Citing References

The work of Vadim Yuzhakov is referenced in 5800 publications summarized on Google Scholar:

http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=jLHI-dYAAAAJ

 

Here are just a few examples of referencing publications:

 

US7491341B2

Method of making tapered capillary tips with constant inner diameters

Battelle Memorial Institute

2/17/2009

Methods of forming electrospray ionization emitter tips are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an end portion of a capillary tube can be immersed into an etchant, wherein the etchant forms a concave meniscus on the outer surface of the capillary. Variable etching rates in the meniscus can cause an external taper to form. While etching the outer surface of the capillary wall, a fluid can be flowed through the interior of the capillary tube. Etching continues until the immersed portion of the capillary tube is completely etched away.

 

US7491178B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

2/17/2009

A body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site has a housing and a penetrating member driver at least partially within the housing. At least one disposable is within the housing. The disposable includes an analyte sensor in a sample chamber that is configured to receive body fluid from a wound in tissue created by a penetrating member. A penetrating member is associated with the sample chamber. Each penetrating member and its associated sample chamber have a combined occupied volume of no more than about 5.0 cm3.

 

US7489959B1

Physiological recording device

Orbital Research Inc.

2/10/2009

The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidmermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

 

US7488298B2

Integrated lancing test strip with capillary transfer sheet

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

2/10/2009

An integrated bodily fluid sampling device includes a lancet, a test strip attached to the lancet, and a flexible sheet extending from the test strip. The lancet and the flexible sheet form a gap sized to draw bodily fluid onto the test strip via capillary action. Further, a sampling end portion of the flexible sheet is shaped to enhance capillary action of the sheet. In one form, a removable film covers the lancet and forms a seal with the flexible sheet such that the seal surrounds a lancet tip. In another form, an insulating layer covers a portion of the lancet to prevent electrical interference between the lancet and an electrical testing system on the test strip and ensure an accurate analysis of the bodily fluid.

 

US7485128B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

2/3/2009

A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of cartridges, each with a distal port and a proximal port. A plurality of penetrating members are provided, each being coupled to a cartridge. Each penetrating member has a sharpened distal tip and a shaft portion slidably disposed within the cartridge. A seal is formed by a fracturable material between the penetrating member and the cartridge. The seal is positioned at one or both of a distal port or a proximal port of the cartridge. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, skin penetrating performance or a skin penetrating setting.

 

US7481776B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

1/27/2009

A skin penetrating system is provided with a drive force generator and a disposable housing member. A plurality of penetrating members are positioned in the disposable housing member. Each penetrating member is coupled to the drive force generator. A plurality of analyte detecting members are each associated with a penetrating member and are positioned in the disposable housing member. Each analyte detecting member is positioned in a sample chamber. The sample chambers have openings for transport of a body fluid into the sample chamber. Each analyte detecting member is configured to determine a concentration of an analyte in a body fluid. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, skin penetrating performance or a skin penetrating setting.

 

US7479118B2

Lancet protective cap

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

1/20/2009

A unique technique for maintaining the sterility and integrity of a lancet tip. One or more lancet tips are sandwiched between a first web and a second web of material to protect the sterility of the lancet tips. The first and second webs are heat fused together to form a structure that covers and encapsulates the lancet tips to protect the integrity of the lancet tips. The structure is cut to form individual protective caps to detachably cover each of the lancet tips.

 

US7473264B2

Integrated lance and strip for analyte measurement

Lifescan, Inc.

1/6/2009

The present invention relates, in general, to lancing elements for use in drawing bodily fluids out of a patient and, more particularly, to an improved lancing element including first and second elements positioned relative to each other such that an incision formed by the first element is held open by the second element and bodily fluids are pulled up the lancing element by surface tension on the first and second lancing elements.

 

US7471979B2

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

Mattioli Engineering Ltd.

12/30/2008

A system for enhancing absorption of a substance provided on a region of a patient's skin, includes a probe configured to provide the substance to the region of the patient's skin. The probe includes an array of electrodes provided on a head of the probe. The probe also includes a substance holding unit that temporarily holds the substance to be provided on the region of the patient's skin. The probe further includes a pulse generator that generates a sequence of bursts of electrical pulses to the array of electrodes that are disposed against the region of the patient's skin, so as to provide the bursts of electrical pulses to the region of the patient's skin. The probe also includes a substance applying unit that transfers the substance from the substance holding unit to the head of the probe. The pulse generator provides for pulses to be output in alternate polarities in each of the sequence of bursts.

 

WO2008150829A1

COMPACT MINIMALLY INVASIVE BIOMEDICAL MONITOR

INFOTONICS TECHNOLOGY CENTER, INC. | MIR, Jose | LEE, James, Kelly

12/11/2008

A biomedical monitor is disclosed. The biomedical monitor has an array of moveable microneedles coated with a first chemical sensing media. The biomedical monitor also has an actuator configured to move at least one microneedle in the array of microneedles from a retracted position to an engaged position whereby the at least one microneedle enters a subject's skin. The biomedical monitor further has an optical system configured to illuminate the at least one microneedle during or after entering the subject's skin and monitor the first chemical sensing media from the at least one microneedle, whereby at least one biomedical characteristic is determined based on at least one spectral property of the monitored first chemical sensing media. A method of monitoring at least one biomedical characteristic is also disclosed.

 

US7458982B2

Photokinetic delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light

Photokinetix, Inc.

12/2/2008

The invention relates generally to transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances through the skin, sub-dermal tissues, blood vessels and cellular membranes without causing damage to the cellular surface, tissue or membrane. The invention provides compositions and methods for enhanced transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light. The invention further provides a device for the application of the pulsed incoherent light to cellular surfaces and membranes using those compositions and methods.

 

WO2008141006A1

SAMPLE PREPARATION DEVICE AND METHOD UTILIZING POLYMIDE TUBE

VARIAN, INC. | GRENZ, Robert, Lee | HUDSON, William, Christopher

11/20/2008

Polyamide sample preparation tubes with a hollow polyamide tube and an extraction medium contained within the tube are utilized in the sample preparation devices. The sample preparation tubes are substantially inert and show little tendency to dissolve or leach contaminants into nonaqueous liquids. The polyamide tubes may be used in preparing samples for analytical procedures such as GC, GC/MS, LC or LC/MS.

 

US7452457B2

System and method for analyte measurement using dose sufficiency electrodes

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

11/18/2008

A method of measuring an analyte in a biological fluid comprises applying an excitation signal having a DC component and an AC component. The AC and DC responses are measured; a corrected DC response is determined using the AC response; and a concentration of the analyte is determined based upon the corrected DC response. Other methods and devices are disclosed.

 

US7442029B2

Imprint lithography

ASML Netherlands B.V.

10/28/2008

An imprint lithography apparatus is disclosed which has a needle, and a substrate table arranged to hold a substrate to be imprinted, wherein the needle is moveable between a first position and a second position, the first position being such that in use the needle penetrates a layer of imprintable material on the substrate, and the second position being such that in use the needle is disengaged from the imprintable material on the substrate, the substrate table and the needle arranged such that one may be scanned relative to the other.

 

GB2448493A

Microneedle transdermal device

Chowdhury, Dewan Fazlul Hoque

10/22/2008

The device comprises microneedles arranged on a belt mounted rotatably about a plurality of rollers. The microneedles may be in fluid communication with an associated drug reservoir mounted on the belt which is compressed when the needles and belt are brought into contact with the skin. The microneedles may be arranged on a patch which is mounted on the belt. The rollers may be slidably mounted on a glide track which is mounted on a support frame.

 

EP1982653A1

Pricking device and analysis device

Roche Diagnostics GmbH | F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG

10/22/2008

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Stechgerдt (2) zum Erzeugen einer Einstichwunde in der Haut eines Menschen oder Tieres zum Gewinnen einer Probe einer Kцrperflьssigkeit fьr Analyse- oder Diagnosezwecke, insbesondere mit integrierten Disposables, die sowohl ein Stechelement (6) als auch eine zugehцriges Testelement umfassen. Um eine hohe Erfolgsrate bei dem Gewinnen einer Probe zu erzielen, wird vorgeschlagen, dass der Antrieb (5) derart ausgebildet ist, dass das Stechelement (6) oder das Testelement in eine Kontaktposition verfahrbar ist, in der es wдhrend einer Ausfahrdauer im Bereich der Kцrperteilanlageцffnung (13) in einer Position verbleibt, in der es von einem Benutzer des Stechgerдtes (2) durch eine manuelle Positionierung des Stechgerдtes (2) zum manuellen Aufnehmen einer Probe mit der Probenentnahmestelle in Kontakt bringbar ist wenn die bei einer Stechbewegung gewonnene Probemenge nicht zum Durchfьhren der Analyse oder Diagnose ausreicht.

 

US7439069B2

Blood coagulation test cartridge, system, and method

10/21/2008

A system and method for determining a coagulation time, e.g., thrombin time, PT, aPTT, and ACT, of a blood sample deposited in a test cartridge is disclosed. The test cartridge includes a blood receptacle that is open to the atmosphere into which a blood sample is to be deposited, a vacuum port that is open to atmosphere, and a spiral capillary within the test cartridge having a capillary length and cross-section area, a first capillary end of the spiral capillary open to the blood receptacle and a second capillary end of the spiral capillary open to the vacuum port, whereby the spiral capillary is closed to atmosphere. When a blood sample is deposited in the blood receptacle, a vacuum is drawn through the vacuum port and the blood is drawn through the spiral capillary until coagulation occurs. A pressure change is detected, and the coagulation time is measured.

 

EP1980206A1

Minimal procedure analyte test system

LifeScan, Inc.

10/15/2008

A system employing an integrated analyte test strip including a biosensor and lancet is disclosed. The integration of lancet and the sensor elements eliminates the need to align the sensor to the biologic fluid sample after a lancet and lancing device are used in combination to pierce the skin. The system preferably includes a device comprising two body portions that slide relative to each other to both cock and fire a test strip at a target site. Meter reading and test strip disposal may be accomplished by removing the device from the target site. The device preferably employs a magazine loaded with test strips, with one strip being taken from the magazine each time the device is actuated. It preferably also includes a magazine in a cap to store spent test strips for disposal. The device may be turned on an off simply by removal and return of the cap.

 

US7437189B2

Iontophoresis device

TTI ellebeau, Inc.

10/14/2008

An iontophoresis device includes: a first electrode; a biological interface contact member including a substrate having a front surface and a rear surface, and a plurality of needles that protrude from the front surface of the substrate and can be inserted into a biological interface, the biological interface contact member allowing selective permeation of ions of a first polarity; and a drug holding part applied with an electrical potential or voltage through the first electrode and holding a drug solution containing drug ions charged in the first polarity, the drug holding part being interposed between the first electrode and the biological interface contact member.

 

US7429258B2

Microneedle transport device

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

9/30/2008

A transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and an array of needles which have bores in fluid communication with the reservoir to facilitate transporting the formulation to and from the reservoir through the needles. The device also includes a first actuator which drives the array of needles into the body, and a second actuator which pumps the formulation between the reservoir and the body through the needles. The first actuator is reversible to withdraw the needles from the body.

 

US7426408B2

Minimally-invasive system and method for monitoring analyte levels

Becton, Dickinson and Company

9/16/2008

A minimally-invasive analyte detecting device and method for using the same. The system and method employ a device having an active electrode optionally coated with a substance, and a counter-electrode that is configured at least partially surround the active electrode. The configuration of the auxiliary electrode and active electrode improves the current flow through the device and increases the sensitivity of the device. When the device is placed against the patient's skin, the active electrode is adapted to enter through the stratum corneum of a patient to a depth less than a depth in the dermis at which nerve endings reside. An electric potential is applied to the active electrode and the analyte level is determined based on the amount of current or charge flowing through the device.

 

US7425204B2

Needleless injector

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

9/16/2008

An injector includes a housing having a chamber for holding a liquid formulation of an active principle to be injected into a biological body and an output port in fluid communication with the chamber through which the liquid formulation is injected. A piston is positioned within the housing, and includes an end portion with substantially the same shape as the chamber. A magnetic force draws the piston and housing together to expel the liquid formulation out of the chamber through the output port.

 

US7422905B2

Blood coagulation test cartridge, system, and method

Medtronic, Inc.

9/9/2008

A system and method for determining a coagulation time, e.g., TT, PT, aPTT, and ACT, of a test sample deposited in a test cartridge is disclosed. A cartridge housing having upper and lower major sides and a minor sidewall encloses a test chamber having a test chamber pivot element and is provided with a cartridge port for introducing a test sample into the test chamber. Ferromagnetic agitator vane leaflets extend from an agitator pivot element supported by the test chamber pivot element intermediate the upper and lower major sides for rotational motion. The agitator vane leaflets can be swept, in response to an external magnetic field, through the test sample in the absence of coagulation. A timer is started when the agitator movement is commenced whereupon the agitator moves freely. Resistance to agitator movement due to coagulation is detected, and the coagulation time is measured.

 

US7422574B2

Microseeding device for gene delivery by microneedle injection

Applied Tissue Technologies, LLC

9/9/2008

An apparatus is provided to enable the direct gene transfer of genetic material into a target cell site (“microseeding”), as a means of obtaining long term expression of native or non-native polypeptides in a host. The apparatus includes a matrix of microneedles that oscillate at a predetermined frequency and receive the genetic material from a delivery system that is integrated with the apparatus.

 

US7422567B2

Microabrader with controlled abrasion features

Becton, Dickinson and Company

9/9/2008

An abrader device for delivering a substance into skin via an abrasion process includes a housing adapted to be pressed against the skin at a desired delivery site, an applicator head disposed in an upper opening of the housing and movable across a lower opening of the housing to abrade the delivery site in at least one furrow, and an abrader surface attached to the applicator head whereby the housing remains firm and stationary at the delivery site and structure of the housing and the applicator head controls parameters of the abrasion process. In particular, the amount of force or pressure applied to the abrader surface, the speed at which the abrader surface moves across the skin and the number of lateral passes of the abrader surface across the skin are controlled so that the abrader device provides a furrow with a length of substantially the same depth thereby providing reproducible results, even though different technicians are applying the abrader device against a patient's skin.

 

US20080206880A9

BLOOD COAGULATION TEST CARTRIDGE, SYSTEM, AND METHOD

8/28/2008

A system and method for determining a coagulation time, e.g., TT, PT, aPTT, and ACT, of a test sample deposited in a test cartridge is disclosed. A cartridge housing having upper and lower major sides and a minor sidewall encloses a test chamber having a test chamber pivot element and is provided with a cartridge port for introducing a test sample into the test chamber,. Ferromagnetic agitator vane leaflets extend from an agitator pivot element supported by the test chamber pivot element intermediate the upper and lower major sides for rotational motion. The agitator vane leaflets can be swept, in response to an external magnetic field, through the test sample in the absence of coagulation. A timer is started when the agitator movement is commenced whereupon the agitator moves freely. Resistance to agitator movement due to coagulation is detected, and the coagulation time is measured.

 

WO2008099837A1

BIOSENSOR CARTRIDGE AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY | SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD. | FUJIMURA, Tsuyoshi | NAKAMURA, Hideaki | ISHIKAWA, Tomoko | GOTOH, Masao | KARUBE, Isao | KITAMURA, Takahiko | KAIMORI, Shingo | HOSOYA, Toshifumi

8/21/2008

Provided are a biosensor cartridge capable of being easily replaced without removing a protective cap at the f0rward end of a measurement device, and a method of producing the biosensor cartridge. A holding projection (20), which is provided on a base (21), can be easily post-attached by engaging an engagement section (23) of a base (21) with an engagement cutout (12) of a chip body (11). At the same time, a piercing device can also be easily post-attached. Accordingly, even a produced biosensor cartridge (10) can be provided with the holding projection (20) by forming the engagement cutout (12), so that the user can easily attach and remove the biosensor cartridge from the measurement device (31) by holding the holding projection (20) by fingers without removing the protective cap (33) of the measurement device (31).

 

WO2008079812A3

DERMAL AND TRANSDERMAL CRYOGENIC MICROPROBE SYSTEMS AND METHODS

MYOSCIENCE, INC. | BURGER, Keith | WILLIAMS, Ronald | ELKINS, Lisa

8/21/2008

Medical devices, systems, and methods optionally treat dermatological and/or cosmetic defects, and/or a wide range of additional target tissues. Embodiments apply cooling with at least one small, tissue-penetrating probe, the probe often comprising a needle having a size suitable for inserting through an exposed surface of the skin of a patient without leaving a visible scar. Treatment may be applied along most or all of the insertable length of an elongate needle, optionally by introducing cryogenic cooling fluid into the needle lumen through a small, tightly-tolerated lumen of a fused silica fluid supply tube, with the supply tube lumen often metering the cooling fluid. Treatment temperature and/or time control may be enhanced using a simple pressure relief valve coupled to the needle lumen via a limited total exhaust volume space.

 

US7410468B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

8/12/2008

A skin penetrating system includes a housing member and a penetrating member positioned in the housing member. An analyte detecting member is coupled to a sample chamber. The analyte detecting member is configured to determine a concentration of an analyte in a body fluid using a sample of less than 1 μL of a body fluid disposed in the sample chamber. A tip of the penetrating member is configured to extend through an opening of the sample chamber.

 

WO2008042404A3

ELECTROKINETIC SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING METHOTREXATE

TRANSPORT PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. | ETHEREDGE, Robert, W, III | GOLDBERG, Dennis, I. | FRIDEN, Phillip, M. | PETERSEN, John, S.

8/7/2008

The electrokinetic methotrexate delivery system includes at least one applicator having a multiplicity of non-conductive micro-needles carried on a non-conductive surface of the applicator. The opposite surface is formed of electrically conductive material for contact with an active electrode. The applicator includes a matrix containing a medicament, e.g., methotrexate, or a carrier therefor between the opposite surfaces. When the applicator is applied to the individual's skin with the micro-needles penetrating the skin, an electrical current is completed through the power source, the active electrode, methotrexate, or electrically conductive carrier therefor, the targeted treatment site, the individual's body, a ground electrode and the power supply, thereby electokinetically driving the medicament through the non-conductive micro-needles into the targeted treatment site.

 

US7399637B2

Blood coagulation test cartridge, system, and method

Medtronic, Inc.

7/15/2008

A system and method for determining a coagulation time, e.g., TT, PT, aPTT, and ACT, of a blood test sample deposited in a test cartridge is disclosed. A cartridge housing having upper and lower major sides and a minor sidewall encloses a test chamber having a test chamber pivot element and is provided with a cartridge port for introducing a test sample into the test chamber,. Ferromagnetic agitator vane leaflets extend from an agitator pivot element supported by the test chamber pivot element intermediate the upper and lower major sides for rotational motion. The agitator vane leaflets can be swept, in response to an external magnetic field, through the test sample in the absence of coagulation. A timer is started when the agitator movement is commenced whereupon the agitator moves freely. Resistance to agitator movement due to coagulation is detected, and the coagulation time is measured.

 

US7396484B2

Methods of fabricating complex blade geometries from silicon wafers and strengthening blade geometries

Becton, Dickinson and Company

7/8/2008

Ophthalmic surgical blades are manufactured from either a single crystal or poly-crystalline material, preferably in the form of a wafer. The method comprises preparing the single crystal or poly-crystalline wafers by mounting them and etching trenches into the wafers using one of several processes. Methods for machining the trenches, which form the bevel blade surfaces, include a diamond blade saw, laser system, ultrasonic machine, a hot forge press and a router. Other processes include wet etching (isotropic and anisotropic) and dry etching (isotropic and anisotropic, including reactive ion etching), and combinations of these etching steps. The wafers are then placed in an etchant solution which isotropically etches the wafers in a uniform manner, such that layers of crystalline or poly-crystalline material are removed uniformly, producing single, double or multiple bevel blades. Nearly any angle can be machined into the wafer, and the machined angle remains after etching. The resulting radii of the blade e

 

US7396334B2

Analytical device with lancet and test element

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

7/8/2008

The invention concerns an analytical device containing a lancet comprising a lancet needle and a lancet body, the lancet needle being movable relative to the lancet body and the lancet body being composed, at least in the area of the tip of the lancet needle, of an elastic material in which the tip of the lancet needle is embedded, and an analytical test element which is permanently connected to the lancet body. In addition the invention concerns an analytical device containing a lancet comprising a lancet needle and a lancet body which is in the form of a hollow body in the area of the tip of the lancet needle and surrounds the tip of the lancet needle, the lancet needle being movable relative to the lancet body and the hollow body being composed at least partially of an elastic material, and an analytical test element which is permanently connected to the lancet body. Finally the invention concerns a process for manufacturing such an analytical device.

 

WO2008079812A2

DERMAL AND TRANSDERMAL CRYOGENIC MICROPROBE SYSTEMS AND METHODS

MYOSCIENCE, INC. | BURGER, Keith | WILLIAMS, Ronald | ELKINS, Lisa

7/3/2008

Medical devices, systems, and methods optionally treat dermatological and/or cosmetic defects, and/or a wide range of additional target tissues. Embodiments apply cooling with at least one small, tissue-penetrating probe, the probe often comprising a needle having a size suitable for inserting through an exposed surface of the skin of a patient without leaving a visible scar. Treatment may be applied along most or all of the insertable length of an elongate needle, optionally by introducing cryogenic cooling fluid into the needle lumen through a small, tightly-tolerated lumen of a fused silica fluid supply tube, with the supply tube lumen often metering the cooling fluid. Treatment temperature and/or time control may be enhanced using a simple pressure relief valve coupled to the needle lumen via a limited total exhaust volume space.

 

WO2008043565A3

TAPE TRANSPORT LANCE SAMPLER

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

7/3/2008

A lancet-sampler system is configured to automatically remove a protective cover (56) from a lancet (30) and automatically unpack a test pad (64) just prior to use. This minimizes the risk of injury and reduces the chance of cross-contamination between the lancet and the test pad. The lancet defines a capillary groove (36) for drawing body fluid from the incision via capillary action and a sample transfer opening (38) for collecting the fluid from the groove. A carrier tape (62) is coupled to the lancet. The carrier tape includes a test pad for analyzing the fluid. The tape is folded around the test pad to form an airtight package (66). The test pad is located at a position to align with the sample transfer opening when the tape is unfolded. The protective cover covers a portion of the lancet, and when the tape is pulled, the protective cover is automatically pulled from the lancet.

 

US7390318B2

Needleless microprotrusion elastoplast system

Allergan, Inc.

6/24/2008

A needleless microprotrusion system for infusion of a medicament into a patient includes a plurality of microprotrusions having a length sufficient to penetrate a stratum corneum of the patient. A chemodenervating agent is disposed for delivery by the microprotrusions and a substrate is provided for supporting the microprotrusions and conforming the microprotrusions to a patient's palm in order to enable uniform penetration of the microprotrusions into the corneum.

 

WO2008073806A1

ACTIVE TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM

SABIC INNOVATIVE PLASTICS IP B.V. | BUTTERFIELD, Robert, Gordon | CHARLES, Michael

6/19/2008

A transdermal drug delivery system (100) that provides a self-regulatmg closed loop system for the delivery of drugs or other therapeutic agents through a user's skin. The transdermal system includes a substrate (105), a sensing system (115) for detecting the saturation level of the therapeutic agent in an individual's blood stream, and a drug delivery system for increasing the amount of therapeutic agent delivered to the individual using the transdermal system. Using a transdermal system that has a self-contained sensing system and drug delivery system, the transdermal systems of the present invention do not require external monitors and/or power supplies, such that the resulting transdermal systems are closed-loop and self -regulating.

 

EP1932564A1

Cosmetic use of anisic acid to enhance exfoliation

L'Orйal

6/18/2008

La prйsente invention porte sur l'utilisation cosmйtique d'une composition contenant, dans un milieu physiologiquement acceptable, de l'acide anisique, l'un de ses sels ou l'un de ses esters d'alkyle en C1-C4, pour favoriser la desquamation de la peau et/ou stimuler le renouvellement йpidermique.L'invention porte йgalement sur l'utilisation cosmйtique de l'acide anisique, l'un de ses sels ou l'un de ses esters d'alkyle en C1-C4 dans une composition contenant un milieu physiologiquement acceptable, comme agent destinй а favoriser la desquamation de la peau et/ou stimuler le renouvellement йpidermique.L'acide anisique, l'un de ses sels ou l'un de ses esters d'alkyle en C1-C4 ou la composition le contenant est notamment destinй а amйliorer l'йclat du teint et/ou le grain de la peau et/ou lisser le microrelief cutanй, et/ou attйnuer les tвches de vieillesse.

 

US7387742B2

Silicon blades for surgical and non-surgical use

Becton, Dickinson and Company

6/17/2008

Ophthalmic surgical blades are manufactured from either a crystalline or polycrystalline material, preferably in the form of a wafer. The method comprises preparing the crystalline or polycrystalline wafers by mounting them and machining trenches into the wafers. Methods for machining the trenches, which form the bevel blade surfaces, include a diamond blade saw, laser system, ultrasonic machine, a hot forge press and a router. The wafers are then placed in an etchant solution which isotropically etches the wafers in a uniform manner, such that layers of crystalline or polycrystalline material are removed uniformly, producing single, double or multiple bevel blades. Nearly any bevel angle can be machined into the wafer which remains after etching. The resulting radii of the blade edges is 5-500 nm, which is the same caliber as a diamond edged blade, but manufactured at a fraction of the cost. The ophthalmic surgical blades can be used for cataract and refractive surgical procedures, as well as microsurgical,

 

US7381736B2

Thiazole and thiadiazole inhibitors of tyrosine phosphatases

Metabasis Therapeutics, Inc.

6/3/2008

Compounds and compositions are provided for modulating the activity of protein tyrosine phosphatases. In one embodiment, the compounds and compositions are thiazoles and thiadiazoles that inhibit the activity of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B.

 

WO2008015277A3

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MARKING OBJECTS

HAMMELBACHER, Stephan

5/29/2008

The invention relates to a device and a method for marking objects. The points of several pen-shaped elements are pressed into the surface of the object (10), wherein the points of these elements penetrate into the surface of the object (10). During the penetrating, and/or after the penetrating of the points into the surface of the object (10), a dye is inserted into the object (10) at selected entry sites.

 

US7378097B2

Use of penetration enhancers and barrier disruption methods to enhance the immune response of antigen and adjuvant

The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army

5/27/2008

A transcutaneous immunization system where the topical application of an adjuvant and an antigen or nucleic acid encoding for an antigen, to intact skin induces a systemic or mucosol antibody response. The immune response so elicited can be enhanced by physical or chemical skin penetration enhancement.

 

US7377904B2

Cap displacement mechanism for lancing device and multi-lancet cartridge

Facet Technologies, LLC

5/27/2008

A medical lancing device including a replaceable multi-lancet cartridge. The lancing device includes an advancing mechanism that advances lancets within the cartridge into an active position, separates a protective cap from the active lancet, and energize a drive mechanism of the lancing device. A cap displacement mechanism moves the separated cap out of the travel path of the active lancet. In a first example embodiment, the cap displacement mechanism includes a cantilevered spring arm that displaces the detached cap of the active lancet. In a second example embodiment, the cap displacement mechanism includes a spring-biased cam-driven plunger that displaces the detached cap of the active lancet. Then an activation mechanism releases the energized active lancet to traverse the unobstructed lancing stroke path to pierce the subject's skin at a desired lancing site.

 

US7376460B2

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

Mattioli Engineering Ltd.

5/20/2008

A treatment method and apparatus for providing a substance to be absorbed onto a surface of a patient's skin, includes applying the substance onto the surface of the patient's skin by way of a probe head that provides, at the same time: i) bursts of electrical pulses to the skin surface, and ii) vibrations to the skin surface. The vibrations are applied to the skin surface at substantially a same frequency rate, a first harmonic of the same frequency rate, and/or a second harmonic of the same frequency rate, as a burst rate of electrical pulses being applied to the skin surface.

 

US7374949B2

Diagnostic test strip for collecting and detecting an analyte in a fluid sample

Bayer HealthCare LLC

5/20/2008

A test strip for the use of the determination of an analyte in a fluid sample according to one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. The test strip comprises of a base having a top and a bottom, a collection chamber that extends between the top and the bottom of the base, a containing ring that is disposed on the bottom of the base and surrounds the collection chamber, and a capillary channel formed in top of the base that has an inlet fluidly coupled to the collection chamber and a test element disposed within the capillary channel. A lid is attached to the top of the base and covers the collection chamber, the test area, and at least a portion of the capillary channel.

 

US7374546B2

Integrated lancing test strip

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

5/20/2008

An integrated bodily fluid sampling device is used to sample a bodily fluid from an incision in skin. The device includes a lancet for forming the incision in the skin. A housing is coupled to the lancet. The housing defines at least in part a capillary channel with an opening. The capillary channel is sized to draw the bodily fluid from the incision via capillary action. A test strip is positioned along the capillary channel for analyzing the fluid. In one form, a flexible sheet extends from the housing proximal the opening of the capillary channel for drawing the bodily fluid into the opening of the capillary channel. In another form, the lancet is slidably received inside the channel. During lancing, the lancet extends from the housing to form the incision. Fluid from the incision is drawn into the channel and is deposited on the test strip for analysis.

 

US7374544B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

5/20/2008

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes an electrically powered drive force generator. A penetrating member is operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves the member along a path out of a housing having a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. An analyte detecting member is positioned to receive fluid from a wound created by the penetrating member. The detection member is configured to determine a concentration of an analyte in the fluid using a sample of less than 1 mL of the fluid.

 

US7371247B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc

5/13/2008

A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of penetrating members each having a tip. A penetrating member driver is coupled to the plurality of penetrating members. Each tip of a penetrating member is uncovered during launch of the penetrating member by the penetrating member driver. A support is provided with a plurality of openings. Each opening receives a penetrating member.

 

EP1632263A4

PROCESS FOR PRODUCING PAD BASE FOR TRANSDERMAL DRUG ADMINISTRATION, PAD BASE FOR TRANSDERMAL DRUG ADMINISTRATION AND NEEDLE

4/30/2008

 

US7364568B2

Microneedle transdermal transport device

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

4/29/2008

A transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and a needle with a bore extending along the length of the needle from a first end of the needle to a second end of the needle. The second end is substantially aligned to a plane parallel to a body surface of a biological body when the device is placed on the body surface. The device also includes an actuator which pumps the formulation through the bore of the needle between a target area of the body and the reservoir.

 

US7361307B2

Biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices

LifeScan, Inc.

4/22/2008

A device for accessing biological fluid, sampling biological fluid constituents and determining the concentration of at least one target constituent within the accessed biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and to access biological fluid, a constituent sampling means and a constituent measuring means. The constituent sampling means comprises a constituent transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic gel material, by which sampled constituents are transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode through which at least one sampled constituent is caused to enter into the electrochemical cell. Methods of sampling constituents within the skin and measuring the sampled constituents, as well as kits for practicing the invention are provided.

 

US7361182B2

Medical lancet

Lightnix, Inc.

4/22/2008

One of aspects of the present invention is to provide a medical lancet, which includes a first ascending region, a descending region, and a second ascending region subsequently and integrally formed of biodegradable material. Those regions extend from a point of the lancet in a predetermined direction, and each of the regions having triangular cross sections taken along any planes perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The first and second ascending regions have the triangular cross sections of which area monotonically increases as being away from the point. Also, the descending region has the triangular cross sections of which area monotonically decreases as being away from the point. The first and second ascending regions have the largest cross section having substantially the same size and shape to each other.

 

WO2008043565A2

TAPE TRANSPORT LANCE SAMPLER

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

4/17/2008

A lancet-sampler system is configured to automatically remove a protective cover from a lancet and automatically unpack a test pad just prior to use. This minimizes the risk of injury and reduces the chance of cross-contamination between the lancet and the test pad. The lancet defines a capillary groove for drawing body fluid from the incision via capillary action and a sample transfer opening for collecting the fluid from the groove. A carrier tape is coupled to the lancet. The carrier tape includes a test pad for analyzing the fluid. The tape is folded around the test pad to form an airtight package. The test pad is located at a position to align with the sample transfer opening when the tape is unfolded. The protective cover covers a portion of the lancet, and when the tape is pulled, the protective cover is automatically pulled from the lancet.

 

WO2008043498A1

LANCET WITH CAPILLARY CHANNEL

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG | WERNER, Gerhard | HAAR, Hans-Peter

4/17/2008

The invention relates to a lancet of a lancet body (2) which has a lancet tip (3) for creating a puncture wound and a capillary channel (4) to convey body fluids out of the puncture wound in a direction of conveyance (F), wherein the capillary channel (4) is formed by a slot which runs though the entire lancet body (2) perpendicular to the direction of conveyance (F), and a test area (5) for optically inspecting a body fluid sample which is conveyed by the capillary channel (4). The test area (5) is constructed as a section of the slot (4) and has a transparent component (6,7,30) with a moistening surface for moistening with a body fluid sample for inspection. The invention further relates to a pricking system comprising such a lancet and a pricking device for creating a puncture wound.

 

EP1911394A1

Lancet with capillar channel

Roche Diagnostics GmbH | F.HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

4/16/2008

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Lanzette einem Lanzettenkцrper (2), der eine Lanzettenspitze (3) zum Erzeugen einer Einstichwunde und einen Kapillarkanal (4) zum Fцrdern von Kцrperflьssigkeit aus einer Einstichwunde in einer Fцrderrichtung (F) aufweist, wobei der Kapfllдrkanal (4) von einem Schlitz gebildet ist, der durch den Lanzettenkцrper (2) senkrecht zu der Fцrderrichtung (F) vollstдndig hindurchgeht, und einem Testbereich (5) zum optischen Untersuchen einer mittels des Kapillarkanals (4) gefцrderten Kцrperflьssigkeitsprobe, wobei der Testbereich (5) als ein Abschnitt des Schlitzes (4) ausgebildet ist und ein transparentes Bauteil (6,7,30) umfasst, das eine Benetzungsflдche zum Benetzen mit einer zu untersuchenden Kцrperflьssigkeitsprobe aufweist.Die Erfindung betrifft ferner ein Stechsystem umfassend eine derartige Lanzette und ein Stechgerдt zum Erzeugen einer Einstichwunde.

 

WO2008042404A2

ELECTROKINETIC SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING METHOTREXATE

TRANSPORT PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. | ETHEREDGE, Robert, W, III | GOLDBERG, Dennis, I. | FRIDEN, Phillip, M. | PETERSEN, John, S.

4/10/2008

The electrokinetic methotrexate delivery system includes at least one applicator having a multiplicity of non-conductive micro-needles carried on a non-conductive surface of the applicator. The opposite surface is formed of electrically conductive material for contact with an active electrode. The applicator includes a matrix containing a medicament, e.g., methotrexate, or a carrier therefor between the opposite surfaces. When the applicator is applied to the individual's skin with the micro-needles penetrating the skin, an electrical current is completed through the power source, the active electrode, methotrexate, or electrically conductive carrier therefor, the targeted treatment site, the individual's body, a ground electrode and the power supply, thereby electokinetically driving the medicament through the non-conductive micro-needles into the targeted treatment site.

 

US7347961B2

Method and system having a flowable pressure pad for consolidating an uncured laminate sheet in a cure process

The Boeing Company

3/25/2008

A method and system (10) having a flowable pressure pad (22) for consolidating an uncured laminate sheet (14) during a cure cycle is provided. The system (10) includes an autoclave machine (12) for utilizing a pinmat (20) for to perforate and consolidate the sheet (14). This pinmat (20) has a mat portion (28) and a plurality of pins (26) extending from the mat portion (28). These pins (26) are intended to penetrate the uncured laminate sheet (14) during a perforation cycle that occurs prior to the cure cycle. During the cure cycle, the autoclave machine (12) applies a predetermined amount of and pressure heat to the pressure pad (22) for a predetermined amount of time so as to cause the pressure pad (22) to flow around the protruding pins (26). This feature allows the pressure pad (22) to transfer a substantial portion of the applied pressure to the uncured laminate sheet (14) so as to improve consolidation of the sheet (14). In this regard, less pressure is unintentionally transferred to the protruding pins

 

US7347835B2

Process for producing pad base for endermism, and pad base for endermism, and injection needle

Medrx Co., Ltd.

3/25/2008

The present invention provides a production process for obtaining a pad base for endermism capable of administering a drug in the skin without vibration. One side end of a thin metal wire is immersed in a solution containing a synthetic resin raw material in a lengthwise direction, the synthetic resin raw material solution adheres to a periphery of the thin metal wire, the synthetic resin raw material solution is hardened and then the thin metal wire is pulled out. The resulting minute needle is a hollow tubular body and the outer wall thereof is thickened toward the bottom. The minute needle is installed upright on the skin side of a patch base, and a drug in the hollow portion of the minute needle is injected in the skin and can be provided for endermism.

 

US7344894B2

Thermal regulation of fluidic samples within a diagnostic cartridge

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

3/18/2008

A method and miniature analytical device with thermal regulation of reactant using a localized heat source capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation, such as light emitting diodes (“LED”s) and vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (“VCSEL”s), generating internal heat, such as resistive, inductive and Peltier heaters, or external heating. The miniature analytical device comprises of array of temperature-controlled zones to restrict the volume heated and localize the heating by having the localized heat source comprise an array of emitters or heaters.

 

US7344507B2

Method and apparatus for lancet actuation

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

3/18/2008

A lancet driver is provided wherein the driver exerts a driving force on a lancet during a lancing cycle and is used on a tissue site. The driver comprises of a drive force generator for advancing the lancet and a processor coupled to the drive force generator capable of changing the direction and magnitude of force exerted on the lancet during the lancing cycle. The driver further includes a human interface on the housing providing at least one output for communicating with the patient.

 

US7344499B1

Microneedle device for extraction and sensing of bodily fluids

Georgia Tech Research Corporation

3/18/2008

Microneedle devices are provided for controlled sampling of biological fluids in a minimally-invasive, painless, and convenient manner. The microneedle devices permit in vivo sensing or withdrawal of biological fluids from the body, particularly from or through the skin or other tissue barriers, with minimal or no damage, pain, or irritation to the tissue. The microneedle device includes one or more microneedles, preferably in a three-dimensional array, a substrate to which the microneedles are connected, and at least one collection chamber and/or sensor in communication with the microneedles. Preferred embodiments further include a means for inducing biological fluid to be drawn through the microneedles and into the collection chamber for analysis. In a preferred embodiment, this induction is accomplished by use of a pressure gradient, which can be created for example by selectively increasing the interior volume of the collection chamber, which includes an elastic or movable portion engaged to a rigid base.

 

US20080063696A1

Use of penetration enhancers and barrier disruption methods to enhance the immune response of antigen and adjuvant

Government of the United States, as Represented by the Secretary of the Army

3/13/2008

A transcutaneous immunization system where the topical application of an adjuvant and an antigen or nucleic acid encoding for an antigen, to intact skin induces a systemic or mucosol antibody response. The immune response so elicited can be enhanced by physical or chemical skin penetration enhancement.

 

EP1891898A1

Lancing device

Roche Diagnostics GmbH | F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG

2/27/2008

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Stechgerдt zum Erzeugen einer Einstichwunde zum Gewinnen einer Probe einer Kцrperflьssigkeit, umfassend ein Andruckteil (4) zum Anpressen an ein Kцrperteil, in dem an einer Probenentnahmestelle eine Einstichwunde erzeugt werden soll, einen Prьfsensor (5) zum Messen eines Wertes eines Prьfparameters, der von einem Zustand des Kцrperteils an der Entnahmestelle und/oder der Position des Andruckteils (4) relativ zu der Entnahmestelle abhдngt, und eine Auswerteeinheit (10), um zu ermitteln, ob der mit dem Prьfsensor (5) gemessene Wert des Prьfparameters einer vorgegebenen Mindestanforderung, die eine erfolgreiche Probengewinnung erwarten lдsst, genьgt. ErfindungsgemдЯ ist vorgesehen, dass in einem Betriebsmodus der Wert des Prьfparameters, nachdem er die vorgegebene Mindestanforderung erreicht hat, wдhrend eines Wartezeitintervalls mittels des Prьfsensors (5) ьberwacht wird und die Auswerteeinheit (10) nach Ablauf der Wartezeit einen Einstich auslцst, wenn die wдhrend der Wartezeit ermit

 

US7335294B2

Integrated lancing and measurement device and analyte measuring methods

Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc.

2/26/2008

An integrated lancing and measurement device is provided comprising a sensor designed to determine the amount and/or concentration of analyte in a biological fluid having a volume of less than about 1 μL. A piercing member is adapted to pierce and retract from a site on the patient to cause the fluid to flow therefrom, and the sensor is positioned adjacent to the site on the patient so as to receive the fluid flowing from the site to generate an electrical signal indicative of the concentration of the analyte in the fluid. The sensor is comprised of a working electrode comprising an analyte-responsive enzyme and a redox mediator, and a counter electrode. An analyte monitor is operatively connected to the sensor and adapted to measure the signal generated by the sensor. Also provided are analyte measuring methods that optionally employ the integrated lancing and measurement device.

 

US7331931B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

2/19/2008

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes an electrically powered drive force generator. A penetrating member is operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves the member along a path out of a housing having a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. A cartridge houses the penetrating member. The cartridge has first and second seals coupled to the penetrating member to maintain a sterile environment around a portion of the penetration member prior to penetrating member actuation. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, penetrating member performance or a penetrating member setting.

 

WO2008016331A1

ULTRASONIC ENHANCED MICRONEEDLES

AGENCY FOR SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH | ILIESCU, Ciprian | CHEN, Bangtao

2/7/2008

The invention provides an injection device for injecting a substance into a subject. The device comprises an injector and an enhancer for enhancing the rate of penetration of the substance into the subject. The injector comprises a microneedle support and at least one microneedle extending from a first surface of said support. The or each microneedle has a fluid channel extending through the microneedle and through the support. The fluid channel of the or each microneedle has an inlet aperture in a second surface of the support and an outlet aperture in the microneedle.

 

WO2008015277A2

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MARKING OBJECTS

HAMMELBACHER, Stephan

2/7/2008

The invention relates to a device and a method for marking objects. The points of several pen-shaped elements are pressed into the surface of the object (10), wherein the points of these elements penetrate into the surface of the object (10). During the penetrating, and/or after the penetrating of the points into the surface of the object (10), a dye is inserted into the object (10) at selected entry sites.

 

US7322942B2

Integrated disposable for automatic or manual blood dosing

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

1/29/2008

An integrated sampling device defines a first opening and a second opening. The first opening is connected to a channel for drawing fluid automatically towards a test media upon incision by an incision portion. The second opening is positioned over the test media allowing manual sampling of fluid if the channel fails to draw a sufficient amount of fluid onto the test media.

 

WO2008010682A1

A HOLLOW TYPE MICRONEEDLE AND METHODS FOR PREPARING IT

INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION, YONSEI UNIVERSITY | JUNG, HYUNG IL | LEE, KWANG

1/24/2008

Disclosed herein are hollow microneedles and a fabrication method thereof. The microneedles are small in diameter and are long and hard enough to pass through the stratum corneum. Therefore, the hollow microneedle of the present invention can be used in blood sampling or drug injection through the skin.

 

EP1878386A1

Process to produce lancet; lancet, lancet band and device for pricking the skin

Roche Diagnostics GmbH | F.HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

1/16/2008

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Verfahren zum Herstellen einer Lanzette, bei dem ein Lanzettenkцrper einschlieЯlich einer Lanzettenspitze mittels Laserschneiden aus einem Metallband ausgeschnitten wird sowie eine auf diese Weise hergestellte Lanzette. Die Erfindung betrifft ferner ein Lanzettenvorratsband mit mehren Lanzetten, die jeweils in Kammern (12) einer Folienverpackung (11) versiegelt sind, wobei die Kammern (12) der Folienverpackung (11) ein Band bilden. Die Erfindung betrifft ferner ein Stechgerдt zum Erzeugen einer Einstichwunde mittels einer austauschbaren Lanzette (10), umfassend einen Lanzettenantrieb (21) zum Bewegen einer in das Stechgerдt (20) eingesetzten Lanzette (10) fьr einen Einstich, wobei der Lanzettenantrieb (21) fьr einen Einstich ein Drehmoment auf eine eingesetzte Lanzette (10) ьbertrдgt, so dass die eingesetzte Lanzette (10) eine Einstichbewegung in Form einer Drehbewegung ausfьhrt.

 

US7316700B2

Self optimizing lancing device with adaptation means to temporal variations in cutaneous properties

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

1/8/2008

A lancing device, an embodiment of which controls the advancement and retraction of a lancet by monitoring the position of the lancet in conjunction with a lancet controller which incorporates a feedback loop for modulating the lancet driver to follow a predetermined tissue lancing profile.

 

US7316671B2

Microprotrusion arrays and methods for using same to deliver substances into tissue

Becton, Dickinson and Company

1/8/2008

Improved microprotrusion abrasion devices having fluid retaining or directing patterns, and specific design parameters and method for delivery of substances into the skin. Various configurations of such devices are disclosed, including domed, channeled, patterned and stepped.

 

WO2007124393A3

MOLDED ARTICLES COMPRISING MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY | FERGUSON, Dennis, E.

1/3/2008

A molded article comprising at least one chain of microneedle arrays wherein adjacent arrays in the chain are interconnected by integrally formed runners. Such a molded article may further comprise two or more chains of microneedle arrays, wherein adjacent chains are interconnected to each other by integrally formed runners. Also, methods of making molded articles and positioning them for delivery to a patient.

 

US7315758B2

Transdermal delivery of therapeutic agent

Lynntech, Inc.

1/1/2008

A device for the transdermal delivery of a therapeutic agent to a biological subject that includes a first electrode comprising a first array of electrically conductive microprojections for providing electrical communication through a skin portion of the subject to a second electrode comprising a second array of electrically conductive microprojections. Additionally, a reservoir for holding the therapeutic agent surrounding the first electrode and a pulse generator for providing an exponential decay pulse between the first and second electrodes may be provided. A method includes the steps of piercing a stratum corneum layer of skin with two arrays of conductive microprojections, encapsulating the therapeutic agent into biocompatible charged carriers, surrounding the conductive microprojections with the therapeutic agent, generating an exponential decay pulse between the two arrays of conductive microprojections to create a non-uniform electrical field and electrokinetically driving the therapeutic agent throu

 

WO2006116242A3

MICRONEEDLE WITH GLUCOSE SENSOR AND METHOD THEREOF

INFOTONICS TECHNOLOGY CENTER, INC. | ZANDER, Dennis

12/21/2007

A method for making a needle for monitoring blood, a blood monitoring system and a needle array system for monitoring blood are described. Sensors are associated with each microneedle so that each microneedle can sample blood chemistry without extraction. The sensing process is achieved while the needle is inside the patient, minimizing invasiveness and contamination.

 

US7310543B2

Silicon microprobe with integrated biosensor

Kumetrix, Inc.

12/18/2007

Microprobe device 10 provides an analyte signal from biosensor 12 to an external analyte meter indicating analyte presence in an analyte-containing bodily fluid of a subject (not shown).

 

US7309607B2

Method and device for monitoring platelet function

PlaCor Inc.

12/18/2007

The invention provides a method of monitoring platelet function in a mammal by passing blood removed from the body of the mammal through a passageway to contact an obstruction or irregularity in the passageway to generate a platelet mass in the passageway, and monitoring the flow or composition of the blood in the passageway to detect the platelet mass. The flow and composition change in response to the formation of a platelet mass in the passageway. Devices, articles, and kits for performing the methods are also disclosed.

 

EP1471953A4

GAS PRESSURE ACTUATED MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS, AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO SAME

12/12/2007

 

US7305896B2

Capillary fill test device

Inverness Medical Switzerland GmbH

12/11/2007

A device for receiving a sample of liquid, such as a sample of bodily liquid which is to be subjected to further analysis, may include a body having at least a major surface and a minor surface. A sample-receiving chamber may be located in the body and may have an inlet end which opens into the major and minor surfaces of the body. A conduit may be located in the body, extending from the outlet end of the chamber, and may be arranged so as to allow the liquid to pass from the outlet end into the conduit by capillary action.

 

WO2007035710A3

ELECTROKINETIC DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHODS THEREFOR

TRANSPORT PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. | ETHEREDGE, Robert, W. | GOLDBERG, Dennis, I. | FRIDEN, Phillip, M. | PETERSON, John, S.

12/6/2007

The electrokinetic medicament delivery system includes at least one applicator having a multiplicity of non-conductive micro-needles carried on a non-conductive surface of the applicator. The opposite surface is formed of electrically conductive material for contact with an active electrode. The applicator includes a matrix containing a medicament or a carrier therefor between the opposite surfaces. When the applicator is applied to the individual's skin with the micro-needles penetrating the skin, an electrical current is completed through the power source, the active electrode, medicament, or electrically conductive carrier therefor, the targeted treatment site, the individual's body, a ground electrode and the power supply, thereby electrokinetically driving the medicament through the non-conductive micro-needles into the targeted treatment site.

 

US7297151B2

Method and apparatus for body fluid sampling with improved sensing

Elikan Technologies, Inc.

11/20/2007

A device is provided for use with a body fluid sampling device for extracting bodily fluid from an anatomical feature. The device comprises a cartridge having a plurality of cavities. The device may include a plurality of penetrating members each at least partially contained in the cavities of the cartridge wherein the penetrating members are slidably movable to extend outward from openings on the cartridge to penetrate tissue. The device may also include a plurality of analyte detecting members and a plurality of chambers. Each chamber may be associated with one of the cavities, the chambers positioned along an outer periphery of the cartridge, wherein at least one of said analyte detecting members forms a portion of one wall of one of said plurality of chambers. In one embodiment, the device may also include a fluid spreader positioned over at least a portion of said analyte detecting member to urge fluid toward one of the detecting members.

 

US7297122B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

PeliKan Technologies, Inc.

11/20/2007

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a single drive force generator. A plurality of penetrating members are operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves each of the members along a path out of a housing with a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. A flexible support member couples the penetrating members to define a linear array. The support member is movable and configured to move each of the penetrating members to a launch position associated with the force generator. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, penetrating member performance or a penetrating member setting.

 

US7291497B2

Medical device for analyte monitoring and drug delivery

Theranos, Inc.

11/6/2007

The invention relates to an ingestible, implantable or wearable medical device comprising a microarray which comprises a bioactive agent capable of interacting with a disease marker biological analyte; a reservoir which comprises at least one therapeutic agent and is capable of releasing the therapeutic agent(s) from the medical device; and a plurality of microchips comprising a microarray scanning device capable of obtaining physical parameter data of an interaction between the disease marker biological analyte with the bioactive agent; a biometric recognition device capable of comparing the physical parameter data with an analyte interaction profile; optionally a therapeutic agent releasing device capable of controlling release of the therapeutic agent from the reservoirs; an interface device capable of facilitating communications between the microarray scanning device, biometric recognition device and the therapeutic agent releasing device; and an energy source to power the medical device. Specifically, th

 

US7291117B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

11/6/2007

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a voice coil based penetrating member driver. A plurality of penetrating members are included. A transport mechanism is configured to engage the cartridges. Each of the cartridges is operatively engaged with the penetrating member driver when moved into position by the transport mechanism.

 

WO2007124393A2

MOLDED ARTICLES COMPRISING MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY | FERGUSON, Dennis, E.

11/1/2007

A molded article comprising at least one chain of microneedle arrays wherein adjacent arrays in the chain are interconnected by integrally formed runners. Such a molded article may further comprise two or more chains of microneedle arrays, wherein adjacent chains are interconnected to each other by integrally formed runners. Also, methods of making molded articles and positioning them for delivery to a patient.

 

WO2007123243A1

BIO SENSOR CHIP

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY | SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD. | FUJIMURA, Tsuyoshi | ISHIKAWA, Tomoko | NAKAMURA, Hideaki | GOTOH, Masao | KARUBE, Isao | HARADA, Akira | KAIMORI, Shingo | KITAMURA, Takahiko | HOSOYA, Toshifumi

11/1/2007

A bio sensor chip where the amount of a sample to be collected and required for measurement is decreased to reduce the labor of the user and where a sample at a puncture opening is easily collected and measured. The bio sensor chip has a chip body (11) and a slider (20). The chip body (11) has at its forward end (11a) a sample collection opening (12a) for collecting a sample (B), and the slider (20) has a piercing instrument (21) at its forward end (20a) and is slidable along the chip body (11) toward its forward end. That is, since the slider (20) having the piercing instrument (21) at the forward end (20a) is slid along the chip body (11) of the bio sensor chip (10), toward its forward end where the sample collection opening (12a) is provided, the piercing instrument (21) can be easily inserted into a subject, and in addition, the sample, such as blood (B), flowing out of the puncture opening can be reliably collected from the sample collection opening (12a). Also, the bio sensor chip does not erroneously h

 

WO2007123135A1

BIO SENSOR SYSTEM

SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD. | NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY | FUJIMURA, Tsuyoshi | NAKAMURA, Hideaki | KARUBE, Isao | ISHIKAWA, Tomoko | GOTOH, Masao | KITAMURA, Takahiko | KAIMORI, Shingo | HARADA, Akira | HOSOYA, Toshifumi

11/1/2007

A bio sensor system that, when a puncture instrument and/or a bio sensor chip are driven at the same time to perform puncturing and sample collection, the bio sensor chip and a measurement device can be electrically conducted with each other by a simple structure. The bio sensor chip (20) is inserted in a terminal insertion section (32) of a drive section (31) and fixed in position. In the above, the bio sensor chip (20) is electrically connected to the measurement device (30) because the terminal insertion section (32) is electrically connected to the measurement device (30) by a conduction mechanism (12). Accordingly, puncturing and samplecollection are performed by driving both the puncture instrument (11) and the bio sensor chip (20) by a drive section (31), and information on the collected sample is transmitted from the bio sensor chip (20) to the measurement device (30) by the conduction mechanism (12). As a result, measurement can be made in a short time and simply, reducing a burden on the user.

 

WO2006116605A3

METHOD FOR FORMING HOLLOW OUT-OF-PLANE MICRONEEDLES AND DEVICES FORMED THEREBY

THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA | STOEBER, Boris | LIEPMANN, Dorian | PISANO, Albert | ZIMMERMANN, Stefan

11/1/2007

A method and apparatus for forming microneedles and other microstructures using hardenable materials and useful for substance monitoring and/or drug delivery.

 

US7288073B2

System for withdrawing small amounts of body fluid

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

10/30/2007

The present invention generally relates to a system for withdrawing small amounts if body fluid from an animal or human. The system comprises a holder and a disposable lancing unit attached to the holder. The lancing unit also comprises an open capillary channel for transporting the body fluid and piercing the skin.

 

US7286864B1

Dry physiological recording device

Orbital Research, Inc.

10/23/2007

The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

 

US7285113B2

Systems and methods for the transport of fluids through a biological barrier and production techniques for such systems

NanoPass Technologies Ltd.

10/23/2007

A device for the transport of fluids through a biological barrier includes a number of microneedles projecting from the front face of a substrate. A conduit is associated with each of the microneedles to provide a fluid flow path for transport of fluid through a hole in the biological barrier formed by the corresponding microneedle. Each of the microneedles is configured to provide a penetrating tip, and each conduit terminates at an opening which is proximal with respect to the microneedle tip. Also described are microneedle-based devices with integrated MEMS pumping configurations for withdrawal and/or delivery of fluids, and remote healthcare systems based on such devices.

 

US20070235408A1

Method of making tapered capillary tips with constant inner diameters

Battelle Memorial Institute

10/11/2007

Methods of forming electrospray ionization emitter tips are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an end portion of a capillary tube can be immersed into an etchant, wherein the etchant forms a concave meniscus on the outer surface of the capillary. Variable etching rates in the meniscus can cause an external taper to form. While etching the outer surface of the capillary wall, a fluid can be flowed through the interior of the capillary tube. Etching continues until the immersed portion of the capillary tube is completely etched away.

 

US7273474B2

Flexible substrate structure for microneedle arrays and its manufacturing method

Industrial Technology Research Institute

9/25/2007

The present invention is related to a flexible substrate structure for microneedle arrays and its manufacturing method, whose structure mainly comprising: tapered shape objects and flexible substrate. Wherein, structure of the tapered shape object is composed of a tip, sidewalls, and a base. Meanwhile, the flexible substrate winds tightly around sidewalls of tapered shape objects and is set up on, yet covers the base surface of tapered shape object which faces the tip of tapered shape object. Because the structure applies a flexible substrate along with tapered shape objects, hence, the fit-to-body capability is increased and allows thereof more appropriate for backside drug delivery, as well as sufficiently bring the characteristic of large-area manufacturing into full play.

 

EP1675539A4

PRETREATMENT METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ENHANCING TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY

9/12/2007

 

DE102004010529B4

Analysehandgerдt

Roche Diagnostics GmbH

9/6/2007

Analysehandgerдt zum Untersuchen einer Probe, insbesondere einer biologischen Flьssigkeit, auf einen medizinisch bedeutsamen Bestandteil, umfassend einen Analysesensor (15), dem auf einem Fцrderweg ein analytisches Verbrauchsmittel zufьhrbar ist, eine Anzeigeeinrichtung (3), ein Gehдuse (4), das eine Gehдuseцffnung (10) fьr ein analytisches Verbrauchsmittel (9) aufweist, an die der Fцrderweg anschlieЯt, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daЯ es eine antreibbare Fцrderwalze (16, 18) hat, mit der ein in den Fцrderweg ragendes Verbrauchsmittel (9) gegriffen und entlang des Fцrderwegs bewegt werden kann.

 

US7262068B2

Microneedle array module and method of fabricating the same

The Cleveland Clinic Foundation

8/28/2007

A microneedle array module is disclosed comprising a multiplicity of microneedles affixed to and protruding outwardly from a front surface of a substrate to form the array, each microneedle of the array having a hollow section which extends through its center to an opening in the tip thereof. A method of fabricating the microneedle array module is also disclosed comprising the steps of: providing etch resistant mask layers to one and another opposite surfaces of a substrate to predetermined thicknesses; patterning the etch resistant mask layer of the one surface for outer dimensions of the microneedles of the array; patterning the etch resistant mask layer of the other surface for inner dimensions of the microneedles of the array; etching unmasked portions of the substrate from one and the other surfaces to first and second predetermined depths, respectively; and removing the mask layers from the one and the other surfaces. One embodiment of the method includes the steps of: providing an etch resistant mask l

 

EP1820441A1

Microneedle arrays with attenuated total reflection (ATR) sensor

Roche Diagnostics GmbH | F.HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

8/22/2007

Es wird ein Sensor zur optischen Bestimmung der Konzentration eines Analyten in einer Kцrperflьssigkeit beschrieben. Dieser Sensor beinhaltet eine Nadelanordnung, die mindestens eine Hohlnadel, mit einem sich von dem distalen Ende zum proximalen Ende erstreckenden Hohlraum, aufweist, deren distales Ende zum Stechen geeignet ist. Das proximale Ende der Nadel mьndet in eine Kammer, in der Flьssigkeit gesammelt werden kann, die durch das distale Nadelende eintritt. Ein Fenster das fьr Infrarotstrahlung zumindest zum Teil durchlдssig ist, tritt in direkten Kontakt mit der Kammer.

 

US7258805B2

Micro needles and method of manufacture thereof

8/21/2007

A micro-needle protrudes from a support member. The needle has a needle body portion, a closed pointed tip portion, and an inner lumen extending through the support member and into the protruding needle. The needle body portion has at least one side opening communicating with the inner lumen. The method of making the needle comprises providing a mask on the front side of an etchable wafer such that the vertical projection of the mask at least partially covers the extension of a hole made in the back side. The mask is isotropically underetched to remove wafer material. An anisotropic etch forms a protruding structure. Optionally a second isotropic etch on the protruding structure exposes the blind hole. Optionally a final anisotropic etch extends the needle without forming side openings.

 

US7258693B2

Device and method for variable speed lancet

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

8/21/2007

A method of penetrating tissue is provided. The method comprises using a lancet driver to advance a lancet into the tissue; advancing the lancet at a first desired velocity in a first layer of tissue; advancing the lancet at a second desired velocity in a second layer of tissue; and advancing the lancet at a third desired velocity in a third layer of tissue. In one embodiment, the method may including using a processor having logic for controlling velocity of the lancet in each layer of tissue.

 

US7244739B2

Compounds and uses thereof in modulating amyloid beta

Torreypines Therapeutics, Inc.

7/17/2007

Novel compounds, compositions, and kits are provided. Methods of modulating Aβ levels, and methods of treating a disease associated with aberrant Aβ levels are also provided.

 

US7244265B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

7/17/2007

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a drive force generator and a penetrating member operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves the member along a path out of a housing with a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. The drive force generator is configured to be controlled to follow a predetermined velocity trajectory into the tissue and out of the tissue. A tissue stabilizing member is associated with the device and at least partially surrounds an impact location of the penetrating member on the tissue site. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, penetrating member performance or a penetrating member setting.

 

US7244264B2

Dual blade lancing test strip

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

7/17/2007

An integrated lancing test strip includes a pair of blade members that each have a lancing tip that are configured to lance skin. A pair of spacer members connect the blade members together such that the blade members define an internal capillary. A test strip is positioned along the internal capillary, and the test strip is configured to test analyte levels in the bodily fluid. During use, the lancing tips form one or more incisions in the skin. The fluid from the incisions is drawn via capillary action through the internal capillary and onto the test strip.

 

WO2007033079A3

METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A DIAGNOSTIC TEST STRIP

HOME DIAGNOSTICS, INC. | WEGNER, Greta | POPOVICH, Natasha | SLOMSKI, Dennis

7/12/2007

A method for manufacturing a test strip is provided. The method comprises selecting a test strip substrate material and positioning the test strip substrate material a predetermined distance from a matrix material disposed on a second substrate, wherein at least one enzyme to be deposited on the test strip substrate and having glucose as an enzymatic substrate is held within the matrix material. A laser pulse is directed towards the matrix material to release at least a portion of the at least one enzyme having glucose as an enzymatic substrate from the matrix material and deposit the enzyme on the test strip substrate.

 

US7241394B2

Process of fabricating polymer sustained microelectrodes

Lumera Corporation

7/10/2007

A process for fabricating a microelectrode is described that includes: a) providing a substrate comprising at least one polymer micro-ridge, where the polymer micro-ridge comprises an upper surface and two walls, and the two walls form an angle with a lower surface; b) depositing a metal thin film on the upper surface, the two walls, and the lower surface; and c) etching a predetermined amount of the deposited metal thin film on the lower surface to form the microelectrode.

 

WO2007075614A1

MICRONEEDLE DEVICES

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY | PEKUROVSKY, Mikhail L., | JOHNSON, Mitchell A. F.,

7/5/2007

Microneedles and microarrays comprising such microneedles are described. The microneedles comprise: a base; a shaft portion extending from the base to a second end distal from the base; a microblade structure extending from the second end; capillary spaces associated with the microblade structure; and a coating in the capillary spaces, the coating comprising an active component. The invention also provides a method for delivering an active component through mammalian skin, comprising: applying the medical device to mammalian skin so that the at least one microneedle is inserted through the stratum corneum and the active component is exposed to interstitial fluids; and allowing the at least one microneedle to remain inserted through the stratum corneum for a sufficient amount of time to dissolve the active component. In another aspect, the invention provides a method for applying an active component to a microneedle, comprising: providing a microneedle, comprising: a base, a shaft portion extending from the ba

 

EP1796778A1

MOLDED MICRO-NEEDLES

Bonsens AB

6/20/2007

The method relates generally to making hollow micro-projections having side walls and at least one opening in a side wall, by a molding technique. The hollow micro-projections are defined by a first, negative mold defining the exterior shape of said micro-projections and a second, positive mold defining the hollow interior shape of said micro-projections. The method comprises injecting a moldable material into the space between the two molds, in a state where they have been brought together. The positive and negative molds each have an essentially cylindrical geometry. In the process of bringing the molds together, the mold halves are laterally off-set with respect to each other, such that the distance between an inner wall of the negative mold and the positive mold in said area, ranges from zero to a finite distance. Micro-projections and arrays of micro-projections are also provided by the invention.

 

US7232451B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

6/19/2007

A skin penetrating system has a housing member and a plurality of penetrating members positioned in the housing member. A tissue stabilizing device is coupled to the housing member. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, skin penetrating performance or a skin penetrating setting.

 

US7229458B2

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

6/12/2007

A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of cartridges each with a distal port and a proximal port. A plurality of penetrating members are provided, each coupled to a cartridge and having a sharpened distal tip and a shaft portion slidably disposed within the cartridge. A seal is formed by a fracturable material between the penetrating member and the cartridge. The seal is positioned at one or both of a distal port or a proximal port of the cartridge.

 

WO2007063948A1

SENSOR/LANCET INTEGRATED DEVICE AND METHOD OF COLLECTING BODY FLUID USING THE SAME

ARKRAY, Inc. | DOI, Shigeru

6/7/2007

A sensor/lancet integrated device (1) provided with a lancet having a needle part (14) for puncturing the skin and a sensor having a reagent part (17). The lancet is integrally molded with the needle part (14). It is preferable that the device (1) further has a capillary (15) for supplying into the reagent part (17). The needle part (14) has, for example, a hollow form the inner space of which is connected with an inlet port. The needle part (14) may project from a position different from the inlet port.

 

US7226461B2

Method and apparatus for a multi-use body fluid sampling device with sterility barrier release

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

6/5/2007

A device for use with a gripper is provided. A cartridge is provided that defines a plurality of cavities. A plurality of penetrating members are at least partially contained in the cavities of the cartridge. The penetrating members are slidably movable to extend outward from the cartridge to penetrate tissue. Each cavity has a longitudinal opening that provides access to an elongate portion of the penetrating member. A sterility barrier is coupled to the cartridge. The sterility barrier covers a plurality of the longitudinal openings. The sterility barrier is configured to be moved so that the elongate portion is accessed by the gripper without touching the barrier.

 

US7226439B2

Microneedle drug delivery device

Georgia Tech Research Corporation

6/5/2007

Simple microneedle devices for delivery of drugs across or into biological tissue are provided, which permit drug delivery at clinically relevant rates across or into skin or other tissue barriers, with minimal or no damage, pain, or irritation to the tissue. The devices include a substrate to which a plurality of hollow microneedles are attached or integrated, and at least one reservoir, containing the drug, selectably in communication with the microneedles, wherein the volume or amount of drug to be delivered can be selectively altered. The reservoir can be formed of a deformable, preferably elastic, material. The device typically includes a means, such as a plunger, for compressing the reservoir to drive the drug from the reservoir through the microneedles. In one embodiment, the reservoir is a syringe or pump connected to the substrate.

 

US7223248B2

Packaged medical device with a deployable dermal tissue penetration member

LifeScan, Inc.

5/29/2007

A packaged medical device includes upper and lower flexible sheets, a lance body and a test strip. The lance body includes upper and lower surfaces, an opening that extends between the upper and lower surfaces and a dermal tissue penetration member that projects into the lance body opening. The test strip has an opening therethrough and is attached to the lance body lower surface such that the dermal tissue penetration member is operatively aligned with the test strip opening. The upper flexible sheet is attached to the lance body upper surface and covers the lance body opening, while the lower flexible sheet is detachably attached to the test strip and covers the test strip opening. The upper flexible sheet, lance body and test strip are configured such that, when the lower flexible sheet has been detached to uncover the test strip opening, the upper flexible sheet, lance body and test strip can be bent to deploy the dermal tissue penetration member from the lance body opening. A kit includes the packaged me

 

WO2005113374A3

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IN-VIVO SAMPLING

GIVEN IMAGING LTD. | IDDAN, Gavriel | RABINOVITZ, Elisha

5/24/2007

A device, system and method for in-vivo sampling. An in-vivo device and method for use thereof may include a sampling chamber and a gating mechanism. The sampling chamber may store a sample of a body lumen substance, and the gate may close and open an opening of the sampling chamber.

 

EP1787584A1

Cap with revolving body for dermal tissue lancing device

LifeScan, Inc.

5/23/2007

A cap for a dermal tissue lancing device includes a retainer and a ring-shaped cap body. The retainer has a proximal end configured for engagement with the dermal tissue lancing device, a distal end with a cap body engagement feature and an opening. The ring-shaped cap body has a distal compression surface, borders the opening and is securely and revolvingly engaged with the cap body engagement feature. When a force is exerted on the distal compression surface during use of the cap, the ring-shaped cap body revolves (e.g., inward with respect to the opening) while remaining securely engaged with the retainer.

 

US7214200B2

Integrated analytical test element

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

5/8/2007

A lancet integrated test element (LIT) includes an incision forming member that has a cutting end configured to form an incision in tissue. A test element is attached to the incision forming member to test fluid from the incision. The test element has a sampling end with a sample opening through which the fluid is collected. The test element is bendable from a first state where the cutting end of the incision forming member is retracted from the sampling end of the test element to a second state where at least a portion of the cutting extends past the sampling end of the test element to form the incision in the tissue.

 

US20070098773A1

Needleless microprotrusion elastoplast system

5/3/2007

A needleless microprotrusion system for infusion of a medicament into a patient includes a plurality of microprotrusions having a length sufficient to penetrate a stratum corneum of the patient. A chemodenervating agent is disposed for delivery by the microprotrusions and a substrate is provided for supporting the microprotrusions and conforming the microprotrusions to a patient's palm in order to enable uniform penetration of the microprotrusions into the corneum.

 

US7211209B2

Method of making device for arraying biomolecules and for monitoring cell motility in real-time

Surface Logix, Inc.

5/1/2007

The invention relates to devices, devices for arraying biomolecules, including cells, methods for arraying biomolecules, assays for monitoring cellular movement, and systems for monitoring cellular movement. The devices include a support; a first layer configured to be placed in fluid-tight contact with the support, the first layer having an upper surface and defining a pattern of micro-orifices, each micro-orifice of the pattern of micro-orifices having walls and defining a micro-region on the support when the first layer is placed in fluid-tight contact with the support such that the walls of said each micro-orifice and the micro-region on the support together define a micro-well; and a second layer configured to be placed in fluid-tight contact with the upper surface of the first layer, the second layer defining a pattern of macro-orifices, each macro-orifice of the pattern of macro-orifices having walls and defining a macro-region when the first layer is placed in fluid-tight contact with the support and

 

US7211062B2

Solid solution perforator for drug delivery and other applications

TheraJect, Inc.

5/1/2007

A solid drug perforator (SSP) system and an associated drug reservoir are provided for delivering theraputic, prophylactic and/or cosmetic compounds, for nutrient delivery and for drug targeting. For drug delivery, the SSP system includes an active drug ingredient and a matrix of perforator material that biodegrades or dissolves quickly upon contact with a patient's body. The SSP system provides a skin barrier perforator and a controller for prompt initiation and cut-off of drug delivery. In a preferred method of transdermal drug delivery, an SSP system containing a selected drug penetrates into an epidermis or dermis, and the drug is promptly released from the (dissolving) SSP system perforator. An additional drug is optionally delivered from a patch reservoir through skin pores created by insertion of the perforator. Formulation and fabrication procedures for the SSP and associated reservoir are also provided. An SSP system can be fabricated with variety of shapes and dimensions.

 

US7207952B2

Body fluid composition measuring apparatus

Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha

4/24/2007

A body fluid component measuring apparatus capable of accurately measuring a specific component in a body fluid for a short time includes, in a main body, a measuring device for detecting the sampling of a body fluid and measuring a component of the sampled body fluid, and a pump and an electromagnetic valve which constitute an evacuating mechanism. When the sampling of blood is detected, the pump is stopped to release the evacuation state. Another apparatus according to a second aspect includes a pressure detecting means and a notifying device. A puncturing device is operated only when it is decided on the basis of a result of detection by a sensor, that the housing is in an evacuation state, and after the sampling is detected, the evacuation is released and information is notified. A further apparatus according to a third aspect includes a pressure adjusting means for fluctuating the pressure.

 

Pore-size dependence of AAO films on surface roughness of Al-1050 sheets controlled by electropolishing coupled with fractional factorial design.      Yu, Chen-Un; Hu, Chi-Chang; Bai, Allen; Yang, Yong-Feng.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  National Chung Cheng University,  Chia-YiTaiwan.    Surface and Coatings Technology  (2007),  201(16-17),  7259-7265.  Publisher: Elsevier B.V.,  CODEN: SCTEEJ  ISSN: 0257-8972.  Journal  written in English.    AN 2007:425322    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract

The influences of electropolishing variables, such as agitation rate, soln. temp., applied potential, electropolishing time, and the vol. percentage of perchloric acid in ethanol-perchloric acid solns., on the surface roughness of the industrially pure aluminum sheets (Al-1050, 99.5%) are systematically investigated using fractional factorial design (FFD).  The soln. temp., applied potential, and electropolishing time are found to be the key factors affecting the surface roughness of Al-1050 sheets meanwhile the vol. percentage of perchloric acid (or ethanol) exhibits complicated interaction effects with these key factors.  The av. surface roughness of aluminum sheets ranging from 3 to 30 nm (over a 5 5 m scan area) can be controlled and predicted by varying the applied potential and polishing time when electropolishing is performed at 4 C (i.e., the low level of soln. temp.).  Highly uniform, self-ordered anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) can be effectively formed from these polished sheets via an anodizing program in an aq. soln. mainly consisting of sulfuric and oxalic acids.  The pore size of AAO is gradually decreased from ca. 90 to 60 nm when the surface roughness of Al sheets is increased from 3 to 30 nm.

 

Pore-size dependence of AAO films on surface roughness of Al-1050 sheets controlled by electropolishing coupled with fractional factorial design.      Yu, Chen-Un; Hu, Chi-Chang; Bai, Allen; Yang, Yong-Feng.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  National Chung Cheng University,  Chia-Yi,  Taiwan.    Surface and Coatings Technology  (2007),  201(16-17),  7259-7265.  Publisher: Elsevier B.V.,  CODEN: SCTEEJ  ISSN: 0257-8972.  Journal  written in English.    AN 2007:425322    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:

The influences of electropolishing variables, such as agitation rate, soln. temp., applied potential, electropolishing time, and the vol. percentage of perchloric acid in ethanol-perchloric acid solns., on the surface roughness of the industrially pure aluminum sheets (Al-1050, 99.5%) are systematically investigated using fractional factorial design (FFD).  The soln. temp., applied potential, and electropolishing time are found to be the key factors affecting the surface roughness of Al-1050 sheets meanwhile the vol. percentage of perchloric acid (or ethanol) exhibits complicated interaction effects with these key factors.  The av. surface roughness of aluminum sheets ranging from 3 to 30 nm (over a 5 5 m scan area) can be controlled and predicted by varying the applied potential and polishing time when electropolishing is performed at 4 C (i.e., the low level of soln. temp.).  Highly uniform, self-ordered anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) can be effectively formed from these polished sheets via an anodizing program in an aq. soln. mainly consisting of sulfuric and oxalic acids.  The pore size of AAO is gradually decreased from ca. 90 to 60 nm when the surface roughness of Al sheets is increased from 3 to 30 nm.

 

WO2007040938A1

FUNCTIONALIZED MICRONEEDLES TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS

TRANSCUTANEOUS TECHNOLOGIES INC.

4/12/2007

Systems, devices, and methods for transdermal delivery of one or more therapeutic active agents to a biological interface. A transdermal drug delivery system is operable for delivering of one or more therapeutic active agents to a biological interface. The system includes an active electrode assembly, a counter electrode assembly, and a plurality of functionalized microneedles.

 

EP1566146B1

Devices for extracting bodily fluids

LifeScan, Inc.

4/4/2007

A bodily fluid extraction device includes a penetration member configured for penetrating a target site and subsequently residing within the target site and extracting a bodily fluid sample. The penetration member includes a proximal end adapted for fluid communication with an analyte analysis system, a distal end, and a channel extending from the distal to the proximal end. The distal end includes a sharp portion for penetrating a target site, and a flexible feature adapted for promoting bodily fluid flow into the channel by protruding into the target site after the penetration member has penetrated the target site. A method for extracting bodily fluid includes providing a bodily fluid extraction device as described immediately above. Subsequently, a target site is penetrated with the distal end of the bodily fluid extraction device's penetration member and the flexible portion of the penetration member is caused to protrude into the target site and promote bodily fluid flow into the penetration member's cha

 

US7198606B2

Method and apparatus for a multi-use body fluid sampling device with analyte sensing

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

4/3/2007

A device for use with a penetrating member driver to penetrate tissue is provided. A plurality of penetrating members are coupled to a single cartridge and are operatively couplable to the penetrating member driver. The penetrating members are movable to extend radially outward from the cartridge to penetrate tissue. A plurality of analyte sensors are coupled to the single cartridge and are positioned on the cartridge to receive body fluid from a wound in the tissue created by the penetrating member.

 

WO2007035710A2

ELECTROKINETIC DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHODS THEREFOR

TRANSPORT PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.

3/29/2007

The electrokinetic medicament delivery system includes at least one applicator having a multiplicity of non-conductive micro-needles carried on a non-conductive surface of the applicator. The opposite surface is formed of electrically conductive material for contact with an active electrode. The applicator includes a matrix containing a medicament or a carrier therefor between the opposite surfaces. When the applicator is applied to the individual's skin with the micro-needles penetrating the skin, an electrical current is completed through the power source, the active electrode, medicament, or electrically conductive carrier therefor, the targeted treatment site, the individual's body, a ground electrode and the power supply, thereby electrokinetically driving the medicament through the non-conductive micro-needles into the targeted treatment site.

 

WO2007033079A2

METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A DIAGNOSTIC TEST STRIP

HOME DIAGNOSTICS, INC.

3/22/2007

A method for manufacturing a test strip is provided. The method comprises selecting a test strip substrate material and positioning the test strip substrate material a predetermined distance from a matrix material disposed on a second substrate, wherein at least one enzyme to be deposited on the test strip substrate and having glucose as an enzymatic substrate is held within the matrix material. A laser pulse is directed towards the matrix material to release at least a portion of the at least one enzyme having glucose as an enzymatic substrate from the matrix material and deposit the enzyme on the test strip substrate.

 

WO2007025713A1

ASSEMBLY FOR RECEIVING BODY FLUIDS, AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF

F. HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG | ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH

3/8/2007

Disclosed is an assembly for receiving body fluids, comprising a sample taking element (10) that is provided with an area (12) for collecting body fluid obtained with the aid of a puncture. The collecting area is formed by a longitudinal slot (12) which is elongate as a capillary tube and is open on both sides via lateral holes (28,30) on the sample taking element (10).

 

EP1759633A1

Device for sampling bodily fluids and its fabrication method

F.HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG | Roche Diagnostics GmbH

3/7/2007

Body fluids e.g. blood, collecting arrangement, has collecting area formed by both-sided opened, capillary longitudinal slot in sampling unit, where slot includes distal receiving section and proximal venting section The arrangement has a sampling unit (10) provided with a piercing unit to pierce a body part (14). The sampling unit includes a collecting area for collecting body fluids received by piercing the body part. The collecting area is formed by a both-sided opened, capillary longitudinal slot (12) in the sampling unit. The slot has a distal receiving section (32) that extends into the skin of the body part, and a proximal venting section (34) provided outside the skin, while collecting the fluid. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a potable blood analysis device with an arrangement for collecting body fluids (2) a method for manufacturing a sampling unit for sampling body fluids.

 

US7186235B2

Device for manipulating a needle or abrader array and method of use

Becton, Dickinson and Company

3/6/2007

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for intradermally administering a pharmaceutical composition or other substance into and through the skin of a mammalian body in a manner that avoids or eliminates excess pain and discomfort normally caused as a result of the microabraders or microneedles entering the epithelial layers beneath the stratum corneum. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus is a microdevice with an array of microabraders or microneedles with a manipulating member.

 

Fabrication and morphological stability of aluminum nanostructures en route to nanopatterned sapphire.      Biser, Jeffrey M.; Perkins, Jason T.; Li, Hongwei; Chan, Helen M.; Vinci, Richard P.    Center for Optical Technologies and Center for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology,  Lehigh University,  Bethlehem,  PA,  USA.    Advances in Science and Technology (Stafa-Zuerich, Switzerland)  (2006),  45(11th International Ceramics Congress, 2006),  945-950.  Publisher: Trans Tech Publications Ltd.,  CODEN: ASETE5  Journal  written in English.    AN 2007:364091    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  It has recently been demonstrated that it is possible to produce a pristine surface layer on a lapped sapphire substrate by depositing a thin film of aluminum and subjecting it to an appropriate thermal treatment.  This process also shows promise for the fabrication of nanopatterned sapphire by pre-patterning the aluminum metal prior to thermal conversion to sapphire.  We have explored two distinct patterning processes: a dual layer photoresist e-beam lithog. technique for fabricating arbitrarily shaped aluminum structures, and a novel, non-conventional mask-liftoff method involving nanoporous anodized aluminum oxide, useful for patterning very large scale arrays of sub-micron aluminum dots or posts.  Our work is focused on refining the fabrication process and investigating the morphol. stability of such metal nanostructures during conversion to sapphire.

 

The effect of stationary ultraviolet excitation on the optical properties of electrochemically self-assembled semiconductor nanowires.      Katkar, Rajesh A.; Tait, Gregory B.    Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering,  Virginia Commonwealth University,  Richmond,  VA,  USA.    Journal of Applied Physics  (2007),  101(5),  053508/1-053508/7.  Publisher: American Institute of Physics,  CODEN: JAPIAU  ISSN: 0021-8979.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:489589    AN 2007:342746    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The optical behavior of electrochem. self-assembled nanowire arrays excited by stationary UV light is studied.  The wires are fabricated by electrodepositing CdS, ZnO, and ZnSe in anodic porous alumina templates with 50, 25, and 10 nm diam. pores.  The authors have developed a theor. model to calc. nanowire permittivity, refractive index, and absorption coeff. under such stationary excitation.  This model is incorporated in an electromagnetic wave simulation to obtain the optical response of the array of wires.  The behavior is also studied exptl. using a pump-probe excitation scheme in an optical interferometer.  The authors report a strong nonmonotonic optical activity as a function of wire diam. in the nanowire arrays.  This result implies a sharp increase in the optically pumped change in refractive index and permittivity in narrower nanowires.

 

Synthesis and Characterization of Nonlinear Nanopores in Alumina Films.      Zakeri, Rashid; Watts, Clay; Wang, Haibo; Kohli, Punit.    Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Physics, and Electrical Engineering,  Southern Illinois University,  Carbondale,  IL,  USA.    Chemistry of Materials  (2007),  19(8),  1954-1963.  Publisher: American Chemical Society,  CODEN: CMATEX  ISSN: 0897-4756.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:505631    AN 2007:334543    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Controlled and convenient synthetic approaches for more complex-shaped nanotubes and nanowires of different materials are needed to further advance the field of nanoscience and nanotechnol.  In this paper, we report the synthesis and characterization of nonlinear nanopores (such as curved and dendritic nanopores) contg. alumina films.  We show that control over the orientation of nanopores can be accomplished by controlling the geometric shape of aluminum substrates on which nanoporous alumina is grown.  The anodically grown alumina on square and rectangular aluminum substrates showed cracks at the sharp edges of the substrates but no cracks were obsd. in nanoporous alumina films grown on cylindrical substrates.  Our electrostatic calcns. suggest that the elec. field intensity at sharp edges of the rectangular/square substrates is significantly larger than that at the flat faces of the substrates.  This leads to a faster alumina growth rate and hence increased stresses at these edges.  We also propose a simple model that predicts the shape and orientation of nonlinear nanopores grown on different geometric shaped substrates.  Through the use of proposed nanoporous films as template, one can easily synthesize highly complex-shaped nanotubes and nanowires of different materials.

 

Nanoscale surface features formed on aluminum by dissolution processes.      Houser, Jerrod; Hebert, Kurt R.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  Iowa State University,  Ames,  IA,  USA.    Proceedings - Electrochemical Society  (2006),  2004-19(Pits and Pores III: Formation, Properties, and Significance for Advanced Materials),  23-33.  Publisher: Electrochemical Society,  CODEN: PESODO  ISSN: 0161-6374.  Journal  written in English.    AN 2007:288435    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Submicron-scale cellular surface patterns are common to several aluminum dissoln. processes.  The cells, which together form a mosaic covering the surface, consist of scalloped depressions bordered by ridges.  The goal of this work was to understand the mechanism of pattern formation.  A math. model was developed for steady-state dissoln. based on descriptions of ionic conduction in the oxide film and the kinetics of ion transfer processes at the film-soln. interface.  The model geometry represents the oxide film on an individual cell.  The model results were used to search parameter space for regions consistent with stable patterns.  The present modeling results suggested a wider range of stable cell sizes for given dissoln. conditions, than that indicated by exptl. patterns.  Also, it is shown that there must be an inhibition mechanism which suppresses rapid field-enhanced interface motion on nanoscale ridges.

 

Highly ordered nanoscale patterns on anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) surface.      Sun, Z. H.; Xu, C. L.; Zhang, H. L.    State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering,  Lanzhou University,  Lanzhou,  Peop. Rep. China.    Diffusion and Defect Data--Solid State Data, Pt. B: Solid State Phenomena  (2007),  121-123(Pt. 1, Nanoscience and Technology, Part 1),  445-448.  Publisher: Trans Tech Publications Ltd.,  CODEN: DDBPE8  ISSN: 1012-0394.  Journal  written in English.    AN 2007:268778    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The surface morphol. of the anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) prepd. with different surface coating has been studied by AFM and SEM.  Under optimized condition, highly ordered stripe patterns have been obtained.  These regular patterns, including random stripes and regular stripes, show strong dependence on the crystal orientation of the aluminum substrate.  This method can be developed into a novel nanoscale fabrication technique.

 

WO2007023167A1

TRANSCORNEAL SYSTEM FOR DELIVERY OF A PHARMACEUTICAL AGENT

BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM INTERNATIONAL GMBH | BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM PHARMA GMBH & CO. KG

3/1/2007

The invention relates to a transcorneal system for delivery of a pharmaceutical agent, made from a matrix material forming a baseplate (1), said baseplate (1) being connected to a number of projections (4) for penetration of the Stratum corneum of the skin, said projections (4) being made from the matrix material and comprising the agent.

 

WO2004101023A3

A METHOD FOR ALTERING INSULIN PHARMACOKINETICS

BECTON DICKINSON AND COMPANY

3/1/2007

The present invention relates to methods for administration of insulin into the intradermal compartment of subject's skin, preferably to the dermal vasculature of the intradermal compartment. The methods of the present invention enhance the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of insulin delivery and effectively result in a superior clinical efficacy in the treatment and/or prevention of diabetes mellitus. The methods of the instant invention provide an improved glycemic control of both non-fasting (i.e., post-prandial) and fasting blood glucose levels and thus have an enhanced therapeutic efficacy in treatment, prevention and/or management of diabetes relative to traditional methods of insulin delivery, including subcutaneous insulin delivery.

 

US7182747B2

Solid solution perforator for drug delivery and other applications

TheraJect, Inc.

2/27/2007

A solid drug solution perforator (SSP) system and an associated drug reservoir are provided for delivering therapeutic, prophylactic and/or cosmetic compounds, for nutrient delivery and for drug targeting. For drug delivery, the SSP system includes an active drug ingredient and a matrix of perforator material that biodegrades or dissolves quickly upon contact with a patient's body. The SSP system provides a skin barrier perforator and a controller for prompt initiation and cut-off of drug delivery. In a preferred method of transdermal drug delivery, an SSP system containing a selected drug penetrates into an epidermis or dermis, and the drug is promptly released from the (dissolving) SSP system perforator. An additional drug is optionally delivered from a patch reservoir through skin pores created by insertion of the perforator. Formulation and fabrication procedures for the SSP and associated reservoir are also provided. An SSP system can be fabricated with variety of shapes and dimensions.

 

US7169251B2

Method of forming nanofluidic channels

The Regents of the University of Michigan

1/30/2007

A method of forming nanofluidic enclosed channels includes providing a first substrate having a layer of a first material disposed thereon. A plurality of nanoscale slots is formed along a second substrate using nanolithography, etching, or other disclosed techniques. The first substrate is then bonded to the second substrate such that the layer of the first material on the first substrate is adjacent the plurality of slots on the second substrate to define a plurality of enclosed nanofluidic channels therethrough.

 

US7169117B2

Integrated lance and strip for analyte measurement

Lifescan, Inc.

1/30/2007

The present invention relates, in general, to lancing elements for use in drawing bodily fluids out of a patient and, more particularly, to an improved lancing element including first and second elements positioned relative to each other such that an incision formed by the first element is held open by the second element and bodily fluids are pulled up the lancing element by surface tension on the first and second lancing elements.

 

US7166086B2

Substance delivery via a rotating microabrading surface

Becton, Dickinson and Company

1/23/2007

A method and device for the delivery of a substance into skin via the rotational movement of a microabrader device reduces the effects of operator variability. The method includes applying a substance to an area of a patient's skin through the rotational movement of microprotrusions which may be imparted by a spring device present in the microabrader device or the motion of the operator through the handle of the microabrader device. The device may further include system and methods for monitoring pressure of the device against the skin and thereby promote consistency between applications and control of penetration depth. The delivered substance may be placed on the microprotrusions and a reconstituting liquid included in the microabrader device.

 

WO2007001003A1

BIOSENSOR

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1/4/2007

A (needle integrating) biosensor of high precision that ensures easy assembly, excelling in the reproducibility of (needle integrating) biosensor produced. There is provided a biosensor produced by providing two insulating substrates linked to each other through a junction and, superimposed on one or both thereof, an electrode and a spacer and folding back the two insulating substrates along the junction so as to position the electrode and spacer (and a puncture needle for puncturing the skin of a test subject to sample the body fluid) between the insulating substrates. This (needle integrating) biosensor, as it is easily produced by folding back the two insulating substrates linked to each other through a junction, realizes easy production avoiding cumbersome steps, such as accurately superimposing of individual biosensor members. Moreover, the produced (needle integrating) biosensor attains advantageous effects inclusive of high precision and high reproducibility.

 

DE10305831B4

Diagnosegerдt

Siemens AG

1/4/2007

Diagnosegerдt mit • einem Mikronadelfeld (3), • einer dieses tragenden Haltevorrichtung (2), • einer mit dem Mikronadelfeld (3) verbundenen Datenaufnahmevorrichtung (6), • einer mit dieser verbundenen Datenauswertevorrichtung (7), • einer mit dieser verbundenen Anzeigevorrichtung (8) an der Haltevorrichtung (2), dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass als Haltevorrichtung (2) ein Handschuh vorgesehen ist.

 

WO2006137549A1

BIOSENSOR

MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

12/28/2006

An excellent biosensor capable of supplying sample liquid accurately and easily. The biosensor has a capillary (7) capable of collecting the sample liquid and measures a specific substance in the sample liquid. The biosensor has, other than an air hole (9), at least two supply openings that are a test substance supply opening (13) and an auxiliary test substance supply opening (14). This enables a test substance to be supplied from either supply opening. When the test substance supply opening (13) is closed by a finger tip to stop the supply of the sample liquid, the test substance can be quickly supplied from the other opening, which is the auxiliary test substance supply opening (14).

 

WO2006132791A1

METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A DISPOSABLE DIAGNOSTIC METER

HOME DIAGNOSTICS, INC.

12/14/2006

A method for manufacturing a diagnostic testing system is provided. Various methods are described for calibrating the test system to work with selected test media compatible with the calibration to provide accurate results. The methods eliminate the need for any kind of user-coding. Packaging only compatible selected diagnostic test media with the calibrated meter can include at least one container for enclosing the diagnostic test media, wherein the container can be physically coupled to the diagnostic meter.

 

WO2006132602A1

POLYMERIC MICRONEEDLE ARRAY AND APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING OF THE SAME

NANYANG POLYTECHNIC

12/14/2006

The present invention provides a polymeric microneedle array (51), and an apparatus and method for manufacturing the polymeric microneedle array (51). The apparatus comprises a forming mould (10) having a surrounding wall (11) so as to forming a cavity and a bottom integrated with one end of the surrounding wall (11), wherein the bottom has an array of openings; a top mould (20) having an array of apertures that are aligned with the openings in the forming mould; and a holding plate (30) having and an array of micro pins (32) that are integrated onto the plate (30) so that the micro pins (32) can be moved up or down with the plate (30). The method comprises the steps of providing polymeric materials to the bottom of the cavity of the forming mould; closing the top mould (20) and the forming mould; moving down the micro pins (32); curing the molten polymeric materials; withdrawing the top mould (20); retracting the pins (32); and obtaining the polymeric microneedle array (51). The present invention further pro

 

JP2006334420A

MEDICAL NEEDLE AND MEDICAL DEVICE

LIGHTNIX INC

12/14/2006

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a medical needle capable of minimizing pain to a patient and minimizing damage to the pierced portion of the patient, and to provide a medical device.SOLUTION: A medical needle extending in a specified direction, wherein the cross sectional area of a vertical cross section cut by a plane perpendicular to the specified direction is regularly increased or decreased depending on a distance from the tip part thereof, has a plurality of maximum points where the cross sectional area of the vertical cross section is maximized and a plurality of minimum points where the cross sectional area of the vertical cross section is minimized, and the cross sectional area has a trapezoidal shape in a part between the maximum point nearest the tip part and the maximum point nearest the rear end.COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPITCOPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

 

EP1360934B1

Devices and methods for accessing and analyzing physiological fluid

LifeScan, Inc.

12/6/2006

Systems, devices and methods for determining the concentration of physiological fluid analytes are provided. The subject systems have a plurality of biosensor devices present on a disposable cartridge. Each biosensor device includes a biosensor and a skin penetration means. In practicing the subject methods, a movement means of the device is used to move each biosensor device in a first direction that provides for penetration of the skin-piercing means into a skin layer followed by movement of the biosensor in a second direction that provides for removal of the skin-piercing means from the skin layer, where this movement profile provides for physiological fluid access and analyte concentration determination by the analyte sensor means. The subject systems, devices and methods for using the same find use in determining the concentration of a variety of different physiological fluid analytes, and are particularly suited for use in detection of physiological fluid glucose concentration.

 

Ionic Gradients at an Electrode above the Equilibrium Limit Current. 2. Transition to Convection.      Van Tassel, Jonathan J.; Randall, Clive A.    Materials Research Institute,  The Pennsylvania State University,  University Park,  PA,  USA.    Journal of Physical Chemistry C  (2007),  111(8),  3349-3357.  Publisher: American Chemical Society,  CODEN: JPCCCK  ISSN: 1932-7447.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:369596    AN 2007:150168    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  When one member of a simple binary electrolyte is consumed at an electrode, an ion depleted layer will form at that electrode.  Under const. current conditions this layer will have a net electrostatic charge opposite that of the electrode.  This leads to an attractive electrostatic body force between the soln. in the depletion layer and the electrode which increases with proximity to the electrode.  There are three primary processes that can occur in this soln.: elec. field relaxation, convective motion, and ionic diffusion/migration.  By ranking these processes according to the speed with which their effects propagate through the soln., we show that this depletion layer is highly unstable and will transition to convective motion on the micrometer scale, generally before any voltage artifact is generated.  A Rayleigh no. for elec. forced convection is calcd. and shown to rise by 3 orders of magnitude at precisely the time convection must begin.  In this type of system, elec. driven convection will begin at the depletion electrode and grow out into the bulk of the soln. following a moving ion depletion gradient layer.  This is demonstrated by DC conduction in an ethanol soln. contg. added HCl.

 

An environment-friendly electrochemical detachment method for porous anodic alumina.      Chen, Wei; Wu, Jian-Shuang; Yuan, Jin-Hua; Xia, Xing-Hua; Lin, Xin-Hua.    Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering,  Nanjing University,  Nanjing,  Peop. Rep. China.    Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry  (2007),  600(2),  257-264.  Publisher: Elsevier B.V.,  CODEN: JECHES  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:367505    AN 2007:97527    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  This paper describes an improved 1-step voltage pulse detachment method by using HClO4 and EtOH mixt. as detaching soln. for the prepn. of through-hole porous anodic alumina (PAA) membranes.  The detachment of PAA from Al substrate and the dissoln. of the barrier layer can be completed simultaneously in the detachment soln. by applying a pulse voltage in situ after the anodization process.  The influence of voltage pulse height and nature of the detachment soln. on the efficiency of detachment were systematically studied.  The present procedure is more environmental friendly and efficient as compared to the conventional electrochem. detachment methods and is promising for the prepn. of freestanding PAA films with through-hole morphol. which are important for nanomaterials synthesis and nanoscale sepn.

 

Normal and inverse spin-valve effect in organic semiconductor nanowires and the background monotonic magnetoresistance.      Pramanik, Sandipan; Bandyopadhyay, Supriyo; Garre, Kalyan; Cahay, Marc.    Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering,  Virginia Commonwealth University,  Richmond,  VA,  USA.    Physical Review B: Condensed Matter and Materials Physics  (2006),  74(23),  235329/1-235329/7.  Publisher: American Physical Society,  CODEN: PRBMDO  ISSN: 1098-0121.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:263242    AN 2007:84995    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  We have obsd. both peaks and troughs in the magnetoresistance of org. nanowires consisting of three layers: Co, 8-hydroxy-quinolinolato Al (Alq3), and Ni.  They always occur between the coercive fields of the ferromagnetic layers, and we attribute them to the normal and inverse spin-valve effect.  The latter is caused by resonant tunneling through localized impurity states in the org. material.  Peaks are always found to be accompanied by a pos. monotonic background magnetoresistance, while troughs are accompanied by a neg. monotonic background magnetoresistance.  This curious correlation suggests that the background magnetoresistance, whose origin has hitherto remained unexplained, is probably caused by the recently proposed phenomenon of magnetic-field-induced enhancement of spin-flip scattering in the presence of spin-orbit interaction [Cahay and Bandyopadhyay (2004)].

 

Nanopore formation dynamics during aluminum anodization.      Sheintuch, Moshe; Smagina, Yelena.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  Technion,  Haifa Israel.    Physica D: Nonlinear Phenomena (Amsterdam, Netherlands)  (2007),  226(1),  95-105.  Publisher: Elsevier B.V.,  CODEN: PDNPDT  ISSN: 0167-2789.  Journal  written in English.    AN 2007:46577    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  This paper predicts the evolution of nanopores during anodic oxidn. of aluminum.  The theory is based on approx. nonlinear evolution equations of the interfaces, which reproduce all the obsd. patterns, and using them for stability anal.  The pore structure in the early stages is described by the Damped Kuramoto-Sivashinsky (DKS) equation, which predicts hexagonal patterns with points and line defects, in agreement with exptl. observations of the evolving pores.  This is the first work to follow pore dynamics.  Comparison with asymptotic const.-thickness and -curvature solns. is conducted.

 

Raman scattering studies of the low-frequency vibrational modes of bacteriophage M13 in water-observation of an axial torsion mode.      Tsen, K. T.; Dykeman, Eric C.; Sankey, Otto F.; Tsen, Shaw-Wei D.; Lin, Nien-Tsung; Kiang, Juliann G.    Department of Physics and Astronomy,  Arizona State University,  Tempe,  AZ,  USA.    Nanotechnology  (2006),  17(21),  5474-5479.  Publisher: Institute of Physics Publishing,  CODEN: NNOTER  ISSN: 0957-4484.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:353937    AN 2007:25971    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Low-wavenumber (20 cm-1) acoustic vibrations of the M13 phage have been studied using Raman spectroscopy.  The dominant acoustic vibrational mode has been found to be at 8.5 cm-1.  The exptl. results are compared with theor. calcns. based on an elastic continuum model and appropriate Raman selection rules derived from a bond polarizability model.  The obsd. Raman mode has been shown to belong to one of the Raman-active axial torsion modes of the M13 phage protein coat.  It is expected that the detection and characterization of this low-frequency vibrational mode can be used for applications in nanotechnol. such as for monitoring the process of virus functionalization and self-assembly.

 

A Study of Anodization Process during Pore Formation in Nanoporous Alumina Templates.      Wu, Z.; Richter, C.; Menon, L.    Dep. Phys.,  Northeastern Univ.,  Boston,  MA,  USA.    Journal of the Electrochemical Society  (2007),  154(1),  E8-E12.  Publisher: Electrochemical Society,  CODEN: JESOAN  ISSN: 0013-4651.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:260557    AN 2007:12800    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The authors have carried out a systematic study of the anodization procedure to det. the exact chem. mechanism of the dissoln. process responsible for pore formation in nanoporous alumina templates.  The authors measured the anodization current as a function of time and compared it with the thickness of porous Al oxide layer obtained from cross-section SEM images.  From this, the authors calcd. the no. of moles of electrons generated per mol of porous alumina grown.  This anal. is consistent with a reaction mechanism in which Al is converted to Al oxide in addn. with the direct transfer of Al ions across the thin barrier Al oxide into the electrolyte.  Hence, exptl. evidence is reported that indicate that the dissoln. process obsd. is that of Al3+ ions migrating across the barrier layer and dissolving into the soln.  Contrary to the suggestion of some authors, these expts. indicate that at most a negligible amt. of oxide dissolves during the anodization of Al.

 

Non-lithographic nano-arrays fabricated using porous alumina.      Menon, Latika.    Texas Tech University,  Lubbock,  TX,  USA.  Editor(s): Balandin, Alexander A.; Wang, Kang L.    Handbook of Semiconductor Nanostructures and Nanodevices  (2006),  2  437-455.  Publisher: American Scientific Publishers,  Stevenson Ranch, Calif  CODEN: 69ISSD  Conference; General Review  written in English.    CAN 147:106022    AN 2006:1336255    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A review, with 66 refs., discussing several new methods based on pore pattern transfer method that have been developed which are very useful in prepg. novel semiconductor nanostructures for applications in high performance nano and optoelectronic devices.

 

WO2006124639A1

PERMEABILIZATION OF BIOLOGICAL MEMBRANES

CORIUM INTERNATIONAL, INC.

11/23/2006

In one embodiment of the invention, electrodes are brought into the vicinity of a biological membrane such as human skin. Through those electrodes, a current is driven. As a result of that current, at one electrode there occurs a reaction in which the pH of the water or other fluid in a small area of the membrane is lowered or raised. The lowered or raised pH causes substances present in the membrane to denature or decompose, resulting in the formation of a channel in the membrane. In another embodiment of the invention, a high volatility fluid is applied to a membrane from the outside. A small area of the membrane is heated. The high volatility fluid expands and then vaporizes. As a result of the expansion and vaporization of the fluid, a channel is created in the membrane.

 

US20060264806A1

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

MATTIOLI ENGINEERING LTD.

11/23/2006

A treatment method and apparatus for providing a substance to be absorbed onto a surface of a patient's skin, includes applying the substance onto the surface of the patient's skin by way of a probe head that provides, at the same time: i) bursts of electrical pulses to the skin surface, and ii) vibrations to the skin surface. The vibrations are applied to the skin surface at substantially a same frequency rate, a first harmonic of the same frequency rate, and/or a second harmonic of the same frequency rate, as a burst rate of electrical pulses being applied to the skin surface.

 

WO2005101994A3

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING SENSOR GUARD FOR DATA MONITORING AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

THERASENSE, INC.

11/16/2006

Method and apparatus for providing sensor guard for data monitoring and detection system having a sensor for detecting one or more glucose levels, the sensor including a work electrode disposed on a base material, a reference electrode disposed on the base material, and a guard electrode disposed on the base material, where the guard electrode is maintained substantially at equipotential to the work electrode, and a transmitter operatively coupled to the work electrode and the reference electrode of the sensor for receiving said detected glucose levels, where the transmitter is further configured to transmit a respective signal corresponding to each of the detected glucose levels using a data transmission protocol including wireless data transmission protocols, to a receiver which is configured to receive the transmitted signals corresponding to said detected glucose levels is provided. The method and apparatus may also include insulin administration unit such as an insulin pump configured to be in data commu

 

US20060254446A1

Imprint lithography

ASML NETHERLANDS B.V.

11/16/2006

An imprint lithography apparatus is disclosed which has a needle, and a substrate table arranged to hold a substrate to be imprinted, wherein the needle is moveable between a first position and a second position, the first position being such that in use the needle penetrates a layer of imprintable material on the substrate, and the second position being such that in use the needle is disengaged from the imprintable material on the substrate, the substrate table and the needle arranged such that one may be scanned relative to the other.

 

US7132054B1

Method to fabricate hollow microneedle arrays

Sandia Corporation

11/7/2006

An inexpensive and rapid method for fabricating arrays of hollow microneedles uses a photoetchable glass. Furthermore, the glass hollow microneedle array can be used to form a negative mold for replicating microneedles in biocompatible polymers or metals. These microneedle arrays can be used to extract fluids from plants or animals. Glucose transport through these hollow microneedles arrays has been found to be orders of magnitude more rapid than natural diffusion.

 

US7131987B2

Microstructures and method for treating and conditioning skin which cause less irritation during exfoliation

Corium International, Inc.

11/7/2006

An improved method is provided to enhance skin appearance and health, in which skin is cleaned (or exfoliated) and conditioned by use of microelements affixed to a base element or hand-held patch. For the microstructure used in the improved method, the dimensions of the microelements are controlled so as to remove a certain number of layers of skin cells and to accumulate and retain those skin cells, along with other foreign substances, into areas between the microelements. In another embodiment of the improved method, a conditioning compound or therapeutic active can be applied to the exfoliated skin to enhance the skin. Moreover, the amount of skin cells accumulated using the improved method represents a self-limiting maximum quantity that cannot be substantially exceeded regardless of the number of attempts by a user to re-use the microstructure apparatus associated with the improved method. Some of the microelement shapes are purposefully designed with distal ends that exhibit sharp edges rather than shar

 

WO2006116605A2

METHOD FOR FORMING HOLLOW OUT-OF-PLANE MICRONEEDLES AND DEVICES FORMED THEREBY

THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

11/2/2006

A method and apparatus for forming microneedles and other microstructures using hardenable materials and useful for substance monitoring and/or drug delivery.

 

WO2006116242A2

MICRONEEDLE WITH GLUCOSE SENSOR AND METHOD THEREOF

INFOTONICS TECHNOLOGY CENTER, INC.

11/2/2006

A method for making a needle for monitoring blood, a blood monitoring system and a needle array system for monitoring blood are described. Sensors are associated with each microneedle so that each microneedle can sample blood chemistry without extraction. The sensing process is achieved while the needle is inside the patient, minimizing invasiveness and contamination.

 

US7130696B2

Percutaneous electrode array

Biowave Corporation

10/31/2006

A method of producing percutaneous electrode array is disclosed for applying therapeutic electrical energy to a treatment site in the body of a patient. The array comprises a plurality of electrode microstructures which are inserted into the epidermis, thereby overcoming the inherent electrical impedance of the outer skin layers and obviating the need to prepare the skin surface prior to an electro-therapy treatment. The array preferably includes an adhesion layer to help keep the electrode microstructures inserted into the epidermis during the duration of the therapeutic treatment, and temperature and condition monitoring devices to ensure proper treatment and enhance patient safety.

 

US7127284B2

Electroporation microneedle and methods for its use

Mercator MedSystems, Inc.

10/24/2006

Electroporation of cells in target tissues is performed using microneedles having integral electrode structures. In a first embodiment, a pair of electrode structures are disposed on opposite sides of a substance delivery opening on a needle or other tissue-penetrating shaft. In a second embodiment, a first electrode structure is disposed on the needle and a second electrode structure is disposed on an attached base. The electrode structures are spaced closely together and relatively low voltages are applied to achieve electroporation-enhanced substance delivery.

 

WO2006105968A1

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE EXTRACTION OF A BODY FLUID

F. HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG | ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH

10/12/2006

The invention relates to a method and a device for the extraction of a body fluid, whereby a piercing element (10) is inserted, by way of an advance movement (54), through the skin into a body part (14) and the body fluid is received via a capillary structure (18) of the piercing element (10). The invention is characterized by detecting any contact of the piercing element (10) with body fluid after the advance movement (54) and during a collection phase (62) inside the body part (14).

 

EP1709906A1

Method and device for blood sampling

F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG | Roche Diagnostics GmbH

10/11/2006

Blood sampling comprises pricking a pricking element in forward movements through the skin in body part, receiving the blood over the capillary structure of the element and detecting the blood contact of the element during collecting phase The pricking element (10): is withdrawn with uniform speed after the forward movement in a back pulling movement from the deepest pricking position into a back pulling position by smaller pricking depth; is withdrawn in the area of stratum corneums; and is moved backward during the collecting phase around 2-0.1 mm. The reception of the blood is controlled over the detection of the blood fluid contact, and a given collecting duration is awaited for the reception of the blood during the detection of the blood contact. The blood fluid contact is detected: at a renewed pricking in the point of reversal for the back pulling movement; in the back pulling position; in the area of the stratum corneums; by capacitive or inductive or resistive measuring parameters, capillary structur

 

WO2006065705A3

SELF-CONTAINED TEST SENSOR

BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC

10/5/2006

A test strip to assist in determining the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample comprises a base, at least one tab and a break line. The base includes a capillary channel and a test element. The capillary channel is in fluid communication with the test element. The test element is adapted to receive the fluid sample. The at least one tab is removably attached to the base. The capillary channel extends from the base into a portion of the tab. The break line intersects the capillary channel in which an inlet to the capillary channel is exposed along the break line when the tab is separated from the base.

 

US7115108B2

Method and device for intradermally delivering a substance

Becton, Dickinson and Company

10/3/2006

A device for delivering a substance into the skin of a patient includes a body and a skin penetrating device having at least one skin penetrating member, such as a microneedle. The body includes an internal cavity and a device for indicating the delivery of a sufficient amount of the substance to the patient and for producing a dispensing pressure to dispense and deliver the substance from the cavity. The indicating device is visible from the exterior of the delivery device. In some embodiments, the indicating device is an elastic expandable diaphragm which, when the cavity is filled with a substance, creates the dispensing pressure.

 

WO2006062974A3

METHOD OF MOLDING A MICRONEEDLE

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY

9/28/2006

A method of molding a microneedle using a mold apparatus that comprises a mold insert (210) having the negative image of at least one microneedle (12), a compression core (240), and a mold housing configured to allow a reciprocal motion between the mold insert and the compression core. The mold apparatus has an open position and a closed position. The mold apparatus is placed in the closed position and polymeric material is injected into the closed mold apparatus. The injected polymeric material is compressed between the mold insert and the compression core by a reciprocal motion between the compression core and the mold insert. Also, molding methods wherein the mold apparatus has sidewalls having an injection gate (270). Also, molding methods comprising a heated mold insert. Also, molding methods comprising the application of high frequency acoustic energy, such as ultrasonic energy, to the mold apparatus.

 

US20060217654A1

Iontophoresis device

Transcutaneous Technologies Inc.

9/28/2006

An iontophoresis device includes: a first electrode; a biological interface contact member including a substrate having a front surface and a rear surface, and a plurality of needles that protrude from the front surface of the substrate and can be inserted into a biological interface, the biological interface contact member allowing selective permeation of ions of a first polarity; and a drug holding part applied with an electrical potential or voltage through the first electrode and holding a drug solution containing drug ions charged in the first polarity, the drug holding part being interposed between the first electrode and the biological interface contact member.

 

US7108681B2

Microstructures for delivering a composition cutaneously to skin

Corium International, Inc.

9/19/2006

An improved method and apparatus is provided as a system to deliver a composition, preferably a medical or pharmaceutical composition or active, through the stratum corneum of skin, without introducing bleeding or damage to tissue, and absent pain or other trauma. The dimensions and shapes of the microelements are controlled so as to control the penetration depth into the skin. The microelements can be hollow" such that passageways are created therethrough to allow the composition to flow from a chamber

 through the microelements

 and into the skin. Alternatively

 the microelements can be "solid

 and the composition is applied directly to the skin just before or just after the microelements are applied to the skin surface to create the openings in the stratum corneum.

US7105103B2

System and method for the manufacture of surgical blades

Becton, Dickinson and Company

9/12/2006

A method for manufacturing surgical blades from either a crystalline or poly-crystalline material, preferably in the form of a wafer, is disclosed. The method includes preparing the crystalline or poly-crystalline wafers by mounting them and machining trenches into the wafers. The methods for machining the trenches, which form the bevel blade surfaces, include a diamond blade saw, laser system, ultrasonic machine, and a hot forge press. The wafers are then placed in an etchant solution which isotropically etches the wafers in a uniform manner, such that layers of crystalline or poly-crystalline material are removed uniformly, producing single or double bevel blades. Nearly any angle can be machined into the wafer which remains after etching. The resulting radii of the blade edges is 5-500 nm, which is the same caliber as a diamond edged blade, but manufactured at a fraction of the cost.

 

US20060194768A1

Thiazole and thiadiazole inhibitors of tyrosine phosphatases

8/31/2006

Compounds and compositions are provided for modulating the activity of protein tyrosine phosphatases. In one embodiment, the compounds and compositions are thiazoles and thiadiazoles that inhibit the activity of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B.

 

EP1266608B1

Biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement device

LifeScan, Inc.

8/23/2006

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring a target analyte within the biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and access biological fluid, a sampling means and a measuring means. The sampling means comprises a fluid transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic porous material, by which sampled biological fluid is transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode and, typically, a reagent material, where the electrochemical cell is configured so as to make an electrochemical measurement of a target analyte in accessed biological fluid present therein. Methods of sampling biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices.

 

WO2006021361A3

MICROFLUID SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRODUCTION THEREOF

F. HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG | ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH

8/17/2006

The invention relates to a microfluid system, comprising a support body (12), provided with a puncture device (14) and a semi-open microchannel (16), arranged thereon, for the capillary transport of a sample fluid from a taking position to a target position (22,24). According to the invention, a higher aspect ratio may be achieved, whereby the support body (12) is coated with an applied layer (18) which laterally defines the microchannel (16), at least in the upper region.

 

US20060174592A1

Lancet protective cap

8/10/2006

A unique technique for maintaining the sterility and integrity of a lancet tip. One or more lancet tips are sandwiched between a first web and a second web of material to protect the sterility of the lancet tips. The first and second webs are heat fused together to form a structure that covers and encapsulates the lancet tips to protect the integrity of the lancet tips. The structure is cut to form individual protective caps to detachably cover each of the lancet tips.

 

US7083580B2

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

Mattioli Engineering Ltd.

8/1/2006

A treatment method and apparatus for providing a substance to be absorbed onto a surface of a patient's skin, includes applying the substance onto the surface of the patient's skin by way of a probe head that provides, at the same time: i) bursts of electrical pulses to the skin surface, and ii) vibrations to the skin surface. The vibrations are applied to the skin surface at substantially a same frequency rate, a first harmonic of the same frequency rate, and/or a second harmonic of the same frequency rate, as a burst rate of electrical pulses being applied to the skin surface.

 

US20060163215A1

Process for producing pad based for transdermal drug administration, pad base for transdermal drug administration and needle

7/27/2006

According to a conventional MicroPatch method, a drug is administrated by stinging the skin with a solid-core needle, and broadening a gap between the needle and the skin by vibration with a vibrator. Consequently, the object of the present invention is to provide a pad base for endermism capable of administrating a drug in the skin without vibration, and to provide a production process capable of easily obtaining the pad base. One side end of the thin metal wire is immersed in a solution containing a synthetic resin raw material in a lengthwise direction, the synthetic resin raw material solution adheres to a periphery of the thin metal wire, the synthetic resin raw material solution is hardened and then the thin metal wire is pulled out. There is obtained the minute needle 1 which is installed upright on the skin side of a patch base 2, wherein the minute needle is a hollow tubular body and the outer wall thereof is thickened toward the bottom. A drug in the hollow portion 3 of the minute needle 1 is inject

 

EP1675539A2

PRETREATMENT METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ENHANCING TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY

ALZA Corporation

7/5/2006

A drug delivery system for delivering a biologically active agent through the skin of a patient comprises (i) a pretreatment patch adapted to be placed on the patient's skin, the pretreatment patch having a backing membrane and a microprojection array, the microprojection array being adhered to the backing membrane, the microprojection array including a plurality of microprojections adapted to pierce the stratum corneum of the patient, the pretreatment patch including a skin template that remains on the patient's skin after the pretreatment patch is applied to and removed from the patient's skin, and (ii) a gel patch having a top and bottom surface, the gel patch including a reservoir containing a hydrogel formulation, the gel patch having a skin contact area in the range of approximately 0.5 -30 CM2.

 

US7066922B2

Transdermal transport device with suction

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

6/27/2006

A transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and one or more needles. Each needle has a bore through which the formulation is transported between the reservoir and a biological body, and has an end portion that is substantially aligned in a plane parallel to a surface of the biological body when the device is placed on the surface. The device also includes a vacuum generator which creates a suction to draw a portion of the surface beyond the plane of the end portions to enable the end portions to penetrate the portion of the surface as the needles are translated along an axis that is substantially parallel to the plane.

 

WO2006065705A2

SELF-CONTAINED TEST SENSOR

BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC

6/22/2006

A test strip to assist in determining the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample comprises a base, at least one tab and a break line. The base includes a capillary channel and a test element. The capillary channel is in fluid communication with the test element. The test element is adapted to receive the fluid sample. The at least one tab is removably attached to the base. The capillary channel extends from the base into a portion of the tab. The break line intersects the capillary channel in which an inlet to the capillary channel is exposed along the break line when the tab is separated from the base.

 

EP1671613A1

Transunguale Vorrichtung

L'ORЙAL

6/21/2006

Transungual composition, useful to e.g. strengthen the nails, comprises active agent of non-fructifying extract, non-photosynthetic filamentous bacterium and a dialkylsulfone Transungual composition (A) comprises an active agent of an extract of non-fructifying, non-photosynthetic filamentous bacterium and/or a dialkylsulfone.

 

WO2006062974A2

METHOD OF MOLDING A MICRONEEDLE

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY

6/15/2006

A method of molding a microneedle using a mold apparatus that comprises a mold insert having the negative image of at least one microneedle, a compression core, and a mold housing configured to allow a reciprocal motion between the mold insert and the compression core. The mold apparatus has an open position and a closed position. The mold apparatus is placed in the closed position and polymeric material is injected into the closed mold apparatus. The injected polymeric material is compressed between the mold insert and the compression core by a reciprocal motion between the compression core and the mold insert. Also, molding methods wherein the mold apparatus has sidewalls having an injection gate. Also, molding methods comprising a heated mold insert. Also, molding methods comprising the application of high frequency acoustic energy, such as ultrasonic energy, to the mold apparatus.

 

Low-voltage organic transistors on a polymer substrate with an aluminum foil gate fabricated by a laminating and electropolishing process.      Yang, Chanwoo; Shin, Kwonwoo; Yang, Sang Yoon; Jeon, Hayoung; Choi, Danbi; Chung, Dae Sung; Park, Chan Eon.    Polymer Research Institute, Department of Chemical Engineering,  Pohang University of Science and Technology,  Pohang,  S. Korea.    Applied Physics Letters  (2006),  89(15),  153508/1-153508/3.  Publisher: American Institute of Physics,  CODEN: APPLAB  ISSN: 0003-6951.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:53061    AN 2006:1110336    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The authors report flexible and low-voltage pentacene org. field-effect transistors (OFETs) constructed with an Al foil gate electrode, which was fabricated by the simple and low-cost roll-to-roll lamination process.  Electropolishing the surface of laminated Al foil and spin coating it with an addnl. thin polymer film resulted in a gate dielec. surface with a root-mean-square roughness of about 0.85 nm.  These pentacene OFETs with a poly(-methylstyrene)/anodized Al2O3 dual-layered gate dielec. exhibit a mobility of 0.52 cm2/V s, an on-off ratio of 105, a subthreshold swing of 317 mV/decade, and little hysteresis when operating at -5 V.

 

Observation of the low frequency vibrational modes of bacteriophage M13 in water by Raman spectroscopy.      Tsen, K. T.; Dykeman, Eric C.; Sankey, Otto F.; Lin, Nien-Tsung; Tsen, Shaw-Wei D.; Kiang, Juliann G.    Department of Physics and Astronomy,  Arizona State University,  Tempe,  AZ,  USA.    Virology Journal  (2006),  3  No pp. given.  Publisher: BioMed Central Ltd.,  CODEN: VJIOA4  ISSN: 1743-422X.  http://www.virologyj.com/content/pdf/1743-422X-3-79.pdf  Journal; Online Computer File  written in English.    CAN 146:61156    AN 2006:1091726    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Recently, a technique which departs radically from conventional approaches has been proposed.  This novel technique utilizes biol. objects such as viruses as nano-templates for the fabrication of nanostructure elements.  For example, rod-shaped viruses such as the M13 phage and tobacco mosaic virus have been successfully used as biol. templates for the synthesis of semiconductor and metallic nanowires.  Low wave no. ( 20cm-1) acoustic vibrations of the M13 phage have been studied using Raman spectroscopy.  The exptl. results are compared with theor. calcns. based on an elastic continuum model and appropriate Raman selection rules derived from a bond polarizability model.  The obsd. Raman mode has been shown to belong to one of the Raman-active axial torsion modes of the M13 phage protein coat.  It is expected that the detection and characterization of this low frequency vibrational mode can be used for applications in nanotechnol. such as for monitoring the process of virus functionalization and self-assembly.  For example, the differences in Raman spectra can be used to monitor the coating of virus with some other materials and nano-assembly process, such as attaching a carbon nanotube or quantum dots.

 

Surface Morphologies of Electrochemically Prepared Materials Simulated by Reaction-diffusion Models.      Boscheto, Emerson Paulinho; Lopes, Mauro Chierici.    Departamento de Quimica,  Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste,  Guarapuava,  Brazil.    Journal of Computer-Aided Materials Design  (2006),  12(2-3),  131-139.  Publisher: Springer,  CODEN: JCODES  ISSN: 0928-1045.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 146:130292    AN 2006:906004    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The emergence of spatial patterns in electrochem. formed materials opens the possibility to exploit nonlinear behavior to devise a technique for electrochem. prepn. of materials with unique properties arising from their spatial organization.  The authors discuss the mechanism of Turing pattern formation on the electrode surface.  The authors propose a modification of the Brusselator model, which includes an inhomogeneous influx of the autocatalytic specie.  Several kinds of patterns were simulated.

 

Formation of self-organized nanoscale porous structures in anodic aluminum oxide.      Singh, G. K.; Golovin, A. A.; Aranson, I. S.    Department of Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics,  Northwestern University,  Evanston,  IL,  USA.    Physical Review B: Condensed Matter and Materials Physics  (2006),  73(20),  205422/1-205422/12.  Publisher: American Physical Society,  CODEN: PRBMDO  ISSN: 1098-0121.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 145:218683    AN 2006:583010    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A theory of the spontaneous formation of nanoscale porous structures in Al oxide films growing during Al anodization is presented.  The main elements of this theory are the Butler-Volmer relation describing the exponential dependence of the current on the overpotential and the dependence of the activation energies of the oxide-electrolyte interfacial reactions on the Laplace pressure and the elastic stress in the oxide layer.  Two cases are considered, distinguished by whether the elastic stress dependence is significant or not.  In the case when the effect of elastic stress is negligible, a linear stability anal. predicts a long-wave instability resulting from the field-assisted dissoln. reaction; its competition with the stabilizing effect of the Laplace pressure due to the surface energy provides the wavelength selection mechanism.  A weakly nonlinear anal. near the instability threshold reveals that the nonlinear dynamics of the interface perturbations is governed by the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation.  The spatiotemporally chaotic solns. of this equation can explain the formation of spatially irregular pore arrays that are obsd. in expts.  In the case when the effect of elastic stress in the oxide layer is significant the instability can transform from the long-wave type to the short-wave type.  A weakly nonlinear anal. of the short-wave instability shows that it leads to the growth of spatially regular, hexagonally ordered pore arrays, as obsd. exptl.

 

WO2006062848A1

MEDICAL DEVICE

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY

6/15/2006

A medical device (20) is provided that is suitable for use in the delivery of active component into or through the skin. The medical device comprises: an extension member (22) having a first major surface (24) and a second major surface (26), the first major surface comprising a first portion and a second portion; an array retaining member (28) extending from the first portion of the first major surface of the extension member, the array retaining member comprising an array surface (30) having at least one microneedle (32) extending from the array surface; and pressure sensitive adhesive (34) disposed on the second portion of the first major surface of the extension member to facilitate the adhesive attachment of the device to mammalian skin when the at least one microneedle is inserted through the stratum corneum.

 

WO2006060106A1

TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE

HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY L.P.

6/8/2006

A transdermal drug delivery device (100, 100’) includes a cassette (104) and a lid (106) that is attachable to the cassette (104). The cassette (104) includes a first reservoir (110) for containing a drug (102) and microneedles (116). At least one of the microneedles (116) is in fluid communication with the first reservoir (110). The lid (104) includes a power source (114, 144) and an electronic device (138) configured to receive electrical energy generated from the power source (114, 144). The drug delivery device (100, 100’) also includes a logic device (136) configured to selectively control delivery of the electrical energy to the electronic device (138), whereby delivery of the electrical energy causes the electronic device (138) to deliver the drug (102) contained in the first reservoir (110).

 

US7053210B2

Efficient synthesis of pyropheophorbide a and its derivatives

Health Research, Inc.

5/30/2006

A process for the preparation of pyropheophorbide a and its derivatives, including 3-devinyl-3-(1'-hexyloxy)ethyl-pyropheophorbide-a, otherwise known as HPPH, is provided. The process involves treating chlorin e6, in the form of its trimethyl ester, with a base, followed by heating to give pyropheophorbide a, which is converted to HPPH by treatment with acid, followed by hexyl alcohol under basic conditions.

 

US7052268B2

Method and apparatus for manufacturing a device

Becton, Dickinson and Company

5/30/2006

A device, preferably a micro-device, is molded from a plastic material by injection molding, compression molding or embossing. A microabrader can be molded having microneedles for abrading the stratum corneum of the skin to form an abraded site in the tissue for enhancing drug delivery. The micro-device is molded using a mold assembly having a silicon molding surface. The silicon molding surface can include a recess corresponding to the desired shape and length of the microneedles. The silicon molding surface enables micron and submicron size features to be molded from polymeric materials without the polymeric material adhering to the mold surface. Micro-devices having molded features having micron and submicron dimensions can be rapidly produced without the use of a release agent.

 

US7051495B2

Method of packaging integrated biosensors

Lifescan Scotland Limited

5/30/2006

A method of loading medical devices into medical device packages utilizing an apparatus including a pusher plate, a retaining member, a transfer member and a package support member, the retaining member and the transfer member each includes a plurality of grooves for receiving and retaining the medical devices and the package support member includes a plurality of recesses for receiving and retaining the medical device packages, wherein the medical device packages are loaded into the package support member recesses, the medical devices are loaded into the retaining member grooves, every other medical devices are transferred from the retaining member to the transfer member by the pusher plate, the transfer member is urged into alignment with the package support member, the pusher plate inserts the medical devices in the transfer member into the packages in the package support member and the packages are removed from the apparatus for further processing.

 

US7051426B2

Method making a cutting disk into of a substrate

Hewlett Packard Development Company, L.P.

5/30/2006

The described embodiments relate to methods and systems of forming slots in a substrate. One exemplary embodiment forms a feature into a substrate having a first substrate surface and a second substrate surface, and moves a sand drill nozzle along the substrate to remove substrate material sufficient to form, in combination with said forming, a slot through the substrate.

 

US7048723B1

Surface micromachined microneedles

The University of Utah Research Foundation

5/23/2006

Surface micro-machined micro-needles (32) are formed as single needles (32) or in two-dimensional or three-dimensional micro-needle arrays (30). The micro-needles (32) are fabricated on a substrate (12) which can remain attached to the micro-needles (32) or can be subsequently removed. The two-dimensional or three-dimensional micro-needle arrays (30) can have cross-coupling flow channels (36) which allow for pressure equalization, and balance of fluid flow within the micro-needle arrays (30). Each of the micro-needles (32) has a micro-channel (36) therethrough that provides communication between at least one input port (37) at a proximal end of the micro-needles (32), and at least on output port (39) at an opposite distal end.

 

WO2006050810A1

SAMPLING SYSTEM FOR LIQUID SAMPLES

F. HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG | ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH

5/18/2006

The invention relates to a sampling system for liquid samples, comprising a support (12), a puncture element (14), arranged on the above and a semi-open channel (16), for the capillary transport of the liquid sample from the puncture element (14) to a collection point (18) on the support (12). According to the invention, a housing structure (20), for excess liquid sample escaping laterally from the channel (16), is provided.

 

EP1413923A3

Nano-imprinting stamp

Hewlett Packard Development Company, L.P.

5/17/2006

A micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 and method of making a micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 are disclosed. A micro-casting technique is used to form a foundation layer 11 and a plurality of nano-sized features 12 connected with the foundation layer 11. The foundation layer 11 and the nano-sized features 12 are unitary whole that is made entirely from a material comprising silicon carbide (SiC) which is harder than silicon (Si) alone. As a result, the micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 has a longer service lifetime because it can endure several imprinting cycles without wearing out or breaking. The longer service lifetime makes the micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 economically feasible to manufacture as the manufacturing cost can be recouped over the service lifetime.

 

US7047070B2

Valved intradermal delivery device and method of intradermally delivering a substance to a patient

Becton, Dickinson and Company

5/16/2006

An intradermal delivery device for delivery a substance into the skin of a patient has a fluid chamber for containing the substance, at least one micro skin penetrating member, and a valve controlling the flow of the substance from the fluid chamber to the micro skin penetrating member. An adhesive releasably attaches the device to the skin of the patient, the fluid chamber can be sized to hold a unit dose of the substance, and, in some embodiments, the fluid chamber can be releasably coupled to a housing of the device.

 

US7045069B2

Microfabrication method based on metal matrix composite technology

5/16/2006

A method of fabricating microstructural components, microparts assemblies and microparts is disclosed. The method includes fabricating a unidirectional metal matrix composite made of materials selected to allow precise etching of different structural elements of the given composite without damage to each other. Cutting a composite to form slices or sections. Etching a matrix entirely out will produce wide assortment of microparts. Partial removal of matrix will form an array of microprotrusions protruding from a substrate. Etching out the microprotrusions cores will form hollow microprotrusions. The method of invention is suitable for fabricating of variety of microcomponents. For example: microneedles--a medical microdevice component having micron features, arrays of high strength micropins and micropunches, and precisely controlled unique microstructural surfaces.

 

US20060100543A1

Integrated Analytical Test Element

5/11/2006

A lancet integrated test element (LIT) includes an incision forming member that has a cutting end configured to form an incision in tissue. A test element is attached to the incision forming member to test fluid from the incision. The test element has a sampling end with a sample opening through which the fluid is collected. The test element is bendable from a first state where the cutting end of the incision forming member is retracted from the sampling end of the test element to a second state where at least a portion of the cutting extends past the sampling end of the test element to form the incision in the tissue.

 

EP1654985A1

Sampling device for sample liquid

F. HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG | Roche Diagnostics GmbH

5/10/2006

Sampling system for liquid samples e.g. micro sampler for blood comprises carrier, puncture element, and semi-open channel whereby a housing structure is provided for excess liquid sample escaping laterally from the channel The sampling system comprises a carrier (12), a puncture element (14) arranged on the carrier and a semi-open channel (16). A housing structure (20) is provided for excess liquid sample escaping laterally from the channel. The housing structure is effective as capillary in a channel-lateral entry area for the sample liquid.-An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is also included for the blood analyzer.

 

US7041254B2

Kit for measuring analytes

Lifescan, Inc.

5/9/2006

Devices, systems, methods and kits are provided for use in determining the concentration of chemical and biochemical components in aqueous fluids. The subject devices include test strips which define a longitudinal axis and include a distal edge configured for insertion into a measurement instrument and having an alignment notch formed in the distal edge for engagement with an alignment member of the measurement instrument. The alignment notch has opposing edges wherein at least a portion of the opposing edges is in substantially parallel relation to the longitudinal axis. In using the subject devices, the devices are inserted into a measurement instrument having an alignment pin. When operatively engaged with the alignment pin, the notch serves to maintain the device in a substantially motionless position. The invention is useful in a variety of applications, particularly in the determination of blood glucose concentrations.

 

US7041068B2

Sampling module device and method

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

5/9/2006

A tissue penetration device and method of using same that may include a lancet module or sampling module. The sampling module may optionally be in a cartridge configuration and include sampling and analyzing functions, which may be integrated.

 

US7037499B1

Adjuvant for transcutaneous immunization

The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army

5/2/2006

A transcutaneous immunization system delivers antigen to immune cells without perforation of the skin, and induces an immune response in an animal or human. The system uses an adjuvant, preferably an ADP-ribosylating exotoxin, to induce an antigen-specific immune response (e.g., humoral and/or cellular effectors) after transcutaneous application of a formulation containing antigen and adjuvant to intact skin of the animal or human. The efficiency of immunization may be enhanced by adding hydrating agents (e.g., liposomes), penetration enhancers, or occlusive dressings to the transcutaneous delivery system. This system may allow activation of Langerhans cells in the skin, migration of the Langerhans cells to lymph nodes, and antigen presentation.

 

US7032302B1

Dry physiological recording device

Orbital Research Inc.

4/25/2006

The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidmermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

 

US7032301B1

Dry physiological recording electrode

Orbital Research Inc

4/25/2006

The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidmermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

 

US20060079810A1

Integrated lancing test strip with capillary transfer sheet

4/13/2006

An integrated bodily fluid sampling device includes a lancet, a test strip attached to the lancet, and a flexible sheet extending from the test strip. The lancet and the flexible sheet form a gap sized to draw bodily fluid onto the test strip via capillary action. Further, a sampling end portion of the flexible sheet is shaped to enhance capillary action of the sheet. In one form, a removable film covers the lancet and forms a seal with the flexible sheet such that the seal surrounds a lancet tip. In another form, an insulating layer covers a portion of the lancet to prevent electrical interference between the lancet and an electrical testing system on the test strip and ensure an accurate analysis of the bodily fluid.

 

US7025774B2

Tissue penetration device

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

4/11/2006

A tissue penetration device and method of using same. The tissue penetration device may optionally include sampling and analyzing functions, which may be integrated. An embodiment provides control of a lancet used for sampling blood. Electric field coils or solenoids may drive the lancet using electromagnetic force. Advancement and retraction of a lancet may be controlled by a feedback loop monitoring the position and velocity of the lancet embodiments of the lancet driver can be configured to follow a predetermined tissue lancing profile. Embodiments of the invention include a lancet and method for using a lancet to maintain the patency of the wound tract once the lancet has cut into the skin.

 

US20060074376A1

Solid solution perforator for drug delivery and other applications

TheraJect, Inc.

4/6/2006

A solid drug solution perforator (SSP) system and an associated drug reservoir are provided for delivering therapeutic, prophylactic and/or cosmetic compounds, for nutrient delivery and for drug targeting. For drug delivery, the SSP system includes an active drug ingredient and a matrix of perforator material that biodegrades or dissolves quickly upon contact with a patient's body. The SSP system provides a skin barrier perforator and a controller for prompt initiation and cut-off of drug delivery. In a preferred method of transdermal drug delivery, an SSP system containing a selected drug penetrates into an epidermis or dermis, and the drug is promptly released from the (dissolving) SSP system perforator. An additional drug is optionally delivered from a patch reservoir through skin pores created by insertion of the perforator. Formulation and fabrication procedures for the SSP and associated reservoir are also provided. An SSP system can be fabricated with variety of shapes and dimensions.

 

US20060074351A1

Integrated lance and strip for analyte measurement

4/6/2006

The present invention relates, in general, to lancing elements for use in drawing bodily fluids out of a patient and, more particularly, to an improved lancing element including first and second elements positioned relative to each other such that an incision formed by the first element is held open by the second element and bodily fluids are pulled up the lancing element by surface tension on the first and second lancing elements.

 

US7018418B2

Textured surface having undercut micro recesses in a surface

Tecomet, Inc.

3/28/2006

Textured surface having micro recesses such that the outer surface overhangs the micro recesses. Embodiments of the textured surface include sharp edges for promoting bone deposition and growth within the micro recesses, protrusions of varying depth from the surface that include overhangs, and micro recesses that are at least partially defined by complex ellipsoids.

 

US20060058727A1

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

MATTIOLI ENGINEERING LTD.

3/16/2006

A system for enhancing absorption of a substance provided on a region of a patient's skin, includes a probe configured to provide the substance to the region of the patient's skin. The probe includes an array of electrodes provided on a head of the probe. The probe also includes a substance holding unit that temporarily holds the substance to be provided on the region of the patient's skin. The probe further includes a pulse generator that generates a sequence of bursts of electrical pulses to the array of electrodes that are disposed against the region of the patient's skin, so as to provide the bursts of electrical pulses to the region of the patient's skin. The probe also includes a substance applying unit that transfers the substance from the substance holding unit to the head of the probe. The pulse generator provides for pulses to be output in alternate polarities in each of the sequence of bursts.

 

US7013179B2

Percutaneous electrode array

Biowave Corporation

3/14/2006

A percutaneous electrode array is disclosed for applying therapeutic electrical energy to a treatment site in the body of a patient. The array comprises a plurality of electrode microstructures which are inserted into the epidermis, thereby overcoming the inherent electrical impedance of the outer skin layers and obviating the need to prepare the skin surface prior to an electro-therapy treatment. The array preferably includes an adhesion layer to help keep the electrode microstructures inserted into the epidermis during the duration of the therapeutic treatment, and temperature and condition monitoring devices to ensure proper treatment and enhance patient safety.

 

WO2006025608A1

BODY FLUID FEEDER AND BODY FLUID INSPECTION SYSTEM

KABUSHIKI KAISYA ADVANCE

3/9/2006

A body fluid feeder and a body fluid inspection system for feeding and inspecting a body fluid. The body fluid feeder, particularly a blood feeder, is characterized by comprising a body fluid impregnating part capable of impregnating the body fluid therein by the contact thereof with the body fluid and a support part supporting the body fluid impregnating part and in that the body fluid impregnating part has such a shape and a size that can be stored in the body fluid inspection part of a body fluid inspection apparatus. The body fluid inspection system is characterized by comprising a blood organism measuring device optically measuring by operating a fluid while rotating a rotor, a standard tank installed on the measuring circumference of the blood organism measuring device and storing a standard substance, and a correction means measuring the dispersion of the optical path length of the standard tank by measuring the absorbancy of the standard substance stored in the standard tank beforehand and correcting

 

EP1632263A1

PROCESS FOR PRODUCING PAD BASE FOR TRANSDERMAL DRUG ADMINISTRATION, PAD BASE FOR TRANSDERMAL DRUG ADMINISTRATION AND NEEDLE

Medrx Co. Ltd.

3/8/2006

According to a conventional MicroPatch method, a drug is administrated by stinging the skin with a solid-core needle, and broadening a gap between the needle and the skin by vibration with a vibrator. Consequently, the object of the present invention is to provide a pad base for endermism capable of administrating a drug in the skin without vibration, and to provide a production process capable of easily obtaining the pad base. One side end of the thin metal wire is immersed in a solution containing a synthetic resin raw material in a lengthwise direction, the synthetic resin raw material solution adheres to a periphery of the thin metal wire, the synthetic resin raw material solution is hardened and then the thin metal wire is pulled out. There is obtained the minute needle 1 which is installed upright on the skin side of a patch base 2, wherein the minute needle is a hollow tubular body and the outer wall thereof is thickened toward the bottom. A drug in the hollow portion 3 of the minute needle 1 is inject

 

US7010343B2

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

Mattioli Engineering Ltd.

3/7/2006

A treatment system and method for enhancing absorption of substances provided on a surface of a patient's skin, includes applying a substance to the surface of the patient's skin by way of a probe that provides at least one of: i) electrical pulses to the skin surface, and ii) vibrational pulses to the skin surface, in order to cause absorption of the substance within the patient's skin. At the same that the substance is applied to the skin, a gauze pad is provided between the probe and the patient's skin. The gauze pad allows for the probe to be moved over the surface of the patient's skin with less friction than if no gauze pad is used, in order to obtain easier movement of the probe with respect to the skin, and to obtain a more even application of the substance to the skin.

 

Dermal and Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems: Current and Future Prospects.      Brown, Marc; Martin, Gary; Jones, Stuart; Akomeah, Franklin.    Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division,  King's College London and MedPharm Ltd.,  London,  UK.    Drug Delivery  (2006),  13(3),  175-187.  Publisher: Taylor & Francis, Inc.,  CODEN: DDELEB  ISSN: 1071-7544.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 144:357196    AN 2006:274793    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A review.  The protective function of human skin imposes physicochem. limitations to the type of permeant that can traverse the barrier.  For a drug to be delivered passively via the skin it needs to have adequate lipophilicity and also a mol. wt. 500 Da.  In contrast active methods that normally involve phys. or mech. methods of enhancing delivery were shown to be generally superior.  Improved delivery was shown for drugs of differing lipophilicity and mol. wt. including proteins, peptides, and oligonucleotides using elec. methods (iontophoresis, electroporation), mech. (abrasion, ablation, perforation), and other energy-related techniques such as ultrasound and needless injection.  However, for these novel delivery methods to succeed and compete with those already on the market, the prime issues that require consideration include device design and safety, efficacy, ease of handling, and cost-effectiveness.  This article provides a detailed review of the next generation of active delivery technologies.

 

Patterning polycrystalline aluminum by electropolishing at low voltages.      Zhao, Guang-Yu; Xu, Cai-Ling; Guo, Dao-Jun; Li, Hua; Li, Hu-Lin.    College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering,  Lanzhou University,  Lanzhou,  Peop. Rep. China.    Journal of Solid State Electrochemistry  (2006),  10(5),  266-269.  Publisher: Springer GmbH,  CODEN: JSSEFS  ISSN: 1432-8488.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 145:197605    AN 2006:229259    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Highly ordered stripes with controllable spacing of the pattern lines were obtained during electropolishing aluminum (Al) foils at low voltage.  The samples were studied in detail with the at. force microscope (AFM).  Stripes with similar spacing of the pattern lines are obsd. on the surface of Al sheets which are electropolished in the same electrolyte at various voltages.  However, the spacing of the pattern lines is closer when there is more ethanol in the electrolyte at the same voltage.  The formation mechanism of stripes with dissimilar spacing of the pattern lines in different electrolyte is discussed.  Probably the spacing of the pattern lines depends on the concn. of the polar mols. (ethanol) in the electrolyte.

 

WO2006022965A1

NEEDLELESS MICROPROTRUSION ELASTOPLAST SYSTEM

ALLERGAN, INC.

3/2/2006

A needleless microprotrusion system for infusion of a medicament into a patient includes a plurality of microprotrus ions having a length sufficient to penetrate a stratum corneum of the patient. A chemodenervating agent is disposed in a microprotrus ions in a substrate is provided for supporting the microprotrusion and conforming the microprotrusions to a selected patient body part in order to enable uniform penetration of the microprotrusions into the corneum.

 

WO2006021361A2

MICROFLUID SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRODUCTION THEREOF

F. HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG | ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH

3/2/2006

The invention relates to a microfluid system, comprising a support body (12), provided with a puncture device (14) and a semi-open microchannel (16), arranged thereon, for the capillary transport of a sample fluid from a taking position to a target position (22,24). According to the invention, a higher aspect ratio may be achieved, whereby the support body (12) is coated with an applied layer (18) which laterally defines the microchannel (16), at least in the upper region.

 

US7004928B2

Autonomous, ambulatory analyte monitor or drug delivery device

Rosedale Medical, Inc.

2/28/2006

The invention relates to analyte monitoring/drug (pharmaceutical agent) delivery device. The invention is suited for monitoring various blood constituents such as glucose. The device has a housing that at least partially encloses a plurality of microneedles disposed on a carrier and an electronics portion. Each microneedle is in fluid communication with a corresponding microchannel. Each microneedle is individually addressable. That is, each microneedle can be extended and retracted individually via an actuator. The electronics portion includes a processor and associated circuitry (e.g., memory, supporting electronics and the like), a motor or the like, a sensor, a power supply (e.g., battery) and optionally an interface. In general, the processor controls the operation of the device and is data communication with the actuator, motor, sensor and interface. The invention provides for autonomous operation, that is, without intervention of the user. The invention can optionally provide for calibration without in

 

WO2006018642A1

METHOD OF PRODUCING A MICRONEEDLE OR MICROIMPLANT

FUNCTIONAL MICROSTRUCTURES LIMITED

2/23/2006

A method of manufacturing microneedles is provided, the method comprising (i) depositing a substance onto a first surface and (ii) forming a solid needle-like shape from the substance. The substance may be deposited in non-solid form and subsequently solidified. A method of providing an array of such microneedles is also described.

 

WO2006013099A1

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTING BODILY FLUID UTILIZING A FLAT LANCET

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F.HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG

2/9/2006

A bodily fluid sampling device is operable to rupture the skin surface at normal and oblique angles utilizing a flat lancet of specified thickness and at least one cutting surface inclined less than eighty degrees (80°) from the longitudinal axis of the flat lancet. The flat lancet thickness and cutting surface geometry minimize pain while maximizing the amount of emerged bodily fluid. The device limits the depth to which the flat lancet penetrates the skin to further minimize pain and may urge the bodily fluid from the rupture site. The bodily fluid emerging from the rupture site is transported to a test device that tests the bodily fluid for particular properties and characteristics.

 

US20060030789A1

Integrated lance and strip for analyte measurement

2/9/2006

The present invention relates, in general, to lancing elements for use in drawing bodily fluids out of a patient and, more particularly, to an improved lancing element including first and second elements positioned relative to each other such that an incision formed by the first element is held open by the second element and bodily fluids are pulled up the lancing element by surface tension on the first and second lancing elements.

 

US6994825B2

Analyte measurement kit

Lifescan, Inc.

2/7/2006

Devices, systems, methods and kits are provided for use in determining the concentration of chemical and biochemical components in aqueous fluids. The subject devices include test strips which define a longitudinal axis and include a distal edge configured for insertion into a measurement instrument and having an alignment notch formed in the distal edge for engagement with an alignment member of the measurement instrument. The alignment notch has opposing edges wherein at least a portion of the opposing edges is in substantially parallel relation to the longitudinal axis. In using the subject devices, the devices are inserted into a measurement instrument having an alignment pin. When operatively engaged with the alignment pin, the notch serves to maintain the device in a substantially motionless position. The invention is useful in a variety of applications, particularly in the determination of blood glucose concentrations.

 

US6990367B2

Percutaneous biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

Lifescan, INC

1/24/2006

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one electrochemical cell having an inner electrode and an outer electrode in a concentrically-spaced relationship. In a preferred embodiment, the outer electrode has a cylindrical configuration having an open distal end and the inner electrode has an elongated configuration positioned co-axially within the outer electrode and a distal end configured to penetrate the skin. The spacing between the electrodes exerts a capillary force on biological fluid present at the open distal end of the outer electrode. A system is also provided which includes a control unit in electrical communication with the electrochemical cell for controlling the selection and measurement of the target constituent. Methods of sampling of biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices and/or systems

 

EP1616551A1

Cosmetic treatment for preventing or delaying the signs of skin ageing

L'ORЙAL

1/18/2006

Use of a transdermal delivery system comprising a composition containing a non-indispensable micronutrient for the treatment-, prevention-, retardation-and/or limitation of signs of ageing of skin, mucous membranes or appendages Cosmetic treatment, prevention, retardation and/or limitation of the signs of ageing of skin, mucous membranes or appendages, comprises applying a transdermal delivery system (A) comprising a composition (C) containing a non-indispensable micronutrient (I) to the skin, mucous membranes or scalp.-An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is also included for (A) in the form of patch (controlled release patches, reservoir system, magnetic field effect patches, gel patches with a base of hydrocolloid, oily gel patches and composite films of reservoir type) comprising theaflavine (0. 001-10 g/cm3 of (C)).-ACTIVITY-Dermatological.-MECHANISM OF ACTION-None given.

 

EP1612143A1

Apparatus for the packaging of medical devices including integrated lancets

Lifescan Scotland Ltd

1/4/2006

The present invention related to an apparatus for loading a plurality of integrated medical devices into a plurality of medical device packages, said apparatus comprising a pusher plate, a medical device retaining member, a transfer member and a package support member, wherein said device retaining member and said transfer member include a plurality of grooves for receiving and removably retaining a plurality of medical devices at least partially therein, and wherein said package support member includes a plurality of recesses for receiving and removably retaining the plurality of medical device packages therein.

 

EP1612142A1

Method for the packaging of medical devices, in particular integrated biosensors

Lifescan Scotland Ltd

1/4/2006

The present invention relates to a method of loading a plurality of medical devices into a plurality of medical device packages, said method comprising providing an apparatus including a pusher plate, a medical device retaining member, a transfer member and a package support member, wherein said device retaining member and said transfer member include a plurality of grooves for receiving and removably retaining a plurality of medical devices and wherein said package support member includes a plurality of recesses for receiving and removably retaining said plurality of medical device packages therein, loading a plurality of packages into said package support member recesses, loading a plurality of integrated medical devices into the retaining member grooves, transferring said plurality of integrated medical devices from said retaining member to said transfer member, urging the transfer member into alignment with said package support member, inserting said plurality of integrated medical devices in said transfe

 

EP1611849A1

Method of manufacturing integrated biosensors

LifeScan, Inc.

1/4/2006

The determination of analyte concentration in physiological samples is of ever increasing importance to today's society. Such assays find use in a variety of applications, including clinical laboratory testing, home testing, etc., where the results of such testing play a prominent role in the diagnosis and management of a variety of disease conditions. In the present application, a method is described which may be used for the manufacture of medical devices which include an integrated lancet and sensor.

 

EP1611842A1

Apparatus for the manufacture of medical devices

LifeScan, Inc.

1/4/2006

The determination of analyte concentration in physiological samples is of ever increasing importance to today's society. Such assays find use in a variety of applications, including clinical laboratory testing, home testing, etc., where the results of such testing play a prominent role in the diagnosis and management of a variety of disease conditions. An apparatus is described herein which may be used for the manufacture of medical devices which include an integrated lancet (220) and sensor (204).

 

WO2005123172A1

DEVICE FOR TARGETED DELIVERY OF MEDICINAL, COSMETIC, AND RELATED AGENTS

HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.

12/29/2005

A device (200) for delivering at least one formulation to a targeted location on epidermal tissue (254, 610) in which the position on the epidermal tissue (254, 610) is located and a quantity of at least one formulation is ejected from at least one electronically controllable fluid delivery device (216, 218) into contact with the epidermal tissue (254, 610). The formulation delivered includes at least one cosmetic material.

 

US20050284110A1

Method of packaging integrated biosensors

12/29/2005

The present invention relates to a method of loading a plurality of medical devices into a plurality of medical device packages, said method comprising providing an apparatus including a pusher plate, a medical device retaining member, a transfer member and a package support member, wherein said device retaining member and said transfer member include a plurality of grooves for receiving and removably retaining a plurality of medical devices and wherein said package support member includes a plurality of recesses for receiving and removably retaining said plurality of medical device packages therein, loading a plurality of packages into said package support member recesses, loading a plurality of integrated medical devices into the retaining member grooves, transferring said plurality of integrated medical devices from said retaining member to said transfer member, urging the transfer member into alignment with said package support member, inserting said plurality of integrated medical devices in said transfe

 

US6980855B2

Microneedles for minimally invasive drug delivery

Hospira, Inc.

12/27/2005

The present invention provides a microneedle incorporating a base that is broad relative to a height of the microneedle, to minimize breakage. The microneedle further includes a fluid channel and a beveled non-coring tip. Preferably arrays of such microneedles are fabricated utilizing conventional semiconductor derived micro-scale fabrication techniques. A dot pattern mask is formed on an upper surface of a silicon substrate, with each orifice of the dot pattern mask corresponding to a desired location of a microneedle. Orifices are formed that pass completely through the substrate by etching. A nitride pattern mask is formed to mask all areas in which a nitride layer is not desired. A nitride layer is then deposited on the bottom of the silicon substrate, on the walls of the orifice, and on the top of the silicon substrate around the periphery of the orifice. The nitride layer around the periphery of the orifice is offset somewhat, such that one side of the orifice has a larger nitride layer. Anisotropic etc

 

US6980854B2

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery of lidocaine and/or other drugs

Mattioli Engineering Ltd.

12/27/2005

A treatment method for delivery of lidocaine or other type of skin treatment drug to a patient's skin, includes applying electrical bursts of pulses onto the patient's skin by way of electrodes provided on a head of a probe that is placed against the patient's skin. The treatment method also includes applying mechanical vibrations of a same frequency and phase as the bursts of pulses onto the patient's skin by way of a vibrating element provided on the head of the probe. At the same time as the above two steps are being performed, the treatment method includes providing, between the electrodes and the patient's skin, at least two solution-absorbing pads electrically insulated from each other and each one of the two solution-absorbing pads being in electrical contact with one or more of the electrodes on the head of the probe. At least one of the two solution-absorbing pads is soaked with lidocaine or other type of skin treatment drug and the other of the two solution-absorbing pads is soaked with a conductive

 

US20050273046A1

Transdermal delivery of therapeutic agent

12/8/2005

A device for the transdermal delivery of a therapeutic agent to a biological subject that includes a first electrode comprising a first array of electrically conductive microprojections for providing electrical communication through a skin portion of the subject to a second electrode comprising a second array of electrically conductive microprojections. Additionally, a reservoir for holding the therapeutic agent surrounding the first electrode and a pulse generator for providing an exponential decay pulse between the first and second electrodes may be provided. A method includes the steps of piercing a stratum corneum layer of skin with two arrays of conductive microprojections, encapsulating the therapeutic agent into biocompatible charged carriers, surrounding the conductive microprojections with the therapeutic agent, generating an exponential decay pulse between the two arrays of conductive microprojections to create a non-uniform electrical field and electrokinetically driving the therapeutic agent throu

 

WO2005113374A2

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IN-VIVO SAMPLING

GIVEN IMAGING LTD.

12/1/2005

A device, system and method for in-vivo sampling. An in-vivo device and method for use thereof may include a sampling chamber and a gating mechanism. The sampling chamber may store a sample of a body lumen substance, and the gate may close and open an opening of the sampling chamber.

 

US20050266680A1

Methods of fabricating complex blade geometries from silicon wafers and strengthening blade geometries

12/1/2005

Ophthalmic surgical blades are manufactured from either a single crystal or poly-crystalline material, preferably in the form of a wafer. The method comprises preparing the single crystal or poly-crystalline wafers by mounting them and etching trenches into the wafers using one of several processes. Methods for machining the trenches, which form the bevel blade surfaces, include a diamond blade saw, laser system, ultrasonic machine, a hot forge press and a router. Other processes include wet etching (isotropic and anisotropic) and dry etching (isotropic and anisotropic, including reactive ion etching), and combinations of these etching steps. The wafers are then placed in an etchant solution which isotropically etches the wafers in a uniform manner, such that layers of crystalline or poly-crystalline material are removed uniformly, producing single, double or multiple bevel blades. Nearly any angle can be machined into the wafer, and the machined angle remains after etching. The resulting radii of the blade e

 

US20050256448A1

Needleless injector

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

11/17/2005

An injector includes a housing having a chamber for holding a liquid formulation of an active principle to be injected into a biological body and an output port in fluid communication with the chamber through which the liquid formulation is injected. A piston is positioned within the housing, and includes an end portion with substantially the same shape as the chamber. A magnetic force draws the piston and housing together to expel the liquid formulation out of the chamber through the output port.

 

US20050255601A1

Blood coagulation test cartridge, system, and method

Medronic

11/17/2005

A system and method for determining a coagulation time, e.g. , thrombin time, PT, aPTT, and ACT, of a blood sample deposited in a test cartridge is disclosed. The test cartridge comprises a blood receptacle that is open to the atmosphere into which a blood sample is to be deposited, a vacuum port that is open to atmosphere, and a spiral capillary within the test cartridge having a capillary length and cross-section area, a first capillary end of the spiral capillary open to the blood receptacle and a second capillary end of the spiral capillary open to the vacuum port, whereby the spiral capillary is closed to atmosphere. When a blood sample is deposited in the blood receptacle, a vacuum is drawn through the vacuum port and the blood is drawn through the spiral capillary until coagulation occurs. A pressure change is detected, and the coagulation time is measured.

 

US20050251064A1

Integrated disposable for automatic or manual blood dosing

11/10/2005

An integrated sampling device defines a first opening and a second opening. The first opening is connected to a channel for drawing fluid automatically towards a test media upon incision by an incision portion. The second opening is positioned over the test media allowing manual sampling of fluid if the channel fails to draw a sufficient amount of fluid onto the test media.

 

EP1244495B1

METHOD OF FORMING VERTICAL, HOLLOW NEEDLES WITHIN A SEMICONDUCTOR SUBSTRATE

The Regents of the University, of California

11/9/2005

A method of forming a needle includes the step of anisotropically etching a channel into the back side of a semiconductor substrate. The front side of the semiconductor substrate is then isotropically etched to form a vertical axial surface surrounding the channel. The resultant needle has an elongated body formed of a semiconductor material. The elongated body includes an axial surface positioned between a first end and a second end. The axial surface defines a channel between the first end and the second end. In one embodiment, the first end has a sloping tip with a single circumferential termination point.

 

US6962772B2

Method for manufacturing 3-D high aspect-ratio microneedle array device

Industrial Technology Research Inst.

11/8/2005

A method for manufacturing a 3-D high aspect-ratio microneedle array device, comprising steps of: providing a substrate, with a photoresist layer coated thereon; performing photolithography on the photoresist layer by using a gray-tone mask so as to form a patterned photoresist layer; performing high-selectivity etching on the patterned photoresist layer and the substrate by using inductively coupled plasma etching so as to transfer the pattern onto the substrate and form a structure; applying a material on the structure; and de-molding the structure from the substrate.

 

WO2005101994A2

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING SENSOR GUARD FOR DATA MONITORING AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

THERASENSE, INC.

11/3/2005

Method and apparatus for providing sensor guard for data monitoring and detection system having a sensor for detecting one or more glucose levels, the sensor including a work electrode disposed on a base material, a reference electrode disposed on the base material, and a guard electrode disposed on the base material, where the guard electrode is maintained substantially at equipotential to the work electrode, and a transmitter operatively coupled to the work electrode and the reference electrode of the sensor for receiving said detected glucose levels, where the transmitter is further configured to transmit a respective signal corresponding to each of the detected glucose levels using a data transmission protocol including wireless data transmission protocols, to a receiver which is configured to receive the transmitted signals corresponding to said detected glucose levels is provided. The method and apparatus may also include insulin administration unit such as an insulin pump configured to be in data commu

 

WO2005065545A3

BLOOD ANALYSIS DEVICE FOR DETERMINING AN ANALYTE

PAUL HARTMANN AG

10/27/2005

The invention relates to a blood analysis device (2) comprising a housing body (4), a blood withdrawal device (8) comprising a plurality of pricking elements (10), a plurality of testing means (14) which are used to analyse a minimal amount of blood, an evaluation device comprising an electronic evaluation system and a display device (6), which together form one complete hand-held system which is embodied as a single device. The housing body (4) can be arranged in a pricking position (12) corresponding to an operational position (30) of a respective pricking element (10) which is applied to the surface of the skin of a user. A plurality of testing means (14) and pricking elements (10) can be introduced into the device and can be arranged in a successive manner in an operational position (30) in order to carry out several measurements. When a pricking element (10) is positioned in an operational position (30), the pricking element can be inserted into the surface of the skin of a user in a pricking position (1

 

US6958132B2

Systems and methods for optical actuation of microfluidics based on opto-electrowetting

The Regents of the University of California

10/25/2005

The invention is related to methods and apparatus that manipulate droplets in a microfluidic environment. Advantageously, embodiments of the invention manipulate droplets by controlling the electro-wetting characteristics of a surface with light, thereby inducing a gradient in the surface tension of a droplet. The gradient in the surface tension propels the droplet by capillary force. A variety of operations, such as transporting, joining, cutting, and creating can be performed. Advantageously, embodiments of the invention obviate the need to create a relatively large and complex control electrode array. A plurality of photoconductive cells or a layer of a photoconductive material selectively couples an electrode carrying an electrical bias to otherwise floating conductive cells in response to a beam of light. The electrical bias applied to the conductive cell generates a localized electric field, which can change the contact angle of the droplet, thereby permitting the droplet to be propelled.

 

WO2005096941A1

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TAKING BODY FLUID

F. HOFFMANN LA ROCHE AG | ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH

10/20/2005

The invention relates to a method and a system for taking blood. According to the invention, a body part (16) is rested against a support (14), pressure is applied to said body part (16) by means of a pressure piece (20) that is moved relative to the support (14), and a puncturing member (22) is inserted into the body part (16). In order to prevent blood from being openly discharged from the puncture wound, the pressure applied by the pressure piece (20) on the body part (16) is lowered in the final phase of taking blood.

 

WO2005084534A8

PERSONAL DIAGNOSTIC DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS

10/20/2005

Personal diagnostic devices including diagnostic patches (bio-patches) and interactive medical bracelets (bio-bracelets) are provided with a skin/patch interface, at least one analysis layer, a signal processing layer, and a user output interface. Embodiments of the interactive diagnostic devices may include micro-fluidic circuits with reaction chambers, analysis chambers, mixing chambers, and various pre-disposed chemistries or reagents for performing a wide verity of tests by trans-dermal transport of blood or perspiration. Sample collection chambers for the fluidic circuit may include minimally invasive tubules that penetrate the skin surface to acquire blood samples from capillaries near the epidermis. Alternate implementations of the personal diagnostic device may be equipped with logic processing, input/output devices, acoustic microphones, cryogenic circuits, embedded processors, electrical control circuitry, and battery current sources or photovoltaic sources of electrical power.

 

US20050234494A1

Cap displacement mechanism for lancing device and multi-lancet cartridge

10/20/2005

A medical lancing device including a replaceable multi-lancet cartridge. The lancing device includes an advancing mechanism that advances lancets within the cartridge into an active position, separates a protective cap from the active lancet, and energize a drive mechanism of the lancing device. A cap displacement mechanism moves the separated cap out of the travel path of the active lancet. In a first example embodiment, the cap displacement mechanism includes a cantilevered spring arm that displaces the detached cap of the active lancet. In a second example embodiment, the cap displacement mechanism includes a spring-biased cam-driven plunger 232 that displaces the detached cap of the active lancet. Then an activation mechanism releases the energized active lancet to traverse the unobstructed lancing stroke path to pierce the subject's skin at a desired lancing site.

 

US20050233466A1

Blood coagulation test cartridge, system, and method

10/20/2005

A system and method for determining a coagulation time, e.g. , TT, PT, aPTT, and ACT, of a blood test sample deposited in a test cartridge is disclosed. A cartridge housing having upper and lower major sides and a minor sidewall encloses a test chamber having a test chamber pivot element and is provided with a cartridge port for introducing a test sample into the test chamber,. Ferromagnetic agitator vane leaflets extend from an agitator pivot element supported by the test chamber pivot element intermediate the upper and lower major sides for rotational motion. The agitator vane leaflets can be swept, in response to an external magnetic field, through the test sample in the absence of coagulation. A timer is started when the agitator movement is commenced whereupon the agitator moves freely. Resistance to agitator movement due to coagulation is detected, and the coagulation time is measured.

 

US20050233460A1

Blood coagulation test cartridge, system, and method

10/20/2005

A system and method for determining a coagulation time, e.g. , TT, PT, aPTT, and ACT, of a test sample deposited in a test cartridge is disclosed. A cartridge housing having upper and lower major sides and a minor sidewall encloses a test chamber having a test chamber pivot element and is provided with a cartridge port for introducing a test sample into the test chamber,. Ferromagnetic agitator vane leaflets extend from an agitator pivot element supported by the test chamber pivot element intermediate the upper and lower major sides for rotational motion. The agitator vane leaflets can be swept, in response to an external magnetic field, through the test sample in the absence of coagulation. A timer is started when the agitator movement is commenced whereupon the agitator moves freely. Resistance to agitator movement due to coagulation is detected, and the coagulation time is measured.

 

US20050229722A1

Capillary fill test device

10/20/2005

A device for receiving a sample of liquid, such as a sample of bodily liquid which is to be subjected to further analysis, may include a body having at least a major surface and a minor surface. A sample-receiving chamber may be located in the body and may have an inlet end which opens into the major and minor surfaces of the body. A conduit may be located in the body, extending from the outlet end of the chamber, and may be arranged so as to allow the liquid to pass from the outlet end into the conduit by capillary action.

 

DE102004010529A1

Analysehandgerдt

Roche Diagnostics GmbH

9/22/2005

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Analysehandgerдt zum Untersuchen einer Probe, insbesondere einer biologischen Flьssigkeit, auf einen medizinisch bedeutsamen Bestandteil, umfassend einen Analysesensor (15), dem auf einem Fцrderweg ein analytisches Verbrauchsmittel (9) anfьhrbar ist, eine Anzeigeeinrichtung (3), ein Gehдuse (4), das eine Gehдuseцffnung (10) fьr ein analytisches Verbrauchsmittel (8) aufweist, an die der Fцrderweg anschlieЯt. ErfindungsgemдЯ ist vorgesehen, daЯ das Analysehandgerдt eine antreibbare Fцrderwalze (16, 18) hat, mit der ein in den Fцrderweg ragendes Verbrauchsmittel (9) gegriffen und entlang des Fцrderwegs bewegt werden kann.

 

US6946362B2

Method and apparatus for forming high surface area material films and membranes

Hewlett Packard Development Company, L.P.

9/20/2005

The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for producing high surface area material films and membranes on substrates. In one application, patterns of spikes or bristles are produced on wafers and transferred to films, such as conductive polymer or metal films, by using repetitive and inexpensive processes, such as electroplating and embossing. Such a technique provides low cost, high surface area materials and allows reuse of expensive patterned silicon. Membranes with high surface area are extremely valuable in fuel cells since the power density is generally proportional to the surface area and the patterns may be used to cast inexpensive fuel cell electrodes.

 

US6946067B2

Method of forming an electrical connection between an electrochemical cell and a meter

LifeScan, Inc.

9/20/2005

A method of forming an electrical connection between an electrochemical cell and a meter is provided. According to the method, an electrical connection is made between a meter, by means of a wedge-shaped connector with upper and lower conductive surfaces, and an electrochemical cell comprising a first substrate with a first electrically conductive coating and a second substrate with a second electrically conductive coating, the electrically conductive coatings being disposed to face each other in a spaced apart relationship by an insulating spacer. The meter further includes a pivot point for rotating the wedge connector on the pivot point.

 

US6945952B2

Solid solution perforator for drug delivery and other applications

TheraJect, Inc.

9/20/2005

A solid drug solution perforator (SSP) system and an associated drug reservoir are provided for delivering therapeutic, prophylactic and/or cosmetic compounds, for nutrient delivery and for drug targeting. For drug delivery, the SSP system includes an active drug ingredient and a matrix of perforator material that biodegrades or dissolves quickly upon contact with a patient's body. The SSP system provides a skin barrier perforator and a controller for prompt initiation and cut-off drug delivery. In a preferred method of transdermal drug delivery, an SSP system containing a selected drug penetrates into an epidermis or dermis, and the drug is promptly released from the (dissolving) SSP system perforator. An additional drug is optionally delivered from a patch reservoir through skin pores created by insertion of the perforator. Formulation and fabrication procedures for the SSP and associated reservoir are also provided. An SSP system can be fabricated with variety of shapes and dimensions.

 

WO2005084534A1

PERSONAL DIAGNOSTIC DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS

LIFE PATCH INTERNATIONAL, INC.

9/15/2005

Personal diagnostic devices including diagnostic patches (bio-patches) and interactive medical bracelets (bio-bracelets) are provided with a skin/patch interface, at least one analysis layer, a signal processing layer, and a user output interface. Embodiments of the interactive diagnostic devices may include micro-fluidic circuits with reaction chambers, analysis chambers, mixing chambers, and various pre-disposed chemistries or reagents for performing a wide verity of tests by trans-dermal transport of blood or perspiration. Sample collection chambers for the fluidic circuit may include minimally invasive tubules that penetrate the skin surface to acquire blood samples from capillaries near the epidermis. Alternate implementations of the personal diagnostic device may be equipped with logic processing, input/output devices, acoustic microphones, cryogenic circuits, embedded processors, electrical control circuitry, and battery current sources or photovoltaic sources of electrical power.

 

WO2005082596A1

METHOD OF MOLDING FOR MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY

9/9/2005

A method of manufacturing a moldable microneedle array (54) is described comprising providing a negative mold insert (44) characterized by a negative image of microneedle topography wherein at least one negative image of a microneedle is characterized by an aspect ratio of between about 2 to 1 and about 5 to 1. The negative mold insert (44) is used to define a structured surface of a negative mold cavity (42). Molten plastic material is injected into the heated negative mold cavity. The molten plastic material is subsequently cooled and detached from the mold insert to provide a molded microneedle array (54). One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue through the skin.

 

Fast Fourier transform analysis of pore pattern in anodized alumina formed at various conditions.      Rao, Yeswanth L.; Anandan, Venkataramani; Zhang, Guigen.    Micro/Nano Bioengineering, Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering,  University of Georgia,  Athens,  GA,  USA.    Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology  (2005),  5(12),  2070-2075.  Publisher: American Scientific Publishers,  CODEN: JNNOAR  ISSN: 1533-4880.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 145:87823    AN 2005:1314909    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A quant. investigation of the effect of process parameters such as electrolyte concn., temp., anodization duration and anodization potential on the pore pattern (including pore diam. and distribution) in anodic alumina was performed based on aluminum anodization expts.  Using fast Fourier transform (FFT) anal., we developed a method to quantify the orderedness of pore distribution.  We found that at a lower temp. the anodization protocol of a 1 h first step followed by a 4 h second step did not cause any change in pore orderedness as opposed to the anodization protocol of a 12 h first step followed by a 1 h second step, but at a higher temp. the former improved the pore orderedness.  Increasing the electrolyte concn., improved the pore orderedness.  Varying the electrolyte concn., temp., and anodization duration did not have any effect on the pore diam.  Increasing the anodization potential, however, not only improved the pore orderedness but also increased the pore diam.  Linear relationships exist between the pore diam. and anodization potential and between the center to center pore spacing and applied anodization potential.

 

WO2005082593A1

METHOD OF MAKING MICRONEEDLES

AVERY DENNISON CORPORATION

9/9/2005

A method of making a microneedle array structure (20) comprising a plurality of simultaneously formed microneedles (24), each microneedle (24) having a protrusion (32) and a passageway (34) extending therethrough. The method comprises the steps of pressing an embossable sheet material between a complimentary tools and radiantly heating the sheet material using radiant energy from a radiant energy source. One tool is relatively-radiantly-transparent, and another tool and/or the sheet material is relatively-radiantly-absorptive.

 

US20050196748A1

Method and device for monitoring platelet function

PlaCor, Inc.

9/8/2005

The invention provides a method of monitoring platelet function in a mammal by passing blood removed from the body of the mammal through a passageway to contact an obstruction or irregularity in the passageway to generate a platelet mass in the passageway, and monitoring the flow or composition of the blood in the passageway to detect the platelet mass. The flow and composition change in response to the formation of a platelet mass in the passageway. Devices, articles, and kits for performing the methods are also disclosed.

 

US6939311B2

Diagnostic article

Siemens Aktiengesellschaft

9/6/2005

A diagnostic article, in particular for medical applications, includes a microneedle array and a holding device supporting the microneedle array. The holding device is designed as a glove. The diagnostic article further includes a data recording device connected to the microneedle array, a data evaluation device connected to the data recording device, and a display device arranged on the holding device and connected to the data evaluation device.

 

US20050188548A1

Silicon blades for surgical and non-surgical use

9/1/2005

Ophthalmic surgical blades are manufactured from either a crystalline or polycrystalline material, preferably in the form of a wafer. The method comprises preparing the crystalline or polycrystalline wafers by mounting them and machining trenches into the wafers. Methods for machining the trenches, which form the bevel blade surfaces, include a diamond blade saw, laser system, ultrasonic machine, a hot forge press and a router. The wafers are then placed in an etchant solution which isotropically etches the wafers in a uniform manner, such that layers of crystalline or polycrystalline material are removed uniformly, producing single, double or multiple bevel blades. Nearly any bevel angle can be machined into the wafer which remains after etching. The resulting radii of the blade edges is 5-500 nm, which is the same caliber as a diamond edged blade, but manufactured at a fraction of the cost. The ophthalmic surgical blades can be used for cataract and refractive surgical procedures, as well as microsurgical,

 

EP1566146A1

Devices for extracting bodily fluids

LifeScan, Inc.

8/24/2005

A bodily fluid extraction device includes a penetration member configured for penetrating a target site and subsequently residing within the target site and extracting a bodily fluid sample. The penetration member includes a proximal end adapted for fluid communication with an analyte analysis system, a distal end, and a channel extending from the distal to the proximal end. The distal end includes a sharp portion for penetrating a target site, and a flexible feature adapted for promoting bodily fluid flow into the channel by protruding into the target site after the penetration member has penetrated the target site. A method for extracting bodily fluid includes providing a bodily fluid extraction device as described immediately above. Subsequently, a target site is penetrated with the distal end of the bodily fluid extraction device's penetration member and the flexible portion of the penetration member is caused to protrude into the target site and promote bodily fluid flow into the penetration member's cha

 

EP1355697A4

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR FLUID DELIVERY USING ELECTROACTIVE NEEDLES AND IMPLANTABLE ELECTROCHEMICAL DELIVERY DEVICES

8/10/2005

 

US6924093B2

Analyte measurement device and method of use

Lifescan, Inc.

8/2/2005

Devices, systems, methods and kits are provided for use in determining the concentration of chemical and biochemical components in aqueous fluids. The subject devices include test strips which define a longitudinal axis and include a distal edge configured for insertion into a measurement instrument and having an alignment notch formed in the distal edge for engagement with an alignment member of the measurement instrument. The alignment notch has opposing edges wherein at least a portion of the opposing edges is in substantially parallel relation to the longitudinal axis. In using the subject devices, the devices are inserted into a measurement instrument having an alignment pin. When operatively engaged with the alignment pin, the notch serves to maintain the device in a substantially motionless position. The invention is useful in a variety of applications, particularly in the determination of blood glucose concentrations.

 

US6923764B2

Analyte monitor

Rosedale Medical, Inc.

8/2/2005

Provided is an analyte monitoring device having a housing, the device comprising: a plurality of needles, each having a tip, a retracted position, a position wherein the tip is extended from the housing a distance adapted to pierce skin; an electrically or spring powered needle pushing apparatus movable to separately engage each of the needles to move each from the retracted position to the extended position; an energy source located within the housing; a plurality of analysis sites comprising an analysis preparation, each adapted to receive liquid from the needles to wet the analysis preparation; one or more light sources adapted to direct light at the analysis sites; one or more light detectors adapted to receive light from the analysis sites; and a processor.

 

WO2005067797A1

ANALYSIS APPLIANCE FOR ANALYSIS OF BLOOD SAMPLES

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

7/28/2005

The invention relates to an analysis appliance for analysis of blood samples, and to a user identification method integrated in the analysis appliance. The analysis appliance comprises a sampling device for taking blood samples, and an analysis device. A delivery device is also provided for transferring the blood samples from the sampling device to the analysis device, wherein the operating parameters concerning sampling, transfer of the sample to the analysis device, and analysis of the sample, can be adapted to the respective user. The operating parameters can be adapted by automatic, spontaneous execution of an automatically determined number of test measurements.

 

WO2004110717A3

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING PERFORATED MICROSTRUCTURES BY USING FLUIDIC JETS

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY

7/28/2005

A method is provided for constructing microstructures that can penetrate skin layers, in which the microelements are formed during a molding process while fluidic jets produce openings in the microelements. The structures used in the molding process are formed by tooling that creates the shapes of the microelements in a material deposition step, and also creates the sizes and shapes of the openings that will be formed by the fluidic jets.

 

WO2005065765A1

MEDICAL DEVICES AND KITS INCLUDING SAME

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY

7/21/2005

A medical device is described, comprising an array (10) comprising microstructures (12) configured to penetrate the stratum corneum upon impact, and a connection member (20) affixed to the array in a one piece construction, the connection member configured to reversibly connect the medical device to an applicator. The medical devices of the invention may be used in methods requiring the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue through the skin. In use, it is generally desirable to provide the microstructures at a height sufficient to penetrate the stratum corneum. A medical kit is also described, comprising the foregoing medical device and a tray (34) configured to hold the medical device.

 

WO2005065545A2

BLOOD ANALYSIS DEVICE FOR DETERMINING AN ANALYTE

PAUL HARTMANN AG | LOHRENHEL, Armin | STЦHR, Herbert | OSTERTAG, Wolfgang

7/21/2005

The invention relates to a blood analysis device (2) comprising a housing body (4), a blood withdrawal device (8) comprising a plurality of pricking elements (10), a plurality of testing means (14) which are used to analyse a minimal amount of blood, an evaluation device comprising an electronic evaluation system and a display device (6), which together form one complete hand-held system which is embodied as a single device. The housing body (4) can be arranged in a pricking position (12) corresponding to an operational position (30) of a respective pricking element (10) which is applied to the surface of the skin of a user. A plurality of testing means (14) and pricking elements (10) can be introduced into the device and can be arranged in a successive manner in an operational position (30) in order to carry out several measurements. When a pricking element (10) is positioned in an operational position (30), the pricking element can be inserted into the surface of the skin of a user in a pricking position (1

 

Small-scale pattern size control during metal electropolishing.      Guo, Weidong; Johnson, Duane T.    Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering,  University of Alabama,  Tuscaloosa,  AL,  USA.    AIChE Annual Meeting, Conference Proceedings, Austin, TX, United States, Nov. 7-12, 2004  (2004),     595H/1-595H/5.  Publisher: American Institute of Chemical Engineers,  New York, N. Y  CODEN: 69GSKT  Conference; Computer Optical Disk  written in English.    CAN 144:241888    AN 2005:953673    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  In our previous work, we have studied the pattern formation during the electropolishing of both isotropic and anisotropic materials.  Both models predict stable hexagonal and striped patterns and are in qual. agreement with expts.  In this paper, we study the small-scale pattern size control during electropolishing.  Our study shows that applied voltage, surface diffusion and surface desorption coeffs. play a key role in decreasing the pattern size.

 

Graphite-Incorporated MoS2 Nanotubes: A New Coaxial Binary System.      Reza-San German, C.; Santiago, P.; Ascencio, J. A.; Pal, U.; Perez-Alvarez, M.; Rendon, L.; Mendoza, D.    Facultad de Quimica,  Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Mexico,  Toluca,  Mex.    Journal of Physical Chemistry B  (2005),  109(37),  17488-17495.  Publisher: American Chemical Society,  CODEN: JPCBFK  ISSN: 1520-6106.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 143:407787    AN 2005:904450    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Graphite-filled MoS2 nanotubes were synthesized by pyrolyzing propylene inside MoS2 nanotubes prepd. by a template-assisted technique.  The large coaxial nanotubes were constituted of graphite sheets inserted between the MoS2 layers, forming the outer part, and coaxial multiwall carbon nanotubes intercalated with MoS2 inside.  High-resoln. electron microscopy (HREM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy techniques along with mol. dynamics simulation and quantum mech. calcns. were used to characterize the samples.  The one-dimensional structures exhibit diverse morphologies such as long straight and twisted nanotubes with several structural irregularities.  The interplanar spacing between the MoS2 layers increased from 6.3 to 7.4 .ANG. due to intercalation with carbon.  Simulated HREM images revealed the presence of mech. strains in the carbon-intercalated MoS2 layers as the reason for obtaining these twisted nanostructures.  The mechanism of formation of carbon-intercalated MoS2 tubular structures and their stability and electronic properties are discussed.  Our results open up the possibility of using MoS2 nanotubes as templates for the synthesis of new one-dimensional binary-phase systems.

 

US20050158849A1

Process of fabricating polymer sustained microelectrodes

7/21/2005

In one aspect, a process for fabricating a microelectrode is described that includes: a) providing a substrate comprising at least one polymer micro-ridge, where the polymer micro-ridge comprises an upper surface and two walls, and the two walls form an angle with a lower surface; b) depositing a metal thin film on the upper surface, the two walls, and the lower surface; and c) etching a predetermined amount of the deposited metal thin film on the lower surface to form the microelectrode. In another aspect, a process for fabricating a microelectrode is described that includes: a) providing a substrate comprising at least one polymer micro-ridge, where the polymer micro-ridge comprises an upper surface and at least one wall, and the wall forms an angle with a lower surface; b) depositing a metal thin film on the upper surface, the wall, and the lower surface; c) etching a predetermined amount of the deposited metal thin film on the lower surface or the deposited metal thin film on the upper surface; and d) etc

 

EP1362788A3

Devices, systems and methods for the containing and use of liquid solutions

Lifescan, Inc.

7/20/2005

The present invention includes devices, systems and methods for containing and using liquid solutions. The devices include liquid containment structures and packages of such liquid containment structures for containing single doses of a liquid solution for subsequent use. The systems include at least one subject containment structure or package of containment structures and the liquid solution for which they are intended to contain. The liquid solutions may comprise any type of agent, reagent or control solution. The subject methods involve the use of the liquid containment structures and packages thereof as well as methods of providing a control solution for use to evaluate a system's performance.

 

WO2003024507A3

MICRONEEDLES, MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS, AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO SAME

BIOVALVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

7/14/2005

The microneedle devices (100) disclosed herein in some embodiments include a substrate (104); one or more microneedles; and, optionally, a reservoir for delivery of drugs or collection of analyte, as well as pump(s), sensor(s), and/or microprocessor(s) to control the interaction of the foregoing.

 

EP1552782A1

Analyte extracting device, kit and method, and blood sugar measuring device and method

SYSMEX CORPORATION

7/13/2005

An extracting kits for extracting analyte through the skin of a living body are disclosed that comprises an inserting device comprising needles for forming a plurality of extraction holes in the skin through the stratum corneum but not reaching the subcutaneous tissue and an extracting device (36) for extracting the analyte into a liquid supplied into the extraction holes by supplying the liquid into the plurality of extraction holes. An extracting device, blood sugar measuring device (31), extracting method, and blood sugar measuring method are also described.

 

US20050149088A1

Medical lancet

7/7/2005

One of aspects of the present invention is to provide a medical lancet, which includes a first ascending region, a descending region, and a second ascending region subsequently and integrally formed of biodegradable material. Those regions extend from a point of the lancet in a predetermined direction, and each of the regions having triangular cross sections taken along any planes perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The first and second ascending regions have the triangular cross sections of which area monotonically increases as being away from the point. Also, the descending region has the triangular cross sections of which area monotonically decreases as being away from the point. The first and second ascending regions have the largest cross section having substantially the same size and shape to each other.

 

WO2005058162A1

MEDICAL NEEDLE AND MEDICAL DEVICE

LIGHTNIX, INC.

6/30/2005

A medical needle extending in a specified direction, wherein the cross sectional area of a vertical cross section cut by a plane perpendicular to the specified direction is regularly increased or decreased depending on a distance from the tip part thereof. The medial needle comprises a plurality of maximum points where the cross sectional area of the vertical cross section is maximized and a plurality of minimum points where the cross sectional area of the vertical cross section is minimized. The cross sectional area of the vertical cross section at the maximum point nearest the tip part is equal to or larger than the cross sectional area of the vertical cross section at the other maximum points. Thus, when the medial needle is pierced in a patient, pain given to the patient can be minimized and damage to the pierced portion of the patient can be minimized.

 

US6911155B2

Methods and systems for forming slots in a substrate

Hewlett Packard Development Company, L.P.

6/28/2005

The described embodiments relate to methods and systems for forming slots in a substrate. In one exemplary embodiment, a slot is formed in a substrate that has first and second opposing surfaces. A first trench is dry etched through the first surface of the substrate. A second trench is created through the second surface of the substrate effective to form, in combination with the first trench, a slot. At least a portion of the slot passes entirely through the substrate, and the maximum width of the slot is less than or equal to about 50 of the thickness of the substrate.

 

US20050136501A1

Diagnostic test strip for collecting and detecting an analyte a fluid sample and method for using same

6/23/2005

A test strip for use of the determination of an analyte in a fluid sample according to one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. The test strip comprises a base having a top and a bottom, a collection chamber that extends between the top and the bottom of the base, a containing ring that is disposed on the bottom of the base and surrounds the collection chamber, and a capillary channel formed in top of the base that has an inlet fluidly coupled to the collection chamber, a test element disposed within the capillary channel. A lid is attached to the top of the base and covers the collection chamber, the test membrane, and at least a portion of the capillary channel.

 

US6908453B2

Microneedle devices and methods of manufacture

3M Innovative Properties Company

6/21/2005

Microneedle devices and methods of manufacturing the microneedle devices. The microneedle devices include microneedles protruding from a substrate, with the microneedles piercing a cover placed over the substrate surface from which the microneedles protrude. The cover and the microneedle substrate together define a capillary volume in fluid communication with the base of each microneedle. One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue. Manufacturing methods may include simultaneous application of pressure and ultrasonic energy when piercing the cover with the microneedles.

 

WO2005051476A1

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RAPID TRANSDERMAL ADMINISTRATION

ACRUX DDS PTY LTD

6/9/2005

Invention relates to a method for transdermal delivery of a topically applied physiologically active agent comprising: providing a micro-projection apparatus comprising an array of microprojections (3) extending from a substrate; applying the array of micro-projections to an area of skin to form an array of microscopic holes therein; and contacting the area of skin with a transdermal composition comprising a physiologically active agent and at least one penetration enhancer wherein the formation of the microscopic holes and penetration enhancer facilitate transdermal delivery of the physiologically active agent.

 

WO2005009645A3

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING MICRONEEDLES

10X TECHNOLOGY LLC. | PRICONE, Robert, M.

6/2/2005

The apparatus comprises a mold assembly including at least one bore therethrough having a cavity (44) therein defining the shape of the finished microneedle shape (58) to be formed therein. The bore has an inlet opening (46) and an exit opening (45). The apparatus also comprises means for locating the polymer to be formed at one end of the cavity and means (26) for introducing fluid into the inlet opening of said bore and into the cavity. The apparatus also comprises exhaust means (56) communicating with the exit opening of the bore, so that introducing the fluid through the polymer causes the polymer to assume the shape of the cavity and the fluid forms a hollow channel (52) to define a needle-like structure (58) in the polymer as the fluid is exhausted through the cavity (44) and the bore.

 

US6899838B2

Method of forming a mold and molding a micro-device

Becton, Dickinson and Company

5/31/2005

A method of forming a device including a plurality of micron or sub-micron sized features is provided. A master having a surface contour defining a plurality of features is provided. The surface contour of the master is coated with at least one layer of material to form a shell. The master is removed from the shell to form a negative image of the surface contour in the shell. The negative image in the shell is filled with material, for example, polycarbonate, polyacrylic, or polystyrene, to form a device having features substantially the same as the master. The negative image may be filled using injection molding, compression molding, embossing or any other compatible technique.

 

EP1532925A1

Device and method for extracting body fluid

LifeScan, Inc.

5/25/2005

A device for extracting bodily fluid such as an ISF sample includes a penetration member (402) with a channel, e.g., a hollow needle and a fluid flow regulator (404) for example, a narrow-bore cylinder disposed within the channel. The penetration member is configured for penetrating a target site such as a dermal tissue target site and subsequently residing within the target site and extracting a bodily fluid sample therefrom. The fluid flow regulator is adapted to control, e.g., reduce or minimize variation in bodily fluid flow rate through the penetration member. In addition, the presence of the fluid flow regulator in the channel of the penetration member serves to reduce sensor lag by reducing the dead volume of the penetration member. A method for extracting bodily fluid from a target site includes providing the aforementioned device. Next, the target site is penetrated with the penetration member of the device. Subsequently, bodily fluid is extracted from the target site via the penetration member and t

 

Formation of nanoscale pore arrays during anodization of aluminum.      Singh, G. K.; Golovin, A. A.; Aranson, I. S.; Vinokur, V. M.    Department of Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics,  Northwestern University,  Evanston,  IL,  USA.    Europhysics Letters  (2005),  70(6),  836-842.  Publisher: EDP Sciences,  CODEN: EULEEJ  ISSN: 0295-5075.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 143:237196    AN 2005:590997    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A theory of the spontaneous formation of spatially regular hexagonal arrays of nanopores in Al oxide film growing during Al anodization is presented.  Linear stability anal. shows that, in certain ranges of the applied voltage and electrolyte pH, the oxide film is unstable with respect to perturbations with a well-defined wavelength.  The instability is caused by a pos. feedback between the oxidn.-dissoln. rates and variations of elec. field caused by perturbations of the metal-oxide and oxide-electrolyte interfaces.  The competition between this instability and the stabilizing effects of the Laplace pressure and elastic stress provides the wavelength selection mechanism.  The hexagonal ordering of pores results from the resonant quadratic nonlinear interaction of unstable modes.

 

 

Enhancing infrared response of adsorbed biomaterials using ellipsometry and textured surfaces.      Thompson, Daniel W.; Woollam, John A.    University of Nebraska-Lincoln Electrical Engineering Department,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Spectroscopy (Amsterdam, Netherlands)  (2005),  19(3),  147-164.  Publisher: IOS Press,  CODEN: SPIJDZ  ISSN: 0712-4813.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 144:137639    AN 2005:559231    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  IR spectra are of interest for numerous applications because of the chem. bond information present in the absorption characteristics.  Obtaining meaningful IR spectra from monolayers adsorbed to surfaces can be difficult because of the small amt. of material being probed.  For instance, it is often of interest to probe adsorbates on a surface after exposure to a protein soln.  Use of textured (patterned) surfaces to increase the mass of material sensed is expected to enhance these spectra.  Here the IR ellipsometric enhancement is calcd. for a layer of adsorbate on a no. of proposed nanostructured surfaces to predict which is most advantageous for obtaining IR spectra.  The approach used here could also be applied to other adsorbates by optimizing the pattern dimensions for different sizes.  It also works for visible spectroscopy as long as pattern dimensions are significantly smaller than the wavelength.  The effect of using these structures (rods, wells, and trenches) is compared to the response of flat metal or dielec. surfaces over a range of incidence angles of the IR beam.  Predicted sensitivities are based on the calcd. effect of adsorbate on intensities in an ellipsometric measurement.  Trench structures appear to have significant advantages both in sensitivity and ability to distinguish adsorbed species orientation.

 

Optical characterization of porous alumina from vacuum ultraviolet to midinfrared.      Thompson, Daniel W.; Snyder, Paul G.; Castro, Leon; Yan, Li; Kaipa, Prasuna; Woollam, John A.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska-Lincoln,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Journal of Applied Physics  (2005),  97(11),  113511/1-113511/9.  Publisher: American Institute of Physics,  CODEN: JAPIAU  ISSN: 0021-8979.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 143:237194    AN 2005:557265    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Porous alumina was fabricated and optically characterized over a wide spectral range.  Layers were formed electrochem. in oxalic acid soln. from 10-m-thick Al films evapd. onto Si wafers.  The layer formation was monitored with in situ spectroscopic ellipsometry in the visible and near-IR wavelength range to accurately det. the thickness and dielec. functions.  Anisotropy due to the columnar nature of the porous structure was detd. using optical modeling.  The porous alumina layer has a small but significant absorption tail throughout the visible region.  At. force microscopy and SEM were used throughout the process to assess the quality of pore formation.  The mean pore center-to-center spacing was .apprx.100 nm with thicknesses up to 5 m.  The IR spectra revealed absorption peaks previously seen in ceramic alumina and peaks not assocd. with bulk alumina.

 

Engineering nanophase self-assembly with elastic field.      Lu, Wei; Kim, Dongchoul.    Department of Mechanical Engineering,  University of Michigan,  Ann Arbor,  MI,  USA.    Acta Materialia  (2005),  53(13),  3689-3694.  Publisher: Elsevier Ltd.,  CODEN: ACMAFD  ISSN: 1359-6454.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 143:235868    AN 2005:544848    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A binary monolayer on an elastic substrate may sep. into two phases, which self-assemble into ordered nanoscale patterns.  An elastic field is applied to the substrate to guide the self-assembly process.  The effect of arbitrary three-dimensional external loading is characterized by a single two-dimensional parameter, a surface stain field of the substrate.  A non-uniform strain field significantly influences the size, shape and orientation of self-assembled features, and may induce the formation of pattern colonies.  A pattern orients normal to the strain gradient direction.  An applied load anchors the position of a self-assembled pattern relative to the substrate, where a colony boundary resides on the strain gradient region.  A method of strain field design to make various monolayer patterns for nanofabrication is suggested.

 

Capillary penetration failure of blood suspensions.      Zhou, Ronghui; Chang, Hsueh-Chia.    Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering,  University of Notre Dame,  Notre Dame,  IN,  USA.    Journal of Colloid and Interface Science  (2005),  287(2),  647-656.  Publisher: Elsevier,  CODEN: JCISA5  ISSN: 0021-9797.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 143:180242    AN 2005:491555    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Blood suspension fails to penetrate a capillary with radius R less than 50 m even if the capillary is perfectly wettable.  This invasion threshold is attributed to three red blood cells (RBCs) segregation mechanisms-corner deflection at the entrance, the intermediate deformation-induced radial migration and shear-induced diffusion within a packed slug at the meniscus.  The shear-induced radial migration for deformable particles endows the blood cells with a higher velocity than the meniscus to form the concd. slug behind the meniscus.  This tightly packed slug has a higher resistance and arrests the flow.  Rigid particles and rigidified blood cells result in wetting behavior similar to that seen for homogeneous liqs., with decreased RBC migration towards the capillary centerline and redn. of packing.  Corner deflection with a radial drift velocity accelerates the radial migration for small capillaries.  However, deformation-induced radial migration is the key mechanism responsible for penetration failure.  This sequence of mechanisms is confirmed through video microscopy and scaling theories were applied to capture the dependence of the crit. capillary radius as a function of RBC concns.

 

WO2005044364A1

MICRONEEDLES AND MICRONEEDLE FABRICATION

AGENCY FOR SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH

5/19/2005

A master mould is made by wire cutting a plate in two or more directions to provide a base with an array of master mould needles protruding therefrom. The size and shape of the master mould needles can readily be varied by varying the angles of upward and downward cuts in the two or more directions. The master mould is used to make a secondary mould by hot embossing a secondary mould plate onto the master mould. This forms through-holes inthe secondary mould. The secondary mould is plated with a layer of metal, which forms a microneedle array.

 

WO2005044342A1

LIQUID HOUSING CHAMBER AND LIQUID DELIVERING DEVICE CONTAINING SUCH CHAMBER

AGENCY FOR SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH

5/19/2005

A liquid housing chamber for use in a device for administering liquid to a subject, said liquid chamber comprising a cavity defined by a base and a surrounding sidewall, said sidewall including an upper rim; a deformable membrane attached to the upper rim and covering said cavity; and an outlet located in the base; wherein said base is inclined from about said outlet to said surrounding sidewall and is formed of a substantially rigid material.

 

US20050100937A1

Medical device for analyte monitoring and drug delivery

5/12/2005

The invention relates to an ingestible, implantable or wearable medical device comprising a microarray which comprises a bioactive agent capable of interacting with a disease marker biological analyte; a reservoir which comprises at least one therapeutic agent and is capable of releasing the therapeutic agent(s) from the medical device; and a plurality of microchips comprising a microarray scanning device capable of obtaining physical parameter data of an interaction between the disease marker biological analyte with the bioactive agent; a biometric recognition device capable of comparing the physical parameter data with an analyte interaction profile; optionally a therapeutic agent releasing device capable of controlling release of the therapeutic agent from the reservoirs; an interface device capable of facilitating communications between the microarray scanning device, biometric recognition device and the therapeutic agent releasing device; and an energy source to power the medical device. Specifically, th

 

EP1529488A1

Device and method for sampling and analysing body fluids

Ehrfeld Mikrotechnik AG in Insolvenz

5/11/2005

Body fluids sampling device for use by medical personnel has supply of single-use sampling units with microneedle attached to flexible membrane actuated by air compressor piston The single-use sampling and sensor unit (2) for the body fluids sampling device has a microneedle (3) attached to the center of the flexible membrane (4). The single-use sampling unit has a flat base (14) which is placed against the patient's body. The microneedle pierces through the base into the patient's skin.-A chemical sensor unit (5) is situated in the channel leading past the needle to the space under the membrane. The sampling unit is snapped into place in a handle (1) containing a spring-loaded (6) air compressor piston (8) a measurement device (10) and a display (12). The piston is released by a catch (7) and compresses air to push the membrane inward.

 

US20050096519A1

Minimally-invasive system and method for monitoring analyte levels

5/5/2005

A minimally-invasive analyte detecting device and method for using the same. The system and method employ a device having an active electrode optionally coated with a substance, and a counter-electrode that is configured at least partially surround the active electrode. The configuration of the auxiliary electrode and active electrode improves the current flow through the device and increases the sensitivity of the device. When the device is placed against the patient's skin, the active electrode is adapted to enter through the stratum corneum of a patient to a depth less than a depth in the dermis at which nerve endings reside. An electric potential is applied to the active electrode and the analyte level is determined based on the amount of current or charge flowing through the device.

 

US6887709B2

Devices, systems and methods for the containment and use of liquid solutions

LifeScan, Inc.

5/3/2005

The present invention includes devices, systems and methods for containing and using liquid solutions. The devices include liquid containment structures and packages of such liquid containment structures for containing single doses of a liquid solution for subsequent use. The systems include at least one subject containment structure or package of containment structures and the liquid solution for which they are intended to contain. The liquid solutions may comprise any type of agent, reagent or control solution. The subject methods involve the use of the liquid containment structures and packages thereof as well as methods of providing a control solution for use to evaluate a system's performance.

 

WO2005034752A1

A LANCING DEVICE USING A PIEZOELECTRIC ACTUATOR

LIFESCAN SCOTLAND LTD

4/21/2005

A lancing device having a piezoelectric actuator mechanism for driving a lance towards the skin of a patient. The lance is mounted on an actuator arm that is fixed at one end and has piezoelectric layers mounted on its sides. An electric field applied across the piezoelectric layers causes the arm to bend and controllably move the lance. The lancing device may be combined with a testing device.

 

US6881203B2

Microneedle arrays and methods of manufacturing the same

3M Innovative Properties Company

4/19/2005

Microneedle arrays, methods of manufacturing microneedles and methods of using microneedle arrays. The microneedles in the microneedle arrays may be in the form of tapered structures that include at least one channel formed in the outside surface of each microneedle. The microneedles may have bases that are elongated in one direction. The channels in microneedles with elongated bases may extend from one of the ends of the elongated bases towards the tips of the microneedles. The channels formed along the sides of the microneedles may optionally be terminated short of the tips of the microneedles. The microneedle arrays may also include conduit structures formed on the surface of the substrate on which the microneedle array is located. The channels in the microneedles may be in fluid communication with the conduit structures. One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue.

 

WO2004063350A3

HIGHLY CONTROLLABLE ELECTROPORATION AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF

REVEO, INC.

4/14/2005

The controllable electroporation system and method described herein allows control over the size, the number, the location, and the distribution of aqueous pores, thus increasing flexibility of use. The herein described system and method for controllable electroporation generally employs at least two actuating sub-systems and sub-processes. One sub-system and sub-process employs a relatively broad effect in order to weaken the membrane, a broad effect sub-system. Another sub-system and sub-process employs a relatively narrow effect in order to localize the position of the pore in the membrane, a narrow effect sub-system.

 

US6875613B2

Biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices and methods

LifeScan, Inc.

4/5/2005

A device for accessing biological fluid, sampling biological fluid constituents and determining the concentration of at least one target constituent within the accessed biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and to access biological fluid, a constituent sampling means and a constituent measuring means. The constituent sampling means comprises a constituent transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic gel material, by which sampled constituents are transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode through which at least one sampled constituent is caused to enter into the electrochemical cell. Methods of sampling constituents within the skin and measuring the sampled constituents, as well as kits for practicing the invention are provided.

 

WO2005016633A8

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UTILIZING LOW PRESSURE FOR PERFORATING AND CONSOLIDATING AN UNCURED LAMINATE SHEET IN ONE CYCLE OF OPERATION

3/31/2005

A system (10) is provided for perforating and consolidating an uncured laminate sheet (14) at a substantially low pressure in one cycle of operation. The system (10) includes a pinmat (20) that is coupled to a tool base (24). This pinmat (20) is comprised of a mat portion (28) and a plurality of pins (26) extending from the mat portion (28). These pins (26) are intended to displace discontinuous fibers (32) within the laminate sheet (14) so as to perforate the laminate sheet (14). Furthermore, the mat portion (28) has one or more ventilation holes (58) integrally formed therein for allowing gas adjacent to the pins (26) to be withdrawn therefrom so as to improve the consolidation of the laminate sheet (14). The system (10) also includes a positive pressure source (12) that is coupled to the laminate sheet (14) for forcing the laminate sheet (14) onto the pinmat (20).

 

WO2004034024A9

LANCET SYSTEM INCLUDING TEST STRIPS AND CASSETTES

3/31/2005

A lancet (10) for drawing blood or other bodily fluid is provided with a region (17) where a chemical reagent resides that reacts with at least one constituent of the bodily fluid to ascertain information about the bodily fluid. The lancet (10) has a body (11) and a head (12) provided with a sharp tip (14) for penetrating the skin. The tip (14) is provided with at least one channel or groove (16) in fluid communication with the area where the chemical reagent is positioned. An electroconductive ink is positioned on the lancet to form electrical contacts (19, 20), extending from the area where the chemical reagent is deposited to a location away from the chemical reagent. The chemical reagent positioned on the lancet undergoes a reaction with the bodily fluid that creates an electrical potential between the two ends of the electrical contacts (19, 20).

 

US20050070538A1

Compounds and uses thereof in modulating amyloid beta

3/31/2005

Novel compounds, compositions, and kits are provided. Methods of modulating Aβ levels, and methods of treating a disease associated with aberrant Aβ levels are also provided.

 

EP1518509A1

Medical device package, kit and associated methods

Diabetes Diagnostics, Inc.

3/30/2005

A medical device package for receiving, and securely and removably retaining, a medical device includes main and minor cap members. The main cap member has a proximal end, a distal end and a cavity with a cavity opening at the proximal end. The cavity is configured to receive, and to securely and removably retain, the medical device at least partially therein. The minor cap member is configured to seal the cavity opening once the medical device has been received in the cavity. Kits further include a connector adapted for engaging the medical device member and breaching the minor cap member. A method for extracting a medical device from a medical device package includes first providing a medical device package as described above, with a medical device therein, and a connector. The method also includes breaching the minor cap member with the connector such that at least a portion of the connector enters the cavity of the medical device package. Next, the medical device is engaged by the connector and extracted

 

EP1088642B1

Method and apparatus for manufacturing a molded device

Becton Dickinson and Company

3/30/2005

A device, preferably a micro-device (10), is molded from a plastic material by injection molding, compression molding or embossing. A microabrader (10) can be molded having microneedles (14) for abrading the stratum corneum of the skin to form an abraded site in the tissue for enhancing drug delivery. The micro-device (10) is molded using a mold assembly having a silicon molding surface (76). The silicon molding surface (76) can include a recess (78) corresponding to the desired shape and length of the microneedles (14). The silicon molding surface (76) enables micron and submicron size features to be molded from polymeric materials without the polymeric material adhering to the mold surface. Micro-devices having molded features having micron and submicron dimensions can be rapidly produced without the use of a release agent.

 

US6866675B2

Lancet device having capillary action

Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.

3/15/2005

A device for sampling body fluid, the device comprising, a main body, a lancet disposed within the main body, a carrier disposed within the main body fixedly attached to the lancet, a spring in communication with the lancet and the carrier, an annular space disposed within the main body adjacent the lancet, and a testing device for measuring a body fluid. The testing device may include micro-porous test strips, an electronic testing device, an optical/reflectance testing measuring device, or a visual inspection.

 

WO2005020817A1

SAMPLING DEVICE WITH CAPILLARY ACTION

INVERNESS MEDICAL SWITZERLAND GMBH

3/10/2005

The present invention provides a device for receiving a sample of liquid, such as a sample of bodily liquid which is to be subjected to further analysis. The device comprises a body having at least a major surface and a minor surface. A sample-receiving chamber is located in the body and has an inlet end which opens into the major and minor surfaces of the body. A conduit is located in the body, extends from the outlet end of the chamber, and is arranged so as to allow the liquid to pass from the outlet end into the conduit by capillary action.

 

WO2005016633A1

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UTILIZING LOW PRESSURE FOR PERFORATING AND CONSOLIDATING AN UNCURED LAMINATE SHEET IN ONE CYCLE OF OPERATION

THE BOEING COMPANY

2/24/2005

A system (10) is provided for perforating and consolidating an uncured laminate sheet (14) at a substantially low pressure in one cycle of operation. The system (10) includes a pinmat (20) that is coupled to a tool base (24). This pinmat (20) is comprised of a mat portion (28) and a plurality of pins (26) extending from the mat portion (28). These pins (26) are intended to displace discontinuous fibers (32) within the laminate sheet (14) so as to perforate the laminate sheet (14). Furthermore, the mat portion (28) has one or more ventilation holes (58) integrally formed therein for allowing gas adjacent to the pins (26) to be withdrawn therefrom so as to improve the consolidation of the laminate sheet (14). The system (10) also includes a positive pressure source (12) that is coupled to the laminate sheet (14) for forcing the laminate sheet (14) onto the pinmat (20).

 

US20050043775A1

Percutaneous electrode array

2/24/2005

A method of producing percutaneous electrode array is disclosed for applying therapeutic electrical energy to a treatment site in the body of a patient. The array comprises a plurality of electrode microstructures which are inserted into the epidermis, thereby overcoming the inherent electrical impedance of the outer skin layers and obviating the need to prepare the skin surface prior to an electro-therapy treatment. The array preferably includes an adhesion layer to help keep the electrode microstructures inserted into the epidermis during the duration of the therapeutic treatment, and temperature and condition monitoring devices to ensure proper treatment and enhance patient safety.

 

A facile approach to preparation of nanostripes on the electropolished aluminum surface.      Kong, Ling-Bin; Huang, Yi; Guo, Yi; Li, Hu-Lin.    State Key Laboratory of Advanced Non-ferrous Materials,  Lanzhou University of Technology,  Lanzhou,  Peop. Rep. China.    Materials Letters  (2005),  59(13),  1656-1659.  Publisher: Elsevier B.V.,  CODEN: MLETDJ  ISSN: 0167-577X.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 144:9577    AN 2005:304692    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Ordered nanostripe structures on aluminum surface were obtained by electropolishing unannealed polycryst. aluminum sheet in the C2H5OH and HClO4 soln. [V(C2H5OH)/V(HClO4)=4:1] at room temp. for 10 s, with the cell voltage at 20 V.

 

US20050036909A1

Packaged medical device with a deployable dermal tissue penetration member

2/17/2005

A packaged medical device includes upper and lower flexible sheets, a lance body and a test strip. The lance body includes upper and lower surfaces, an opening that extends between the upper and lower surfaces and a dermal tissue penetration member that projects into the lance body opening. The test strip has an opening therethrough and is attached to the lance body lower surface such that the dermal tissue penetration member is operatively aligned with the test strip opening. The upper flexible sheet is attached to the lance body upper surface and covers the lance body opening, while the lower flexible sheet is detachably attached to the test strip and covers the test strip opening. The upper flexible sheet, lance body and test strip are configured such that, when the lower flexible sheet has been detached to uncover the test strip opening, the upper flexible sheet, lance body and test strip can be bent to deploy the dermal tissue penetration member from the lance body opening. A kit includes the packaged me

 

US6855117B2

Method of treating the skin of a subject

Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.

2/15/2005

The present invention relates to a method of treating the skin of a subject, the method including the steps of: (a) accessing a sample of interstitial fluid from the skin of the subject; (b) measuring the amount of a skin analyte in the sample; and (c) applying a skin care product to the subject to alter the amount of the skin analyte in the skin of the subject.

 

US6853863B2

Electro therapy method and apparatus

Biowave Corporation

2/8/2005

An apparatus for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient is disclosed, which provides two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

 

WO2005009645A2

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING MICRONEEDLES

PRICONE, Robert, M.

2/3/2005

The apparatus comprises a mold assembly including at least one bore therethrough having a cavity therein defining the shape of the finished microneedle shape to be formed therein. The bore has an inlet opening and an exit opening. The apparatus also comprises means for locating the polymer to be formed at one end of the cavity and means for introducing fluid into the inlet opening of said bore and into the cavity. The apparatus also comprises exhaust means communicating with the exit opening of the bore, so that introducing the fluid through the polymer causes the polymer to assume the shape of the cavity and the fluid forms a hollow channel to define a needle-like structure in the polymer as the fluid is exhausted through the cavity and the bore.

 

WO2004034024A3

LANCET SYSTEM INCLUDING TEST STRIPS AND CASSETTES

CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

2/3/2005

A lancet (10) for drawing blood or other bodily fluid is provided with a region (17) where a chemical reagent resides that reacts with at least one constituent of the bodily fluid to ascertain information about the bodily fluid. The lancet (10) has a body (11) and a head (12) provided with a sharp tip (14) for penetrating the skin. The tip (14) is provided with at least one channel or groove (16) in fluid communication with the area where the chemical reagent is positioned. An electroconductive ink is positioned on the lancet to form electrical contacts (19, 20), extending from the area where the chemical reagent is deposited to a location away from the chemical reagent. The chemical reagent positioned on the lancet undergoes a reaction with the bodily fluid that creates an electrical potential between the two ends of the electrical contacts (19, 20).

 

USD501560S1

Electrochemical test strip

Diabetes Diagnostics, Inc.

2/1/2005

 

FR2857282A1

DISPOSITIF D'APPLICATION D'UN PRODUIT ET ENSEMBLE DE CONDITIONNEMENT ET D'APPLICATION D'UN PRODUIT

L'OREAL Sociйtй anonyme

1/14/2005

La prйsente invention concerne un dispositif (10) pour l'application sur une surface d'un produit, notamment cosmйtique ou de soin, comprenant :-un support (20) destinй а кtre fixй sur un rйcipient contenant ledit produit,-un organe d'application (11) dйfinissant une surface d'application (12), ledit organe d'application йtant montй sur le support, la surface d'application (12) йtant alimentйe par au moins un passage (16, 24) apte а кtre en communication avec l'intйrieur du rйcipient, via une ouverture du rйcipient, le passage traversant l'organe d'application et le support, l'organe d'application йtant fixй au support par une soudure (50) formйe autour d'au moins une partie du passage (16, 24). La soudure est obtenue lors de la formation du passage traversant le support et l'organe d'application, notamment par perзage au moyen d'un rayon laser.

 

EP1495695A1

Device for applying a product, storing and application unit using such a device

L'ORЙAL

1/12/2005

Coating applicator for care cosmetic, has support for fixing to product container and passage through which product passes from container to application surface The support (20) is fixed on a product container. The applicator (11), mounted on the support, has an application surface (12). This is fed through a passage (16, 24) penetrating through the applicator and its support, which can be connected to the interior of the container through a container opening.-An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is included for the method of manufacture.

 

US6840910B2

Method of distributing skin care products

Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.

1/11/2005

The present invention relates to a method of distributing a skin care product to a subject, the method including the steps of: (a) obtaining a sample of interstitial fluid from the skin of the subject; (b) measuring the amount of a skin analyte in the sample; and (c) distributing a skin care product to the subject to alter the amount of the skin analyte in the skin of the subject.

 

US6837988B2

Biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

LifeScan, Inc.

1/4/2005

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring a target analyte within the biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and access biological fluid, a sampling means and a measuring means. The sampling means comprises a fluid transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic porous material, by which sampled biological fluid is transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode and, typically, a reagent material, where the electrochemical cell is configured so as to make an electrochemical measurement of a target analyte in accessed biological fluid present therein. Methods of sampling biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices.

 

US20040267205A1

Micro needles and method of manufacture thereof

12/30/2004

A micro-needle according to the invention protrudes from a support member. The needle comprises a needle body portion, a closed pointed tip portion, and an inner lumen extending through said support member and into said protruding needle. The needle body portion has at least one side opening communicating with said inner lumen. The method of making the needle comprises providing a mask on the front side of an etchable wafer such that the vertical projection of said mask at least partially covers the extension of a hole made in the back side. Said mask is isotropically underetched to remove wafer material. An anisotropic etch forms a protruding structure. Optionally a second isotropic etch on said protruding structure exposes the blind hole. Optionally a final anisotropic etch extends the needle without forming side openings. The position and extension of the mask relative the position and dimension of the hole is such that said side openings form during either said anisotropic etc or said second isotropic etc

 

WO2004113902A1

REAGENT STRIPE FOR TEST STRIP

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

12/29/2004

A test strip (10) having a small sample-receiving chamber on the order of less than 1 microliter includes a reagent layer (33) that extends across the width of the test strip and also extends to the sample-receiving end (36), such that the edges of the reagent layer are aligned with the side and dose receiving edges of the test strip. The hydrophilic reagent extending to the dosing edge of the strip promotes wicking of the sample into the test strip. The end and side edges of the reagent layer are preferably formed as part of a cutting process that forms individual test strips from a larger web, which results in a smooth and thin reagent layer with a uniform thickness, substantially covering the entire floor of the sample-receiving chamber. The inventive mass production process helps improve the reproducibility of the quantity, location, thickness and other properties of the reagent layer, which in turn improves the accuracy of the test result.

 

WO2004112892A1

METHOD, DEVICE AND KIT FOR BODY DECORATION BY ELECTROKINETIC TRANSDERMAL TRANSPORT OF COLOR FORMULATION

POWER PAPER LTD.

12/29/2004

A method, device and kit for body decoration. Embodiments of the kit include an ink suitable for body decoration, means for applying the ink to a desired body area, and an electrically powered patch detachably coupled to the application means to promote penetration of the ink into the body area. Embodiments of the device include a fully integrated patch device. The patch device integrates the elements of a kit (i.e., a color formulation, a means for applying, and a patch) into a stand-alone patch. Embodiments of the method include contacting the desired body area with a means for applying, applying ink through the means for applying, and promoting penetration of the ink into the body area with the patch by applying electric current to the ink application. Exemplary applications include temporary and permanent tattooing, applying semi-permanent cosmetics, animal tattooing, and administering therapeutic treatments.

 

US6835184B1

Method and device for abrading skin

Becton, Dickinson and Company

12/28/2004

A device includes a plurality of microneedles for abrading the stratum corneum of the skin to form a plurality of grooves in the tissue having a controlled depth and width. The microneedles have a length of about 5-250 microns and generally about 5-200 microns. The device is rubbed over the skin to prepare an abraded site after which a transdermal delivery or sampling device is applied to the abraded delivery site. The abrasion increases the permeability of the skin and the rate of delivery and extraction of a substance without pain or irritation to the patient.

 

WO2004110717A2

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING MICROSTRUCTURES HAVING HOLLOW MICROELEMENTS USING FLUIDIC JETS DURING A MOLDING OPERATION

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY | SHERMAN, Faiz, Feisal | GARTSTEIN, Vladimir

12/23/2004

A method is provided for constructing microstructures that can penetrate skin layers, in which the microelements are formed during a molding process while fluidic jets produce openings in the microelements. The structures used in the molding process are formed by tooling that creates the shapes of the microelements in a material deposition step, and also creates the sizes and shapes of the openings that will be formed by the fluidic jets.

 

US20040260251A1

Flexible substrate structure for microneedle arrays and its manufacturing method

Industrial Technology Research Institute

12/23/2004

The present invention is related to a flexible substrate structure for microneedle arrays and its manufacturing method, whose structure mainly comprising: tapered shape objects and flexible substrate. Wherein, structure of the tapered shape object is composed of a tip, sidewalls, and a base. Meanwhile, the flexible substrate winds tightly around sidewalls of tapered shape objects and is set up on, yet covers the base surface of tapered shape object which faces the tip of tapered shape object. Because the structure applies a flexible substrate along with tapered shape objects, hence, the fit-to-body capability is increased and allows thereof more appropriate for backside drug delivery, as well as sufficiently bring the characteristic of large-area manufacturing into full play.

 

US20040256248A1

System and method for analyte measurement using dose sufficiency electrodes

12/23/2004

A method of measuring an analyte in a biological fluid comprises applying an excitation signal having a DC component and an AC component. The AC and DC responses are measured; a corrected DC response is determined using the AC response; and a concentration of the analyte is determined based upon the corrected DC response. Other methods and devices are disclosed.

 

US20040249310A1

Biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices and methods

12/9/2004

A device for accessing biological fluid, sampling biological fluid constituents and determining the concentration of at least one target constituent within the accessed biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and to access biological fluid, a constituent sampling means and a constituent measuring means. The constituent sampling means comprises a constituent transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic gel material, by which sampled constituents are transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode through which at least one sampled constituent is caused to enter into the electrochemical cell. Methods of sampling constituents within the skin and measuring the sampled constituents, as well as kits for practicing the invention are provided.

 

US20040243063A1

Microneedle array module and method of fabricating the same

The Cleveland Clinic Foundation

12/2/2004

A microneedle array module is disclosed comprising a multiplicity of microneedles affixed to and protruding outwardly from a front surface of a substrate to form the array, each microneedle of the array having a hollow section which extends through its center to an opening in the tip thereof. A method of fabricating the microneedle array module is also disclosed comprising the steps of: providing etch resistant mask layers to one and another opposite surfaces of a substrate to predetermined thicknesses; patterning the etch resistant mask layer of the one surface for outer dimensions of the microneedles of the array; patterning the etch resistant mask layer of the other surface for inner dimensions of the microneedles of the array; etching unmasked portions of the substrate from one and the other surfaces to first and second predetermined depths, respectively; and removing the mask layers from the one and the other surfaces. One embodiment of the method includes the steps of: providing an etch resistant mask l

 

EP1482299A1

Test sensor and method for manufacturing the same

Bayer HealthCare LLC

12/1/2004

According to one embodiment of the present invention, an optical-based test sensor for use in the determination of an analyte in a liquid sample is disclosed. The test sensor includes a base, a polymer carrier, and a test membrane. The base has a capillary channel formed in a surface of the base that is adapted to move a liquid sample from an inlet to a reaction area formed in the base. The polymer carrier has a lower surface adhered to the surface of the base and is disposed over at least a portion of the capillary channel. The test membrane, which contains a reagent, is adhered to the lower surface of the polymer carrier and extends from the polymer carrier into the reaction area.

 

WO2004101023A2

A METHOD FOR ALTERING INSULIN PHARMACOKINETICS

BECTON DICKINSON AND COMPANY

11/25/2004

The present invention relates to methods for administration of insulin into the intradermal compartment of subject's skin, preferably to the dermal vasculature of the intradermal compartment. The methods of the present invention enhance the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of insulin delivery and effectively result in a superior clinical efficacy in the treatment and/or prevention of diabetes mellitus. The methods of the instant invention provide an improved glycemic control of both non-fasting (i. e., post-prandial) and fasting blood glucose levels and thus have an enhanced therapeutic efficacy in treatment, prevention and/or management of diabetes relative to traditional methods of insulin delivery, including subcutaneous insulin delivery.

 

EP1311310A4

MICRONEEDLE ARRAY MODULE AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME

11/24/2004

 

US6821450B2

Substrate and method of forming substrate for fluid ejection device

Hewlett Packard Development Company, L.P.

11/23/2004

A method of forming an opening through a substrate having a first side and a second side opposite the first side includes forming a trench in the first side of the substrate, forming a mask layer within the trench, forming at least one hole in the mask layer, filling the trench and the at least one hole, forming a first portion of the opening in the substrate from the second side of the substrate to the mask layer, and forming a second portion of the opening in the substrate from the second side of the substrate through the at least one hole in the mask layer to the first side of the substrate.

 

US6821281B2

Microstructures for treating and conditioning skin

The Procter & Gamble Company

11/23/2004

An improved method and apparatus is provided as a system to enhance skin appearance and health, in which skin is cleaned (or exfoliated) and conditioned by use of microelements affixed to a base element or hand-held patch. The dimensions of the microelements are controlled so as to remove a certain number of layers of skin cells and to accumulate those skin cells, along with other foreign substances, into areas between the microelements. In addition, a conditioning compound or therapeutic active can be applied to the exfoliated skin to enhance the skin. Moreover, the amount of accumulated skin cells represents a self-limiting maximum quantity that cannot be substantially exceeded regardless of the number of attempts by a user to re-use the microstructure apparatus.

 

US20040222349A1

Method and apparatus for manufacturing a device

11/11/2004

A device, preferably a micro-device, is molded from a plastic material by injection molding, compression molding or embossing. A microabrader can be molded having microneedles for abrading the stratum corneum of the skin to form an abraded site in the tissue for enhancing drug delivery. The micro-device is molded using a mold assembly having a silicon molding surface. The silicon molding surface can include a recess corresponding to the desired shape and length of the microneedles. The silicon molding surface enables micron and submicron size features to be molded from polymeric materials without the polymeric material adhering to the mold surface. Micro-devices having molded features having micron and submicron dimensions can be rapidly produced without the use of a release agent.

 

US20040220622A1

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

MATTIOLI ENGINEERING LTD.

11/4/2004

A treatment method and apparatus for providing a substance to be absorbed onto a surface of a patient's skin, includes applying the substance onto the surface of the patient's skin by way of a probe head that provides, at the same time: i) bursts of electrical pulses to the skin surface, and ii) vibrations to the skin surface. The vibrations are applied to the skin surface at substantially a same frequency rate, a first harmonic of the same frequency rate, and/or a second harmonic of the same frequency rate, as a burst rate of electrical pulses being applied to the skin surface.

 

EP1471953A2

GAS PRESSURE ACTUATED MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS, AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO SAME

Biovalve Technologies, Inc.

11/3/2004

The microneedle devices disclosed herein in some embodiments include a substrate; one or more microneedles; a reservoir for delivery of drugs; a gas source, and, optionally, pump(s), sensor(s), and/or microprocessor(s) to control the interaction of the foregoing.

 

WO2004008248A3

A METHOD OF FORMING A MOLD AND MOLDING A MICRO-DEVICE

BECTON DICKINSON AND COMPANY

10/28/2004

A method of forming a device including a plurality of micron or sub-micron sized features is provided. A master having a surface contour defining a plurality of features is provided. The surface contour of the master is coated with at least one layer of material to form a shell. The master is removed from the shell to form a negative image of the surface contour in the shell. The negative image in the shell is filled with material, for example, polycarbonate, polyacrylic, or polystyrene, to form a device having features substantially the same as the master. The negative image may be filled using injection molding, compression molding, embossing or any other compatible technique.

 

WO2004086970A1

METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PUNCTURING AND MEASURING DEVICE

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

10/14/2004

The invention relates to a method for producing combined puncturing and measuring devices for detection of an analyte in liquid. The combined puncturing and measuring devices comprise a support (1) and a detection element (22). Recesses (11) which define puncturing points (16) are formed on one face (9) of the band-shaped support material (1). A detection element (22) is applied to the band-shaped support material (1). Individual puncturing/measuring disposable bodies (69 are separated either singly or in groups from the band-shaped support material (1) at a separating line (5; 24, 25).

 

WO2004062899A3

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING OF POLYMER MICRO NEEDLE ARRAY WITH LIGA PROCESS

LEE, Seung-seob

10/7/2004

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a micro needle array with an X-ray process. The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a micro needle array, comprising the steps of preparing an X-ray mask by forming an absorber having a configuration of the micro needle array on a substrate; preparing a PMMA cast for the micro needle array by exposing PMMA to vertical an inclined X-rays using the X-ray mask; preparing a flexible PDMS mold having a configuration opposite to that of the PMMA cast by pouring PDMS on the PMMA cast; filling an upper surface of the PDMS mold with a gel type of polymer to obtain a desired thickness of the polymer; patterning a desired configuration of a hole by irradiating UV rays on the polymer; and separating the PDMS mold to complete th polymer micro needle array. The micro needle array of the present invention is made of a polymer material and can be used for drawing blood from or injecting a medicine into the skin.

 

US20040199103A1

Solid solution perforator for drug delivery and other applications

10/7/2004

A solid drug perforator (SSP) system and an associated drug reservoir are provided for delivering theraputic, prophylactic and/or cosmetic compounds, for nutrient delivery and for drug targeting. For drug delivery, the SSP system includes an active drug ingredient and a matrix of perforator material that biodegrades or dissolves quickly upon contact with a patient's body. The SSP system provides a skin barrier perforator and a controller for prompt initiation and cut-off of drug delivery. In a preferred method of transdermal drug delivery, an SSP system containing a selected drug penetrates into an epidermis or dermis, and the drug is promptly released from the (dissolving) SSP system perforator. An additional drug is optionally delivered from a patch reservoir through skin pores created by insertion of the perforator. Formulation and fabrication procedures for the SSP and associated reservoir are also provided. An SSP system can be fabricated with variety of shapes and dimensions.

 

US20040195718A1

Method and system having a flowable pressure pad for consolidating an uncured laminate sheet in a cure process

10/7/2004

A method and system (10) having a flowable pressure pad ( 22) for consolidating an uncured laminate sheet (14) during a cure cycle is provided. The system (10) includes an autoclave machine (12) for utilizing a pinmat (20) for to perforate and consolidate the sheet (14). This pinmat (20) has a mat portion (28) and a plurality of pins (26) extending from the mat portion (28). These pins (26) are intended to penetrate the uncured laminate sheet (14) during a perforation cycle that occurs prior to the cure cycle. During the cure cycle, the autoclave machine (12) applies a predetermined amount of and pressure heat to the pressure pad (22) for a predetermined amount of time so as to cause the pressure pad (22) to flow around the protruding pins (26). This feature allows the pressure pad ( 22) to transfer a substantial portion of the applied pressure to the uncured laminate sheet (14) so as to improve consolidation of the sheet (14). In this regard, less pressure is unintentionally transferred to the protruding pin

 

US6797276B1

Use of penetration enhancers and barrier disruption agents to enhance the transcutaneous immune response

The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army

9/28/2004

A transcutaneous immunization system where the topical application of an adjuvant and an antigen or nucleic acid encoding for an antigen, to intact skin induces a ystemic or mucosol antibody response. The immune response so elicited can be enhanced by physical or chemical skin penetration enhancement.

 

WO2004080306A1

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PIERCING DERMAL TISSUE

LIFESCAN, INC.

9/23/2004

A system (100) for piercing dermal tissue includes a skin-piercing element (102) (e.g., an integrated micro-needle and biosensor medical device), at least one electrical contact (104) (e.g., an electrical skin contact) and a meter (106) configured for measuring an electrical characteristic (e.g., resistance and/or impedance) existent between the skin-piercing element and the electrical contact(s) when the system is in use. The electrical contact(s) can be integrated with a pressure/contact ring of the meter to provide a compact and inexpensive system compatible with integrated micro-needle and biosensor medical devices. Also, a method for piercing dermal tissue that includes contacting dermal tissue (e.g., skin) with at least one electrical contact and inserting a skin-piercing element into the dermal tissue while measuring an electrical characteristic existent between the skin-piercing element and the electrical contact(s).

 

US20040186419A1

Microneedles for minimally invasive drug delivery

9/23/2004

The present invention provides a microneedle incorporating a base that is broad relative to a height of the microneedle, to minimize breakage. The microneedle further includes a fluid channel and a beveled non-coring tip. Preferably arrays of such microneedles are fabricated utilizing conventional semiconductor derived micro-scale fabrication techniques. A dot pattern mask is formed on an upper surface of a silicon substrate, with each orifice of the dot pattern mask corresponding to a desired location of a microneedle. Orifices are formed that pass completely through the substrate by etching. A nitride pattern mask is formed to mask all areas in which a nitride layer is not desired. A nitride layer is then deposited on the bottom of the silicon substrate, on the walls of the orifice, and on the top of the silicon substrate around the periphery of the orifice. The nitride layer around the periphery of the orifice is offset somewhat, such that one side of the orifice has a larger nitride layer. Anisotropic etc

 

US20040186394A1

Integrated lancing test strip

9/23/2004

An integrated bodily fluid sampling device is used to sample a bodily fluid from an incision in skin. The device includes a lancet for forming the incision in the skin. A housing is coupled to the lancet. The housing defines at least in part a capillary channel with an opening. The capillary channel is sized to draw the bodily fluid from the incision via capillary action. A test strip is positioned along the capillary channel for analyzing the fluid. In one form, a flexible sheet extends from the housing proximal the opening of the capillary channel for drawing the bodily fluid into the opening of the capillary channel. In another form, the lancet is slidably received inside the channel. During lancing, the lancet extends from the housing to form the incision. Fluid from the incision is drawn into the channel and is deposited on the test strip for analysis.

 

DE10305831A1

Diagnosegerдt

Siemens AG

9/23/2004

Ein Diagnosegerдt (1), insbesondere fьr medizintechnische Anwendungen, weist ein Mikronadelfeld (3), eine dieses tragende, vorzugsweise als Handschuh ausgebildete Haltevorrichtung (2), eine mit dem Mikronadelfeld (3) verbundene Datenaufnahmevorrichtung (6), eine mit dieser verbundene Datenauswertevorrichtung (7) sowie eine mit dieser verbundene Anzeigevorrichtung (8) an der Haltevorrichtung (2) auf.

 

US6793632B2

Percutaneous biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices and methods

LifeScan, Inc.

9/21/2004

A device for sampling at least one biological fluid constituent and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one micro-needle having an open distal end used to penetrate the skin to a depth where pain and bleeding are minimized. The device further includes a hydrophilic gel within the micro-needle for sampling the biological fluid constituents and an electrochemical cell for measuring the concentration of targeted constituents within the sampled biological fluid constituents. In certain embodiments, the electrochemical cell is integrated within the micro-needle whereby the steps of sampling and measuring are performed completely in-situ. In other embodiments, the electrochemical cell is located external to the micro-needle at its proximal end. Constituent sampling and measurement systems, methods and kits are also provided.

 

US6792315B2

Electro therapy method and apparatus

Biowave Corporation

9/14/2004

An apparatus for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient is disclosed, which provides two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

 

US6790372B2

Microneedle array module and method of fabricating the same

Cleveland Clinic Foundation

9/14/2004

A microneedle array module is disclosed comprising a multiplicity of microneedles affixed to and protruding outwardly from a front surface of a substrate to form the array, each microneedle of the array having a hollow section which extends through its center to an opening in the tip thereof. A method of fabricating the microneedle array module is also disclosed comprising the steps of: providing etch resistant mask layers to one and another opposite surfaces of a substrate to predetermined thicknesses; patterning the etch resistant mask layer of the one surface for outer dimensions of the microneedles of the array; patterning the etch resistant mask layer of the other surface for inner dimensions of the microneedles of the array; etching unmasked portions of the substrate from one and the other surfaces to first and second predetermined depths, respectively; and removing the mask layers from the one and the other surfaces. One embodiment of the method includes the steps of: providing an etch resistant mask l

 

US6790179B2

Method of examining and diagnosing skin health

Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.

9/14/2004

The present invention relates to a method of examining skin health in a subject, the method including the steps of: accessing a sample of interstitial fluid from the skin of the subject; and measuring the amount of a skin analyte in the sample.

 

WO2004075971A1

MICROSEEDING DEVICE FOR GENE DELIVERY BY MICRONEEDLE INJECTION

APPLIED TISSUE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

9/10/2004

An apparatus is provided to enable the direct gene transfer of genetic material into a target cell site ( microseeding")

 as a means of obtaining long term expression of native or non-native polypeptides in a host. The apparatus includes a matrix of microneedles that oscillate at a predetermined frequency and receive the genetic material from a delivery system that is integrated with the apparatus."

US20040176706A1

Diagnostic article

9/9/2004

A diagnostic article, in particular for medical applications, includes a microneedle array and a holding device supporting the microneedle array. The holding device is designed as a glove. The diagnostic article further includes a data recording device connected to the microneedle array, a data evaluation device connected to the data recording device, and a display device arranged on the holding device and connected to said data evaluation device.

 

US6780171B2

Intradermal delivery device

Becton, Dickinson and Company

8/24/2004

A delivery device for delivering a substance intradermally into the skin of a patient including a housing for contacting the surface of the skin and a disposable cartridge to be received in the housing. The cartridge includes an internal reservoir containing a substance to be delivered to the patient, a plurality of micro skin penetrating members and a fluid channel extending between the micro skin penetrating members and the reservoir. The housing includes a bottom wall with a central opening and a cover member. The cartridge is positioned in the housing with the micro skin penetrating members extending through the central opening of the bottom wall and positioned on the surface of the skin of a patient. The cover is closed onto the cartridge to dispense the substance from the cartridge through the micro skin penetrating members and into or through the skin of the patient.

 

US20040162474A1

Percutaneous biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

8/19/2004

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one electrochemical cell having an inner electrode and an outer electrode in a concentrically-spaced relationship. In a preferred embodiment, the outer electrode has a cylindrical configuration having an open distal end and the inner electrode has an elongated configuration positioned co-axially within the outer electrode and a distal end configured to penetrate the skin. The spacing between the electrodes exerts a capillary force on biological fluid present at the open distal end of the outer electrode. A system is also provided which includes a control unit in electrical communication with the electrochemical cell for controlling the selection and measurement of the target constituent. Methods of sampling of biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices and/or systems

 

EP1266608A3

Biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

Lifescan, Inc.

8/4/2004

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring a target analyte within the biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and access biological fluid, a sampling means and a measuring means. The sampling means comprises a fluid transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic porous material, by which sampled biological fluid is transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode and, typically, a reagent material, where the electrochemical cell is configured so as to make an electrochemical measurement of a target analyte in accessed biological fluid present therein. Methods of sampling biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices.

 

WO2004063350A2

HIGHLY CONTROLLABLE ELECTROPORATION AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF

REVEO, INC. | FARIS, Sadeg, M.

7/29/2004

The controllable electroporation system and method described herein allows control over the size, the number, the location, and the distribution of aqueous pores, thus increasing flexibility of use. The herein described system and method for controllable electroporation generally employs at least two actuating sub-systems and sub-processes. One sub-system and sub-process employs a relatively broad effect in order to weaken the membrane, a broad effect sub-system. Another sub-system and sub-process employs a relatively narrow effect in order to localize the position of the pore in the membrane, a narrow effect sub-system.

 

WO2004062899A2

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING OF POLYMER MICRO NEEDLE ARRAY WITH LIGA PROCESS

LEE, Seung-seob | MOON, Sang-Joon

7/29/2004

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a micro needle array with an X-ray process. The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a micro needle array, comprising the steps of preparing an X-ray mask by forming an absorber having a configuration of the micro needle array on a substrate; preparing a PMMA cast for the micro needle array by exposing PMMA to vertical an inclined X-rays using the X-ray mask; preparing a flexible PDMS mold having a configuration opposite to that of the PMMA cast by pouring PDMS on the PMMA cast; filling an upper surface of the PDMS mold with a gel type of polymer to obtain a desired thickness of the polymer; patterning a desired configuration of a hole by irradiating UV rays on the polymer; and separating the PDMS mold to complete th polymer micro needle array. The micro needle array of the present invention is made of a polymer material and can be used for drawing blood from or injecting a medicine into the skin.

 

US6767341B2

Microneedles for minimally invasive drug delivery

Abbott Laboratories

7/27/2004

The present invention provides a microneedle incorporating a base that is broad relative to a height of the microneedle, to minimize breakage. The microneedle further includes a fluid channel and a beveled non-coring tip. Preferably arrays of such microneedles are fabricated utilizing conventional semiconductor derived micro-scale fabrication techniques. A dot pattern mask is formed on an upper surface of a silicon substrate, with each orifice of the dot pattern mask corresponding to a desired location of a microneedle. Orifices are formed that pass completely through the substrate by etching. A nitride pattern mask is formed to mask all areas in which a nitride layer is not desired. A nitride layer is then deposited on the bottom of the silicon substrate, on the walls of the orifice, and on the top of the silicon substrate around the periphery of the orifice. The nitride layer around the periphery of the orifice is offset somewhat, such that one side of the orifice has a larger nitride layer. Anisotropic etc

 

US20040143211A1

Substance delivery via a rotating microabrading surface

7/22/2004

A method and device for the delivery of a substance into skin via the rotational movement of a microabrader device reduces the effects of operator variability. The method includes applying a substance to an area of a patient's skin through the rotational movement of microprotrusions. The movement of the microprotrusions can be imparted by a spring device or the like present in the microabrader device or the motion of the operator through the handle of the microabrader device. The rotational motion localizes the administration of the drug or vaccine dosage in the abraded skin area. The device can include means for monitoring pressure of the device against the skin and thereby promote consistency between applications and control of penetration depth. The substance, drug or vaccine may be placed on the microprotrusions and a reconstituting liquid included in the microabrader device.

 

US20040141027A1

Substrate and method of forming substrate for fluid ejection device

7/22/2004

A method of forming an opening through a substrate having a first side and a second side opposite the first side includes forming a trench in the first side of the substrate, forming a mask layer within the trench, forming at least one hole in the mask layer, filling the trench and the at least one hole, forming a first portion of the opening in the substrate from the second side of the substrate to the mask layer, and forming a second portion of the opening in the substrate from the second side of the substrate through the at least one hole in the mask layer to the first side of the substrate.

 

EP1266607A3

Percutaneous biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices and methods

Lifescan, Inc.

7/21/2004

A device for sampling at least one biological fluid constituent and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one micro-needle having an open distal end used to penetrate the skin to a depth where pain and bleeding are minimized. The device further includes a hydrophilic gel within the micro-needle for sampling the biological fluid constituents and an electrochemical cell for measuring the concentration of targeted constituents within the sampled biological fluid constituents. In certain embodiments, the electrochemical cell is integrated within the micro-needle whereby the steps of sampling and measuring are performed completely in-situ. In other embodiments, the electrochemical cell is located external to the micro-needle at its proximal end. Constituent sampling and measurement systems, methods and kits are also provided.

 

US20040131687A1

Photokinetic delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light

7/8/2004

The invention relates generally to transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances through the skin, sub-dermal tissues, blood vessels and cellular membranes without causing damage to the cellular surface, tissue or membrane. The invention provides compositions and methods for enhanced transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light. The invention further provides a device for the application of the pulsed incoherent light to cellular surfaces and membranes using those compositions and methods.

 

US6760627B2

Electro therapy method and apparatus

Biowave Corporation

7/6/2004

An electro-therapy apparatus and method for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient, having means for providing two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus and method requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

 

Development of patterns for nanoscale strain measurements: I. Fabrication of imprinted Au webs for polymeric materials.      Collette, S. A.; Sutton, M. A.; Miney, P.; Reynolds, A. P.; Li, Xiaodong; Colavita, P. E.; Scrivens, W. A.; Luo, Y.; Sudarshan, T.; Muzykov, P.; Myrick, M. L.    Department of Mechanical Engineering,  University of South Carolina,  Columbia,  SC,  USA.    Nanotechnology  (2004),  15(12),  1812-1817.  Publisher: Institute of Physics Publishing,  CODEN: NNOTER  ISSN: 0957-4484.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 143:307006    AN 2005:115163    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A method is presented for patterning polymers with nanoscale gold networks and using the pattern to measure strain in the polymer.  A gold film is first coated on a porous alumina template.  After coating, the template is impressed into a polymer, and the template is dissolved to leave a continuous metal network on or slightly below the surface of the polymer.  The network has a random structure and is elec. conductive and has potential applicability to structural health monitoring.  We show that it can be used as a means of measuring deformation through changes in elec. cond. and continuity and also as a means to measure local material response during controlled loading.

 

Electrochemical self-assembly of porous alumina templates.      Sadasivan, V.; Richter, C. P.; Menon, L.; Williams, P. F.    Dept. of Chemical Engineering,  University of Nebraska-Lincoln,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    AIChE Journal  (2005),  51(2),  649-655.  Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.,  CODEN: AICEAC  ISSN: 0001-1541.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 142:305469    AN 2005:101428    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Porous alumina templates are fabricated by anodization of Al in an acid.  The characteristics of the template, such as the pore diam., interpore sepn., and the periodicity of the porous structure depend on the conditions of anodization and the acid that is used as electrolyte.  The variation of pore diam. and interpore sepn. as a function of anodization parameters are described.  The use of porous alumina templates as masks to assemble nanoarrays is an important application and the deposition of Au nanodots on a surface of Si is discussed.

 

WO2004108204

Process for producing pad base for transdermal drug administration, pad base for transdermal drug administration, and needle.      

Medrx Co., Ltd., Japan   

Abstract:  In the conventional micropatch method, the skin is pricked with solid needles, and vibration is applied by means of a vibrator so as to increase the needle-skin interstice to thereby accomplish drug administration.  In the invention, there are provided a pad base for transdermal drug administration whereby transdermal administration of a medicinal drug can be accomplished without need to apply vibration, and provided a process wherein the pad base can easily be produced.  One end of each of metal thin wires is immersed in the vertical direction in a synthetic resin raw material soln. so as to cause the synthetic resin raw material soln. to adhere to the circumference of the metal thin wires.  The synthetic resin raw material soln. is hardened, and thereafter the metal thin wires are pulled out.  Thus, there can be obtained a structure comprising adherent substrate (2) and, disposed erect on the skin side surface thereof, microneedles (1) being tubular and having bell-bottom outer wall.  Medicinal drug charged in the hollow portion (3) of microneedles (1) can be injected in the skin, thereby effecting transdermal drug administration.  Further, the microneedles (1) are resistant to breaking off because of the bell-bottom shaping.  Thus, a pad base for transdermal drug administration was prepd. with polylactic acid.

 

Growth characteristics of oxide during prolonged anodization of aluminum in preparing ordered nanopore arrays.      Wu, M. T.; Leu, I. C.; Hon, M. H.    Department of Materials Science and Engineering,  National Cheng Kung University,  Tainan,  Taiwan.    Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology, B: Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures--Processing, Measurement, and Phenomena  (2004),  22(5),  2326-2332.  Publisher: American Institute of Physics,  CODEN: JVSTBM  ISSN: 1071-1023.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 142:305468    AN 2004:997547    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  In this study, one-step anodization was conducted on both mech. polished and electropolished Al foils at different temps. to examine their growth characteristics during prolonged anodization.  Several unusual phenomena different from those reported previously were obsd., esp. for the prepn. of ordered pore arrays on electropolished Al foils.  First, under a const. voltage condition, a continuous increase of the oxidn. current with fluctuation was obsd. in a prolonged period of anodization at high temps.  Second, the ordered pore arrangement of the oxide initially obtained on the electropolished Al foil anodized at 25 C was found to become disordered after being anodized for 72 h.  Third, the total film thickness increased in the beginning and decreased in the prolonged period when the anodization was conducted at a high temp.  Thus, it is concluded that a highly ordered pore configuration with a large aspect ratio could only be obtained on the electropolished substrate by anodizing for a moderate period of time at low temps.

 

Feature-oriented scanning methodology for probe microscopy and nanotechnology.      Lapshin, Rostislav V.    Solid Nanotechnology Laboratory,  Institute of Physical Problems,  Moscow,  Russia.    Nanotechnology  (2004),  15(9),  1135-1151.  Publisher: Institute of Physics Publishing,  CODEN: NNOTER  ISSN: 0957-4484.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 143:103933    AN 2004:909417    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A real-time scanning algorithm is suggested which uses features of the surface as ref. points at relative movements.  Generally defined hill- or pit-like topog. elements are taken as the features.  The operation of the algorithm is based upon local recognition of the features and their connection to each other.  The permissible class of surfaces includes ordered, partially ordered, or disordered surfaces if their features have comparable extents in the scan plane.  The method allows one to exclude the neg. influence of thermo-drift, creep, and hysteresis over the performance of a scanning probe microscope.  Owing to the possibility of carrying out an unlimited no. of avs., the precision of measurements can be considerably increased.  The distinctive feature of the method is its ability of topog. reconstruction when the ultimate details are smaller than those detectable by a conventional microscope scan.  The suggested approach eliminates the restrictions on scan size.  Nonlinearity, nonorthogonality, cross coupling of manipulators, as well as the Abbe offset error, are cor. with the use of scan-space-distributed calibration coeffs. which are detd. automatically in the course of measuring a std. surface by the given method.  The ways of precise probe positioning by local surface features within the fine manipulator field and the coarse manipulator field, automatic probe return into the operational zone after sample dismounting, automatic detn. of exact relative position of the probes in multi-probe instruments, as well as automatic successive application of the whole set of probes to the same object on the surface are proposed.  The possibility of performing accurately localized low-noise spectroscopy is demonstrated.  The developed methodol. is applicable for any scanning probe devices.

 

Strategies to avoid structuring during electropolishing.      Buhlert, Magnus; Plath, Peter J.; Visser, Andreas.    Institut fuer Angewandte und Physikalische Chemie - AG Chemische Synergetik,  Universitaet Bremen,  Bremen,  Germany.    Jahrbuch Oberflaechentechnik  (2004),  60  172-176.  Publisher: Giesel Verlag GmbH,  CODEN: JBOFAN  ISSN: 0075-2819.  Journal; General Review  written in German.    CAN 141:284441    AN 2004:709969    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A review.  Strategies to avoid the formation of surface structures during electropolishing are described.  Topics discussed include classification of shape deviations, possibilities to avoid visible structures (shape differences, undulations and gas tracks, smaller structures), and influence of workpiece motion (set-up of test equipment, occurrence of gas tracking).  Methods to avoid structuring include specially designed cathodes and suitable movement of the workpiece.

 

Metal Latticeworks Formed by Self-Organization in Oscillatory Electrodeposition.      Nakanishi, Shuji; Fukami, Kazuhiro; Tada, Toshio; Nakato, Yoshihiro.    Division of Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering Science,  Osaka University,  Toyonaka, Osaka,  Japan.    Journal of the American Chemical Society  (2004),  126(31),  9556-9557.  Publisher: American Chemical Society,  CODEN: JACSAT  ISSN: 0002-7863.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 141:250332    AN 2004:566903    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Strikingly well-ordered Sn latticeworks, standing perpendicular to the substrate, are formed spontaneously in oscillatory electrodeposition.  Cooperation of various processes, such as needle formation by autocatalytic crystal growth, cuboid formation under a reaction-limited condition, and autocatalytic oxidn. at closest-packed surfaces, enabled the self-organization of the latticeworks.  The mechanism is generally applicable to deposition of other metals such as Zn, Pb, and Cu.  The present work has opened a promising, unique field toward the formation of highly ordered 3-D micro- or nanostructures at solid surfaces.  Tin electrodeposition on polycryst. Sn disk in bath contg. 0.2M Sn(II) and 4M NaOH during potential oscillations and the Sn latticeworks is discussed.

 

US20040126707A1

Method for manufacturing 3-D high aspect-ratio microneedle array device

Industrial Technology Research Institute

7/1/2004

A method for manufacturing a 3-D high aspect-ratio microneedle array device, comprising steps of: providing a substrate, with a photoresist layer coated thereon; performing photolithography on the photoresist layer by using a gray-tone mask so as to form a patterned photoresist layer; performing high-selectivity etching on the patterned photoresist layer and the substrate by using inductively coupled plasma etching so as to transfer the pattern onto the substrate and form a structure; applying a material on the structure; and de-molding the structure from the substrate.

 

Self-organized nanostructures in multi-phase epilayers.      Kim, Dongchoul; Lu, Wei.    Department of Mechanical Engineering,  University of Michigan,  Ann Arbor,  MI,  USA.    Nanotechnology  (2004),  15(5),  667-674.  Publisher: Institute of Physics Publishing,  CODEN: NNOTER  ISSN: 0957-4484.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 142:323527    AN 2004:523845    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Recent expts. showed that multi-phase epilayers may self-organize into ordered nanoscale patterns on a solid substrate.  The authors present a phase field model for the self-assembly of 3-phase epilayers.  Nanoscale patterns are developed by 2 competing actions: coarsening due to phase boundary energy and refining due to substrate-mediated elastic interaction.  The continuum phase field approach leads to a set of nonlinear diffusion equations, which couples the 2 concn. fields in the epilayer and the stress field in the substrate.  Numerical simulations reveal remarkably rich dynamics in the self-assembly of multi-phase epilayers.  An epilayer may evolve into various patterns, suggesting a significant degree of exptl. control in growing nanoscale structures.

 

Pattern selection with anisotropy during aluminum electropolishing.      Guo, Weidong; Johnson, Duane T.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  University of Alabama,  Tuscaloosa,  AL,  USA.    Journal of Crystal Growth  (2004),  268(1-2),  258-271.  Publisher: Elsevier,  CODEN: JCRGAE  ISSN: 0022-0248.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 141:210834    AN 2004:519586    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The effect of anisotropic interfacial energy on nanoscale pattern formation during the electropolishing of aluminum was investigated.  The anisotropic evolution equation of the aluminum interface was derived by including the effects of interfacial energy with cubic anisotropy.  The special cases of [111], [110], and [100] directions are considered.  A linear stability anal. was used to predict the growth rate at the max. wave no., and a weakly nonlinear anal. was used to predict the type and stability of the patterns,i.e., hexagons or stripes.  Increasing the interfacial energy can extend the stability range of hexagons.  When the interfacial energy is high enough, only stable hexagons exist for the [111] and [100] directions.  Previous studies have shown that electropolished [111] aluminum exhibits stable hexagons and stripes, depending on the alignment of the hexagonal array with respect to the crystal axes, while [110] produces only striped patterns.  For the [100] direction, anisotropy has no effect and an isotropic soln. result.  The theor. predictions agree qual. with the existing expts.

 

Fabrication of nanoscale vertical colloid device architectures.      Parker, A. J.; Childs, P. A.; Palmer, R. E.    Emerging Devices Technology Research Group,  School of Engineering, Electronic, Electrical and Computing Engineering,  Birmingham,  UK.    Microelectronic Engineering  (2004),  73-74  542-546.  Publisher: Elsevier Science B.V.,  CODEN: MIENEF  ISSN: 0167-9317.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 142:83071    AN 2004:419510    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The design, fabrication and preliminary testing of a vertical nanodevice comprising an active region of gold colloidal nanoparticles deposited within a silicon nanopillar architecture is presented.  Each step of the fabrication is a parallel process, starting with the prodn. of an array of silicon pillars using natural lithog. techniques.  Elec. measurements through a small array of these pillars show linear behavior in the current-voltage curves, which lead to a pillar resistance value fully commensurate with the known geometry.  The results in this paper show the fabrication at each stage, and when combined with characterization data represent a demonstration of the proof of principle of our approach.

 

EP1430831A1

Method for manufacturing a sterilized and calibrated biosensor-based medical device

LifeScan, Inc.

6/23/2004

A method for manufacturing a sterilized and calibrated biosensor-based medical device (e.g., an integrated biosensor and lancet medical device) includes sterilizing a biosensor-based medical device that contains a biosensor reagent composition (e.g., an analyte specific enzyme and mediator biosensor reagent composition). The sterilizing can be accomplished using, for example, a gamma radiation based technique. Thereafter, the biosensor reagent composition of the sterilized biosensor-based medical device is calibrated. Another method for manufacturing a sterilized and calibrated biosensor-based medical device includes first assembling and packaging a plurality of biosensor-based medical devices that include a biosensor reagent composition. The packaged biosensor-based medical devices are then sterilized using a radiation-based sterilization technique, to create a plurality of sterilized, packaged biosensor-based medical devices. Thereafter, the sterilized and packaged biosensor-based medical devices are calibr

 

WO2004049945A1

DUAL BLADE LANCING TEST STRIP

ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS GMBH | F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG

6/17/2004

An integrated lancing test strip (20) includes a pair of blade members (22, 24) that each have a lancing tip (32) that are configured to lance skin. A pair of spacer members (26, 28) connect the blade members (22, 24) together such that the blade members (22, 24) define an internal capillary (30). A test strip (38) is positioned along the internal capillary (30), and the test strip (38) is configured to test analyte levels in the bodily fluid. During use, the lancing tips (32) form one or more incisions in the skin. The fluid from the incisions is drawn via capillary action through the internal capillary (30) and onto the test strip (38).

 

US6749792B2

Micro-needles and methods of manufacture and use thereof

LifeScan, Inc.

6/15/2004

A micro-needle is provided which is particularly useful for the minimally invasive sampling of a biological fluid and/or the minimally invasive delivery of a drug or other formulation across the skin. The micro-needle has a structure having a base at a proximal end and a vertex at a distal end, and an open lumen extending there through and through which fluid may be transferred. The structure defines a structural axis that intersects the lumenal axis defined by the open lumen. The point of intersection between these axes is at a point below the vertex of the micro-needle to provide a sharp apex at the distal end of the micro-needle and defines the general configuration of the distal end of the micro-needle, which may be selected or customized depending on the intended use of the microneedle. The micro-needle may be integral with a measurement device for measuring the concentration of a constituent within sampled biological fluid and/or with a fluid reservoir for containing a fluid to be delivered, and may als

 

US20040106941A1

Dual blade lancing test strip

6/3/2004

An integrated lancing test strip includes a pair of blade members that each have a lancing tip that are configured to lance skin. A pair of spacer members connect the blade members together such that the blade members define an internal capillary. A test strip is positioned along the internal capillary, and the test strip is configured to test analyte levels in the bodily fluid. During use, the lancing tips form one or more incisions in the skin. The fluid from the incisions is drawn via capillary action through the internal capillary and onto the test strip.

 

US6743215B2

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and cellulite reduction

Mattioli Engineering Ltd.

6/1/2004

Application of electrical pulses and mechanical vibrations to the skin is provided in a controlled manner, in order to increase the absorption of substances applied previously on the skin. A dermabrasion treatment is first performed on a region of the skin to be later given a skin absorption enhancement treatment. After the dermabrasion treatment, electrical pulses are provided to the skin by way of an array of electrodes disposed on a vibrating head, and the mechanical vibrations are provided to the skin by way of the vibrating head being made to vibrate. Preferably, the electrical and mechanical vibrations are at the same frequency and phase with respect to each other, in order to increase the absorption effect. Also, a suction may be applied to the skin, in order to provide for a substantially uniform absorption of the substance that was applied previously on the skin.

 

US20040094503A1

Microfabrication method based on metal matrix composite technology

5/20/2004

A method of fabricating microstructural components, microparts assemblies and microparts is disclosed. The method includes fabricating a unidirectional metal matrix composite made of materials selected to allow precise etching of different structural elements of the given composite without damage to each other. Cutting a composite to form slices or sections. Etching a matrix entirely out will produce wide assortment of microparts. Partial removal of matrix will form an array of microprotrusions protruding from a substrate. Etching out the microprotrusions cores will form hollow microprotrusions. The method of invention is suitable for fabricating of variety of microcomponents. For example: microneedles--a medical microdevice component having micron features, arrays of high strength micropins and micropunches, and precisely controlled unique microstructural surfaces.

 

US20040092995A1

Method and apparatus for body fluid sampling with improved sensing

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

5/13/2004

A device is provided for use with a body fluid sampling device for extracting bodily fluid from an anatomical feature. The device comprises a cartridge having a plurality of cavities. The device may include a plurality of penetrating members each at least partially contained in the cavities of the cartridge wherein the penetrating members are slidably movable to extend outward from openings on the cartridge to penetrate tissue. The device may also include a plurality of analyte detecting members and a plurality of chambers. Each chamber may be associated with one of the cavities, the chambers positioned along an outer periphery of the cartridge, wherein at least one of said analyte detecting members forms a portion of one wall of one of said plurality of chambers. In one embodiment, the device may also include a fluid spreader positioned over at least a portion of said analyte detecting member to urge fluid toward one of the detecting members.

 

US20040087893A1

Solid solution perforator for drug delivery and other applications

5/6/2004

A solid drug solution perforator (SSP) system and an associated drug reservoir are provided for delivering therapeutic, prophylactic and/or cosmetic compounds, for nutrient delivery and for drug targeting. For drug delivery, the SSP system includes an active drug ingredient and a matrix of perforator material that biodegrades or dissolves quickly upon contact with a patient's body. The SSP system provides a skin barrier perforator and a controller for prompt initiation and cut-off drug delivery. In a preferred method of transdermal drug delivery, an SSP system containing a selected drug penetrates into an epidermis or dermis, and the drug is promptly released from the (dissolving) SSP system perforator. An additional drug is optionally delivered from a patch reservoir through skin pores created by insertion of the perforator. Formulation and fabrication procedures for the SSP and associated reservoir are also provided. An SSP system can be fabricated with variety of shapes and dimensions.

 

EP1413923A2

Nano-imprinting stamp

Hewlett Packard Development Company, L.P.

4/28/2004

A micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 and method of making a micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 are disclosed. A micro-casting technique is used to form a foundation layer 11 and a plurality of nano-sized features 12 connected with the foundation layer 11. The foundation layer 11 and the nano-sized features 12 are unitary whole that is made entirely from a material comprising silicon carbide (SiC) which is harder than silicon (Si) alone. As a result, the micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 has a longer service lifetime because it can endure several imprinting cycles without wearing out or breaking. The longer service lifetime makes the micro-casted silicon carbide nano-imprinting stamp 10 economically feasible to manufacture as the manufacturing cost can be recouped over the service lifetime.

 

WO2004034024A2

A LANCET SYSTEM INCLUDING TEST STRIPS AND CASSETTES FOR DRAWING AND SAMPLING BODILY MATERIAL

CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | GIRAUD, Jean-Pierre

4/22/2004

A lancet suited for use in drawing blood or other bodily fluid, wherein the lancer: is provided with a region where a chemical reagent resides, the chemical reagent including one or more agents that react with at least one constituent of the bodily fluid to ascertain information about the bodily fluid from which it was drawn, the lancet has a body and a head that is provided with a relatively sharp tip for penetrating the skin of the person, the tip is provided with at least one channel or groove in fluid communication with the area where the chemical reagent is positioned, the channel or groove transports the fluid from the tip to the area where the chemical reagent is positioned, the channels extend between the tip of the lancet and the recess, an electroconductive ink is positioned on the lancet wherein the ink is patterned into electrical contacts, part of which extend into the area where the chemical reagent is deposited and a part of which extend to a location away from the area where the chemical reage

 

WO2004033021A1

MICRONEEDLE ARRAY PATCH

BIOVALVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

4/22/2004

Microneedle devices for transport of molecules, including drugs and biological molecules, across tissue, are provided. The microneedle devices permit drug delivery or removal of body fluids at clinically relevant rates across skin or other tissue barriers, with minimal or no damage, pain, or irritation to the tissue. Microneedles can be formed of biodegradable or non-biodegradable polymeric materials or metals. In a preferred embodiment, a microneedle device includes a plugging element comprising a platform including a plurality of microneedle plugs for preventing skin or other tissue barriers from entering the hollow microneedles. In another preferred embodiment, a microneedle device includes a plurality of bioerodible elements for temporarily plugging the hollow microneedles, thereby preventing skin or other tissue barriers from entering the hollow microneedles.

 

US20040077994A1

Microprotrusion arrays and methods for using same to deliver substances into tissue

4/22/2004

Improved microprotrusion abrasion devices having fluid retaining or directing patterns, and specific design parameters and method for delivery of substances into the skin. Various configurations of such devices are disclosed, including domed, channeled, patterned and stepped.

 

US6721586B2

Percutaneous biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

LifeScan, Inc.

4/13/2004

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one electrochemical cell having an inner electrode and an outer electrode in a concentrically-spaced relationship. In a preferred embodiment, the outer electrode has a cylindrical configuration having an open distal end and the inner electrode has an elongated configuration positioned coaxially within the outer electrode and a distal end configured to penetrate the skin. The spacing between the electrodes exerts a capillary force on biological fluid present at the open distal end of the outer electrode. A system is also provided which includes a control unit in electrical communication with the electrochemical cell for controlling the selection and measurement of the target constituent. Methods of sampling of biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices and/or systems.

 

WO2002045771A9

MICRONEEDLE ADAPTER

4/8/2004

The present invention relates to an adapter (10) for the transport of fluids with a microneedle device. The adapter can receive a syringe (20), for example, that is used to transport a fluid through the adapter for injection into a patient using the microneedle device. The adapter can include a seal (32) through which a syringe needle (24) is inserted to deliver fluid from the syringe into a fluid cavity (34) in the adapter.

 

US20040064087A1

Microabrader with controlled abrasion features

4/1/2004

An abrader device for delivering a substance into skin via an abrasion process includes a housing adapted to be pressed against the skin at a desired delivery site, an applicator head disposed in an upper opening of the housing and movable across a lower opening of the housing to abrade the delivery site in at least one furrow, and an abrader surface attached to the applicator head whereby the housing remains firm and stationary at the delivery site and structure of the housing and the applicator head controls parameters of the abrasion process. In particular, the amount of force or pressure applied to the abrader surface, the speed at which the abrader surface moves across the skin and the number of lateral passes of the abrader surface across the skin are controlled so that the abrader device provides a furrow with a length of substantially the same depth thereby providing reproducible results, even though different technicians are applying the abrader device against a patient's skin.

 

US20040058882A1

Microseeding device for gene delivery by microneedle injection

3/25/2004

An apparatus is provided to enable the direct gene transfer of genetic material into a target cell site (microseeding")

 as a means of obtaining long term expression of native or non-native polypeptides in a host. The apparatus includes a matrix of microneedles that oscillate at a predetermined frequency and receive the genetic material from a delivery system that is integrated with the apparatus."

US20040055898A1

Integrated lancing and measurement device and analyte measuring methods

3/25/2004

An integrated lancing and measurement device is provided comprising a sensor designed to determine the amount and/or concentration of analyte in a biological fluid having a volume of less than about 1 μL. A piercing member is adapted to pierce and retract from a site on the patient to cause the fluid to flow therefrom, and the sensor is positioned adjacent to the site on the patient so as to receive the fluid flowing from the site to generate an electrical signal indicative of the concentration of the analyte in the fluid. The sensor is comprised of a working electrode comprising an analyte-responsive enzyme and a redox mediator, and a counter electrode. An analyte monitor is operatively connected to the sensor and adapted to measure the signal generated by the sensor. Also provided are analyte measuring methods that optionally employ the integrated lancing and measurement device.

 

US20040055145A1

Substrate slot formation

3/25/2004

The described embodiments relate to methods and systems of forming slots in a substrate. One exemplary embodiment forms a feature into a substrate having a first substrate surface and a second substrate surface, and moves a sand drill nozzle along the substrate to remove substrate material sufficient to form, in combination with said forming, a slot through the substrate.

 

Self-Organization of a Porous Alumina Nanohole Array Using a Sulfuric/Oxalic Acid Mixture as Electrolyte.      Shingubara, S.; Morimoto, K.; Sakaue, H.; Takahagi, T.    Graduate School of Advanced Sciences and Matters,  Hiroshima University,  Higashi-Hiroshima,  Japan.    Electrochemical and Solid-State Letters  (2003),  7(3),  E15-E17.  Publisher: Electrochemical Society,  CODEN: ESLEF6  ISSN: 1099-0062.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 141:13495    AN 2004:105573    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  The possibility of fabricating a highly regular nanohole array using different acid mixts. for the anodic oxidn. of aluminum was investigated.  The regularity of a nanohole array formed using a 1:1 sulfuric/oxalic acid mixt. was quantified.  Excellent regularity was obtained at around an anode voltage of 32 to 36 V. Cell pitch of the nanohole array at 36 V was 73 nm, which falls between those obtained using sulfuric acid (65 nm at 28 V) and oxalic acid (95 nm at 40 V).  The present results strongly suggest that the pitch of the regular nanohole array can be varied by changing the ratio of the different acids.

 

Nanometric superlattices. Non-lithographic fabrication, materials, and prospects.      Chik, H.; Xu, J. M.    Division of Engineering,  Brown University,  Providence,  RI,  USA.    Materials Science & Engineering, R: Reports  (2004),  R43(4),  103-138.  Publisher: Elsevier Science B.V.,  CODEN: MIGIEA  ISSN: 0927-796X.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 141:286322    AN 2004:85171    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A review.  A non-lithog. technique that utilizes the self-organized, highly ordered anodized Al2O3 (AAO) porous membrane as a template is employed as a general fabrication means for the formation of vastly different 2D lateral nanometric superlattices.  The fact that material systems as different as metals, semiconductors, and C nanotubes (CNT) can be treated with the same ease attests to the generality of this nano-fabrication approach.  The original Al2O3 nanopore membranes det. the uniformity, packing d., and size of the nanostructures.  The flexibility of using a variety of materials, the accurate control over fabrication process, and the command over the alumina template attributes give us the freedom of engineering various phys. properties detd. by the shape, size, compn., and doping of the nanostructures.  The novel nanomaterial platform realized by this unique technique is powerfully enabling for a broad range of applications as well as for uncovering new phys. phenomena such as the collective behavior of arrays of nano-elements that may not be intrinsic to individual nano-elements.

 

EP1400330A1

Method for forming high surface area material films and membranes

Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.

3/24/2004

The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for producing high surface area material films and membranes on substrates. In one application, patterns of spikes or bristles (12) are produced on wafers (10) and transferred to films (20), such as conductive polymer or metal films, by using repetitive and inexpensive processes, such as electroplating and embossing. Such a technique provides low cost, high surface area materials and allows reuse of expensive patterned silicon. Membranes with high surface area (22) are extremely valuable in fuel cells since the power density is generally proportional to the surface area and the patterns may be used to cast inexpensive fuel cell electrodes.

 

US20040049220A1

Method and apparatus for a multi-use body fluid sampling device with sterility barrier release

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

3/11/2004

A device for use with a gripper is provided. A cartridge is provided that defines a plurality of cavities. A plurality of penetrating members are at least partially contained in the cavities of the cartridge. The penetrating members are slidably movable to extend outward from the cartridge to penetrate tissue. Each cavity has a longitudinal opening that provides access to an elongate portion of the penetrating member. A sterility barrier is coupled to the cartridge. The sterility barrier covers a plurality of the longitudinal openings. The sterility barrier is configured to be moved so that the elongate portion is accessed by the gripper without touching the barrier.

 

US20040048466A1

Method and apparatus for forming high surface area material films and membranes

3/11/2004

The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for producing high surface area material films and membranes on substrates. In one application, patterns of spikes or bristles are produced on wafers and transferred to films, such as conductive polymer or metal films, by using repetitive and inexpensive processes, such as electroplating and embossing. Such a technique provides low cost, high surface area materials and allows reuse of expensive patterned silicon. Membranes with high surface area are extremely valuable in fuel cells since the power density is generally proportional to the surface area and the patterns may be used to cast inexpensive fuel cell electrodes.

 

US20040044198A1

Efficient synthesis of pyropheophorbide a and its derivatives

3/4/2004

A process for the preparation of pyropheophorbide a and its derivatives, including 3-devinyl-3-(1'-hexyloxy)ethyl-pyropheophorbide-a, otherwise known as HPPH, is provided. The process involves treating chlorin e6, in the form of its trimethyl ester, with a base, followed by heating to give pyropheophorbide a, which is converted to HPPH by treatment with acid, followed by hexyl alcohol under basic conditions.

 

US6689100B2

Microdevice and method of delivering or withdrawing a substance through the skin of an animal

Becton, Dickinson and Company

2/10/2004

A device for withdrawing or delivering a substance through the skin of a patient includes a body and a skin penetrating device having a plurality of skin penetrating members, such microneedles. The body includes a bottom surface having a first inner surface area supporting the skin penetrating members and a second outer surface having an adhesive for attaching the device to the skin. In one embodiment, the firs inner surface is spaced outwardly from the second outer surface when the device is attached to the skin. The inner surface can have a textured visually wettable surface, such as an etched surface, to provide a visual indication of leakage from the interface between the skin penetrating members and the skin.

 

US6686299B2

Nanosyringe array and method

2/3/2004

A nanosyringe is constructed using micro fabrication and nano fabrication techniques on a silicon substrate. The nanosyringe includes a membrane of silicon carbide. The position and operation of individual nanosyringes, arranged in an array of nanosyringes, can be independently controlled. A nanosyringe array can inject or extract a fluid from one or more cells or other structures. Microfluidic structures coupled to the nanosyringe allow external pumping or extraction. A cell matrix or organelles of individual cells can be non-destructively sampled in real time.

 

WO2004009172A1

MICRONEEDLE DEVICES AND MICRONEEDLE DELIVERY APPARATUS

3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY

1/29/2004

Microneedle devices (10) with microneedles (30) having a truncated tapered shape are disclosed. The microneedles of microneedle devices may also have a controlled aspect ratio. Microneedle delivery apparatus are disclosed that include drivers designed to deliver microneedles at velocities that may enhance perforation of the stratum corneum while limiting the sensation of pain experienced at the delivery site.

 

US20040019331A1

Systems and methods for the transport of fluids through a biological barrier and production techniques for such systems

1/29/2004

A device for the transport of fluids through a biological barrier includes a number of microneedles projecting from the front face of a substrate. A conduit is associated with each of the microneedles to provide a fluid flow path for transport of fluid through a hole in the biological barrier formed by the corresponding microneedle. Each of the microneedles is configured to provide a penetrating tip, and each conduit terminates at an opening which is proximal with respect to the microneedle tip. Also described are microneedle-based devices with integrated MEMS pumping configurations for withdrawal and/or delivery of fluids, and remote healthcare systems based on such devices.

 

WO2004008248A2

A METHOD OF FORMING A MOLD AND MOLDING A MICRO-DEVICE

BECTON DICKINSON AND COMPANY | LASTOVICH, Alexander, G.

1/22/2004

A method of forming a device including a plurality of micron or sub-micron sized features is provided. A master having a surface contour defining a plurality of features is provided. The surface contour of the master is coated with at least one layer of material to form a shell. The master is removed from the shell to form a negative image of the surface contour in the shell. The negative image in the shell is filled with material, for example, polycarbonate, polyacrylic, or polystyrene, to form a device having features substantially the same as the master. The negative image may be filled using injection molding, compression molding, embossing or any other compatible technique.

 

US20040015190A1

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery of lidocaine and/or other drugs

MATTIOLI ENGINEERING LTD.

1/22/2004

A treatment method for delivery of lidocaine or other type of skin treatment drug to a patient's skin, includes applying electrical bursts of pulses onto the patient's skin by way of electrodes provided on a head of a probe that is placed against the patient's skin. The treatment method also includes applying mechanical vibrations of a same frequency and phase as the bursts of pulses onto the patient's skin by way of a vibrating element provided on the head of the probe. At the same time as the above two steps are being performed, the treatment method includes providing, between the electrodes and the patient's skin, at least two solution-absorbing pads electrically insulated from each other and each one of the two solution-absorbing pads being in electrical contact with one or more of the electrodes on the head of the probe. At least one of the two solution-absorbing pads is soaked with lidocaine or other type of skin treatment drug and the other of the two solution-absorbing pads is soaked with a conductive

 

EP1381422A1

A METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DELIVERY OF HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT SUBSTANCES

Becton, Dickinson and Company | Pettis, Ronald J. | Sutter, Diane, E. | Mikszta, John A.

1/21/2004

A method and device for administration of a high molecular weight protein into the intradermal space.

 

US20040010279A1

Device and method for variable speed lancet

1/15/2004

A method of penetrating tissue is provided. The method comprises using a lancet driver to advance a lancet into the tissue; advancing the lancet at a first desired velocity in a first layer of tissue; advancing the lancet at a second desired velocity in a second layer of tissue; and advancing the lancet at a third desired velocity in a third layer of tissue. In one embodiment, the method may including using a processor having logic for controlling velocity of the lancet in each layer of tissue.

 

US20040007796A1

Method of forming a mold and molding a micro-device

1/15/2004

A method of forming a device including a plurality of micron or sub-micron sized features is provided. A master having a surface contour defining a plurality of features is provided. The surface contour of the master is coated with at least one layer of material to form a shell. The master is removed from the shell to form a negative image of the surface contour in the shell. The negative image in the shell is filled with material, for example, polycarbonate, polyacrylic, or polystyrene, to form a device having features substantially the same as the master. The negative image may be filled using injection molding, compression molding, embossing or any other compatible technique.

 

WO2003057143A3

A METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REDUCING THERAPEUTIC DOSAGE

BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY | HARVEY, Noel, G.

1/8/2004

Methods and devices for administration of substances into the intradermal layer of skin with improved bioavailability.

 

US6674501B2

Cone protrusion in multi-domain vertically aligned liquid crystal display

1/6/2004

A pixel unit included in a multi-domain vertically aligned liquid crystal display is provided. The pixel unit includes a first insulating substrate having a first side and a second side, a second insulating substrate having a third side and a fourth side, a plurality of liquid crystal molecules filled between the first side of the first insulating substrate and the fourth side of the second insulating substrate, an electric field generation device for providing an electric field to change alignment of the liquid crystal molecules, and a cone protrusion formed on the first side of the first insulating substrate for generating an advance inclination of the liquid crystal molecules around the cone protrusion.

 

WO2003074102A3

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TRANSPORTING FLUID ACROSS A BIOLOGICAL BARRIER

NANO PASS TECHNOLOGIES LTD. | YESHURUN

12/31/2003

A device (10) and method for tranporting fluids across biological barriers enhances penetration of a biological barrier by the use of directional insertion, preferably with asymmetric microneedles (18) and/or microneedles (18) with sharp edges. Additionally, or alternatively, adhesion followed by alteration of contact geometry is employed to stretch the biological barrier across the microneedles (18), thereby also enhancing penetration. Also disclosed is a device (10) and method which combine shallow penetration by hollow microneedles (18) with jet injection via the microneedles (18) to achieve a total liquid penetration depth greater than the mechanical penetration depth of the microneedles (18).

 

US20030233112A1

Self optimizing lancing device with adaptation means to temporal variations in cutaneous properties

12/18/2003

Abstract: A lancing device, an embodiment of which controls the advancement and retraction of a lancet by monitoring the position of the lancet in conjunction with a lancet controller which incorporates a feedback loop for modulating the lancet driver to follow a predetermined tissue lancing profile.

 

US6663820B2

Method of manufacturing microneedle structures using soft lithography and photolithography

The Procter & Gamble Company

12/16/2003

A method for manufacturing microneedle structures is disclosed using soft lithography and photolithography, in which micromold structures made of a photoresist material or PDMS are created. The micromold manufacturing occurs quite quickly, using inexpensive materials and processes. Once the molds are available, using moldable materials such as polymers, microneedle arrays can be molded or embossed in relatively fast procedures. In some cases a sacrificial layer is provided between the forming micromold and its substrate layer, for ease of separation. The microneedles themselves can be solid projections, hollow microtubes

 or shallow microcups." Electrodes can be formed on the microneedle arrays

 including individual electrodes per hollow microtube."US6659982B2

Micro infusion drug delivery device

Sterling Medivations, Inc.

12/9/2003

An infusion pump includes a plurality of projections configured so that they enter the subcutaneous region of the patients skin and provides a painless means of creating a breach in the stratum corneum which is sealed against leakage by the skin surrounding each projection and provides a flow path for either a basal and bolus injection of medication. The pump includes a drug reservoir containing a drug. The pump includes a microactuator and includes a housing having a foundation or lid which opens and closes so that the medication container can be inserted and supported in a delivery mode position. A micro actuator is used to advance either a roller or a piston in communication with the medication container. Attached to the micro-actuator is a device that is mounted for movement along the access of the medication container. The device indexes along the medication container that is used to dispense the medication.

 

US20030224528A1

Systems and methods for optical actuation of microfluidics based on opto-electrowetting

12/4/2003

The invention is related to methods and apparatus that manipulate droplets in a microfluidic environment. Advantageously, embodiments of the invention manipulate droplets by controlling the electro-wetting characteristics of a surface with light, thereby inducing a gradient in the surface tension of a droplet. The gradient in the surface tension propels the droplet by capillary force. A variety of operations, such as transporting, joining, cutting, and creating can be performed. Advantageously, embodiments of the invention obviate the need to create a relatively large and complex control electrode array. A plurality of photoconductive cells or a layer of a photoconductive material selectively couples an electrode carrying an electrical bias to otherwise floating conductive cells in response to a beam of light. The electrical bias applied to the conductive cell generates a localized electric field, which can change the contact angle of the droplet, thereby permitting the droplet to be propelled.

 

WO2003026732A3

SWITCHABLE MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO SAME

BIOVALVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

11/27/2003

The microneedle devices disclosed herein in some embodiments include a substrate; one or more microneedles; and, optionally, a reservoir for delivery of drugs or collection of analyte, as well as pump(s), sensor(s), and/or microprocessor(s) to control the interaction of the foregoing. A switch or switching matrix may be connected to the microneedles to provide a switching mechanism for opening and closing a circuit coupled to the microneedle

 

US20030217934A1

Electrochemical cell connector

11/27/2003

The present invention relates to electrochemical cells including a connector which mates with a connection device to provide electrical connection to meter circuitry.

 

EP1362788A2

Devices, systems and methods for the containing and use of liquid solutions

Lifescan, Inc.

11/19/2003

The present invention includes devices, systems and methods for containing and using liquid solutions. The devices include liquid containment structures and packages of such liquid containment structures for containing single doses of a liquid solution for subsequent use. The systems include at least one subject containment structure or package of containment structures and the liquid solution for which they are intended to contain. The liquid solutions may comprise any type of agent, reagent or control solution. The subject methods involve the use of the liquid containment structures and packages thereof as well as methods of providing a control solution for use to evaluate a system's performance.

 

US20030212424A1

Method and apparatus for lancet actuation

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

11/13/2003

A lancet driver is provided wherein the driver exerts a driving force on a lancet during a lancing cycle and is used on a tissue site. The driver comprises of a drive force generator for advancing the lancet and a processor coupled to the drive force generator capable of changing the direction and magnitude of force exerted on the lancet during the lancing cycle. The driver further includes a human interface on the housing providing at least one output for communicating with the patient.

 

US20030211616A1

Devices, systems and methods for the containment and use of liquid solutions

11/13/2003

The present invention includes devices, systems and methods for containing and using liquid solutions. The devices include liquid containment structures and packages of such liquid containment structures for containing single doses of a liquid solution for subsequent use. The systems include at least one subject containment structure or package of containment structures and the liquid solution for which they are intended to contain. The liquid solutions may comprise any type of agent, reagent or control solution. The subject methods involve the use of the liquid containment structures and packages thereof as well as methods of providing a control solution for use to evaluate a system's performance.

 

Self-assembled stripes on the anodic aluminum oxide by atomic force microscope observation.      Liu, H. W.; Guo, H. M.; Wang, Y. L.; Wang, Y. T.; Shen, C. M.; Wei, L.    Institute of Physics, Nanoscale Physics and Devices Laboratory,  Chinese Academy of Sciences,  Beijing,  Peop. Rep. China.    Applied Surface Science  (2003),  219(3-4),  282-289.  Publisher: Elsevier Science B.V.,  CODEN: ASUSEE  ISSN: 0169-4332.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 140:364602    AN 2003:847010    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Non-polished aluminum sheets were anodized.  The nanostructures were investigated in detail using an at. force microscope (AFM).  The coexistence of self-assembled stripes and porous arrays on the Al surface was obsd.  The formation mechanism of the stripes is discussed based on the Brusselator model.  It was suggested that the self-assembled patterns on the Al surface strongly depend on the competition of the formation and the dissoln. rate of alumina film during the reaction process.  It is also found that this type of ordered structure can only form in certain conditions.

 

US20030209314A1

Method of forming nanofluidic channels

11/13/2003

A method of forming nanofluidic enclosed channels includes providing a first substrate having a layer of a first material disposed thereon. A plurality of nanoscale slots is formed along a second substrate using nanolithography, etching, or other disclosed techniques. The first substrate is then bonded to the second substrate such that the layer of the first material on the first substrate is adjacent the plurality of slots on the second substrate to define a plurality of enclosed nanofluidic channels therethrough.

 

EP1360934A1

Devices and methods for accessing and analyzing physiological fluid

LifeScan, Inc.

11/12/2003

Systems, devices and methods for determining the concentration of physiological fluid analytes are provided. The subject systems have a plurality of biosensor devices present on a disposable cartridge. Each biosensor device includes a biosensor and a skin penetration means. In practicing the subject methods, a movement means of the device is used to move each biosensor device in a first direction that provides for penetration of the skin-piercing means into a skin layer followed by movement of the biosensor in a second direction that provides for removal of the skin-piercing means from the skin layer, where this movement profile provides for physiological fluid access and analyte concentration determination by the analyte sensor means. The subject systems, devices and methods for using the same find use in determining the concentration of a variety of different physiological fluid analytes, and are particularly suited for use in detection of physiological fluid glucose concentration.

 

US20030208248A1

Percutaneous electrode array

11/6/2003

A percutaneous electrode array is disclosed for applying therapeutic electrical energy to a treatment site in the body of a patient. The array comprises a plurality of electrode microstructures which are inserted into the epidermis, thereby overcoming the inherent electrical impedance of the outer skin layers and obviating the need to prepare the skin surface prior to an electro-therapy treatment. The array preferably includes an adhesion layer to help keep the electrode microstructures inserted into the epidermis during the duration of the therapeutic treatment, and temperature and condition monitoring devices to ensure proper treatment and enhance patient safety.

 

US20030208167A1

Microneedle drug delivery device

11/6/2003

Simple microneedle devices for delivery of drugs across or into biological tissue are provided, which permit drug delivery at clinically relevant rates across or into skin or other tissue barriers, with minimal or no damage, pain, or irritation to the tissue. The devices include a substrate to which a plurality of hollow microneedles are attached or integrated, and at least one reservoir, containing the drug, selectably in communication with the microneedles, wherein the volume or amount of drug to be delivered can be selectively altered. The reservoir can be formed of a deformable, preferably elastic, material. The device typically includes a means, such as a plunger, for compressing the reservoir to drive the drug from the reservoir through the microneedles. In one embodiment, the reservoir is a syringe or pump connected to the substrate.

 

US20030203352A1

Analyte measurement device and method of use

10/30/2003

Devices, systems, methods and kits are provided for use in determining the concentration of chemical and biochemical components in aqueous fluids. The subject devices include test strips which define a longitudinal axis and include a distal edge configured for insertion into a measurement instrument and having an alignment notch formed in the distal edge for engagement with an alignment member of the measurement instrument. The alignment notch has opposing edges wherein at least a portion of the opposing edges is in substantially parallel relation to the longitudinal axis. In using the subject devices, the devices are inserted into a measurement instrument having an alignment pin. When operatively engaged with the alignment pin, the notch serves to maintain the device in a substantially motionless position. The invention is useful in a variety of applications, particularly in the determination of blood glucose concentrations.

 

US20030202147A1

CONE PROTRUSION IN MULTI-DOMAIN VERTICALLY ALIGNED LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY

Hamstar Display Corp.

10/30/2003

A pixel unit included in a multi-domain vertically aligned liquid crystal display is provided. The pixel unit includes a first insulating substrate having a first side and a second side, a second insulating substrate having a third side and a fourth side, a plurality of liquid crystal molecules filled between the first side of the first insulating substrate and the fourth side of the second insulating substrate, an electric field generation device for providing an electric field to change alignment of the liquid crystal molecules, and a cone protrusion formed on the first side of the first insulating substrate for generating an advance inclination of the liquid crystal molecules around the cone protrusion.

 

EP1355697A1

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR FLUID DELIVERY USING ELECTROACTIVE NEEDLES AND IMPLANTABLE ELECTROCHEMICAL DELIVERY DEVICES

Microlin, LLC

10/29/2003

The invention includes apparatus and methods for electrotransport of a drug or other beneficial agent through a skin or mucosal membrane surface. In one embodiment, at least one of the cathode or anode electrode (38, 50) of an electrochemical cell is configured as an electroactive needle (40) for insertion through the stratum corneum of a patient's skin. A reservoir (52) containing a beneficial agent may be provided in fluid communication with one or more electroactive needles (40), where the electroactive needle(s) (40) a hollow bore interior for transport of the beneficial agent directly into a subject's tissues. In a related embodiment, an electroactive needle (40) is configured for intravenous and/or intramuscular use. An electrotransport system (32) comprising an electrochemically active porous substrate is also disclosed. In a still further embodiment, an electrotransport system having one or more implantable active porous electrodes (338) is disclosed.

 

US20030199910A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of cartridges, each with a distal port and a proximal port. A plurality of penetrating members are provided, each being coupled to a cartridge. Each penetrating member has a sharpened distal tip and a shaft portion slidably disposed within the cartridge. A seal is formed by a fracturable material between the penetrating member and the cartridge. The seal is positioned at one or both of a distal port or a proximal port of the cartridge. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, skin penetrating performance or a skin penetrating setting.

 

US20030199906A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a single drive force generator. A plurality of penetrating members are operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves each of the members along a path out of a housing with a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. A flexible support member couples the penetrating members to define a linear array. The support member is movable and configured to move each of the penetrating members to a launch position associated with the force generator. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, penetrating member performance or a penetrating member setting.

 

US20030199905A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a voice coil based penetrating member driver. A plurality of penetrating members are included. A transport mechanism is configured to engage the cartridges. Each of the cartridges is operatively engaged with the penetrating member driver when moved into position by the transport mechanism.

 

US20030199904A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes an electrically powered drive force generator. A penetrating member is operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves the member along a path out of a housing having a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. A cartridge houses the penetrating member. The cartridge has first and second seals coupled to the penetrating member to maintain a sterile environment around a portion of the penetration member prior to penetrating member actuation. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, penetrating member performance or a penetrating member setting.

 

US20030199903A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

A skin penetrating system has a housing member and a plurality of penetrating members positioned in the housing member. A tissue stabilizing device is coupled to the housing member. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, skin penetrating performance or a skin penetrating setting.

 

US20030199901A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of cartridges each with a distal port and a proximal port. A plurality of penetrating members are provided, each coupled to a cartridge and having a sharpened distal tip and a shaft portion slidably disposed within the cartridge. A seal is formed by a fracturable material between the penetrating member and the cartridge. The seal is positioned at one or both of a distal port or a proximal port of the cartridge.

 

US20030199900A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of penetrating members each having a tip. A penetrating member driver is coupled to the plurality of penetrating members. Each tip of a penetrating member is uncovered during launch of the penetrating member by the penetrating member driver. A support is provided with a plurality of openings. Each opening receives a penetrating member.

 

US20030199899A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes an electrically powered drive force generator. A penetrating member is operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves the member along a path out of a housing having a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. An analyte detecting member is positioned to receive fluid from a wound created by the penetrating member. The detection member is configured to determine a concentration of an analyte in the fluid using a sample of less than 1 mL of the fluid.

 

US20030199898A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a drive force generator and a penetrating member operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves the member along a path out of a housing with a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. The drive force generator is configured to be controlled to follow a predetermined velocity trajectory into the tissue and out of the tissue. A tissue stabilizing member is associated with the device and at least partially surrounds an impact location of the penetrating member on the tissue site. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, penetrating member performance or a penetrating member setting.

 

US20030199895A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a voice coil based penetrating member driver. A plurality of penetrating members are included. A transport mechanism is configured to engage the cartridges. Each of the cartridges is operatively engaged with the penetrating member driver when moved into position by the transport mechanism. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, penetrating member performance or a penetrating member setting.

 

US20030199893A1

Method and apparatus for a multi-use body fluid sampling device with analyte sensing

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

A device for use with a penetrating member driver to penetrate tissue is provided. A plurality of penetrating members are coupled to a single cartridge and are operatively couplable to the penetrating member driver. The penetrating members are movable to extend radially outward from the cartridge to penetrate tissue. A plurality of analyte sensors are coupled to the single cartridge and are positioned on the cartridge to receive body fluid from a wound in the tissue created by the penetrating member.

 

US20030199790A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

A skin penetrating system includes a housing member and a penetrating member positioned in the housing member. An analyte detecting member is coupled to a sample chamber. The analyte detecting member is configured to determine a concentration of an analyte in a body fluid using a sample of less than 1 μL of a body fluid disposed in the sample chamber. A tip of the penetrating member is configured to extend through an opening of the sample chamber.

 

US20030199789A1

Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue

Pelikan Technologies, Inc.

10/23/2003

A skin penetrating system includes a housing member. A plurality of penetrating members are positioned in the housing member. A plurality of analyte detecting members are each associated with a penetrating member. Each analyte detecting member includes a sample chamber and an opening for transport of a body fluid into the sample chamber. The analyte detecting member is configured to determine a concentration of an analyte in a body fluid using a sample of less than 1 μL of a body fluid disposed in the sample chamber. A user interface is configured to relay at least one of, skin penetrating performance or a skin penetrating setting.

 

US20030199165A1

System and method for the manufacture of surgical blades

Becton, Dickinson and Company

10/23/2003

A method for manufacturing surgical blades from either a crystalline or poly-crystalline material, preferably in the form of a wafer, is disclosed. The method includes preparing the crystalline or poly-crystalline wafers by mounting them and machining trenches into the wafers. The methods for machining the trenches, which form the bevel blade surfaces, include a diamond blade saw, laser system, ultrasonic machine, and a hot forge press. The wafers are then placed in an etchant solution which isotropically etches the wafers in a uniform manner, such that layers of crystalline or poly-crystalline material are removed uniformly, producing single or double bevel blades. Nearly any angle can be machined into the wafer which remains after etching. The resulting radii of the blade edges is 5-500 nm, which is the same caliber as a diamond edged blade, but manufactured at a fraction of the cost.

 

US20030195590A1

Electro therapy method and apparatus

Biowave Corporation

10/16/2003

An electrotherapy apparatus and method for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient, having means for providing two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus and method requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

 

US6629949B1

Micro infusion drug delivery device

Sterling Medivations, Inc.

10/7/2003

An infusion pump for use with standard pre-filled medication container and a drug delivery device for percutaneously administering a drug. The delivery device having a plurality of projections and a drug reservoir. The projections extend from the reservoir and are adapted for penetrating the stratum comeun for percutaneously administering a drug from the reservoir to produce a local or systemic physiological or pharmacological effect. The plurality of projections is formed by micro machining. The pump is made by using a micro-actuator and includes a housing having a lid which opens and closes so that the medication container can be inserted and supported in a delivery mode position.

 

US20030187478A1

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and transdermal drug delivery

MATTIOLI ENGINEERING LTD.

10/2/2003

A treatment system and method for enhancing absorption of substances provided on a surface of a patient's skin, includes applying a substance to the surface of the patient's skin by way of a probe that provides at least one of: i) electrical pulses to the skin surface, and ii) vibrational pulses to the skin surface, in order to cause absorption of the substance within the patient's skin. At the same that the substance is applied to the skin, a gauze pad is provided between the probe and the patient's skin. The gauze pad allows for the probe to be moved over the surface of the patient's skin with less friction than if no gauze pad is used, in order to obtain easier movement of the probe with respect to the skin, and to obtain a more even application of the substance to the skin.

 

US20030187423A1

Valved intradermal delivery device and method of intradermally delivering a substance to a patient

10/2/2003

An intradermal delivery device for delivery a substance into the skin of a patient has a fluid chamber for containing the substance, at least one micro skin penetrating member, and a valve controlling the flow of the substance from the fluid chamber to the micro skin penetrating member. An adhesive releasably attaches the device to the skin of the patient, the fluid chamber can be sized to hold a unit dose of the substance, and, in some embodiments, the fluid chamber can be releasably coupled to a housing of the device.

 

US20030187395A1

Intradermal delivery device

10/2/2003

A delivery device for delivering a substance intradermally into the skin of a patient including a housing for contacting the surface of the skin and a disposable cartridge to be received in the housing. The cartridge includes an internal reservoir containing a substance to be delivered to the patient, a plurality of micro skin penetrating members and a fluid channel extending between the micro skin penetrating members and the reservoir. The housing includes a bottom wall with a central opening and a cover member. The cartridge is positioned in the housing with the micro skin penetrating members extending through the central opening of the bottom wall and positioned on the surface of the skin of a patient. The cover is closed onto the cartridge to dispense the substance from the cartridge through the micro skin penetrating members and into or through the skin of the patient.

 

US20030187394A1

Method and device for intradermally delivering a substance

10/2/2003

A device for delivering a substance into the skin of a patient includes a body and a skin penetrating device having at least one skin penetrating member, such as a microneedle. The body includes an internal cavity and a device for indicating the delivery of a sufficient amount of the substance to the patient and for producing a dispensing pressure to dispense and deliver the substance from the cavity. The indicating device is visible from the exterior of the delivery device. In some embodiments, the indicating device is an elastic expandable diaphragm which, when the cavity is filled with a substance, creates the dispensing pressure.

 

US20030181960A1

Electro therapy method and apparatus

Biowave Corporation

9/25/2003

An electro-therapy apparatus and method for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient, having means for providing two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus and method requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

 

US20030180825A1

Analyte measurement device and method of use

9/25/2003

Devices, systems, methods and kits are provided for use in determining the concentration of chemical and biochemical components in aqueous fluids. The subject devices include test strips which define a longitudinal axis and include a distal edge configured for insertion into a measurement instrument and having an alignment notch formed in the distal edge for engagement with an alignment member of the measurement instrument. The alignment notch has opposing edges wherein at least a portion of the opposing edges is in substantially parallel relation to the longitudinal axis. In using the subject devices, the devices are inserted into a measurement instrument having an alignment pin. When operatively engaged with the alignment pin, the notch serves to maintain the device in a substantially motionless position. The invention is useful in a variety of applications, particularly in the determination of blood glucose concentrations.

 

US6623457B1

Method and apparatus for the transdermal administration of a substance

Becton, Dickinson and Company

9/23/2003

A transdermal delivery device includes a plurality of microneedles for injecting a substance such as a pharmaceutical agent into or below the stratum corneum of the skin. The device has housing formed from a top and bottom wall to define a chamber for containing a pharmaceutical agent. An inlet port is provided in the top wall of the housing for supplying the pharmaceutical agent to the chamber and directing the agent to the microneedles. The housing can have a Luer lock type fitting for coupling with a syringe having a Luer lock collar to inject the pharmaceutical agent into the housing. The housing can be divided into a plurality of chambers by an internal wall for supplying different agents simultaneously or sequentially to a patient. The microneedles have a length of about 5-250 microns and generally about 50-100 microns.

 

US6620332B2

Method for making a mesh-and-plate surgical implant

Tecomet, Inc.

9/16/2003

Method for making a mesh-and-plate surgical implant includes the steps of applying maskant to first and second faces of a metal sheet, selectively ablating the maskant on both faces, affixing a first tape to the first face to cover same and maskant thereon, but leaving an exposed portion for a screw hole, affixing a second tape to the second face to cover same and maskant thereon, etching the first face screw hole portion to form a crater, removing the first tape, etching the crater and other exposed portions of the first face, removing the second tape, etching opposite the crater and other exposed portions of the second face to provide openings in communication with the crater, and other second face openings extending to the first face, and removing remaining maskant to provide the implant configured to include a pliable mesh portion and a rigid plate portion, and having a screw hole therein.

 

WO2003074102A2

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TRANSPORTING FLUID ACROSS A BIOLOGICAL BARRIER

NANO PASS TECHNOLOGIES LTD. | YESHURUN | HEFETZ, Meir | FRUCHTMAN, Gil | LEVINE, Yotam

9/12/2003

A device (10) and method for tranporting fluids across biological barriers enhances penetration of a biological barrier by the use of directional insertion, preferably with asymmetric microneedles and/or microneedles with sharp edges. Additionally, or alternatively, adhesion followed by alteration of constant geometry is employed to stretch the biological barrier across the microneedles, thereby also anhancing penetration. Also disclosed is a device and method which combine shallow penetration of hollow microneedles with jet injection via the microneedles to achieve a total liquid penetration depth greater than the mechanical penetration depth of the microneedles.

 

US20030171793A1

Electro therapy method and apparatus

Biowave Corporation

9/11/2003

An electro-therapy apparatus and method for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient, having means for providing two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus and method requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

 

US6611308B2

Cone protrusion in multi-domain vertically aligned liquid crystal display

Hannstar Display Corp.

8/26/2003

A pixel unit included in a multi-domain vertically aligned liquid crystal display is provided. The pixel unit includes a first insulating substrate having a first side and a second side, a second insulating substrate having a third side and a fourth side, a plurality of liquid crystal molecules filled between the first side of the first insulating substrate and the fourth side of the second insulating substrate, an electric field generation device for providing an electric field to change alignment of the liquid crystal molecules, and a cone protrusion formed on the first side of the first insulating substrate for generating an advance inclination of the liquid crystal molecules around the cone protrusion.

 

US6607673B2

Method for manufacturing a diamond cylinder array having dents therein

The University of Tokyo

8/19/2003

A cylinder array of diamond having a dent in its cylinder top face is manufactured by subjecting a cylinder array of diamond to a plasma etching.

 

US6607513B1

Device for withdrawing or administering a substance and method of manufacturing a device

Becton, Dickinson and Company

8/19/2003

A device includes a plurality of skin penetrating devices for delivering or withdrawing a substance through the skin of a patient. The device has a support formed with a top and bottom end and a plurality of channels extending axially through the support. A plurality of the skin penetrating members is positioned in the channels with a tip extending from the bottom end of the support. A coupling member is attached to the support for coupling with a fluid supply and directing the fluid to the skin penetrating members. The skin penetrating members have a length of about 100 microns to about 2000 microns and are about 30 to 50 gauge.

 

US20030153900A1

Autonomous, ambulatory analyte monitor or drug delivery device

Sarnoff Corporation

8/14/2003

The invention relates to analyte monitoring/drug (pharmaceutical agent) delivery device. The invention is suited for monitoring various blood constituents such as glucose. The device has a housing that at least partially encloses a plurality of microneedles disposed on a carrier and an electronics portion. Each microneedle is in fluid communication with a corresponding microchannel. Each microneedle is individually addressable. That is, each microneedle can be extended and retracted individually via an actuator. The electronics portion includes a processor and associated circuitry (e.g., memory, supporting electronics and the like), a motor or the like, a sensor, a power supply (e.g., battery) and optionally an interface. In general, the processor controls the operation of the device and is data communication with the actuator, motor, sensor and interface. The invention provides for autonomous operation, that is, without intervention of the user. The invention can optionally provide for calibration without in

 

US6603987B2

Hollow microneedle patch

Bayer Corporation

8/5/2003

A test strip is provided for use in the determination of the concentration of an a chemical in blood. The test strip comprises a plurality of microneedles and a test area. Each microneedle is adapted to puncture skin and to draw blood. The test area is in fluid communication with the microneedles. The test area contains a reagent adapted to produce a reaction indicative of the concentration of the chemical in blood.

 

US20030141279A1

Methods and systems for forming slots in a substrate

7/31/2003

The described embodiments relate to methods and systems for forming slots in a substrate. In one exemplary embodiment, a slot is formed in a substrate that has first and second opposing surfaces. A first trench is dry etched through the first surface of the substrate. A second trench is created through the second surface of the substrate effective to form, in combination with the first trench, a slot. At least a portion of the slot passes entirely through the substrate, and the maximum width of the slot is less than or equal to about 50 of the thickness of the substrate.

 

Nonlinear dynamics in electrochemical systems.      Krischer, Katharina.    Fritz-Haber-Institut der MPG,  Berlin,  Germany.    Advances in Electrochemical Science and Engineering  (2003),  8  89-208.  Publisher: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA,  CODEN: AESEEY  ISSN: 0938-5193.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 139:282372    AN 2003:573396    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A review with refs. concerning nonlinear dynamics in electrochem. systems is presented.  Concepts developed in nonlinear dynamics facilitated the classification of nonlinear phenomena in electrochem. systems and revealed the origins of the diversity of temporal and spatial patterns in electrochem. systems.  The diversity results on the one hand from the fact that the electrode potential might act as a pos. or as a neg. feedback variable.  On the other hand, it is a consequence of the different kinds of spatial coupling present in an electrochem. cell and of the unique property that the extent of the spatial couplings is influenced by parameters that can be easily manipulated in an expt.  The basic spatial coupling present in any electrochem. system is migration coupling, which is mediated through the elec. field in the electrolyte.  It is intrinsically nonlocal, i.e., a change of state at a particular location induces noticeably and instantly changed migration currents at the electrode in an expanded, surrounding area.  In contrast, diffusive coupling is a nearest-neighbor coupling, and in this sense it is local.  In migration coupling, the cond. of the electrolyte takes the role of the diffusion coeff. in diffusive coupling.  Obviously, in most cases the diffusion coeff. can only be affected from the outside through a temp. variation (that affects also all other rate consts.), whereas the cond. can be changed easily in an expt.  Furthermore, the migration coupling depends on the potential distribution in the electrolyte, and thus on the geometry of the cell.  The most important parameter in this respect is the distance between the WE and the CE, or, more precisely the aspect ratio of the distance between the WE and the CE and the extension of the WE in one pattern forming direction.  For an aspect ratio larger than 1, the max. range is attained.  For increasingly smaller aspect ratios the coupling range decreases continuously.

 In the extreme case of an infinitely small distance, nonlocal coupling turns into diffusive coupling.  Thus, electrochem. systems possess the peculiarity that the range of the spatial coupling can be varied as can the characteristic time of the spatial coupling.  Further effects that are superimposed on the mentioned general characteristics of migration coupling arise for certain geometries.  Two basic types of geometries have to be distinguished.  In the fist type (type I), the WE extends from one end of the cell to the other one; in the other (type II), it is embedded into an insulator.  In type II geometries, a homogeneous potential distribution at the electrode can never coexist with a homogeneous c.d., which manifests itself in the evolution equation for the electrode potential in parameters that vary in space.  This excludes the existence of homogeneous solns. a priori.  Also the migration coupling is qual. different in this case: every location of the electrode is coupled to locations close to the edge of the electrode as strongly as to immediately neighboring ones.  This leads to a pronounced edge effect in the dynamics.  Another aspect concerns the location of the RE.  If it is placed asym. with respect to the WE, then the asymmetry might show up again in the interfacial patterns.  Two kinds of global coupling can occur aside from the migration coupling, depending on the exptl. conditions.  If the distance between the working electrode and the ref. electrode is small, then the feedback through the potentiostat results in a neg. global coupling.  This neg. global coupling induces an antiphase behavior and highly favors pattern formation.  In contrast, a pos. global coupling exists for galvanostatic conditions, which acts in a synchronizing manner.  All three types of coupling, migration coupling as well as neg. and pos. global coupling, depend solely on the elec. properties of the system.  Therefore, they are independent of the electrode reaction.

 Thus, everything we summarized up to now applies to all electrochem. systems considered in this article.  The type of pattern that develops in a given system depends on the interaction of the spatial coupling and the dynamics of the homogeneous system.  Here, the electrode reactions come into play.  With a few exceptions, under conditions for which instabilities are obsd. electrode reactions can be divided into just two classes despite large chem. variations: systems with an N-shaped I/DL characteristic, and systems with an S-shaped I/DL characteristic.  Both classes are activator-inhibitor systems as are chem. reactions that oscillate in homogeneous phase.  The electrode potential is the activator for N-NDR systems, and the inhibitor for S-NDR systems.  Thus, the three types of spatial couplings discussed above act either on the activator variable or on the inhibitor variable.  The variety of combinations results in a broad spectrum of spatial instabilities and patterns.  These are summarized in Table 1: If the electrode potential represents the activator, then the migration coupling leads to potential fronts, which often propagate in an accelerated manner because the coupling is nonlocal.  Furthermore, it can destabilize homogeneous oscillations, leading to modulated waves that were found in some instances to be irregular in time and space and resemble turbulent states.  An addnl. pos. global coupling enhances the accelerated expansion, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, it can result in the formation of clusters in the oscillatory range.  If a neg. coupling superposes the migration coupling, the homogeneous stationary state might become unstable with respect to spatial perturbations, resulting in standing domains, standing waves with wave no. 1 or pulses, depending on the parameters.  In addn., also domain formation is obsd. in the oscillatory region, which can manifest itself in different manners.

 

Role of interfacial energy during pattern formation of electropolishing.      Guo, Weidong; Johnson, Duane.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  University of Alabama,  Tuscaloosa,  AL,  USA.    Physical Review B: Condensed Matter and Materials Physics  (2003),  67(7),  075411/1-075411/7.  Publisher: American Physical Society,  CODEN: PRBMDO  ISSN: 0163-1829.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 139:282430    AN 2003:192603    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  This paper investigates the effect of interfacial energy on nanoscale pattern formation during electropolishing of aluminum.  We correct a small error in the existing theory of Yuzhakov et al. that unfortunately no longer predicts stable hexagonal patterns.  Upon including the interfacial energy in the derivation, the stable hexagons are recovered.  We have derived the evolution equation of the aluminum interface during electropolishing and performed a linear and weakly nonlinear stability anal.  The results give values that lead to stable striped or hexagonal patterns.  Results of a full nonlinear simulation of the evolution equation agree qual. with the weakly nonlinear results.  Exptl. results also verify our model, which predicts the coexistence of striped and hexagonal patterns in one sample.

 

US6599322B1

Method for producing undercut micro recesses in a surface, a surgical implant made thereby, and method for fixing an implant to bone

Tecomet, Inc.

7/29/2003

A surgical implant having a datum surface for engaging tissue. Embodiments of the surgical implant include a recess in an original datum surface having a sharp undercut ovoid configuration and a multiplicity of recesses that are interconnected.

 

US20030139727A1

Transdermal transport device with suction

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

7/24/2003

A transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and one or more needles. Each needle has a bore through which the formulation is transported between the reservoir and a biological body, and has an end portion that is substantially aligned in a plane parallel to a surface of the biological body when the device is placed on the surface. The device also includes a vacuum generator which creates a suction to draw a portion of the surface beyond the plane of the end portions to enable the end portions to penetrate the portion of the surface as the needles are translated along an axis that is substantially parallel to the plane.

 

US6595947B1

Topical delivery of vaccines

Becton, Dickinson and Company

7/22/2003

A method for delivering a substance to the epidermal tissue of skin. The method involves simultaneously disrupting only the stratum corneum of the skin and delivering the substance to the epidermal tissue of the skin.

 

WO2003057143A2

A METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REDUCING THERAPEUTIC DOSAGE

BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY | HARVEY, Noel, G. | PETTIS, Ronald, J. | DOWN, James, A. | ALCHAS, Paul, G.

7/17/2003

Methods and devices for administration of substances into the intradermal layer of skin with improved bioavailability.

 

US20030135333A1

Analyte Monitor

Rosedale Medical, Inc.

7/17/2003

Provided is an analyte monitoring device having a housing, the device comprising: a plurality of needles, each having a tip, a retracted position, a position wherein the tip is extended from the housing a distance adapted to pierce skin; an electrically or spring powered needle pushing apparatus movable to separately engage each of the needles to move each from the retracted position to the extended position; an energy source located within the housing; a plurality of analysis sites comprising an analysis preparation, each adapted to receive liquid from the needles to wet the analysis preparation; one or more light sources adapted to direct light at the analysis sites; one or more light detectors adapted to receive light from the analysis sites; and a processor.

 

US20030135161A1

Microneedle devices and methods of manufacture

 

7/17/2003

Microneedle devices and methods of manufacturing the microneedle devices. The microneedle devices include microneedles protruding from a substrate, with the microneedles piercing a cover placed over the substrate surface from which the microneedles protrude. The cover and the microneedle substrate together define a capillary volume in fluid communication with the base of each microneedle. One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue. Manufacturing methods may include simultaneous application of pressure and ultrasonic energy when piercing the cover with the microneedles.

 

WO2003055384A1

A MINIMALLY-INVASIVE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ANALYTE LEVELS

BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY

7/10/2003

A minimally-invasive analyte detecting device (100) and method for using the same. The system and method employ a device having an active electrode (104) optionally coated with a substance (126), and a counter-electrode (106) that is configured at least partially surround the active electrode (104). The configuration of the auxiliary electrode (106) and active electrode (104) improves the current flow through the device (100) and increases the sensitivity of the device. When the device is placed against the patient's skin, the active electrode (104) is adapted to enter through the stratum corneum of a patient to a depth less than a depth in the dermis at which nerve endings reside. An electric potential is applied to the active electrode (104) and the analyte level is determined based on the amount of current or charge flowing through the device (100).

 

US6591133B1

Apparatus and methods for fluid delivery using electroactive needles and implantable electrochemical delivery devices

Microlin LLC

7/8/2003

The invention includes apparatus and methods for electrotransport of a drug or other beneficial agent through a skin or mucosal membrane surface. In one embodiment, at least one of the cathode or anode electrode of an electrochemical cell is configured, at least in part, as an electroactive needle for insertion all or part way through the stratum corneum of a patient's skin. A reservoir containing a beneficial agent may be provided in fluid communication with one or more electroactive needles, in which case the electroactive needle(s) may be configured with a hollow bore interior for transport of the beneficial agent directly into a subject's tissues. In a related embodiment, an electroactive needle is configured for intravenous and/or intramuscular use. The invention also includes an electrotransport system comprising an electrochemically active porous substrate. In a further embodiment, the invention comprises an electrotransport system having one or more implantable active porous electrodes.

 

US6591124B2

Portable interstitial fluid monitoring system

The Procter & Gamble Company

7/8/2003

A strip-like microneedle device is provided that includes an array of hollow microneedles, a diaphragm pump to extract interstitial fluid from skin, and a sensor that detects the concentration of the fluid. The microneedle device can be interfaced to an external sensor to produce a reading, or can be self-contained. One version uses an attachable/detachable microneedle array as a single-use, disposable unit. The device is portable, and is used by placing one finger on the microneedle array, and actuating the diaphragm pump with another finger, thereby obtaining the fluid sample. Solid coated or transparent microneedles could instead be used as an in-situ sensor, with either electrodes or an optical sensor.

 

US20030120179A1

Method of distributing skin care products

6/26/2003

The present invention relates to a method of distributing a skin care product to a subject, the method including the steps of: (a) obtaining a sample of interstitial fluid from the skin of the subject; (b) measuring the amount of a skin analyte in the sample; and (c) distributing a skin care product to the subject to alter the amount of the skin analyte in the skin of the subject.

 

US20030113927A1

Analyte measurement device and method of use

6/19/2003

Devices, systems, methods and kits are provided for use in determining the concentration of chemical and biochemical components in aqueous fluids. The subject devices include test strips which define a longitudinal axis and include a distal edge configured for insertion into a measurement instrument and having an alignment notch formed in the distal edge for engagement with an alignment member of the measurement instrument. The alignment notch has opposing edges wherein at least a portion of the opposing edges is in substantially parallel relation to the longitudinal axis. In using the subject devices, the devices are inserted into a measurement instrument having an alignment pin. When operatively engaged with the alignment pin, the notch serves to maintain the device in a substantially motionless position. The invention is useful in a variety of applications, particularly in the determination of blood glucose concentrations.

 

WO2003047689A1

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR FLUID DELIVERY USING ELECTROACTIVE NEEDLES AND IMPLANTABLE ELECTROCHEMICAL DELIVERY DEVICES

MICROLIN LLC

6/12/2003

The invention includes apparatus and methods for electrotransport of a drug or other beneficial agent through a skin or mucosal membrane surface. In one embodiment, at least one of the cathode or anode electrode (38, 50) of an electrochemical cell is configured as an electroactive needle (40) for insertion through the stratum corneum of a patient's skin. A reservoir (52) containing a beneficial agent may be provided in fluid communication with one or more electroactive needles (40), where the electroactive needle(s) (40) a hollow bore interior for transport of the beneficial agent directly into a subject's tissues. In a related embodiment, an electroactive needle (40) is configured for intravenous and/or intramuscular use. An electrotransport system (32) comprising an electrochemically active porous substrate is also disclosed. In a still further embodiment, an electrotransport system having one or more implantable active porous electrodes (338) is disclosed.

 

US20030109808A1

Body fluid composition measuring apparatus

6/12/2003

A body fluid component measuring apparatus capable of accurately measuring a specific component in a body fluid for a short time is provided. The apparatus includes, in a main body, a measuring means 7 for detecting the sampling of a body fluid and measuring a component of the sampled body fluid, and a pump and an electromagnetic valve which constitute an evacuating mechanism. When the sampling of blood is detected, the pump is stopped to release the evacuation state. Another apparatus according to a second aspect includes a pressure detecting means and a notifying means. A puncturing means 4 is operated only when it is decided, on the basis of a result of detection by a sensor, that the housing is in an evacuation state, and after the sampling is detected, the evacuation is released and information is notified. A further apparatus according to a third aspect includes a pressure adjusting means for fluctuating the pressure.

 

EP1311310A2

MICRONEEDLE ARRAY MODULE AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME

THE CLEVELAND CLINIC FOUNDATION

5/21/2003

A microneedle array module is disclosed comprising a multiplicity of microneedles affixed to and protruding outwardly from a front surface of a substrate to form the array, each microneedle of the array having a hollow section which extends through its center to an opening in the tip thereof. The substrate includes an array of holes which align with the hollow sections of the microneedles and extend through the substrate to a back surface thereof, whereby a liquid applied to the back surface of the substrate may be forced through the holes in the substrate and out through the tips of the microneedle array thereof. In one embodiment, the substrate includes a reservoir well in the back surface thereof. The well extends over the array of holes in the back surface and may be covered by a layer of material which is affixed to the back surface peripheral the well, the layer including an interconnecting passageway to the well. A method of fabricating the microneedle array module is also disclosed comprising the step

 

US6558361B1

Systems and methods for the transport of fluids through a biological barrier and production techniques for such systems

Nanopass Ltd.

5/6/2003

A device for the transport of fluids through a biological barrier includes a number of microneedles projecting from the front face of a substrate. A conduit is associated with each of the microneedles to provide a fluid flow path for transport of fluid through a hole in the biological barrier formed by the corresponding microneedle. Each of the microneedles is configured to provide a penetrating tip, and each conduit terminates at an opening which is proximal with respect to the microneedle tip. Also described are microneedle-based devices with integrated MEMS pumping configurations for withdrawal and/or delivery of fluids, and remote healthcare systems based on such devices.

 

US20030083686A1

Tissue penetration device

5/1/2003

A tissue penetration device and method of using same. The tissue penetration device may optionally include sampling and analyzing functions, which may be integrated. An embodiment provides control of a lancet used for sampling blood. Electric field coils or solenoids may drive the lancet using electromagnetic force. Advancement and retraction of a lancet may be controlled by a feedback loop monitoring the position and velocity of the lancet embodiments of the lancet driver can be configured to follow a predetermined tissue lancing profile. Embodiments of the invention include a lancet and method for using a lancet to maintain the patency of the wound tract once the lancet has cut into the skin.

 

US20030083685A1

Sampling module device and method

5/1/2003

A tissue penetration device and method of using same that may include a lancet module or sampling module. The sampling module may optionally be in a cartridge configuration and include sampling and analyzing functions, which may be integrated.

 

US20030083645A1

Microneedle transport device

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

5/1/2003

A transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and an array of needles which have bores in fluid communication with the reservoir to facilitate transporting the formulation to and from the reservoir through the needles. The device also includes a first actuator which drives the array of needles into the body, and a second actuator which pumps the formulation between the reservoir and the body through the needles. The first actuator is reversible to withdraw the needles from the body.

 

US20030083619A1

Microneedle transdermal transport device

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

5/1/2003

A transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and a needle with a bore extending along the length of the needle from a first end of the needle to a second end of the needle. The second end is substantially aligned to a plane parallel to a body surface of a biological body when the device is placed on the body surface. The device also includes an actuator which pumps the formulation through the bore of the needle between a target area of the body and the reservoir.

 

US20030083558A1

Method of examining and diagnosing skin health

5/1/2003

The present invention relates to a method of examining skin health in a subject, the method including the steps of: accessing a sample of interstitial fluid from the skin of the subject; and measuring the amount of a skin analyte in the sample.

 

US20030078518A1

Method of treating the skin of a subject

4/24/2003

The present invention relates to a method of treating the skin of a subject, the method including the steps of: (a) accessing a sample of interstitial fluid from the skin of the subject; (b) measuring the amount of a skin analyte in the sample; and (c) applying a skin care product to the subject to alter the amount of the skin analyte in the skin of the subject.

 

US20030073229A1

Thermal regulation of fluidic samples within a diagnostic cartridge

4/17/2003

A method and miniature analytical device with thermal regulation of reactants using a localized heat source capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation, such as light emitting diodes (LED"s) and vertical cavity surface emitting lasers ("VCSEL"s)

 generating internal heat

 such as resistive

 inductive and Peltier heaters

 or external heating. The miniature analytical device comprises of array of temperature-controlled zones to restrict the volume heated and localize the heating by having the localized heat source comprise an array of emitters or heaters."

US20030069548A1

Microdevice and method of delivering of withdrawing a substance through the skin of an animal

4/10/2003

A device for withdrawing or delivering a substance through the skin of a patient includes a body and a skin penetrating device having a plurality of skin penetrating members, such microneedles. The body includes a bottom surface having a first inner surface area supporting the skin penetrating members and a second outer surface having an adhesive for attaching the device to the skin. In one embodiment, the firs inner surface is spaced outwardly from the second outer surface when the device is attached to the skin. The inner surface can have a textured visually wettable surface, such as an etched surface, to provide a visual indication of leakage from the interface between the skin penetrating members and the skin.

 

WO2003026732A2

SWITCHABLE MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO SAME

BIOVALVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

4/3/2003

The microneedle devices disclosed herein in some embodiments include a substrate; one or more microneedles; and, optionally, a reservoir for delivery of drugs or collection of analyte, as well as pump(s), sensor(s), and/or microprocessor(s) to control the interaction of the foregoing. A switch or switching matrix may be connected to the microneedles to provide a switching mechanism for opening and closing a circuit coupled to the microneedle. A switch or switching matrix may be connected to the microneedle to provide a switching mechanisms for opening and closing a circuit coupled to the microneedle.

 

US20030065401A1

Textured surface having undercut micro recesses in a surface

4/3/2003

Textured surface having micro recesses such that the outer surface overhangs the micro recesses. Embodiments of the textured surface include sharp edges for promoting bone deposition and growth within the micro recesses, protrusions of varying depth from the surface that include overhangs, and micro recesses that are at least partially defined by complex ellipsoids.

 

US6540675B2

Analyte monitor

Rosedale Medical, Inc.

4/1/2003

Provided is an analyte monitoring device having a housing, the device comprising: a plurality of needles, each having a tip, a retracted position, a position wherein the tip is extended from the housing a distance adapted to pierce skin; an electrically or spring powered needle pushing apparatus movable to separately engage each of the needles to move each from the retracted position to the extended position; an energy source located within the housing; a plurality of analysis sites comprising an analysis preparation, each adapted to receive liquid from the needles to wet the analysis preparation; one or more light sources adapted to direct light at the analysis sites; one or more light detectors adapted to receive light from the analysis sites; and a processor.

 

WO2003024507A2

MICRONEEDLES, MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS, AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO SAME

BIOVALVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

3/27/2003

The microneedle devices disclosed herein in some embodiments include a substrate; one or more microneedles; and, optionally, a reservoir for delivery of drugs or collection of analyte, as well as pump(s), sensor(s), and/or microprocessor(s) to control the interaction of the foregoing.

 

US6533949B1

Microneedle structure and production method therefor

Nanopass Ltd.

3/18/2003

A method for processing a wafer to form a plurality of hollow microneedles projecting from a substrate includes forming, by use of a dry etching process, a number of groups of recessed features, each including at least one slot deployed to form an open shape having an included area and at least one hole located within the included area. The internal surfaces of the holes and the slots are then coated with a protective layer. An anisotropic wet etching process is then performed in such a manner as to remove material from outside the included areas while leaving a projecting feature within each of the included areas. The protective layer is then removed to reveal the microneedles.

 

US20030050573A1

Analytical device with lancet and test element

3/13/2003

The invention concerns an analytical device containing a lancet comprising a lancet needle and a lancet body, the lancet needle being movable relative to the lancet body and the lancet body being composed, at least in the area of the tip of the lancet needle, of an elastic material in which the tip of the lancet needle is embedded, and an analytical test element which is permanently connected to the lancet body. In addition the invention concerns an analytical device containing a lancet comprising a lancet needle and a lancet body which is in the form of a hollow body in the area of the tip of the lancet needle and surrounds the tip of the lancet needle, the lancet needle being movable relative to the lancet body and the hollow body being composed at least partially of an elastic material, and an analytical test element which is permanently connected to the lancet body. Finally the invention concerns a process for manufacturing such an analytical device.

 

WO2002100244A3

MICROFABRICATED SURGICAL DEVICE

THE REGENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

3/6/2003

This invention relates to microfabricated surgical devices (10, 50, 52, 54, 60, 70, 80) made of conformally coated polymer (28).

 

US20030045837A1

Microneedle arrays and methods of manufacturing the same

3/6/2003

Microneedle arrays, methods of manufacturing microneedles and methods of using microneedle arrays. The microneedles in the microneedle arrays may be in the form of tapered structures that include at least one channel formed in the outside surface of each microneedle. The microneedles may have bases that are elongated in one direction. The channels in microneedles with elongated bases may extend from one of the ends of the elongated bases towards the tips of the microneedles. The channels formed along the sides of the microneedles may optionally be terminated short of the tips of the microneedles. The microneedle arrays may also include conduit structures formed on the surface of the substrate on which the microneedle array is located. The channels in the microneedles may be in fluid communication with the conduit structures. One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue.

 

EP1287847A1

Improved micro-needles and methods of manufacture and use thereof

LifeScan, Inc.

3/5/2003

A micro-needle (80) is provided which is particularly useful for the minimally invasive sampling of a biological fluid and/or the minimally invasive delivery of a drug or other formulation across the skin. The micro-needle (80) has a structure having a base (70) at a proximal end and a vertex (60) at a distal end (58), and an open lumen (55) extending there through and through which fluid may be transferred. The structure defines a structural axis (65) that intersects the lumenal axis (56) defined by the open lumen (55). The point of intersection (90) between these axes is at a point below the vertex (60) of the micro-needle (80) to provide a sharp apex (60) at the distal end (58) of the micro-needle (80) and defines the general configuration of the distal end (58) of the micro-needle (80), which may be selected or customized depending on the intended use of the microneedle (80). The micro-needle (80) may be integral with a measurement device for measuring the concentration of a constituent within sampled bio

 

US20030030184A1

Method of making device for arraying biomolecules and for monitoring cell motility in real-time

2/13/2003

The invention relates to devices, devices for arraying biomolecules, including cells, methods for arraying biomolecules, assays for monitoring cellular movement, and systems for monitoring cellular movement. The devices include a support; a first layer configured to be placed in fluid-tight contact with the support, the first layer having an upper surface and defining a pattern of micro-orifices, each micro-orifice of the pattern of micro-orifices having walls and defining a micro-region on the support when the first layer is placed in fluid-tight contact with the support such that the walls of said each micro-orifice and the micro-region on the support together define a micro-well; and a second layer configured to be placed in fluid-tight contact with the upper surface of the first layer, the second layer defining a pattern of macro-orifices, each macro-orifice of the pattern of macro-orifices having walls and defining a macro-region when the first layer is placed in fluid-tight contact with the support and

 

Nonlithographic fabrication of lateral superlattices for nanometric electromagnetic-optic applications.      Liang, Jianyu; Chik, Hope; Xu, Jimmy.    Division of Engineering,  Brown University,  Providence,  RI,  USA.    IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics  (2002),  8(5),  998-1008.  Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers,  CODEN: IJSQEN  ISSN: 1077-260X.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 138:213195    AN 2002:947370    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  A review.  A nonlithog. technique that utilizes highly ordered anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) porous membrane as a template is employed as a general fabrication means for the formation of an array of vastly different two-dimensional lateral superlattice nanostructures.  The fact that material systems as different as metals, semiconductors, and carbon nanotubes can be treated with the same ease attest to the generality of this nanofabrication approach.  The original AAO membranes det. the uniformity, packing d., and size of the nanostructures.  The flexibility of using a variety of materials, the accurate control over fabrication process, and the command over AAO template attributes, gives us the freedom of engineering various phys. properties detd. by the shape, size, compn., and doping of the nanostructures.  The novel nanomaterial platform realized by this unique technique is powerfully enabling for a broad range of applications.

 

JP2003033336A

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SAMPLING AND MEASURING BIOFLUID COMPONENT

LIFESCAN INC

2/4/2003

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device for determining the concentration of at least one kind of object component in contact biofluid by sampling the respective components of the biofluid by coming into contact with the biofluid. SOLUTION: This device has at least one micro-piercing member, which is used to intrude into the skin to a prescribed depth and comes into contact with the biofluid, a component sampling means, and a component measuring means. The component sampling means has a component transfer medium such as a hydrophilic gel material, and the respective sampled components are transferred to the measuring means from the micro-piercing member by the transfer medium. The measuring means has an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrodes, and the sampled component of at least one kind is fed into the electrochemical cell through the electrode. In addition, a method for sampling the respective components in the skin so as to measure the respective sampled components and a kit for putt

 

US20030018282A1

System for withdrawing small amounts of body fluid

1/23/2003

System for withdrawing small amounts of body fluid comprising a drive unit which has a holder which is moved from a first into a second position when the drive unit is activated, and a disposable lancing unit which has a holding area that is removably positioned in the holder, the proximal end of an elongate capillary structure comprising at least one capillary channel for transporting body fluid being connected to the holding area and the distal end of the capillary structure being suitable for piercing skin, wherein the distal end of the capillary structure is located outside the skin when the holder is arranged in a first position and in the second position is inserted into the skin up to the puncture depth, characterized in that the at least one capillary channel is open to the outside in an area which comprises at least a part of the longitudinal extension of the capillary structure. Disposable lancing unit for removing small amounts of body fluid which has a holding area to which the proximal end of an

 

US20030015807A1

Nanosyringe array and method

1/23/2003

A nanosyringe is constructed using micro fabrication and nano fabrication techniques on a silicon substrate. The nanosyringe includes a membrane of silicon carbide. The position and operation of individual nanosyringes, arranged in an array of nanosyringes, can be independently controlled. A nanosyringe array can inject or extract a fluid from one or more cells or other structures. Microfluidic structures coupled to the nanosyringe allow external pumping or extraction. A cell matrix or organelles of individual cells can be non-destructively sampled in real time.

 

WO2002017985A3

MICRONEEDLE STRUCTURE AND PRODUCTION METHOD THEREFOR

NANOPASS LTD.

1/9/2003

A method for processing a wafer to form a plurality of hollow microneedles projecing from a substrate includes forming, by use of a dry etching process, a number of groups of recessed features, each including at least one slot deployed to form an open shape having an included area and at least one hole located within the included area. The internal surfaces of the holes and the slots are then coated with a protective layer. An anisotropic wet etching process is then performed in such a manner as to remove material from outside the included areas while leaving a projecting feature within each of the included areas. The protective layer is then removed to reveal the microneedles.

 

US20030009113A1

Micro-needles and methods of manufacture and use thereof

1/9/2003

A micro-needle is provided which is particularly useful for the minimally invasive sampling of a biological fluid and/or the minimally invasive delivery of a drug or other formulation across the skin. The micro-needle has a structure having a base at a proximal end and a vertex at a distal end, and an open lumen extending there through and through which fluid may be transferred. The structure defines a structural axis that intersects the lumenal axis defined by the open lumen. The point of intersection between these axes is at a point below the vertex of the micro-needle to provide a sharp apex at the distal end of the micro-needle and defines the general configuration of the distal end of the micro-needle, which may be selected or customized depending on the intended use of the microneedle. The micro-needle may be integral with a measurement device for measuring the concentration of a constituent within sampled biological fluid and/or with a fluid reservoir for containing a fluid to be delivered, and may als

 

US6501976B1

Percutaneous biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

Lifescan, Inc.

12/31/2002

Devices and methods for sampling a biological fluid and measuring a target constituent within the biological fluid are provided. Generally, the subject devices include a sampling device configured to pierce a skin surface to provide access to biological fluid and concentrically-spaced working and reference electrodes positioned within the elongated sampling device that define an electrochemical cell for measuring the concentration of analyte within the biological fluid. The subject devices and methods are particularly suited for use in the sampling and concentration measuring of glucose in interstitial fluids. Also provided are kits that include the subject devices for use in practicing the subject methods.

 

US20020198512A1

Electroporation microneedle and methods for its use

ENDOBIONICS, INC.

12/26/2002

Electroporation of cells in target tissues is performed using microneedles having integral electrode structures. In a first embodiment, a pair of electrode structures are disposed on opposite sides of a substance delivery opening on a needle or other tissue-penetrating shaft. In a second embodiment, a first electrode structure is disposed on the needle and a second electrode structure is disposed on an attached base. The electrode structures are spaced closely together and relatively low voltages are applied to achieve electroporation-enhanced substance delivery.

 

WO2002100244A2

MICROFABRICATED SURGICAL DEVICE

THE REGENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA | SEWARD, Kirk, Patrick | PISANO, Albert, P. | STUPAR, Philip, Anthony

12/19/2002

This invention relates to microfabricated surgical devices made of conformally coated polymer.

 

US20020193754A1

Microneedles for minimally invasive drug delivery

12/19/2002

The present invention provides a microneedle incorporating a base that is broad relative to a height of the microneedle, to minimize breakage. The microneedle further includes a fluid channel and a beveled non-coring tip. Preferably arrays of such microneedles are fabricated utilizing conventional semiconductor derived micro-scale fabrication techniques. A dot pattern mask is formed on an upper surface of a silicon substrate, with each orifice of the dot pattern mask corresponding to a desired location of a microneedle. Orifices are formed that pass completely through the substrate by etching. A nitride pattern mask is formed to mask all areas in which a nitride layer is not desired. A nitride layer is then deposited on the bottom of the silicon substrate, on the walls of the orifice, and on the top of the silicon substrate around the periphery of the orifice. The nitride layer around the periphery of the orifice is offset somewhat, such that one side of the orifice has a larger nitride layer. Anisotropic etc

 

EP1266619A1

Biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices and methods

Lifescan, Inc.

12/18/2002

A device for accessing biological fluid, sampling biological fluid constituents and determining the concentration of at least one target constituent within the accessed biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and to access biological fluid, a constituent sampling means and a constituent measuring means. The constituent sampling means comprises a constituent transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic gel material, by which sampled constituents are transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode through which at least one sampled constituent is caused to enter into the electrochemical cell. Methods of sampling constituents within the skin and measuring the sampled constituents, as well as kits for practicing the invention are provided.

 

EP1266608A2

Biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

Lifescan, Inc.

12/18/2002

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring a target analyte within the biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and access biological fluid, a sampling means and a measuring means. The sampling means comprises a fluid transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic porous material, by which sampled biological fluid is transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode and, typically, a reagent material, where the electrochemical cell is configured so as to make an electrochemical measurement of a target analyte in accessed biological fluid present therein. Methods of sampling biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices.

 

EP1266607A2

Percutaneous biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement device

LifeScan, Inc.

12/18/2002

A device for sampling at least one biological fluid constituent and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one micro-needle having an open distal end used to penetrate the skin to a depth where pain and bleeding are minimized. The device further includes a hydrophilic gel within the micro-needle for sampling the biological fluid constituents and an electrochemical cell for measuring the concentration of targeted constituents within the sampled biological fluid constituents. In certain embodiments, the electrochemical cell is integrated within the micro-needle whereby the steps of sampling and measuring are performed completely in-situ. In other embodiments, the electrochemical cell is located external to the micro-needle at its proximal end. Constituent sampling and measurement systems, methods and kits are also provided.

 

US20020188245A1

Device for manipulating a needle or abrader array and method of use

12/12/2002

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for intradermally administering a pharmaceutical composition or other substance into and through the skin of a mammalian body in a manner that avoids or eliminates excess pain and discomfort normally caused as a result of the microabraders or microneedles entering the epithelial layers beneath the stratum corneum. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus is a microdevice with an array of microabraders or microneedles with a manipulating member.

 

US20020188221A1

Percutaneous biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices and methods

12/12/2002

A device for sampling at least one biological fluid constituent and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one micro-needle having an open distal end used to penetrate the skin to a depth where pain and bleeding are minimized. The device further includes a hydrophilic gel within the micro-needle for sampling the biological fluid constituents and an electrochemical cell for measuring the concentration of targeted constituents within the sampled biological fluid constituents. In certain embodiments, the electrochemical cell is integrated within the micro-needle whereby the steps of sampling and measuring are performed completely in-situ. In other embodiments, the electrochemical cell is located external to the micro-needle at its proximal end. Constituent sampling and measurement systems, methods and kits are also provided.

 

US20020188185A1

PERCUTANEOUS BIOLOGICAL FLUID SAMPLING AND ANALYTE MEASUREMENT DEVICES AND METHODS

12/12/2002

Devices and methods for sampling a biological fluid and measuring a target constituent within the biological fluid are provided. Generally, the subject devices include a sampling means configured to pierce a skin surface to provide access to biological fluid and concentrically-spaced working and reference electrodes positioned within the elongated sampling means that define an electrochemical cell for measuring the concentration of analyte within the biological fluid. The subject devices and methods are particularly suited for use in the sampling and concentration measuring of glucose in interstitial fluids. Also provided are kits that include the subject devices for use in practicing the subject methods.

 

US20020188184A1

Percutaneous biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

12/12/2002

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring at least one target constituent within the biological fluid. The device has at least one electrochemical cell having an inner electrode and an outer electrode in a concentrically-spaced relationship. In a preferred embodiment, the outer electrode has a cylindrical configuration having an open distal end and the inner electrode has an elongated configuration positioned coaxially within the outer electrode and a distal end configured to penetrate the skin. The spacing between the electrodes exerts a capillary force on biological fluid present at the open distal end of the outer electrode. A system is also provided which includes a control unit in electrical communication with the electrochemical cell for controlling the selection and measurement of the target constituent. Methods of sampling of biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices and/or systems.

 

US20020187556A1

Biological fluid constituent sampling and measurement devices and methods

12/12/2002

A device for accessing biological fluid, sampling biological fluid constituents and determining the concentration of at least one target constituent within the accessed biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and to access biological fluid, a constituent sampling means and a constituent measuring means. The constituent sampling means comprises a constituent transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic gel material, by which sampled constituents are transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode through which at least one sampled constituent is caused to enter into the electrochemical cell. Methods of sampling constituents within the skin and measuring the sampled constituents, as well as kits for practicing the invention are provided.

 

US20020185384A1

Biological fluid sampling and analyte measurement devices and methods

12/12/2002

A device for sampling a biological fluid and measuring a target analyte within the biological fluid is provided. The device has at least one micro-piercing member used to penetrate the skin to a selected depth and access biological fluid, a sampling means and a measuring means. The sampling means comprises a fluid transfer medium, such as a hydrophilic porous material, by which sampled biological fluid is transferred from the micro-piercing member to the measuring means. The measuring means includes an electrochemical cell having at least one porous electrode and, typically, a reagent material, where the electrochemical cell is configured so as to make an electrochemical measurement of a target analyte in accessed biological fluid present therein. Methods of sampling biological fluids within the skin and measuring the sampled fluids are also provided, as well as kits comprising one or more of the inventive devices.

 

US20020177858A1

Microstructures and method for treating and conditioning skin which cause less irritation during exfoliation

11/28/2002

An improved method and apparatus is provided as a system to enhance skin appearance and health, in which skin is cleaned (or exfoliated) and conditioned by use of microelements affixed to a base element or hand-held patch. The dimensions of the microelements are controlled so as to remove a certain number of layers of skin cells and to accumulate those skin cells, along with other foreign substances, into areas between the microelements. In addition, a conditioning compound or therapeutic active can be applied to the exfoliated skin to enhance the skin. Moreover, the amount of accumulated skin cells represents a self-limiting maximum quantity that cannot be substantially exceeded regardless of the number of attempts by a user to re-use the microstructure apparatus. Some of the microelement shapes are purposefully designed with distal ends that exhibit sharp edges rather than sharp tips to reduce skin irritation.

 

WO2002092882A1

METHOD FOR MAKING A MESH-AND-PLATE SURGICAL IMPLANT

TECOMET, INC.

11/21/2002

A mesh-and-plate surgical is manufactured by a method including the steps of applying a mask (22, 23) to first (28) and second (29) faces of a metal sheet (21), selectively ablating the mask on both faces, affixing a first tape (41) to the first face to cover same and maska thereon, but leaving an exposed portion (24A) for a screw hole, affixing a second tape (42) to the second face to cover same and mask thereon, etching the first face screw hole portion to form a crater (24C), removing the first tape, etching the crater and other exposed portions (24B) of the first face, removing the second tape, etching opposite (24C) the crater and other exposed portions of the second face to provide openings in communication with the crater, and other second face openings extending to the first face, and removing remaining mask to provide the implant configured to include a pliable mesh portion (43) and a rigid plate portion (33), and having a screw hole (39) therein.

 

Self-assembled magnetic nanoparticle arrays by anodization and electrodeposition.      Zangari, Giovanni; Sun, Ming; Metzger, Robert M.    Department of Metallurgica and Materials Engineering and Center for Materials for Information Technology,  University of Alabama,  Tuscaloosa,  AL,  USA.  Editor(s): Soriaga, Manuel P.    Thin Films: Preparation, Characterization, Applications, [Proceedings of a Symposium of the American Chemical Society], San Diego, CA, United States, Apr. 1-5, 2001  (2002),     137-156.  Publisher: Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers,  New York, N. Y  CODEN: 69DFBY  Conference  written in English.    CAN 138:79874    AN 2002:797992    CAPLUS   (Copyright (C) 2007 ACS on SciFinder (R))   

Abstract:  Prepn. and properties of self-assembled magnetic nanoparticle arrays formed by aluminum anodization in acidic solns. and cobalt electrodeposition on alumina template are described.

 

WO2002091922A1

PORTABLE INTERSTITIAL FLUID MONITORING SYSTEM

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY

11/21/2002

A strip-like microneedle device is provided that includes an array of hollow microneedles, a diaphragm pump to extract interstitial fluid from skin, and a sensor that detects the concentration of the fluid. The microneedle device can be interfaced to an external sensor to produce a reading, or can be self-contained. One version uses an attachable/detachable microneedle array as a single-use, disposable unit. The device is portable, and is used by placing one finger on the microneedle array, and actuating the diaphragm pump with another finger, thereby obtaining the fluid sample. Solid coated or transparent microneedles could instead be used as an in-situ sensor, with either electrodes or an optical sensor.

 

US20020173854A1

Method for making a mesh-and-plate surgical implant

Tecomet, Inc.

11/21/2002

Method for making a mesh-and-plate surgical implant includes the steps of applying maskant to first and second faces of a metal sheet, selectively ablating the maskant on both faces, affixing a first tape to the first face to cover same and maskant thereon, but leaving an exposed portion for a screw hole, affixing a second tape to the second face to cover same and maskant thereon, etching the first face screw hole portion to form a crater, removing the first tape, etching the crater and other exposed portions of the first face, removing the second tape, etching opposite the crater and other exposed portions of the second face to provide openings in communication with the crater, and other second face openings extending to the first face, and removing remaining maskant to provide the implant configured to include a pliable mesh portion and a rigid plate portion, and having a screw hole therein.

 

US20020169411A1

Portable interstitial fluid monitoring system

The Procter & Gamble Co.

11/14/2002

A strip-like microneedle device is provided that includes an array of hollow microneedles, a diaphragm pump to extract interstitial fluid from skin, and a sensor that detects the concentration of the fluid. The microneedle device can be interfaced to an external sensor to produce a reading, or can be self-contained. One version uses an attachable/detachable microneedle array as a single-use, disposable unit. The device is portable, and is used by placing one finger on the microneedle array, and actuating the diaphragm pump with another finger, thereby obtaining the fluid sample. Solid coated or transparent microneedles could instead be used as an in-situ sensor, with either electrodes or an optical sensor.

 

WO2001049362A8

METHOD OF FORMING VERTICAL, HOLLOW NEEDLES WITHIN A SEMICONDUCTOR SUBSTRATE

10/24/2002

A method of forming a needle includes the step of anisotropically etching a channel into the back side of a semiconductor substrate. The front side of the semiconductor substrate is then isotropically etched to form a vertical axial surface surrounding the channel. The resultant needle has an elongated body formed of a semiconductor material. The elongated body includes an axial surface positioned between a first end and a second end. The axial surface defines a channel between the first end and the second end. In one embodiment, the first end has a sloping tip with a single circumferential termination point.

 

US20020155737A1

Microneedle array module and method of fabricating the same

The Cleveland Clinic Foundation

10/24/2002

A microneedle array module is disclosed comprising a multiplicity of microneedles affixed to and protruding outwardly from a front surface of a substrate to form the array, each microneedle of the array having a hollow section which extends through its center to an opening in the tip thereof. The substrate includes an array of holes which align with the hollow sections of the microneedles and extend through the substrate to a back surface thereof, whereby a liquid applied to the back surface of the substrate may be forced through the holes in the substrate and out through the tips of the microneedle array thereof. In one embodiment, the substrate includes a reservoir well in the back surface thereof. The well extends over the array of holes in the back surface and may be covered by a layer of material which is affixed to the back surface peripheral the well, the layer including an interconnecting passageway to the well. A method of fabricating the microneedle array module is also disclosed comprising the step

 

US20020147467A1

Method and apparatus for skin absorption enhancement and cellulite reduction

MATTIOLI ENGINEERING LTD.

10/10/2002

Application of electrical pulses and mechanical vibrations to the skin is provided in a controlled manner, in order to increase the absorption of substances applied previously on the skin. A dermabrasion treatment is first performed on a region of the skin to be later given a skin absorption enhancement treatment. After the dermabrasion treatment, electrical pulses are provided to the skin by way of an array of electrodes disposed on a vibrating head, and the mechanical vibrations are provided to the skin by way of the vibrating head being made to vibrate. Preferably, the electrical and mechanical vibrations are at the same frequency and phase with respect to each other, in order to increase the absorption effect. Also, a suction may be applied to the skin, in order to provide for a substantially uniform absorption of the substance that was applied previously on the skin.

 

EP1244495A1

METHOD OF FORMING VERTICAL, HOLLOW NEEDLES WITHIN A SEMICONDUCTOR SUBSTRATE

The Regents of the University of California

10/2/2002

A method of forming a needle includes the step of anisotropically etching a channel into the back side of a semiconductor substrate. The front side of the semiconductor substrate is then isotropically etched to form a vertical axial surface surrounding the channel. The resultant needle has an elongated body formed of a semiconductor material. The elongated body includes an axial surface positioned between a first end and a second end. The axial surface defines a channel between the first end and the second end. In one embodiment, the first end has a sloping tip with a single circumferential termination point.

 

US20020137998A1

Silicon microprobe with integrated biosensor

9/26/2002

Microprobe device 10 provides an analyte signal from biosensor 12 to an external analyte meter indicating analyte presence in an analyte-containing bodily fluid of a subject (not shown).

 

WO2002045771A3

MICRONEEDLE ADAPTER

BIOVALVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

9/19/2002

The present invention relates to an adapter (10) for the transport of fluids with a microneedle device. The adapter can receive a syringe (20), for example, that is used to transport a fluid through the adapter for injection into a patient using the microneedle device. The adapter can include a seal (32) through which a syringe needle (24) is inserted to deliver fluid from the syringe into a fluid cavity (34) in the adapter.

 

US20020133129A1

Method of manufacturing microneedle structures using soft lithography and photolithography

9/19/2002

A method for manufacturing microneedle structures is disclosed using soft lithography and photolithography, in which micromold structures made of a photoresist material or PDMS are created. The micromold manufacturing occurs quite quickly, using inexpensive materials and processes. Once the molds are available, using moldable materials such as polymers, microneedle arrays can be molded or embossed in relatively fast procedures. In some cases a sacrificial layer is provided between the forming micromold and its substrate layer, for ease of separation. The microneedles themselves can be solid projections, hollow microtubes

 or shallow microcups." Electrodes can be formed on the microneedle arrays

 including individual electrodes per hollow microtube."US20020103499A1

Lancet device having capillary action

8/1/2002

A device for sampling body fluid, the device comprising, a main body, a lancet disposed within the main body, a carrier disposed within the main body fixedly attached to the lancet, a biasing means in communication with the lancet and the carrier, an annular space disposed within the main body adjacent the lancet, and a means for measuring a body fluid. Wherein the means for measuring the body fluid may include micro-porous test strips, an electronic testing device, an optical/reflectance testing measuring device, or a visual inspection.

 

US20020096107A1

Method for manufacturing a diamond cylinder array having dents therein

7/25/2002

A cylinder array of diamond having a dent in its cylinder top face is manufactured by subjecting a cylinder array of diamond to a plasma etching.

 

US20020087056A1

Analyte monitor

7/4/2002

Provided is an analyte monitoring device having a housing, the device comprising: a plurality of needles, each having a tip, a retracted position, a position wherein the tip is extended from the housing a distance adapted to pierce skin; an electrically or spring powered needle pushing apparatus movable to separately engage each of the needles to move each from the retracted position to the extended position; an energy source located within the housing; a plurality of analysis sites comprising an analysis preparation, each adapted to receive liquid from the needles to wet the analysis preparation; one or more light sources adapted to direct light at the analysis sites; one or more light detectors adapted to receive light from the analysis sites; and a processor.

 

US6406638B1

Method of forming vertical, hollow needles within a semiconductor substrate, and needles formed thereby

The Regents of the University of California

6/18/2002

A method of forming a needle includes the step of anisotropically etching a channel into the back side of a semiconductor substrate. The front side of the semiconductor substrate is then isotropically etched to form a vertical axial surface surrounding the channel. The resultant needle has an elongated body formed of a semiconductor material. The elongated body includes an axial surface positioned between a first end and a second end. The axial surface defines a channel between the first end and the second end. In one embodiment, the first end has a sloping tip with a single circumferential termination point.

 

WO2002045771A2

MICRONEEDLE ADAPTER

BIOVALVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | ACKLEY, Donald, E. | JACKSON, Thomas | DAVIS, Shawn

6/13/2002

The present invention relates to an adapter for the transport of fluids with a microneedle device. The adapter can receive a syringe, for example, that is used to transport a fluid through the adapter for injection into a patient using the microneedle device. The adapter can include a seal through which a syringe needle is inserted to deliver fluid from the syringe into a fluid cavity in the adapter.

 

US20020063832A1

Cone protrusion in multi-domain vertically aligned liquid crystal display

Hannstar Display Corp.

5/30/2002

A pixel unit included in a multi-domain vertically aligned liquid crystal display is provided. The pixel unit includes a first insulating substrate having a first side and a second side, a second insulating substrate having a third side and a fourth side, a plurality of liquid crystal molecules filled between the first side of the first insulating substrate and the fourth side of the second insulating substrate, an electric field generation device for providing an electric field to change alignment of the liquid crystal molecules, and a cone protrusion formed on the first side of the first insulating substrate for generating an advance inclination of the liquid crystal molecules around the cone protrusion.

 

US20020045907A1

Microstructures for treating and conditioning skin

The Procter & Gamble Company

4/18/2002

An improved method and apparatus is provided as a system to enhance skin appearance and health, in which skin is cleaned (or exfoliated) and conditioned by use of microelements affixed to a base element or hand-held patch. The dimensions of the microelements are controlled so as to remove a certain number of layers of skin cells and to accumulate those skin cells, along with other foreign substances, into areas between the microelements. In addition, a conditioning compound or therapeutic active can be applied to the exfoliated skin to enhance the skin. Moreover, the amount of accumulated skin cells represents a self-limiting maximum quantity that cannot be substantially exceeded regardless of the number of attempts by a user to re-use the microstructure apparatus.

 

US20020045859A1

Microstructures for delivering a composition cutaneously to skin

The Procter & Gamble Company

4/18/2002

An improved method and apparatus is provided as a system to deliver a composition, preferably a medical or pharmaceutical composition or active, through the stratum corneum of skin, without introducing bleeding or damage to tissue, and absent pain or other trauma. The dimensions and shapes of the microelements are controlled so as to control the penetration depth into the skin. The microelements can be hollow" such that passageways are created therethrough to allow the composition to flow from a chamber

 through the microelements

 and into the skin. Alternatively

 the microelements can be "solid

 and the composition is applied directly to the skin just before or just after the microelements are applied to the skin surface to create the openings in the stratum corneum.

WO2002017985A2

MICRONEEDLE STRUCTURE AND PRODUCTION METHOD THEREFOR

NANOPASS LTD. | YESHURUN, Yehoshua | HEFETZ, Meir | DE BOER, Meint | BERENSCHOT, J., W. | GARDENIERS, J., G., E.

3/7/2002

A method for processing a wafer to form a plurality of hollow microneedles projecing from a substrate includes forming, by use of a dry etching process, a number of groups of recessed features, each including at least one slot deployed to form an open shape having an included area and at least one hole located within the included area. The internal surfaces of the holes and the slots are then coated with a protective layer. An anisotropic wet etching process is then performed in such a manner as to remove material from outside the included areas while leaving a projecting feature within each of the included areas. The protective layer is then removed to reveal the microneedles.

 

US20020006355A1

Hollow microneedle patch

Bayer Corporation

1/17/2002

A test strip is provided for use in the determination of the concentration of an a chemical in blood. The test strip comprises a plurality of microneedles and a test area. Each microneedle is adapted to puncture skin and to draw blood. The test area is in fluid communication with the microneedles. The test area contains a reagent adapted to produce a reaction indicative of the concentration of the chemical in blood.

 

US20010053887A1

Micro infusion drug delivery device

12/20/2001

An infusion pump includes a plurality of projections configured so that they enter the subcutaneous region of the patients skin and provides a painless means of creating a breach in the stratum corneum which is sealed against leakage by the skin surrounding each projection and provides a flow path for either a basal and bolus injection of medication. The pump includes a drug reservoir containing a drug. The pump includes a microactuator and includes a housing having a foundation or lid which opens and closes so that the medication container can be inserted and supported in a delivery mode position. A micro actuator is used to advance either a roller or a piston in communication with the medication container. Attached to the micro-actuator is a device that is mounted for movement along the access of the medication container. The device indexes along the medication container that is used to dispense the medication.

 

US6331266B1

Process of making a molded device

Becton Dickinson and Company

12/18/2001

A device, preferably a micro-device, is molded from a plastic material by injection molding, compression molding or embossing. A microabrader can be molded having microneedles for abrading the stratum corneum of the skin to form an abraded site in the tissue for enhancing drug delivery. The micro-device is molded using a mold assembly having a silicon molding surface. The silicon molding surface can include a recess corresponding to the desired shape and length of the microneedles. The silicon molding surface enables micron and submicron size features to be molded from polymeric materials without the polymeric material adhering to the mold surface. Micro-devices having molded features having micron and submicron dimensions can be rapidly produced without the use of a release agent.

 

WO2001049362A1

METHOD OF FORMING VERTICAL, HOLLOW NEEDLES WITHIN A SEMICONDUCTOR SUBSTRATE

THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

7/12/2001

A method of forming a needle includes the step of anisotropically etching a channel into the back side of a semiconductor substrate. The front side of the semiconductor substrate is then isotropically etched to form a vertical axial surface surrounding the channel. The resultant needle has an elongated body formed of a semiconductor material. The elongated body includes an axial surface positioned between a first end and a second end. The axial surface defines a channel between the first end and the second end. In one embodiment, the first end has a sloping tip with a single circumferential termination point.

 

EP1088642A1

Method and apparatus for manufacturing a molded device

Becton Dickinson and Company

4/4/2001

A device, preferably a micro-device (10), is molded from a plastic material by injection molding, compression molding or embossing. A microabrader (10) can be molded having microneedles (14) for abrading the stratum corneum of the skin to form an abraded site in the tissue for enhancing drug delivery. The micro-device (10) is molded using a mold assembly having a silicon molding surface (76). The silicon molding surface (76) can include a recess (78) corresponding to the desired shape and length of the microneedles (14). The silicon molding surface (76) enables micron and submicron size features to be molded from polymeric materials without the polymeric material adhering to the mold surface. Micro-devices having molded features having micron and submicron dimensions can be rapidly produced without the use of a release agent.

 

Electrochemical self-assembly of ordered quantum dot and wire arrays.     Bandyopadhyay, Supriyo.    Virginia Commonwealth University,  USA.  Editor(s): Wang, Zhong Lin; Liu, Yi; Zhang, Ze.    Handbook of Nanophase and Nanostructured Materials  (2003),  3  121-149.  Publisher: Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers,  New York, N. Y  CODEN: 69DPQB  Conference  written in English.    AN 2003:136414

 

Synthesis of Well-Ordered Nanopores by Anodizing Aluminum Foils in Sulfuric Acid.     Sulka, G. D.; Stroobants, S.; Moshchalkov, V.; Borghs, G.; Celis, J.-P.    Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Physical Chemistry,  Jagiellonian University,  Krakow,  Pol.    Journal of the Electrochemical Society  (2002),  149(7),  D97-D103.  CODEN: JESOAN  ISSN: 0013-4651.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 137:239024    AN 2002:453080

Abstract: Well-ordered nanostructures were produced on industrial aluminum foils by one-, two-, and three-step anodizing processes performed in sulfuric acid at cell potentials between 15 and 25 V. Almost perfect triangular lattices of nanopores were obtained by the two- and three-step anodizing processes.  It was found that the third step in the anodizing process neither significantly improves the ordering of the pores nor enlarges the size of the well-ordered domains.  The effective growth rate of the oxide layer was calcd. for various cell potentials and compared with literature data.  The effect of the anodizing time on the ordering of pores and the size of the domains was established.  The pore diams. and the interpore distances were evaluated for various cell potentials, too.  Anodizing in sulfuric acid results in small pore sizes and interpore distances compared to the ones obtained by anodizing in phosphoric and oxalic acids.

 

Effect of polishing pretreatment on the fabrication of ordered nanopore arrays on aluminum foils by anodization.     Wu, M. T.; Leu, I. C.; Hon, M. H.    Department of Materials Science and Engineering,  National Cheng Kung University,  Tainan,  Taiwan.    Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology, B: Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures  (2002),  20(3),  776-782.  CODEN: JVTBD9  ISSN: 0734-211X.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 137:223357    AN 2002:433275

 Abstract: It is reported that a pretreatment step is required for the fabrication of ordered nanopore arrays on Al by anodization.  One step anodization was carried out on the Al foils with different surface features that resulted from different polishing conditions.  The effect of surface morphologies on their anodization characteristics was detd.  When the nonelectropolished Al substrate was anodized, only limited-sized ordered domains could be obtained.  Nearly perfect hcp. ordered pore arrays with domain size of .apprx.2-4 mm could be obtained on the electropolished Al substrate even with different surface features due to different electropolishing conditions.  In addn., the differences of c.d. for the electropolished and nonelectropolished substrates were affected by the distinct characteristics of the oxide.  The increase of the oxidn. current in the later stage of anodization was caused mainly by the breakdown of the oxide on the nonelectropolished substrates on which highly ordered pore arrays cannot be obtained.

 

Corrosion-related interfacial defects formed by dissolution of aluminum in aqueous phosphoric acid.     Wu, Huiquan; Hebert, Kurt R.; Gessmann, Thomas; Lynn, Kelvin G.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  Iowa State University,  Ames,  IA,  USA.    Journal of the Electrochemical Society  (2002),  149(4),  B108-B116.  CODEN: JESOAN  ISSN: 0013-4651.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 137:69599    AN 2002:316812

 Abstract: The mechanism was investigated by which pit initiation on aluminum foils during anodic etching is affected by the use of phosphoric acid as a pretreatment.  Positron annihilation measurements, coupled with at. force microscope images of foils with chem. stripped oxide layers, show evidence that the pretreatment introduces nanometer-scale voids in the metal, at or near the metal-oxide film interface.  The location and morphol. of voids compares favorably with those of pits, suggesting that voids act as pit initiation sites.  The no. of void sites was estd. to be 107 cm-2, the same magnitude as the max. no. of pits formed by anodic etching.  Capacitance measurements further indicate that the treatment decreases the surface oxide thickness to about 2 nm.  Formation of large nos. of pits during etching is promoted by either reduced oxide thicknesses or more pos. etching potentials.  It is suggested that the rate of initiation of pits at interfacial voids is detd. by the elec. field in the overlying surface oxide.

 

Nanoscale pore formation dynamics during aluminum anodization.     Thamida, Sunil Kumar; Chang, Hsueh-Chia.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  University of Notre Dame,  Notre Dame,  IN,  USA.    Chaos  (2002),  12(1),  240-251.  CODEN: CHAOEH  ISSN: 1054-1500.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 137:12283    AN 2002:162676

Abstract: A theor. anal. of nanoscale pore formation during anodization reveals its fundamental instability mechanism to be a field focusing phenomenon when perturbations on the min. of the two oxide interfaces are in phase.  Lateral leakage of the layer potential at high wave no. introduces a layer tension effect that balances the previous destabilizing effect to produce a long-wave instability and a selected pore sepn. that scales linearly with respect to voltage.  At pH >1.77, pores do not form due to a very thick barrier layer.  A weakly nonlinear theory based on long-wave expansion of double free surface problem yields two coupled interface evolution equations that can be reduced to one without altering the dispersion relation by assuming an equal and in-phase amplitude for the two interfaces.  This interface evolution equation faithfully reproduces the initial pore ordering and their dynamics.  A hodograph transformation technique is then used to det. the interior dimension of the well-developed pores in two dimensions.  The ratio of pore diam. to pore sepn. is a factor independent of voltage but varies with the pH of the electrolyte.  Both the predicted pH range where pores are formed and the predicted pore dimensions are favorably compared to exptl. data.

 

Nonlinear phenomena during electrochemical oxidation of hydrogen on platinum electrodes.     Varela, Hamilton; Krischer, Katharina.    Abteilung Physikalische Chemie,  Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft,  Berlin,  Germany.    Catalysis Today  (2001),  70(4),  411-425.  CODEN: CATTEA  ISSN: 0920-5861.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 136:190714    AN 2001:872301   

Abstract: H2 oxidn. on Pt electrodes, a comparatively simple electrocatalytic reaction, was known for a long time to exhibit a variety of complex temporal oscillations, depending on the compn. of the supporting electrolyte.  The authors report, on the one hand, recent observations of spatial instabilities in the bistable and oscillatory region in this system.  The studies indicate that the spatio-temporal dynamic is by far richer than was assumed so far.  However, aperiodic responses of the system in cyclic voltammetric expts. are described.  This behavior is similar to the one obsd. in potentiodynamic measurements during the electrooxidn. of small org. mols.  A possible common origin of all these complex, current-voltage responses is discussed.

 

A nanospintronic universal quantum gate.     Bandyopadhyay, S.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Physica E: Low-Dimensional Systems & Nanostructures (Amsterdam, Netherlands)  (2001),  11(2&3),  126-130.  CODEN: PELNFM  ISSN: 1386-9477.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 136:143013    AN 2001:757307   

Abstract: A simple self-assembled structure has been designed to perform universal 2-qubit operations.  This can act as the basic building block of a solid state nanoscale quantum information processor.  The gate consists of two tri-layered quantum dots that are electrochem. synthesized within two adjacent pores in a self-assembled porous alumina film.  The two outer layers are ferromagnetic metals or semiconductors while the middle layer is a semiconductor with long spin coherence time (e.g. silicon).  A single electron is injected into the middle semiconductor layer and its spin encodes a qubit.  A target qubit is rotated by first lifting the spin degeneracy of the corresponding electron's ground state by applying a transverse potential to induce a Rashba interaction, and then making the spin-splitting energy resonant with a globally applied AC magnetic field.  The controlled dynamics of the universal 2-qubit rotation requires exploiting the exchange coupling with the nearest neighboring dot.  This coupling makes the spin-splitting energy in the target dot dependent on the spin orientation in the control dot.  The ferromagnetic layers act as "polarizers" and "analyzers" for spin injection and detection, thus obviating the need for initialization and also providing a means for reading a qubit.

 

Capacitance-voltage spectroscopy of self assembled ordered arrays of quantum dots.     Kouklin, N.; Bandyopadhyay, S.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    IEEE International Symposium on Compound Semiconductors, Proceedings of the IEEE International Symposium on Compound Semiconductors, 27th, Monterey, CA, United States, Oct. 2-5, 2000  (2000),     303-307.  Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers,  New York, N. Y  CODEN: 69BUND  Conference  written in English.    CAN 135:325750    AN 2001:671509   

Abstract: Compd. semiconductor quantum dots, self-assembled into a two-dimensional regimented hcp. array, have been studied by capacitance-voltage spectroscopy.  The dots were synthesized by electrodepositing a semiconductor in a nanoporous alumite template formed by the anodization of aluminum.  The capacitance-voltage characteristic indicates that the dots have n-type carriers and the Fermi level is unpinned.  The capacitance traces out the regions of accumulation, depletion and inversion showing that carrier modulation is possible with a gate potential.  Thus, these structures are ideally suited for quantum-dot flash memories.

 

Magnetic and structural properties of electrochemically self-assembled Fe1-xCox nanowires.     Menon, L.; Bandyopadhyay, S.; Liu, Y.; Zeng, H.; Sellmyer, D. J.    Department of Electrical Engineering and Center for Materials Research and Analysis,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology  (2001),  1(2),  149-152.  CODEN: JNNOAR  Journal  written in English.    CAN 135:281962    AN 2001:621679   

Abstract: Fe1-xCox (0 £ x £ 1) nanowires were self-assembled by electrodeposition in porous alumina films.  The crystal structure is bee at the Fe end of the compn.  With increased addn. of Co, the crystal structure remains bcc. until .apprx.67% addn. of Co.  At the Co end, the structure is a mixt. of hcp. and fcc.  Magnetic studies show high coercivities for the Fe-Co alloys in the bcc. phase.  For Fe0.67Co0.33 nanowires of diam. 9 nm, the coercivity is .apprx.2900 Oe, whereas for Fe0.33Co0.67 nanowires, it is .apprx.2850 Oe.  Temp. and size dependence of magnetic properties show no indication of superparamagnetic effects down to wire diams. of 9 nm.

 

Interaction of passivated clusters in solution with micro-patterned surfaces: Guided flow versus defect pinning.  Parker, A. J.; Childs, P. A.; Palmer, R. E.; Brust, M.    Semiconductor Devices Group, School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering,  The University of Birmingham,  Edgbaston,  UK.    Nanotechnology  (2001),  12(1),  6-10.  CODEN: NNOTER  ISSN: 0957-4484.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 135:69152    AN 2001:320793   

Abstract: Gold nanoclusters, chem. passivated with decanethiol and dissolved in toluene, were deposited from soln. onto selected regions of oxidized silicon (100) surfaces patterned either with photoresist or an etched step.  When the perimeter of a droplet crosses the boundary between the resist and the silicon surface, the authors observe transport of cluster soln. along such discontinuities, outside of the droplet.  Such guided flow can extend for over 600 mm across the surface, producing cluster chains as narrow as .apprx. 120 nm, once the toluene has evapd.  The same expt. with an etched step produces no transport of clusters, but rather selective deposition and growth around the discontinuity.  These different responses are attributed to the step/boundary material-principally its interaction with the toluene solvent during evapn.

 

AFM study of topographical changes on aluminum surfaces in sulfuric acid under low current anodic dissolution.     Nabi, T. M.; Sambe, H.; Ramaker, D. E.    Chemistry Department,  The George Washington University,  Washington,  DC,  USA.    Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry  (2001),  501(1-2),  33-40.  CODEN: JECHES  ISSN: 0368-1874.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 135:67723    AN 2001:254377   

Abstract: A study of the anodic dissoln. of polycryst. aluminum utilizing in-situ at. force microscopy (AFM) is reported.  Terraced pyramidal walls with a const. characteristic width of 300-400 nm running relatively parallel to each other appear within a few minutes of dissoln.  Upon further dissoln., these pyramidal walls are reduced to square terraced pyramids or ziggurats of const. width.  AFM contour and profile plots reveal the extremely square and flat surfaces of the square plateaus on top of the ziggurats, all of them having the same size.  Under the dissoln. conditions utilized, nucleation occurs at dislocation sites with primarily layer-by-layer dissoln.  A long-range interaction between approaching dissoln. fronts decreases the dissoln. rate leaving the terraced pyramidal walls.  This interaction is interpreted to arise from band bending in the oxidic layer existing on the surface.  These features suggest that a strong role in the dissoln. kinetics is played by the non-local potentials caused by the electronic charge and band bending on the oxide layer.  The terracing of the walls is believed to result from a short-range or chem. dissoln. effect.  Possible applications of these prepd. surfaces are also discussed.

 

Spontaneous formation of spatiotemporal patterns at the electrode| electrolyte interface.     Krischer, K.    Fritz-Haber-Institut,  Max-Planck-Gesellschaft,  Berlin,  Germany.    Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry  (2001),  501(1-2),  1-21.  CODEN: JECHES  ISSN: 0368-1874.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 135:67663    AN 2001:254375   

Abstract: A review with 81 refs. concerning spontaneous formation of spatiotemporal patterns at the electrode| electrolyte interface is presented.  Practically every electrochem. reaction exhibits temporal instabilities, such as bistable reaction rates or spontaneous oscillations of current or potential, in some range of the external parameters.  In the presence of transport processes, or more generally of a mechanism that mediates a spatial coupling among different sites, temporal instabilities are usually accompanied by spatial symmetry breaking.  This article reviews the different ways in which reaction term and spatial coupling can interact in electrochem. systems, and it summarizes the kind of patterns that may arise under different exptl. conditions.  Emphasis is placed on establishing a connection between electrochem. mechanisms and prototype models in nonlinear dynamics to facilitate a classification of the different phenomena.  This presentation seeks to be helpful in exploring possibilities to utilize nonlinear behaviors in technol. applications; some perspectives are discussed at the end.

 

Fronts, waves, and stationary patterns in electrochemical systems.     Krischer, Katharina; Mazouz, Nadia; Grauel, Peter.    Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft,  Berlin,  Germany.    Angewandte Chemie, International Edition  (2001),  40(5),  850-869.  CODEN: ACIEF5  ISSN: 1433-7851.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 134:373287    AN 2001:211374   

Abstract: A review with 77 refs.  Oscillatory behavior was obsd. for almost all electrochem. reactions in a certain, although someArial small, range of external parameters.  Only in the past ten years has it been possible, however, to find a common explanation for the occurrence of these temporal self-organization phenomena of chem. completely different electrochem. reactions.  The breakthrough was achieved because new methods and concepts, which had been developed in nonlinear dynamics to describe the spontaneous formation of order in various disciplines, could be applied.  This development in turn was only possible because the underlying laws are universal at a certain abstr. level.  Oscillations are only one possible manifestation of nonlinear behavior.  Examples of other features that are often closely assocd. with temporal instabilities are spatial structures and waves.  Initiated by the theor. progress and the development of new exptl. techniques, spatial pattern formation in electrochem. systems was targeted for studies in the past few years.  Based on these studies, it can be predicted under which conditions temporal or spatial pattern formation can be expected.  Also, the possibility of predicting the occurrence of instabilities indicates that it might be feasible to exploit nonlinear effects to increase, for example, the yield of electrocatalytic reactions.  Here the authors discuss physicochem. mechanisms that lead to pattern formation in electrochem. systems.  At the same time, the authors stress the generic principles that are responsible for self-structuring processes in many chem. and biol. systems.

 

Highly ordered uniform quantum dots induced by ion sputtering.     Kurz, H.; Facsko, S.; Bobek, T.; Dekorsy, T.    Institute of Semiconductor Electronics, RWTH Aachen,  Aachen,  Germany.    Materials Research Society Symposium Proceedings  (2000),  618(Morphological and Compositional Evolution of Heteroepitaxial Semiconductor Thin Films),  3-10.  CODEN: MRSPDH  ISSN: 0272-9172.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 134:259700    AN 2001:183147   

Abstract: Self-organized hexagonally ordered quantum dot patterns are produced on GaSb (100) and InSb (100) surfaces by low energy Ar+ ion sputtering at normal angle of incidence.  The quantum dots are cryst., exhibiting narrow size distributions with diams. 17-80 nm depending on sputter conditions, densely packed with densities as high as 2 ´ 1011 cm-2.  The origin of the quantum dot formation is attributed to the interplay of two surface processes during ion bombardment: ion induced surface roughening, provoked by the curvature dependent sputter yield and balanced by surface diffusive processes.  The obsd. quantum dot patterns obtained at different sputter conditions show that the formation mechanism can be described by the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation.  The dominant diffusive process emerges to be effective ion induced without any mass transport on the surface, inherent to the sputtering process.

 

Processes in Open Systems on Crystal Surfaces with Low Miller Indices.     Voitenko, V. A.    St. Petersburg State Technical University,  St. Petersburg,  Russia.    Technical Physics (Translation of Zhurnal Tekhnicheskoi Fiziki)  (2001),  46(2),  234-239.  CODEN: TEPHEX  ISSN: 1063-7842.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 134:301160    AN 2001:84186   

Abstract: Exposure characteristics that were obtained when growing various films on natural low Miller index surfaces of several crystals were collected and analyzed.  An evolution theory that explains their special form was constructed.  The type of dose characteristics obtained suggests that the surface underwent a reconstruction, i.e., a nonequil. phase transition that occurs on the surface.  A quant. anal. of the expts. available has been performed.  In particular, a quant. estn. was obtained of to what extent coverage with lead hinders the oxidn. of the surface of a nickel crystal.  Upon intense light or electron irradn. of silicon, divacancies are the predominant centers of the formation of point and extended radiation defects, as well as of local regions of melting.  For some two-dimensional systems (divacancies, sulfur atoms on the surfaces of passivated semiconductors, oxide films), delay Arial and evolution Arial for the self-organized structure formed were detd.

 

The use of phosphoric acid immersion to enhance the susceptibility of aluminum to anodic pitting corrosion.     Wu, H.; Hebert, K. R.; Gessmann, T.; Lynn, K. G.    Department of Chemical Engineering,  Iowa State University,  Ames,  IA,  USA.    Proceedings - Electrochemical Society  (2000),  2000-4(Oxide Films),  189-197.  CODEN: PESODO  ISSN: 0161-6374.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 134:122672    AN 2001:80311   

Abstract: The immersion of high-purity Al foils in hot H3PO4 as a pretreatment for anodic etching in 1 M HCl at 70° was investigated.  Pit no. densities of at least 105 cm-2 were found after 100 ms potentiostatic etching of both as-received and electropolished foil, compared to the order of 103 cm-2 on as-received foil with no H3PO4 pretreatment.  Capacitance measurements suggested that this enhancement of pitting is related to a decrease of the barrier oxide thickness to »2 nm.  Also, positron annihilation measurements, along with at. force microscope images of foils with chem. stripped oxide layers, showed evidence that the pretreatment introduces 10-100 nm large metallic voids at the metal oxide film interface.  The locations and morphol. of these voids are correlated with those of pits.  Thus, the pretreatment may both introduce pitting sites and increase their activation probability by thinning the oxide layer.

 

Electrochemically self-assembled ordered nanostructure arrays: Quantum dots, dashes, and wires.     Bandyopadhyay, S.; Miller, A. E.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.  Editor(s): Nalwa, Hari Singh.    Handbook of Advanced Electronic and Photonic Materials and Devices  (2001),  6  1-27.  Publisher: Academic Press,  San Diego, Calif  CODEN: 69ARNX  Conference; General Review  written in English.    CAN 134:123982    AN 2000:856306   

Abstract: A review with 110 refs. on electrochem. self-assembled ordered nanostructure such as quantum wells, quantum dots, quantum wires and arrays.  The properties and characterization of these devices are given.  (c) 2001 Academic Press.

 

Quantum dots. Physics and applications.     Wang, Kang L.; Balandin, Alexander A.    Device Research Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of California-Los Angeles,  Los Angeles,  CA,  USA.  Editor(s): Markel, Vadim A.; George, Thomas F.    Optics of Nanostructured Materials  (2001),     515-549.  Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.,  New York, N. Y  CODEN: 69AQPW  Conference; General Review  written in English.    CAN 134:155564    AN 2000:824622   

Abstract: A review with 98 refs.  The basic phys. properties of quantum dots are presented.  The state-of-the-art fabrication techniques, different types of self-assembly and nanostamping, are summarized.  Current and possible applications are considered.

 

Early stages of pattern evolution in anodic porous oxide film on Al 6061.     Gao, Husheng; Scheeline, Alexander; Pearlstein, Arne J.    Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and Department of Chemistry,  University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign,  Urbana,  IL,  USA.    Proc. - Electrochem. Soc.  (2000),  99-33(Fundamental Aspects of Electrochemical Deposition and Dissolution),  101-109.  CODEN: PESODO  ISSN: 0161-6374.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 133:356607    AN 2000:728734   

Abstract: The evolution of anodic porous oxide films on Al 6061 in phosphoric acid was studied using a coaxially rotating, axially translating electrochem. reactor.  The mass transfer rate is controlled by a const.-vol. continuous-feed electrolyte reservoir and a rotating cylindrical counter electrode, which supports stable Taylor vortex flow in the electrolyte.  The results show that oxide film forms uniformly on the surface of Al alloy and the film/soln. interface is planar at the beginning of the oxidn. process.  When the film reaches a crit. thickness, the planar interface becomes unstable, and oxide film grows and dissolves nonuniformly across the metal/film and film/soln. interfaces.  As the dissoln. becomes more localized, a cellular structure forms and gradually evolves to more nearly circular structures.

 

Size dependence of the magnetic properties of electrochemically self-assembled Fe quantum dots.     Menon, L.; Zheng, M.; Zeng, H.; Bandyopadhyay, S.; Sellmyer, D. J.    Department of Electrical Engineering and Center for Materials Research and Analysis,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Journal of Electronic Materials  (2000),  29(5),  510-514.  CODEN: JECMA5  ISSN: 0361-5235.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 133:216660    AN 2000:525045   

Abstract: A quasi-periodic array of Fe quantum dots of cylindrical shape has been synthesized by electrodeposition of Fe in porous alumina.  By controlling the fabrication parameters, we have controlled the length, diam., and spacing of the dots.  The magnetic properties are shown to depend on these parameters.  It has been found that at room temp., there exists a crit. diam. of the dots for which the coercivity is a max.  The largest value of coercivity obtained at room temp. is 2640 Oe which rises to 2900 Oe on annealing.  At a low temp. of 5K, an increase in coercivity is obsd. for most of the samples.  The largest value is 3800 Oe which rises to a value of 4100 Oe in the corresponding annealed counterpart.  At 5K, no max. is seen in the coercivity as a function of diam.  Instead, the coercivity is found to decrease with increasing diam.  This dependence of the coercivity on diam. is discussed in terms of localized reversal effects.

 

Chemically self-assembled nanoelectronic computing networks.     Bandyopadhyay, S.; Roychowdhury, V. P.; Janes, D. B.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    International Journal of High Speed Electronics and Systems  (1998),  9(1),  1-35.  CODEN: IHSSEF  ISSN: 0129-1564.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 133:170582    AN 2000:435054   

Abstract: A review with 72 refs.  Recent advances in chem. self-assembly will soon make it possible to synthesize extremely powerful computing machinery from metallic clusters and org. mols.  These self-organized networks can function as Boolean logic circuits, associative memory, image processors, and combinatorial optimizers.  Computational or signal processing activity is elicited from simple charge interactions between clusters which are resistively/capacitively linked by conjugated mol. wires or ribbons.  The resulting circuits are massively parallel, fault-tolerant, ultrafast, ultradense and dissipate very little power.

 

Self-assembled nanoelectronic quantum computer based on the Rashba effect in quantum dots.     Bandyopadhyay, S.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Physical Review B: Condensed Matter and Materials Physics  (2000),  61(20),  13813-13820.  CODEN: PRBMDO  ISSN: 0163-1829.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 133:97806    AN 2000:360568   

Abstract: Quantum computers promise vastly enhanced computational power and an uncanny ability to solve classically intractable problems.  However, few proposals exist for robust, solid-state implementation of such computers where the quantum gates are sufficiently miniaturized to have nanometer-scale dimensions.  A new approach is presented whereby a complete computer with nanoscale gates might be self-assembled using chem. synthesis.  It is demonstrated how to self-assemble the fundamental unit of this quantum computer-a two-qubit universal quantum gate-based on two exchange coupled multilayered quantum dots.  It is shown how these gates can be wired using thiolated conjugated mols. as elec. connectors.  Each quantum dot in this architecture consists of ferromagnet-semiconductor-ferromagnet layers.  The ground state in the semiconductor layer is spin split because of the Rashba interaction and the spin-splitting energy can be varied by an external electrostatic potential applied to the dot.  A spin polarized electron is injected into each dot from one of the ferromagnetic layers and trapped by Coulomb blockade.  Its spin orientation encodes a qubit.  Arbitrary qubit rotations are effected by bringing the spin-splitting energy in a target quantum dot in resonance with a global ac magnetic field by applying a potential pulse of appropriate amplitude and duration to the dot.  The controlled dynamics of the universal two-qubit rotation operation can be realized by exploiting the exchange coupling with the nearest-neighboring dot.  The qubit (spin orientation) is read via the current induced between the ferromagnetic layers under an applied potential.  The ferromagnetic layers act as "polarizers" and "analyzers" for spin injection and detection.  A complete prescription for initialization of the computer and data input/output operations is presented.

 This paradigm, to the best of our knowledge, draws together two great recent scientific advances: one in materials science (nanoscale self-assembly) and the other in information science (quantum computing).

 

Nanoscopic studies of stainless steel electropolishing.     Vignal, V.; Roux, J. C.; Flandrois, S.; Fevrier, A.    Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, UPR CNRS 8641, Universite Bordeaux I,  Pessac,  Fr.    Corros. Sci.  (2000),  42(6),  1041-1053.  CODEN: CRRSAA  ISSN: 0010-938X.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:340447    AN 2000:278389   

Abstract: Nanoscopic AFM studies of electrobrightening of stainless steel show that, under well defined exptl. conditions, a regular network of hexagonal cells (100 nm wide) can be obsd. at the surface of this alloy as it was at the electropolished aluminum surface.  Its origin is tentatively attributed to an electroconvection process occurring at the metal/electrolyte interface.

 

Long-scale ordered nano-patterns formed by electrochemical polishing and anodization of polycrystalline and single crystal aluminum.     Konovalov, Valery V.; Metzger, Robert M.; Zangari, Giovanni.    Center for Materials for Information Technology,  University of Alabama,  Tuscaloosa,  AL,  USA.    Proc. - Electrochem. Soc.  (2000),  99-34(Electrochemical Technology Applications in Electronics),  203-208.  CODEN: PESODO  ISSN: 0161-6374.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:314948    AN 2000:241983   

Abstract: Nano-scale self-ordering in anodic porous alumina films and on electropolished aluminum surfaces was studied.  The Masuda process for pore ordering, consisting of a single cycle of long-time anodization plus stripping of the oxide layer, was extended to multi-cycle variant.  A multi-cycle process increases the initial ordering rate, but as soon as the ordered domain area of 1-1.5 mm2 is achieved, the ordering rate slows down, and does not depend on initial ordering.  Long-time anodization improves the ordering; after 100 h an ordering on 10´10 mm2 size is demonstrated by 2-dimensional Fourier anal.  Electropolishing Al single crystals produce different topogs. on different cryst. faces.  For Al (110) highly ordered periodic stripes (periodicity 40-65 nm, height 2-7 nm) covered the whole sample (area » 1 cm2).  On Al (100) and Al (111) surfaces ordered topogs. with hexagonal symmetry were obtained (periodicity 62-70 nm, height 5-10 nm), but only over 1-2 mm2 domains.

 

An electron-donor, band-bending mechanism for understanding the effects of anodic dissolution and dilute metal alloying on the pitting corrosion of aluminum in chloride media.     Ramaker, David E.; Nabi, Tarik M.    Chemistry Department,  The George Washington University,  Washington,  DC,  USA.    Proc. - Electrochem. Soc.  (1999),  99-27(Passivity and Localized Corrosion),  551-560.  CODEN: PESODO  ISSN: 0161-6374.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:314930    AN 2000:241938   

Abstract: An electrochem. dissoln. treatment on cryst. aluminum surfaces, described in a previous study, results in a substantial improvement of the passivation and corrosion properties.  A band-bending mechanism in the oxide overlayer is proposed based on the existence of O- sites, which serve as the receptor sites for the dissoln. in acid, as well as for corrosion in chloride media.  This band bending reflects the existence of a long-range electrostatic interaction, which is responsible for the formation of large geometric features on the surface, and is also believed to play a role in the corrosion process.  XPS and AES data were used to develop a consistent model and comparison of the proposed model is made with previous models.

 

Magnetic nanowires in hexagonally ordered pores of alumina.     Metzger, Robert M.; Konovalov, Valery V.; Sun, Ming; Xu, Tao; Zangari, Giovanni; Xu, Bin; Benakli, Mourad; Doyle, W. D.    Department of Chemistry and the Center for Materials for Information Technology,  University of Alabama,  Tuscaloosa,  AL,  USA.    IEEE Trans. Magn.  (2000),  36(1, Pt. 1),  30-35.  CODEN: IEMGAQ  ISSN: 0018-9464.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:302300    AN 2000:192740   

Abstract:

Acid-anodized aluminum forms amorphous alumina with long and columnar nanopores with approx. hexagonal ordering ("alumite").  Excellent hexagonal ordering of these nanopores has been achieved by 24 h of anodization, but with restricted domain size (2-4 mm2), which can be increased to 100 mm2 with longer anodization.  We have deposited Fe in disordered pores and Co in ordered pores; we can control the av. length and diam. of these nanowires, but there is still a distribution of nanowire lengths.  Previously, we described Fe nanowires with diams. down to 11 nm in disordered pores.  Here we focus on longer (770 nm) and shorter (64 nm) Co nanowires with diams. of 25 nm in ordered pores with 100 nm pore-to-pore sepn.  The longer wires have an easy axis out-of-plane, with squareness > 0.9, coercivity = 1900 Oe, and a fluctuation field of 5.3 Oe.  The shorter wires are more isotropic, with lower coercivities (»1300 Oe) and larger fluctuation fields »8.4 Oe.

 

Polycrystalline and monocrystalline pore arrays with large interpore distance in anodic alumina.     Li, A. P.; Muller, F.; Gosele, U.    Max-Planck-Institute of Microstructure Physics,  Halle,  Germany.    Electrochem. Solid-State Lett.  (2000),  3(3),  131-134.  CODEN: ESLEF6  ISSN: 1099-0062.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:186801    AN 2000:119558   

Abstract: The authors prepd. hexagonally arranged pore arrays with large interpore distance (200-460 nm) by using two kinds of techniques: a self-organization process and a prepattern guided anodization on aluminum.  The self-organized pore arrays were produced by anodizing aluminum in an aq. phosphoric acid soln. (H3PO4:CH3OH:H2O = 1:10:89) and show a polycryst., i.e., polydomain, feature.  Within each domain of several micrometers, the arrays are hexagonally arranged with an interpore distance of 460 nm, while the domains are oriented randomly in plane.  A monocryst. pore array structure with variable interpore distance was prepd. based on electron-beam lithog. and a subsequent anodization in oxalic acid soln.  With a well-designed set of anodization parameters, the prepattern can act as the initiation points and guide the pore growth in the anodic film.  Very high aspect ratios (.apprx.500) can be achieved.

 

Electronic bistability in electrochemically self-assembled quantum dots: A potential nonvolatile random access memory.     Kouklin, N.; Bandyopadhyay, S.; Tereshin, S.; Varfolomeev, A.; Zaretsky, D.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Appl. Phys. Lett.  (2000),  76(4),  460-462.  CODEN: APPLAB  ISSN: 0003-6951.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:188464    AN 2000:58298   

Abstract: An electronic bistability was obsd. in a two-dimensional spatially ordered array of 10 nm quantum dots self-assembled by electrodepositing CdS in nanoporous anodic alumite film.  The current-voltage characteristic of the array shows switching between two stable conductance states, which can be controlled by an external bias.  The bistability is obsd. when current flows laterally between two contacts on the top surface of the array, and also when current flows vertically between a top contact and the bottom (conducting) substrate.  If the system is left in one conductance state, it remains there for at least 180 h and possibly much longer, until switched to the other state by an external bias.  Such an effect may find applications in inexpensive, ultradense nonvolatile static random access memory.

 

Raman spectroscopy of electrochemically self-assembled CdS quantum dots.     Balandin, A.; Wang, K. L.; Kouklin, N.; Bandyopadhyay, S.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of California-Riverside,  Riverside,  CA,  USA.    Appl. Phys. Lett.  (2000),  76(2),  137-139.  CODEN: APPLAB  ISSN: 0003-6951.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:99731    AN 2000:21174   

Abstract: The authors report a Raman spectroscopy study of electrochem. self-assembled quasiperiodic arrays of CdS quantum dots with characteristic feature size of 10 nm.  The dots were synthesized using electrochem. deposition of CdS into a porous anodized alumina film.  Polarization-dependent Raman scattering study over an extended frequency range reveals the quantization of electronic states in the conduction band and intersubband transitions.  Raman peaks obsd. at 2919 and 3050 cm-1 are attributed to transitions between the lowest two subbands.  Probably quantum dot arrays, produced by inexpensive robust electrochem. means, may be suitable for IR detector applications.

 

Structure and magnetization of arrays of electrodeposited Co wires in anodic alumina.     Strijkers, G. J.; Dalderop, J. H. J.; Broeksteeg, M. A. A.; Swagten, H. J. M.; de Jonge, W. J. M.    Department of Physics and Research School COBRA,  Eindhoven University of Technology,  Eindhoven,  Neth.    J. Appl. Phys.  (1999),  86(9),  5141-5145.  CODEN: JAPIAU  ISSN: 0021-8979.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 132:29768    AN 1999:663915   

Abstract: Arrays of Co nanowires were produced in anodic porous Al2O3 filters by means of electrodeposition.  The structure and magnetization behavior of the wires was studied with NMR and magnetization measurements.  NMR shows that the wires consist of a mixt. of fcc. and hcp. texture with the (0001) texture of the hcp. fraction oriented preferentially perpendicular to the wires.  The magnetization direction is detd. by a competition of demagnetizing fields and dipole-dipole fields and can be tuned parallel or perpendicular to the wires by changing the length of the wires.

 

Magnetic properties of self-assembled Fe quantum dashes.     Menon, L.; Zheng, M.; Zeng, H.; Sellmyer, D. J.; Bandyopadhyay, S.    Department of Electrical Engineering and Center for Materials Research and Analysis,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Proc. - Electrochem. Soc.  (1999),  99-22(Advanced Luminescent Materials and Quantum Confinement),  413-422.  CODEN: PESODO  ISSN: 0161-6374.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 131:345484    AN 1999:650993   

Abstract: Regimented two-dimensional arrays of iron (a-Fe) quantum dashes were synthesized by electrodepositing elemental Fe into self-ordered nanopores in an anodized alumite film.  The Fe dashes in the pores have the shape of rotational ellipsoids (American football) whose major and minor axes dimensions can be varied by appropriate processing control.  The authors have exptl. studied the time dependent magnetization properties of these dashes as a function of their transverse dimension (minor axis).  There is a trade-off between the magnetic viscosity and the inter-particle interaction causing spontaneous demagnetization.  Consequently, there must exist an optimum particle diam. (for a fixed areal particle d.) to achieve the most stable magnetization.

 

Self-assembled quantum dots: the route to novel optical, electronic, magnetic and superconducting properties.     Bandyopadhyay, S.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Bull. Mater. Sci.  (1999),  22(3),  537-542.  CODEN: BUMSDW  ISSN: 0250-4707.  Journal; General Review  written in English.    CAN 131:207289    AN 1999:523430   

Abstract: A review with many refs.  The authors report recent results pertaining to the magnetic, optical, electronic, superconducting, and topog. properties of electrochem. self-assembled quantum dots.  These dots self-order into two-dimensional hexagonal-close-packed arrays that are among the most periodic reported so far.  They have revealed interesting properties with potential applications in magnetics, electronics, non-linear optics, and novel neural architectures for ultrafast computation and signal processing.

 

Highly ordered nanotopographies on electropolished aluminum single crystals.     Konovalov, V. V.; Zangari, G.; Metzger, R. M.    Center for Materials for Information Technology and Departments of Chemistry and Metallurgical and Materials Engineering,  The University of Alabama,  Tuscaloosa,  AL,  USA.    Chem. Mater.  (1999),  11(8),  1949-1951.  CODEN: CMATEX  ISSN: 0897-4756.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 131:231789    AN 1999:455194   

Abstract: Highly ordered nanotopogs. on electropolished aluminum single crystals were dependent of the surface cryst. orientation. The Al(110) surface exhibited a regular striped topog. over the whole sample (1cm2).

 

Polycrystalline nanopore arrays with hexagonal ordering on aluminum.     Li, A. P.; Muller, F.; Birner, A.; Nielsch, K.; Gosele, U.    Max-Planck-Institute of Microstructure Physics,  Halle,  Germany.    J. Vac. Sci. Technol., A  (1999),  17(4, Pt. 1),  1428-1431.  CODEN: JVTAD6  ISSN: 0734-2101.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 131:162580    AN 1999:418242   

Abstract: Nanopore arrays with 6 ´ 108-5 ´ 1010 cm-2 pore densities were fabricated by self-organized anodization on aluminum.  A two-step anodization process was used to oxidize aluminum in oxalic, sulfuric, and phosphoric acid solns.  Hexagonally ordered pore arrays were obtained within domains of a few micrometers, which are sepd. from neighboring domains with different orientation of the pore lattice by domain boundaries, i.e., the nanopore arrays show characteristics analogous to two-dimensional polycryst. structure.  The interpore distance can be controlled by changing the electrolyte and/or the applied voltage.

 

Electrochemically self-assembled quantum dot arrays.     Bandyopadhyay, S.; Menon, L.; Kouklin, N.; Zeng, H.; Sellmyer, D. J.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    J. Electron. Mater.  (1999),  28(5),  515-519.  CODEN: JECMA5  ISSN: 0361-5235.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 131:53080    AN 1999:314199   

Abstract: The authors report some results pertaining to the magnetic, optical and topog. properties of electrochem. self-assembled quantum dots.  Some of these dots self-order into two-dimensional hcp. arrays that are among the most periodic reported so far.  The authors will review nonlinear optical properties of self-assembled CdS quantum dots and present new results pertaining to the nanomagnetic properties of Co dots.  These structures may have important applications in magnetics, electronics and nonlinear optics.

 

Deposition of passivated gold nanoclusters onto prepatterned substrates.     Parker, A. J.; Childs, P. A.; Palmer, R. E.; Brust, M.    School of Physics and Astronomy, and Nanoscale Physics Research Laboratory, School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Semiconductor Devices Group,  The University of Birmingham,  Edgbaston, Birmingham,  UK.    Appl. Phys. Lett.  (1999),  74(19),  2833-2835.  CODEN: APPLAB  ISSN: 0003-6951.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 130:345591    AN 1999:289486   

Abstract: Au nanoclusters, chem. passivated with decanethiol, have been deposited from soln. onto SiO2 surfaces prepatterned by photolithog.  After lift-off of the photoresist, preferential cluster accumulation is obsd. along the edges of the resist structures.  Elsewhere on the hydrophilic surface, islands of clusters are obsd.  By contrast, HF treatment, creating a hydrophobic surface, leads to wetting of the unmasked regions of the substrate by the passivated clusters.

 

Electronic bistability in an electrochemically self-assembled array of semiconductor quantum dots.     Bandyopadhyay, S.; Kouklin, N.; Menon, L.; Balandin, A.; Zaretsky, D.; Varfolomeev, A.; Tereshin, S.    Department of Electrical Engineering,  University of Nebraska,  Lincoln,  NE,  USA.    Proc. - Electrochem. Soc.  (1999),  98-19(Quantum Confinement: Nanostructures),  371-377.  CODEN: PESODO  ISSN: 0161-6374.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 130:319046    AN 1999:215051   

 Abstract: A novel electronic bistability has been obsd. in a two-dimensional array of electrochem. self-assembled CdS quantum dots dispersed in alumina.  The dots are produced by electrodepositing CdS in 100 .ANG.-sized self-organized pores in a nanoporous alumina film produced by the anodization of an aluminum foil in sulfuric acid.  The current-voltage characteristic of the array shows two distinct conductance states.  The system switches from one conductance state to another if the dc bias is taken past a threshold voltage.  This bistable behavior is perfectly repeatable.  If the system is left in one conductance state, it remains there indefinitely until switched to the other state by the application of an external dc bias.  A speculative model is proposed which may explain this behavior.  Such an effect may find applications in extremely dense static random access memory.

 

Disturbed array formation of electrochemically grown self-organized nanostructures.     Dierickx, D. D.; Celis, J. P.; Moshchalkov, V. V.    Dept. of Physics, Laboratory of Solid State Physics and Magnetism,  K.U.Leuven,  Heverlee,  Belg.    Mater. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc.  (1998),  517(High-Density Magnetic Recording and Integrated Magneto-Optics: Materials and Devices),  331-335.  CODEN: MRSPDH  ISSN: 0272-9172.  Journal  written in English.    CAN 130:18271    AN 1998:701583   

Abstract: The formation of electrochem. etched, self-organized nanostructures on aluminum enables the prodn. of large area regular arrays in a fast and cost-effective way.  These microstructures could form the basis to develop masks for subsequent materials deposition without the need for time consuming patterning techniques.  The desired regular arrays result from a steady state interaction between the electrolyte and samples' surface under the influence of a cell potential.  The type of array formed depends on this cell potential and shows an evolution from lines to dots.  Although a gradual progress towards a regular lattice spanning large areas is expected, the presence of initial disturbances of the samples' surface or bulk distorts the final lattice considerably.  In this work the modulation depth and type of the resultant nanostructures produced at different cell potentials are assessed in view of practical applications.

 

Li-FY Zhang-L Metzger-RM

On the Growth of Highly Ordered Pores in Anodized Aluminum-Oxide (English) => Article

CHEMISTRY OF MATERIALS 1998, Vol 10, Iss 9, pp 2470-2480

 

Bandyopadhyay S, Balandin A, Roychowdhury VP, et. al.

Nanoelectronic implementations of reversible quantum logic.

Superlattices and Microstructures (1998) 23: (3-4), pp 445-464

 

Gradzielski-M

Physical-Chemistry 1997 (German) => Review

NACHRICHTEN AUS CHEMIE TECHNIK UND LABORATORIUM 1998, Vol 46, Iss 2, pp 204-220

 

Voitenko-VA Malkhanov-SE

Radiation Breakdown in Silicon-Wafers (English) => Article

JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL AND THEORETICAL PHYSICS 1998, Vol 87, Iss 3, pp 581-587

 

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