which generates a radio frequency signal capable of carrying said encoded sensed animal characteristic information; iv) a power source which supplies power to I 0 said animal monitoring device; and v) an antenna which transmits said radio frequency signal; and c) locating a first magnet inside of said inert bolus body.

Capsule with strain gauge sensors to sense events in the gastrointestinal tract

A capsule for examining the gastrointestinal tract, including, a capsule shell enclosing the capsule, wherein said capsule shell is designed to be swallowed by a user to traverse the user's gastrointestinal tract internally, a strain gauge coupled to the capsule shell for measuring strain forces exerted on the capsule shell, a control for receiving the measurements from the strain gauge and responding to the measurements.

Ingestible circuitry

The present invention provides for safe and reliable electronic circuitry that can be employed in ingestible compositions. The ingestible circuitry of the invention includes a solid support; a conductive element; and an electronic component. Each of the support, conductive element and electronic component are fabricated from an ingestible material. The ingestible circuitry finds use in a variety of different applications, including as components of ingestible identifiers, such as may be found in ingestible event markers, e.g., pharma-informatics enabled pharmaceutical compositions.

System and method of evaluating a subject with an ingestible capsule

Device

The present invention relates to a sampling device. The sampling device comprises a separate compartment that is ejected creating an increased space or volume for a sample to be stored. The sampling device of the present invention is suitable for collecting a sample in an aquaculture environment, enclosed system or in the gastrointestinal tract of a human or an animal. The invention also relates to a method of orally administering the device to an animal and recovering the device to carry out analysis on the collected sample for diagnosing the health of the gastrointestinal tract and determining nutrient absorption and digestibility.

Swallowable drug delivery device and methods of drug delivery

SWALLOWABLE DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHODS OF DRUG An ingestible device (10) suitable for swallowing into a lumen of a gastrointestinal tract of a patient, the lumen having a lumen wall, the device comprising: a capsule (20) sized to pass through the intestinal tract; and a tissue penetrating member (40) carried by the capsule (20) and having a tissue penetration end, the tissue penetrating member (40) formed from a solid therapeutic agent (100) comprising at least one therapeutic agent (101), wherein the tissue penetrating member (40) is shaped and configured to be inserted into the lumen wall by the application of force on the tissue penetrating member (40).

A METHOD FOR DELIVERING A DEVICE TO A TARGET LOCATION

Capsule (60) moves through the gastrointestinal tract (62) in a first pass to generate a map of the gastrointestinal tract, and to identify a location of interest. In its second pass, capsule (60) moves through the gastrointestinal tract, and is controlled to perform a job at the identified location. Repeated localizations generate a map of the route taken by the capsule in the gastrointestinal tract (62). Images displayed on the image monitor (61) are compared with the generated map displayed on the position monitor (63) to identify the location of a pathology (72).

PHARMA-INFORMATICS SYSTEM

... ²²²The present Invention relates generally to medical apparatus and methods. ²More, specifically, the ²present invention relates to apparatus and methods for automatic ²identification of ingestion or ²other actual, physical administration of a pharmaceutical material.² ...

RUMINAL BOLUS FOR TRACKING BOVINES

A bolus is inserted into the rumen of a bovine and includes sensors for collecting the temperature, activity level, and location of the animal over time and circuitry for communicating the collected data to a server that monitors the health, kinetic activity, and location of that animal and perhaps other animals in a herd. The battery of the bolus is continuously recharged in response to the peristaltic contractions of the rumen. The bolus communicates via a local network transmission technology such as Bluetooth to a radio transmitter mounted on the tail of the animal using a tail-mounted bracelet. This transmitter may then communicate the collected data and additional sensor data to the server. Thermal cameras mounted near water troughs, in corridors to milking rooms, or on drones may be used to supplement the data collected by the bolus to provide data indicative of the health condition of the animal.

INGESTIBLE BIO-TELEMETRY COMMUNICATION NETWORK AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS

Ingestible bio-telemetry communication network and associated systems are described. The communication network can include one or more ingestible bio-telemetry tags; and a reader, wherein each of the one or more ingestible bio-telemetry tags generates an out-link signal comprising, for each bit of data in a frame, a pulse reverse keyed symbol. Multiple ingestible bio-telemetry tags can be managed at the same time by allowing the frequency of the transmit carrier signal to change, or "hop" to different frequencies so as to minimize likelihood of collision. A reader can identify the proper frequency either by a signal from the tags indicated the frequency of the next hop or, when no bi-directional communication is available, by deducing the carrier signal frequency from the start bits of a received frame from the tag and scanning for the shifted carrier signal frequency within a tolerance of the deduced carrier signal frequency.

GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT DETECTION METHODS, DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

The present disclosure relates to gastrointestinal (GI) tract detection methods, devices and systems.

GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT DETECTION METHODS, DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

The present disclosure relates to gastrointestinal (GI) tract detection methods, devices and systems.

IN-BODY POWER SOURCE HAVING HIGH SURFACE AREA ELECTRODE

... ²²Power sources that enable in-body devices, such as implantable and ingestible ²devices, are provided. Aspects of the in-body power sources of the invention ²include ²a solid support, a first high surface area electrode and a second electrode. ²Embodiments of the in-power sources are configured to emit a detectable signal ²upon ²contact with a target physiological site. Also provided are methods of making ²and using ²the power sources of the invention.² ...

METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING CAPSULES WITH INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKERS

Various methods and apparatuses are presented for an ingestible capsule that includes a digital, ingestible sensor component - or ingestible sensor - embedded into the capsule. The ingestible sensor component may be configured to activate upon coming into contact with conductive fluid, such as a body's stomach fluid. Once activated, the ingestible sensor component may be configured to perform various tasks, such as transmitting one or more signals and obtaining biometric data about the body that ingested the capsule.

GAS SENSOR CAPSULE

A capsule adapted to be introduced into the digestive system and gastrointestinal (Gl) tract of a mammal which consists of a capsule shaped container consisting of a wall material capable of being bio compatible with the digestive system and being adapted to protect the electronic and sensor devices contained in the capsule. The capsule contains gas composition sensors operable at several temperature points for a short duration, a temperature sensor, a micro controller, a power source and a wireless transmission device. The capsule wall incorporates gas permeable membranes adjacent said gas sensors. The microprocessor is programmed to receive data signals from the sensors and convert the signals into gas composition and concentration data and temperature data suitable for transmission to an external computing device.

SWALLOWABLE CAPSULE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING GASTRIC EMPTYING PARAMETERS

Embodiments provide devices, systems and methods for measuring a gastric emptying (GE) parameter (GEP). Many embodiments provide a swallowable capsule having three electrodes one covered by a coating which remains in the stomach but is degraded in the small intestine (SI). The electrodes are coupled to circuitry such that when the capsule is in the stomach, current flow occurs between the first two electrodes generating a first signal and in the SI current flow occurs between the second and now uncovered third electrode generating a second signal. These two signals can be transmitted and analyzed externally or by an internal controller to determine a GEP e.g., GE time. The patient may wear an external device configured to receive and analyze the signals to determine GE time. Embodiments of the invention may be used to diagnose gastroparesis and provide patients information on when to eat meals or administer insulin after eating.

BOLUS ANTENNA SYSTEM

A bolus (100) that communicates with an external transceiver (106) by way of radio waves (104) produced by an electrically small H-antenna (221) is described. The electrically small H-antenna (221) is connected to a conductive cylindrical antenna (223) that houses a battery and chipset that includes a transceiver (106), identification information and at least one sensor. The H-antenna (221) and the conductive cylindrical antenna (223) are arranged so that electrical currents that produce the radio waves (104) are essentially always aligned to work together. The bolus (100) is essentially a hermetically sealed capsule containing the antennas that is meant to be ingested by a cow or other ruminant animal. The bolus (100) is configured to transmit radio waves (104) in essentially an omnidirectional pattern more efficiently when the boluses (100) inside of a cow stomach than when the boluses (100) outside of the cow.

LOCALIZATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AN INGESTIBLE DEVICE

Ingestible devices are disclosed that provide very high localization accuracy for the devices when present in the GI tract of a body. Related systems and methods are also disclosed.

TREATMENT OF A DISEASE OF THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT WITH A TNF INHIBITOR

This disclosure features methods and compositions for treating diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with a TNF inhibitor.

APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD TO ADAPTIVELY OPTIMIZE POWER DISSIPATION AND BROADCAST POWER IN A POWER SOURCE FOR A COMMUNICATION DEVICE

Provided is an apparatus, system, and method for stabilizing battery voltage of a battery device while optimizing power delivered to a receiver during communication of a broadcast packet. A logic circuit is configured to receive a broadcast packet having a predetermined number of bits for communication by a controller to a receiver located remotely from the controller, determine a number of cycles in which a sampled battery voltage is either greater than or less than or equal to a nominal battery voltage over a first subset of the predetermined number of bits of the broadcast packet and performs either a tune-up or a tune-down procedure based on the number of cycles counted in which the sampled battery voltage is not equal to the nominal battery voltage for more than one half of a total number of cycles counted.

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF EVALUATING A SUBJECT WITH AN INGESTIBLE CAPSULE

A computerized method of analyzing measurements obtained from the gastrointestinal tract of subject comprising the steps of providing an ingestible capsule (20) having a sensor (22, 23, 24) for measuring a parameter of the gastrointestinal tract of a subject, having a subject ingest (118) the capsule, recording (130) measurements from the sensor as the capsule passes through the gastrointestinal tract of the subject, transmitting (131, 122) the measurements to a processor (31), conditioning (132) the measurements to provide data as a function of a time interval, plotting (133) the data on a display (32), providing a query (205, 216, 234), on the display, receiving input (207, 218, 237) from a user in response to the query, setting a marker (50-53) on the plot (40) at a location as a function of the input, and determining (238) a capsule transit time for a selected portion of the gastrointestinal tract as a function of the location of the marker.

CAPSULE WITH STRAIN GAUGE SENSORS TO SENSE EVENTS IN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

A capsule for examining the gastrointestinal tract, including, a capsule shell enclosing the capsule, wherein said capsule shell is designed to be swallowed by a user to traverse the user's gastrointestinal tract internally, a strain gauge coupled to the capsule shell for measuring strain forces exerted on the capsule shell, a control for receiving the measurements from the strain gauge and responding to the measurements.

BOLUS WITH ANIMAL ID AND TEMPERATURE TRANSPONDER

A method and apparatus (15) for remotely reading programmed and programmable memories (16-20N) implanted in livestock and particularly, ruminants, for maintaining animal identification, temperature, medical history, etc. A bolus (10) is commonly implanted in the rumen OF such an animal to prevent "Tarmumatic Retuculoperitonitis" commonly known as hardware disease in cattle. This disclosure is directed to utilizing a bolus formed from a rectilinear ferrite block magnet (22) and attaching a transponder chip (14) to the outer surface of the bolus and including on that chip a plurality of memories capable of having the animal identification on one memory, a temperature sensing device (16), a programmable memory (20) for programming medical information during the life of the animal and additional memories or specific sensing devices. An antenna (26) for the transponder operation is wrapped around the bolus magnet and attached thereto. A protective sleeve (28) may be utilized to ease implant ...

Capsule

Endoradiosonde

Anordnung zur Durchführung von Magen- und Darmuntersuchungen mittels eines Pillensenders

Kapazitive Dreipunktschaltung

Endoradiosonde

Endoradiosonde

Pillenförmiger verschluckbarer Sender für Magen- und/oder Darmuntersuchungen

ELECTROMECHANICAL PILYuLEOBRAZNOE DEVICE WITH LOCALIZATION CAPABILITIES

MEDICINAL WIRELESS ENDOSCOPIC SYSTEM CAPSULE TYPE

МЕДИЦИНСКАЯ БЕСПРОВОДНАЯ ЭНДОСКОПИЧЕСКАЯ СИСТЕМА КАПСУЛЬНОГО ТИПА

Медицинская беспроводная эндоскопическая система капсульного типа включает беспроводную эндоскопическую капсулу (А) и портативное устройство записи изображения (В). Капсула (А) включает формирователь изображения (5), микропроцессор (6) для преобразования графической информации в сжатый формат JPEG, модуль радиочастотного трансивера (13) и антенну (10). Портативное устройство записи изображения (В) включает антенну (F), модуль радиочастотного трансивера и микропроцессор (14). Система также включает беспроводной терминал (G), соединенный с медицинской рабочей станцией (Е) для обмена информацией между системой и этой медицинской рабочей станцией (Е).

APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD TO ADAPTIVELY OPTIMIZE POWER DISSIPATION AND BROADCAST POWER IN A POWER SOURCE FOR A COMMUNICATION DEVICE

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CHECKING FEEDING, FIRST OF ALL RUMEN FERMENTATION IN STOMACH OF RUMINANT ANIMAL

Method and device for measuring travel distance of capsule camera in gastrointestinal tract

Bleeding device for detecting, system and method

Encapsulated endoscope

Physiological exploring probe

RFID DEVICE ADAPTED TO BE INGESTED, SENSOR ASSEMBLY AND SYSTEM THEREFOR

APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD TO ADAPTIVELY OPTIMIZE POWER DISSIPATION AND BROADCAST POWER IN A POWER SOURCE FOR A COMMUNICATION DEVICE

... 브로드캐스트 패킷의 통신 동안 수신기에 대한 전달 전력을 최적화시키면서 배터리 디바이스의 배터리 전압을 안정화시키기 위한 장치, 시스템 및 방법이 제공된다. 로직 회로는, 제어기에 의한 제어기로부터 원격에 위치한 수신기로의 통신을 위해 임의의 미리결정된 개수의 비트들을 갖는 브로드캐스트 패킷을 로직 회로에 의해 수신하도록 구성되고, 브로드캐스트 패킷의 미리결정된 개수의 비트들의 제 1 서브세트에 걸쳐 있는 싸이클들 중에서 임의의 샘플링된 배터리 전압이 공칭 배터리 전압보다 더 크거나 혹은 더 작거나 혹은 공칭 배터리 전압과 같은 싸이클들의 개수를 결정하도록 구성되고, 그리고 집계된 싸이클들의 총 개수의 절반보다 더 많은 수에 대해 그 샘플링된 배터리 전압이 공칭 배터리 전압과 같지 않은 싸이클들의 집계된 개수에 근거하여 튠-업 절차 혹은 튠-다운 절차를 수행하도록 구성된다.

ACTIVE DRUG DELIVERY IN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

Apparatus (100) for drug (36, 106) administration is provided, including an ingestible capsule (30, 102). The capsule (30, 102) includes a drug (36, 106), stored by the capsule (30, 102). An environmentally-sensitive mechanism (e.g., coating 104) is adapted to change a state thereof responsive to a disposition of the capsule (30, 102) within a gastrointestinal tract of a subject. A driving mechanism (e.g., driving mechanism 108), in response to a change of state of the environmentally-sensitive mechanism, is adapted to drive the drug (36, 106) directly through an endothelial layer of the gastrointestinal tract. © KIPO & WIPO 2007 ...

APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD TO ADAPTIVELY OPTIMIZE POWER DISSIPATION AND BROADCAST POWER IN A POWER SOURCE FOR A COMMUNICATION DEVICE

PHARMA-INFORMATICS SYSTEM

CAPSULE-TYPE MEDICAL DEVICE

A capsule-type medical device placed inside a subject and acquiring information inside the subject. The capsule-type medical device has communication electrodes placed on the surface of the capsule-type medical device and capable of communications for outputting the information, which is acquired by the capsule-type medical device, to the outside, a determination section for determining, based on conditions between the communication electrodes, whether the communication electrodes are in a condition in which they can perform the communications, and a control section for stopping, based on the result of the determination by the determination section, operation of at least some sections of the capsule-type medical device when the communication electrodes are in a condition in which they cannot perform the communications.

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING A PHYSICAL PARAMETER OF A SUBJECT

A system for monitoring a physical parameter of a subject includes a sensor, a transmitter, a repeater, and a base station. The sensor is located within the body of the subject and is operable to sense a physical parameter of the subject. The transmitter is electrically connected to the sensor, and is operable to transmit a spread spectrum encoded signal using a digital spreading code, the encoded signal carrying information indicative of the sensed physical parameter and being transmitted to a local region outside the body. The repeater is located in the local region, is movable with the subject, and is operable to receive the transmitted encoded signal and retransmit it to a remote region outside the body. The base station is located in the remote region and is operable to receive and decode the retransmitted encoded signal.

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IN-VIVO DETECTION OF BLOOD IN GASTROINTESTINAL FLUIDS

In-vivo devices, systems and methods can be for the detection of blood within in-vivo fluids. The in-vivo devices include a gap or passage, which remains in contact with bodily fluids, and through which the fluids pass when the device is in-vivo. The devices further include illumination sources on a first side of the gap or passage for irradiating in-vivo fluids that pass through the gap or passage. The devices further include a light detector positioned on a second side of the gap/passage opposite to the first side and facing the illumination sources, for detecting light from the illumination sources that passes through the in-vivo fluids.

HIGHLY RELIABLE INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKERS AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME

Ingestible event markers having high reliability are provided. Aspects of the ingestible event markers include a support, a control circuit, a first electrochemical material, a second electrochemical material and a membrane. In addition, the ingestible event markers may include one or more components that impart high reliability to the ingestible event marker. Further, the ingestible event markers may include an active agent. In some aspects, the active agent, such as a pharmaceutically active agent or a diagnostic agent may be associated with the membrane.

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT AND ANALYSIS OF CONTRACTILE ACTIVITY

A method and system for determining intestinal dysfunction condition are provided by classifying and analyzing image frames captured in-vivo. The method and system also relate to the detection of contractile activity in intestinal tracts, to automatic detection of video image frames taken in the gastrointestinal tract including contractile activity, and more particularly to measurement and analysis of contractile activity of the GI tract based on image intensity of in vivo image data.

PORTABLE SIMPLIFIED IMAGE DISPLAY DEVICE AND RECEIVING SYSTEM

The reception intensity of a radio signal outputted and transmitted from a device to be introduced into a subject can be sensorily perceived both before and during the examination. A viewer (7) has a detection means for detecting the receiving intensity of a radio signal transmitted from a capsule endoscope (2) and also has an information means for informing the detected receiving intensity through a display section (11) by a display pattern such as a pictorial symbol (41) of the capsule. In both before and during the examination, the receiving intensity of the radio signal outputted and transmitted from the capsule endoscope (2) can be sensorily perceived by the result of the information, so that during the examination, a portion having strong receiving intensity is searched and auxiliary observation can be performed using a good reception image. It is of some help to achieve good examination.

SWALLOWABLE DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHODS OF DRUG DELIVERY

Embodiments of the invention provide swallowable devices, preparations and methods for delivering drugs and other therapeutic agents within the GI tract. Some embodiments provide a swallowable device such as a capsule for delivering drugs into the intestinal wall or other GI lumen. The device comprises a capsule sized to be swallowed and pass through the intestinal tract. The capsule can include at least one guide tube, one or more tissue penetrating members positioned in the guide tube, a delivery member, an actuating mechanism and a release element. The release element degrades upon exposure to various conditions in the intestine so as to release and actuate the actuating mechanism. Embodiments of the invention are particularly useful for the delivery of drugs which are poorly absorbed, tolerated and/or degraded within the GI tract.

INGESTABLE MODULE FOR THE FUNCTIONAL EXPLORATION OF THE DIGESTIVE TRACT

An ingestable module for the functional exploration of the digestive tract is configured like an elongate capsule (1) having a small diameter and comprising a displacement measuring means (2) delivering displacement pulses to an electronic emitter circuit (3) for transmission of data to a corresponding outer receiver, and an electric power source (4) for the supply of the circuit (3).

System and Method for Acoustic Information Exchange Involving an Ingestible Low Power Capsule

A method of communicating with an ingestible capsule includes detecting the location of the ingestible capsule, focusing a multi-sensor acoustic array on the ingestible capsule, and communicating an acoustic information exchange with the ingestible capsule via the multi-sensor acoustic array. The ingestible capsule includes a sensor that receives a stimulus inside the gastrointestinal tract of an animal, a bidirectional acoustic information communications module that transmits an acoustic information signal containing information from the sensor, and an acoustically transmissive encapsulation that substantially encloses the sensor and communications module, wherein the acoustically transmissive encapsulation is of ingestible size. The multi-sensor array includes a plurality of acoustic transducers that receive an acoustic signal from a movable device, and a plurality of delays, wherein each delay is coupled to a corresponding acoustic transducer. Each delay may be adjusted according to ...

Method for delivering a device to a target location

An autonomous device that may include for example a camera, a transmitter for transmitting a signal from the camera and a storage compartment for retaining a substance in the device. A method of delivering a medicament to a patient including imaging a gastrointestinal tract with an autonomous device, identifying a target location in such tract, and releasing a medicament from the device at the target location.

Device, system and method for capturing in-vivo images with three-dimensional aspects

In-vivo images including three-dimensional or surface orientation information may be captured and viewed An in-vivo site is illuminated by a plurality of sources, and the resulting reflected images may be used to provide three-dimensional or surface orientation information on the in-vivo site. The system may include a swallowable capsule.

Computerized information collection and processing apparatus

Computerized information acquisition and processing apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a video apparatus with image capture and digitization capability, and multiple wireless interfaces for accomplishing various purposes, including e.g., streaming the digitized video data to another device for viewing and/or storage thereon. In one variant, one of the wireless interfaces is a short range passive RFID-based interface which generates replies to interrogation signals, the replies including user-specific information.

Antenna connection unit, received strength correction apparatus and capsule endoscope system

An antenna connection unit is a unit to which receiving antennas for receiving a wireless signal transmitted from a capsule endoscope introduced into a subject, is connectable. The antenna connection unit includes a received electric field strength detector configured to detect received strength of the wireless signal according to a plurality of pieces of input power from the receiving antennas, a correction parameter generation unit configured to generate a received strength correction parameter for correcting the received electric field strength detector, which is obtained by correcting the plurality of pieces of input power and the received strength corresponding to each input power, based on a reference parameter indicating a relationship between each input power and a detection strength obtained by performing a measurement for a received electric field strength detection circuit as a reference in advance, and a storage unit for storing the received strength correction parameter.

Capsule endoscope

A capsule endoscope includes a capsule-shaped casing and an imaging unit for taking an image of an inside of an organ in a state where the capsule endoscope is floating in liquid introduced inside the organ of a subject. Specific gravity of the capsule endoscope to the introduced liquid is rho; a plane divides the capsule endoscope such that a volume ratio is to be rho:1-rho. A straight line that connects a center of volume of a portion whose volume ratio is rho and a center of gravity of the capsule endoscope is substantially perpendicular to the plane. The center of gravity is present at a position farther distant from the plane than the center of volume. A surface of a boundary of a field of view that forms an angle of view of the imaging unit and the plane do not intersect outside the capsule endoscope.

Medical-device guidance system

A situation where a medical device is outside a region suitable for guidance control thereof can be easily coped with. Included are a medical device provided with a magnet; a guiding unit (5X-1, 5X-2, 5Y-1, 5Y-2, 5Z-1, 5Z-2) that forms a control magnetic field for guidance control of the medical device, inside a prescribed control area; a detection unit (7Y-1, 7Y-2) that detects positional information of the medical device; and a computational unit that judges that the medical device has gone outside the control area on the basis of an output from the detection unit (7Y-1, 7Y-2) and calculates a direction for returning the medical device to the control area, wherein a signal-waveform calculating unit (21) stops forming the control magnetic field when the medical device is outside the control area.

Techniques for identifying molecular structures and treating cell types lining a body lumen using fluorescence

Techniques for detecting fluorescence emitted by molecular constituents in a wall of a body lumen include introducing an autonomous solid support into the body lumen. Cells in a lumen wall of the body lumen are illuminated by a light source mounted to the solid support with a wavelength that excites a particular fluorescent signal. A detector mounted to the solid support detects whether illuminated cells emit the particular fluorescent signal. If the particular fluorescent signal is detected from the illuminated cells, then intensity or position in the lumen wall of the detected fluorescent signal, or both, is determined. These techniques allow the information collected by the capsule to support diagnosis and therapy of GI cancer and other intestinal pathologies and syndromes. For example, these techniques allow diagnostic imaging using endogenous and exogenous fluoroprobes, treating diseased sites by targeted release of drug with or without photoactivation, and determining therapeutic ...

Tethering capsule system

A capsule system comprising a first capsule (16) configured to be ingested by a subject, a second capsule (18) configured to be ingested by the subject separately from the first capsule, the first capsule having an electromagnetic element (29, 30) and a sensor (22, 23) for sensing a physiological parameter of a gastrointestinal tract of the subject, the second capsule having a magnetic element (29, 30) and a sensor (22, 23) for sensing a physiological parameter of the gastrointestinal tract of the subject, the first capsule and the second capsule having an active state wherein a magnetic force is selectively provided between the first and second capsules attracting the first and second capsules while the capsules are within the gastrointestinal tract of the subject and having an inactive state wherein the magnetic force is absent, and a control (26/32) configured to selectively place the capsules in the active state from the inactive state while the capsules are within the gastrointestinal ...

Systems and methods for modular intraluminal device power transfer

Systems and methods are described for providing power transfer between modular intraluminal devices. A system embodiment includes, but is not limited to, a first intraluminal device and a second intraluminal device; the first intraluminal device including a body structure, a sensor, a processor, a data transmitter, and an energy storage module configured to power at least one of the sensor, the processor, or the data transmitter; the second intraluminal device including a second body structure, an energy storage device, and a docking structure, where the energy storage device is configured to transfer energy when the first intraluminal device and the second intraluminal device are coupled via the docking structure, the docking structure further configured to automatically decouple the first intraluminal device and the second intraluminal device subsequent to transfer of the energy.

Guidance device and capsule medical device guidance system

A guidance device includes: a magnetic field generation unit configured to generate the magnetic field; a movement mechanism configured to move the magnetic field generation unit in a vertical direction; a rotation mechanism configured to rotate the magnetic field generation unit in a vertical plane including a magnetization direction of the magnetic field generation unit; an input unit configured to input first operation information for changing posture of a capsule medical device; and a control unit configured to: cause the rotation mechanism to rotate the magnetic field generation unit to change the posture of the capsule medical device based on the first operation information; and control the movement mechanism to change a distance between the magnetic field generation unit and the capsule medical device to correct a magnetic attracting force in a vertical direction of the capsule medical device.

Medicament delivery system and process

A system and method for delivering a substance to a selected site in an alimentary canal of a human or animal includes an ingestible capsule. The capsule has a compartment for storing the substance; a receiver suitable for receiving a signal through animal tissue; a processor for storing a programmed set of instructions; and an electronic power source. The system and method further has at least one transmitter, disposed on a medically relevant site on a body of the human or animal, for sending the signal to the receiver. The receiver includes a proximity based detector for measuring proximity of the receiver to the at least one transmitter, and the processor instructs a releasing device of the capsule to release the substance upon recognition of a pre-programmed pattern of signals.

Device, system and method of displaying in-vivo images at variable rate

Devices, systems and methods for displaying in-vivo images at variable rate. For example, a system includes a processor to gradually increase a frame display rate of an in-vivo image stream based on a similarity among two or more in-vivo frames of the in-vivo image stream.

Pyloric valve obstructing devices and methods

Methods, devices and systems facilitate intermittent and/or partial obstruction of a pyloric valve. Devices generally include a support portion for preventing the device from passing through the pyloric valve and a tissue engagement portion for contacting tissue adjacent the pyloric valve to obstruct the valve. Some embodiments also include a positioning member extending from the tissue engagement portion for helping position the device for obstructing the valve. A retaining member may optionally be included on the distal end of the positioning member for further maintaining a position of the device in the stomach. Some embodiments are deliverable into the stomach through the esophagus, either by swallowing or through a delivery tube or catheter. Some embodiments are fully reversible. Some embodiments self-expand within the stomach, while others are inflated or otherwise expanded.

Systems and methods for generating electromagnetic interference free localization data for an in-vivo device

An electromagnetic localization signal may be sensed by an electromagnetic field sensor in an in-vivo device with an electromagnetic field interference that is superimposed on the electromagnetic localization signal. The electromagnetic field interference may be filtered by outputting, by the electromagnetic field sensor, an alternating signal that represents, or in response to, the electromagnetic localization signal; sampling a first (e.g., positive) portion of the alternating signal during a first sampling window or period to obtain a first set of samples, sampling a second (e.g., negative) portion of the alternating signal during a second sampling window or period to obtain a second set of samples; and calculating a number, NR, from the first and second sets of samples, that approximately represents a substantially interference free electromagnetic localization signal.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACOUSTIC INFORMATION EXCHANGE INVOLVING AN INGESTIBLE LOW POWER CAPSULE

A method of communicating with an ingestible capsule includes detecting the location of the ingestible capsule, focusing a multi-sensor acoustic array on the ingestible capsule, and communicating an acoustic information exchange with the ingestible capsule via the multi-sensor acoustic array. The ingestible capsule includes a sensor that receives a stimulus inside the gastrointestinal tract of an animal, a bidirectional acoustic information communications module that transmits an acoustic information signal containing information from the sensor, and an acoustically transmissive encapsulation that substantially encloses the sensor and communications module, wherein the acoustically transmissive encapsulation is of ingestible size. The multi-sensor array includes a plurality of acoustic transducers that receive an acoustic signal from a movable device, and a plurality of delays, wherein each delay is coupled to a corresponding acoustic transducer. Each delay may be adjusted according to ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DIAGNOSING AND/OR TREATING GASTROINTESTINAL CONDITIONS

A medical tool for use with an endoscopic capsule includes: a jaw assembly configured to maintain the endoscopic capsule at a certain position or within a range of positions relative to the jaw assembly while the endoscopic capsule is inside a bodily lumen, the jaw assembly having a first jaw and a second jaw, the first jaw having a first portion and a second portion that is opposite from the first portion; and a control configured to move at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw from a first configuration in which the first and the second jaws are spaced at a first distance, to a second configuration in which the first and the second jaws are spaced at a second distance that is less than the first distance. 1. A medical tool for use with an endoscopic capsule , comprising:a jaw assembly configured to maintain the endoscopic capsule at a certain position or within a range of positions relative to the jaw assembly while the endoscopic capsule is inside a bodily lumen, the jaw assembly having a first jaw and a second jaw, the first jaw having a first portion and a second portion that is opposite from the first portion; anda control configured to move at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw from a first configuration in which the first and the second jaws are spaced at a first distance, to a second configuration in which the first and the second jaws are spaced at a second distance that is less than the first distance.2. The medical tool of claim 1 , wherein the second jaw comprises a first portion and a second portion claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the second jaw is opposite from the first portion of the second jaw.3. The medical tool of claim 1 , wherein the first jaw has a loop configuration claim 1 , and the first and second portions of the first jaw are loop portions on opposite sides of the loop configuration.4. The medical tool of claim 1 , wherein the first jaw has a C-shape.5. The medical tool of claim 1 , wherein the control ...

High-throughput production of ingestible event markers

High-throughput ingestible event marker manufacturing systems are provided. The systems include an assembly unit configured to stably associate an ingestible event marker with a carrier to produce a product. Also provided are manufacturing methods to produce such products which include assembling an ingestible event marker with an assembly unit configured to stably associate an ingestible event marker with a carrier.

Communication System Incorporated in an Ingestible Product

The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also be associated with food and communicate data about ingestion of food material to a receiver.

Methods and devices for providing information useful in the diagnosis of abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract

Disclosed are methods useful for providing information useful in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal abnormalities as well as ingestible devices useful for providing information useful in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal abnormalities.

POSITIONING SYSTEM, APPARATUS, AND METHOD FOR WIRELESS MONITORING OF ESOPHAGEAL pH VALUE

A positioning system, an apparatus, and a method for wireless monitoring of esophageal pH value. The positioning system includes an internal transmitting apparatus and an external recording apparatus. The external recording apparatus includes a second element, and the second element of the external recording apparatus cooperates with a first element of the internal transmitting apparatus. If the external recording apparatus detects that the internal transmitting apparatus is not located in the preset region, alerting action is conducted under the control of a micro-processor. The external recording apparatus periodically detects the intensity of a signal received by a second wireless transceiver module, under the control of the micro-processor, and if the signal intensity is not within the preset range, the alerting action is conducted under the control of the micro-processor.

Power supply system and medical capsule device mounted with this power supply system

Provided are a power generation system which does not limit a patient's range of motion, is harmless to a living body, and can obtain a sufficient electricity generating capacity in the stomach or the intestines and a disposable medical capsule device which does not have to be collected after use. A power supply system is mounted in the capsule device, comprises an electrode pair including at least two electrodes provide on an outer wall surface of a capsule main body, for example, an aluminum electrode and a catalyst-supporting carbon electrode, generates power when immersed in an electrolytic solution consisting of gastric juice or intestinal juice, and supplies the power to constituent portions in the capsule device.

In-Vivo Image Acquiring Apparatus, In-Vivo Image Receiving Apparatus, In-Vivo Image Displaying Apparatus, and Noise Eliminating Method

An in-vivo image acquiring apparatus includes an operation control unit which controls a black image acquiring operation, in which the operation control unit controls an imaging unit and an illuminating unit in such a manner the imaging unit conducts an image acquiring operation in a state the illuminating unit does not conduct an illuminating operation. The in-vivo image acquiring apparatus also includes an average calculating unit which calculates the average value of pixel value in a predetermined determining area, and a black image determining unit, which determines whether the image information acquired by the image acquiring operation is the black image by comparing the average value with a predetermined threshold value. The image information determined as the black image by the black image determining unit is transmitted, as the black image information, to an external apparatus by radio.

Systematic distillation of status data relating to regimen compliance

Configuration technologies for cost-effectively monitoring indicia of regimen compliance or noncompliance in response to one or more indications of symptoms or actions or other data on data-bearing media or in wireless transmissions, such as implementing techniques for providing or preventing access or otherwise acting on or communicating incremental or definitive indicia of compliance or noncompliance.

Arrangement and method for navigating an endoscopic capsule

An arrangement for navigating an endoscopic capsule includes an external first magnetic field with a first magnetic flux density for moving the endoscopic capsule. The arrangement also includes at least one sensor coil pair outside of the endoscopic capsule for determining a position and/or orientation of the endoscopic capsule. The at least one sensor coil par includes a first sensor coil and a second sensor coil. The first sensor coil and the second sensor coil are electrically connected to one another and arranged at locations with the same first magnetic flux density.

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT AND ANALYSIS OF CONTRACTILE ACTIVITY

A method and system for determining intestinal dysfunction condition are provided by classifying and analyzing image frames captured in-vivo. The method and system also relate to the detection of contractile activity in intestinal tracts, to automatic detection of video image frames taken in the gastrointestinal tract including contractile activity, and more particularly to measurement and analysis of contractile activity of the GI tract based on image intensity of in vivo image data. 1. A method for analysis of contractile activity of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in an in-vivo image stream , the method comprising:receiving a stream of image frames from an in-vivo imaging device;measuring a property of each image frame of a plurality of image frames of said stream;classifying said plurality of image frames into frame classifications based on the measured property, said frame classifications selected from at least turbid frames, wall frames, wrinkle pattern frames and static frames; andanalyzing the properties of the classified image frames to determine contractile activity in the image stream.2. A method for analysis of contractile activity of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in an in-vivo image stream , the method comprising:receiving a stream of image frames from an in-vivo imaging device;measuring a property of each image frame of a plurality of image frames of said stream;detecting turbid frames in said plurality of image frames based on the measured property; andanalyzing the turbid frames to determine contractile activity in the image stream.3. The method of wherein analyzing the turbid frames comprises at least one of:determining a percentage of turbid frames in the image stream or in a portion thereof,determining a percentage of turbid frames that are also static frames, determining a percentage of tunnel frames in parts of the image stream which are not turbid and determining a static level of images in parts of the image stream which are not turbid.4. ...

Highly Reliable Ingestible Event Markers and Methods for Using the Same

Ingestible event markers having high reliability are provided. Aspects of the ingestible event markers include a support, a control circuit, a first electrochemical material, a second electrochemical material and a membrane. In addition, the ingestible event markers may include one or more components that impart high reliability to the ingestible event marker. Further, the ingestible event markers may include an active agent. In some aspects, the active agent, such as a pharmaceutically active agent or a diagnostic agent may be associated with the membrane. 1. A highly reliable event marker comprising:a support;a control circuit physically associated with the support to control the highly reliable event marker;a first electrochemical material physically associated with the support and electrically coupled to the control circuit;a second electrochemical material electrically coupled to the control circuit and physically associated with the support at a location different from the location of the first material, such that the first and second electrochemical materials are electrically isolated from each other; anda membrane physically associated to the support and positioned relative to the first electrochemical and second electrochemical materials to generate a virtual dipole length larger than an actual dipole length defined by the first and the second electrochemical materials.2. The highly reliable event marker of wherein the control circuit controls the voltage between the first material and the second electrochemical materials.3. The highly reliable ingestible event marker according to wherein the first and the second electrochemical materials are selected to provide a voltage potential difference when in contact with a conducting liquid at a target physiological site claim 1 , wherein the potential difference provides power for communication.4. The highly reliable ingestible event marker according to wherein the membrane is a planar structure having an outer ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING A SURGICAL SITE

A system and method for monitoring a surgical site within a body, including an elongate sensory subsystem adapted to be placed or implanted near to the surgical site including a sensor for collecting physiological data from the surgical site and a communication subsystem in communication with the elongate sensory subsystem. An elongate probe extending from the communication subsystem to the vicinity of the surgical site adapted to collect physiological data pertaining to the surgical site. A method for monitoring the surgical site to determine the early onset of complications is disclosed. A method for monitoring the integrity of an organ and in particular monitoring the integrity of an anastomosis is also disclosed. 139-. (canceled)40. A system for monitoring a site within a mammalian body , comprising:a sensing subsystem adapted for placement within the mammalian body, comprising:a substrate;at least one sensor disposed on the substrate and adapted to sense a physiological parameter of the mammalian body; anda microcircuit in operable communication with the at least one sensor and configured to communicate with a communication subsystem; anda communication subsystem in operable communication with the sensing subsystem.41. The system in accordance with claim 40 , wherein the substrate is formed from elastomeric material.42. The system in accordance with claim 41 , wherein the elastomeric substrate is formed from material selected from the group consisting of a silicone elastomer and an elastic protein.43. The system in accordance claim 41 , wherein the elastomeric substrate is formed of a material selected from the group consisting of a poly(dimethylsiloxane) claim 41 , a viscoelastic gel claim 41 , a collagen claim 41 , a porous core elastomer claim 41 , a perfluoropolyether claim 41 , a silicone-containing polyurethane claim 41 , a polyurethane claim 41 , a PFPE-PDMS block copolymers claim 41 , a polyisoprene claim 41 , a polybutadiene claim 41 , a fluoroolefin- ...

Animal Monitoring System

An animal monitoring device configured as a bolus for oral administration to reside in an animal's stomach. The bolus has a substantially inert solid body with a hollow inside space to receive the animal monitoring device. The animal monitoring device includes a radio frequency generator, an animal identification information encoder for outputting the animal identification information of the particular animal. The animal monitoring device can further include sensors to detect physiological and non-physiological animal characteristics such as temperature and a sensed animal characteristic encoder for outputting sensed animal characteristic information. The animal monitoring device intermittently transmits encoded animal identification information and sensed animal characteristic information to a receiver which transmits the encoded information as packets to a specialized computer which allows a computer user access to decoded animal identification information and sensed animal characteristic information as numeric values. 168-. (canceled)69. An animal monitoring system , comprising:a) an inert bolus body adapted to allow oral administration to a ruminant animal; i) at least one sensor which generates a signal which varies in relation to change in a sensed animal characteristic;', 'ii) a sensor signal encoder which encodes said signal generated by said at least one sensor as encoded sensed animal characteristic information;', 'iii) a radio frequency signal generator which generates a first radio frequency signal capable of carrying said encoded sensed animal characteristic information;', 'iv) a radio frequency signal receiver capable of receiving a second radio frequency signal generated by a second radio frequency generator having a location outside of said ruminant animal;', 'v) a microcontroller having a programmable module operable to control one or more of said sensor signal encoder, said animal identification information encoder, and said radio frequency signal ...

Estimation of distances and size of lesions in the colon with an imaging capsule

A method of estimating distances in a colon of a subject, including: orally administering to a subject a contrast agent, orally administering an imaging capsule to the subject, emitting radiation from the imaging capsule at a location in the colon, detecting photons that are returned from an interaction of the radiation with an inner wall of the colon and contents of the colon, summating the detected photons with energies corresponding to X-ray florescence interactions to form a first count, summating the detected photons with energies corresponding to Compton back-scattering interactions to form a second count, determining the distance from the imaging capsule to the inner wall of the colon and a concentration of the contrast agent at the location of the imaging capsule in the colon using the values of the first count and the second count.

In vivo information acquiring apparatus

A capsule endoscope includes, inside a capsule casing, an information acquiring section that acquires information on an inside of a body of a subject, a battery that supplies power, a detection section that, upon detection of introduction to the inside of the body of the subject, outputs a detection signal, a signal receiving section that receives a control signal from an outside and outputs an internal signal, and a control section that controls power supply from the battery to the information acquiring section according to the internal signal and the detection signal.

Image management apparatus, image management method and computer-readable recording medium

An apparatus includes: a storage that stores operation information including information on an operation on a display screen of a medical image and reference feature data that are feature data of the medical image subjected to the operation; an acquiring unit that acquires image data corresponding to a series of medical images; a processor that calculates feature data of each medical image; a setter that compares the feature data calculated by the image processor with the stored reference feature data, and, when reference feature data having a correspondence to the feature data exist, sets, as information related to a display operation executed when the series of medical images are displayed on a screen, the information related to the operation associated with the reference feature data having the correspondence; and a controller that executes the set display operation when image data included in the series of medical images are played back.

Device and Method for Continuous Chemical Sensing

The present invention may be embodied as an ingestible device capable of sensing one or more chemical parameters. In use, the device can continuously determine the chemical concentrations within an alimentary canal tract. An embodiment of the device comprises a housing resistant to degradation by alimentary canal fluid, a light source, and image capture device. An analyte sensor is configured to obtain at least one measurement of a concentration of analyte in the fluid. The analyte sensor comprises a sensor substance in a sol-gel material so the sensor substance reversibly interacts with an analyte of interest. In addition, the analyte sensor is configured to generate a trigger signal for controlling the operation of subsystems in the device. 1. A device for monitoring an alimentary canal , comprising:a housing resistant to degradation by alimentary canal fluid;a first light source for illuminating a first field-of-view of an environment external to the housing;a first image capture device disposed within the housing, the first image capture device positioned to capture an image of at least a portion of the first field-of-view; and a) comprising a sensor substance in a sol-gel material such that the sensor substance reversibly interacts with an analyte of interest, the sensor substance configured to emit electromagnetic energy when the analyte of interest is in contact with the sensor substance and electromagnetic excitation energy is received by the sensor substance, and', 'b) configured to be in contact with the alimentary canal fluid;, 'an analyte sensor configured to obtain at least one measurement of a concentration of analyte in the alimentary canal fluid, the analyte sensorwherein the analyte sensor is configured to generate a trigger signal for controlling the operation of the image capture device.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the analyte sensor is configured to continuously measure a concentration of analyte in the alimentary fluid.3. The device of ...

CAPSULE-TYPE MEDICAL DEVICE

A capsule-type medical device comprises a capsule main unit having functions for being inserted into the body cavity and performing medical acts such as taking images or the like. The capsule main unit comprises therein a magnet which is acted upon by external magnetism, and a spiral portion on the outer perimeter, so that rotating force acting upon the magnet is readily converted into a propelling force for propelling the capsule-type medical device. A flexible insertion portion which is long and small in diameter is provided to the capsule main unit to allow smooth progression through the body cavity, and the center of gravity of the device is placed upon the longitudinal center axis of the capsule main unit, thus facilitating smooth progression through the body cavity. 1. A capsule type medical device comprising:a swallowable housing introduced into a subjecta battery placed in the housing;a magnet placed in the housing; andan antenna placed in the housing and adapted to wirelessly communicate with a device located outside the subject;wherein the magnet is arranged on a first side of the battery and the antenna is arranged on a second side substantially opposite to the first side with respect to the battery.2. The capsule type medical device according to claim 1 , wherein the capsule type medical device further comprises an illumination device placed in the housing claim 1 , the illumination device being arranged on a substantially opposite side to the antenna with respect to the battery.3. The capsule type medical device according to claim 1 , wherein the magnet is provided with one of a permanent magnet and a coil.4. A capsule type medical device comprising:a swallowable housing introduced into a subject, the housing having an axis in a first direction; andplural built-in components each disposed in the housing;wherein a heaviest component of the plural components is positioned on a central axis of the housing having substantially a same direction as the first ...

Capsule-type medical device

The position of an antenna incorporated in a capsule-type endoscope 3 that moves in a body is estimated using a plurality of antennae, and where the distance dij between two positions Pti and P(t−1)j estimated at adjacent times falls within a predetermined value, pieces of information for these positions are related to each other and stored in a memory as connection information. Subsequently, processing for searching for a route from the connection information stored in the memory and calculating a track is performed.

DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE

The invention relates to diagnostic devices, which are capable of characterising gases and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in the gastrointestinal tract, for diagnosing diseases. The invention extends to apparatuses for use in the in vivo detection and characterisation of gases and VOCs, and to methods for diagnosing diseases. 1. An ingestible diagnostic device comprising detection means for detecting gases and/or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).2. A device according to claim 1 , wherein the device is capable of detecting and characterising gases and other VOCs present in the gastrointestinal tract in vivo claim 1 , for diagnosing disease.3. A device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection means is capable of detecting nitrous oxide claim 1 , hydrogen sulphide claim 1 , carbon dioxide claim 1 , hydrogen ethanoic claim 1 , butanoic and pentanoic acids claim 1 , benzaldehyde claim 1 , ethanal claim 1 , carbon disulfide claim 1 , dimethyldisulfide claim 1 , acetone claim 1 , 2-butanone claim 1 , 2 claim 1 ,3-butanedione claim 1 , 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one claim 1 , indole and/or 4-methylphenol.4. A device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection means comprises one or more chemical sensors claim 1 , which are capable of detecting gas and/or VOCs emitted from the gastrointestinal tract of the subject.5. A device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection means detects gas and/or VOC using technology selected from the group consisting of:resistive metal oxide; resistive mixed metal oxide; electrochemical sensors;resistive/capacitive/frequency measurement of conducting polymers;resistive/capacitive/frequency measurement of composite polymers; optical measurement using infra-red; frequency measurement quartz crystal micro-balances/shear horizontal surface acoustic wave sensors; gas thermal measurement using pellisters/calorimetric technology; and thermal measurement techniques using a thermal conductivity sensor and bio-sensor.67-. (canceled)8. A ...

System and method for determining location and orientation of a device in-vivo

A system and method for determining location and orientation of an in-vivo device, with respect to an external system in which the device is located include a frame with external magnets attached thereon. An in-vivo device is inserted into the patient's body, which is placed within the system, and the external magnets apply magnetic forces on the in-vivo device. A radio beacon transmitter is attached to the frame for transmitting a radio pulse. The in-vivo device includes an ultrasonic transmitter for transmitting an ultrasonic signal, which is triggered by the radio pulse. At least three transponders are placed on the patient's body, each transponder sending a first acoustic signal triggered by the radio pulse, and each sending a second acoustic signal triggered by the device's ultrasonic signal. At least three sonic detectors are located on the frame for detecting each of the transponders' first and second sonic signals, and a processor measures time of detection of the transponders' signals and thus calculates location of the device in frame coordinates, and in body coordinates.

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR LOCATING RELATIVE POSITIONS OF MULTIPLE PATIENT ANTENNAS

Systems and methods described herein use near field communications to locate a set of antennas attached to, coupled with, or near the patient. A signal emitted by an antenna in the set of antennas can be received by the other antennas in the set. A second signal can be further transmitted from another antenna in the set. The differential phase and/or time shifts between the antennas from the multiple signal transmissions can contain sufficient information to find the locations of the antennas in antenna centric coordinates. The antenna locations can then be used to find a location of a pill transmitter swallowed by the patient. 1. A method of locating a plurality of antennas positioned about a body of a patient , the method comprising:generating a transmit signal for transmission from any of a plurality of antennas, the plurality of antennas positioned about a body of a patient;providing the transmit signal to at least some of the plurality of antennas to cause at least some of the antennas to transmit the transmit signal;receiving a set of receive signals from the antennas, the receive signals responsive to the transmit signal;determining relative phase shifts among the receive signals;estimating relative locations of the antennas based at least in part on the relative phase shifts;using the estimated relative locations of the antennas to calculate a position of a pill transmitter swallowed by the patient; andoutputting the position of the pill transmitter for presentation to a clinician on a display;wherein at least said estimating relative locations of the antennas is performed by processing electronics.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said estimating the relative locations of the antennas comprises performing multilateration.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising revising the estimated relative locations of the antennas to account for movement of the patient.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising mapping the estimated relative locations to body ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR LOCATING A RADIOFREQUENCY TRANSCEIVER IN THE HUMAN BODY

Systems and methods described herein use near field communications to locate a radiating transponder, such as a pill swallowed by a patient. The system can be triggered to turn on and transmit an amplitude shift keyed waveform (or other type of waveform) to a set of antennas attached to, coupled with, or near the patient at roughly known locations. The magnetic field emitted by the transponder can be measured by the receiving antennas, for example, using principles of mutual inductance. The differential phase and/or time shifts between the antennas can contain sufficient information to find the location of the transponder and optionally its orientation relative to body coordinates. The system can display the location and/or orientation of the transponder and may optionally provide other information about the movement, flow, or other characteristics of pill to assist clinicians with diagnosis. 1. A method of locating a patient-swallowed pill transmitter , the method comprising:receiving signals from a plurality of antennas disposed about a body of a patient, the signals responsive to a transmitted signal from a pill transmitter swallowed by the patient;identifying phase differences of the received signals; andestimating a location of the pill transmitter within the body of the patient based at least in part on the phase differences of the received signals; andoutputting the location of the pill transmitter for presentation to a clinician;wherein at least said estimating is performed by processing electronics.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said estimating comprises performing a multilateration process.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said identifying the relative phase differences comprises obtaining in-phase and quadrature signals from first signals of the receive signals claim 1 , computing phase from the in-phase and quadrature signals claim 1 , and computing a difference between the computed phase and a second computed phase obtained from second signals of ...

SYSTEM FOR MARKING A LOCATION FOR TREATMENT WITHIN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

A device and method for mapping, diagnosing and treating the intestinal tract is provided using a capsule passing through the intestinal tract. Further, a capsule tracking system is provided for tracking a capsule's location along the length of an intestinal tract as various treatment and/or sensing modalities are employed. In one variation, an acoustic signal is used to determine the location of the capsule. A map of sensed information may be derived from the pass of a capsule. Capsules may be subsequently passed through to treat the intestinal tract at a determined location along its length. One variation uses an electrical stimulation capsule to treat and/or diagnose a condition in the intestinal tract. 1. A system for the delivery of a drug to a gastrointestinal tract , the system comprising:a capsule sized to pass through an intestinal tract of a patient;a transmitter coupled to the capsule, the transmitter configured to transmit a tracking signal between the capsule and a location external to a patient's body to track a linear position of the capsule within the patient's intestinal tract as the capsule is passing through the intestinal tract;a reference signal generator coupled to the capsule, the reference signal generator configured to generate and transmit a reference signal for identifying a time of tracking signal origination;a drug delivery device configured to deliver drug to the intestinal tract; anda controller configured to actuate the drug delivery device as the capsule is passing through the intestinal tract at a desired position in the intestinal tract based on the capsule position within the intestinal tract.2. The system of wherein the drug delivery device comprises a pump.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the drug delivery device comprises a valve or a solenoid.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is actuable responsive to an external signal.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the drug delivery device includes an RF receiver for ...

Biological Sample Collection Device and System

A biological sample collection device includes a top cover plate, a bottom portion attached to the top cover plate, the bottom portion comprising a remotely-analyzable biological sample collection portion to collect a biological sample from a body of a subject. The biological sample is to be analyzed at a remote processing facility at a later time. A fastening portion is provided on the bottom portion to affix the remotely-analyzable biological sample collection device to the body of the subject. A real time clock is coupled to the top cover plate and a memory is coupled to the top cover plate and electrically coupled to the real time clock. The remotely-analyzable biological sample collection device may further include a processing unit, at least two electrodes coupled to the processing unit, and a transbody conductive communication module. Additionally, a remotely-analyzable biological sample collection device communication system includes a wireless communication device configured to communicate with a communication device external to the patient. 1. A biological sample collection device , comprising:a top cover plate;a bottom portion attached to the top cover plate, the bottom portion comprising a remotely-analyzable biological sample collection portion to collect a biological sample from a body of a subject, wherein the biological sample is to be analyzed at a remote processing facility at a later time;a fastening portion provided on the bottom portion to affix the remotely-analyzable biological sample collection device to the body of the subject;2. The biological sample collection device of claim 1 , comprising a real time clock coupled to the top cover plate.3. The biological sample collection device of claim 2 , comprising a memory coupled to the top cover plate and electrically coupled to the real time clock.4. The biological sample collection device of claim 3 , wherein the memory coupled to the real time clock is operative to time-stamp when the ...

Edible adhesives and ingestible compositions including the same

Edible adhesives and ingestible compositions that include the same are provided. Aspects further include methods of making and using the compositions.

WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, METHOD FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATION, AND WIRELESS DEVICE

A wireless communication system includes a first wireless device configured to be introduced inside a living body and including an antenna; and a second wireless device configured to communicate with the first wireless device via the antenna. The wireless communication system carries out communication between the first wireless device and the second wireless device via the antenna at a first frequency when the first wireless device is outside the living body and carries out the communication at a second frequency lower than the first frequency when the first wireless device is inside the living body. 1. A wireless communication system comprising:a first wireless device configured to be introduced inside a living body, the first wireless device comprising an antenna; anda second wireless device configured to communicate with the first wireless device via the antenna, wherein,communication between the first wireless device and the second wireless device via the antenna is carried out at a first frequency when the first wireless device is outside the living body, andcommunication between the first wireless device and the second wireless device via the antenna is carried out at a second frequency lower than the first frequency when the first wireless device is inside the living body.2. The wireless communication system according to claim 1 , wherein the second wireless device comprises a receiver configured to receive a signal having the first frequency and a signal having the second frequency.3. The wireless communication system according to claim 1 , wherein a detector configured to detect whether the first wireless device is inside the living body;', 'a transmitter configured to transmit a signal via the antenna; and', 'a controller configure to control the frequency of the signal to the first frequency when the first wireless device is detected to be outside the living body, and control the frequency of the signal to the second frequency when the first wireless ...

Configurable Hardware Platform For Physiological Monitoring Of A Living Body

An implantable medical device is disclosed. A housing includes a hollow body forming a first electrode on an outer surface with end caps affixed to opposite ends, one end cap forming a second electrode. A microcontroller circuit is provided and includes a microcontroller operable under program instructions stored within a non-volatile memory device. An analog front end is interfaced to the electrodes to sense electrocardiographic signals. A transceiver circuit is operable to wirelessly communicate with an external data device. The program instructions define instructions to continuously sample the electrocardiographic signals into the non-volatile memory device and to offload the non-volatile memory device to the external data device. A receiving coil and a charging circuit are operable to charge an onboard power source for the microcontroller circuit. 1. An implantable medical device (IMD) , comprising:a housing comprising a hollow body forming a first electrode on an outer surface with end caps affixed to opposite ends, one such end cap forming a second electrode on an outer surface; and an analog front end electrically interfaced to the first and the second electrodes and operable to sense electrocardiographic signals;', 'a transceiver circuit operable to wirelessly communicate with an external data device;', 'the program instructions defining instructions for the microcontroller to continuously sample the electrocardiographic signals into the non-volatile memory device and to offload the non-volatile memory device to the external data device via the transceiver circuit; and', 'a receiving coil and a charging circuit are operable to charge an onboard power source for the microcontroller circuit., 'a microcontroller circuit circumferentially provided within the housing and comprising a microcontroller operable under program instructions stored within a non-volatile memory device, further comprising2. An IMD in accordance with claim 1 , further comprising:a ...

Swallowing sensor device and methods of manufacturing the same

A swallowing sensor device includes a sensor unit comprising a sensor and a device that wirelessly transmits information detected by the sensor and a board group formed by stacking a plurality of rigid boards. The board group includes a fist rigid board on which one part of the sensor unit is mounted, a second rigid board on which other part of the sensor unit except for the one part of the sensor unit is mounted, and a third rigid board being disposed between the first rigid board and the second rigid board and comprising a through-hole drilled thereon, the through-hole being configured to electrically connecting the one part and the other part.

Acquisition of Samples for Evaluating Bacterial Demographics

A gut rover traverses the guy and collects samples of the microbiome in a way that permits correlation of samples with particular locations from which they were sampled. 1. An apparatus comprising a gut rover that is configured to traverse a gut , said gut rover comprising a sampler for obtaining samples of the microbiome at selected locations within said gastrointestinal system.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said sampler comprises an osmotic sampler in which an osmotic pressure differential across a membrane drives sampling.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said sampler comprises a brine reservoir claim 1 , a semi-permeable membrane claim 1 , and a collection chamber that is in fluid communication with an inlet through which fluid within the gut can enter said gut rover claim 1 , and wherein said semi-permeable membrane separates said brine reservoir from said collection chamber.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said sampler comprises an oil reservoir claim 1 , a back channel claim 1 , and an elastic membrane wherein said elastic membrane separates a brine reservoir from said oil reservoir claim 1 , and wherein deformation of said elastic membrane increases a level of oil from said oil reservoir in said back channel.5. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein said sampler is configured to halt sampling upon having collected a pre-defined volume.6. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein said brine reservoir has a volume that expands during sampling.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said sampler comprises a thread and nodes along said thread claim 1 , wherein said thread has an end exposed to fluid within said gut.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said sampler comprises a material that changes shape in response to a trigger.9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said sampler comprises a material that transitions between hydrophobic and hydrophilic states in response to an energy input.10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said sampler comprises tentacles ...

SWALLOWABLE CAPSULE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING GASTRIC EMPTYING PARAMETERS

Embodiments provide devices, systems and methods for measuring a gastric emptying (GE) parameter (GEP). Many embodiments provide a swallowable capsule having three electrodes one covered by a coating which remains in the stomach but is degraded in the small intestine (SI). The electrodes are coupled to circuitry such that when the capsule is in the stomach, current flow occurs between the first two electrodes generating a first signal and in the SI current flow occurs between the second and now uncovered third electrode generating a second signal. These two signals can be transmitted and analyzed externally or by an internal controller to determine a GEP e.g., GE time. The patient may wear an external device configured to receive and analyze the signals to determine GE time. Embodiments of the invention may be used to diagnose gastroparesis and provide patient's information on when to eat meals or administer insulin after eating. 1. (canceled)2. A swallowable capsule for measurement of a gastric emptying parameter in a gastro-intestinal (GI) tract of a patient , the capsule comprising:a first, second, and third electrode;a first circuit electrically coupled to the first and second electrodes, the first circuit configured to generate a first input signal based on a current flow between the first and second electrodes at a first location in the GI tract;a second circuit electrically coupled to the second and third electrodes, the second circuit configured to generate a second input signal based on a current flow between the second and third electrodes at a second location in the GI tract different from the first location; anda controller operatively coupled to the first and second circuits, wherein the controller is programmed to determine the gastric emptying parameter based on information relating to the first and second input signals.3. The capsule of claim 2 , wherein the first location is the stomach and the second location is the small intestine.4. The capsule ...

DETECTION SYSTEM FOR DETECTING MAGNETIC OBJECTS IN THE HUMAN ORGANISM

The subject matter of the invention is a detector system for detecting magnetic bodies in the human organism, which comprises at least two sensor assemblies, wherein each sensor assembly has one, two or three anisotropic magnetic resistance sensors, of which the axes of weak magnetisation point in different directions in pairs, and each sensor assembly has a spacing of 0.5 to 50 cm from the sensor assembly or the other sensor assemblies, and at least two sensor assemblies are tilted at an angle of 0 to 45° with respect to one another, and in addition a method for detecting the magnetic flux produced by a magnetic body in the human organism, and the use of the detector system according to the invention for detecting swallowed magnetic bodies and the disintegration of the same in the digestive system. 1. A detector systemcomprisingat least two sensor assemblies, wherein each sensor assembly has one, two or three anisotropic magnetic resistance (AMR) sensors, of which the axes of weak magnetization point in different directions in pairs, and each sensor assembly has a spacing of 0.5 to 50 cm from another sensor assembly andat least two of said sensor assemblies are tilted at an angle of 0 to 45° with respect to one another,wherein said detector system is capable of detecting magnetic bodies in the human organism.2. The detector system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said detector system further comprises a set reset strap claim 1 , an offset strap claim 1 , and wherein at least one AMR sensor has four barber pole elements claim 1 , wherein said barber pole elements are connected together to form a Wheatstone bridge or a Wheatstone bridge equivalent circuit.3. The detector system as claimed in wherein the magnetic body is a capsule or capsule with function claim 1 , wherein the function is chosen from diagnostic and/or pharmacological form claim 1 , and said magnetic body is swallowed by the human organism claim 1 , and said magnetic body has at least one ferromagnetic ...

DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING INFLAMMATION AND/OR FIBROSIS

A method for evaluating a gastrointestinal tract of a subject may comprise using a sensor located in the subject to obtain data regarding qualities of a tissue of the gastrointestinal tract; using the obtained data, determining a measure of perfusion of blood in the tissue; using the obtained data, determining a measure of thickness of the tissue; using the measure of perfusion and the measure of thickness, determining a measure of inflammation of the tissue; and using one or more of the measure of perfusion, the measure of thickness, and the measure of inflammation, classifying a state of the tissue. 1. A method for evaluating a gastrointestinal tract of a subject , the method comprising:using a sensor located in the subject to obtain data regarding qualities of a tissue of the gastrointestinal tract;using the obtained data, determining a measure of perfusion of blood in the tissue;using the obtained data, determining a measure of thickness of the tissue;using the measure of perfusion and the measure of thickness, determining a measure of inflammation of the tissue; andusing one or more of the measure of perfusion, the measure of thickness, and the measure of inflammation, classifying a state of the tissue.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein classifying a state of the tissue includes classifying a fibrotic attribute of the tissue.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is an optical sensor located in a lumen of the gastrointestinal tract.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the measure of perfusion is a perfusion index claim 3 , wherein the perfusion index is a ratio of an amount of pulsatile light received by the sensor to an amount of total light received by the sensor.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining a measure of inflammation comprises:applying a first function to the measure of perfusion; andapplying a second function to the measure of thickness.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein determining a measure of inflammation further comprises adding ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ACOUSTIC DATA TRANSMISSION

A method of communicating with an ingestible capsule includes detecting the location of the ingestible capsule, focusing a multi-sensor acoustic array on the ingestible capsule, and communicating an acoustic information exchange with the ingestible capsule via the multi-sensor acoustic array. The ingestible capsule includes a sensor that receives a stimulus inside the gastrointestinal tract of an animal, a bidirectional acoustic information communications module that transmits an acoustic information signal containing information from the sensor, and an acoustically transmissive encapsulation that substantially encloses the sensor and communications module, wherein the acoustically transmissive encapsulation is of ingestible size. The multi-sensor array includes a plurality of acoustic transducers that receive an acoustic signal from a movable device, and a plurality of delays, wherein each delay is coupled to a corresponding acoustic transducer. Each delay may be adjusted according to a phase of a signal received by the corresponding acoustic transducer. 115.-. (canceled)16. A transmitter , comprising:a bit splitter configured to parse an information signal into a first data stream and a second data stream;a differential frequency shift keying (DFSK) switch configured to select a first carrier frequency as a DFSK data stream when the second data stream is at a first logical value or a second carrier frequency as the DFSK data stream when the second data stream is at a second logical value;a phase shifting module configured to alter a phase of the DFSK data stream to produce a phase shifted DFSK data stream;a multiplier configured to multiply the first data stream by a delayed representation of its output to provide a DPSK switch control signal;a differential phase shift keying (DPSK) switch configured to select the phase shifted DFSK data stream when the DPSK switch control signal is at the first logical value or the DFSK data stream when the DPSK switch control ...

HIGHLY RELIABLE INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKERS AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME

Ingestible event markers having high reliability are provided. Aspects of the ingestible event markers include a support, a control circuit, a first electrochemical material, a second electrochemical material and a membrane. In addition, the ingestible event markers may include one or more components that impart high reliability to the ingestible event marker. Further, the ingestible event markers may include an active agent. In some aspects, the active agent, such as a pharmaceutically active agent or a diagnostic agent may be associated with the membrane. 120-. (canceled)21. An ingestible event marker comprising:a support;a control circuit in contact with the support to control the event marker;a first electrochemical material in contact with the support and electrically coupled to the control circuit;a second electrochemical material electrically coupled to the control circuit and in contact with the support at a location different from the location of the first material to electrically isolate the first and second electrochemical materials from each other, wherein the first electrochemical material is dissimilar from the second electrochemical material; anda membrane physically associated with the support and positioned between the first electrochemical material and the second electrochemical material, wherein the membrane comprises an electrically insulative material, and wherein the first electrochemical material, the second electrochemical material, and the membrane are configured to produce a dipole having a predefined dipole length based on the membrane; andwherein the control circuit is configured to generate an electrically conductive signal along a current path that employs a body as an electrically conductive medium upon the application of a voltage potential to the control circuit.22. The ingestible event marker of claim 21 , wherein the conductively transmitted signal comprises pharmacologic information claim 21 , physiologic information claim 21 , or ...

Electromechanical Pill Device with Localization Capabilities

Various embodiments are described herein for a device, system, and method for identifying a location of an ingestible device within a gastrointestinal tract of a body. In some embodiments, the ingestible device includes a sensing unit with an axial optical sensing sub-unit located proximal to at least one end of the device, and a radial optical sensing sub-unit located proximal to a radial wall of the device, and may autonomously identify a location within the gastrointestinal tract. In some embodiments, the ingestible device includes optical illumination sources and detectors that operate at a plurality of different wavelengths, and may discern regions of a gastrointestinal tract by using the reflection properties of organ tissue and occasional particulates. In some embodiments, the ingestible device may sample fluid or release medicament based on a detected device location. 191-. (canceled)92. An ingestible device , comprising: a chamber configured to store a therapeutic agent;', 'an actuator having a first state in which the therapeutic agent is stored in the chamber and a second state in which the therapeutic agent is released from the chamber to an exterior of the housing; and, 'a housing, comprisinga detector configured to detect a location of the ingestible device in a GI tract of a subject; anda microcontroller configured to, based on the location of the ingestible device in the GI tract of the subject detected by the detector, cause the actuator to move from its first state to its second state so that the therapeutic agent is delivered to the exterior of the ingestible device.93. The ingestible device of claim 92 , further comprising a light source configured to transmit a first wavelength of light toward an environment external to the housing.94. The ingestible device of claim 93 , wherein the first wavelength of light is in a spectrum selected from the group consisting of an infrared spectrum claim 93 , a red spectrum claim 93 , a blue spectrum and a ...

SAMPLING CAPSULE AND SAMPLING CAPSULE SYSTEM

A sampling capsule and sampling capsule system are provided. The sampling capsule includes an enclosure, a sampling assembly, a mucosal flora collection auxiliary assembly and a control module. The sampling assembly includes a sample chamber disposed in the enclosure, an outer sampling port on the enclosure, a connecting tube connecting the outer sampling port and the sample chamber, and a sampling switch for opening or closing the connecting tube. The mucosal flora collection auxiliary assembly includes a vibration motor disposed in the enclosure, and/or a counterweight at the outer sampling port. The control module includes a microprocessor in communication with the sampling switch and the vibration motor. 1. A sampling capsule , comprising:an enclosure;a sampling assembly comprising a sample chamber disposed in the enclosure, an outer sampling port on the enclosure, a connecting tube connecting the outer sampling port and the sample chamber, and a sampling switch for opening or closing the connecting tube;a mucosal flora collection auxiliary assembly comprising a vibration motor disposed in the enclosure, and/or a counterweight at the outer sampling port; anda control module comprising a microprocessor in communication with the sampling switch and the vibration motor.2. The sampling capsule of claim 1 , wherein the sampling assembly comprises a plurality of outer sampling ports and a sampling cavity connected to the plurality of outer sampling ports claim 1 , and the connecting tube is connected to the sampling cavity.3. The sampling capsule of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of outer sampling ports are distributed with certain spacing along the circumference of the enclosure.4. The sampling capsule of claim 2 , wherein the aperture diameter of each of the outer sampling ports is smaller than the inner diameter of the connecting tube.5. The sampling capsule of claim 2 , wherein the sampling cavity comprises a filtering structure.6. The sampling capsule of claim 1 ...

Medical device, medical system, and program

Provided is a medical device including a plurality of storage units each configured to store a different medicine, and a medicine discharge unit configured to selectively discharge at least one of a first medicine and a second medicine, each of which is stored in the plurality of storage units, when the medical device reaches a periphery of a predetermined site of an intracorporeal site of a subject.

BIOMEDICAL DEVICES FOR REAL TIME MEDICAL CONDITION MONITORING USING BIOMETRIC BASED INFORMATION COMMUNICATION

Methods and apparatus to form a biometric based information communication system are described. In some examples, the biometric based information communication system comprises biomedical devices with sensing means, wherein the sensing means produces a biometric result. In some examples the biometric based information communication system may comprise a user device such as a smart phone paired in communication with the biomedical device. A biometric measurement result may trigger a communication of a biometric based information communication message. 1. A system for biometric based information communication comprising: a sensing means;', 'an energization device; and', 'a communication means;, 'a biomedical device includinga smart device, wherein the smart device is paired in a communication protocol with the biomedical device;a communication hub, wherein the hub receives communication containing at least a data value from the biomedical device and transmits the communication to a content server, wherein the content server processes the data value and stored data values to predict a need for an action relating to a user's medical condition; anda communication link between the system for biometric based information communication and an external node.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the external node is a medical specialist.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the external node is a piece of automated dosing equipment.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the external node is an emergency care provider.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the content server utilizes cognitive computing algorithms to predict the need for the action.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the content server transmits a targeted message through a biometric information communication system to a feedback element in the smart device.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the biomedical device is a contact lens.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the biomedical device is an organ implant.9. The system of ...

DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE

A drug delivery device for administration to a subject is provided. In some embodiments, the drug delivery device includes a reservoir containing an active pharmaceutical ingredient and a potential energy source. The drug delivery device also includes a trigger operatively associated with the potential energy source, where the trigger is configured to actuate at a predetermined location within the subject. The drug delivery device also includes a rupturable membrane disposed along a flow path extending between the reservoir and an outlet, where the membrane is configured to rupture when the trigger is actuated. Once the trigger is actuated, the potential energy from the potential energy source may be released to expel the active pharmaceutical ingredient in a jet through the outlet. 1. An ingestible , insertable , or implantable drug delivery device configured for administration to a subject , the device comprising:a reservoir configured to contain an active pharmaceutical ingredient;a potential energy source;a trigger operatively associated with the potential energy source, the trigger being configured to actuate in response to one or more predetermined conditions;an outlet in fluid communication with the reservoir; anda rupturable membrane disposed along a flow path extending between the reservoir and the outlet, the rupturable membrane sealing the reservoir from the outlet;wherein when the trigger is actuated, the potential energy source ruptures the rupturable membrane so that the active pharmaceutical ingredient flows from the reservoir via the flow path, and wherein the flow path has a first maximum transverse dimension downstream of the rupturable membrane that is larger than a second maximum transverse dimension of the flow path upstream of the rupturable membrane.2. The ingestible claim 1 , insertable claim 1 , or implantable drug delivery device of claim 1 , wherein when the trigger is actuated the potential energy source compresses the reservoir to ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POSITION DETECTION OF AN IN-VIVO DEVICE

A system and method for detecting the position of an in-vivo device based on external light: the system may include an in-vivo device configured for being introduced into a body and having at least one sensor configured for sensing light; and an ex-vivo module including at least one illumination source configured for emitting an indication light towards said body; the indication light is configured for being sensed by the at least one sensor. 1. A system for detecting the position of an in-vivo device based on external light , said system comprising an in-vivo device for being introduced into a body and having at least one sensor configured for sensing light , and an ex-vivo module comprising at least one illumination source configured for emitting an indication light towards said body to be sensed by said at least one sensor.2. A system according to claim 1 , wherein said ex-vivo module is configured for being fitted externally to said body; and said in-vivo device is configured for being introduced into said body.3. A system according to claim 2 , wherein said ex-vivo module is configured for being fitted to the skin such that the at least one illumination source is directed inwards towards said body.4. A system according to claim 1 , wherein said ex-vivo module is in the form of a patch.5. A system according to claim 4 , wherein said patch has a contact surface configured for facing the body when fitted thereto claim 4 , and wherein said illumination source has at least one light emitting point located on said contact surface.6. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the in-vivo device further comprises a communication module configured for receiving alert signals from and/or transmitting alert signals to an ex-vivo location.7. A system according to claim 6 , wherein said communication module is configured for transmitting/receiving said alert signals at least upon detection of said indication light.8. A system according to claim 6 , wherein said ex-vivo module ...

ELECTROMAGNETIC SENSING AND DETECTION OF INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKERS

Provided is an electronic device having a control device, a driver circuit coupled to the control device. The driver circuit is configured to alter conductance. A partial power source is coupled to the control device and is configured to provide a voltage potential difference to the control device and the driver circuit as a result of the partial power source being in contact with a conductive fluid. The partial power source includes a first material electrically coupled to the control device and a second material electrically coupled to the control device and electrically isolated from the first material. An inductor is coupled to the driver circuit. The driver circuit is configured to develop a current through the inductor. The magnitude of the current developed through the inductor is varied to produce an encoded signal that is remotely detectable by a receiver. Receivers to receive and decode also are disclosed. 1. An electronic device comprising:a control device;a driver circuit coupled to the control device, the driver circuit configured to alter conductance; a first material electrically coupled to the control device; and', 'a second material electrically coupled to the control device and electrically isolated from the first material;, 'a partial power source coupled to the control device, the partial power source is configured to provide a voltage potential difference to the control device and the driver circuit as a result of the partial power source being in contact with a conductive fluid, the partial power source comprisingan inductor coupled to the driver circuit, wherein the driver circuit is configured to develop a current through the inductor, and wherein a magnitude of the current developed through the inductor is varied to produce an encoded signal that is remotely detectable by a receiver.2. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the driver circuit comprises a single ended driver circuit.3. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the driver ...

GASTROINTESTINAL SENSOR IMPLANTATION SYSTEM

A gastrointestinal (GI) sensor deployment device is disclosed. In implementations, the sensor deployment device includes an orally-administrable capsule with a tissue capture device removably coupled to the orally-administrable capsule. The tissue capture device includes a plurality of fasteners for connecting the tissue capture device to GI tissue within a body. A biometric sensor is coupled to the tissue capture device for continuous or periodic monitoring of the GI tract of the body at the GI tissue attachment location. A chamber within the orally-administrable capsule is configured to draw gastrointestinal tissue towards the plurality of fasteners when a fluid pressure of the chamber is increased. An actuator can be configured to cause an increase of the fluid pressure of the chamber. Control circuitry coupled to the actuator can be configured to trigger the actuator to cause the increase of the fluid pressure of the chamber at a selected time. 1. A sensor deployment device , comprising:an orally-administrable capsule;a tissue capture device removably coupled to the orally-administrable capsule, the tissue capture device including a plurality of fasteners for connecting the tissue capture device to gastrointestinal tissue within a body;a biometric sensor coupled to the tissue capture device;a chamber within the orally-administrable capsule, the chamber being configured to draw gastrointestinal tissue towards the plurality of fasteners when a fluid pressure of the chamber is increased;an actuator configured to cause an increase of the fluid pressure of the chamber; andcontrol circuitry coupled to the actuator, the control circuitry being configured to trigger the actuator to cause the increase of the fluid pressure of the chamber at a selected time.2. The sensor deployment device of claim 1 , wherein the control circuitry includes a processor in communication with a storage medium claim 1 , the storage medium bearing program instructions that are executable by ...

LUNG CANCER DIAGNOSING DEVICE USING PULSE WAVE AND METHOD THEREOF

A lung cancer diagnosing device and the method thereof are provided. Lung cancer is diagnosed by using pulse waves having a wideband pulse width, so a possibility that a patient is exposed to radiation can be reduced, and since the configuration of transmission and reception circuits and relevant hardware of the device are simple, the size of the overall module is reduced. 1. A lung cancer diagnosing device comprising:a reception unit configured to receive a pulse wave propagated from a transmission module moving along digestive organs after being taken through an oral cavity;a time delay measuring unit configured to measure time delay information from the received pulse wave; anda controller configured to diagnose lung cancer on the basis of time delay to information according to a position of the transmission module.2. The lung cancer diagnosing device of claim 1 , wherein the controller compares the measured time delay information with a predetermined reference time delay range claim 1 , and when there is a time delay in a particular position of the transmission module according to the comparison results claim 1 , the controller diagnoses lung cancer.3. The lung cancer diagnosing device of claim 1 , wherein the transmission module comprises:a pulse wave generating unit configured to generate a pulse wave by using a clock signal;a transmission antenna configured to transmit the generated pulse wave to the reception unit; anda communication unit configured to communicate with the reception unit through a fixed line or wirelessly.4. The lung cancer diagnosing device of claim 1 , wherein the reception unit is positioned in proximity of the outside of a human body and receive a pulse wave propagated from the transmission module through an internal antenna.5. The lung cancer diagnosing device of claim 4 , wherein the reception unit includes a low noise amplifier for reducing noise of the received pulse wave.6. The lung cancer diagnosing device of claim 1 , further ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING CONCENTRATIONS OF ANALYTES IN BODY FLUID

The subject invention pertains to a novel system capable of long-term monitoring the concentration of a typical analyte in body fluid. The invention includes an untethered battery-free concentration monitor and an external data recorder to continuously measure the concentration of certain analytes and send out signals corresponding to the measured analytes concentration in real-time. 1. A remote concentration monitor system comprising:an untethered battery-free concentration monitor comprising one or more pairs of anodes and cathodes attached on a surface of the monitor and an encapsulated circuit powered by energy harvested from a body fluid through the electrodes; andan external data recorder configured to receive data from the concentration monitor.2. The remote concentration monitor system of claim 1 , wherein the monitor is present inside a subject including claim 1 , but not limited to claim 1 , a mammal including claim 1 , but not limited to claim 1 , a human a pig claim 1 , or a monkey.3. The remote concentration monitor system of claim 2 , wherein the external data recorder receives data from inside the subject.4. The remote concentration monitor system of claim 1 , wherein the electrodes are made from biocompatible materials that catalyze a redox reaction thereby generating a current once contacted with the body fluid.5. The remote concentration monitor system of claim 1 , wherein the electrodes are modified by immobilization of enzymes that catalyze an enzymatic reaction thereby generating a current.6. The remote concentration monitor system of claim 1 , wherein the electrodes are colonized by bacteria that catalyze a specific analyte that generates a current.7. The remote concentration monitor system of claim 1 , wherein the electrodes are coated with a semipermeable membrane to facilitate an electron transfer.8. The remote concentration monitor system of claim 1 , wherein the electrodes are coated with an anti-biofouling layer to protect the electrodes ...

SYSTEM, METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MEASURING A GAS IN THE STOMACH OF A MAMMAL

A gas measurement device for measuring at least one gas in the stomach of a mammal, the device comprises a housing for being located in the mammal's stomach and providing at least one gas sensor for detecting the gas. The housing is impermeable to liquid within the stomach. The device may also comprise a controller disposed within the housing and which is electrically coupled to the at least one gas sensor. The controller is arranged to periodically process an output from the gas sensor(s) to provide data indicative of the amount of the gas within the stomach. The controller can include a wireless transmitter for transmitting the data to a remotely located receiving device disposed exterior to the mammal. 124-. (canceled)25. A gas measurement device for measuring a gas in the stomach of a mammal , the device comprising:a housing for being located in the stomach, the housing being impermeable to liquid within the stomach and comprising a gas permeable portion being a gas permeable membrane for entry of the gas into the housing;at least one gas sensor disposed within the housing for detecting the gas; anda controller disposed within the housing and electrically coupled to the at least one gas sensor, the controller being arranged to periodically process an output from the at least one gas sensor to provide data indicative of the amount of the gas within the stomach, and the controller including a wireless transmitter for transmitting the data to a remotely located receiving device disposed externally of the mammal.26. A device according to claim 25 , wherein the mammal is a ruminant and the device is for being swallowed by the ruminant claim 25 , the housing of the device including a retaining means for preventing the device from being expelled from the stomach of the ruminant.27. A device according to claim 26 , wherein the retaining means comprises one or more wings retained in an initial position to facilitate swallowing of the device by the ruminant and for being ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING IMAGES CAPTURING AND TRANSMISSION RATE IN AN IN-VIVO DEVICE

Methods for capturing and transmitting images by an in-vivo device comprise operating a pixel array in a superpixel readout mode to capture probe image, for example, according to a time interval. Concurrently to capturing of each probe image, the probe image is evaluated alone or in conjunction with other probe image(s), and if it is determined that no event of interest is detected by the last probe image, or by the last few probe images, the pixel array is operated in the superpixel readout mode and a subsequent probe image is captured. However, if it is determined that the last probe image, or the last few probe images, detected an event of interest, the pixel array is operated in a single pixel readout mode and a single normal image, or a series of normal image, is captured and transmitted, for example, to an external receiver. 1. A battery energy saving method for an in-vivo device , the in-vivo device comprising a battery , a controller , a pixel array operable in a superpixel readout mode of operation to capture probe images by reading clusters of pixels , and in a single pixel readout mode of operation to capture normal images by reading the pixels individually , the energy conserving method comprising:performing by the controller,(i) operating the pixel array in the superpixel readout mode to capture a probe image and refraining from transmitting the probe image to save battery energy, wherein operating the pixel array in the superpixel readout mode comprises selecting a pixel binning scheme adapted to or optimized for an image parameter or image feature to be used for comparing probe images;(ii) if the image parameter and/or the image feature related to the captured probe image(s) do not indicate an event of interest, repeating steps (i)-(ii); and 'operating the pixel array in the single pixel readout mode and capturing and transmitting a normal image or a burst of normal images, and repeating steps (i)-(iii).', '(iii) if the image parameter and/or the ...

System and Method for Manufacturing a Swallowable Sensor Device

Methods and systems for manufacturing a swallowable sensor device are disclosed. Such a method includes mechanically coupling a plurality of internal components, wherein the plurality of internal components includes a printed circuit board having a plurality of projections extending radially outward. A cavity is filled with a potting material, and the mechanically coupled components are inserted into the cavity. The cavity may be pre-filled with the potting material, or may be filled after the mechanically coupled components have been inserted therein. A distal end of each projection abuts against a wall of the cavity thereby preventing the potting material from covering each distal end. The cavity is sealed with a cap causing the potting material to harden within the sealed cavity to form a housing of the swallowable sensor device, wherein the distal end of each projection is exposed to an external environment of the swallowable sensor device.

METHOD AND CIRCUIT FOR MUTING ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE DURING MANEUVERING OF A DEVICE

A switching circuit includes a first switch and a second switch respectively connecting a first terminal and a second terminal of an electrical coil to a positive terminal of a voltage source, a third switch and a fourth switch respectively connecting the first terminal and the second terminal of the electrical coil to a negative terminal of the voltage source, and a controller to control the switching circuit in a current control mode to alternate a voltage polarity of the voltage source to thereby control a magnitude and direction of the electrical current of the electrical coil, and to control the switching circuit in a current hold mode to disconnect the electrical coil from the voltage source and to short-circuit the electrical coil to maintain the magnitude and direction of the electrical current at the transition time when the switching circuit switched to the current hold mode. 1. A method for controlling an electrical current of an electrical coil , comprising: a current control mode of operation in which the switching circuit alternates a voltage polarity of the voltage source to thereby control a magnitude and direction of an electrical current of the electrical coil, and', 'a current hold mode of operation in which the switching circuit disconnects the electrical coil from the voltage source and short-circuits the electrical coil to maintain the magnitude and direction of the electrical current of the electrical coil at a transition time between the current control mode and the current hold mode., 'for an electrical coil connected to a voltage source via a switching circuit, transitioning a state of the switching circuit between,'}2. The method as in claim 1 , wherein operating the current control mode is to control a magnetic maneuvering force to maneuver an in-vivo device claim 1 , and operating the current hold mode is to maintain the magnetic maneuvering force at a value it has at the transition time claim 1 , when the switching circuit switches from ...

ANTENNA HOLDER, ANTENNA DEVICE, AND EXAMINATION SYSTEM

An antenna holder for accommodating antennas includes: first and second antenna accommodating sections that are separate bodies; and a belt configured to join the first and second antenna accommodating sections together and to fix the first and second antenna accommodating sections to a subject. The first antenna accommodating section includes a first antenna fixing section configured to fix the antenna to the first antenna accommodating section. The second antenna accommodating section includes a second antenna fixing section configured to fix the antenna to the second antenna accommodating section. The first and second antenna fixing sections are configured to fix the antennas such that, when the first and second antenna accommodating sections are joined together by the belt, positions of branch points of dipole antenna circuits in a height direction of the subject are aligned with one another. 1. An antenna holder for accommodating antennas , each antenna including a dipole antenna circuit receiving information about a subject from a biological information acquiring apparatus configured to be inserted into the subject , the antenna holder comprising:first and second antenna accommodating sections that are separate bodies; anda belt configured to join the first and second antenna accommodating sections together and to fix the first and second antenna accommodating sections to the subject, wherein a first antenna fixing section configured to fix the antenna to the first antenna accommodating section; and', 'two belt connection sections provided at respective end portions of the first antenna accommodating section in a stretching direction of the belt, and connected to respective end portions of the belt,, 'the first antenna accommodating section includes a second antenna fixing section configured to fix the antenna to the second antenna accommodating section; and', 'a belt insertion section, arranged at the second antenna accommodating section, through which the ...

Multi-Mode Communication Ingestible Event Markers and Systems, and Methods of Using the Same

Aspects of the invention include multi-mode communication ingestible event marker devices. Ingestible event marker devices of the invention include an ingestible component comprising a conductive communication module and at least one additional non-conductive communication module. The non-conductive communication module may be integrated with the ingestible component or at least a portion or all of the non-conductive communication module may be associated with a packaging component of the ingestible event marker device. Additional aspects of the invention include systems that include the devices and one or more receivers, as well as methods of using the same. 166-. (canceled)67. A device , comprising:an ingestible component comprising a first communication module, wherein the first communication module is a conductive communication module configured to modulate a first signal, wherein the first signal is a conductive signal communicated through an electrically conductive medium; andat least a portion of a second communication module configured to modulate a second signal.68. The device of claim 67 , wherein the second communication module is a non-conductive communication module.69. The device of claim 67 , wherein the ingestible component comprises a partial power source comprising a pair of electrodes fabricated from dissimilar materials.70. The device of claim 67 , comprising a second power source electrically coupled to the second communication module.71. The device of claim 67 , wherein the ingestible component comprises the second communication module.72. The device of claim 67 , wherein at least a portion of the second communication module is configured to be separable from the ingestible component in a manner that does not compromise the function of the conductive communication module.73. The device of claim 67 , wherein the ingestible component comprises an active pharmaceutical agent.74. The device of claim 67 , wherein the ingestible component comprises a ...

Highly reliable ingestible event markers and methods for using the same

Ingestible event markers having high reliability are provided. Aspects of the ingestible event markers include a support, a control circuit, a first electrochemical material, a second electrochemical material and a membrane. In addition, the ingestible event markers may include one or more components that impart high reliability to the ingestible event marker. Further, the ingestible event markers may include an active agent. In some aspects, the active agent, such as a pharmaceutically active agent or a diagnostic agent may be associated with the membrane.

Ingestible Event Marker Systems

Ingestible event marker systems that include an ingestible event marker (i.e., an IEM) and a personal signal receiver are provided. Embodiments of the IEM include an identifier, which may or may not be present in a physiologically acceptable carrier. The identifier is characterized by being activated upon contact with a target internal physiological site of a body, such as digestive tract internal target site. The personal signal receiver is configured to be associated with a physiological location, e.g., inside of or on the body, and to receive a signal the IEM. During use, the IEM broadcasts a signal which is received by the personal signal receiver.

INGESTIBLE SENSOR, SENSING METHOD, AND FOOD

An ingestible sensor according to an embodiment includes a sensor, a detector, and a transmitter and to be mixed with food and discharged without being digested or absorbed also when entering the inside of a body. The sensor is configured to detect a predetermined substance disposed inside the body. The detector is configured to detect whether or not the sensor has entered the inside of the body. The transmitter is configured to transmit information of the predetermined substance detected by the sensor to a communication device disposed outside the body based on a detection of an entrance of the sensor into the inside of the body that is made by the detector. 111-. (canceled)12. A swallowable sensor to be discharged without being digested or absorbed also when entering inside of a body , the swallowable sensor comprising:a sensor configured to detect predetermined biological information on the inside of the body;a detector configured to detect whether the sensor has entered the inside of the body; anda transmitter configured to transmit the predetermined biological information detected by the sensor to a communication device disposed outside the body based on a detection of an entrance of the sensor into the inside of the body that is made by the detector,wherein the sensor, when detected by the detector as being entered inside the body, starts sensing the predetermined biological information on the inside of the body and detects the predetermined biological information on the inside of the body by decreasing frequency of the sensing in accordance with a time elapsed after entering the body.13. The swallowable sensor according to claim 12 , wherein the decrease in the frequency of the sensing is achieved through each part of the body which the swallowable sensor passes.14. The swallowable sensor according to claim 12 , wherein the decrease in the frequency of the sensing is determined for each of a stomach claim 12 , a small intestine claim 12 , and a large ...

SYSTEM FOR MARKING A LOCATION FOR TREATMENT WITHIN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

A device and method for mapping, diagnosing and treating the intestinal tract is provided using a capsule passing through the intestinal tract. Further, a capsule tracking system is provided for tracking a capsule's location along the length of an intestinal tract as various treatment and/or sensing modalities are employed. In one variation, an acoustic signal is used to determine the location of the capsule. A map of sensed information may be derived from the pass of a capsule. Capsules may be subsequently passed through to treat the intestinal tract at a determined location along its length. One variation uses an electrical stimulation capsule to treat and/or diagnose a condition in the intestinal tract. 1. A system for the controlled delivery of a drug to a selected position in the gastrointestinal tract of a patient , the system comprising:a capsule sized to pass through an intestinal tract of a patient;a transmitter coupled to the capsule, the transmitter configured to transmit a tracking signal between the capsule and a location external to a patient's body to track a position of the capsule within the patient's intestinal tract as the capsule is passing through the intestinal tract;a drug delivery device configured to deliver the drug to the intestinal tract of the patient in response to an actuation signal; anda controller configured to generate the actuation signal to actuate the drug delivery device as the capsule is passing through the intestinal tract at a desired position in the intestinal tract based on the capsule position within the intestinal tract.2. The system of wherein the drug delivery device comprises a pump.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the drug delivery device comprises a valve or a solenoid.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is actuable responsive to an external signal.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the drug delivery device includes an RF receiver for receiving the external signal claim 4 , the RF receiver operably ...

TREATMENT OF A DISEASE OF THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT WITH AN IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT

This disclosure features methods and compositions for treating diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with an immunosuppressant. 1383.-. (canceled)384. A method of treating ulcerative colitis in a subject , the method comprising: an ingestible housing comprising a reservoir, the reservoir containing a pharmaceutical formulation comprising a therapeutically effective amount of an immunosuppressant;', 'a release mechanism having a closed state wherein the pharmaceutical formulation is retained in the reservoir and an open state which allows for the release of the pharmaceutical formulation from the reservoir to the exterior of the ingestible device;', 'an actuator which controls the transition of the release mechanism from the closed state to the open state;', "a detector for detecting a location of the ingestible device in the subject's gastrointestinal (GI) tract; and", 'a processor coupled to the detector and to the actuator, wherein the processor triggers the actuator to cause the release mechanism to transition from the closed state to the open state when the ingestible device is located in the cecum, wherein the cecum has been predetermined to be proximal to one or more disease sites,', 'thereby releasing the pharmaceutical formulation comprising the immunosuppressant from the ingestible device when the ingestible device is located in the cecum of the subject., 'orally administering to the subject an ingestible device comprising385. The method of claim 384 , wherein the one or more disease sites is in the colon.386. The method of claim 384 , wherein the immunosuppressant is cyclosporine; or a generic equivalent thereof.387. The method of claim 384 , wherein the immunosuppressant is tacrolimus; or a generic equivalent thereof.388. The method of claim 384 , wherein the ingestible device further comprises one or more machine-readable hardware storage devices that stores instructions that are executable by the processor to determine that the ingestible device is in ...

MEDICAL DEVICE FOR ANALYTE MONITORING AND DRUG DELIVERY

The invention relates to an ingestible, implantable or wearable medical device comprising a microarray which comprises a bioactive agent capable of interacting with a disease marker biological analyte; a reservoir which comprises at least one therapeutic agent and is capable of releasing the therapeutic agent(s) from the medical device; and a plurality of microchips comprising a microarray scanning device capable of obtaining physical parameter data of an interaction between the disease marker biological analyte with the bioactive agent; a biometric recognition device capable of comparing the physical parameter data with an analyte interaction profile; optionally a therapeutic agent releasing device capable of controlling release of the therapeutic agent from the reservoirs; an interface device capable of facilitating communications between the microarray scanning device, biometric recognition device and the therapeutic agent releasing device; and an energy source to power the medical device. Specifically, the invention relates to a medical device capable of detecting an analyte in a bodily fluid comprising at least one microneedle capable of obtaining a sample of a bodily fluid, a first microchannel through which the sample flows and is in fluid communication with the at least one microneedle, a second microchannel in fluid communication with the first microchannel, through which a buffer flows, wherein the second channel comprises a microarray with a bioactive agent, a microarray scanning device to detect an interaction between the bioactive agent and the analyte in the bodily fluid; and an interface device. 19-. (canceled)10. An ingestible medical device comprising:a microchip enclosed in said ingestible medical device,wherein said device when ingested by a subject is configured to interact with a gastric fluid, and wherein said device is configured to measure one or more physiological conditions of the subjectsaid microchip comprising an interface device that is ...

Light source device for endoscope and endoscope system

A band limiter comprises an optical filter, which has first and second filter sections, and a filter moving mechanism for moving the optical filter to place the first or second filter section in a light path of blue light. A passband where transmittance of the first filter section is greater than or equal to half a peak value thereof is defined as a first transmission band. The first transmission band includes a peak wavelength, at which an absorption coefficient of hemoglobin is at its peak. A passband where transmittance of the second filter section is greater than or equal to half a peak value thereof is defined as a second transmission band. The second transmission band does not include an isosbestic wavelength (in the order of 450 nm), at which an absorption coefficient of oxyhemoglobin equals or crosses an absorption coefficient of deoxyhemoglobin.

LISINOPRIL COMPOSITIONS WITH AN INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKER

Provided herein are compositions for the ingestible administration of lisinopril. In some embodiments the compositions comprise lisinopril and silicon. In some embodiments, the compositions comprise lisinopril, silicon, magnesium metal, and copper (I) chloride. Also provided herein are apparatuses comprising the compositions provided herein. Also provided herein are methods for using the compositions and apparatuses provided herein. 1. A granule comprising:lisinopril;dicalcium phosphate;mannitol; andpregelatinized starch.2. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule further comprises iron oxide yellow or water claim 1 , or both.3. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 8% to about 14% w/w lisinopril.4. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 10% to about 12% w/w lisinopril.5. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 10.3% to about 11.3% w/w lisinopril.6. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 10.3% w/w lisinopril.7. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 11.2% w/w lisinopril.8. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises about 40 mg of lisinopril.9. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 14% to about 18% w/w dicalcium phosphate.10. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 15% to about 17% w/w dicalcium phosphate.11. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 15.4% to about 16.9% w/w dicalcium phosphate.12. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 15.5% w/w dicalcium phosphate.13. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 16.9% w/w dicalcium phosphate.14. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 55% to about 65% w/w mannitol.15. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 57% to about 62% w/w mannitol.16. The granule of claim 1 , wherein the granule comprises about 58% to about 61% w/w mannitol.17. The granule ...

POSITION ESTIMATION OF IMAGING CAPSULE IN GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

A system for estimating the position of an imaging capsule that examines the gastrointestinal tract of a user, including an imaging capsule for examining inside the user; and a recorder for communicating with the imaging capsule from outside the user. The imaging capsule includes a controller for controlling functionality of the imaging capsule, a transceiver for communication with the recorder and a coil for transmission of electromagnetic signals. The recorder includes a controller for controlling functionality of the recorder, a transceiver for communication with the imaging capsule and a coil for receiving electromagnetic signals from the coil of the imaging capsule. Wherein the recorder determines the location of the imaging capsule based on measurements of the amplitude of the electromagnetic signals transmitted by the coil in the imaging capsule. 1. A system for estimating the position of an imaging capsule that examines the gastrointestinal tract of a user , comprising:an imaging capsule for examining inside the user; anda recorder for communicating with the imaging capsule from outside the user; a controller for controlling functionality of the imaging capsule;', 'a transceiver for communication with the recorder;', 'a coil for transmission of electromagnetic signals,, 'the imaging capsule, comprising a controller for controlling functionality of the recorder;', 'a transceiver for communication with the imaging capsule;', 'a coil for receiving electromagnetic signals from the coil of the imaging capsule;, 'the recorder comprisingwherein the recorder determines the location of the imaging capsule based on measurements of the amplitude of the electromagnetic signals transmitted by the coil in the imaging capsule.2. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the coil in the imaging capsule is a 3D coil having windings in three orthogonal directions that transmit simultaneously in three different frequencies.3. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the coil in ...

SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES ADDRESSING THE GASTRO-INTESTINAL TRACT

Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to an implantable device, systems, and methods related thereto, that includes at least one sensor and/or therapeutic agent delivery depot. In one embodiment, the system and device include means for detecting general or specific biological agents in a subject's intestinal tract, and utilizing the information from the detection for determining the timing and content of any therapeutic treatment needed by the subject. 1. A device , comprising:at least one reversibly inflatable bladder less than or approximately equal to 10 mm in size;at least one depot including one or more therapeutic or nutraceutical agent reservoirs;at least one activatable switch operably coupled to at least one actuator configured to deflate the reversibly inflatable bladder upon activation of the switch; andat least one sensor including one or more of a camera, ultrasound device, optical sensor, strain sensor, level sensor, or pressure sensor.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the reversibly inflatable bladder includes the depot.3. (canceled)4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the reversibly inflatable bladder is configured claim 1 , when at least partially inflated claim 1 , to secure the device within a lumen of the gastro-intestinal tract of a subject's body.5. (canceled)6. (canceled)7. The device of claim 1 , wherein activation of the switch includes activation by at least one of a timer claim 1 , external command claim 1 , or information from the at least one sensor.8. The device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more therapeutic or nutraceutical agent reservoirs include at least one valve.9. The device of claim 8 , wherein the at least one valve is operably coupled to control circuitry and configured to dispense at least one therapeutic or nutraceutical agent from the one or more therapeutic or nutraceutical agent reservoirs.10. The device of claim 1 , wherein each therapeutic or nutraceutical agent reservoir includes a different agent than at least ...

SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES ADDRESSING THE GASTRO-INTESTINAL TRACT

Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to an implantable device, systems, and methods related thereto, that includes at least one sensor and/or therapeutic agent delivery depot. In one embodiment, the system and device include means for detecting general or specific biological agents in a subject's intestinal tract, and utilizing the information from the detection for determining the timing and content of any therapeutic treatment needed by the subject. 1. A device , comprising:at least one housing unit with one or more intestinal wall-attachment components;at least one depot including one or more therapeutic or nutraceutical agents;at least one sensor; andat least one switch operably coupled to the one or more intestinal wall-attachment components and configured to detach the device from the intestinal wall upon activation of the switch.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one housing unit includes at least one of a fluid claim 1 , gel claim 1 , synthetic polymer claim 1 , foam claim 1 , hydrogel claim 1 , suspension claim 1 , sol claim 1 , gel-sol claim 1 , silk claim 1 , microparticle suspension claim 1 , or nanoparticle suspension.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one housing unit includes at least one anti-inflammatory composition.45.-. (canceled)6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the intestinal wall-attachment component includes at least one of mechanical or chemical means for attachment to the intestinal wall of a subject.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the intestinal wall-attachment component includes at least one of a screw claim 1 , suture claim 1 , staple claim 1 , clip claim 1 , anchor claim 1 , hook claim 1 , brace claim 1 , reversibly inflatable bladder claim 1 , projection claim 1 , umbrella connector claim 1 , barb claim 1 , latch claim 1 , or adhesive.8. The device of claim 7 , wherein the reversibly inflatable bladder is configured claim 7 , when at least partially inflated claim 7 , to secure the device within a ...

SWALLOWABLE, FOOD-BASED, DIGESTIBLE WIRELESS DEVICE FOR MEASURING GASTRIC pH

Systems and methods are presented for a swallowable pH sensor made entirely of edible and digestible materials. A substrate is provided and an electrical circuit pattern is printed on a top surface of the substrate. The electrical circuit pattern includes a plurality of interdigitated electrodes and an antenna portion. The substrate is rolled into a cylindrical form such that the interdigitated electrodes are positioned on an outermost layer of the rolled substrate. The rolling of the substrate also causes the antenna portion of the electrical circuit pattern to form into a coil shape. 19-. (canceled)10. A method of assembling a swallowable pH sensor , the method comprising:providing a substrate; a plurality of interdigitated electrodes, and', 'an antenna portion; and, 'printing an electrical circuit pattern on a top surface of the substrate, the electrical circuit pattern including'}rolling the substrate into a cylindrical form, wherein the plurality of interdigitated electrodes are positioned on an outermost layer of the rolled substrate and wherein the rolling of the substrate causes the antenna portion of the electrical circuit pattern to form a coil shape.11. The method of claim 10 , wherein providing a substrate includes providing a substrate formed of a gelatin-based material that includes a plasticizer to increase the flexibility of the substrate.12. The method of claim 10 , wherein printing the electrical circuit pattern on the top surface of the substrate includes using a gold material to print the electrical circuit pattern on the top surface of the substrate.13. The method of claim 10 , further comprising coating at least part of the top surface of the substrate with a coating layer after printing the electrical circuit pattern on the top surface of the substrate.14. The method of wherein the coating layer acts as an adhesive to couple the top surface of the substrate to the bottom surface of the substrate in layers as the substrate is rolled into the ...

ELECTROMECHANICAL INGESTIBLE DEVICE FOR DELIVERY OF A DISPENSABLE SUBSTANCE

Ingestible devices capable of delivering a dispensable substance, such as, for example, a therapeutic agent, as well as related components, systems and methods, are disclosed. A removably attachable storage reservoir configured to be used with an ingestible device and capable of storing dispensable substance, such as, for example, a therapeutic agent, as well as related components, systems and methods, are also disclosed. 1138.-. (canceled)139. An ingestible device , comprising:a storage reservoir configured to store a dispensable substance; anda force generator component configured so that, when the force generator generates a force, the dispensable substance exits the ingestible device via an opening in the ingestible device.140146.-. (canceled)146. The ingestible device of claim 139 , wherein the storage reservoir is attachable to the ingestible device.147. The ingestible device of claim 139 , wherein the storage reservoir is an integral component of the ingestible device.148. The ingestible device of claim 139 , further comprising an injection device configured so that claim 139 , when the force generator generates the force claim 139 , the force moves the injection device to force the dispensable substance out of the ingestible device via the opening.149154.-. (canceled)155. The ingestible device of claim 139 , further comprising a membrane configured so that claim 139 , when the force generator generates the force claim 139 , the force moves the membrane to force the dispensable substance out of the ingestible device via the opening.156160.-. (canceled)161. The ingestible device of claim 139 , further comprising an electronic component within the housing claim 139 , wherein the electronic component is configured to activate the force generator.162. (canceled)163. The ingestible device of claim 139 , further comprising a safety device configured to relieve an internal pressure within the housing.164. The ingestible device of claim 139 , wherein the storage ...

Digestive Organ Internal Contents Sampling Capsule

A digestive organ internal contents sampling capsule for sampling internal contents in a digestive organ includes: a cylindrical container insoluble in a digestive tract for housing the internal contents in the digestive organ; an outer lid enclosing an orifice of the cylindrical container and to dissolve at least partially in the digestive organ; an inner lid arranged in the cylindrical container, and to swell in response to contact with the internal contents in the digestive organ to enclose the orifice of the cylindrical container after the orifice is exposed by dissolving of at least a part of the outer lid; and a marker material to be discharged together with the cylindrical container housing the internal contents in the digestive organ and feces. 1. A digestive organ internal contents sampling capsule for sampling internal contents in a digestive organ , comprising:a cylindrical container insoluble in a digestive tract for housing the internal contents in the digestive organ;an outer lid enclosing an orifice of the cylindrical container and to dissolve at least partially in the digestive organ;an inner lid arranged in the cylindrical container, and to swell in response to contact with the internal contents in the digestive organ to enclose the orifice of the cylindrical container after the orifice is exposed by dissolving of at least a part of the outer lid; anda marker material to be discharged together with the cylindrical container housing the internal contents in the digestive organ and feces.2. The digestive organ internal contents sampling capsule according to claim 1 , whereinthe marker material is housed in advance in the cylindrical container and is caused to flow out from the cylindrical container by dissolving of at least a part of the outer lid.3. The digestive organ internal contents sampling capsule according to claim 2 , whereinthe inner lid is made of a water-swellable material, andthe marker material is a powder and granular material.4. The ...

Systems and Methods for Extracting a Sample from an Ingestible Device

Systems and methods for extracting and/or analyzing a sample, such as a sample present in an ingestible device, are disclosed. 1. A method for extracting a sample from an ingestible device , the ingestible device having a housing with an opening connected to a sampling chamber of the ingestible device , the method comprising:centrifuging the ingestible device to transfer at least a portion of a sample contained in the sampling chamber out of the ingestible device and into a tube via the opening.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising connecting the opening to the tube via a sleeve.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising inserting at least a portion of the ingestible device into the sleeve.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the sleeve comprises a fitted sleeve.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein the ingestible device is centrifuged while the ingestible device is at least partially inserted into the sleeve.6. (canceled)7. The method of any of claim 1 , further comprising exposing the ingestible device to a heated lancet to generate the opening.8. The method of any of claim 1 , further comprising sliding a grating surface against the ingestible device to remove a portion of the housing of the ingestible device to generate the opening.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the ingestible device has a second opening connected to a second sampling chamber of the ingestible device; andthe method further comprises centrifuging the ingestible device to transfer at least a portion of a second sample contained in the second sampling chamber into a second tube via the second opening.10. The method claim 1 , wherein the sampling chamber further comprises an absorbent material claim 1 , and the sample is at least partially absorbed by the absorbent material prior to centrifuging.11. The method of claim 1 , wherein centrifuging comprises:inserting at least a portion of the ingestible device into a sleeve;while at least the portion of the ingestible device is inserted into ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR GUIDING MEDICAL CARE BASED ON DETECTED GASTRIC FUNCTION

Embodiments relate to guiding medical care based on detected gastric function. For example, gastric acid stimulant or suppressant is administered, and then a change in the gastric juice H+ concentration is measured. This change is compared to a guidance H+ concentration differential indicative of relatively healthy gastric function. Medical care is guided based on a relatively healthy gastric function if the measured H+ concentration differential is equal to or exceeds the guidance H+ concentration differential, while medical care is guided based on a relatively unhealthy gastric function if the measured H+ concentration differential is less than the guidance H+ concentration differential. Disclosed embodiments implementing this procedure include, but are not limited to, methods, apparatus, processors, computer programs, and computer-readable mediums. 1. A device for insertion into a stomach of a patient for use with enteral feeding , comprising:an elongate tube having a length;one or more impedance sensors attached along the length of the tube, wherein the one or more impedance sensors are configured to detect a presence or passage of a bolus transitioning through the stomach;a controller in communication with the one or more impedance sensors, wherein the controller is configured to determine measurements of a gastric volume such that the measurements provide guidance for patient care.2. The device of wherein the one or more impedance sensors are attached along the length at a position such that the sensors are placed within the stomach when the tube is inserted into the patient.3. The device of wherein the guidance for patient care comprises instructions to perform at least one of initiation claim 1 , maintenance claim 1 , increase claim 1 , reduction claim 1 , or termination of enteral feeding.4. The device of wherein the controller comprises a processor configured to provide the instructions.5. The device of wherein an intensity of treatment of the patient care ...

HIGHLY-SWELLABLE POLYMERIC FILMS AND COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING THE SAME

Highly-swellable polymeric films are provided. Aspects also include ingestible compositions that include the highly-swellable polymeric film and an ingestible component. Aspects further include methods of making and using the compositions. 139.-. (canceled)40. A device comprising:a framework;a control device coupled to the framework;a partial power source coupled to the control device and configured to provide power to the control device when activated, the partial power source comprising an anode material and a cathode material; anda highly-swellable polymeric film that rapidly swells without disintegrating upon contact with an aqueous medium external to the device, and covers at least one of the anode material and the cathode material;{'claim-text': ['in a first mode of operation, increase shelf-life stability of the device by inhibiting reaction of at least one of the anode material and the cathode material with ambient moisture while the device is in storage; and', {'claim-text': ['swell upon contact with the aqueous medium; and', 'upon swelling, provide conduction between the aqueous medium and at least one of the anode material and the cathode material that the highly-swellable polymeric film is covering.'], '#text': 'in a second mode of operation:'}], '#text': 'wherein the highly-swellable polymeric film is pre-fabricated to:'}41. The device according to claim 40 , wherein the highly-swellable polymeric film rapidly swells to ten times or greater in volume upon contact with the aqueous medium.42. The device according to claim 41 , wherein the highly-swellable polymeric film swells to ten times or greater in volume within one minute or less upon contact with the aqueous medium.43. The device according to claim 40 , wherein the highly-swellable polymeric film is configured to absorb ten grams or more of water per gram of film upon contact the aqueous medium.44. The device according to claim 40 , wherein the highly-swellable polymeric film comprises an ionic ...

System and method of printing 3d biostructures

A computer-implemented method of internally printing a biostructure on a damaged area of a patient. The method includes: assembling a first bioprinter capsule and a first cartridge capsule to form an assembled bioprinter internally within the patient based, at least in part, on directing one or more magnetic fields towards a first bioprinter capsule and a first cartridge capsule, moving the assembled bioprinter to the internally damaged area of the patient based, at least in part, on altering the one or more external magnetic fields directed towards the assembled bioprinter, and printing, via the assembled bioprinter, a first biostructure onto the internally damaged area of the patient based, at least in part, on altering the one or more external magnetic fields directed towards the assembled bioprinter, wherein the one or more external magnetic fields are sequentially altered to incrementally move the assembled bioprinter along at least one plane.

Communication System Using an Implantable Device

The system of the present invention includes an implantable device that can detect high and low frequency current signature. The implantable device can communicate with a communication device that includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, the communication device is activated. 113-. (canceled)14. An ingestible device to communicate information to an implantable device , the ingestible device comprising:a support structure;a first material physically associated with the support structure; anda second material physically associated with the support structure at a location different from a location of the first material, wherein the second material is dissimilar from the first material and has a different electrochemical potential such that the first and second materials produce a voltage potential difference as a result of the first and second materials being in contact with an electrically conductive fluid; anda control device coupled to the first and second materials and powered by the voltage potential difference produced by the first and second materials, wherein the control device is configured to produce a first current signature which is conducted by the electrically conductive fluid and a second current signature which is conducted by the electrically conductive fluid.15. The ingestible device of claim 14 , wherein the second current information includes programming instructions to program an implantable device.16. The ingestible device of claim 14 , comprising a memory coupled to the control device.17. The ingestible device of claim 16 , wherein the memory stores the information to program the control device to output the first or second current signatures.18. The ingestible device of claim 16 , comprising a receiver system coupled to the control device and the memory claim 16 , wherein the receiver system is configured to receive the ...

Communication system with enhanced partial power source and method of manufacturing same

The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also measure the conditions of the environment surrounding the system.

Communication System with Enhanced Partial Power Source and Method of Manufacturing Same

The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also measure the conditions of the environment surrounding the system. 1. A method of manufacturing a plurality of communication devices , wherein each of the plurality of communication devices comprises a non-conducting membrane and a partial power source device , the method comprising:cutting a plurality of openings into a sheet of non-conducting material to produce an assembly membrane sheet, wherein the shape of each opening corresponds to the shape of a framework of each of the plurality of devices;inserting one partial power source device selected from a plurality of partial power source devices into each opening of the assembly membrane sheet to produce a loaded membrane sheet, wherein each of the plurality of partial power source devices is prepared according to a process that comprises depositing a layer of transition metal on an opposite surface of a support structure from a surface having an adhesion material;depositing a layer of non-reactive material onto the loaded membrane sheet on a side opposite the transition metal to produce an adhesion membrane sheet, wherein the layer of non-reactive material defines a plurality of holes;depositing a first material onto the adhesion membrane sheet on the side with the adhesive material, wherein the first material adheres to the non-reactive material; anddepositing a second material onto the layer of transition metal to produce a partial power device sheet, wherein the first material and the second material are configured to produce a voltage potential difference when the first material and the ...

Communication System Incorporated in an Ingestible Product

The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also be associated with food and communicate data about ingestion of food material to a receiver. 113-. (canceled)14. A signal producing product comprising:a digestible material;a coating material; and a first material;', 'a second material; and', 'a circuit electrically coupled to the first material and the second material and configured to control electrical conductance between the first material and the second material to generate a detectable signal;, 'a communication device associated with the digestible material and at least partially surrounded by the coating material, wherein the communication device compriseswherein the first material and the second material are configured to generate a voltage potential to provide power to the communication device when the first material and the second material are in contact with an electrically conductive fluid; andwherein the coating material is configured to withstand mastication pressure to prevent activation of the communication device as the user chews the signal producing product; andwherein the coating material is configured to dissolve in a user's stomach.15. The signal producing product of claim 14 , wherein the digestible material comprises a food material.16. The signal producing product of claim 15 , wherein the communication device is configured to produce information that indicates that the food material has been consumed upon activation of the communication device.17. The signal producing product of claim 15 , further comprising a pharmaceutical product in an ingestible form and associated ...

CAPSULE MEDICAL DEVICE AND MEDICAL SYSTEM

A capsule medical device includes: a power supply unit; a capsule detection magnetic field generation unit configured to generate a capsule detection magnetic field, with which at least one of a position and a posture of the capsule medical device is detected, upon receiving electric power; a state detection unit configured to detect a state of the capsule medical device; a control unit configured to control power supply to the capsule detection magnetic field generation unit; and a magnetic field response unit configured to respond to a guiding-magnetic field for guiding at least one of the position and the posture, wherein the state detection unit includes a guiding-magnetic field detector configured to detect at least one of a strength, a direction, and a gradient of the guiding-magnetic field, and the control unit controls the power supply in accordance with a detection result of the guiding-magnetic field detector. 1. A capsule medical device which is introduced into a subject and used therein , the capsule medical device comprising:a power supply unit;a capsule detection magnetic field generation unit configured to generate a capsule detection magnetic field, with which at least one of a position and a posture of the capsule medical device is detected outside the subject, upon receiving electric power provided by the power supply unit;a state detection unit configured to detect a state of the capsule medical device;a control unit configured to control power supply from the power supply unit to the capsule detection magnetic field generation unit based on a detection result of the state detection unit; anda magnetic field response unit made of a magnetic member and configured to respond to a guiding-magnetic field which is a magnetic field applied from outside to the capsule medical device for guiding at least one of the position and the posture of the capsule medical device,wherein the state detection unit includes a guiding-magnetic field detector configured ...

IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL SENSORS AND RELATED METHODS OF USE

According to one aspect, an implantable medical device may include an anchor assembly configured to anchor the medical device to a body lumen. The implantable medical device may also include a capsule. The capsule may include a pH sensor. The pH sensor may be configured to measure a pH of contents within the body lumen. The capsule may also include a power source, a controller, and an impedance sensor. The impedance sensor may be configured to measure an impedance within the body lumen. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for sensing within a body lumen of a patient , comprising:sensing a pH with an implanted medical device coupled to the body lumen;sensing a direction of travel of contents within the body lumen with an impedance sensor of the medical device;based on the sensed pH and the sensed direction of travel, determining whether the patient has experienced an event; andtransmitting data from the implanted medical device to a data acquisition module located outside of a body of the patient.22. The method of claim 21 , further comprising sensing a position of the medical device within the body lumen.23. The method of claim 21 , further comprising wirelessly transmitting the sensed pH and the sensed direction of travel to the data acquisition module.24. The method of claim 21 , wherein determining whether the patient has experienced an event includes determining whether the sensed pH is less than 4 for a period of 5 or more seconds.25. The method of claim 21 , further comprising releasing the medical device from the body lumen after a period of 1-7 days.26. The method of claim 21 , wherein determining whether the patient has experienced an event includes determining whether the sensed direction of travel of contents is upstream.27. The method of claim 21 , wherein the implanted medical device includes a bioabsorbable portion.28. The method of claim 21 , wherein the implanted medical device is in the shape of a helix.29. The method of claim 21 , further comprising ...

Imaging and locating systems and methods for a swallowable sensor device

The present invention is directed to locating and imaging with a swallowable sensor device disposed in a patient. The swallowable sensor device transmits an acoustic signal from inside a patient's body. A plurality of sensing elements receive the acoustic signal. A computation module determines a location of the swallowable sensor device with respect to the plurality of sensing elements based on the acoustic signal received by at least a subset of the plurality of sensing elements. A three-dimensional image of an interior portion of the patient can also be formed based on the received acoustic signal. The three-dimensional image may be fanned by stereoscopically displaying two two-dimensional images of the interior portion, wherein the two two-dimensional images correspond to the swallowable sensor device being located at two different locations. Alternatively, the three-dimensional image may be formed by computing three-dimensional pixels of the interior portion.

Ingestible Medical Device

Various embodiments are described herein for a device and method for an ingestible medical device with a rotatable element. In some described embodiments, the ingestible medical device includes a storage sub-unit with multiple chambers each having an opening for collecting or dispensing substances from the GI tract. The device further comprises a chamber enclosure with an access port. One of the chamber enclosure and the storage sub-unit are rotatable to allow for aligning the access port with a chamber opening. The ingestible medical device includes a sensor for positioning the access port of the chamber enclosure or the storage sub-unit as one of these elements rotates.

INGESTIBLE PRODUCT AND A METHOD OF USING THE SAME

An ingestible product is configured to be swallowed by a patient and includes: a drug portion that requires a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) plan; and a wireless sensor portion configured to transmit sensor data concerning the drug portion to a remote device. 1. An ingestible product , configured to be swallowed by a patient , comprising:a drug portion that requires a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) plan; anda wireless sensor portion configured to transmit sensor data concerning the drug portion to a remote device.2. The ingestible product of wherein the drug portion is chosen from the group consisting of:a COX-2 Selective Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID); anda D2 receptor antagonist.3. The ingestible product of wherein the wireless sensor portion in configured to wirelessly transmit the sensor data via a wireless communication protocol.4. The ingestible product of wherein the wireless communication protocol is configured to couple the wireless sensor portion to the remote device.5. The ingestible product of wherein the sensor data includes:identification information concerning the drug portion; anddosage information concerning the drug portion.6. The ingestible product of wherein the remote device is chosen from the group consisting of:a smart phone;a smart watch;a wearable patch;a dedicated external device; anda remote computing system.7. A computer-implemented method claim 3 , executed on a computing device claim 3 , comprising:receiving sensor data from a wireless sensor portion of an ingestible product, wherein the sensor data concerns a drug portion of the ingestible product that requires a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) plan;generating drug portion information; andproviding the drug portion information to a third party;wherein the drug portion information is based, at least in part, upon the sensor data.8. The computer-implemented method of further comprising:receiving supplemental data from a user; ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EMBEDDED SENSORS IN DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC MEDICAL DEVICES

The present invention relates to miniature biosensor technology which can be directly embedded into medical device technology to create a new category of multifunctional smart medical devices. The resulting data from these smart medical devices results in wireless communication networks and standardized referenceable databases, which are used in the creation of best practice guidelines, clinical decision support tools, personalized medicine applications, and comparative technology assessment.

PATIENT CUSTOMIZED THERAPEUTIC REGIMENS

Methods, systems and compositions that allow for treating a patient according to a patient customized therapeutic regimen are provided. Embodiments of the invention include obtaining dosage administration information from a patient and using the same to tailor a therapeutic regimen for the patient. Embodiments of the invention further include preparing and forwarding to the patient physical pharmaceutical dosages based on the customized therapeutic regimen. 132-. (canceled)33. A method for customizing a therapeutic regimen for a patient , the method comprising: the dosage administration data is received by the evaluation module after the signal receiving device has received a transmission of the dosage administration data through the body of the patient from a first device,', 'the first device has been provided to the patient to confirm that a first medical composition associated with a prescribed therapeutic regimen has actually been administered to the patient,', 'the first device physically associated with the first medical composition has been configured to transmit the dosage administration data through the body of the patient after ingestion of the first device by the patient and after an electrically conductive fluid within the body of the patient completes a partial power source to activate the first device, and', 'the transmission of the dosage administration data from the first device to the signal receiving device confirms that the first medical composition associated with the prescribed therapeutic regimen has actually been administered to the patient;, 'receiving, by an evaluation module associated with an evaluation computer system, dosage administration data from a signal receiving device associated with a body of the patient, whereinreceiving, by the evaluation module, supplemental data associated with the patient, wherein the supplemental data comprises physiological parameter data detected from the body of the patient;assessing, by the evaluation ...

ELECTRONIC MEDICATION COMPLIANCE MONITORING SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

A system and method for monitoring a patient's compliance with a medication regimen includes an electronic tag integral with or attached to a medicine delivery device such as a capsule, the tag haying an antenna and a receiver/transmitter, the system also including a reader positioned externally for detecting the presence and location of the delivery device in the patient. 1. An electronic system for monitoring a patient's compliance with a medication program , the system comprising:an ingestible medicine delivery device;a tag fitted with the delivery device,a tag electronic circuit carried by the tag, the circuit having means for processing and transmitting one or more out-link radio frequency signals to indicate the presence of the delivery devices with in the patient's body;an electronic reader adapted to be positioned externally adjacent the patient, wherein the reader having means for processing the one or more out-link radio frequency signals received from the tag; anda remote device configured to receive information from the electronic reader and generate data indicative of the patient's mediation compliance with the medication program based on the information received from the electronic reader.2. The electronic medication monitoring system recited in wherein the remote device is further configured to transmit the generated data to a health provider of the patient.3. The electronic medication monitoring system recited in claim 1 , wherein the generated data comprises a real-time estimation of blood levels associated with a specific medication based on one or more pharmacodynamics models and pharmacokinetics models.4. The electronic medication monitoring system recited in claim 1 , wherein the generated data comprises a medication refill request.5. The electronic medication monitoring system recited in claim 1 , wherein the generated data comprises an instruction on adverse drug reaction.6. The electronic medication monitoring system recited in claim 1 , the ...

Gastrointestinal capsule and method

The invention discloses a bidirectional ultrasonic capsule for gastrointestinal measurement. The capsule comprises pairs of ultrasonic ranging probes to obtain correlated depth or morphology data of two sides of an inner wall of a digestive tract, wherein Probe 1 is configured to range a first distance to a first side of the inner wall of the digestive tract along a first direction and Probe 2 is configured to range a second distance to a second side of the inner wall of the digestive tract along an opposite direction to the first direction, and data of the first and second distances are correlated and a sum of the first distance, the second distance and a third distance between Probe 1 and Probe 2 is obtained as a directional cavity diameter of the digestive tract, which eliminates errors caused by motion of the capsule in the digestive tract in the unidirectional measurement of the prior art. 1. A capsule , comprising one or more pairs of ultrasonic probes configured to obtain correlated data of two sides of a wall of a region of a digestive tract.2. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein each of the pairs comprises a first probe and a second probe claim 1 , the first probe configured to range a first distance to a first side of the wall of the region of the digestive tract along a first direction and the second probe configured to range a second distance to a second side of the wall along an opposite direction to the first direction; an angle between the first and second directions is smaller than a threshold.3. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the capsule or a first apparatus linked to the capsule through communication is configured to obtain morphological features from the data.4. The capsule of claim 3 , the morphological features comprising one or more of location claim 3 , volume claim 3 , curvature and diameter of the region.5. The capsule of claim 3 , wherein the capsule or the first apparatus or a second apparatus is configured to obtain parameters of motility ...

Communication System with Multiple Sources of Power

The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also measure the conditions of the environment surrounding the system. 1. A device to communicate with a receiver , the device comprising:a support structure made of semi-conductor material; a first material associated with the support structure; and', 'a second material insulated from the first material and associated with the support structure, wherein the first and second material are selected to represent a voltage potential difference when in contact with a conducting fluid and upon contact with a conducting fluid power up the device;, 'a partial power source comprisinga control module associated with the support structure and electrically connected to the first material and the second material for controlling conductance between the first material and the second for controlling power supplied to the device;a communication module to communicate with the receiver and coupled to the partial power source; anda conductive strip on the support structure and electrically coupled to the communication module, wherein the communication module uses the strip to communicate with the receiver.21. The device further comprising a power storage unit associated with support structure for receiving power through the strip and storing the power.31. The device of wherein the control module encodes information in the current signature by altering the conductance between the first material and the second material.41. The device , wherein the communication module is powered by the partial power source when the device is in contact with the conducting fluid.51. The ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR TRIGGERING A RADIOFREQUENCY TRANSCEIVER IN THE HUMAN BODY

Systems and methods described herein use near field communications to locate a radiating transponder, such as a pill swallowed by a patient. The system can be triggered to turn on and transmit a waveform to a set of antennas attached to, coupled with, or near the patient. The magnetic field emitted by the transponder can be measured by the receiving antennas, for example, using principles of mutual inductance. The differential phase and/or time shifts between the antennas can contain sufficient information to find the location of the transponder and optionally its orientation relative to body coordinates. The system can display the location and/or orientation of the transponder. Further, the pill can include a reservoir to deliver a payload at a particular site of the patient's body based at least in part on the determined location. 120.-. (canceled)21. A method of locating and triggering a patient-swallowed pill transmitter , the method comprising: receiving signals from a plurality of antennas disposed about a body of a patient, the signals responsive to a transmitted signal from a pill transmitter swallowed by the patient;', 'identifying phase differences of the received signals based at least partly on mutual inductance between the pill transmitter and at least some of the plurality of antennas;', 'comparing the phase differences with a stored training set, wherein the stored training set comprises measurements of phase measurements of a pill transmitting outside of the patient at various selected locations in a volume surrounded by the plurality of antennas, wherein the plurality of antennas are positioned on a frame to approximately correspond to locations of the plurality of antennas on the body of the patient; and', 'determining an initial estimate of a location of the pill transmitter within the body of the patient based at least in part on of the comparison of the phase differences with the stored training set and the locations of all the plurality of ...

SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DATA COLLECTION AND ASSESSING OUTCOMES

A computer-implemented method is disclosed. The computer-implemented method comprises receiving, by a computer system, ingestible event marker (IEM) system information from a receiver worn by a subject, the IEM system information comprising information associated with ingestion of medication by the subject, wherein the receiver is configured to communicate with the computer system; receiving, by the computer system, contextual information associated with the subject; and calculating, by the computer system, a composite risk score based on the IEM system information and the contextual information associated with the subject. 1. A computer-implemented method , comprising:receiving, by a computer system, ingestible event marker (IEM) system information from a receiver worn by a subject, the IEM system information comprising physiological information and information associated with ingestion of medication by the subject, wherein the receiver is configured to communicate with the computer system;receiving, by the computer system, contextual information associated with the subject; andcalculating, by the computer system, a composite risk score based on a combination of the IEM system information and the contextual information associated with the subject.2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , comprising:receiving, by the computer system, patient history information associated with the subject; andcalculating the composite risk score based on the patient history information.3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , comprising classifying the subject into a predetermined risk group based on the composite risk score.4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3 , comprising dynamically reclassifying the subject into a predetermined risk group based on the risk score.5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , comprising:determining, by the computer system, a circadian pattern from the contextual information received from the subject;calculating, by the ...

SYSTEM FOR INGESTION EVENT MONITORING AND METHOD FOR DETECTING INGESTION EVENTS WITH HIGH ACCURACY

System and method for ingestion event detection and monitoring are disclosed. The system comprises: an ingestible microsensor configured to generate a signal representing an ingestion event upon ingestion and contact with stomach fluid of a patient; and a reader device positioned external to the patient and configured to detect the signal representing the ingestion event with at least 95% accuracy. 12-. (canceled)3. A system for ingestion event monitoring , the system comprising:an ingestible microsensor configured to generate a signal indicating an ingestion event upon ingestion and contact with stomach fluid of a patient; anda reader device positioned external to the patient and configured to detect the signal indicating the ingestion event with at least 95% accuracy.4. The system of claim 3 , further comprising a remote database configured to: receive data from the reader device via a communication network in real time claim 3 , and generate and transmit one or more messages at least to the patient based upon received data from the reader device.5. The system of claim 3 , wherein the ingestible microsensor comprises circuitry configured to generate power upon being exposed to the stomach fluid of the patient.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the ingestible microsensor is configured to generate and transmit the signal using the power over a period of time following ingestion.7. The system of claim 3 , wherein the ingestible microsensor is configured to be associated with a unique identifier claim 3 , and the signal comprises data indicating the unique identifier.8. The system of claim 3 , wherein the reader device requires no skin contact with the patient.9. A system for ingestion event monitoring claim 3 , the system comprising:a plurality of ingestible microsensors, each ingestible microsensor being configured to generate a signal indicating an ingestion event upon ingestion and contact with stomach fluid; anda reader device configured to detect the signal ...

Hood for endoscope, endoscope and method of fixing balloon for endoscope

A hood for an endoscope has a tube shape and is fitted to an end of an insertion part of the endoscope. A base end of the hood is fitted to a forward end of a first balloon. The forward end of the first balloon is fixed to the insertion part.

ENDOSCOPIC SMART PROBE AND METHOD

An improved endoscopic device which is introduced into, for example, the intestinal tract of a living organism and which operates autonomously therein, adapted to obtain and store or transmit one or more types of data such as visual image data, laser autofluorescence data, pressure data, or ultrasonic waveform data. In one embodiment, the device includes one or more pressure sensing apparatus configured to enable measurement of pressure resulting from, for instance, peristaltic contractions within the intestinal tract, including transmission of pressure data as a function of time off of the device via a wireless interface while the device is within the intestinal tract. 115.-. (canceled)16. An electronic probe for use within a human being , said electronic probe comprising:a housing with an exterior shape and at least one an exterior surface;at least one pressure sensing apparatus in communication with at least a portion of the housing; andcircuitry in signal communication with the at least one pressure sensing apparatus and configured to generate data based at least in part on a pressure being applied to said at least one pressure sensing apparatus while said probe is within said human being.17. The probe of claim 16 , wherein the use within a human being comprises use within an intestinal tract of the human being claim 16 , and the probe is configured to perform said generation of data based on sensing one or more peristaltic contractions within said intestinal tract.18. The probe of claim 17 , further comprising a wireless transmitter in communication with said circuitry and configured to generate radio frequency energy encoding at least a portion of said generated data.19. The probe of claim 18 , wherein the wireless transmitter comprises a transmitter complaint with an RFID (radio frequency identification) standard.20. The probe of claim 16 , further comprising a wireless apparatus in communication with said circuitry and configured to transmit radio frequency ...

NEARLY ISOTROPIC DIPOLE ANTENNA SYSTEM

Systems and methods described herein can use near field communications to locate a radiating transmitter, such as a pill transmitter swallowed by a patient. In some embodiments, the pill transmitter can include multiple transmitting elements configured to transmit signals in an axis orthogonal with respect to each other. Further, in some embodiment, the pill transmitter can also include multiple transmitting elements in each of the three axes where the three axes may be perpendicular with respect to each other. The magnetic field emitted from the pill transmitter can be measured by the receiving antennas, for example, using principles of mutual inductance. 1. A system for locating a patient-swallowed pill transmitter , the system comprising: a circuit board;', 'a first transmitting element electrically coupled with the circuit board, said first transmitting element configured to transmit a first signal, the first transmitting element having a first axis substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the pill transmitter;', 'a second transmitting element electrically coupled with the circuit board, said second transmitting element configured to transmit a second signal, the second transmitting element having a second axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pill transmitter and substantially perpendicular to the first axis of the first transmitting element; and', 'a third transmitting element electrically connected to the circuit board, said third transmitting element configured to transmit a third signal, the third transmitting element having a third axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pill transmitter., 'a swallowable-pill transmitter comprising2. The system of claim 1 , wherein a longitudinal axis of the circuit board is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pill.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein said third transmitting element is positioned on a side opposite from said first transmitting ...

Drug device configured for wireless communication

This invention relates to an ingestible drug delivery device configured for wireless communication with other ingestible drug delivery devices.

Flexible Piezoelectric Devices for Gastrointestinal Motility Sensing

Improvements in ingestible electronics with the capacity to sense physiologic and pathophysiologic states have transformed the standard of care for patients. Yet despite advances in device development, significant risks associated with solid, non-flexible gastrointestinal transiting systems remain. Here, we disclose an ingestible, flexible piezoelectric device that senses mechanical deformation within the gastric cavity. We demonstrate the capabilities of the sensor in both in vitro and ex vivo simulated gastric models, quantified its key behaviors in the GI tract by using computational modeling, and validated its functionality in awake and ambulating swine. Our piezoelectric devices can safely sense mechanical variations and harvest mechanical energy inside the gastrointestinal tract for diagnosing and treating motility disorders and for monitoring ingestion in bariatric applications. 1. A device for sensing deformation of a gastrointestinal tract of a mammal , the device comprising:a flexible substrate;a piezoelectric element, disposed on the flexible substrate, to produce an electrical signal in response to the deformation of the gastrointestinal tract of the mammal;a polymer layer, disposed on the piezoelectric element, to insulate electrodes of the piezoelectric element; anda biocompatible sealant, disposed on the polymer layer and the piezoelectric element on the flexible substrate, to protect the piezoelectric element from acid in the gastrointestinal tract.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the flexible substrate is folded and encapsulated in a dissolvable capsule and configured to unfold in response to the dissolvable capsule dissolving.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the dissolvable capsule is configured to be endoscopically inserted within the gastrointestinal tract of the mammal.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the piezoelectric element comprises a biocompatible piezoelectric material.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the biocompatible sealant ...

Smart capsule with gi-tract-location-specific payload release

A remotely activatable capsule. The capsule includes a housing that can be swallowed by a subject, an electrical energy reservoir having a first terminal and a second terminal positioned in the housing, a remotely activatable switch positioned in the housing and configured to be remotely activated, and a function-specific mechanism positioned in the housing and electrically coupled to the remotely activatable switch and to the electrical energy reservoir and configured to perform a function when the remotely activatable switch is activated.

APPLICATION-SPECIFIC INGESTIBLE APPARATUS FOR IN VIVO DATA COLLECTION AND PROCESSING

A device which is introduced into the intestinal tract of a living organism and which operates autonomously therein, adapted to obtain data using a sensor apparatus (such as an imaging device), and process the data using an onboard processor core. In one embodiment, the processor core comprises a RISC core with an extension instruction set, the extension instructions of which are specifically selected to optimize the data processing, as well as reducing the power consumption of an integrated circuit of which the core is part (such as by way of reducing gate count in the integrated circuit through elimination of unnecessary core functions). 114.-. (canceled)15. A user-configured probe for autonomously operating within the intestinal tract of a living organism , comprising:at least one sensor capable of collecting information relating to said organism;a power supply;a data processor in data communication with the at least one sensor and powered at least in part by the power supply; anda communications device in data communication with the data processor;wherein said data processor comprises a custom core synthesized at least in part through selection by the user of one or more extension instructions specifically adapted for processing data generated by the at least one sensor.16. The probe of claim 15 , wherein said data processor core is optimized for reduced power consumption.17. The probe of claim 16 , wherein said optimization comprises the core having a plurality of sleep modes claim 16 , at least one of the plurality which causes at least a portion of the core to consume less electrical power than when said core is not in said mode.18. The probe of claim 17 , wherein said at least one sleep mode is entered or exited via at least one signal generated internal to said probe claim 17 , said at least one signal relating to the operation of the at least one sensor.19. The probe of claim 16 , wherein said optimization comprises the core having at least one functional ...

IN-VIVO MONITORING OF AN INTERNAL VOLUME OF A MAMMAL USING MAGNETIC FIELD GRADIENTS

A method for in-vivo monitoring of a target internal volume of a mammal that includes: (a) placing the target internal volume proximal to a three-dimensional magnetic field generator; (b) generating first, second, and third magnetic field gradients along respective first, second, and third axes that are mutually orthogonal; (c) measuring first, second, and third magnetic fields with a three-dimensional magnetic sensor disposed in an ingestible capsule, the ingestible capsule disposed in the target internal volume; (d) with a controller in electrical communication with the three-dimensional magnetic sensor, generating a magnetic sensor output signal that encodes a measurement of the first, second, and third magnetic fields; (e) broadcasting the magnetic sensor output signal from an antenna disposed in the ingestible capsule, and (f) receiving the magnetic sensor output signal with a receiver. The received magnetic field data can be used to determine the three-dimensional position of the ingestible capsule. 1. A method for in-vivo monitoring of a target internal volume of a mammal , comprising:placing the target internal volume proximal to a three-dimensional magnetic field generator; a first localization magnetic field gradient along a first axis, at least a portion of the first localization magnetic field gradient having a monotonically-varying magnetic field magnitude along the first axis, the first localization magnetic field gradient produced at a first time;', 'a second localization magnetic field gradient along a second axis that is orthogonal to the first axis, at least a portion of the second localization magnetic field gradient having a monotonically-varying magnetic field magnitude along the second axis, the second localization magnetic field gradient produced at a second time that is different than the first time; and', 'a third localization magnetic field gradient along a third axis that is orthogonal to the first and second axes, at least a portion of ...

Methods and systems for acoustic data transmission

A method of communicating with an ingestible capsule includes detecting the location of the ingestible capsule, focusing a multi-sensor acoustic array on the ingestible capsule, and communicating an acoustic information exchange with the ingestible capsule via the multi-sensor acoustic array. The ingestible capsule includes a sensor that receives a stimulus inside the gastrointestinal tract of an animal, a bidirectional acoustic information communications module that transmits an acoustic information signal containing information from the sensor, and an acoustically transmissive encapsulation that substantially encloses the sensor and communications module, wherein the acoustically transmissive encapsulation is of ingestible size. The multi-sensor array includes a plurality of acoustic transducers that receive an acoustic signal from a movable device, and a plurality of delays, wherein each delay is coupled to a corresponding acoustic transducer. Each delay may be adjusted according to a phase of a signal received by the corresponding acoustic transducer.

LUMEN TRAVELING DEVICE

Various embodiments described herein relate to a lumen traveling device and/or system for real-time display of location of the device as it travels through a lumen in a subject's body. In an embodiment, alignment of the externally alignable display and control device with the lumen traveling device located in a lumen (natural or artificial) in a subject's body provides for tracking, memory display, and manipulation of the lumen traveling device. 1. A system , comprising:a lumen traveling device communicably coupled withan externally alignable display and control device;wherein the lumen traveling device includes at least one at least one power source, at least one of a transmitter, receiver, or transceiver, at least one location sensor,wherein the externally alignable display and control device includes at least one of a transmitter, receiver, or transceiver operably coupled to a controller that operates only within an alignment threshold relative to the lumen traveling device; andwherein a processor is operably coupled to at least one of the lumen traveling device or the externally alignable display and control device and is configured to receive signals from at least one of the lumen traveling device or externally alignable display and control device.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the power source includes at least one battery.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the battery includes at least one of a microbattery claim 2 , nuclear battery claim 2 , or thin film battery.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the power source includes at least one of a fuel cell or biofuel cell.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the power source includes at least one of a nanogenerator claim 1 , optical power source claim 1 , acoustic receiver claim 1 , electromagnetic receiver claim 1 , or electrical power source.69.-. (canceled)10. The system of claim 1 , further including a means for locomotion.11. The system of claim 10 , wherein the means for locomotion includes a controller ...

LUMEN TRAVELING DEVICE

Various embodiments described herein relate to a lumen traveling device and/or system for real-time display of location of the device as it travels through a lumen in a subject's body. In an embodiment, alignment of the externally alignable display and control device with the lumen traveling device located in a lumen (natural or artificial) in a subject's body provides for tracking, memory display, and manipulation of the lumen traveling device. 1. A system , comprising: an externally alignable display and control device;', 'wherein the lumen traveling device includes at least one means for locomotion, at least one power source, at least one of a transmitter, receiver, or transceiver, at least one location sensor, and', 'wherein the externally alignable display and control device includes at least one of a transmitter, receiver, or transceiver;', 'a memory device;', 'wherein the memory device is configured to retrieve data associated with a specific location corresponding to a lumen reference path previously traveled by the lumen traveling device when queried; and', 'wherein a processor is operably coupled to at least one of the lumen traveling device or the externally alignable display and control device and is configured to receive signals from at least one of the lumen traveling device or externally alignable display and control device., 'a lumen traveling device communicably coupled with'}2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the data associated with a specific location is only retrievable within a proximity threshold.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the proximity threshold includes at least one of approximately one millimeter claim 2 , approximately ten millimeters claim 2 , approximately 100 millimeters claim 2 , approximately one centimeter claim 2 , or approximately ten centimeters from the actual path traveled in the lumen.4. The system of claim 1 , further including means to align the externally alignable display and control device with the path previously ...

LUMEN TRAVELING DEVICE

Various embodiments described herein relate to a lumen traveling device and/or system for real-time display of location of the device as it travels through a lumen in a subject's body. In an embodiment, alignment of the externally alignable display and control device with the lumen traveling device located in a lumen (natural or artificial) in a subject's body provides for tracking, memory display, and manipulation of the lumen traveling device. 1. A system , comprising:a lumen traveling device communicably coupled withan externally alignable display and control device;wherein the lumen traveling device includes at least one means for locomotion, at least one power source, at least one of a transmitter, receiver, or transceiver, at least one location sensor;wherein the externally alignable display and control device includes at least one of a transmitter, receiver, or transceiver; andwherein a processor is operably coupled to at least one of the lumen traveling device or the externally alignable display and control device and is configured to receive signals from at least one of the lumen traveling device or externally alignable display and control device only upon the lumen traveling device entering at least one predetermined location threshold.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined location threshold corresponds to a specific temporal or spatial threshold.3. The system of claim 1 , further including at least one transmitter to transmit at least one signal demarcating that the lumen traveling device is traveling in the at least one predetermined location threshold.4. The system of claim 1 , further including at least one memory device operably coupled to the processor.5. The system of claim 1 , further including means to align the externally alignable display and control device with the path previously traveled by the lumen traveling device claim 1 , including at least one of at least one inertial sensor claim 1 , at least one fiducial sensor claim 1 ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WIRELESS CAPSULE ENDOSCOPE WITH ADAPTIVE FRAME RATE

The present invention discloses a system for wireless capsule endoscope with adaptive frame rate, comprising: a recorder data processor to filter the first posture information of a capsule endoscope and the second posture information of a portable recorder to obtain a quaternion pof the first posture information and a quaternion pof the second posture information, and to calculate an interpolated median sbetween pand pat time t, and an interpolated median sbetween p′and p′at time t; the recorder data processor also calculates a difference diffbetween the interpolated median sand s, and works out the dot product of the difference diffand unit quaternion [1, 0, 0, 0]. 1. A system for wireless capsule endoscope with adaptive frame rate , comprising:{'b': 1', '1', '4', '1', '5, 'a capsule endoscope () including a capsule data processor (.) and a first 6-axis sensor (.), and'}{'b': 2', '2', '2', '2', '3, 'a portable recorder () including a second 6-axis sensor (.) and a recorder data processor (.), wherein'}{'b': 1', '5', '1, 'a first 6-axis sensor (.) is configured to collect a first posture information of the capsule endoscope ();'}{'b': 2', '2', '2, 'a second 6-axis sensor (.) is configured to collect a second posture information of the portable recorder ();'}{'b': 2', '3, 'img': [{'@id': 'CUSTOM-CHARACTER-00001', '@he': '3.89mm', '@wi': '3.56mm', '@file': 'US20190117049A1-20190425-P00001.TIF', '@alt': 'custom-character', '@img-content': 'character', '@img-format': 'tif'}, {'@id': 'CUSTOM-CHARACTER-00002', '@he': '3.89mm', '@wi': '3.56mm', '@file': 'US20190117049A1-20190425-P00002.TIF', '@alt': 'custom-character', '@img-content': 'character', '@img-format': 'tif'}, {'@id': 'CUSTOM-CHARACTER-00003', '@he': '4.23mm', '@wi': '3.22mm', '@file': 'US20190117049A1-20190425-P00003.TIF', '@alt': 'custom-character', '@img-content': 'character', '@img-format': 'tif'}, {'@id': 'CUSTOM-CHARACTER-00004', '@he': '3.89mm', '@wi': '3.56mm', '@file': 'US20190117049A1-20190425-P00001. ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR TRIGGERING A RADIOFREQUENCY TRANSCEIVER IN THE HUMAN BODY

Systems and methods described herein use near field communications to locate a radiating transponder, such as a pill swallowed by a patient. The system can be triggered to turn on and transmit a waveform to a set of antennas attached to, coupled with, or near the patient. The magnetic field emitted by the transponder can be measured by the receiving antennas, for example, using principles of mutual inductance. The differential phase and/or time shifts between the antennas can contain sufficient information to find the location of the transponder and optionally its orientation relative to body coordinates. The system can display the location and/or orientation of the transponder. Further, the pill can include a reservoir to deliver a payload at a particular site of the patient's body based at least in part on the determined location. 120.-. (canceled)21. A method of locating and triggering a patient-swallowed pill transmitter , the method comprising: receiving signals from a plurality of antennas disposed about a body of a patient, the signals responsive to a transmitted signal from a pill transmitter swallowed by the patient;', 'identifying phase differences of the received signals based at least partly on mutual inductance between the pill transmitter and at least some of the plurality of antennas;', 'comparing the phase differences with a stored training set, wherein the stored training set comprises measurements of phase measurements of a pill transmitting outside of the patient at various selected locations in a volume surrounded by the plurality of antennas, wherein the plurality of antennas are positioned on a frame to approximately correspond to locations of the plurality of antennas on the body of the patient;', 'determining an initial estimate of a location of the pill transmitter within the body of the patient based at least in part on of the comparison of the phase differences with the stored training set and the locations of all the plurality of antennas ...