Non-Invasive Measurement Of Fluid Pressure In An Adjustable Gastric Band

A food intake restriction device for forming a restriction in a patient's gastro-intestinal tract and non-invasively communicating pressure data regarding the restriction to an external monitor. The device includes a food intake restriction device implanted substantially about a patient's gastro-intestinal tract to form a restricted opening in the tract. A port is connected to the restriction device. The port contains a working fluid for affecting the size of the restricted opening. A pressure sensing system communicates with the working fluid to measure the pressure of the working fluid. A transmitter communicates the measured fluid pressure to the external monitor.

PROCESS FOR PREPARATION OF A CARBOXYLIC ACID SALT BY DEHYDROGENATION OF A PRIMARY ALCOHOL

This invention is directed a process for preparation of a carboxylic acid salt by dehydrogenation of a primary alcohol. The invention is also directed to a catalyst for dehydrogenating primary alcohols. 1. A process for the preparation of a carboxylic acid salt by dehydrogenation of a primary alcohol , the process comprising:contacting an alkaline mixture comprising said primary alcohol with a dehydrogenation catalyst, said catalyst comprising a copper-containing active phase at the surface thereof and a supporting structure, wherein the supporting structure has a yield strength of at least about 100 MPa and comprises at least about 10% by weight non-copper metal.3. A process according to claim 2 , wherein n is 2; Ris hydrogen; and Ris hydrogen claim 2 , hydrocarbyl claim 2 , or substituted hydrocarbyl.4. A process according to claim 3 , wherein Ris hydrocarbyl.5. A process according to claim 4 , wherein Ris —(CH)—(CH).6. A process according to claim 5 , wherein Ris —CH.7. A process according to claim 2 , wherein said primary alcohol is selected from the group consisting of monoethanolamine claim 2 , diethanolamine claim 2 , and triethanolamine.8. A process as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said catalyst comprises a metal sponge.9. A process as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said supporting structure comprises a metal sponge having deposited thereon a copper-containing outer stratum.10. A process as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said catalyst has a heterogeneous structure comprising the supporting structure and the active phase at the surface of the catalyst claim 1 , wherein the active phase comprises at least about 50% by weight copper.11. A process as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said catalyst comprises a particulate catalyst.12. A process as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said non-copper metal is selected from the group consisting of nickel claim 1 , zinc claim 1 , tin claim 1 , cobalt claim 1 , iron and combinations thereof.13. A process as set forth in ...

SYSTEM FOR SELECTING EMPLOYMENT CANDIDATES

A computer system receives data relating to a plurality of persons. The persons are employed in the same occupation. A portion of the persons is top performers in the occupation, and a portion of the persons is bottom performers in the occupation. The data relates to personal traits and performance traits. The data is input into a software-based neural network, and the neural network generates models for the personal traits as a function of the personal traits and the performance traits of the top performers. The neural network further generates a performance model, which is made up of the models. The performance model is configured to determine that a particular person will likely be a top performer in the occupation.

CONICAL HEADED FASTENER FOR A PRINTED WIRING BOARD ASSEMBLY

One aspect includes an electronics assembly, including: (1) printed wiring board, (2) a mount and (3) a fastener for securing the printed wiring board to the mount, the fastener including a body configured to pass through a mounting hole on the printed wiring board and engage the mount, the fastener further including a conical head configured to receive a driver torque and further configured to engage a rim of the mounting hole and produce an increasing frictional torque to countervail and eventually balance the driver torque. 1. An electronics assembly , comprising:a printed wiring board comprising a mounting hole, said mounting hole comprising a rim;a mount; anda fastener comprising a body and a conical head, said fastener configured to secure said printed wiring board to said mount, said body configured to pass through said mounting hole on said printed wiring board and to releasably engage said mount, said conical head configured to receive a driver torque, and to engage said rim of said mounting hole and to thereby produce an frictional torque to balance said driver torque.2. An electronics assembly as recited in wherein said mount is a heat transfer device.3. An electronics assembly as recited in wherein said mount is a chassis for an electronics device.4. An electronics assembly as recited in wherein said fastener is threaded.5. An electronics assembly as recited in wherein said fastener is a screw.6. An electronics assembly as recited in wherein said fastener is a bolt secured by a nut.7. An electronics assembly as recited in wherein said conical head has an opening angle producing both radial and axial forces on said printed wiring board claim 1 , said radial forces exceeding said axial forces.8. An electronics assembly as recited in wherein said opening angle of said conical head is about 25 degrees.9. A fastener for securing a printed wiring board of a printed wiring assembly to a mount claim 7 , comprising:a body configured to pass through a mounting ...

CONTEXT-BASED INTERACTIVE PLUSH TOY

An interactive toy for interacting with a user while a story is being read aloud from a book or played from a movie/video. The toy includes a speech recognition unit that receives and detects certain triggering phrases as they are read aloud or played from a companion literary work. The triggering phrase read aloud from the book or played in the movie/video may have independent significance or may only have significance when combined with other phrases read aloud from the book or played in the movie/video. In one embodiment, the toy is configured to detect only certain types of triggering prompts in certain states, such as, for example, triggering phrases or triggering terms. In this embodiment, and others, the toy is configured to switch between states such that it can at times respond to triggering terms and at other times respond to triggering phrases. 1. An interactive toy that performs a method for interacting with a user , the method comprising:activating a phrase-detection state in which said toy is configured to receive a first plurality of audible sounds corresponding to text read aloud from a book;analyzing the first plurality of audible sounds to detect one or more triggering phrases;detecting a triggering phrase was read aloud by the user reading the book;upon detecting the triggering phrase, activating a term-detection state in which said toy is configured to receive a second plurality of audible sounds corresponding to text read aloud from the book;analyzing the second plurality of audible sounds to detect one or more triggering terms;detecting a triggering term was read aloud by the user reading the book; andupon detecting the triggering term, activating a response sequence that supplements a story told in the book.2. The interactive toy of claim 1 , wherein triggering phrases include a plurality of non-triggering terms.3. The interactive toy of claim 1 , wherein triggering phrases include one or more terms that would be triggering terms in the term- ...

Spinal Anchoring Screw

A spine stabilization system includes at least one bone anchor assembly, the bone anchor assembly including a bone engaging member and a receiver member, wherein the receiver member includes a connecting member cavity, and an elongated connecting member inserted into the connecting member cavity and connected to the receiver member, wherein the connecting member comprises locking features configured to secure the connecting member to the receiver member without the use of a fixation screw extending through a top portion of the receiver member.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING PARAMETERS OF ORTHOPAEDIC PROCEDURES

Systems and methods for optimizing parameters of an orthopaedic procedure for a particular patient, including parameters relating to the anatomic and biomechanic fit of an implant or implant system implanted into the patient's joint. These systems and methods may utilize patient-specific information gathered pre-operatively in conjunction with optimization algorithms to determine an optimal implant design and an optimal position and orientation for implantation of the implant into the particular patient's joint. 1. A computer-implemented method of optimizing parameters relating to a joint procedure involving the implantation of at least one orthopaedic implant into a joint of a particular patient , the method comprising: ["(i) information relating at least in part to a model of the particular patient's joint, including information defining at least in part a plurality of soft tissue attachment locations;", "(ii) information relating at least in part to an axis associated with the particular patient's joint in relation to the model of the particular patient's joint;"], '(a) receiving in a computer processor information concerning the particular patient, including (i) at least some of the plurality of orthopaedic responses each relate to at least one of a kinetic, kinematic, and soft tissue balance response of the joint;', '(ii) at least some of the orthopaedic factors relate to the received information concerning the particular patient;', '(iii) at least one of the orthopaedic factors relates to at least one of a position and an orientation of the orthopaedic implant relative to the joint; and', '(iv) at least one of the orthopaedic factors relates to an articular surface shape geometry of the orthopaedic implant;, '(b) receiving in the computer processor information that defines at least one relationship relating a plurality of orthopaedic responses to a plurality of orthopaedic factors, wherein ["(i) at least one of a suggested optimal position and a suggested ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING PARAMETERS OF ORTHOPAEDIC PROCEDURES

Systems and methods for optimizing parameters of an orthopaedic procedure for a particular patient, including parameters relating to the anatomic and biomechanic fit of an implant or implant system implanted into the patient's joint. These systems and methods may utilize patient-specific information gathered pre-operatively in conjunction with optimization algorithms to determine an optimal implant design and an optimal position and orientation for implantation of the implant into the particular patient's joint. 1. A computer-implemented method of optimizing parameters of a joint procedure involving the implantation of at least one orthopaedic implant into a joint of a particular patient , the method comprising:(a) receiving in a computer processor information concerning the particular patient, including information relating at least in part to a model of the particular patient's joint;(b) in the computer processor, using the information relating to the model, determining a suggested optimal general size group for the orthopaedic implant;(c) in the computer processor, using the information relating to the model and the information relating to the suggested optimal general size group, determining at least one of a suggested optimal position and a suggested optimal orientation for the orthopaedic implant relative to the particular patient's joint;(d) in the computer processor, using the information relating to the model, the information relating to the suggested optimal general size group, and the information relating to the at least one of the suggested optimal position and the suggested optimal orientation, determining a suggested anatomic fit geometry for the orthopaedic implant; and(e) outputting from the computer processor the information relating to the suggested optimal general size group and the information relating to suggested anatomic fit geometry.2. The computer implemented method of claim 1 , wherein receiving the information relating at least in part to ...

POWERED SURGICAL TOOL WITH A CONTROL MODULE IN A SEALED HOUSING, THE HOUSING HAVING ACTIVE SEALS FOR PROTECTING INTERNAL COMPONENTS FROM THE EFFECTS OF STERILIZATION

A powered surgical tool with a housing that contains a power generating unit such as a motor. A control module is disposed in a shell that is mounted in the housing. Conductive pins extend through the shell to provide electrical connections to the components within the shell. An active seals are disposed around the conductors and the inner walls of the shell that define the openings in which the shells are seated. Each active seal include an inner and outer skirt. A biasing component disposed between the skirts urges the inner skirt against the section of the conductive pin seated in the opening. The biasing component also urges the outer skirt against the adjacent opening-defining inner wall of the shell. The active seal functions as a barrier between the conductive pin and the adjacent inner wall of the shell. 1. A powered surgical tool including:a housing;a power generating unit disposed in said housing;an attachment that extends from said housing that is connected to and actuated by the power generating unit for performing a surgical/medical task;a control module disposed in the housing, the control module having:a shell, said shell formed with at least one opening:a circuit disposed in said shell for regulating operation of said power generating unit;at least one conductive pin that extends through the at least one opening of said shell for establishing an electrical connection between said power generating unit and said circuit; and a first stop disposed in the at least one opening around said pin, said first stop extending to an inner surface of said shell that defines the shell opening;', 'a second stop disposed in the at least one opening around said pin said second stop extending to the inner surface of said shell that defines the shell opening, said second stop being spaced away from said first stop;', 'a seal unit disposed in the at least one opening around said conductive pin and between said first and second stops, said seal including: a boot, said ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TESTING RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICE UNDER TEST CAPABLE OF COMMUNICATING USING MULTIPLE RADIO ACCESS TECHNOLOGIES

System and method for testing a radio frequency (RF) device under test (DUT) communicating using multiple radio access technologies (RATs). Single data signal sequences having characteristics of multiple RATs as prescribed by signal standards are exchanged between a tester and DUT. The tester and DUT process received signal sequences substantially in parallel with their reception. A pattern of contemporaneous signal sequence reception and processing continues for as many RATs as the DUT is capable of supporting. 1. A method of testing a radio frequency (RF) device under test (DUT) capable of communicating using a plurality of radio access technologies (RATs) , comprising:receiving, with a DUT from a tester during a plurality of successive time intervals, one or more RF data signals having a plurality of mutually distinct signal characteristics in accordance with a plurality of RATs, wherein, during first and second adjacent ones of said plurality of successive time intervals, said one or more RF data signals have at least first and second mutually distinct signal characteristics in accordance with first and second ones of said plurality of RATs, respectively; andprocessing, with said DUT, said received one or more RF data signals during a portion of said plurality of successive time intervals subsequent to said first one of said plurality of successive time intervals.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said receiving claim 1 , with a DUT from a tester during a plurality of successive time intervals claim 1 , one or more RF data signals having a plurality of mutually distinct signal characteristics in accordance with a plurality of RATs comprises capturing at least a portion of a plurality of data from said one or more RF data signals.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said processing claim 1 , with said DUT claim 1 , said received one or more RF data signals during a portion of said plurality of successive time intervals subsequent to said first one of said plurality ...

PATIENT SPECIFIC IMPLANT POSITIONING

Instrument that is made to match the perimeter shape of a Patient Specific Knee Implant (PSKI) with features for locating holes in the distal femur such that the posts or lugs in the femoral implant locate the femoral implant centered medial-laterally within an acceptable degree of precision to prevent overhang of either the medial or lateral side of the femoral implant over the perimeter of the distal femur bone resections. Patient specific implant technology, in which a three-dimensional model of at least a portion of a bone is accessed and a three-dimensional solution volume is defined based on resection cuts used in fitting an implant on the portion of the bone. An outline representation of at least a portion of an outer surface of a periphery of the resultant bone volume is determined and the outline representation is used in one or more operations related to instrument matching. 1. An instrument for locating a medial-lateral position of an implant comprising:a distal cut surface portion;an anterior chamfer portion connected to the distal cut surface portion;anterior flange portion connected to the anterior flange portion;a posterior chamfer portion connected to the distal cut surface portion;at least one paddle connected to the posterior chamfer portion;at least one locating hole in the distal cut surface portion; and wherein the distal cut surface portion has a lateral perimeter and a medial perimeter, the lateral and medial perimeters each having a patient specific shape.2. The instrument of claim 1 , further comprising a notch.3. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the posterior chamfer portion comprises a posterior lateral chamfer and a posterior medial chamfer.4. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the at least one paddle comprises a posterior medial condyle and a posterior lateral condyle.5. The instrument of claim 1 , further comprising a patient specific implant with a perimeter claim 1 , and wherein at least the medial and lateral perimeters match a ...

LINEAR ACCELERATOR SYSTEM FOR STABLE PULSING AT MULTIPLE DOSE LEVELS

A linac-based X-ray system for cargo scanning and imaging applications uses linac design, RF power control, beam current control, and beam current pulse duration control to provide stable sequences of pulses having different energy levels or different dose. 120.-. (canceled)21. An X-ray system for providing a plurality of X-ray pulses of controlled dose per pulse , each of the plurality comprising different energy or different dose characteristics , or both , comprising a linear accelerator having resonance for outputting pulses of high energy electrons and configured to strike a target to thereby generate a plurality of X-ray pulses ,a magnetron responsive to a first control signal for supplying RF energy pulses to the linear accelerator at a plurality of RF power levels with a corresponding plurality of frequencies,an electron gun driver, operating independently of the magnetron by being responsive to a second control signal different from the first control signal, for supplying to the linear accelerator pulses of a plurality of beam currents at times substantially corresponding to an associated one of the RF energy pulses at a plurality of RF power levels, and wherein the magnetron output couples to the linear accelerator at the plurality of RF power levels such that the energies of X-ray pulses resulting from at least two of the plurality of pulses of high energy electrons have controlled dose per pulse, at least one of the plurality of X-ray pulses is at a reduced dose relative to at least one other of the plurality of X-ray pulses and the reduced dose pulses are substantially within the range of 5× to 200× smaller than the pulses that are not reduced dose.22. The X-ray system of wherein the beam current pulses associated with the reduced dose X-ray pulses are shorter in at least one of duration and amplitude than the beam current pulses associated with X-ray pulses that are not reduced dose.23. The X-ray system of wherein the beam current pulses associated ...

DATA CLEAN ROOM

Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a data clean room allowing secure data analysis across multiple accounts, without the use of third parties. Each account may be associated with a different company or party. The data clean room may provide security functions to safeguard sensitive information. For example, the data clean room may restrict access to data in other accounts. The data clean room may also restrict which data may be used in the analysis and may restrict the output. The overlap data may be anonymized to prevent sensitive information from being revealed. 1. A method comprising:providing a first party data in a first account in a network-based data system;providing a second party data in a second account in the network-based data system;executing, by a processor, a secure function using the first party data to generate a first result, including creating links to the first party data and anonymizing identification information in the first party data;sharing the secure function with the second account;executing the secure function using the second party data to generate a second result and restricting the second account from accessing the first party data;generating a cross reference table with the first and second results, the cross reference table providing anonymized matches of the first and second results;receiving a query request related to the first and second party data;based on the cross reference table and the first party data, executing a first portion of the query request to generate results of the first portion of the query request;sharing a secure query request and the results of the first portion of the query request with the second account, the secure query request including instructions to execute a second portion of the query request; andreceiving final results of the query request from the second account.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:generating an interim table with the results of the portion of the query ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPARTING A CATHETER TIP TO MULTI-LAYERED TUBING

A method and apparatus for imparting a rounded tip to a length of multi-layered tubing to form a urinary catheter includes a plurality of dies with internal geometry to successively push back an end region of an inner layer of the multi-layered tubing, exposing an interior of an end region of an external layer, and forming that end region of the external layer into a rounded end that is free of bald spots. The end region of the external layer may be thinned out by an intermediate die having an elongate conical die plug therein. Gravity and vacuum pressure may be used to facilitate flow of material of which at least one of the layers of the multi-layered tubing is constructed when heated to a deformable condition. 1. A method of forming a rounded catheter tip on an end of a length of multi-layered tubing comprising:inserting a first end of the multi-layered tubing in an aperture of a first die, the first die including a cylindrical stage, a truncated conical die plug segment extending from a first end of the cylindrical stage and tapering radially inwardly with increasing distance from the first end of the cylindrical stage, and an inner wall of the first die spaced radially outwardly from the cylindrical stage, the inner wall of the first die and an outer wall of the cylindrical stage defining an annular recess therebetween having a thickness greater than a thickness of an external layer of the multi-layered tubing and less than a combined thickness of the external layer of the multi-layered tubing and at least one inner layer of the multi-layered tubing, until the inner layer of the multi-layered tubing contacts the first end of the cylindrical stage;applying heat to the first die so that the temperature of an end region of the inner layer of the multi-layered tubing exceeds a glass transition stage threshold of the material of which the inner layer is formed, thereby rendering deformable the end region of the inner layer of the multi-layered tubing, and permitting ...

Immediate Views

Techniques described herein provide an organization information distribution system. At least some implementations connect to a system server associated with an organization information distribution system over a communication network. In response to receiving a notification from the system server, various implementations present default content associated with operating in a default mode. The default content can be presented in a persistent manner and/or for a predetermined time period. Upon receiving a second notification from the system server, one or more implementations transition out of the default mode and present different content associated with the second notification, such as an immediate view, audio content, video content, and so forth. 1. A system comprising:one or more processors; and connect, over a communication network, to a server associated with an organization information distribution system;', 'receive, from the server, a first notification to present default content associated with a first immediate view associated with the organization information distribution system while operating in a default mode;', 'present, on a display device associated with the system, the default content associated with the first immediate view;', 'receive, from the server, a second notification to present different content associated with a second immediate view associated with the organization information distribution system and transition out of the default mode; and', 'transition out of the default mode and present the different content associated with the second immediate view., 'one or more computer-readable storage memory devices embodying processor-executable instructions which, responsive to execution by the one or more processors, cause the system to2. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the processor-executable instructions to present the content associated with the first immediate view further comprise instructions to:receive an address to the ...

Invocation Devices in an Organization Information Distribution System

Various techniques provided herein generate trigger events in an organization information distribution system. Various implementations establish a connection between an invocation device and a server using a communication network. Establishing the connection can include authenticating the invocation device to the server and/or authenticating the server to the invocation device. In response to establishing the connection to the server, one or more implementations detect a trigger event, such as the actuation of a hardware mechanism and/or a sensor detecting the trigger event without user-intervention. Some implementations capture content based on a point in time associated with when the trigger event occurs. Upon detecting the trigger event, various implementations forward a notification of the trigger event and/or the captured content. 1. A system comprising:a hardware actuation mechanism;one or more processors; and establish, over a communication network, a connection to a server associated with an organization information distribution system;', 'detect activation of the hardware actuation mechanism; and', 'forward, to the server, a notification based on the detected activation of the hardware actuation mechanism., 'one or more computer-readable storage memory devices embodying processor-executable instructions which, responsive to execution by the one or more processors, cause the system to2. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the processor-executable instructions to establish the connection to the server further comprises processor-executable instructions to forward authentication information to the server.3. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the hardware actuation mechanism comprises a hardware button.4. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the processor-executable instructions to detect the activation of the hardware actuation mechanism further comprise instructions to detect a single activation of the hardware actuation mechanism claim 1 ...

Telecommunication Service Employing an Electronic Information Repository Storing Social Network User Information, Developer Information, and Mobile Network Operator Information

A telecommunication system that carries out telecommunication functions between multiple parties as initiated by the user interaction with a social network application, while maintaining privacy of the device identifiers (phone numbers or static IP addresses assigned to devices) of the participating parties. 154-. (canceled)55. An apparatus for use in a system supporting advanced telecommunication functions , the apparatus comprising:functionality configured to receive a request for initiating real-time communication involving at least one social network user; andfunctionality configured to generate at least one message for communication to at least one gateway of an MNO (Mobile Network Operator) in response to receiving said request, wherein the at least one message includes information about at least one social network user that is making or is an intended recipient of said requested communication and that has a plan with the MNO, including a device identifier and at least one piece of additional data.56. An apparatus according to claim 55 , wherein:the request is generated by execution of a social network application by a social network user.57. An apparatus according to claim 56 , wherein:the additional data includes information that identifies the social network application from which the real-time communication request was initiated.58. An apparatus according to claim 55 , wherein:the additional data includes information that identifies geographic location of the social network user initiating the real-time communication request or receiving the real-time communication.59. An apparatus according to claim 55 , wherein:the device identifier includes information that identifies a communication device for a social network user that initiated the request.60. An apparatus according to claim 59 , wherein:the communication device comprises a mobile communication device.61. An apparatus according to claim 55 , wherein:the device identifier includes information that ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AIR COOLING OF VARIOUS ENCLOSURES

A system for extracting air from a vehicle includes a mounting body and a plurality of fans mounted in the mounting body. The system further includes a panel, interconnected with the mounting body, the panel pivotably attached to the mounting body, the panel having a first position closing the mounting body and a second position opening the mounting body. The plurality of fans is in communication with an airflow passage when the panel is in the second position. The system further includes a solar power source in communication with the plurality of fans and providing power to the plurality of fans. 1. A system for extracting air from an enclosure , the system comprising:a mounting body;a plurality of fans mounted in the mounting body;a panel, interconnected with the mounting body, the panel pivotably attached to the mounting body, the panel having a first position closing the mounting body and a second position opening the mounting body, wherein the plurality of fans are in communication with an airflow passage when the panel is in the second position; anda solar power source in communication with the plurality of fans and providing power to the plurality of fans.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a pressure switch claim 1 , the pressure switch proximate to the panel such that claim 1 , when the panel is in the second position claim 1 , the switch is activated and the plurality of fans are activated.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a battery pack interconnected with the plurality of fans and the solar power source.4. The system of claim 3 , further comprising a power management circuit claim 3 , the power management circuit configured to charge the battery pack with power from the solar power source.5. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a water management system claim 1 , the water management system proximate to the panel and configured to prevent entry of water through the plurality of fans and the airflow passage from precipitation.6 ...

Scanning Linear Accelerator System Having Stable Pulsing At Multiple Energies and Doses

A linac-based X-ray system for cargo scanning and imaging applications uses linac design, RF power control, beam current control, and beam current pulse duration control to provide stable sequences of pulses having different energy levels or different doses. 1. A method for generating an alternating series of X-ray pulses of different energies comprising the steps ofproviding an electron accelerator with a resonance bandwidth, the electron accelerator including an electron gun and a target,providing to the electron accelerator a plurality of pulses of alternating RF powers, each of the RF pulses having an RF pulsewidth, such that a pulse of a higher RF power is followed by a pulse of a lower RF power, and the RF powers are sufficiently similar that the frequency difference of the alternating pulses of RF power is within the resonance bandwidth of the electron accelerator,providing to the electron gun a plurality of current pulses of electrons of alternating currents, each current pulse synchronized to occur within the RF pulsewidth of the corresponding higher and lower RF power pulses, andcontrolling the duration of the current pulses, such that the combination of alternating RF power pulses and alternating current pulses of electrons causes the electron accelerator to emit pulses of alternating energies of at least 2 Mev that strike a target which in response emits X-rays of alternating energy levels each having a dose in a controllable ratio and the alternating energy levels having an energy difference of not less than 1 Mev.2. The method of wherein the ratio is approximately 1:1.3. The method of wherein the ratio is substantially different from 1:1.4. The method of wherein the pulses of alternating energies comprises pulses of approximately 4 Mev and 6 Mev.5. A linac system for providing pulses with stable dose per pulse during periods of scanning claim 1 , comprising:a power source for supplying power,an RF source with a controllable output frequency for ...

PATIENT-SPECIFIC SIMULATION DATA FOR ROBOTIC SURGICAL PLANNING

A method for creating a patient-specific surgical plan includes receiving one or more pre-operative images of a patient having one or more infirmities affecting one or more anatomical joints. three-dimensional anatomical model of the one or more anatomical joints is created based on the one or more pre-operative images. One or more transfer functions and the three-dimensional anatomical model are used to identify a patient-specific implantation geometry that corrects the one or more infirmities. The transfer functions model performance of the one or more anatomical joints as a function of anatomical geometry and anatomical implantation features. surgical plan comprising the patient-specific implantation geometry may then be displayed. 110.-. (canceled)11. A system for creating a patient-specific surgical plan , the system comprising:{'claim-text': ['create a three-dimensional anatomical model of one or more anatomical joints based on one or more pre-operative images of a patient having one or more infirmities affecting the one or more anatomical joints,', 'utilize one or more transfer functions and the three-dimensional anatomical model to identify a patient-specific implantation geometry that corrects the one or more infirmities, wherein the one or more transfer functions model performance of the one or more anatomical joints as a function of anatomical geometry and anatomical implantation features, and', 'generate a pre-operative surgical plan comprising the patient-specific implantation geometry;'], '#text': 'one or more processors configured to:'}a database storing the pre-operative surgical plan; and{'claim-text': ['at least one computer configured to use the one or more transfer functions, the three-dimensional anatomical model, and additional patient anatomical data acquired during a surgical procedure to identify an updated patient-specific implantation geometry, and', 'a display configured to present an updated surgical plan comprising the updated patient- ...

PROTECTIVE COVERS FOR USE WITH AIRCRAFT CARGO HOLDS

Protective covers (e.g., “liners”) for use in protecting aircraft cargo hold floors from potentially harmful or dangerous fluids and other substances, and from physical damage, are described herein. In some embodiments, the cargo pit liners described herein can include a plurality of raised portions and adjacent recesses that provide a protective barrier between cargo and a floor of the cargo pit. The raised portions can facilitate movement of cargo and improve impact resistance, and the recesses can collect and retain potentially detrimental fluids. 1. A cargo floor liner for protecting cargo holds , comprising:a liner body having a central portion and a perimeter portion around the central portion, the liner body configured to removably cover and protect a floor of the cargo hold;a raised border projects away from the liner body along at least a portion of the perimeter portion of the liner body;a plurality of projections extending away from the central portion of the liner body and being spaced apart to define a plurality of recesses configured to capture and block liquid or debris from the floor of the cargo hold.2. The cargo floor liner of wherein the recesses are first recesses claim 1 , and wherein a portion of the plurality of projections are adjacent to one or more portions of the raised boarder to define one or more second recesses adjacent the perimeter portion claim 1 , wherein the one or more second recesses are configured to capture and block liquid or debris from the floor of the cargo hold.3. The cargo floor liner of wherein the first recesses are in fluid communication with the second recesses.4. The cargo floor liner of wherein the first recesses are out of fluid communication with the second recesses.5. The cargo floor liner of claim 1 , further comprising an absorbent material removably retained within one or more of the plurality of recesses.6. The cargo floor liner of wherein the absorbent material has a shape and size substantially ...

Telecommunication Service Employing an Electronic Information Repository Storing Social Network User Information, Developer Information, and Mobile Network Operator Information

A telecommunication system that carries out telecommunication functions between multiple parties as initiated by the user interaction with a social network application, while maintaining privacy of the device identifiers (phone numbers or static IP addresses assigned to devices) of the participating parties. 154-. (canceled)55. A mobile network operator (MNO) gateway for use in a system supporting advanced telecommunication functions , the MNO gateway comprising:a communication interface that receives at least one message relating to a real-time communication request, wherein the at least one message includes information about at least one social network user that is making or is an intended recipient of said requested communication and that has a plan with the MNO, including a device identifier and at least one item of additional data; andfunctionality that uses said additional data pertaining said social network user for administering the plan with the MNO that is associated with said social network user.56. A MNO gateway according to claim 55 , wherein:the additional data includes information that identifies a social network application from which the real-time communication request was initiated.57. A MNO gateway according to claim 55 , wherein:the additional data includes information that identifies geographic location of the social network user initiating the real-time communication request or receiving the real-time communication.58. A MNO gateway according to claim 55 , wherein:the device identifier includes information that identifies a communication device for a social network user that initiated the real-time communication.59. A MNO gateway according to claim 58 , wherein:the communication device comprises a mobile communication device.60. A MNO gateway according to claim 55 , wherein:the device identifier includes information that identifies a communication device for a social network user that is an intended recipient of the requested real-time ...

Method of Using Spine Stabilization System With Dynamic Screw

A method of using a spine stabilization system in one embodiment includes inserting a bone fastener shank through a receiver structure cavity and then through a distal opening of the receiver member, positioning a head of the fastener against a bearing surface of the receiver structure, positioning a bearing member on an upper portion of the head, positioning a first pivot bearing portion of a pivot member above the positioned bearing member, positioning a pivot portion of a connector assembly on the positioned first pivot bearing portion, positioning a second pivot bearing portion of the pivot member on an upper portion of the pivot portion, and threading a fixation screw into a threaded portion of the receiver structure, thereby (i) causing the pivot member to clamp the pivot portion, and (ii) clamping the head of the screw between the first bearing and the bearing surface. 1inserting a bone fastener shank through a receiver structure cavity and then through a distal opening of the receiver member;positioning a head of the fastener against a bearing surface of the receiver structure;positioning a bearing member on an upper portion of the head;positioning a first pivot bearing portion of a pivot member above the positioned bearing member;positioning a pivot portion of a connector assembly on the positioned first pivot bearing portion;positioning a second pivot bearing portion of the pivot member on an upper portion of the pivot portion; andthreading a fixation screw into a threaded portion of the receiver structure, thereby (i) causing the pivot member to clamp the pivot portion, and (ii) clamping the head of the screw between the first bearing and the bearing surface.. A method of using a spine stabilization system, comprising: This application is a divisional of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 11/646,877 filed Dec. 28, 2006, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/ ...

Telecommunication Service Employing an Electronic Information Repository Storing Social Network User Information, Developer Information, and Mobile Network Operator Information

A telecommunication system that carries out telecommunication functions between multiple parties as initiated by the user interaction with a social network application, while maintaining privacy of the device identifiers (phone numbers or static IP addresses assigned to devices) of the participating parties. 154-. (canceled)55. A softswitch for use in a system supporting advanced telecommunication functions , the softswitch comprising:functionality configured to receive a request for initiating real-time communication involving at least one social network user; andfunctionality configured to generate at least one message for communication to at least one gateway of an MNO in response to receiving said request, wherein the at least one message includes information about at least one social network user that is making or is an intended recipient of said requested communication and that has a plan with the MNO, including a device identifier and at least one piece of additional data.56. A softswitch according to claim 55 , wherein:the request is generated by execution of a social network application by a social network user.57. A softswitch according to claim 56 , wherein:the additional data includes information that identifies the social network application from which the real-time communication request was initiated.58. A softswitch according to claim 55 , wherein:the additional data includes information that identifies geographic location of the social network user initiating the real-time communication request or receiving the real-time communication.59. A softswitch according to claim 55 , wherein:the device identifier includes information that identifies a communication device for a social network user that initiated the request.60. A softswitch according to claim 59 , wherein:the communication device comprises a mobile communication device.61. A softswitch according to claim 55 , wherein:the device identifier includes information that identifies a communication ...

SEAT-MOUNTED SUPPORTS FOR PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

The present technology relates generally to seat-mounted supports for personal electronic devices (“PEDs”), and associated systems and methods. Particular embodiments are directed to tablet or smartphone supports for mounting on an airplane seat. In some embodiments, a support system for restraining a PED includes a first panel configured for attachment to an airplane seat and a second panel having at least one restraining feature configured to restrain the PED against the second panel. The system further includes an intermediate portion pivotably connecting the first panel to the second panel. The system can include complementary engagement features on the first and second panels to adjust the angle of the first panel relative to the second panel. For example, in some embodiments, the first panel can pivot between a first position parallel to the second panel and a second position non-parallel to the second panel. 1. An article support system for use with a vehicle seat assembly having a seatback portion , the system comprising:an attachment portion attachable to the back portion of the seat;a support panel having a support surface and upper and lower edge portions adjacent to the support surface, the support panel being pivotally coupled to the attachment portion and moveable between deployed and stowed positions, the support panel configured to be releasably retained in the stowed position wherein the upper and lower edge portions are substantially immediately adjacent to the seatback portion, and when the support panel is in the deployed position the upper edge portion is adjacent to the seatback portion and the lower edge portion is spaced apart from the seatback portion, with the support surface facing away from the seatback portion at a selected inclined angle to support the article thereon; anda restraint connected to the support panel and positionable relative to the support surface to releasably engage and hold the article against the support surface when ...

CARGO NET ANCHOR GUARD

A cargo net anchor guard mountable to an aircraft's cargo hold wall adjacent to an anchor clip assemblies. The cargo net anchor guard is configured to block cargo from impacting at least the anchor clip assembly. The cargo net anchor guard has a ramped deflection surface that can deflect moving cargo inwardly away from the wall and into the cargo net substantially without impacting the anchor clip assembly. 1. An anchor guard for protecting an anchor clip projecting from a wall , comprising:a base having an engagement surface coupleable to the wall adjacent to the anchor clip, the base having a leading side facing the anchor clip and a curved trailing side facing away from the anchor clip;a contoured deflection member projecting from the base, the deflection member having a front face extending away from the base substantially normal to the wall and having a ramp portion with a sloped deflection surface extending from trailing side of the base to the front face, wherein the deflection surface is configured to a deflect moving items away from the wall and the anchor clip to prevent damage to the anchor clip.2. The anchor guard of wherein the deflection member is a quarter spherical deflection member.3. The anchor guard of wherein the front face is an arcuate face defining a concave area into which a portion of the anchor clip can be positioned.4. The anchor guard of wherein the leading side of the base has a concave recess positionable adjacent to the anchor clip.5. The anchor guard of wherein a peripheral portion of the base defines a flange projecting away from a periphery of the deflection member.6. The anchor guard of wherein the flange is tapered and narrows toward its peripheral edge immediately adjacent to the wall.7. The anchor guard of claim 5 , further comprising a covering layer over the flange to provide a smooth transition between the wall and the contoured deflection member.8. The anchor guard of wherein the base is tapered and configured to provide a ...

Systems, Methods, and Media for Harmonizing Procurement Across Distribution Networks With Heterogeneous Product Availability

In accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, mechanisms (which can, for example, include systems, methods, and media) for harmonizing procurement across distribution networks with heterogeneous product availability are provided. In some embodiments, a method for automatically generating an order guide for a facility associated with an organization is provided, the method comprising: presenting items available in first, second portions of a distribution network; presenting items available via the network; creating a general order guide, and adding a first item thereto; determining that the first item is unavailable and a second item is available in the first portion; identifying substitutes, including the second item, for the first item; generate a facility order guide with items in the first portion based on the general order guide; automatically selecting the second item for the facility order guide; and associating the facility order guide and facility. 1. A method for automatically generating order guides for a plurality of facilities associated with an organization , the method comprising:receiving, using at least one processor, a set of login information associated with a user via an application program interface (API);in response to receiving the set of login information, generating, using the at least one processor, a request for authentication data associated with the user, wherein the authentication data includes credentials stored in a unified database;upon authentication, causing a user interface to be presented to the user; wherein the organization is associated with at least the first portion of the distribution network corresponding to a first geographic area and the second portion of the distribution network corresponding to a second geographic area that is different from the first geographic area, and', 'wherein a first facility of the plurality of facilities is located within the first portion of the distribution network and ...

Method and use of organic and mineral admixtures for EMI and radioactive isotope shielding of building materials such as glass fiber wall coverings, gypsum wallboard and electrically conductive or resistive, high performance, high strength concrete

A method is disclosed for the use of an organic admixture composed of a polysaccharide such as hydroxypropylcellulose and a monosaccharide such as ethoxylated methylglucoside and de-ionized water and minerals such as zeolites for electromagnetic; radio and microwave frequency and radioisotope shielding of building materials such as wall liners, gypsum wallboard and high performance, high strength concrete. 119-. (canceled)20. “A method for producing building materials , the building materials selected from the group consisting of gypsum wallboard , mineral fiber acoustic ceiling tiles , mineral fiber acoustic panels , PVC laminated gypsum ceiling tiles , fiber glass ceiling panels , fiber glass acoustic panels , ceiling tiles and wall liners; the building materials containing a woven or nonwoven glass fiber paper substrate coated with an aqueous composition comprising a zeolite radiation absorbent acting as a trapping agent and a retention aid binder , the aqueous composition applied at a thickness of 0.001 in-0.002 in. , the method comprising the steps of:a) mixing at a ratio of 60-80% radiation absorbing zeolite and 40-20% retention aid binder in DI water at a pH 8-9 and a temperature of 28-30 deg. C for two minutes to create an aqueous composition, then;b) applying the aqueous composition by spraying, dipping or coating onto the glass fiber paper substrate, then,c) coating an organic composition over the aqueous composition, the organic composition comprising: hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) and Methyl Gluceth-20 (EMG) in 60-40% ratio (HPC:EMG) in DI water (20% vol).”21. “The method of producing building materials according to claim 20 , in which the zeolite radiation absorbent is selected from the group consisting of zeolites type X claim 20 , zeolite type A claim 20 , zeolite type Y claim 20 , ZSM-3 claim 20 , EMT claim 20 , EMC-2 claim 20 , ZSM-18 claim 20 , ZK5 claim 20 , ZSM-5 claim 20 , ZSM-11 claim 20 , .beta. claim 20 , L. charbazite claim 20 , offretite ...

Systems and methods for optimizing fit of an implant to anatomy

A system and method for pre-operatively optimizing a fit of an orthopaedic implant relative to a particular individuals anatomy is provided. The method includes: receiving information including a three-dimensional anatomic model of the individuals anatomy; computing a periphery of a simulated resection portion of the anatomic model without reference to any abnormal morphology; identifying a preliminary size for an orthopaedic implant component for use on the simulated resection surface; initially positioning the orthopaedic implant model relative to the simulated resection portion; generating random point sets around the peripheries of the simulated resection portion and the orthopaedic implant model; utilizing a position optimizer to determine whether the position of the orthopaedic implant periphery relative to the simulated resection portion periphery is optimal; determining whether the selected orthopaedic implant model results in overhang; and verifying the position of the orthopaedic implant and/or the size of the orthopaedic implant.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING FIT OF AN IMPLANT TO ANATOMY

A system and method for pre-operatively optimizing a fit of an orthopaedic implant relative to a particular individuals anatomy is provided. The method includes: receiving information including a three-dimensional anatomic model of the individuals anatomy; computing a periphery of a simulated resection portion of the anatomic model without reference to any abnormal morphology; identifying a preliminary size for an orthopaedic implant component for use on the simulated resection surface; initially positioning the orthopaedic implant model relative to the simulated resection portion; generating random point sets around the peripheries of the simulated resection portion and the orthopaedic implant model; utilizing a position optimizer to determine whether the position of the orthopaedic implant periphery relative to the simulated resection portion periphery is optimal; determining whether the selected orthopaedic implant model results in overhang; and verifying the position of the orthopaedic implant and/or the size of the orthopaedic implant. 111.-. (canceled)12. A method for pre-operatively optimizing a fit of an orthopaedic implant relative to an anatomy of an individual , the method comprising:receiving a three-dimensional anatomic model of the anatomy of the individualreceiving one or more simulated resection portions of the three-dimensional anatomic model;determining a grid system associated with the three-dimensional anatomic model;selecting, based on the three-dimensional anatomic model and the one or more simulated resection portions, an orthopaedic implant model corresponding to an orthopaedic implant and having an associated size;generating, based on the grid system, a first point set comprising a plurality of points at a periphery of the simulated resection portion;generating a second point set comprising a plurality of points at a periphery of the selected orthopaedic implant model;determining whether the position of the periphery of the selected ...

Telecommunication Service Employing an Electronic Information Repository Storing Social Network User Information, Developer Information, and Mobile Network Operator Information

A telecommunication system that carries out telecommunication functions between multiple parties as initiated by the user interaction with a social network application, while maintaining privacy of the device identifiers (phone numbers or static IP addresses assigned to devices) of the participating parties. 154-. (canceled)55. A telecommunication system for servicing communication involving social network users of an online social network service , comprising:device registration means to register a given device identifier for association with a respective social network user by communication between the telecommunication system and the device identified by the given device identifier;means for storing in an information repository in electronic form social network user information corresponding to a respective social network user, the social network user information comprising a user identifier and at least one device identifier associated with the respective social network user by the device registration logic block;messaging interface means to receive a message generated by a social network messaging application in response to a request to initiate a telecommunication function involving at least a first social network user, wherein the message comprises at least a first social network user identifier associated with the first social network user;access means to retrieve from the information repository a first device identifier associated with the first social network user identifier; andcontrol means to initiate the telecommunication function.56. The telecommunication system of claim 55 , wherein:the device registration means verifies possession of the device identified by the given device identifier by SMS communication between the telecommunication system and the device, which involves a first SMS message sent from the telecommunication system to the device as well as second SMS message sent from the device to a short code assigned to the telecommunication ...

SECURE MACHINE LEARNING USING SHARED DATA IN A DISTRIBUTED DATABASE

A secure machine learning system of a database system can be implemented to use secure shared data to train a machine learning model. To manage the model, a first user of the database can share data in an encrypted view with a second user of the database, and further share one or more functions of an application that accesses the data while the data is encrypted. The second user can access functions of the application and can call the functions to generate a trained machine learning model and further generate machine learning outputs (e.g., predictions) from the trained model. 1. A method comprising:sharing, on a distributed database, a database application to a first database of the distributed database, the database application generated by a second database of the distributed database, the database application comprising a machine learning model for training on a training dataset, the training dataset comprising a first database training dataset from the first database and a second database training dataset from the second database, the second database training dataset and the first database training dataset comprising columns of data of rows that have matching row identifiers;identifying a query from the second database to train the machine learning model on the training dataset, the query from the second database specifying columns from the first database training dataset and additional columns from the second database training dataset to join using the matching row identifiers to generate a joined dataset;generating, on the distributed database, a trained machine learning model by training the machine learning model on the joined dataset according to the query; andgenerating, on the distributed database, one or more outputs from the trained machine learning model by applying the trained machine learning model on new data.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein second dataset is encrypted in the database application by an encryption key of the second database.3. The ...

Control Module For A Powered Surgical Tool

A control module for a powered surgical tool. The module includes a shell. Internal to the shell is a circuit for controlling the power generating unit of the tool with which the module is associated. Conductive pins extend through the shell to provide electrical connections to the components within the shell. Active seals are disposed around the conductors and the inner walls of the shell that define the openings in which the pins are seated. Each active seal include an inner and outer skirt. A biasing component disposed between the skirts urges the inner skirt against the section of the conductive pin seated in the opening. The biasing component also urges the outer skirt against the adjacent opening-defining inner wall of the shell. The active seal functions as a barrier between the conductive pin and the adjacent inner wall of the shell. 1. A control module for a powered surgical tool comprising a housing , an attachment that extends from the housing for performing a surgical/medical task , and a power generating unit disposed in the housing and connected to the attachment for actuating the attachment , the control module comprising:a shell formed from at least one panel;a circuit board;at least one sensor disposed in the shell able to monitor an activity outside of the shell that is transmitted through a panel of the shell and that outputs a signal representative of the monitored activity to the circuit board; anda mount having a base shaped to define at least one slot, the slot being dimensioned so that the sensor can closely slip fit in the slot.2. The control module of claim 1 , further comprising a lid claim 1 , a spacer claim 1 , and an adhesive securing the mount to the spacer claim 1 , wherein the spacer positions the mount and the circuit board away from a bottom surface of the lid.3. The control module of further comprising at least one post that extends from the base.4. The control module of claim 3 , wherein the at least one post is mounted to the ...

Telecommunication Service Employing an Electronic Information Repository Storing Social Network User Information, Developer Information, and Mobile Network Operator Information

A telecommunication system that carries out telecommunication functions between multiple parties as initiated by the user interaction with a social network application, while maintaining privacy of the device identifiers (phone numbers or static IP addresses assigned to devices) of the participating parties. 154-. (canceled)55. A method for servicing communication involving social network users of an online social network service , comprising:registering a given device identifier for association with a respective social network user by communication to and from the device identified by the given device identifier given device;storing in an information repository in electronic form social network user information corresponding to a respective social network user, the social network user information comprising a user identifier and at least one device identifier associated with the respective social network user by the device registration logic block;receiving a message generated by a social network messaging application in response to a request to initiate a telecommunication function involving at least a first social network user, wherein the message comprises at least a first social network user identifier associated with the first social network user;retrieving from the information repository a first device identifier associated with the first social network user identifier; andinitiating the telecommunication function.56. The method of claim 55 , wherein:the registering verifies possession of the device identified by the given device identifier by SMS communication, which involves a first SMS message sent to the device as well as second SMS message sent from the device to an assigned short code.57. The method of claim 55 , wherein:the registering verifies possession of the device identified by the given device identifier through access to an interactive voice response system, which involves communication of an authentication code to the user and communication of ...

Composition, Method and Apparatus for Sulfite Removal from Beverages

Multipart functionalized materials are shown that remove sulfites from beverages and in particular wine. The functionalized materials consist of a solid support material having the ability to link polycarbonyls or polyamines thereto. The polycarbonyls and polyamines remove free and bound sulfites when put in contact with the beverage. The polycarbonyl and polyamine functionalized materials can be used separately or mixed together for accomplishing sulfite removal. 1. A functionalized material for removing sulfite from a beverage comprising:a solid support material, the solid support material having linking molecules on a surface thereof, sulfite removing molecules, and the linking molecules each linking a sulfite removing reacting molecule to the support material surface, the sulfite removing molecule for binding with and removing the sulfite from the beverage when placed in fluid contact therewith.2. The functionalized material as defined in wherein all the sulfite reacting removing molecules are carbonyl polymers.3. The functionalized material as defined in wherein the sulfite removing molecules are all amines claim 1 , all amine polymers or a combination thereof.4. The functionalized material as defined in wherein the sulfite removing molecules are all carbonyl polymers claim 1 , all amines claim 1 , all amine polymers or consist of a mixture of two or more thereof.5. The functionalized material of wherein the carbonyl polymers each include a carbonyl group in repeating units of the polymer.6. The functionalized material of wherein each carbonyl group contains conjugated double bonds in the alpha and beta positions thereto in each repeating unit of the carbonyl polymer.7. The functionalized material of wherein the carbonyl polymer is composed of polyglutaraldehyde.8. The functionalized material of where the amine polymer is a polybenzylamine or a polyethyleneimine.9. The functionalized material of where the amine polymer is a polybenzylamine and the carbonyl ...

Systems and methods for optimizing fit of an implant to anatomy

A system and method for pre-operatively optimizing a fit of an orthopaedic implant relative to a particular individuals anatomy is provided. The method includes: receiving information including a three-dimensional anatomic model of the individuals anatomy; computing a periphery of a simulated resection portion of the anatomic model without reference to any abnormal morphology; identifying a preliminary size for an orthopaedic implant component for use on the simulated resection surface; initially positioning the orthopaedic implant model relative to the simulated resection portion; generating random point sets around the peripheries of the simulated resection portion and the orthopaedic implant model; utilizing a position optimizer to determine whether the position of the orthopaedic implant periphery relative to the simulated resection portion periphery is optimal; determining whether the selected orthopaedic implant model results in overhang; and verifying the position of the orthopaedic implant and/or the size of the orthopaedic implant.

CONTROL MODULE FOR A POWERED SURGICAL TOOL, THE MODULE INCLUDING A SHELL HAVING ACTIVE SEALS DISPOSED AROUND THE CONDUCTIVE PINS THAT EXTEND INTO THE SHELL

A control module for a powered surgical tool. The module includes a shell. Internal to the shell is a circuit for controlling the power generating unit of the tool with which the module is associated. Conductive pins extend through the shell to provide electrical connections to the components within the shell. Active seals are disposed around the conductors and the inner walls of the shell that define the openings in which the pins are seated. Each active seal include an inner and outer skirt. A biasing component disposed between the skirts urges the inner skirt against the section of the conductive pin seated in the opening. The biasing component also urges the outer skirt against the adjacent opening-defining inner wall of the shell. The active seal functions as a barrier between the conductive pin and the adjacent inner wall of the shell. 1. A control module for regulating the operation of a powered surgical tool , said control module including:a shell, said shell configured for attachment to a powered surgical tool and said shell being formed with at least one opening:a circuit disposed in said shell for regulating operation of a power generating unit integral with the powered surgical tool;at least one conductive pin that extends through the at least one opening of said shell for establishing an electrical connection between said power generating unit and said circuit; and a first stop disposed in the at least one opening around said pin, said first stop extending to an inner surface of said shell that defines the shell opening;', 'a second stop disposed in the at least one opening around said pin said second stop extending to the inner surface of said shell that defines the shell opening, said second stop being spaced away from said first stop;', 'a seal unit disposed in the at least one opening around said conductive pin and between said first and second stops, said seal including: a boot, said boot shaped to have an inner skirt that extends around a section ...

BATTERY AND CONTROL MODULE FOR BOTH ENERGIZING AND CONTROLLING A POWERED SURGICAL TOOL THAT IS RELEASABLY ATTACHED TO THE MODULE

A battery and control module to which a powered surgical tool is releasably attached. Internal to the module there is: a cell for energizing the tool; a sensor for monitoring an operational state of the tool; a sensor for monitoring a trigger external to the module; and a control circuit. Based on the signals output by the sensors, the control circuit selectively applies energization signals from the cell to the power generating unit internal to the surgical tool. In some versions of the invention, the trigger is attached to the module. 1. A battery and control module for use with a surgical tool unit that includes a power generating unit and an energy applicator that is actuated by the power generating unit that is adapted for use to perform a medical/surgical procedure , said battery and control module comprising:a housing having a void space, said housing constructed so as to isolate the void space from the ambient environment;a latch feature integral with said housing that cooperates with the surgical tool unit to releasably hold the surgical tool unit to said housing;at least one rechargeable cell disposed in the housing void space;at least one contact mounted to said housing, said contact positioned to connect to a complementary contact connected to the surgical tool unit power generating unit;a user actuated switch mounted to said housing:at least one first sensor disposed in the housing void space, said first sensor configured to monitor a signal emitted by the tool unit representative of an operating state or condition of the power generating unit to, based on the monitored signal, output a first sensor signal;at least one second sensor disposed in the housing void space, said second sensor configured to monitor the state of said switch and to, based on the state of said switch, output a second sensor signal; anda tool unit controller disposed in the housing void space wherein said tool unit controller receives the first sensor signal and the second sensor ...

Component holding structures, system, and method

A component holding structure for holding a plurality of through-hole components having an axial lead includes a pair of opposing end walls that define a cavity between them. The cavity is configured to receive the through-hole components. The through-hole components are positioned between the pair of opposing end walls in a vertically-stacked configuration. Each one of the end walls includes at least one slot that is configured to receive the axial lead of each through-hole component when the plurality of through-hole components are inserted into the component holding structure. Each one of the end walls also includes a plurality of lead guides that are configured to guide the axial lead of each through-hole component when the plurality of through-hole components are inserted into the component holding structure.

Control Module For A Powered Surgical Tool, The Module Including A Shell Having Active Seals Disposed Around The Conductive Pins That Extend Into The Shell

A control module for a powered surgical tool. The module includes a shell. Internal to the shell is a circuit for controlling the power generating unit of the tool with which the module is associated. Conductive pins extend through the shell to provide electrical connections to the components within the shell. Active seals are disposed around the conductors and the inner walls of the shell that define the openings in which the pins are seated. Each active seal include an inner and outer skirt. A biasing component disposed between the skirts urges the inner skirt against the section of the conductive pin seated in the opening. The biasing component also urges the outer skirt against the adjacent opening-defining inner wall of the shell. The active seal functions as a barrier between the conductive pin and the adjacent inner wall of the shell. 1. (canceled)2. A control module for regulating the operation of a powered surgical tool , said control module including:a shell being formed with an opening:a circuit disposed in said shell for regulating operation of a power generating unit integral with the powered surgical tool;a conductive pin that extends through said opening of said shell for establishing an electrical connection between the power generating unit and said circuit; anda seal disposed in said opening around said conductive pin, said seal biased against said conductive pin.3. The control module of claim 2 , wherein said seal comprises a boot and a spring.4. The control module of claim 3 , wherein said spring is formed separate from said seal.5. The control module of claim 3 , wherein said shell is formed separate from said seal.6. The control module of claim 3 , wherein said spring is formed separate from said shell.7. The control module of claim 3 , wherein said boot comprises:an inner skirt extending around a section of said conductive pin that extends through said opening;an outer skirt disposed around said conductive pin and adjacent the inner surface of ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONCURRENTLY TESTING MULTIPLE PACKET DATA SIGNAL TRANSCEIVERS CAPABLE OF COMMUNICATING VIA MULTIPLE RADIO ACCESS TECHNOLOGIES

System and method for using a shared packet data signal source to test multiple packet data signal transceiver devices under test (DUTs) capable of communicating using multiple radio access technologies (RATs). The signal source provides a packet data signal that includes a plurality of sequential signal segments having respective signal timing parameters and mutually distinct signal characteristics in accordance with the RATs. Based upon the signal timing parameters, at least a portion of each signal segment is routed to a respective one of multiple signal connections for conveyance to a corresponding DUT. 1. An apparatus including a system for testing a plurality of packet data signal transceiver devices under test (DUTs) capable of communicating using a plurality of radio access technologies (RATs) , comprising:a plurality of signal connections to convey at least respective portions of a packet data signal to respective ones of a plurality of DUTs;a packet data signal source to provide said packet data signal, wherein said packet data signal includes a plurality of sequential signal segments having respective signal timing parameters including at least segment timing boundaries separating adjacent signal segments, and having mutually distinct signal characteristics in accordance with a plurality of RATs;signal routing circuitry coupled between said packet data signal source and said plurality of signal connections, and responsive to at least one or more routing control signals by routing at least a portion of each one of at least a portion of said plurality of sequential signal segments to a respective one of said plurality of signal connections; and at least a portion of a first one of said plurality of sequential signal segments is routed to a first one of said plurality of signal connections during a first time interval related to a first one of said respective signal timing parameters, and', 'at least a portion of a second one of said plurality of sequential ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EMBEDDING REPORT DESCRIPTORS INTO AN XML STRING TO ASSURE REPORT CONSISTENCY

A system stores report descriptors. The report descriptors are used in sections of reports. The reports include a report type and subject. The system generates a pseudo random number seed for use in selecting a first subset of the report descriptors for the reports on a first report subject, and stores the pseudo random number seed. The system retrieves the first subset of report descriptors for the reports on the first report subject based on the pseudo random number seed and subsequently generated random numbers, places the retrieved first subset of report descriptors into an XML string, and generates two or more reports relating to the first report subject using the first subset of report descriptors in the XML string. The two or more reports include at least two different report types, and each common section among the two or more reports includes the same report descriptors. 19-. (canceled)10. A system comprising: store and maintain a plurality of report construct descriptors, the report construct descriptors for use in a plurality of sections in a plurality of reports generated by the system, the reports comprising a report type and a report subject;', 'generate a pseudo random number seed for use in selecting a first subset of the report construct descriptors for the plurality of reports on a first report subject;', 'store the pseudo random number seed in the computer storage device;', 'retrieve the first subset of report construct descriptors for the plurality of reports on the first report subject based on the pseudo random number seed and subsequently generated random numbers;', 'place the retrieved first subset of report construct descriptors into an XML string; and', 'generate two or more reports relating to the first report subject using the first subset of report construct descriptors in the XML string;', 'wherein the two or more reports comprise at least two different report types, and wherein each common section among the two or more reports ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UTILIZING ASSESSMENTS

A system maintains job performance data for a plurality of persons employed in a plurality of occupations and maintains assessment data for the plurality of persons. Top performers in each of the plurality of occupations are identified as a function of the job performance data. The system receives assessment data for an individual person. The system compares the assessment data for the individual person with the assessment data for the top performers in each of the plurality of occupations. The system recommends one or more of the plurality of occupations to the individual person as a function of the comparison, such that the individual person is more likely to succeed in the one or more of the recommended occupations. 122-. (canceled)23. A system comprising: maintain in a computer storage device a database of job performance data for a plurality of persons employed in a plurality of occupations;', 'maintain in the database assessment data for the plurality of persons, the assessment data comprising cognitive assessment data, behavior assessment data, and interest assessment data;', 'identify top performers in each of the plurality of occupations as a function of the job performance data;', 'receive into the computer processor for an individual person cognitive assessment data, behavior assessment data, and interest assessment data;', 'compare the cognitive assessment data, behavior assessment data, and interest assessment data for the individual person with the cognitive assessment data, behavior assessment data, and interest assessment data for the top performers in each of the plurality of occupations; and', 'recommend one or more of the plurality of occupations to the individual person as a function of the comparison of the cognitive assessment data, behavior assessment data, and interest assessment data of the individual person with the cognitive assessment data, behavior assessment data, and interest assessment data of the top performers in each of the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING THREE DIMENSIONAL GRAPHICAL FIGURES IN AN ASSESSMENT

A system maintains a database of scores of job candidates or persons employed in a particular job or occupation. The scores are calculated from responses by the job candidates or the employed persons to inquiries about a display of a three dimensional graphical figure on a true three dimensional display device. The three dimensional graphical figure is displayed on the true three dimensional display device. The display of the three dimensional graphical figure is part of an assessment of a potential job candidate. The system presents an inquiry to the potential job candidate relating to the true three dimensional graphical figure, and receives a response to the inquiry from the potential job candidate. The system calculates a score for the potential job candidate based on the response of the potential job candidate. The system compares the score of the potential job candidate with the scores of the job candidates or the persons employed in a particular job or occupation, and generates the assessment of the potential job candidate based on the comparison. 123-. (canceled)24. A system comprising: maintain in the computer storage device a database of scores of job candidates or persons employed in a particular job or occupation, the scores calculated from responses by the job candidates or the employed persons to inquiries about a display of a three dimensional graphical figure on a true three dimensional display device;', 'display the three dimensional graphical figure on the true three dimensional display device, the display of the three dimensional graphical figure comprising an assessment of a potential job candidate;', 'present an inquiry to the potential job candidate relating to the display of the three dimensional graphical figure on the true three dimensional display device;', 'receive a response to the inquiry from the potential job candidate;', 'calculate a score for the potential job candidate based on the response of the potential job candidate;', 'compare ...

ORBITING CAMERA MOUNT WITH INTEGRATED ELECTRONIC CAMERA POSITIONING AND FUNCTIONAL CONTROL

An apparatus for operating an imaging device. The apparatus can include a platform assembly supporting the apparatus on a surface and extending in a first plane, a first arm rotatable about an axis of rotation orthogonal to the first plane, with the axis of rotation being disposed at the platform assembly. The apparatus can further include a second arm coupled to the first arm and extending in a second plane, a carriage slidably coupled to the second arm, with the carriage including a mount couplable to the imaging device, and the mount being tiltable in the second plane. The apparatus can further include at least one electronic system configured to control one or more of a rotation of the first arm, a sliding of the carriage, and a tilting of the mount. 1. An apparatus for operating an imaging device , comprising:a platform assembly supporting the apparatus on a surface and extending in a first plane;a first arm rotatable about an axis of rotation orthogonal to the first plane, the axis of rotation being disposed at the platform assembly;a second arm coupled to the first arm and extending in a second plane;a carriage slidably coupled to the second arm, the carriage including a mount couplable to the imaging device, the mount being tiltable in the second plane; andat least one control system configured to control one or more of a rotation of the first arm, a sliding of the carriage, and a tilting of the mount.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , the platform assembly further comprising a first plate supported on the surface and a second plate coupled to the first plate by a shaft disposed therebetween claim 1 , wherein the first arm is rotatably coupled to the shaft.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein:the second arm is pivotably coupled to the first arm proximate a first end of the first arm; anda counterweight is disposed proximate a second end of the first arm that is opposite the first end.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a first sheave disposed ...

Meeting Tracking

A method including: providing a workspace user interface to one or more users for the meeting; automatically recording first data including a join time and a leave time associated with each of the one or more users when the workspace user interface is in the meeting mode; automatically recording second data including a topic creation time and a topic creation user of the one or more users for each of the plurality of topic items when the workspace user interface is in either the planning mode or the meeting mode; automatically recording third data including an order in which the plurality of topic items were discussed when the workspace user interface is in the meeting mode; automatically recording fourth data including a start discussion time and a discussion timer for each of the plurality of topic items that were discussed when the workspace user interface is in the meeting mode; automatically recording fifth data including a note creation time, a note creation user of the one or more users, and a note topic item of the plurality of topic items for each of one or more notes created by the one or more users when the workspace user interface is in either the planning mode or the meeting mode and associated with the note topic item; automatically recording sixth data including a meeting tool creation time, a meeting tool creation user of the one or more users, one or more meeting tool activity times, one or more meeting tool results, and a meeting tool topic item of the plurality of topic items for each of one or more meeting tools created by the one or more users and associated with the meeting tool topic item; generating a report; and providing the report to at least one of the one or more users. Other embodiments are provided. 1. A method for tracking a meeting , the method comprising:providing a workspace user interface to one or more users for the meeting, the workspace user interface comprising a plurality of topic items in one or more lists, the workspace ...

Meeting Management

A method including: providing a workspace user interface to one or more users for the meeting; displaying on the workspace user interface of each of the one or more users in the planning mode the plurality of topic items in the agenda list; receiving from the one or more users through the workspace user interface in the planning mode a first input to reorder the plurality of topic items in the agenda list; displaying on the workspace user interface of each of the one or more users in the planning mode the plurality of topic items in the agenda list as reordered by the first input; receiving from one of the one or more users a second input though the workspace user interface in the planning mode to activate the meeting mode; displaying on the workspace user interface of each of the one or more users in the meeting mode the plurality of topic items in the agenda list with a budgeted time for each of the plurality of topic items; receiving from one of the one or more users through the workplace user interface in the meeting mode successive selections of first selected topic items from among the plurality of topic items in the agenda list to activate discussion regarding the first selected topic items according to an order of the successive selections of the first selected topic items; and displaying on the workspace user interface of each of the one or more users in the meeting mode each of the first selected topic items individually in the order of the successive selections of the first selected topic items along with at least one of an amount of budgeted time remaining or actual times spent on discussions related to each of the first selected topic items. Other embodiments are provided. 1. A method for managing a meeting , the method comprising:providing a workspace user interface to one or more users for the meeting, the workspace user interface comprising a plurality of topic items in an agenda list, the workspace user interface comprising a planning mode and a ...

Telecommunication Service Employing an Electronic Information Repository Storing Social Network User Information, Developer Information, and Mobile Network Operator Information

A telecommunication system that carries out telecommunication functions between multiple parties as initiated by the user interaction with a social network application, while maintaining privacy of the device identifiers (phone numbers or static IP addresses assigned to devices) of the participating parties. 154-. (canceled)55. A method for servicing communication involving social network users of an online social network service , comprising:registering a given device identifier for association with a respective social network user by communication to and from the device identified by the given device identifier given device;storing in an information repository in electronic form social network user information corresponding to a respective social network user, the social network user information comprising a user identifier and at least one device identifier associated with the respective social network user by the device registration logic block;receiving a message generated by a social network messaging application in response to a request to initiate a telecommunication function involving at least a first social network user, wherein the message comprises at least a first social network user identifier associated with the first social network user;retrieving from the information repository a first device identifier associated with the first social network user identifier; andinitiating the telecommunication function.56. The method of claim 55 , wherein:the registering verifies possession of the device identified by the given device identifier by SMS communication, which involves a first SMS message sent to the device as well as second SMS message sent from the device to an assigned short code.57. The method of claim 55 , wherein:the registering verifies possession of the device identified by the given device identifier through access to an interactive voice response system, which involves communication of an authentication code to the user and communication of ...

Patient specific implant technology

Patient specific implant technology, in which an outline representation of a portion of an outer surface of a periphery of a bone volume is determined and the outline representation is used in operations related to implant matching. In addition, an instrument may be made to match a perimeter shape of a Patient Specific Knee Implant with features for locating holes in a distal femur such that posts or lugs in a femoral implant locate the femoral implant centered medial-laterally within an acceptable degree of precision to prevent overhang of either the side of the femoral implant over the perimeter of the distal femur bone resections. Further, a two-dimensional outline representation may be segmented into segments that correspond to resection cuts used in fitting an implant on a portion of a bone and operations related to implant matching may be performed based on the segments.

LOW CEMENT SPINEL STABILIZED SILICON CARBIDE COMPOSITE MATERIAL

An oxidation resistant low cement silicon carbide composite material, including a high alumina cement matrix portion in an amount of about 8 weight percent, a high alumina spinel portion in an amount between about 5 weight percent and about 20 weight percent, a silica fume portion in an amount of about 8 percent, a chrome aluminum stainless steel alloy needle additive portion, and a silicon carbide portion in an amount defining a remainder of the composition. The high alumina cement portion contains about 68 weight percent alumina and about 31 weight percent calcia, and the high alumina spinel portion contains about 78 weight percent alumina and about 22 weight percent magnesia. 1. An oxidation resistant low cement silicon carbide composite composition , comprising in combination:a high alumina cement matrix portion in an amount between about 5 weight percent and about 10 weight percent;a high alumina spinel portion in an amount between about 5 weight percent and about 20 weight percent;a silica portion in an amount of between about 5 and about 12 percent; anda silicon carbide refractory aggregate portion in an amount defining a remainder of the composition, wherein the high alumina cement portion contains at least about 65 weight percent alumina; andwherein the high alumina spinel portion contains at least about 70 weight percent alumina.2. The composition of and further comprising an additive portion in an amount of no more than about 5 weight percent.3. The composition of wherein the additive portion is selected from the group including fibers claim 2 , needles claim 2 , generally round aggregate claim 2 , rods claim 2 , whiskers claim 2 , needles claim 2 , and combinations thereof4. The composition of wherein the additive portion is a plurality of chrome aluminum stainless steel alloy needles.5. The composition of wherein the alumina cement portion contains a first alumina portion and a first remainder portion claim 1 , and wherein the first remainder portion is ...

Zeolite coated nasal mask and disposable particulate respirator filtration media

A method and use of Zeolite coated nasal mask and disposable particulate respirator filtration media that will absorb air pollutants such as NOx, Ozone, PM 2.5 and radioisotopes of cesium, strontium and polonium (the progeny of radon gas) and protect the wearer from inhalation of said deleterious agents.

LINEAR ACCELERATOR SYSTEM WITH STABLE INTERLEAVED AND INTERMITTENT PULSING

A linac-based X-ray system for cargo scanning and imaging applications uses linac design, RF power control, beam current control, and beam current pulse duration control to provide stable sequences of interleaved pulses having different energy levels, for example alternating 4 MeV and 6 MeV pulses or other energies where the difference in levels is at least approximately 1 MeV and less than approximately 5 MeV. The pulse repetition rate can be 100-400 pulses per second or more. In an embodiment, a cool down calculation is combined with automatic frequency control to provide stable energy and dose per pulse even upon restarting of pulsing after an “off” period of indeterminate duration. 1. An X-ray system for providing alternating X-ray pulses of first and second energies with controlled dose per pulse comprisinga linear accelerator having resonance with a bandwidth,a magnetron for supplying as an output RF energy to the linear accelerator at alternating first and second power levels with corresponding first and second frequencies,an electron gun driver, operating independently of the magnetron, for supplying to the linac alternating pulses of first and second beam currents at times substantially corresponding to the alternating first and second RF power levels, and wherein the bandwidth of the linac resonance is sufficiently broad to allow coupling of the magnetron output to the linac at the first and second RF power levels such that the first and second energies of the X-ray pulses are at least 1 MeV apart and less than 5 MeV apart with controlled dose per pulse.2. The system of wherein the dose delivered by the high energy pulses in comparison to the dose delivered by the low energy pulses is a controllable ratio.3. The system of where the ratio is substantially one.4. The system of wherein the ratio is substantially different from one.5. A linac system for providing pulses with stable dose per pulse when pulsed intermittently claim 2 , comprisinga power source ...

Method and use of organic and mineral admixtures for EMI and radioisotope shielding of air filtration media and building materials, for absorption of airborne particulates and for climate change mitigation

The invention of high efficient multipurpose air filtration media for absorption of greenhouse gases such as COfor climate change mitigation (lessening the severity of global warming) and absorption of airborne particulates (PM 0.5 μ-2.5 μ) and the electromagnetic and radioactive isotope shielding of building materials such as wall liners and wall coverings and reflective ceiling insulation using an absorbent organic admixture composed of a polysaccharide such as Hydroxypropylcellulose, a synergistic monosaccharide such as ethoxylated methylglucoside and de-ionized water and mineral additives such as TiO, Zeolites (Heu & Ca-A(5A)) and boehmites (Curie Formula) is disclosed. 1. A Method of producing wall coverings and air filtration media containing absorbent materials including Clinoptilolite (HEU) or Ca-A , Type 5A (Zeolite) as the trapping agent dissolved in de-ionized water along with a retention aid and a sealant polymer (Curie Formula) coated onto woven or nonwoven glass fibers or cellulose based paper and/or polypropylene reinforced spunbond media for the purposes of providing EMI and radioisotope shielding of building materials , for absorption of airborne particulates such as PM 0.5-2.5 and for absorbing COfor climate change mitigation comprising:a) the step of mixing radiation absorbing materials˜60-80%-325 mesh zeolites and correspondingly 40-20% boehmite (retention aid) binder in de-ionized water (5:1 ratio) at pH 8-9, specifically 8.5-8.9 at 28-30° C., specifically 28.8° C., and an organic polymer containing Hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC)+Ethoxylated Methylglucoside (EMG)˜60%:40% (ratio) (to minimize particle separation from the substrate creating dust), for two (2) minutes, then,b) the step of applying (spraying or dipping) or coating the absorbing material onto one side or both sides of a [cellulose paper, glass fiber paper or polypropylene reinforced spunbond meltblown air filtration media and aluminum foil backed paper] substrate,then,{'sup': 7', '7, ' ...

PROCESS FOR INCREASING ETHYLENE AND PROPYLENE YIELD FROM A PROPYLENE PLANT

The disclosure provides a process for recovery of Cand Ccomponents in an on-purpose propylene production system utilizing a packed rectifier with a countercurrent stream to strip Cand Ccomponents from a combined de-ethanizer overhead lights vapor and cracked gas vapor stream. 1. A process for recovery of Cand Ccomponents via an on-purpose propylene production system comprising:cooling a combined de-ethanizer overhead light vapor and cracked gas vapor to a temperature at which at least 80 wt % of the vapor is condensed to form a first partial condensate and a first residual vapor;passing the first partial condensate to a bottom portion of a rectifier;{'sub': 2', '1', '3', '1', '2', '3, 'passing the first residual vapor up through packing of the rectifier while contacting the first residual vapor with a countercurrent stream which comprises from 75 to 95 wt % Ccomponents, from 5 to 25 wt % Ccomponents and from 0 to 5 wt % Ccomponents thereby producing a rectifier overhead stream which comprises from 20 to 45 wt % Ccomponents, from 40 to 60 wt % Ccomponents and from 0 to 5 wt % Ccomponents and a rectifier liquid bottom stream;'}passing the rectifier liquid bottom stream to the de-ethanizer;{'sub': 2', '2, 'partially condensing the rectifier overhead stream in one or more heat exchanger stages to cool the rectifier overhead stream to produce a second partial condensate with a second residual vapor which comprises less than 5 wt % Ccomponents and a first residual liquid which comprises from 75 to 95% Ccomponents;'}passing the combined second residual vapor and first residual liquid to a knockout drum to separate the second residual vapor from the first residual liquid;optionally, using the second residual vapor as a fuel gas and/or as a cooling medium in the one or more heat exchanger stages;passing a first portion of the second residual liquid to a top portion of the packing in the rectifier to serve as the countercurrent stream; andpassing a second portion of the ...

Patient specific implant technology

Patient specific implant technology, in which an outline representation of a portion of an outer surface of a periphery of a bone volume is determined and the outline representation is used in operations related to implant matching. In addition, an instrument may be made to match a perimeter shape of a Patient Specific Knee Implant with features for locating holes in a distal femur such that posts or lugs in a femoral implant locate the femoral implant centered medial-laterally within an acceptable degree of precision to prevent overhang of either the side of the femoral implant over the perimeter of the distal femur bone resections. Further, a two-dimensional outline representation may be segmented into segments that correspond to resection cuts used in fitting an implant on a portion of a bone and operations related to implant matching may be performed based on the segments.

Scanning Linear Accelerator System Having Stable Pulsing at Multiple Energies and Doses

A linac-based X-ray system for cargo scanning and imaging applications uses linac design, RF power control, beam current control, and beam current pulse duration control to provide stable sequences of pulses having different energy levels or different doses. 1. A method for generating an alternating series of X-ray pulses of different energies comprising the steps ofproviding an electron accelerator with a resonance bandwidth, the electron accelerator including an electron gun and a target,providing to the electron accelerator a plurality of pulses of alternating RF powers, each of the RF pulses having an RF pulsewidth, such that a pulse of a higher RF power is followed by a pulse of a lower RF power, and the RF powers are sufficiently similar that the frequency difference of the alternating pulses of RF power is within the resonance bandwidth of the electron accelerator,providing to the electron gun a plurality of current pulses of electrons of alternating currents, each current pulse synchronized to occur within the RF pulsewidth of the corresponding higher and lower RF power pulses, andcontrolling the duration of the current pulses, such that the combination of alternating RF power pulses and alternating current pulses of electrons causes the electron accelerator to emit pulses of alternating energies of at least 2 Mev that strike a target which in response emits X-rays of alternating energy levels each having a dose in a controllable ratio and the alternating energy levels having an energy difference of not less than 1 Mev.2. The method of wherein the ratio is approximately 1:1.3. The method of wherein the ratio is substantially different from 1:1.4. The method of wherein the pulses of alternating energies comprises pulses of approximately 4 Mev and 6 Mev.5. A linac system for providing pulses with stable dose per pulse during periods of scanning claim 1 , comprising:a power source for supplying power,an RF source with a controllable output frequency for ...

Linear accelerator system for stable pulsing at multiple dose levels

A linac-based X-ray system for cargo scanning and imaging applications uses linac design, RF power control, beam current control, and beam current pulse duration control to provide stable sequences of pulses having different energy levels or different dose.

Systems, Methods, and Media for Managing Inventory Associated With a Facility

In accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, mechanisms (which can, for example, include systems, apparatuses, methods, and media) for managing inventory associated with a facility are provided. In some embodiments, a method is provided comprising: receiving identifying information of items; causing a mobile device to present a subset of items in a user interface; receiving transmitting device identification information, the device associated with a first location; determining, based on the transmitter identifying information, a location of the mobile device within the facility; receiving an indication items are being stored at the location of the mobile device; associating the items with the location; causing a computing device to present a user interface that includes identifying information associated with the items in connection with a location of the items. 1. A method for automatically addressing recall of items in an inventory , the method comprising:receiving, from a remote computing device, information indicating that one or more items are subject to a recall;determining, based on the information and without user intervention, that one or more items stored in a facility are potentially recalled;causing an alert to be issued to a user associated with the facility, wherein the alert indicates that one or more potentially recalled items are stored in the facility;prompting the user to perform a task associated with a first potentially recalled item associated with a storage location;causing a mobile device to present identifying information associated with the first potentially recalled item in a user interface in connection with identifying information associated with the storage location;receiving, from the mobile device, identifying information associated with a transmitting device;determining, based on the identifying information associated with the transmitting device, that a first location within the facility corresponding to a ...

Systems, Methods, and Media for Harmonizing Procurement Across Distribution Networks With Heterogeneous Product Availability

In accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, mechanisms (which can, for example, include systems, methods, and media) for harmonizing procurement across distribution networks with heterogeneous product availability are provided. In some embodiments, a method for automatically generating an order guide for a facility associated with an organization is provided, the method comprising: presenting items available in first, second portions of a distribution network; presenting items available via the network; creating a general order guide, and adding a first item thereto; determining that the first item is unavailable and a second item is available in the first portion; identifying substitutes, including the second item, for the first item; generate a facility order guide with items in the first portion based on the general order guide; automatically selecting the second item for the facility order guide; and associating the facility order guide and facility. 1. A method for automatically generating order guides for a plurality of facilities associated with an organization , the method comprising: 'wherein a first facility of the plurality of facilities is located within a first portion of the distribution network and is not located within a second portion of the distribution network;', 'receiving, via a user interface, a request to present items available via a distribution network including a distributor,'}causing the user interface to present a plurality of selectable user interface elements, each of the plurality of selectable user interface elements corresponding to an item available from the distributor; 'wherein the general order guide is useable to create a plurality of facility order guides, each of the plurality of facility order guides corresponding to a respective facility of the plurality of facilities associated with the organization;', 'determining that a first item that is included in a general order guide associated with the ...

Saw For Blade Having Deformable Lock Teeth

A surgical saw comprises a body, a coupling assembly, and a motor. The coupling assembly is mounted to the body and adapted to releasably hold a saw blade. The coupling assembly includes an anvil, a press, and a clamping assembly. The anvil has a channel or a press foot. The press has the other of the press foot and the channel. The press foot is receivable by the channel. The clamping assembly selectively moves the press and the anvil towards and away from each other. When the press is brought towards the anvil, the press foot may press a lock tooth of the saw blade into the channel so that the lock tooth is compressed between the anvil and the press to coin the lock tooth. The motor, internal to the body, is connected to the coupling assembly to reciprocate the coupling assembly and the saw blade. 119-. (canceled)20. A surgical saw the saw comprising:a body; an anvil having one of a channel and a press foot,', 'a press having the other of the press foot and the channel wherein the press foot is capable of being received in the channel, and', 'a clamping assembly connecting the press and the anvil and selectively moving the press and the anvil towards and away from each other wherein, when the press is brought towards the anvil, the press foot presses a lock tooth of the saw blade into the channel so that the lock tooth is compressed between the anvil and the press to coin the lock tooth; and, 'a coupling assembly mounted to the body and adapted to releasably hold a saw blade to the coupling assembly, the coupling assembly includinga motor internal to the body connected to the coupling assembly so as to reciprocate the coupling assembly and likewise reciprocate the saw blade held by the coupling assembly.21. The surgical saw of claim 20 , wherein:the channel is defined by a space between two islands; anda stop foot is spaced from and adjacent to the press foot and the stop foot is positioned to seat against one of the islands when the press foot presses the lock ...

ALGORITHM-BASED OPTIMIZATION FOR KNEE ARTHROPLASTY PROCEDURES

A method for optimizing a knee arthroplasty surgical procedure includes receiving pre-operative data comprising (i) anatomical measurements of the patient, (ii) soft tissue measurements of the patient's anatomy, and (iii) implant parameters identifying an implant to be used in the knee arthroplasty surgical procedure. An equation set is selected from a plurality of pre-generated equation sets based on the pre-operative data. During the knee arthroplasty surgical procedure, patient-specific kinetic and kinematic response values are generated and displayed using an optimization process. The optimization process includes collecting intraoperative data from one or more surgical tools of a computer-assisted surgical system, and using the intraoperative data and the pre-operative data to solve the equation set, thereby yielding the patient-specific kinetic and kinematic response values. A visualization is then provided of the patient-specific kinetic and kinematic response values on the displays. 1. A method for optimizing a knee arthroplasty surgical procedure , the method comprising:receiving pre-operative data comprising (i) anatomical measurements of the patient, (ii) soft tissue measurements of the patient's anatomy, and (iii) implant parameters identifying an implant to be used in the knee arthroplasty surgical procedure;selecting an equation set from a plurality of pre-generated equation sets based on the pre-operative data; and collecting intraoperative data from one or more surgical tools of a computer-assisted surgical system,', 'using the intraoperative data and the pre-operative data to solve the equation set, thereby yielding the plurality of patient-specific kinetic and kinematic response values, and', 'providing a visualization of the patient-specific kinetic and kinematic response values on the displays., 'during the knee arthroplasty surgical procedure, providing patient-specific kinetic and kinematic response values on one or more displays using an ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMPUTING PORTFOLIO ALLOCATION RECOMMENDATIONS

An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a portfolio insights observation engine. The observation engine performs: identifying a portfolio; identifying one or more goals and concerns specific to the portfolio; selecting a benchmark model portfolio; identifying a set of metrics for comparison between the portfolio and the benchmark model portfolio; evaluating one or more deviations relative to the set of metrics associated with the benchmark model portfolio; applying the one or more goals and concerns to the deviations; generating observations based on the benchmark portfolio; ranking the observations based on risk; identifying a subset of ranked observations; and providing, via the interactive interface, customized insights and solutions for each of the ranked observations. 1. A system for implementing a portfolio insights observation engine , the system comprising:a memory component that stores portfolio data and observations data;an interactive interface that communicates with a user via a network communication; and identifying a portfolio;', 'identifying one or more goals and concerns specific to the portfolio;', 'selecting a benchmark model portfolio;', 'identifying a set of metrics for comparison between the portfolio and the benchmark model portfolio;', 'evaluating one or more deviations relative to the set of metrics associated with the benchmark model portfolio;', 'applying the one or more goals and concerns to the deviations;', 'generating observations based on the benchmark portfolio;', 'ranking the observations based on risk;', 'identifying a subset of ranked observations; and', 'providing, via the interactive interface, customized insights and solutions for each of the ranked observations., 'a processor coupled to the memory component and the interactive interface, the processor configured to perform the steps of2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to: receive a user input relating to the observations.3. The ...

SURGICAL SAW AND COMPLEMENTARY SAW BLADE, THE BLADE INCLUDING LOCK TEETH FORMED OUT OF MATERIAL THAT DEFORMS WHEN THE BLADE IS SECURED TO THE SAW

A surgical saw and complementary blade. The blade has lock teeth that are more ductal than the cutting teeth. The saw coupling assembly has an anvil and a press. The saw coupling assembly holds the blade to the saw by compressing the saw lock teeth between the anvil and the press so as to result the coining of the lock teeth. 1. A blade for use with a surgical saw , said blade including:a blade body with opposed proximal and distal sections; andcutting teeth that extend outwardly from the distal section of the blade body; andat least one lock tooth that extends from a proximal section of the blade body,wherein said blade, including said body, said cutting teeth and said is a single piece assembly and is further formed so that at least a section of the at least one lock tooth is formed from material that is relatively ductal and said cutting teeth are formed from material that is harder than the material forming the ductal section of said at least one lock tooth.2. The blade of claim 1 , wherein said blade is further formed so that said at least one lock tooth has a tooth body that has a thickness across opposed faces of said tooth body and at least one wing that extends outwardly from said tooth body so as to define a perimeter of said lock tooth claim 1 , said at least one wing having a thickness across opposed faces of said wing that is less than the thickness across said tooth body.3. The blade of claim 2 , wherein said at least one lock tooth is formed so that said at least one wing is more ductal than the body of said at least one lock tooth.4. The blade of where said at least one lock tooth is formed so the at least one wing and the body of said at least one lock tooth have a common ductility.5. The blade of claim 2 , wherein said at least one lock tooth is further formed so that as said wing extends away from the body of said at least one lock tooth claim 2 , the thickness across the opposed faces of said wing decreases.6. The blade of claim 2 , wherein said ...

WIRELESS REMOTE MONITORING OF SUPPLY BINS

A provisioning system includes a plurality of supply bins each having a bottom wall and a peripheral wall extending upward from the bottom wall to define a bin interior. A sensor module is disposed in each bin interior. The sensor module includes an RF interface capable of providing wireless communication and a sensor capable of detecting items in the bin interior and communicating via the RF interface based upon a quantity of the items detected by the sensor in the bin interior. An RF reader reads all of the RF interfaces in the supply bins in a supply room to determine what items need to be resupplied. 1. A supply bin comprising:a bottom wall; anda peripheral wall extending upward from the bottom wall to define a bin interior;a sensor module in the bin interior, the sensor module including an RF interface capable of providing wireless communication and a sensor capable of detecting items in the bin interior and communicating via the RF interface based upon a quantity of the items detected by the sensor in the bin interior.2. The supply bin of wherein the sensor includes a contact switch.3. The supply bin of in combination with an RFID reader capable of reading the RF interface to determine the quantity of items detected by the sensor in the bin interior.4. The supply bin and RFID reader of claim 3 , wherein the supply bin is one of a plurality of supply bins in a supply room being interrogated by the RFID reader.5. The supply bins and RFID reader of further including a computer capable of receiving inventory information from a plurality of RFID readers including the RFID reader claim 4 , in a plurality of supply rooms including the supply room.6. The supply bin of wherein the sensor includes a pressure switch.7. The supply bin of wherein the supply bin is one of a plurality of supply bins in one of a plurality of supply rooms each containing a plurality of the supply bins claim 6 , each supply room including an RFID reader capable of reading the RF interface in ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING PARAMETERS OF ORTHOPAEDIC PROCEDURES

Systems and methods for optimizing parameters of an orthopaedic procedure for a particular patient, including parameters relating to the anatomic and biomechanic fit of an implant or implant system implanted into the patient's joint. These systems and methods may utilize patient-specific information gathered pre-operatively in conjunction with optimization algorithms to determine an optimal implant design and an optimal position and orientation for implantation of the implant into the particular patient's joint. 116-. (canceled)17. A method of optimizing parameters relating to a joint procedure involving the implantation of an orthopaedic implant into a joint of a patient , the method comprising: information relating to a model of the joint of the patient, wherein the information relating to the model defines a plurality of soft tissue attachment locations, and', 'information relating to an axis associated with the joint of the patient in relation to the model of the joint of the patient;, 'receiving, by a computer processor, information concerning the patient includingreceiving, by the computer processor, information that defines a relationship relating a plurality of orthopaedic responses to a plurality of orthopaedic factors;automatically determining, by the computer processor, a suggested optimal articular surface shape geometry for the orthopaedic implant and one or more of a suggested optimal position and a suggested optimal orientation for the orthopaedic implant relative to the joint of the patient based on the received information relating to the model, the received information relating to the axis, and the received information that defines a relationship; andoutputting, by the computer processor, information concerning the suggested optimal articular surface shape geometry for the orthopaedic implant and the one or more of the suggested optimal position and the suggested optimal orientation for the orthopaedic implant relative to the joint of the patient. ...

SYSTEM AND GARMENT FOR MINIMIZING CLEAN ENVIRONMENT CONTAMINATION

Garments and corresponding systems for preventing contamination of a clean environment are provided. The garment is formed, at least in part, of a filter medium such that air within the garment is permitted to pass from within the garment, through the filter medium, and into the surrounding environment while contaminants are retained by the filter medium. The garment may be substantially formed of the filter medium or may include one or more filter panels arranged around a substantially impermeable portion of the garment. The garment may further include a forced air inlet for coupling the garment to a forced air supply such as a powered respirator or an air handler. Forced air may then be supplied into the garment to further facilitate air circulation and filtration. 1. A garment for preventing contamination of a clean environment by a wearer of the garment , the garment comprising:a garment body defining an internal volume and configured to at least partially encapsulate the wearer, the garment body formed, at least in part, of a filter medium, wherein the filter medium is configured to permit air to pass from the internal volume into the clean environment while substantially retaining one or more contaminants, wherein the filter medium comprises one of a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter medium and an ultra-low particulate air (ULPA) filter medium.2. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the garment body is substantially formed of the filter medium.3. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the garment body comprises:a first garment portion formed of a first material, wherein the first material is substantially impermeable to air and the one or more contaminants, anda second garment portion formed of the filter medium.4. The garment of claim 4 , wherein the second garment portion is a filter panel configured to be selectively attached to the garment body.5. The garment of further comprising:a forced air inlet disposed on the garment body, the forced air inlet ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING FIT OF AN IMPLANT TO ANATOMY

A system and method for pre-operatively optimizing a fit of an orthopaedic implant relative to a particular individuals anatomy is provided. The method includes: receiving information including a three-dimensional anatomic model of the individuals anatomy; computing a periphery of a simulated resection portion of the anatomic model without reference to any abnormal morphology; identifying a preliminary size for an orthopaedic implant component for use on the simulated resection surface; initially positioning the orthopaedic implant model relative to the simulated resection portion; generating random point sets around the peripheries of the simulated resection portion and the orthopaedic implant model; utilizing a position optimizer to determine whether the position of the orthopaedic implant periphery relative to the simulated resection portion periphery is optimal; determining whether the selected orthopaedic implant model results in overhang; and verifying the position of the orthopaedic implant and/or the size of the orthopaedic implant. 111-. (canceled)12. A method for pre-operatively optimizing a fit of an orthopaedic implant relative to an anatomy of an individual , the method comprising:receiving information including a three-dimensional anatomic model of the anatomy of the individual;identifying an abnormal morphology at a periphery of a simulated resection portion of the three-dimensional anatomic model;determining a modified periphery of the simulated resection portion that excludes the identified abnormal morphology;selecting an orthopaedic implant model corresponding to an orthopaedic implant and having an associated size;positioning the selected orthopaedic implant model relative to the simulated resection portion;generating a first random point set comprising a plurality of points at the modified periphery of the simulated resection portion;generating a second random point set comprising a plurality of points at a periphery of the selected orthopaedic ...

Systems, Methods, and Media for Managing Inventory Associated With a Facility

In accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, mechanisms (which can, for example, include systems, apparatuses, methods, and media) for managing inventory associated with a facility are provided. In some embodiments, a method is provided comprising: receiving identifying information of items; causing a mobile device to present a subset of items in a user interface; receiving transmitting device identification information, the device associated with a first location; determining, based on the transmitter identifying information, a location of the mobile device within the facility; receiving an indication items are being stored at the location of the mobile device; associating the items with the location; causing a computing device to present a user interface that includes identifying information associated with the items in connection with a location of the items. 1. A method for automatically associating items in an inventory with location information corresponding to a portion of a facility , the method comprising:receiving identifying information associated with a plurality of items;causing a mobile device to present at least a subset of the plurality of items in a user interface;receiving, from the mobile device, identifying information associated with a transmitting device, wherein the transmitting device is associated with a first location within the facility;determining, based on the identifying information associated with the transmitting device, a second location within the facility corresponding to a location of the mobile device;receiving, from the mobile device, an indication that one or more items of the plurality of items is being stored at the location of the mobile device;associating the one or more items with the second location and receiving, from a computing device, a request to present information about items stored at the first facility;causing the computing device to present a user interface that includes identifying ...

Linear Accelerator System for Stable Pulsing at Multiple Dose Levels

A linac-based X-ray system for cargo scanning and imaging applications uses linac design, RF power control, beam current control, and beam current pulse duration control to provide stable sequences of pulses having different energy levels or different dose. 141-. (canceled)42. An X-ray system for providing a plurality of X-ray pulses of controlled dose per pulse , each of the plurality comprising different energy or different dose characteristics , or both , comprisinga linear accelerator having resonance for outputting pulses of high energy electrons and configured to strike a target to thereby generate a plurality of X-ray pulses,a magnetron responsive to a first control signal for supplying RF energy pulses to the linear accelerator at a plurality of RF power levels with a corresponding plurality of frequencies,an electron gun driver, operating independently of the magnetron by being responsive to a second control signal different from the first control signal, for supplying to the linear accelerator pulses of beam currents at times substantially corresponding to an associated one of the RF energy pulses at a plurality of RF power levels, and wherein the magnetron output couples to the linear accelerator at the plurality of RF power levels such that the energies of X-ray pulses resulting from at least two of the plurality of pulses of high energy electrons have controlled dose per pulse, at least one of the resulting plurality of X-ray pulses is at a reduced dose relative to at least one other of the resulting plurality of X-ray pulses wherein the reduced dose X-ray pulses are used to scan the passenger compartment of a vehicle and the X-ray pulses that are not reduced dose are used to scan the cargo compartment of a vehicle. This application is related to and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/192,864, filed on Feb. 27, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,622,333, and also is related to and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/ ...

Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device

An implantable restriction device is configured to provide a restriction in a patient as a function of the pressure of fluid. The implantable restriction device includes one or more pressure sensors configured to sense pressure of the fluid within the implantable restriction device. Pressure data obtained by the one or more pressure sensors may be communicated to a device located external to the patient, which may process the pressure data, and may further provide a display to a user including information relating to the processed pressure data. Where the implantable restriction device comprises an adjustable gastric band, the one or more pressure sensors may be located in any number of the following locations: an injection port, an interface between the injection port and a catheter, in a catheter, in-line with a catheter, adjacent to a catheter, in a gastric band, in a gastric band buckle, or elsewhere.

External pressure-based gastric band adjustment system and method

An external pressure sensing system may include an attachment for a syringe. The attachment may comprise a connector positioned between the barrel and the needle of the syringe. A pressure sensor may be in fluid communication with the connector, such that the pressure sensor may sense the pressure of fluid within the connector as the syringe is used to add fluid to or withdraw fluid from an injection port. Where an injection port is a component of an adjustable fluid-based gastric band system, pressure data obtained with the pressure sensor may be indicative of the pressure of fluid within the gastric band. The pressure sensor may communicate pressure data to a display device. A user may adjust the pressure of fluid within the gastric band using the syringe while viewing the display device for pressure-related readings.

Device for non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable restriction device

A restriction system, such as an adjustable gastric band, for forming a restriction in a patient and non-invasively communicating pressure data regarding the restriction to an external monitor. The system includes a restriction device for implantation in a patient to form a restriction. The system further includes an implanted port connected to the restriction device. The port contains a working fluid for affecting the size of the restriction. The system further includes a pressure sensing system in communication with the working fluid for measuring the pressure of the working fluid and transmitting pressure measurement data to an external monitor.

System and method for determining implanted device positioning and obtaining pressure data

A sense head comprises a plurality of coils and a needle window. The sense head is operable to receive RF signals communicated from a needle target such as an injection port located within a patient. A user interface is configured to visually display an indication to a user relating to the positioning and orientation of the sense head relative to the needle target. The positioning and orientation may be determined based on RF signals received by the coils in the sense head. With the sense head positioned based on information provided through the visual display, the user may insert a needle through the needle window to reach the needle target. The sense head may also receive communications relating to the pressure of fluid in an implanted device. The user interface may further display information relating to the fluid pressure in the implanted device.

System and method for determining implanted device orientation

A system is operable to detect the orientation of an implant component. The system comprises an implantable component, an external component, and a logic component. The implantable component comprises a first coil operable to transmit a first signal having a phase. The external component comprises a second coil operable to transmit a second signal having a phase. The logic component is operable to compare the phase of the first signal with the phase of the second signal. The logic component is further configured to determine an orientation of the first coil relative to the second coil based on a comparison of the phase of the first signal with the phase of the second signal. The system may be used to determine the orientation of an injection port in an implanted gastric band system. The system may alternatively be used in a variety of other types of systems.

Monitoring of a food intake restriction device

An implantable restriction device is configured to provide a restriction in a patient as a function of the pressure of fluid. The implantable restriction device includes one or more pressure sensors configured to sense pressure of the fluid within the implantable restriction device. Pressure data obtained by the one or more pressure sensors may be communicated to a device located external to the patient, such as a data logger, using telemetry coils or other communicators. The data logger may store the pressure data, and may communicate the pressure data to a remote location via a network such as the Internet. A docking station may be provided to couple the data logger to a network and/or to recharge a cell in the data logger.

Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device

An implantable restriction device is configured to provide a restriction in a patient as a function of the pressure of fluid. The implantable restriction device includes one or more pressure sensors configured to sense pressure of the fluid within the implantable restriction device. Pressure data obtained by the one or more pressure sensors may be communicated to a device located external to the patient, which may process the pressure data, and may further provide a display to a user including information relating to the processed pressure data. Where the implantable restriction device comprises an adjustable gastric band, the one or more pressure sensors may be located in any number of the following locations: an injection port, an interface between the injection port and a catheter, in a catheter, in-line with a catheter, adjacent to a catheter, in a gastric band, in a gastric band buckle, or elsewhere.

Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device

Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid-regulating restrictive device

Medicion de presion no invasiva en un dispositivo restrictivo ajustable de fluido.

Un dispositivo de restricción implantable está configurado para proveer un a restricción en un paciente como una función de la presión de fluido, el dispositivo de restricción implantable incluye uno o más sensores de presión configurados para detectar presión del fluido entro del dispositivo de restricción implantable; los datos de presión obtenidos por los uno o más sensores de presión pueden ser comunicados a un dispositivo localizado externo al paciente, el cual puede procesar los datos de presión y puede proveer además una representación a un usuario, que incluye información respecto a los datos de presión procesados; en donde el dispositivo de restricción implantable comprende una banda gástrica ajustable, los uno o más sensores de presión pueden localizarse en cualquier número de las siguientes posiciones. una terminal de inyección, una interfaz entre la terminal de inyección y un catéter, en un catéter, en línea con un catéter, adyacente a un catéter, en una banda gástrica, en una hebilla de la banda gástrica, o en otra parte.

Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device

Actuator for an implantable band

An actuator having a variable internal volume is mechanically coupled to an adjustable implantable band so as to effect changes in the effective internal perimeter of the band. The actuator may be directly connected to the band, or be connected through a cable. Configurations of the actuator include a series of folds and ridges and bellows. A plurality of actuators may be used in combination with a single band. A clutch mechanism may be included to hold the band in place when not acted upon by the actuators. One end of the actuator may be connected directly to a bidirectional flow device.

Remote monitoring and adjustment of food intake restriction device

Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device

An implantable restriction device (38) is configured to provide a restriction in a patient as a function of the pressure of fluid. The implantable restriction device includes one or more pressure sensors (84) configured to sense pressure of the fluid within the implantable restriction device. Pressure data obtained by the one or more pressure sensors may be communicated to a device located external to the patient, which may process the pressure data, and may further provide a display to a user including information relating to the processed pressure data. Where the implantable restriction device comprises an adjustable gastric band (38), the one or more pressure sensors may be located in any number of the following locations: an injection port (42), an interface between the injection port and a catheter (44), in a catheter, in-line with a catheter, adjacent to a catheter, in a gastric band, in a gastric band buckle, or elsewhere.

Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device

An implantable restriction device is configured to provide a restriction in a patient as a function of the pressure of fluid. The implantable restriction device includes one or more pressure sensors configured to sense pressure of the fluid within the implantable restriction device. Pressure data obtained by the one or more pressure sensors may be communicated to a device located external to the patient, which may process the pressure data, and may further provide a display to a user including information relating to the processed pressure data. Where the implantable restriction device comprises an adjustable gastric band, the one or more pressure sensors may be located in any number of the following locations: an injection port, an interface between the injection port and a catheter, in a catheter, in-line with a catheter, adjacent to a catheter, in a gastric band, in a gastric band buckle, or elsewhere.

Non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable gastric band

A food intake restriction device for forming a restriction in a patient's gastro-intestinal tract and non-invasively communicating pressure data regarding the restriction to an external monitor. The device includes a food intake restriction device implanted substantially about a patient's gastro-intestinal tract to form a restricted opening in the tract. A port is connected to the restriction device. The port contains a working fluid for affecting the size of the restricted opening. A pressure sensing system communicates with the working fluid to measure the pressure of the working fluid. A transmitter communicates the measured fluid pressure to the external monitor.

Sistema de ajuste de banda gastrica externo basado en presion, y metodo de uso del mismo.

Un sistema detector de presión externo puede incluir un aditamento para una jeringa; el aditamento puede comprender un conector posicionado entre el cuerpo del cilindro y la aguja de la jeringa; un sensor de presión puede estar en comunicación de fluido con el conector, de modo que el sensor de presión pueda detectar la presión de fluido dentro del conector conforme la jeringa se usa par añadir fluido a una terminal de inyección o para retirar fluido de la misma; en donde una terminal de inyección sea un componente de un sistema de banda gástrica ajustable basado e fluido, los datos de presión obtenidos con el sensor de presión pueden ser indicativos de la presión de fluido dentro de la banda gástrica; el sensor de presión puede comunicar datos de presión a un dispositivo de representación; un usuario puede ajustar la presión de fluido dentro de la banda gástrica usando la jeringa, mientras que observa el dispositivo de representación para lecturas relacionadas con la presión.

External pressure-based gastric band adjustment system and method

An external pressure sensing system may include an attachment for a syringe. The attachment may comprise a connector positioned between the barrel and the needle of the syringe. A pressure sensor may be in fluid communication with the connector, such that the pressure sensor may sense the pressure of fluid within the connector as the syringe is used to add fluid to or withdraw fluid from an injection port. Where an injection port is a component of an adjustable fluid-based gastric band system, pressure data obtained with the pressure sensor may be indicative of the pressure of fluid within the gastric band. The pressure sensor may communicate pressure data to a display device. A user may adjust the pressure of fluid within the gastric band using the syringe while viewing the display device for pressure-related readings.

External pressure-based gastric band adjustment system and method

An external pressure sensing system may include an attachment for a syringe. The attachment may comprise a connector positioned between the barrel and the needle of the syringe. A pressure sensor may be in fluid communication with the connector, such that the pressure sensor may sense the pressure of fluid within the connector as the syringe is used to add fluid to or withdraw fluid from an injection port. Where an injection port is a component of an adjustable fluid-based gastric band system, pressure data obtained with the pressure sensor may be indicative of the pressure of fluid within the gastric band. The pressure sensor may communicate pressure data to a display device. A user may adjust the pressure of fluid within the gastric band using the syringe while viewing the display device for pressure-related readings.

Device for non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable restriction device

A restriction system, such as an adjustable gastric band, for forming a restriction in a patient and non-invasively communicating pressure data regarding the restriction to an external monitor. The system includes a restriction device for implantation in a patient to form a restriction. The system further includes an implanted port connected to the restriction device. The port contains a working fluid for affecting the size of the restriction. The system further includes a pressure sensing system in communication with the working fluid for measuring the pressure of the working fluid and transmitting pressure measurement data to an external monitor.

Device for non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable restriction device

A restriction system, such as an adjustable gastric band, for forming a restriction in a patient and non-invasively communicating pressure data regarding the restriction to an external monitor. The system includes a restriction device for implantation in a patient to form a restriction. The system further includes an implanted port connected to the restriction device. The port contains a working fluid for affecting the size of the restriction. The system further includes a pressure sensing system in communication with the working fluid for measuring the pressure of the working fluid and transmitting pressure measurement data to an external monitor.

Device for non-invasive liquid pressure measurement in an adjustable restriction device

Device for non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable restriction device

Remote monitoring and adjustment of food intake restriction device

A bi-directional communication system (20) for use with a restrictive opening device (22) implanted within a patient. The system includes a sensor (84) for measuring an operational parameter within the restrictive opening device. The system further includes a means (54,56) for communicating a measured parameter data from the sensor means to a local unit (60) external to the patient. The system further includes a base unit (170) at a remote location from the patient, the base unit including user interface means (176) for evaluating the measured parameter data. And, a communication link (180) between the local and base units for transmitting data between the units, the transmitted data including the measured parameter data.

Piezo electrically driven bellows infuser for hydraulically controlling an adjustable gastric band

A remotely controlled gastric band system that is practically immune to external magnetic fields, such as from a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine, incorporates a bi-directional pump and fluid reservoir to adjust fluid volume in a gastric band. A piezoelectrically driven (e.g., rotary actuator, linear actuator) selectively compresses and expands a metal bellows hermetically sealed within a biocompatible and nonferromagnetic case such as titanium.

Thermodynamically driven reversible infuser pump for use as a remotely controlled gastric band

An implantable artificial sphincter system provides long-term adjustment via transcutaneous energy transfer (TET), minimizing invasive adjustment through adding or removing fluid via a syringe. An infuser device provides bi-directional fluid transfer via a flexible conduit to a sphincter band, such as a gastric band, by a combination of thermodynamic actuation and a piezo-electrically disengaged drum brake assembly that thereby achieves a desirable small volume device. A propellant within a propellant cavity surrounds a metal bellows accumulator biased at body temperature to either expand or collapse the bellows accumulator with the opposite direction of movement effected by a thermal element that heats in combination with a negatively-biased propellant or cools in combination with a positively-biased propellant. A drum brake assembly locks the metal bellows accumulator in place between adjustments by thermodynamic actuation by activating piezo-electric stack actuators that disengage calipers from a brake drum attached to the bellows accumulator.

Bi-directional infuser pump with volume braking for hydraulically controlling an adjustable gastric band

An implantable artificial sphincter system provides long-term adjustment via transcutaneous energy transfer (TET), minimizing invasive adjustment through adding or removing fluid via a syringe. An infuser device provides bi-directional fluid transfer via a flexible conduit to a sphincter band, such as a gastric band, by a combination of thermodynamic actuation and a piezo-electrically disengaged drum brake assembly that thereby achieves a desirable small volume device. A propellant within a propellant cavity surrounds a metal bellows accumulator biased at body temperature to either expand or collapse the bellows accumulator with the opposite direction of movement effected by a thermal element that heats in combination with a negatively-biased propellant or cools in combination with a positively-biased propellant. A drum brake assembly locks the metal bellows accumulator in place between adjustments by thermodynamic actuation by activating piezo-electric stack actuators that disengage calipers from a brake drum attached to the bellows accumulator.

Implantable adjustable sphincter system

An implantable adjustable sphincter system is comprised of a band configured to encircle a portion of an anatomical passageway, a manual pump, a reservoir in fluid communication with the pump, and a valve assembly in fluid communication with the band and the manual pump. The valve assembly is comprised of a first configuration and a second configuration, and is operable to be manually switched between configurations. The first configuration only permits fluid to flow from the band toward the reservoir. The second configuration only permits fluid to flow from the reservoir toward the band. The manual pump is in fluid communication with the valve assembly and the reservoir, and is manually operable to transfer fluid between the reservoir and the band when the valve assembly is in the second configuration.

Transcutaneous energy transfer primary coil with a high aspect ferrite core

Adjustable gastric band implants contain a hollow elastomeric balloon with fixed end points encircling a patient's stomach just inferior to the esophago-gastric junction. These balloons can expand and contract through the introduction of saline solution into the balloon. In current bands, this saline solution must be injected into a subcutaneous port with a needle to reach the port located below the skin surface. The port communicates hydraulically with the band via a catheter. As an alternative to using a percutaneously accessed injection port, a system for regulating the flow of saline that is totally implanted may rely upon bi-directionally pumping fluid from an implant device. This system instead transfers AC magnetic flux energy from an external primary coil to a secondary coil that powers the pump in the implanted reservoir. A magnetically permeable rod centered within the primary coil increases power coupled to the secondary coil.

Low frequency transcutaneous energy transfer to implanted medical device

An implantable medical device system advantageously utilizes low frequency (e.g., about 1-100 kHz) transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) for supplying power from an external control module to an implantable medical device, avoiding power dissipation through eddy currents in a metallic case of an implant and/or in human tissue, thereby enabling smaller implants using a metallic case such as titanium and/or allowing TET signals of greater strength thereby allowing placement more deeply within a patient without excessive power transfer inefficiencies.

Spatially decoupled twin secondary coils for optimizing transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) power transfer characteristics

An implantable device, such as an infuser device for bidirectional hydraulically controlling a medical artificial sphincter, enhances power transfer characteristics to a secondary coil thereby allowing implantation to greater physical depths and/or enclosing the secondary coil within a housing of the infuser device. The enhanced power transfer is achieved with multiple coils that are longitudinally aligned and physical and electrical parallel to form the secondary loop of a transcutaneous energy transfer system (TET) instead of a single coil. It better optimizes the power transfer from a parallel tuned tank circuit primary coil to an implanted secondary series tuned tank circuit coil.