Methods of applying a coating to an optical surface

A method for applying a coating to an optical surface of an optical device. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of placing a coating solution in a cliche of a cliche plate, transferring the coating solution from the cliche to deformable body of a transfer pad, and pressing the transfer pad to the optical surface so as to transfer the coating solution from the deformable body of the transfer pad to the optical surface. The method further includes a step of irradiating the coating solution associated with the optical surface at a wavelength of microwave so as to form a coating layer on the optical surface. The coating layer can be further cured to form a desired coating on a proper optical surface. The optical device can be an optical lens having at least one optical surface, or a mold that can be used to produce an optical lens. In other words, the present invention allows a coating to be applied directly to an optical surface of an optical lens. Alternatively, a coating can ...

Disposable molds and method of using the same

The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for casting a lens, and chemical compositions used to perform the same. In one implementation of the invention, a disposable mold is provided that comprises a substantially amorphous thermoplastic material forming an optically precise surface; wherein the mold further comprises a coating on the optically precise surface of the mold, the coating configured to be incorporated into an ophthalmic lens and removable from the mold.

Light transmittable and tissue integrable biofiber device

The present invention provides a light transmittable and tissue integration integrable biofiber device including a plurality of biofibers. The plurality of biofibers consist a single bare fiber or a single constructed fiber. The single constructed fiber consists a core layer and either a single cladding layer or a plurality of cladding layers, and the cladding layer clads and fuses a circumferential surface of the core layer. Each of the plurality of biofibers comprises a light receiving end and a light emitting end, a light radiates through the light receiving end and the light is emitted from the a light emitting end. Therefore, the biofiber device of the present invention may simultaneously accomplish light transmittable and tissue integrable purposes to facilitate light therapy, optical gene therapy and optogenetics.

Light Transmittable and Tissue Integrable Biofiber Device

The present invention provides a light transmittable and tissue integration integrable biofiber device including a plurality of biofibers. The plurality of biofibers consist a single bare fiber or a single constructed fiber. The single constructed fiber consists a core layer and either a single cladding layer or a plurality of cladding layers, and the cladding layer dads and fuses a circumferential surface of the core layer. Each of the plurality of biofibers comprises a light receiving end and a light emitting end, a light radiates through the light receiving end and the light is emitted from the a light emitting end. Therefore, the biofiber device of the present invention may simultaneously accomplish light transmittable and tissue integrable purposes to facilitate light therapy, optical gene therapy and optogenetics.

Implantable cardiac stimulation system having improved method of calibrating physiologic sensors

An implantable cardiac stimulation system is disclosed which automatically optimizes its ability to rate-responsively pace by enabling calibration when the patient is at rest and has a functioning lead. Devices which employ physiologic sensors are based on a baseline value of the sensor signal corresponding to the resting state. Accordingly, the control system determines if the patient is at rest using a suitable sensor and also determines if the lead impedance is within normal values, i.e. functional and intact. If these conditions are met, the control system stores the current baseline of the sensor at rest and proceeds with normal sensing and stimulation commands until the next calibration is performed. In addition, the system can automatically calibrate a sleep value for the physiologic sensor using a sensor which can detect the sleep state. While the preferred embodiment discloses a minute ventilation sensor, other closed-loop sensors are contemplated, including at least paced depolarization ...

Episomally replicating lentiviral vectors

The invention is directed to a lentiviral vector system that can be used for episomal replication of a desired gene. The vector system contains a first vector containing a lentiviral gag gene encoding a lentiviral gag protein, a second vector containing an env gene encoding a functional envelope protein, and a lentiviral pol gene encoding a lentiviral pol protein. The pol protein is at least integrase, but that the integrase has been modified so that it is not capable of integration. This pol gene can be on the first or second vectors or on a third vector. The lentiviral gag and pol and the envelope protein are not on a single vector, and these vectors do not contain nucleotides to effectively package lentiviral RNA. The system also contains another vector having a nucleic acid sequence encoding a target molecule operably linked to a component of an episomal replicon and a lentiviral packaging sequence.

Cardiac stimulation system and method for performing automatic capture verification during bipolar stimulation

An implantable cardiac stimulation device and method perform reliable, automatic capture verification during bipolar stimulation by eliminating capture verification during a cardiac cycle in which anodal stimulation is detected. Anodal stimulation is detected by the absence of a delay between the bipolar stimulation pulse and an evoked response sensed at the electrode functioning as the anode during stimulation. Automatic capture verification during bipolar stimulation is recommended only if anodal stimulation is not detected at a working stimulation output. During automatic capture verification, if anodal stimulation is detected, a capture threshold test is performed. A change in anodal stimulation threshold indicates a change in capture threshold. Thus, periodic anodal stimulation threshold tests are also performed to predict when a change in capture threshold has occurred. The device avoids adverse effects of anodal stimulation on evoked response detection and provides a method for predicting ...

Dynamic adjustment of overdrive pacing rate based on sensor indicated rate

An implantable cardiac stimulation device controls dynamic atrial overdrive pacing based, in part, on sensor indicated rate. In one example, the stimulation device adjusts an overdrive pacing rate based on the sensor indicated rate by periodically decreasing the overdrive pacing rate by a programmed rate decrement whenever a difference between the current overdrive pacing rate and the sensor indicated rate falls outside predetermined acceptable range while the sensor indicated rate is decreasing. The overdrive pacing rate is decreased in this manner until a) the overdrive pacing rate falls below the base rate, rest rate or the sensor indicated rate or until b) an event triggers an increase in the overdrive pacing rate, such as the appearance of intrinsic breakthrough heart beats. The overdrive pacing rate is not decreased if the sensor indicated rate is increasing or stable. With this process, the overdrive pacing rate is controlled to typically remain slightly above the intrinsic rate ...

Molds and method of using the same for forming plus or minus lenses

The present invention encompasses, in part, a method and apparatus for lens casting in which two molds, preferably formed of plastic, are interconnected or joined together via a ring to form a mold cavity having substantially the same dimensions of the lens to be formed therein. The invention is further directed to compositions and methods used in lens casting. In a first implementation the invention includes a mold having a ring having an interior periphery; a front mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface, an edge circumscribing the lens-forming surface that is sized to be complementarily received within a portion of the interior periphery of the ring, and a base having dimensions greater than the interior periphery; and a rear mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface.

Episomally replicating lentiviral vectors

The invention is directed to a lentiviral vector system that can be used for episomal replication of a desired gene. The vector system contains a first vector containing a lentiviral gag gene encoding a lentiviral gag protein, a second vector containing an env gene encoding a functional envelope protein, and a lentiviral pol gene encoding a lentiviral pol protein. The pol protein is at least integrase, but that the integrase has been modified so that it is not capable of integration. This pol gene can be on the first or second vectors or on a third vector. The lentiviral gag and pol and the envelope protein are not on a single vector, and these vectors do not contain nucleotides to effectively package lentiviral RNA. The system also contains another vector having a nucleic acid sequence encoding a target molecule operably linked to a component of an episomal replicon and a lentiviral packaging sequence.

Implantable cardiac device for restoring inter-chamber synchrony and method

An implantable cardiac device returns activations of corresponding right and left chambers of a heart to inter-chamber synchrony. A sensing circuit senses intracardiac signals representing right and left chamber ventricular electrical activity. A detector determines if a predetermined characteristic of the electrogram signals indicates dissociation of the corresponding right and left chambers. If dissociation is indicated, a pulse generator stimulates at least one of the corresponding chambers to restore inter-chamber synchrony.

Minute volume pacemakers that require only a single distal electrode

In a rate-responsive pacemaker, the metabolic demand of the patient is determined by measuring the patient's minute volume. Preferably, the pacemaker has a housing with a header, two external electrodes formed on the housing and/or the header, and at least one lead with a distal electrode extending from the header to the patient's heart. The minute volume is determined by injecting a test current pulse between one of the external electrodes and the distal electrode, and detecting the resulting voltage between the distal electrode and the second external electrode.

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

An apparatus and method for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for holding a mold assembly, wherein the mold assembly includes a front mold, a back mold and a strip wrapping around the edges of the front mold and back mold to form a sleeve. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The second portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The first portion and the second portion are pivotally coupled together at the bottom parts so that the top part of the first portion and the top part of the second portion can be closed to define a housing for receiving the mold ...

Implantable stimulation device and method for performing inter-chamber conduction search and conduction time measurement

An implantable cardiac stimulation device and associated method set an atrial capture detection window by verifying that inter-atrial conduction is intact, and then measuring the inter-atrial conduction time. The measured inter-atrial conduction time may then be used for setting the atrial capture detection window. Capture verification of a stimulated atrial site is then implemented by detecting a conducted depolarization at another atrial site or in the opposite atrial chamber. A signal received during an atrial capture detection window is compared to a depolarization signal threshold or to a depolarization signal template in order to verify detection of a conducted depolarization signal as evidence of capture at the stimulated site. By sensing depolarization signal away from the stimulated site, the negative effects of lead polarization normally encountered when detecting an evoked response are avoided.

FC-ENHANCED ANTIBODIES FOR PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF EBOLA VIRUS INFECTION

Described herein are Fe-enhanced antibodies and methods of use thereof. Also described are Fe-enhanced antibodies to treat Ebola virus infection.

Activity level feedback for managing obesity

Techniques are described that allow an implantable device to sense activity data from a patient and estimate the patient's amount of energy expended based on the sensed data. The implantable device may alternatively determine an amount of time the patient has been active based on the activity data. For example, the implantable device may be an implantable gastric stimulator. A system may provide feedback to the patient, a family member, or a doctor about the patient's activity or energy expenditure. The data may be provided in table or graphical format, and may show daily or weekly energy data or may show a trend of the daily or weekly energy data.

Method and apparatus for dispensing a fluid

A fluid-dispensing device and method of dispensing fluid comprising a container for holding the fluid, a housing having an interior in which a portion of the container is located, and a source for compressing a portion of the container disposed within the interior of the housing. When the container is compressed, the fluid exits the container to flow to a desired location. The methods of compressing the container to force the fluid out of its interior include, for example, a housing holding the container that is pressurized above atmospheric pressure; an expandable balloon positioned adjacent the container and inflated; and a plate driven by a cylinder to compress the container. It is noted that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to ascertain quickly the subject matter of the technical disclosure. The abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning ...

MODULAR FLOW CYTOMETRY SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PROCESSING SAMPLES

Modular flow cytometry systems and methods for processing samples are described herein. The systems include automated or semi-automated modules that are replaceable and removable. A sample pathway module may be removed and placed in a microfluidic device cleaning module for cleaning, and then reinstalled or stored for later use. The systems further include optical modules, electronics modules, and mixing and collection modules. The optical module includes a photo-damaging assembly and detection laser assembly that may be on the same side relative to a plane or surface of a flow cytometry device and opposite of a detection assembly. The laser beam may have a beam waist that is wider in a direction perpendicular to a flow direction than in the flow direction. The mixing and collection module can automatically mix a sample being collected in a sample tube and switch to another sample tube when the other tube is full.

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

An apparatus and method for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for holding a mold assembly, wherein the mold assembly includes a front mold, a back mold and a strip wrapping around the edges of the front mold and back mold to form a sleeve. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The second portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The first portion and the second portion are pivotally coupled together at the bottom parts so that the top part of the first portion and the top part of the second portion can be closed to define a housing for receiving the mold ...

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

An apparatus and method for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for holding a mold assembly, wherein the mold assembly includes a front mold, a back mold and a strip wrapping around the edges of the front mold and back mold to form a sleeve. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The second portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The first portion and the second portion are pivotally coupled together at the bottom parts so that the top part of the first portion and the top part of the second portion can be closed to define a housing for receiving the mold ...

Method and device for responding to the detection of ischemia in cardiac tissue

An apparatus and method for monitoring the patient's heart for the presence of ischemia and altering the treatment delivered by an implantable cardiac stimulation device to minimize adverse ischemic effects, e.g., angina pectoris. Embodiments of the present invention are particularly beneficial when used with a rate responsive cardiac stimulation device. Typically, a rate responsive cardiac stimulation device increases its pacing rate (up to a maximum sensor rate) in response to increases in the patient's activity level. The rate of this change is referred to in this patent as the aggressiveness of the rate responsiveness. However, in an ischemic state, the aggressiveness of the rate responsiveness may cause the heart to pace at a rate that exacerbates the ischemic effects. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention alter the pacing regimen in one or more of the following ways. First, the maximum sensor rate is adaptively decremented in response to a detected ischemic state. Second ...

Implantable cardiac device for restoring inter-chamber synchrony and method

An implantable cardiac device returns activations of corresponding right and left chambers of a heart to inter-chamber synchrony. A sensing circuit senses intracardiac signals representing right and left chamber ventricular electrical activity. A detector determines if a predetermined characteristic of the electrogram signals indicates dissociation of the corresponding right and left chambers. If dissociation is indicated, a pulse generator stimulates at least one of the corresponding chambers to restore inter-chamber synchrony.

Molds and method of using the same for forming plus or minus lenses

The present invention encompasses, in part, a method and apparatus for lens casting in which two molds, preferably formed of plastic, are interconnected or joined together via a ring to form a mold cavity having substantially the same dimensions of the lens to be formed therein. The invention is further directed to compositions and methods used in lens casting. In a first implementation the invention includes a mold having a ring having an interior periphery; a front mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface, an edge circumscribing the lens-forming surface that is sized to be complementarily received within a portion of the interior periphery of the ring, and a base having dimensions greater than the interior periphery; and a rear mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface.

Cardiac monitoring via gastrointestinal stimulator

The invention is directed to techniques for delivering electrical stimulation to a gastrointestinal tract of a patient via an implantable stimulator and monitoring electrical activity of a patient's heart by sensing cardiac signals via electrodes coupled to the implantable stimulator. The implantable stimulator may analyze the cardiac signals and generate a cardiac therapy recommendation for the patient, or may communicate the cardiac signals via telemetry circuitry to an external device for analysis. The sensed cardiac signals may be electrocardiogram (ECG) signals.

Implantable cardiac stimulation device and method which discriminates between noise and cardiac activity

An implantable cardiac stimulation device discriminates between noise and an arrhythmia sensed in a heart. A first sensing circuit generates a first signal representing electrical activity sensed in a first location of the heart and a second sensing circuit generates a second signal representing electrical activity sensed in a second location of the heart. The first and second locations are spaced apart and located in respective different corresponding chambers or the same chambers of the heart. A comparison circuit then compares the first and second signals to provide a comparison factor. A control circuit then determines from the comparison factor if noise is sensed or if an arrhythmia is being sensed.

Implantable cardiac stimulation device which recommends ablation therapy and method

An implantable cardiac stimulation device provides a stimulation therapy or an atrial ablation recommendation responsive to detection of atrial flutter of a heart. The device includes a sensing circuit that senses electrical activity of a heart and generates electrical signals representing electrical activity of the heart, an arrhythmia detector that detects atrial flutter of the heart, and a data processor that measures cardiac data responsive to the electrical signals. A therapy control responsive to the detection of atrial flutter recommends atrial ablation of the heart when the cardiac data satisfies a predetermined criteria and atrial flutter suppression when the cardiac data fails to satisfy the predetermined criteria. The device may further include a pulse generator that provides stimulation therapy to at least one atrium to terminate the atrial flutter.

Method and apparatus for programming a rate responsive implantable cardiac stimulation device using user specified rate response functions

Techniques are provided for programming a rate-responsive pacemaker or other implantable cardiac stimulation device capable of rate-responsive pacing. In one embodiment, an external programmer is configured to allow a physician to program the pacemaker with a smooth curvilinear rate-responsive pacing function having whatever shape the physician deems optimal for the patient, rather than being limited to generating a linear or bi-linear rate-responsive pacing functions as with many conventional techniques. The rate-responsive pacing function may specify, for example, pacing rates as a function of orthostatic sensor values, activity sensor values, minute ventilation sensor values, vasovagal syncope sensor values or paced depolarization integral sensor values. If several sensors are provided in the pacemaker, smooth rate-responsive pacing functions may be separately generated for use with each sensor.

Method and device for responding to the detection of ischemia in cardiac tissue

An apparatus and method for monitoring the patient's heart for the presence of ischemia and altering the treatment delivered by an implantable cardiac stimulation device to minimize adverse ischemic effects, e.g., angina pectoris. Embodiments of the present invention are particularly beneficial when used with a rate responsive cardiac stimulation device. Typically, a rate responsive cardiac stimulation device increases its pacing rate (up to a maximum sensor rate) in response to increases in the patient's activity level. The rate of this change is referred to in this patent as the aggressiveness of the rate responsiveness. However, in an ischemic state, the aggressiveness of the rate responsiveness may cause the heart to pace at a rate that exacerbates the ischemic effects. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention alter the pacing regimen in one or more of the following ways. First, the maximum sensor rate is adaptively decremented in response to a detected ischemic state. Second ...

Implantable cardiac stimulation device which recommends ablation therapy and method

An implantable cardiac stimulation device provides a stimulation therapy or an atrial ablation recommendation responsive to detection of atrial flutter of a heart. The device includes a sensing circuit that senses electrical activity of a heart and generates electrical signals representing electrical activity of the heart, an arrhythmia detector that detects atrial flutter of the heart, and a data processor that measures cardiac data responsive to the electrical signals. A therapy control responsive to the detection of atrial flutter recommends atrial ablation of the heart when the cardiac data satisfies a predetermined criteria and atrial flutter suppression when the cardiac data fails to satisfy the predetermined criteria. The device may further include a pulse generator that provides stimulation therapy to at least one atrium to terminate the atrial flutter.

Methods and systems for automatically switching electrode configurations

Various embodiments can permit electrode configurations that are used in implantable devices to be automatically changed. In some embodiments, configurations that are used to ascertain capture (ventricular and/or atrial) can be automatically changed by a stimulation device and then automatically configured for use. Various parameters associated with the electrical configurations can be automatically calibrated so that a stimulation device's automatic capture feature can continue to function notwithstanding the fact that an electrode configuration change has taken place.

Implantable stimulation device and method for detecting capture of a heart chamber using cross-chamber conducted depolarization

An implantable cardiac stimulation device and associated method to verify capture of a stimulated atrial site by detecting a conducted depolarization at another atrial site or in the opposite atrial chamber. A signal received during an atrial capture detection window is compared to a depolarization signal threshold or to a depolarization signal template in order to verify detection of a conducted depolarization signal as evidence of capture at the stimulated site. By sensing depolarization signal away from the stimulated site, the negative effects of lead polarization normally encountered when detecting an evoked response are avoided.

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

An apparatus and method for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for holding a mold assembly, wherein the mold assembly includes a front mold, a back mold and a strip wrapping around the edges of the front mold and back mold to form a sleeve. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The second portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The first portion and the second portion are pivotally coupled together at the bottom parts so that the top part of the first portion and the top part of the second portion can be closed to define a housing for receiving the mold ...

Lens molds and method of using the same

A method and apparatus for forming a lens using two molds that interconnect together so that their respective interior surfaces form the negative image of the lens to be cast therein. The molds are preferably made of plastic. A monomer fills the volume formed by the interior surfaces of the molds and is cured or polymerized to form a lens having desired dimensions and characteristics. It is noted that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to ascertain quickly the subject matter of the technical disclosure. The abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims pursuant to 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b).

Method and device for multi-chamber cardiac pacing in response to a tachycardia

An apparatus and method for performing multi-chamber anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) in response to a tachycardia that is of particular use in an implantable cardiac stimulation device. The expected benefits of such a multi-chamber ATP include improved hemodynamic performance and the ability to terminate the tachycardia sooner. Embodiments of the present invention use an intrinsic chamber activation sequence and associated interchamber time delays, preferably automatically detected during a period of time when a pathologic tachycardia is not present, to treat a pathologic tachycardia should it occur. Such a device monitors two or more chambers of the patient's heart, i.e., the controlled chambers, and in the event a tachycardia is detected, the device determines the chamber which originated the tachycardia. The device then calculates anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) cycle lengths, typically as percentages of the detected tachycardia cycle length of the chamber where the tachycardia originated ...

Multi-site cardiac stimulation device for controlling inter-chamber stimulation delay

An implantable, multi-chamber cardiac stimulation device and method automatically adjust inter-chamber stimulation delays whenever stimulation rate is changed according to a patient's metabolic need. Inter-chamber stimulation delays include inter-atrial delays, inter-ventricular delays, and atrio-ventricular delays. Inter-chamber stimulation delays are defined according to whether the event which triggers the start of the delay is an intrinsic sensed event or the delivery of a stimulation pulse. Adjustment to inter-chamber stimulation delays is made as a function of the stimulation rate changes. By providing automatically adjustable inter-chamber stimulation delays optimal synchronization of heart chamber contractions may be maintained at all stimulation rates.

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

An apparatus and method for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for holding a mold assembly, wherein the mold assembly includes a front mold, a back mold and a strip wrapping around the edges of the front mold and back mold to form a sleeve. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The second portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The first portion and the second portion are pivotally coupled together at the bottom parts so that the top part of the first portion and the top part of the second portion can be closed to define a housing for receiving the mold ...

Molds and method of using the same for forming plus or minus lenses

The present invention encompasses, in part, a method and apparatus for lens casting in which two molds, preferably formed of plastic, are interconnected or joined together via a ring to form a mold cavity having substantially the same dimensions of the lens to be formed therein. The invention is further directed to compositions and methods used in lens casting. In a first implementation the invention includes a mold having a ring having an interior periphery; a front mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface, an edge circumscribing the lens-forming surface that is sized to be complementarily received within a portion of the interior periphery of the ring, and a base having dimensions greater than the interior periphery; and a rear mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface.

Detecting and displaying diagnostic information pertaining to dynamic atrial overdrive pacing

Systems and methods are provided for collecting enhanced diagnostic information specifically pertaining to overdrive pacing within an implantable cardiac stimulation device and for processing and displaying the enhanced diagnostic information using an external programmer. The enhanced diagnostic information includes one or more of overdrive pacing efficacy, overdrive pacing percentage, overdrive pacing/heart rate histogram data, longest recovery duration, atrial event data, minimum/maximum/average of the overdrive pacing rate, number of paced beats at maximum rate, duration of recovery time from maximum rate, intrinsic rate breakthrough histogram data, and number of rate increases. By tracking and displaying the enhanced diagnostic information, a physician can thereby more effectively and reliably program overdrive pacing control parameters to achieve optimal overdrive pacing performance.

Methods and systems for automatically determining minute ventilation

Methods and systems for switching electrode configurations for measuring the transthoracic impedance of patient are described. Various embodiments provide stimulation devices and methods that can automatically adapt to different minute ventilation electrode configurations. This, in turn, permits minute ventilation functionality to continue, e.g. rate-responsive pacing, in spite of the fact that an electrode configuration has changed. Accordingly, minute ventilation functionality can automatically continue in a adaptive manner when a previously-available electrode configuration is no longer available for minute ventilation functionality.

Disposable molds and method of using the same

The present invention encompasses, in part, a method and apparatus for lens casting in which two molds, preferably formed of plastic, are interconnected or joined together via a ring to form a mold cavity having substantially the same dimensions of the lens to be formed therein. In one implementation the invention includes a the casting device comprising a plurality of front molds, each front mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface. The front molds are configured to form a plurality of lenses of different effective diameters. The casting device further includes a rear mold formed of a plastic and having a lens-forming surface; wherein the rear mold is configured to be paired with each of the plurality of front molds to form a plurality of lenses of different effective diameters.

Multi-site cardiac stimulation device for controlling inter-chamber stimulation delay

An implantable, multi-chamber cardiac stimulation device and method automatically adjust inter-chamber stimulation delays whenever stimulation rate is changed according to a patient's metabolic need. Inter-chamber stimulation delays include inter-atrial delays, inter-ventricular delays, and atrio-ventricular delays. Inter-chamber stimulation delays are defined according to whether the event which triggers the start of the delay is an intrinsic sensed event or the delivery of a stimulation pulse. Adjustment to inter-chamber stimulation delays is made as a function of the stimulation rate changes. By providing automatically adjustable inter-chamber stimulation delays optimal synchronization of heart chamber contractions may be maintained at all stimulation rates.

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

An apparatus and method for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for holding a mold assembly, wherein the mold assembly includes a front mold, a back mold and a strip wrapping around the edges of the front mold and back mold to form a sleeve. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The second portion has a top part, a bottom part, and a middle part connecting the top part and the bottom part, the middle part including a base and a holder coupled to the base. The first portion and the second portion are pivotally coupled together at the bottom parts so that the top part of the first portion and the top part of the second portion can be closed to define a housing for receiving the mold assembly therein, wherein the top part of the first portion and the top part of the second portion can also be opened for receiving the mold assembly in the housing.

MODULATE PACING RATE TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF EFFECTIVE VENTRICULAR CAPTURE DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle. 1. An apparatus for determining whether a ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing a paced ventricle during atrial fibrillation , comprising:processing means for determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation;delivering means for delivering the ventricular pacing stimulus in response to determining the patient is in atrial fibrillation;sensing means for sensing a signal in response to the ventricular pacing stimulus;processing means for determining whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is effectively capturing the paced ventricle;modifying means for modifying a pacing rate during atrial fibrillation in response to the determination of effective capture; andincreasing a percentage of effective ventricular capture during atrial fibrillation responsive to modifying the pacing rate during atrial fibrillation.2. The apparatus of wherein the processing means for determining whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing the paced ventricle is periodically performed to maximize battery life.3. The apparatus of wherein periodically determining whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing the paced ventricle occurs solely during atrial fibrillation.4. The apparatus of wherein the ventricular pacing stimulus is left ventricular (LV) occurring at a LV tip electrode claim 1 , and a monitoring vector is selected from one of a Lvtip-Rvcoil or a Lvtip-device case.5. The ...

MODULATE PACING RATE TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF EFFECTIVE VENTRICULAR CAPTURE DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle. 1. An apparatus for determining whether a ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing a paced ventricle during atrial fibrillation , comprising:processing means for determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation;delivering means for delivering the ventricular pacing stimulus in response to determining the patient is in atrial fibrillation;sensing means for sensing a signal in response to the ventricular pacing stimulus;processing means for determining whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is effectively capturing the paced ventricle;modifying means for modifying a pacing rate during atrial fibrillation in response to the determination of effective capture; andincreasing a percentage of effective ventricular capture during atrial fibrillation responsive to modifying the pacing rate during atrial fibrillation.2. The apparatus of wherein the processing means for determining whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing the paced ventricle is periodically performed to maximize battery life.3. The apparatus of wherein periodically determining whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing the paced ventricle occurs solely during atrial fibrillation.4. The apparatus of wherein the ventricular pacing stimulus is left ventricular (LV) occurring at a LV tip electrode claim 1 , and a monitoring vector is selected from one of a Lvtip-Rvcoil or a Lvtip-device case.5. The ...

MODULATE PACING RATE TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF EFFECTIVE VENTRICULAR CAPTURE DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle. 1. An apparatus for determining whether a ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing a paced ventricle during atrial fibrillation , comprising:processing means for determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation;processing means for adjusting a heart rate (HR) target level to a first HR target level;processing means for holding the first HR target level;processing means for disabling effective capture analysis;processing means for determining whether a number of sensed ventricular events out of a total number of ventricular events exceeds a pre-specified level; andadjusting the first HR target level to a second HR target level responsive to determining the number of sensed ventricular events out of the total number of ventricular events exceeds the pre-specified level.2. The apparatus of wherein the apparatus determines whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing a paced ventricle during atrial fibrillation is performed solely during a duty cycle mode.3. The apparatus of further comprising:processing means for determining whether the total ventricular events has been processed; andenabling the effective capture analysis in response to determining whether the total ventricular events has been processed.4. The apparatus of further comprising:processing means for determining effectively captured beats of another predetermined number of ventricular events.5. The apparatus ...

MODULATE PACING RATE TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF EFFECTIVE VENTRICULAR CAPTURE DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle. 1. An apparatus increasing a percentage of ventricular pacing stimuli delivered during atrial fibrillation that are effectively capturing a paced ventricle , comprising:means for determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation;means for delivering a plurality of ventricular pacing stimuli at an initial pacing rate while the patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation;means for determining whether individual ones of the delivered plurality of ventricular pacing stimuli are effectively capturing the paced ventricle;means for determining a percentage of effective ventricular capture by the delivered individual ventricular pacing stimuli;means for increasing the percentage of effective ventricular capture by modifying the initial pacing rate in response to the determination of percentage of effective capture and by subsequently delivering ventricular pacing stimuli at the modified pacing rate.2. The apparatus of wherein the means for determining whether the ventricular pacing stimulus is capturing the paced ventricle periodically performs the determination in order to maximize battery life.3. The apparatus of wherein the periodic determining of whether the ventricular pacing stimuli are effectively capturing the paced ventricle occurs solely during atrial fibrillation.4. The apparatus of further comprising means for acquiring an EGM in response to determining that an individual ...

Squeezable two-piece stand-up tube

Modulate pacing rate to increase the percentage of effective ventricular capture during atrial fibrillation

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle.

Recombinant aav for treatment of neural disease

The disclosure pertains to a recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) comprising an Anc80L65 capsid for delivering a polynucleotide (e.g., a transgene) into the central nervous system (CNS). Further provided includes methods for treating CNS diseases using the rAAV and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the rAAV.

Fc-enhanced antibodies for prevention and treatment of ebola virus infection

Described herein are Fc-enhanced antibodies and methods of use thereof. Also described are Fc-enhanced antibodies to treat Ebola virus infection.

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

An apparatus and method for holding a mold assembly (11) and molding an optical lens using the same. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for holding a mold assembly (11), wherein the mold assembly (11) includes a front mold (12), a back mold (14) and a strip (20) wrapping around the edges (13, 15) of the front mold (12) and back mold (14), respectively, to form a sleeve. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first portion (102) and a second portion (152). The first portion (102) has a top part (104), a bottom part (108) and a middle part (106) connecting the top part (104) and the bottom part (108), the middle part (106) including a base (116) and a holder (118) coupled to the base (116). The second portion (152) has a top part (154), a bottom part (158), and a middle part (156) connecting the top part (154) and the bottom part (158), the middle part (156) including a base (166) and a holder (168) coupled to the base (166). The first portion (102) and the second portion (152) are pivotally coupled together at the bottom parts (108, 158) so that the top part (104) of the first portion (102) and the top part (154) of the second portion (152) can be closed to define a housing (120) for receiving the mold assembly (11) therein, wherein the top part (104) of the first portion (102) and the top part (154) of the second portion (152) can also be opened for receiving the mold assembly (11) in the housing (120).

Molds and method of using the same for optical lenses

Mobile converter installation for distribution of direct current for traction line feeding

Modulate pacing rate to increase the percentage of effective ventricular capture during atrial fibrillation

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle. The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for determining whether ventricular pacing stimuli are capturing a paced ventricle during atrial fibrillation, comprising: processing means (80) configured to determine whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation; delivering means (62,64,66) configured to deliver the ventricular pacing stimuli in response to determining the patient is in atrial fibrillation; sensing means (40,42,44) configured to sense signals in response to the ventricular pacing stimuli; processing means for determining whether the ventricular pacing stimuli are effectively capturing the paced ventricle over a series of the delivered ventricular pacing stimuli, the determination of whether the ventricular pacing are effectively capturing the paced ventricle comprising determining a number of consecutive ones of the series that effectively capture the paced ventricle; and modifying means for modifying a pacing rate during atrial fibrillation in response to the determination of effective capture by the ventricular pacing stimuli delivered during the series; wherein the modification to the pacing rate is based upon the determined number of consecutive ones of the series that effectively captured the paced ventricle.

Apparatus and method for detecting, confirming and terminating pacemaker mediated tachycardia

A pacemaker (1) for automatically confirming the presence of, and terminating, pacemaker mediated tachycardia (PMT). A number of V-pace to A-sense intervals are measured. If the measured intervals are consistent, it is possible that there is retrograde conduction giving rise to PMT. To confirm that the A-senses were not due to noise, atrial premature beats, etc., several ventricular pacing pulses are generated in a manner that eliminates the possibility of atrial beats being due to retrograde conduction; a series of simultaneous atrial and ventricular pacing pulses are generated. If A-senses consistent with the previously measured intervals are not sensed, retrograde conduction is confirmed. The PMT should have been terminated by the simultaneous atrial and ventricular pacing, but in any event the PVARP may be lengthened to exceed the longest measured V-pace to A-sense interval.

Method and apparatus for holding a mold assembly and molding an optical lens using the same

Methods of applying a coating to an optical surface

Modulate pacing rate to increase the percentage of effective ventricular capture during atrial fibrillation

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle.

Recombinant aav for treatment of neural disease

The disclosure pertains to a recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) comprising an Anc80L65 capsid for delivering a polynucleotide ( e.g. , a transgene) into the central nervous system (CNS). Further provided includes methods for treating CNS diseases using the rAAV and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the rAAV.

Modulate pacing rate to increase the percentage of effective ventricular capture during atrial fibrillation

Multi-chip module

Taylor series-based transmission line equalization scheme

An equalization scheme for a transmission line employs a Taylor series expansion which enables the provided equalization to be adjusted based on line length. Multiple circuit blocks compute respective terms of the Taylor series, which are then summed to provide a compensating frequency response. For example, for a conductor having a frequency response given by H(f)=e −kl(1+j)√{square root over (f)} , where k is a constant dependent on the physical parameters of the conductor, l is the length of the conductor and f is the frequency of the signal propagated via the conductor, the present scheme provides an inverse frequency response H −1 (f) given by H −1 (f)= 1 + kl ⁢ f 1 ! + k 2 ⁢ l 2 ⁢ f 2 ! + k 3 ⁢ l 3 ⁢ f 2 3 ! + … . The kl terms serve as weighting factors which vary with the length of the conductor.

Methods of applying a coating to an optical surface

A method for applying a coating to an optical surface of an optical device. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of placing a coating solution in a cliche of a cliche plate, transferring the coating solution from the cliche to deformable body of a transfer pad, and pressing the transfer pad to the optical surface so as to transfer the coating solution from the deformable body of the transfer pad to the optical surface. The method further includes a step of irradiating the coating solution associated with the optical surface at a wavelength of microwave so as to form a coating layer on the optical surface. The coating layer can be further cured to form a desired coating on a proper optical surface. The optical device can be an optical lens having at least one optical surface, or a mold that can be used to produce an optical lens. In other words, the present invention allows a coating to be applied directly to an optical surface of an optical lens. Alternatively, a coating can be first applied to an optical surface of an optical lens during casting process.

Stand-up tube with a dispensing nose

A container comprising a radially surrounding container sidewall (110) having a first end and a second end, a dome (150) coupled to the container sidewall at the first end, and a container nose (170) coupled to the container sidewall at the second end. The dome comprises a neck portion (140) for permanently sealing the container at the neck portion. The container nose encloses a channel leading into a space surrounded by the container sidewall.

Gerät und Verfahren zur Behandlung von Tachykardien mittels einer virtuellen Elektrode

Modular flow cytometry systems and methods of processing samples

Modular flow cytometry systems and methods for processing samples are described herein. The systems include automated or semi-automated modules that are replaceable and removable. A sample pathway module may be removed and placed in a microfluidic device cleaning module for cleaning, and then reinstalled or stored for later use. The systems further include optical modules, electronics modules, and mixing and collection modules. The optical module includes a photo-damaging assembly and detection laser assembly that may be on the same side relative to a plane or surface of a flow cytometry device and opposite of a detection assembly. The laser beam may have a beam waist that is wider in a direction perpendicular to a flow direction than in the flow direction. The mixing and collection module can automatically mix a sample being collected in a sample tube and switch to another sample tube when the other tube is full.

Modulate pacing rate to increase the percentage of effective ventricular capture during atrial fibrillation

The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle.

Gerät und Verfahren zur Behandlung von Tachykardien mittels einer virtuellen Elektrode

Semiconductor package of multiple-transmission substrate on chip

Low voltage shutdown circuit

A low voltage shutdown circuit comprises an input node for receiving a voltage V in to be monitored, first and second voltage-to-current (V to I) converters arranged to receive V in at respective inputs and to convert V in to currents I 1 and I 2 at respective outputs, and a current comparison circuit arranged to produce an output which is in a first state when I 1 <I 2 and in a second state when I 1 >I 2 . The V to I converters have respective voltage-to-current transfer functions which intersect at a non-zero threshold voltage V th , such that the current comparison circuit output toggles when V in <V th . This output can be used as needed to, for example, trigger the shut down of other circuitry.

Ball grid array package structure

Herzschrittmacher mit Sicherheitsstimulation

Lens molds and method of using the same

A method and apparatus for forming a lens using two molds that interconnect together so that their respective interior surfaces form the negative image of the lens to be cast therein. The molds are preferably made of plastic. A monomer fills the volume formed by the interior surfaces of the molds and is cured or polymerized to form a lens having desired dimensions and characteristics. It is noted that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to ascertain quickly the subject matter of the technical disclosure. The abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims pursuant to 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b).

Device for positioning a chip in the chip adhering process

Modular assembly structure of thin-type system

Flip chip packaging semiconductor having substrate for multiple transmissions

Low voltage shutdown circuit

A low voltage shutdown circuit comprises an input node for receiving a voltage V in to be monitored, first and second voltage-to-current (V to I) converters arranged to receive V in at respective inputs and to convert V in to currents I 1 and I 2 at respective outputs, and a current comparison circuit arranged to produce an output which is in a first state when I 1 <I 2 and in a second state when I 1 >I 2. The V to I converters have respective voltage-to-current transfer functions which intersect at a non-zero threshold voltage V th , such that the current comparison circuit output toggles when V in <V th . This output can be used as needed to, for example, trigger the shut down of other circuitry.

Semiconductor package structure for increasing heat dissipation and resisting bend

Chip stack structure with heat conduction plate

Semiconductor packaging structure of chip and lead frame assemblies

Flip chip stack structure

Stacked structure of substrate and lead frame for semiconductor package

Ultra-thin semiconductor package structure with heat dissipating gain

Planar laminate switch assembly

Contenedor tubular comprimible compuesto de dos piezas una superior de superficie planar que sirve de base y una inferior que termina en un pliegue

SE REFIERE A UN CONTENEDOR CONSTITUIDO POR: A)UNA PIEZA SUPERIOR QUE COMPRENDE UNA PARED LATERAL TUBULAR QUE ESTA CONFORMADA POR UN PRIMER MATERIAL, UNA CUPULA QUE CUBRE UNO DE LOS EXTREMOS DE LA PARED LATERAL TUBULAR DE LA PIEZA SUPERIOR Y UNA INTERCONEXION ARTICULADA QUE SE CONFORMA ENTRE LA CUPULA Y LA PARED LATERAL TUBULAR DE DICHA PIEZA SUPERIOR; B)UNA PIEZA INFERIOR QUE CONSTA DE UNA PARED LATERAL TUBULAR QUE SE CONFORMA MEDIANTE UN SEGUNDO MATERIAL; Y, C) UNA REGION QUE UNE AMBAS PIEZAS, LA CUAL ESTA CONFORMADA ENTRE LA PIEZA SUPERIOR Y LA PIEZA INFERIOR, PARA UNIR DICHA PIEZA SUPERIOR CON LA PIEZA INFERIOR

Stacked structure of chip and lead frame

Strengthening structure of TCP leading pin

Planar laminate switch assembly

Chip stacked package with bottom lead frame