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IV Heath Technology Inventions
Table of Contents
How To Use This Table of Contents
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Technology Inventions
Activation of Surgical Implants
Actively Controllable Sterilizing Excitation Delivery Implants
Adaptive Dispensation in a Digestive Tract
Adaptive Vision Modification with Automatic Adjustable Lenses
Adjustable, Remotely Controllable, Orthopedic Implants
Anti-inflammatory Compositions and Devices
Arbitrary Peptide Synthesis
Auto-Fluorescent Imaging and Target Ablation
Automatic Needle Insertion—Drawing Blood for Glucose Testing
Bone Cage Devices for Delivery of Biologically Active Molecules
Circulatory Monitoring Systems
Circulatory Monitoring—Wearable Occlusions Monitoring Device
Combination of Medicine and Virtual Experience
Combination of Medicine and Virtual Experience for Memory Modification
Computational Systems for Suggesting Modulators of CYP450
Computed Epitope Immune Response Therapies
Customized Blood Vessel Sleeving and Stents
Devices and Compositions for Controlling pH in Pulmonary Tissues
Devices for Controllably Reducing Target Components that Modulate Disease
Devices for Patterning on Skin and Hair Removal from Skin
Diagnosis via Spider Charts Representing Patient Characteristics
Diagnostic Assistance Systems
Diagnostic Imaging Kiosk
Dispensing of Consumable Compositions via Programmable Cups
Dispensable Contouring Hospital Beds
Distortion-Compensated Imaging
Distributed Systems for Postural Warning and Advisory
Embedded Diagnostic Modules
Ex Vivo Activation of Final Dosage Forms
Frozen Particle Compositions for Surface Abrasions and Delivery
Gene Analysis to Determine Vaccines for Cancer Treatment
Hair Analysis to Estimate Timing of Toxic Substance Ingestion
Health Services Planning and Matching
Health-Related Signaling via Wearable Items
Image-Guided Airway Intubation
Image-Guided Surgery with Dynamic Image Reconstruction
Imaging of Body Temperatures
Imaging via Blood Vessels
Implanted Agent Delivery Devices and Sensors
Infection Fighting and Monitoring Shunts and Catheters
Internal Devices Controlling the Operation of Ingestible Devices
Intrusion-Resistant, Secure, Implantable Medical Devices
Ionizing Radiation Responsive Compositions and Systems
Lumen-Traveling Devices
Maintaining Physiological Levels of Steroid Hormones
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Table of Contents
Malaria Detection and Treatment via Hemozoin Detection and Disruption
Mechanisms to Provide Treatment in Desired Body Locations
Microfluidic Chips for Allergen and Pathogen Detection
Monitoring and Treating Syringe Mechanism
MRI Using Targeted Ferromagnetic Compositions
Neuromodulation Based on Activity State
Neurotropic Agent Delivery via Implantable Devices
Nucleic Acid Hybridization
Nutraceutical
Path-Following Surgical Tool
Photoactivatable Targeting Compositions Made of Modified RBCs
Photolyzable Nitric Oxide Donors
Physiologic and Health Monitoring Devices
Position-Augmenting Mechanism
Power Generation from Intra-luminal Pressure Changes
Predicting and Underwriting Risk Based on Epigenetic Information
Predicting Clinical Outcomes Based on Epigenetics and mtDNA Information
Predicting Pathogen Variants and Molecular Inhibitors
Presenting an Inhalation Experience
Preventing RNA Degradation by Administering RNase Inhibitors
Regime Monitoring by Analyzing Body Fluid Conditions
Remotely Controlled Substance Delivery and Reaction Devices
Selection of Compounds for Multiphasic Epithelial Cellular Regulation
Selective Resonance of Chemical Structures
Self-Sanitizing Surfaces
Self-Sanitizing Cutting Tools
Skin as a Patient Management Tool
Smart Dispensation Systems
Spectroscopic Detection of Malaria via the Eye
Steerable, Maneuverable Surgical Stapler with Tissue Sealants
Subdermal Analyte Obtaining Devices—Blood Glucose Testing
Surgical Feedback and Surgical Instrument Navigation System
Surgical Instruments with Tissue Sealant Dispensers
Surgical Probe for Expedited Histological Examination and Treatment
System for Delivering Material to a Subdermal Device
System for Methods for Disinfecting Areas
System for Genome Selection for Fertilization and Breeding
System for Suggesting Agents Based on Biomedical Data
System for Suggesting Treatments Based on Tissue Coding
Temperature-Stabilized Storage Containers
Tissue Closure Techniques with the Use of Anchors
Tracking Therapeutic Agent Regimens by Administering Taggants
Transmit Power Transdermally In and Out of a Living Body
Tubular Nanostructure Compositions Targeting Cell Membranes
Utensils for Monitoring Food Content During Consumption
Vasculature and Lymphatic System Imaging and Ablation
Verification of Patient Treatment Procedure and Data Management
Wireless ICU
X-Ray Imager Based on Compton Scattering
X-Ray Imager Based on X-Ray Fluorescence
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Activation of Surgical Implants
Technologies are provided for developing implantable devices that, upon receipt of coded spatiotemporal signals from an
external device, provide actuation signals to their movable components in order to change their configuration.
The external signaling device can be secured to the body or conform to the surface of the body; it can include multiple
signaling units that have a spatial arrangement. The signals can be spatially and/or temporally separated combinations of
magnetic, electric, acoustic, electromagnetic, or optical signals. The external device may also receive signals from the implant.
The external device can send coded signals that command the implant to retrieve data, send out actuation signals, etc.
The implant can authenticate and check permission levels on signals received from the external device, with varying
permissions depending on the state of the body, which may be determined via sensors that measure a variety of physiologic
or pathologic parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, neurologic activity, etc.
These technologies can be applied to implants that are used to engage a variety of anatomical structures and organs, such
as vertebrae or bony structures, tissue expanders, stents, shunts, drug reservoirs, artificial joints, gastric bands, artificial
sphincters, orthodontic appliances, cosmetic implants, or other types of implants.
Spinal screws and connectors between vertebrae can have adjustable length or rigidity to allow the surgeon to remotely
adjust the rigidity of the spinal screws in order to facilitate bone growth and healing.
Tissue expanders, commonly used to grow skin grafts, can be configured to expand mechanically to facilitate stretching of
the skin, which can eliminate the need for periodic injection of saline into the expanders.
Stents can include a biocompatible wire frame held by two actuator rings that can expand or contract to adjust the size of the
stent, depending on the received signals and changes in the underlying pathology. Artificial sphincters can include a similar
wireframe design with actuator rings that open or close in response to signals.
Other examples include:
• Drug reservoirs configured to dispense drugs in response to signals
• Breast implants that gradually increase in size to allow gradual stretching of the skin
• Intramural devices such as gastrointestinal scopes and cameras that can be remotely controlled
• Orthodontic braces, where the patient can control the signaling device to provide signals to shift the braces
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Actively Controllable Sterilizing Excitation Delivery Implants
Technologies are provided for developing controllable implants that prevent or treat infection by delivering a sterilizing
stimulus to nearby tissues. Sterilizing stimulus can include delivery of energy such as electrical, electromagnetic, thermal, or
acoustic energy. Implants can also be configured to deliver disinfecting or other agents. These technologies can be applied
to a variety of implants, such as breast, cochlear, dental, neural, and orthopedic implants; prostheses; implantable electronic
devices; stents; artificial hearts; joints; etc.
Implants can contain a variety of components, including:
• Controllers that determine the location, duration and intensity of the required stimulus, and manage delivery of the stimulus or disinfecting agents
• Sensors that sense physiologic information about the patient and pathogenic information such as the presence of infections
• An energy source that harvests energy from the body, such as a generator that harvests biomechanical energy generated by movement (e.g., walking or movement of the joints) or thermal energy such as body heat generated by the patient
• Reservoirs or coatings to store disinfecting agents that can be energetically activated (e.g., the disinfecting agent can be a photo-activated, antimicrobial agent)
• Scaffold-forming materials such as bone forming agents that can be released to help anchor the implant and promote bone growth around the implant
Implants can be used to form antimicrobial agents such as superoxidized water (in vivo) by applying energy to interstitial
fluid in the vicinity of the target tissue. Implants can have self-cleaning super-hydrophobic coatings.
Implants can be configured to send or receive encrypted (to protect privacy) information and can:
• Receive instructions on how to administer sterilizing stimulus
• Receive authentication information
• Receive regulatory compliance protocols such as FDA protocols
• Send confirmation on sterilizing stimulus delivery
• Send authentication response
• Send captured sensor data
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Adaptive Dispensation in a Digestive Tract
Technologies are provided for developing a device that can be swallowed and can “loiter” in various parts of the
gastrointestinal (GI) tract for extended time periods. The device can dispense bioactive materials for treatment of a variety of
local GI tract pathologies or systemic diseases.
The device can also include modules such as:
• Sensors that can capture information to determine frequency and dosage of the medication
• Reservoirs that store bioactive materials such as hormones, vasodilators, antibiotics, pain relievers or appetite suppressants
• A controller that can determine which ports to open depending on which medication needs to be dispensed
• A wireless component that can communicate with other dispensers, or an external device such as a PDA, about dosage, frequency and the remaining level of the delivered medication
The modules can be arranged in various configurations, such as in the shape of a cube, polyhedron or loop. Each module can
also be small enough to pass through the digestive tract independently. Modules can engage or disengage from each other
magnetically or be connected by tethers. The dispenser’s external surface can be developed from water insoluble polymers.
In some variants, a dispenser is supported by a tether that can be used to supply medication and guide its release from the
dispenser in response to a predetermined ingested material. Medication can be dispensed continuously over a predetermined
period of time or upon receipt of a wireless signal from an external or mobile device.
Multiple modules present in the GI tract can communicate with each other to dispense, image, move, measure or release in a
cooperative fashion. Dispensers can attach to the mucous membrane of various parts of the GI tract by releasing an adhesivecontaining material or a binding agent; they can detach by dispensing an adhesive solvent, and optionally roll and reattach to
a different location. Internal modules may also be magnetically coupled with an accessory such as a belt worn adjacent to the
stomach. Dispensers can ultimately exit naturally from the body on detecting a release condition or signal.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Adaptive Vision Modification with Automatic Adjustable Lenses
Methods and systems are provided relating to an adjustable lens device that can automatically restore visual acuity for
common visual defects such as myopia, presbyopia and astigmatism, as well as less common and difficult to correct
aberrations, including coma. It can also be tailored for vision enhancement in specialized activities that require magnification
or wide-angle vision and more advanced military applications. The technology can be used in eyeglasses, contact lenses,
and implantable intraocular lenses or head-mounted devices such as helmets. The device can be composed of several
components including:
• An image detector to detect images reflected from the retina
• An image analyzer to analyze the quality of the image
• A controller that can adjust the focus and sharpness, transmissivity, effective aperture, angle of orientation or other features of the lens
The device can be configured to detect neural or neuromuscular signals that indicate visual focal condition. It can also adjust
the lens based on analyzed neural activity in order to focus images on the retina.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Adjustable, Remotely Controllable, Orthopedic Implants
Technologies are provided for developing an adjustable orthopedic implant that can be remotely controlled by a surgeon
during or after surgery. The implant can contain multiple adjustable mechanisms. These adjustable mechanisms can be
a combination of one or more wires, pins, screws, plates, nails, rods, staples, clamps or other pieces that hold internal
orthopedic structures such as bones together. Each adjustable mechanism can have various configurations, such as:
• Ability to controllably move in at least three degrees of freedom utilizing at least one motor to lengthen, shorten, tighten, adjust curvature of, twist, or shear the internal orthopedic structures
• Ability to move in up to six degrees of freedom utilizing up to six motors
• Ability to be remotely actuatable in order to allow the surgeon to control certain movements of portions of the implant in multiple degrees of freedom
The implant can include:
• Sensors that detect strain, pressure, motion, stress, load, or position change of the internal orthopedic structures, and health and integrity of the orthopedic implant; sensors provide real-time feedback to enable the surgeon to facilitate adjustment of the implant
• Motors to move the adjustable mechanisms
• A controller that receives remote signals and controls actuation of the motors; the controller can receive signals originating from a human input or from an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound data input
• A transmitter to communicate sensed information and implant activity to an external computing device
• External or internal energy sources to power the motors
Implant sensors can include strain gauges, accelerometer piezoelectric films, Hall effect sensors, linear variable displacement
transducers (LVDT), differential variable reluctance transducers (DVRT), or reed switch sensors. Sensors can be configured to
detect osteogenic cell markers such as mesenchymal stem cells or osteoblasts.
These technologies can be utilized to develop:
• Implants for reconstructive or aesthetic surgery to repair damaged bone tissue
• Implants for internal fixation of fractured bone
• Arthrodesis implants
• Arthroplasty implants for treatment of damaged joints in cases of advanced inflammatory or degenerative arthritis
• Spinal implants for treatment of scoliosis
• Adjustable tibial trays for use in knee procedures
• Expandable and contractible nails in trauma procedures
• Support structures for vertebrae for treating back pain or other spinal pathologies
• Total or partial shoulder (or other joints such as the knee, hip, ankle or wrist) replacement prostheses
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Anti-inflammatory Compositions and Devices
Technologies are provided for developing therapeutic compositions that include multiple agents for modulating inflammatory
responses of the immune system. The therapeutic compositions can inhibit or modify various cellular activities of the immune
system, including activities of Toll-like receptors, Src family kinases, NF-kB proteins, and proteases or proteasomes. Various
combinations of agents can be selected based on a patient’s history (such as medical, surgical, family, or social history), signs
and symptoms, physical examination, diagnostic tests, etc. The therapeutic compositions can be included in pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers and administered by various means.
Technologies are also provided for developing implantable or external devices for delivery of the therapeutic compositions.
The delivery device can be capable of sending information to and receiving instructions from an external computing device.
The device can be configured with a variety of components, including:
• A reservoir to hold the composition
• A controllable outlet mechanism such as a micro-pump to dispense the composition
• A regulator to allow for timed release of the composition
• An inlet mechanism to receive the composition
• Sensors to detect the levels of the composition in the reservoir
• Sensors to detect the presence of biological molecules associated with the inflammatory condition
These technologies can be utilized in treating inflammatory conditions such as infections, autoimmune disorders, allergic
reactions, cancer, system inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), etc.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Arbitrary Peptide Synthesis
Peptides are often used as tools in functional assays and antibody production, particularly in drug discovery. Methods and
systems are provided for peptide synthesis using tRNAs charged with arbitrary amino acids. tRNAs charged with arbitrary
amino acids can be sequentially co-localized with a biological assembler; co-localizing can allow transfer of the amino
acids to the budding peptide on the assembler. The system for arbitrary peptide synthesis can include a wide variety of
configurations, features and options, including:
• A peptide synthesizer unit that provides and removes the charged tRNAs, biological assemblers or other peptide synthesis components
• A monitoring unit that measures the concentration of the various components
• A computing and controller unit that determines—as well as controls—the timing for adding or removing the various components
The system can be customized to include any of the aforementioned units or other additional units. The system can also
include a graphical user interface to receive input on the targeted peptides. This works to determine the temporal-spatial
parameters required to synthesize the targeted peptides and provide a graphical illustration of possible outcomes.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Auto-Fluorescent Imaging and Target Ablation
Technologies are provided for developing a device that can detect and ablate target cells or tissue in wounds or lesions
during a surgery or a procedure via fluorescent-based imaging. The device can be designed as a hand-held, intra-luminal,
tethered, or ingestible device and can include a variety of components, such as:
• An energy source that provides electromagnetic energy to excite a fluorescence response in target cells
• Sensors that detect the response
• Control circuitry that identifies the target area
• An electromagnetic, optical or X-ray energy source or a source of charged particles to ablate the target tissue
• A mobile source to maneuver and guide the device when the device is, for example, in a blood vessel
• A graphical user interface that receives input on the desired fluorescent response in the target and provides graphical illustration of the outcomes
• A database that provides information on the characteristics of the target, and the energy required to induce auto-
fluorescence in the target or ablate the target
Fluorescence can be an inherent response of the target cells or target cells can be labeled with fluorescent markers.
Frequencies of the electromagnetic energy required to induce fluorescent response or to ablate the target can be known in
the art and can be programmable or determined manually.
These technologies can be utilized to develop devices that are used to diagnose, treat, or prevent a variety of medical
conditions. These can include:
• Hand-held devices for detecting and ablating pathogens or cancerous cells found in surgical incisions, wounds, or lesions
• Devices attached to an endoscope or fiber optic cable for detecting and ablating pathogens or cancerous cells found in interior locations
• Intra-luminal devices that are small enough to fit in a blood vessel without obstructing blood flow, and used for detecting and ablating pathogens or cancerous cells found in blood streams
• Ingestible devices (the size of a pill or tablet) that cause photodynamic cell death of H. pylori in the GI tract
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Automatic Needle Insertion—Drawing Blood for Glucose Testing
Technologies are provided for an automatic needle insertion system that, under guidance of an imaging component, precisely
locates a target insertion region. The system can be composed of several components, including:
• A movable needle with a sharp distal end for insertion into tissue
• An imager such as an ultrasound, thermal, x-ray or other imager to distinguish the target region from other regions such as bone, muscle or vessel
• An actuator that moves the needle selectively in x, y or z axis to position the needle at the target region identified by the imager
• Containers to store fluids that are delivered to or drawn out of the target region
• Control circuitry, user-interface and sensors to detect:
• Operational parameters such as fluids being drawn
• Physical resistance of tissue
• Position of the needle
• Mounting structures such as straps or adhesives to temporarily secure the needle insertion system to the user
• Distraction components to audibly or visually distract the user during needle insertion
• Optionally, a robotic arm to which the movable needle is attached
On locating the target region via the imager, the control unit signals the actuator to position and insert the needle at the
target insertion point. The system can control the force and depth of insertion (via the control circuitry) and also avoid
previous insertion sites (via the imager) in order to alleviate discomfort associated with multiple punctures.
The system can be configured to apply a local anesthetic or an aseptic agent prior to needle insertion and pressure-close
the insertion point upon needle withdrawal to promote hemostasis. It can be configured as a portable or stationary device
that can be utilized to collect samples from arterial and venous access points; or to deliver medication to a target region with
great precision. For example, the system can be a portable device that diabetics can use for serum glucose monitoring. The
system avoids problems associated with jitters from the patient (or the operator) while minimizing discomfort.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Bone Cage Devices for Delivery of Biologically Active Molecules
Methods and systems are provided to develop an implantable drug delivery device that is configured as a bone cage. It is
made from natural or artificial bone, stem cells, and diatom skeletons. The bone cage can be constructed by microfabrication
techniques with a hollow interior that holds biologically active molecules that need to be delivered. A semi-permeable
membrane—developed from in-vitro cells or via genetic engineering that is functionally similar to natural membranous
barriers in the body—can be placed inside or outside the bone cage to allow selective diffusion of the biologically active
molecules. The bone cage is treated to prevent natural restructuring process or changes in structure due to bone resorption,
deposition or other physiologic effects. All of the components are non-immunogenic to minimize rejection or any associated
pathologies. The device can be used to treat or prevent metabolic and hormonal disease states such as those associated
with liver, pancreas, thyroid and adrenal glands. It can be configured as a blood brain barrier and can be used for controlled
release of vaccines.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Circulatory Monitoring Systems
Methods and systems are provided to detect, monitor and treat a variety of circulatory conditions, including blood clots. The
device can be composed of external or implantable sensors, embedded in a variety of items that typically make close contact
with or are worn by the individual (e.g., clothing and accessories, seats and wheelchairs). The sensors can be programmed
to detect various physiologic and pathologic signs and symptoms, including changes in blood pressure as a sign of vascular
occlusion or oxygen saturation as a sign of respiratory problems. The sensors can be coupled with a monitoring system that
can activate an external or implanted device to treat the underlying condition by electromagnetic radiation, drug dispensation
or other therapeutic modalities. The monitoring system can also be configured to communicate the detected pathology and
applied treatment to healthcare providers and patients. The technology can be implemented in airplanes, automobiles and
other vehicles to detect blood clots or other circulatory problems in patients before they become serious.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Circulatory Monitoring—Wearable Occlusions Monitoring Device
Technologies are provided for a wearable device that monitors vascular occlusions such as an embolus, a thrombus (such as a
deep vein thrombus) or other circulatory abnormalities. The non-invasive, real-time monitoring device can be worn on various
locations on the body.
The device can include several components for spectral detection and analysis of an occlusion, such as:
• Optical (thermal, ultrasonic or other) energy emitters for interrogating and eliciting an optical energy spectral profile from a blood vessel
• Sensors to detect emitted or reemitted energy from a blood vessel
• Data storage devices, including “spectral signature information” indicative of a vascular occlusion or pathology
• Controllers and spectral learning protocols that can compare, in real time, the detected optical energy spectral profile with the stored “spectral signature information” in order to determine the presence of an occlusion
• Circuitry to generate a response signal indicative of the presence and location of the occlusion, based on the controllers’ comparative analysis
The initial “spectral signature information” of an occlusive event can be obtained via in vivo or in vitro spectral analysis, where
changes in spectral properties of blood can be monitored and analyzed after inducing blood clot formation. The device can
provide user-specific “spectral signature information” through spectral learning and real-time spectral modeling. Subsequent
detected spectral profiles can be compared to the spectral model to update certain parameters associated with the model.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Combination of Medicine and Virtual Experience
Technologies are provided for developing a system that enables a healthcare professional, after diagnosing a patient, to query
a database for a prescription medication and an artificial sensory or virtual reality experience for the treatment of the patient.
The system can accept attributes of a patient, including:
• A mental enhancement goal
• A mental or physical diagnosis
• Medical history
• A proposed treatment
Based on the attributes the system can query:
• A medication database for a prescription medication
• An artificial sensory experience database for an appropriate virtual experience
The virtual experience can include the use of a virtual world, a social network, a game, or a tutorial on DVD. For example,
a patient with a neurodegenerative disorder can be prescribed a neurostimulant medication along with a virtual world
simulating the game of chess, both to be taken as per a prescribed schedule.
The effects of the combined medication and virtual reality experience therapy can be measured by self-assessment or
by comparing current and expected behavior; the therapy can be modified based on the measured effects. Physiologic
parameters such as pupil dilation, eye movement, heart rate, and behavior modifications such as reaction time or cognitive
ability can be monitored by instrumentation and software that is embedded in everyday devices. The results of the monitored
parameters can be recorded and reported to the healthcare professional, who can modify the medical therapy and/or modify
aspects of the virtual experience such as access to certain portions, or visual or sound aspects of the virtual experience. The
virtual experience can be modified to enhance efficacy or reduce side effects of the medication.
These technologies can be used to develop therapeutic virtual reality solutions for treatment of various medical conditions
such as Alzheimer’s; attention deficit disorder; depression; and eating, metabolic, or cardiovascular disorders. These
technologies can combine traditional psychoactive drugs with virtual reality to provide medical professionals with superior
life-changing solutions.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Combination of Medicine and Virtual Experience for Memory Modification
Technologies are provided for developing systems that can activate a traumatic memory to render it susceptible to removal,
subsequently erase it with a bioactive agent, and replace it with an alternate memory.
Once the traumatic experience information has been entered into the system by the user (such as a physician), the system
can then:
• Search a medication database for an appropriate memory-dampening agent (such as propranolol) to remove or minimize the severity of the traumatic memories
• Search an artificial sensory experience database for:
• An appropriate virtual experience that can activate the consolidated traumatic memory (e.g., a virtual experience of burning)
• An appropriate virtual experience that can provide an alternate memory to replace the original memory (e.g., a virtual experience of a fire being extinguished without incident)
The consolidated traumatic memory can be triggered by a sound, scent, photograph, video, or simulated experience.
The effects of the combined memory-dampening agent and virtual reality experience therapy can be measured by selfassessment or by comparing current and expected behavior, and the therapy can be modified based on the measured effects.
Physiologic response of the individual during the virtual reality experience can be measured and monitored via fMRI, fNIR,
or other techniques, and the response can be associated with a particular characteristic of the virtual reality experience. The
memory-dampening agent and/or the virtual reality experience can be altered based on the association. The virtual reality
experience can be scheduled to be delivered at the time of administration of the memory-dampening agent.
These technologies can be used to develop memory modification systems for treatment of a variety of psychiatric or
neurologic disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), paralysis, numbing anxiety, or fear-based conditions.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Computational Systems for Suggesting Modulators of CYP450
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized system that identifies an individual’s CYP450 family of enzymes
that affect the metabolism of drug therapies in the individual. The system recommends CYP450 modulators that can
minimize the adverse effects of the drug therapies by either inhibiting or enhancing the activity of the identified enzymes.
The system can include a user interface that captures detailed information about an individual such as age, gender, race,
medical and family history, or geographic or socio-demographic factors. The system can use the information to associate the
individual with a population or cohort group. The system can include a database that stores information about CYP450-family
enzyme variants that influence the metabolism of specific drug therapies. The database can associate the CYP450-family
enzyme variants with a population or cohort group. In addition, the database can include information on modulators for the
CYP450-family enzyme variants. Utilizing the database and information about the individual that is captured via the user
interface, the system can recommend a treatment option of a single or combination drug regimen that will avoid adverse
effects in the individual.
Environmental and other confounding factors that can affect treatment, such as exposure to sunlight, chemicals or diet,
can also be captured and subsequent mitigating strategies can be recommended, including increase in air intake and water
intake or changes in diet. The system can also identify an individual’s CYP450-family enzymes that metabolize environmental
toxins such as pesticides and recommend modulators to minimize or eliminate the effect of the toxins. The system can
help healthcare professionals provide optimal patient care with treatment regimens devoid of adverse events and drug
interactions.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Computed Epitope Immune Response Therapies
Technologies are provided for identifying attributes such as epitopes that are associated with specific pathogenic agents,
such as HIV, and to subsequently devise a therapeutic strategy that enhances the patient’s immune system, naturally or by
injecting antigenic agents that are cloned ex vivo. The therapeutic strategy can be an immune response based on knowledge
of current epitopes or an anticipated immune response based on predicting future epitopes determined by projecting future
mutated states of the pathogenic agent. The technology can be used to develop vaccines or other preventive or treatment
modalities for a variety of pathogens and viral diseases, particularly those that mutate continuously and at a greater speed
than the natural immune system can track and respond to, including HIV, Ebola, rabies, rubella, SARS, and influenza.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Customized Blood Vessel Sleeving and Stents
Vascular pathologies such as aneurysms are a major health risk that can be potentially fatal if they are not surgically repaired
in time. Stents and sleeves currently on the market are available in a limited number of generic or semi-custom fit sizes.
Methods and systems are provided to develop stents or sleeves that are custom-fit to each individual patient based on 3D
modeling of the patient’s anatomical blood vessel data. They potentially employ rapid prototyping methods with certain
indications for materials used, construction parameters, patient identification, and wear or deformation. Each stent or sleeve
can also have active components with sensors that provide important physiological or pathological information and respond
automatically (or manually) to treat the sensed underlying condition. For example, the stent or sleeve can contain an internal
contrast agent or a deformation or wear indicator to detect pathology and can subsequently collapse, expand, shrink or be
coated with a time-released drug.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Devices and Compositions for Controlling pH in Pulmonary Tissues
Technologies are provided for developing devices that sense physiological conditions of an individual (such as pH of exhaled
breath, humidity of exhalant, temperature, breathing rate, or peak rate of exhalation) and/or monitor or receive data on
environmental conditions (such as smog, forest fires, pollen count, or weather conditions) that can affect the individual, and
subsequently recommend or administer pharmaceutical compositions configured to contact pulmonary tissue in order to
prevent or mitigate a pulmonary infection. Pharmaceutical compositions can include agents that modify pH, antiviral agents,
antibacterial agents, antihistamines, or other pharmaceutical agents. The device can be part of a mask worn over the mouth,
can be part of a handheld device, or can be miniaturized and placed in the respiratory tract.
The device can either sense environmental conditions or receive information on environmental conditions from agencies that
routinely monitor and report these conditions. Environmental conditions can be based on current or future locations of the
individual (by using GPS and itinerary of the individual’s activities).
Upon sensing physiological conditions and/or sensing or receiving environmental conditions, the device can alert the
individual or a caregiver, and recommend or administer pharmaceutical compositions.
An aerosol generator can be used to administer a pharmaceutical composition that includes a membrane that is broken based
on sensed pH of the pulmonary tissue and releases a charged ion configured to achieve a selected pH of the pulmonary
tissue.
A pharmaceutical composition for treating pulmonary infections can be:
• A composition of multiple pharmaceutical agents in different distinct particle sizes to make contact with different levels of pulmonary tissue
• Administered as two or more distinct and non-overlapping particle sizes with potentially different pH ranges that target different areas in the respiratory tract and different levels of pulmonary tissue
• A buffering agent, a basic agent, or an acidic agent
• In the form of liquid, dry powder, or liposome
• Administered via an inhaler, a nebulizer, or other devices that generate aerosolized particles
• Delivered to multiple individuals in an enclosed space as fine mist through heating, ventilation, or air conditioning systems
These technologies can be used to treat or prevent pulmonary conditions such as infections or allergies in a person, or can
be used to prevent the spread of infections, such as viral infections, in private or public environments, including hospitals,
schools, or public transportation.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Devices for Controllably Reducing Target Components that Modulate Disease
Technologies are provided for developing an implantable or external device that modulates the physiological effect of target
components that modulate disease by achieving a target value of detected target components in the blood of a patient. The
target components can be inflammatory mediators, cancer cells, infected cells, or infectious agents.
The device can be an intracorporeal device inserted into a blood vessel or an extracorporeal device to withdraw, process, and
return processed blood back into the body. In the case of the extracorporeal device, real-time cytokine levels in the blood can
be withdrawn externally for processing.
The device can include:
• Sensors (such as bio, chemical, physical, or optical sensors) to detect the presence of target components that modulate disease in a patient’s blood. Sensors can also be configured to detect temperature, pathogen levels, or other vital signs
• A treatment chamber to provide reactive components (such as denaturing agents, degradative agents, binding agents, and/or energy sources) to decrease the activity or control the levels of the target components
• A controller to manage the flow of blood through the treatment chamber and achieve target values of the mediators by communicating with the sensors in order to adjust the interaction between the reactive components and the target components
Technologies are also provided for developing an implantable device (configured to fit in a lumen and allow fluid flow) that
actively or passively removes target components (such as inflammatory mediators, cancer cells, infected cells, or infectious
agents) from the circulatory or lymphatic systems. The device can be configured for:
• Passive removal using two reservoirs: one that includes bi-functional tags that selectively bind to target components in the fluid and another with reactive components that have an affinity for and can sequester the bi-functional tags, which are bound to the target components
• Active removal with a sensor that detects target components and a controller that opens or closes a flow barrier in response to the sensors; the device can include reactive components that interact directly with the target components to modulate their physiological effect
The device can be utilized to treat cancer, infectious diseases, or inflammatory diseases. The device can be utilized to treat
a variety of acute and chronic inflammatory-mediated conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD, rhinitis, sinusitis, allergies, ARDS,
anaphylaxis, allograft rejection, graft versus host disease, psoriatic or rheumatoid arthritis, chemical or biological agent
exposure, or infections).
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Devices for Patterning on Skin and Hair Removal from Skin
Technologies are provided for developing hair removal devices and skin-patterning or tattoo-forming devices that utilize
electromagnetic energy. Such devices can be used in aesthetic and cosmetic, medical or other settings.
The hair removal device can be composed of several components, including:
• Sensors, such as proximity or motion sensors
• A light source such as a laser or array of lasers, which can emit light of a wavelength band that is significantly absorbed by hair
• A lens that can form a highly convergent light with a narrow, spatially limited beam waist
• Control circuitry
Hair removal can include several steps. First, the device is positioned adjacent to the skin. Once the distance from the skin
and the presence of a hair shaft is detected, the light source is activated to deliver a beam of highly convergent light, with
sufficient intensity, speed and duration to cause mechanical failure of the hair shaft. The device can take into account the
speed of its movement across the skin.
The skin-patterning system can also be composed of a variety of components, including:
• A light source such as a laser that can emit light of a defined wavelength band
• A device that delivers a photo-responsive material to the skin
• A programmable memory to store a desired pattern that represents a plurality of skin regions to which light is to be directed
• A positioning system with deflectors to adjust the position of the light source
• Optical components to focus the light at a specified depth within the skin
• A controller that manages the positioning system to guide the light onto a plurality of skin locations based on the pattern stored in the memory
Several steps can be used in creating tattoos or patterns on the skin. A photo-responsive material is applied, topically or by
injection, to the skin. Upon exposure to light, this material undergoes a reversible or irreversible transformation, such as from
an active to an inactive state or from a colorless to a colored form (or vice versa). The skin pattern can also change from
being visible to invisible, depending on the wavelength of light the photo-responsive material is exposed to.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Diagnosis via Spider Charts Representing Patient Characteristics
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized diagnostic system that provides a healthcare provider output in
the form of a spider chart. Each spider chart can have multiple radial axes with each axis representing a quantifiable patient
parameter. These parameters can include temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, current medications, patient history, age,
gender, laboratory results or other patient characteristics. The system can make a diagnosis by comparing a patient’s spider
chart to one associated with a specific disease; it can subsequently provide treatment options. The system can be composed
of a graphical user interface with interactive options to enter patient parameters manually (with drop down menus or text
boxes), or the system can automatically receive parameter data from sensors, monitors, and other devices. The resulting
spider chart can be viewed on any device, including mobile devices. A patient’s progress with therapy and prognosis can also
be determined by comparing the patient’s spider chart over time. This system can help healthcare professionals provide the
best level of patient care with the most appropriate diagnosis and treatment options.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Diagnostic Assistance Systems
Methods and systems are offered that can provide healthcare professionals—and others in the healthcare industry—with
differential diagnosis and treatment options based on individual parameters entered for each patient, including history,
physical, and lab or other diagnostic parameters. The system utilizes statistical analysis and algorithms to generate a more
uniform and consistent output for diagnosis and treatment of disease states. This works to minimize malpractice, improve
patient outcomes and ultimately reduce the overall healthcare expenditure.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Diagnostic Imaging Kiosk
Technologies are provided for developing a diagnostic imaging system that can be remotely operated by a healthcare
professional or locally by an untrained user. The system can be configured as a stationary (e.g., a kiosk) or a portable
radiographic or other diagnostic device that can help detect and diagnose the underlying pathology. The system can
be utilized in healthcare facilities as well as in public places such as gas stations, pharmacies, schools, gymnasiums, and
stadiums.
The system can include an emission module that can be locally or remotely activated upon user certification; and can
subsequently emit ionizing radiation such as X-rays, visible light, or other forms of energy for imaging. The system can also
include security features, whereby the amount of emitted radiation and a local user’s usage history is monitored and tracked,
and the emission module is deactivated if radiation exposure exceeds a threshold amount.
The system can include a variety of other features, such as:
• Ability to detect the location of the target body part relative to the emission module
• Operational instructions or guidance for the local user to enable the user to position the target body partand activate the emission module
• A wearable article such as a vest or helmet to shield the local user’s body from ionizing radiation
• A wearable item such as braces to help position the target body part for imaging
• Sensors on the wearable item to detect energy from the emission module and capture the resulting image
• Displays to present images or video and speakers to present audio data
• Ability to present real-time data input by remote user
• Cameras, hand-held scanners, card readers, microphones, or other devices for data entry
• Cameras to facilitate video chat between the local and remote users
• A hand-held emission module
• Ability for the remote user to enable, disable, or reset the system
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Dispensing of Consumable Compositions via Programmable Cups
Patient non-compliance with medication regimens continues to affect treatment outcomes and ultimately affects a patient’s
quality of life. Methods and systems are provided relating to beverage containers that can be configured to dispense a
nutraceutical or a pharmaceutical composition in a beverage. The dispensing system can include components such as a
sensor, a user-interface, a dispenser, a sterilizer, a processor and a communication device. The dosing and frequency details
can be manually entered or electronically transmitted to assure the proper dosing regimen. The system can be configured
to monitor ingestion of the composition and to report compliance to the patient’s physician or insurance company. It can
also provide audio or visual notifications of an upcoming dose or electronically send reminders to the patient to take their
medication. Finally, the system can prevent other devices from functioning if the user has not ingested the required dose (e.g.
prevent the user’s automobile from starting, prevent computer logon, prevent outgoing cell phone usage, prevent a gaming
system from powering on, disable a credit card and/or prevent access to a banking system).
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Dispensable Contouring Hospital Beds
Methods and systems are provided to develop displaceable contouring beds, wheelchairs, operating tables or other devices
that are used to prevent skin and soft tissue damage—including pressure ulcers—in patients who are immobile or have
limited mobility for an extended period of time. The beds can include surfaces with a number of individual contouring units
that are displaceable at multiple axes. Each contouring unit may come with pressure sensors. They move accordingly—and
independent of one another—to reduce pressure points and apply equal pressure to different parts of the body. There are a
variety of other configurations for individual contouring units and the device as a whole. This technology can also be utilized
in developing other medically related external supporting hardware such as braces, casts, tractions and other treatment or
diagnostic modalities that require the patient to be steady and immobile for an extended period of time, including CT scans,
PET scans and MRIs.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Distortion-Compensated Imaging
Technologies are provided for developing a distortion compensator that can limit or reduce image distortions in order to
create sharper images in various medical imaging modalities, such as ultrasound, MRI, CT, or PET scan. The device can predict
the type of image distortion due to an obstruction or distorting feature (e.g., spinal plates, bone pins, pacemakers and
defibrillators, hemoglobin) and compensate for the image distortion. The device can include a component that uses imaging
to determine the relative orientation, location, angle, surface characteristics, etc., of the distorting feature. This information
can be used to predict the image distortion, which can be minimized using a variety of techniques, such as:
• Computational techniques
• Fourier transform to filter or subtract the distortion
• Reshaping, modifying, or redirecting electromagnetic, acoustic, or other rays used for imaging in order to limit radiation applied to the distorting feature
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Distributed Systems for Postural Warning and Advisory
Technologies are provided for developing a system that monitors, warns and recommends alternative positions or postures to
one or more users in a group who are operating or are exposed to one or more devices in order to prevent injury and improve
the postural health of the users.
The system can include a status determination unit that utilizes imaging, radiofrequency, electromagnetic, acoustic or edge
detection, or other types of sensors to obtain physical status information about the users and devices; such information can
include the users’ and devices’ position, orientation, location and conformation.
The physical status information can be communicated to an advisory unit that runs algorithms to generate advisory
information. Advisory information can also take into account information regarding duration of use or schedules of operation
of the devices by the users. Advisory information can be output to the user in a variety of forms, including light, audio, video,
vibration, electromagnetic, textual or media.
These technologies can be utilized to develop many different configurations of distributed postural warning and advisory
systems for use in various healthcare facilities, in settings where operators use multiple devices such as in factories and on
industrial sites, or in settings that involve multiple displays and users, such as in conference rooms, auditoriums and school
gymnasiums.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Embedded Diagnostic Modules
Technologies are provided for gathering health status information about a user based on the user’s interaction with an
occupational or a leisure device, such as a video game or work-related software that contains or interacts with diagnostic
modules. User device interaction data can include:
• Audio signals such as voice tremor
• Visual signals such as pupil constriction
• Performance, physical or motor signals such as hand grip or keystroke
The device can be coupled to local or remote clinical analysis modules that analyze the collected data to detect any
irregularities, improvements or worsening of health, or to perform specific cardiovascular, neurologic, psychiatric or other
tests. The device can notify the user or third parties such as healthcare professionals of the findings.
The user’s health-related data and other features such as facial patterns, intonation of speech, hairstyles, facial expressions
or gestures can be correlated with epidemiological and statistical data to determine socio-demographic characteristics of the
user, including age, gender and ethnicity.
These technologies can be used to perform low profile monitoring and testing of patients with neurologic and psychiatric
disorders, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s, depression, drug overdose or brain injury. These technologies can also be used
in behavioral analysis, marketing, polling studies or market research to observe, for example, a user’s physiologic reaction to a
message or an advertisement.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Ex Vivo Activation of Final Dosage Forms
Technologies are provided for final dosage forms (e.g., tablets or capsules) that need to be exposed ex vivo (prior to
administration) to a stimulus in order for medication within the dosage forms to become available for release in vivo.
Alternately, dosage forms may be exposed ex vivo to a stimulus in order for medication within the dosage forms to become
unavailable for release in vivo.
A dosage form can have a default bioavailability characteristic (e.g., dosage, release kinetics, or release rates) for in vivo
release that can be altered by exposing the dosage form to a stimulus prior to administration. The intensity, duration, or
waveform of the stimulus can determine the bioavailability characteristics after ex vivo activation.
The dosage form can have an outer layer and a chamber for holding medication. The dosage form can include a release
element (e.g., a gel, hydrogel, azopolymer membrane, gold foil, liposome, wax, polyanhydrides, etc.) that is configured
to encapsulate or obstruct an aperture in the chamber. Exposure to a stimulus (such as light, electric, chemical, thermal,
acoustic, ultrasonic, magnetic, electromagnetic, or radio wave) ex vivo leads to bursting, puncture, permeation, dissolution,
or disintegration of the release element, thereby allowing medication in the chamber to become available for release via the
outer layer. The outer layer can be soluble, permeable, or disintegrable in vivo to enable release of the medication in vivo.
The dosage form can have a variety of additional features or configurations, including:
• An indicator with elements that show an optically, electronically, or ultrasonically detectable change to confirm exposure of the release element to the stimulus
• Two chambers with different medications (or different dosages of the same medication); the release elements of the respective chambers can be collectively or selectively exposed to the stimulus to allow medication from one or both chambers to be available for release
• Particles or polymeric materials (e.g., hydrogels, microspheres, or nanoparticles) that bind to the medication and can be modified to release the medication following exposure to the stimulus
Instructions on how to expose the dosage form to the stimulus source ex vivo can be provided along with the dosage form.
These technologies can be used to develop tablets, capsules, or other types of final dosage forms that are ineffective in the
manufactured state but can be activated and become effective for administration upon exposure to light or other stimuli.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Frozen Particle Compositions for Surface Abrasions and Delivery
Technologies are provided for developing therapeutic compositions that include frozen particles (with <1 cm dimensions) that
rupture cells or abrade the surface of the tissue to deliver therapeutic agents to the tissue. The therapeutic compositions can
be administered by topical, oral, or mucosal routes, and propelled, ejected, or accelerated at a predetermined pressure and
velocity towards the tissue to enable penetration of the frozen particles to a predetermined depth.
Frozen particles can have a variety of configurations:
• They can be made of various forms of frozen hydrogen oxide (e.g., amorphous frozen water, low- or high-density amorphous ice, clathrate ice, hyper-quenched glassy water, Ice Ic, Ice Ih, Ice II, Ice III, Ice IV), helium, neon, krypton, argon, xenon, nitrogen, chlorine, bromine, oxygen, air, or carbon dioxide
• They can include additives of abrasive or reinforcement agents (such as fiberglass) that can be added during the formation process to increase the strength and reduce the deformation of the frozen particles
• They can be configured as micro-needles or other instruments to extract or collect cells from the abraded tissue surface
• They can include explosive materials such as carbon dioxide, nitroglycerine, or reactive metals
Technologies are also provided to develop a computerized system that, for example:
• Receives input on the physical attributes of a patient, such as the patient’s medical, social, or family history, and physical examination or other findings
• Communicates with a database to determine the frozen particle therapeutic composition treatment regimen by comparing the patient’s attributes to that of other patients with similar attributes
• Provides a graphical illustration showing the outcomes of the treatment regimen
These technologies can be used for delivery of therapeutic agents for a variety of treatments or procedures including
vaccination; tumor ablation; tissue or wound cleaning, debridement, or repair; chemotherapy; or microdermabrasion.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Gene Analysis to Determine Vaccines for Cancer Treatment
Technologies are provided for developing mutated or altered genetic material that can be used as a vaccine to generate an
immune response for the treatment or prevention of cancer or prevention of the spread of cancer in the body. The system
aligns an amino acid sequence of a cancerous or diseased polypeptide with an amino acid sequence of a healthy polypeptide,
and analyzes the aligned sequences to determine sub-sequences (within the diseased sequence) in which alterations have
occurred. Each sub-sequence can possess more than one alteration that changes the characteristic of the polypeptide, such
as its hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, acidity, alkalinity or polarity. Alterations can include:
• Amino acid substitution, in which one amino acid is replaced by another
• Amino acid insertion, in which an additional amino acid is added to the sequence
• Other alterations that change the physical or chemical properties of the amino acid.
The system can perform statistical analysis and pattern recognition on multiple samples of diseased sequences in order
to identify and confirm the amino acid sub-sequences that can be specifically linked to a particular cancer. The identified
sub-sequences can be potentially more effective and specific toward a certain cancer. The system can be utilized to develop
highly individualized vaccines for combating cancer or other genetically altered diseases.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Hair Analysis to Estimate Timing of Toxic Substance Ingestion
Technologies are provided for analyzing hair samples for the presence and the time of absorption of artificial markers, such as
heavy metals, toxins, radioactive elements or legal and illegal drugs. An artificial marker’s distance from the root can be used
to estimate the timing of its ingestion. The timing can be correlated with factors that affect the rate of hair growth such as a
person’s age, gender, race and hair type. The analysis can occur while the hair is still in the follicle or when it is uprooted from
the subject.
The system can include sensors that can slide along the hair sample and measure a variety of parameters that are indicative
of the presence of single or multiple artificial markers. These parameters include:
• Concentration
• Radioactivity
• Luminescence
• Magnetic response
• Electrical resistance and capacitance
• Reactivity with an analyte
Via a user interface, the system can plot these parameters against the distance from the hair root to show a detectable
peak, spike or trends that help estimate the time of ingestion. Optical properties of the sample or multiple samples can be
measured for additional information and to reduce errors or enhance signal-to-noise ratios. The system can also analyze other
types of samples such as nails, horns and claws.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Health Services Planning and Matching
Technologies are provided for developing an interactive, web-based system that provides clinicians, patients or potential
patients with diagnostic and treatment options, based on the user’s history, medical diagnosis and/or health goal. Treatment
options for a user can be presented in a decision tree format. In addition the system can provide information on predicted
outcomes or side effects of a treatment option. The user can draw on this information to select a treatment path. The system
can also match a user with a healthcare provider that meets the user’s preferences. User preferences can include a provider’s
location, availability, office visit rates, and whether the user’s health insurance is accepted. The system can utilize a web
program that searches databases to find and solicit healthcare providers who match the user’s preferences. The system can
give the providers an option to bid in an auction to supply services to the user.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Health-Related Signaling via Wearable Items
Technologies are provided for developing a device that can be worn by a patient undergoing care in a healthcare facility, and
can monitor and report diagnostic and other medical data to the patient or a healthcare provider. The wearable device can be
in the form of a piece of clothing or accessory such as a wristband, an earpiece or a gown.
The device can receive data from sensors that are:
• Located on the item itself
• Implanted in the patient
• Located near the patient (e.g., on the patient’s skin)
The device can be configured to send and receive wireless signals. The device can compare sensor data over time and make
determinations to transmit notifications to the healthcare provider.
The device can include a movement detector such as an accelerometer or proximity sensor to determine the patient’s
position, and can transmit information about the patient’s position to the healthcare provider.
The device can be configured to transmit a variety of information, including:
• Vital signs such as temperature
• Swelling
• Pain
• Blood clot formation
The device can have a touch-screen configured to display health-related information obtained from the sensors, or display
other information such as the location of a healthcare provider or status of prescriptions.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Image-Guided Airway Intubation
Technologies are provided for an intubation device for insertion in an airway passage, that includes not only a tube and stylet
to aid the insertion or removal of the tube, but also imaging devices to facilitate safe insertion or navigation of the tube and
to capture images of anatomical structures located near the airway passage. The tube and stylet can be made of shapetransforming material, such as shape memory alloys or electro-active polymers, and configured for easy insertion and removal
on activation by the application of voltage, heat or magnetic force.
The imaging device can include several components, such as:
• Image acquisition components located inside, outside, at either end, or at any part of the tube and/or the stylet along with a source of illumination
• Image transmission components located on the intubation device and used to transmit images, wirelessly or with fiber optics, from the acquisition components to a visual display
• A visual display mounted on the intubation device or located externally
Imaging can also be used to detect the elemental composition, for example, of calcium, sodium, potassium, iron, or iodine in a
tissue.
The intubation device can include other components or features, such as:
• Sensors such as acoustic, oxygen, CO2, temperature, pressure, or other sensors to capture pertinent data and information
• The stylet configured to supply drugs or medications such as pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals to the airway passage
• Actuating cuffs or sleeves circumferentially disposed on the tube and configured to engage with a luminal wall of a trachea upon inflation
Technologies are provided for endotracheal tubes or other intubation devices used for airway management and mechanical
ventilation, and for a variety of medical and surgical procedures such as general anesthesia, endoscopy, tracheotomy, and
cricothyroidotomy.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Image-Guided Surgery with Dynamic Image Reconstruction
Technologies are provided for developing real-time 3D images of various organs and body parts during a procedure, such
as surgery, from 3D images captured prior to the surgery. Fiducials included in the original 3D image can be processed in
the real-time image to generate transform coefficients and model changes in the image. A transform coefficient or other
mathematical transformation (such as an affine or a conformal transformation) can be applied to the original 3D image to
create a real-time 3D image.
Location of anatomical structures (such as blood vessels) or implants can be used as fiducials. Alternatively, markers such as
ultrasound, MRI, CT scan, or X-ray signature beads can be used as fiducials. The fiducial location markers can be introduced
into the region of interest, and can be uniformly or non-uniformly distributed in the region or can outline the region. Contrast
agents (such as radio-opaque material) can be used to enhance anatomical or pathological structure locations, such as the
brain or a tumor.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Imaging of Body Temperatures
Technologies are provided for developing a radiant kinetic energy imager that can detect heat emitted by a patient’s body
and, based on the detected information, adjust the position of the patient, the temperature of the room, or another aspect
related to the patient, and/or provide a notification to the patient or a health care provider.
The imager can be used to detect changes in blood circulation and create a thermal map of the various parts of the body
that can be displayed via an interface to the patient or the healthcare provider. The imager can transmit signals to positioning
mechanisms in hospital beds or chairs to automatically adjust or shift the patient’s position in order to improve blood
circulation and reduce the tendency for bedsores.
These technologies can be used in hospitals and clinics to monitor the conditions of patients. These technologies can also be
used to cost-effectively and more easily screen livestock for illnesses and other problems.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Imaging via Blood Vessels
Technologies are provided for capturing an intravascular image (radial or axial, still or video) via a light transducer (e.g.,
camera) and transmitting the image outside the body.
A target such as an intravascular lesion can be detected (e.g., ultrasonically), and a vascular probe can be used to position the
light transducer to capture images in the vicinity of the target. The images can be transmitted optically (or via an antenna)
out of the body to an external display unit.
To improve imaging quality, the blood in the visual field can be removed by suction, by selectively inflating or deflating a
balloon, or by other techniques. Blood flow may be only partially occluded while imaging. A light-conducting tool, such as
an optical fiber, can be used to transmit light between the light transducer and the target. Multiple images can be combined
to create a composite image. Real-time imaging could be performed from the point of arterial entry and used to guide the
vascular probe to the target location.
Technologies are also provided for projecting energy into tissue to ablate the target lesion or other tissue, and for using the
light transducer to capture a reflected portion of the energy not absorbed by the tissue for imaging purposes. The source that
projects energy could be external to the body or the entire system could be located inside the blood vessel.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Implanted Agent Delivery Devices and Sensors
Technologies are provided for developing an implantable delivery device that administers agents in response to signals
received from implanted sensors.
Implanted sensors can detect the presence and concentration of agents, and communicate with the agent delivery device
in order to enable the delivery device to maintain a certain concentration of required agents within the individual. Agents
can include, but are not limited to, pharmaceuticals, hormones, cytokines or nitric oxide donors. A control unit can regulate
the activities of the sensors, such as the exact times when a specific sensor should detect the presence or concentration of
a specific analyte. Sensors can include multiple detectors that may be enclosed in a sacrificial layer of gold foil or a shape
memory polymer that can be selectively removed to expose certain detectors.
The agent delivery device can have various configurations including a control unit and a motor. Examples of such motors
include a stepper, an osmotic or piezoelectric linear motor. The motor can facilitate movement of a movable member in the
device housing that releases the stored agent via an exit port. The device can be used to deliver consistent and localized
pharmaceuticals or other agents internally for treatment of a variety of medical conditions.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Infection Fighting and Monitoring Shunts and Catheters
Technologies are provided for developing shunts and catheters that actively detect, treat, and/or prevent infections.
An implantable shunt (e.g., a cerebrospinal shunt that has a fluid flow passageway to transport cerebrospinal fluids) can be configured with
energy emitters that emit electromagnetic, electric, acoustic, or thermal energy at a dose sufficient to:
• Modulate the biological activity of an infectious agent
• Inhibit biofilm formation
• Provide sterilizing ability within the cerebrospinal fluid that is received in the fluid flow passageway
The energy emitters can be part of the implantable device and can be configured:
• To deliver an illumination or energy-emitting pattern that varies spatially or temporally
• To be connected to the interior or exterior of the fluid flow passageway by means of waveguides
• As optical energy emitters that emit infrared, visible, or UV energy, or emit pulsed optical energy to elicit the formation of sound waves or fluorescence
• To provide voltage across a portion of cells
• As laser diodes, LEDs, electrodes, or other types of energy emitters
The implantable shunt can include sensors that detect emitted and reemitted energy as well as determine characteristics such as:
• Spectral characteristics of cerebrospinal fluid received within the fluid flow passageway
• Spectroscopic characteristics of tissue proximate to the fluid flow passageway
• Physiological characteristics of the subject
The implantable shunt can include a controller that:
• Controls the waveform characteristics or other parameters associated with the delivery of the energy stimulus
• Contains a database that provides information on infection indication parameter, cerebrospinal fluid spectral information, or other parameters
• Can be configured to compare the data obtained by the sensors to the data stored in the database and can subsequently provide a response (such as initiating a treatment protocol) based on the results of that comparison
The implantable shunts can be coated with photoactive agents that emit UV light in the presence of an electrical stimulus or they can be
coated with energy-activated or chemically-activated, self-cleaning material. The fluid flow passageways can include reflective or selfcleaning coatings or other coatings such as ZnO nanorods that can be manipulated by UV light to switch from a hydrophobic state to a
hydrophilic state. The shunt can also be configured to deliver sterilizing stimulus to the outer portion of the shunt.
Catheters can be configured to:
• Monitor and inhibit biofilm formation
• Have components that are actively controllable between transmissive & reflective states
• Have components that are actively controllable between two or more wettability states
• Have an actively controllable therapeutic agent delivery component
• Have UV-energy emitting coatings
• Have self-cleaning surfaces
• Monitor biofilm formation via biofilm spectral information configured as a data structure
• Have acoustically actuatable waveguide components for delivering a sterilizing stimulus to a region proximate to a surface of the catheter
• Have light removable coatings based on a sensed condition
• Release ultraviolet-energy-absorbing agents
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Internal Devices Controlling the Operation of Ingestible Devices
Technologies are provided for developing an internal device that’s introduced inside the body surgically, by ingestion or other
methods, in order to control an ingestible device that resides in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and delivers treatments.
The internal device can be configured to send control commands wirelessly to the ingestible device to instruct the ingestible
device to perform various treatment operations, such as:
• Deliver medication
• Emit light or heat
• Vibrate
• Take images
• Degrade its surface
Control commands provided by the internal device can be determined based on commands provided by a clinician using
an external device, sensor data sent by the ingestible device, data acquired by sensors associated with the internal device,
positional information of the ingestible device, or passage of a time interval.
The internal device can also receive information from the ingestible device about delivery confirmation and the remaining
level of the medication or treatment. Both devices can include several components, including:
• Sensors to measure physiological conditions such as heart rate, blood pressure or blood sugar levels
• Chambers that store medication; the internal device can have a reserve chamber for medication if the ingestible device runs
out
• Actuators to impart motion to the device, release medication and collect tissue if necessary
• A control unit that receives data from sensors and communicates with actuators and other devices
The system can be utilized to manage and optimize adherence of patients to treatment; or for highly individualized therapies
in which only a portion of a dose is required, such as in the treatment of diabetes, Parkinson’s disease or epilepsy; or where it
is important not to miss any dose, such as in the treatment of diseases like HIV.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Intrusion-Resistant, Secure, Implantable Medical Devices
Technologies are provided for implantable devices configured to recognize a threat (such as malware) in a received
communication (from an external source) and subsequently implement a threat mitigation strategy.
The implantable device may include a threat assessment module (with an optional lookup table) to detect and assess threat
characteristics of the received communication, including:
• Failure to receive expected communication
• An overwhelming communication
• Communication from a non-trusted source
• Indication of spyware, malware, data corruption, system shutdown, service disruption, information theft, etc.
The device may also include a mitigation module to implement threat resolution measures or countermeasures (selected from
a lookup table), such as an encryption change, change in communication frequency, handshake, signature, authentication,
verification, or other measures.
These technologies can be applied to implantable devices that:
• Monitor brain systems
• Provide deep brain, cortical, vagus nerve, or spinal cord stimulation
• Monitor physiologic parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, or blood chemistry
• Monitor concentrations of and deliver drugs
• Provide other therapies (such as a pacemaker)
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Ionizing Radiation Responsive Compositions and Systems
Technologies are provided for developing radiation-activated compositions for controlled release and delivery of bioactive
agents for treatment of cancer or other diseases. Agents can include analgesics, anti-infectives, antineoplastics, nutraceuticals, or
cardiovascular, diagnostic, dermatologic, gastrointestinal, gynecologic, hematologic, immunologic, neurologic, or urologic agents.
Patients can be administered a composition made of:
• A luminescent material that is activated by ionizing radiation such as X-ray or UV that causes it to emit optical energy,
• A photosensitive material that responds to the optical energy by releasing a biologically active material, and
• A biologically active material that can provide the necessary treatment.
The biologically active material can be released via a variety of techniques, including:
• The photosensitive material can have a substrate to which the biologically active material is attached and from which it is released upon exposure to optical energy
• The photosensitive material can be in the form of a matrix that expands or contracts upon exposure to optical energy and releases the enclosed biologically active material
• The photosensitive material can be in the form of a layer that ruptures and releases the enclosed biologically active material upon exposure to optical energy
• The hydrophobicity or diffusion characteristics of the photosensitive material can be changed on exposure to optical energy thereby affecting the diffusion rate of the enclosed biologically active material
• The photosensitive material can change in shape on exposure to optical energy and release the biologically active material
• The photosensitive material can photodegrade on exposure to optical energy and release the biologically active material
Alternatively, the composition can be made of:
• A luminescent material, and
• A photosensitive material that:
• Generates cytotoxic or other therapeutic agents in the presence of optical energy, or
• Contains photoisomerizable or photolabile substances whose biological activity is altered in the presence of optical energy.
The composition can include more than one pair of luminescent and photosensitive materials, with each pair responsive to a
particular wavelength of optical energy.
The composition can include optically inhibiting material that prevents optical energy generated by sources other than the
luminescent material from coupling with the photosensitive material. In order to ensure that the correct amount of ionizing radiation
is delivered to the target region, a control unit can be used to operate the radiation emitter based on information from detectors
that detect the forward-scattered radiation from the target region.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Lumen-Traveling Devices
Methods and systems are provided relating to a self-propelling intra-lumen device that can travel to a target site within the
body and diagnose and treat numerous medical conditions. The device can be used to treat conditions in the cardiovascular,
lymphatic, glandular, digestive, respiratory, biliary, reproductive, nasal and other lumen-containing systems. The device can
come with various sensors configured to detect intra-luminal pathologies such as abnormalities in pressure, temperature,
fluid flow, chemicals or cells of interest. It can be configured to deliver a substance or deliver electromagnetic stimulus based
on sensed conditions. Other components of the device can include a circuitry and a propelling mechanism that controls the
movement of the device. Technologies are also provided relating to implantable devices for perfusion management with a
reservoir connected to an intravascular catheter to hold and deliver a target material.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Maintaining Physiological Levels of Steroid Hormones
Technologies are provided for developing an individualized treatment regimen for hormone replacement therapy, which
includes a method, a system, and a kit with necessary dosages of steroid hormones or their metabolites, and instructions for
administering the hormone replacement compositions. The goal is to maintain a patient’s pre-menopausal (normal) levels of
hormones by measuring pre-menopausal hormone levels in the patient and supplementing current hormone levels.
Pre-menopausal hormone levels can be determined by reviewing the patient’s history that can reflect cyclic or age-related
hormonal changes. Once the present hormonal levels are measured, a treatment regimen can be designed by comparing the
patient’s pre-menopausal hormone levels with current hormone levels. The patient’s hormone levels can be monitored during
treatment and the treatment regimen can be adjusted to maintain the current hormone levels at the patient’s pre-menopausal
hormone levels. A computerized system can be used to determine and adjust the treatment regimen.
Additional information such as the patient’s medical, family (genetic predisposition), and social history; sociodemographics
(e.g., population data); and diagnostic findings can be considered in the analysis of the treatment regimen. Diagnostic data
can be based on serum levels of:
• Inflammation-related compounds
• Lipid-related compounds
• Disease-related markers for cancer; bone loss; neurologic, metabolic, cardiovascular, or other diseases
Technologies are also provided for developing a personalized cardiovascular treatment regimen, which involves providing the
patient with an estrogen receptor modulator that is based on the patient’s genetic APOE allelic profile and his/her current
and pre-disease hormone levels.
Technologies are also provided for developing a personalized treatment regimen for bone loss disease or bone loss disorder
that involves providing the patient with a follicle-stimulating hormone modulator. The modulator reduces bioactivity or
bioavailability of follicle-stimulating hormone in the patient and approximates the level of bioactive or bioavailable folliclestimulating hormone according to a target cyclic physiological pre-disease effective level of the patient.
These technologies can be utilized to develop personalized treatment regimens for a variety of disease states, including
hormonal, metabolic, cardiovascular, bone loss, or neurologic conditions.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Malaria Detection and Treatment via Hemozoin Detection and Disruption
Technologies are provided for easy-to-use and cost-effective detection and treatment of malaria by harnessing the nonlinear
optical response of hemozoin to electromagnetic radiation and subsequently heating the hemozoin, which results in damage
or death of the Plasmodium parasite.
Hemozoin detection occurs by interrogating via a spatially patterned, pulsed, multiplexed, electromagnetic stimulus, and
monitoring the nonlinear, multi-harmonic response. The response is compared with a stored spectral profile for hemozoin.
Depending on the duration and characteristics of the electromagnetic stimulus, nonlinear response of hemozoin can include a
second, third, or fourth harmonic response.
Hemozoin can be detected by using dark-field imaging or Rheinberg illumination, where a multi-mode dark-field stimulus
is provided to a region in the presence of a magnetic field (such as an RF signal), and the resulting response of hemozoin is
captured. An RF signal can be used to perturb the hemozoin particles.
Once malaria is diagnosed via hemozoin detection, it can be treated by inducing heating of the hemozoin. An actively
controlled, time-varying magnetic field stimulus can be provided to cause paramagnetic hemozoin to generate heat.
Detection as well as treatment of malaria can also occur concurrently, where nonlinear optical detection of hemozoin is
combined with magnetically induced oscillation, translation, or rotation of hemozoin particles, causing damage to the
Plasmodium parasite. In addition, treatment can occur causing the nonlinear harmonic response of hemozoin to be the
generation of antimicrobial ultraviolet energy that can cause programmed cell death of Plasmodium parasite.
These technologies can be utilized for detection and treatment of malaria in vitro, in vivo, or ex vivo. In vivo detection and
treatment can be performed transdermally (via electromagnetic energy), while ex vivo detection and treatment can be
performed by running blood through an external device.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Mechanisms to Provide Treatment in Desired Body Locations
Technologies are provided to minimize medical errors and ensure that medical or surgical intervention is performed on the
correct anatomic or pathologic site, limb or organ. A dynamic barrier containing magnetorheological fluid provides access
to treatment locations while blocking access to non-treatment locations based on changes to the rheological state of the
dynamic barrier. The position of surgical tools can be tracked using fiducial indicators. On detecting the presence of a surgical
tool in the proximity of the non-treatment location, an electrical voltage is applied to the dynamic barrier. Application of
electrical voltage hardens the magnetorheological fluid, thereby protecting the non-treatment location.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Microfluidic Chips for Allergen and Pathogen Detection
Methods and systems are provided that facilitate detection of allergens and pathogens. In some instances, the detection
threshold for allergens can be configured to comply with the sensitivity of an individual to the detected allergen. Results
of the detection process are presented to the operator of the device. Some detection devices and systems also utilize
microfluidic chip technologies to facilitate detection of allergens and pathogens. The microfluidic chip-based devices can
accept user input; transmit signals that include information on identified pathogens present within tested samples; and
receive signals that include information to reduce pathogenicity of the identified pathogens.
Methods and systems are also provided for separating fluids or solids suspended in fluids by placing sample fluids into
separation channels. This allows the fluids to be in parallel or anti-parallel laminar flow. Then constituents of one fluid type
are translocated into another fluid type, and the process can be repeated serially. Translocation of the constituents could be
accomplished by mixing magnetically active agents that bind to the constituents to form magnetically active constituents and
by separating the magnetically active constituents with the use of magnetic fields. Magnetically active antibodies, aptamers,
nucleic acids, ligands, or polypeptides, which are coupled to ferrous or non-ferrous metallic particles, can be used as agents
to bind to the constituents.
This technology can be used in medical and research laboratories to accurately and more quickly analyze biological
specimens or other materials.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Monitoring and Treating Syringe Mechanism
Technologies are provided for developing a syringe that can monitor and analyze body fluid conditions and dispense
medications to provide necessary treatment based on the monitored conditions. The syringe can be operated by an individual
to analyze and treat himself in the absence of a medical professional. The syringe can include a feedback mechanism to
control an element in the body fluid. The syringe can be used in the treatment of diabetes, AIDS, cancer and a variety of other
illnesses.
The syringe can be composed of several modules, including:
• An analyzer to withdraw a fluid sample and analyze the sample
• A dispenser to inject medications into the body
• A controller to manage sampling and dispensing
Various elements can be utilized to withdraw a sample or inject a medication, including uniaxial, coaxial or parallel axial
needles, tubes, patches, etc. The syringe can communicate with other devices to receive commands on what treatment
regimen to dispense.
This device can quickly and cost-effectively monitor and treat patients in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient
and nursing facilities, or at home.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
MRI Using Targeted Ferromagnetic Compositions
Technologies are provided for creating a magnetic resonance imaging system that does not require the use of an external
magnet or an externally generated static magnetic field. A magnetic field can be generated in vivo by administering a
composition of ferromagnetic microstructures that have voids, which are accessible to biological samples in the body, with
inherent magnetic fields within them.
The composition can include multiple sets of ferromagnetic microstructures with each set designed with a magnetic field of
a particular strength that elicits a unique spectral signature. Each set can be made with different targeting moieties to target
different tissues, proteins, cells, genes, chromosomes, etc., and multiple sets of ferromagnetic microstructures with unique
magnetic field strengths can be administered simultaneously to target and image multiple cell types.
The ferromagnetic structures can be coated with pH degradable, photodegradable, or other types of membranes to:
• Selectively allow access to the void
• Enable transit of the microstructures to the target site
• Limit penetration of RF in portions of the void
The imaging system can include:
• An RF transmitter for creating a magnetic resonance event in the target region that is exposed to the voids of the ferromagnetic microstructures
• A receiver to detect the spatial distribution of the magnetic resonance event
• A monitor or display to show the findings to the user of the system
The imaging system can be utilized to cost-effectively and more precisely detect and diagnose a variety of acute or chronic
conditions, such as cancer or Alzheimer’s disease. For example, the accuracy and precision of breast cancer imaging can be
dramatically improved by using multiple sets of ferromagnetic microstructures targeting different breast tumor cell markers
or receptors, including epidermal growth factor receptor 2, and estrogen and progesterone receptor. In another example,
targeted ferromagnetic microstructures can be used for imaging of beta-amyloid plaque associated with Alzheimer’s
disease. Microstructures with two targeting moieties, one that specifically recognizes beta-amyloid plaque and a second that
promotes transit across the blood-brain barrier can be administered intravascularly to detect beta-amyloid in the brain.
This system can also be utilized in research and development, where sensitive and inexpensive imaging of disease model
organisms is critical, particularly in cancer models and stem cell studies. Ferromagnetic microstructures that target genes,
transgenes, chromosomes, cell surface receptors, or other markers can be used to accurately and cost-effectively evaluate
tumor models with respect to tumor progression, regression, stability, and metastasis.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Neuromodulation Based on Activity State
Technologies are provided for developing an implantable or external therapeutic device that modulates neural activity by
blocking conduction in peripheral nerves (or in nerve fibers within the peripheral nerves) by applying reversible blocking
stimuli, such as electrical, chemical, magnetic, thermal, or ultrasonic stimuli, in order to produce desirable therapeutic
effects. The blocking stimuli can be delivered based on the activity state of the patient. In the case of the external device, the
blocking stimuli can be delivered transdermally to reach the target tissue.
The system can include sensors that measure:
• Overall activity state of the patient such as sleeping, walking, or reclining state
• Activity state of a target body portion such as the state of an arm resting or writing
Various types of sensors can be used to detect physical or physiological activity states. Sensors can include force sensors;
accelerometers; temperature sensors; physiological sensors that measure heart rate, respiration rate, brain activity, or other
physiological parameters; and other types of sensors.
The system can be configured:
• To apply (or turn on) and remove (or turn off) the blocking stimulus when the patient (or target body portion) switches from one activity state to another
• To apply the stimulus in a cyclical pattern (e.g., daily or weekly intervals)
These technologies can be utilized in blocking neural activity to generate desired therapeutic effects in the treatment of a
variety of medical conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, vascular disease, or pain management.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Neurotropic Agent Delivery via Implantable Devices
Technologies are provided for developing an implantable device that can modulate the concentration of neurotrophins within,
or in the vicinity of, neural tissues by releasing additional neurotrophins and/or inhibitors that prevent the degradation of
neurotrophins. The device can be composed of several components, including:
• Sensors to measure the concentration, and monitor the release, of neurotrophins and/or inhibitor
• Reservoirs to store neurotrophins and/or inhibitors
• A controller that can control the release of neurotrophins and/or inhibitors
• An external device that can display information from the sensors and send wireless signals to the implanted device, indicating the amount of neurotrophins and/or inhibitors to release based on detected and target concentrations
The device can be used to diagnose or treat a variety of neurologic, auditory, olfactory, ophthalmologic, and other conditions
(such as chronic depression) that are associated with neurodegeneration or low neurotrophin levels. The device can be
coupled with other treatment modalities or devices, such as neural tissue grafts and implants. It can also be utilized for
research and development of neurotrophins or other compositions.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Nucleic Acid Hybridization
Nucleic acid hybridization is used for identifying unknown nucleic acids sequences for a variety of applications. This includes
diagnostic assays in different pathologies such as infections, cancers and genetic disorders, as well as predisposition to
disease. Current methods used for nucleic acid hybridization utilize a large number of probes that makes the process
laborious, time consuming and sometimes cost-prohibitive. Methods and technologies are provided that reduce the
number of probes required for nucleic acid detection or amplification in a target nucleic acid analyte. There is a need to
determine the identity of an unknown nucleotide at a position of interest in a target nucleic acid analyte. The technology
includes a set of oligonucleotide probes that utilize degenerate nucleotides that correspond to the position of interest. The
degenerate nucleotides in the probe set are capable of base pairing with all but one possible nucleotide at the position of
interest, thereby reducing the total number of probes required. This novel technology can be used for forensic and paternity
testing, genetic analyses and engineering improvements in livestock. It can also be used for identification of pathogenic
contamination in foods, water, pharmaceuticals and cosmeceuticals.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Nutraceutical
Various technologies are provided for developing systems related to recommending, dispensing and providing information on nutraceuticals, in order to provide a user with
customized nutraceutical regimens or to enable a user to make informed decisions regarding the use of nutraceuticals.
Accepting Input and Making Recommendations
Technologies are provided for developing a computational system that accepts input from a user regarding the user’s goals and parameters, and based on the input makes
recommendations on a nutraceutical regimen that will help the user meet the goals. User goals can be mental, physical, physiological or performance-related. User parameters can
include blood pressure, age, medication regimens, and medical, family and social history. Over time, based on user input, the system can determine the efficacy of the nutraceutical
regimen and recommend changes to the regimen. The system can be implemented via a website.
Agent Selection, Packaging and Dosing
Technologies are provided for developing an agent selection and packaging system that accepts input from a user and recommends, selects and packages nutraceutical and
pharmaceutical agents for the user. The user can provide input to the system via a cell phone or a computer, and a dispensing device can select and package the necessary agents.
The system can be configured to select agents that possess a synergistic effect and avoid adverse drug interactions. Various techniques are provided for packaging the agents. The
agents can be packaged in various acceptable, immediate or time-release carriers for oral or other routes of administration. The agents can also be packaged and labeled in unit
dosage forms or in storage materials. The agents can also come in multiple concentric wrappers or nested capsules that release at different times and sites. Agent selection and
packaging systems can be developed for use in hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, dental offices, pharmacies and for home use.
Microfluidic Chips for Detection of Nutraceuticals
Technologies are provided for developing a device that includes microfluidic chips that accept samples, such as blood, sweat or hair, from a user; and analyze the samples in order
to determine the right nutraceutical regimen for the user. The analysis of the assays and other user parameters can help determine the user’s metabolic response to a nutraceutical
agent and the correct dosage and frequency of administration of the nutraceutical. The device can also be used to determine the presence of certain nutraceutical components in
food and dietary supplements.
Ordering Based on Knowing Consumption Regimen
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized system and user interface that orders nutraceuticals by taking into account the user’s preferences and consumption
regimen as well as results of the user’s tests or other diagnostic findings.
Providing Assistance Related to Health
Technologies are provided for developing a user interface, such as a website, with a database that provides users with health-related information on nutraceuticals. The content for
the website can be populated via a user-generated format by:
• Vendors who sell the agents
• Publishers
• Experts
• Consumers and patients
Consumers will be able to purchase the listed agents by a variety of payment options from vendors that are members of the website.
Visual Marking for Medication
Technologies are provided to develop customized labeling of medications, nutraceuticals and other health-related products. To enable users to recognize the agents, the label on
the bottle or the medication itself (e.g., tablet or capsule) can include a variety of identifiers, such as:
• An elliptical shape
• An S monogram
• A partial checkerboard pattern
• A particular color or texture
• Patient’s photo
• Buddy icon
• Avatar
Potential Applications
These technologies can be utilized to develop a website with user-generated content that provides not only information on the safety and efficacy of nutraceuticals, medications
and other health-related products, but also a social network for consumers to share their experience, with the use of these products. Experts, vendors and consumers can provide
their opinion, on nutraceutical or other regimens and the system will utilize this information to recommend treatment regimens based on individual goals and parameters.
These technologies can also be utilized to develop a personalized, self-serve nutraceutical “vending machine” or dispensing device that performs and processes multiple functions,
including:
• Obtaining user information such as goals and parameters
• Taking samples from users and testing them for pathogens or other diagnostic parameters
• Providing health-related information and recommendations
• Dispensing prescription (with physician approval) and over-the-counter products such as nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Obfuscating Nucleic or Protein Content of an Environment
Degradation of biological identifiers of individuals or groups is essential in preventing identity theft and non-permissive
cloning. Methods and systems are provided for monitoring environments (such as a room) for the presence of biological
material and biological identifiers, identifying the obfuscating components required to mask or degrade the biological
materials and biological identifiers, and delivering the obfuscating components to the environment. The biological materials
and biological identifiers can include nucleic acids and proteins. The obfuscating components come in various forms—
such as liquid, powder, gel or aerosol—that are used in cleaning and disinfecting products, including soaps, shampoos and
environmental cleansers. The system can provide additional security options that detect the presence of a person in the
room by sensing movement, heat, pressure, light or other environmental factors. The system can also include other features,
including a graphical interface to determine the demographic information of the individual or groups associated with the
detected biological materials as well as analysis of possible outcomes of applying obfuscating components.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Path-Following Surgical Tool
Technologies are provided for developing customized surgical tools, including the design, fabrication, and utilization of the
tools. These customized tools can be configured to follow a curved path through soft tissue along a user-specific path from
the point of insertion into tissue to the ultimate destination of the tool’s operational tip. The curved path minimizes disruption
and mechanical stress to the tissue during and after the tip’s passage through the tissue. CT or MRI data can be used to
develop images that are used to plan the user-specific path that minimizes interaction of the tool with high-risk or critical
structures in tissue between the insertion point and the destination of the tool tip.
These technologies can be utilized for developing surgical tools that address minimally invasive approaches to procedures
such as:
• Tissue and bone biopsy
• Local administration of therapeutic agents
• Placement of implanted sensors and actuators
• Access to deep brain structures
• Delivery of therapeutic agents to cerebral tumors
• Neurological interventions for treating Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, etc.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Photoactivatable Targeting Compositions Made of Modified RBCs
Technologies are provided for developing compositions with modified red blood cells (RBCs) that are used as vehicles to
deliver photoactivatable agents that kill target pathogenic or cancerous cells.
RBCs can be modified by using known techniques for separating RBCs from whole blood, sorting mature RBCs from other
RBCs, and attaching target-binding agents to the mature RBCs. The target-binding agents are selected to bind to a particular
target cell, and include photoactivatable and quenching molecules. Quenching molecules ensure that the photoactivatable
molecules do not activate unless the target-biding agents are attached to the target cell. The modified RBCs can be loaded
with therapeutic agents such as antibiotics or chemotherapeutic agents.
Upon administration of the compositions with modified RBCs to the patient, the target-binding agents (on the modified
RBCs) bind to target cells. Quenching molecules are then released or separated from the photoactivatable molecules that
can release oxygen radicals upon activation with electromagnetic energy of a particular wavelength. Each photoactivatable
molecule releases an oxygen radical that directly kills the target cell or disrupts the RBC membrane to release therapeutic
agents that kill the target cell.
The modified RBCs can be configured to deliver photoactivatable markers to enable detection of target cells by imaging or
other techniques.
These technologies can be applied in the diagnostic testing of biological samples, in the treatment of bacterial, viral, or fungal
infections, and in the treatment of oncological diseases.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Photolyzable Nitric Oxide Donors
Methods and systems are provided to deliver nitric oxide to a region of interest via photo-activated nitric oxide donors.
The method can involve administering photolyzable nitric oxide donors either systemically or locally to an individual and
illuminating the region of interest with light. This releases nitric oxide from the donor. The light source and devices that
release nitric oxide on illumination can be external or implanted in an individual’s body. The technology can be used to
address acute and chronic health-related conditions, including male erectile dysfunction, female arousal disorder, burn
treatment, superficial and deep wound treatment, and skin grafts.
Demonstration of concept is underway at the IV Lab for the treatment of acute and chronic wounds.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Physiologic and Health Monitoring Devices
Technologies are provided for monitoring a user’s health status via the user’s interaction with devices, particularly portable
devices that are frequently used, such as cell phones, mp3 players or video game systems. Certain user interactions can
be monitored via sensors that capture at least one physiologic parameter by manipulating an output of the device and
subsequently analyzing the user’s reaction, response or interaction with the device. The sensors can capture a variety of
physiological parameters, including:
• Cardiac function
• Respiratory rate
• Oxygen saturation
• Neural or mental status
• Hydration
• pH level
These technologies can be utilized to effectively and more conveniently diagnose, monitor and treat a variety of chronic
conditions, particularly in psychiatric, neurologic and rehabilitative areas requiring long-term, response-stimulus information
to diagnose and adjust or optimize treatment, such as in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy. These
technologies can also be applied to other chronic conditions including cardiac disease, diabetes, arthritis, asthma and pain.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Position-Augmenting Mechanism
Technologies are provided for developing “position-augmenting mechanisms” for use in orthopedic and spine surgeries to
improve relative positioning between elements such as screws, rods, fasteners, etc.
A variety of “position-augmenting mechanisms” are provided:
• The “position-augmenting mechanism” can be configured to attach an unsecured attachment element (such as a pedicle
screw that is attached to bone) to an unsecured bridge element (such as a rod). In this configuration, an engagement
portion that is coupled to the screw receives and couples with the rod. The engagement portion can be configured to closely conform to the contour, structure, and/or shape of the rod
• The engagement portion can be a “threadless engagement portion” that has bendable portions that wrap around the rod to hold it in place relative to the screw; other coupling mechanisms for the “threadless engagement portion” are provided
• Alternately, the engagement portion can be made of shape memory alloy that changes shape on electrical activation to couple with the rod and hold it in place relative to the screw
• The “position-augmenting mechanism” can be configured to be inserted into a body cavity and support the cavity wall (such as an abdominal wall or thoracic wall) away from the organ in the cavity that the surgeon needs to access. In this configuration, a stabilizing member, shaped and sized to be inserted into the cavity, supports a maintaining member that is in a deflated state; after placement in the cavity, the maintaining member changes to an inflated state and applies pressure on the cavity wall to separate the wall from the operating organ or tissue
These technologies can be utilized for:
• Orthopedic and spinal surgeries that include spinal repairs, relative fusion of vertebra, removal or repair of disks, and spinal straightening
• Attaching and aligning fluid-handling or shunt devices, including tubes, valves or controllers
• Creation of surgical operating space in the thoracic and abdominal cavities during surgeries
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Power Generation from Intra-luminal Pressure Changes
Technologies are provided for developing an intra-luminal power generation device that utilizes fluid pressure changes in a
lumen to generate power for operating a variety of medical devices. This device can contain several components, including:
• A pressure-change-receiving structure
• A power generator
• An energy storage device
The pressure-change-receiving structure can be a resilient polymeric membrane disposed over a free space void to partition
the free space from the luminal environment. The intra-luminal fluid can exert a force on the membrane to result in its motion
or deformation.
The power generator can be:
• Shaped as a ring that can fit into the lumen
• Attached to the lumen walls by hooks, barbs, etc.
• Tethered to the lumen wall
• Coupled with other power generators disposed in other lumens
The generator can be configured as:
• A MEMS generator that converts motion of the pressure-change-receiving structure into mechanical energy; the generator can have a piston, lever, spring, or ratchet mechanism that is coupled to the pressure-change-receiving structure
• A ferromagnetic generator; the pressure-change-receiving structure can include a ferromagnet so that motion of the pressure-change-receiving structure can be converted into current via magnetic induction
• A pump where the motion of the pressure-change-receiving structure can rotate one or more rotors to increase the pressure of the fluid in the pump
• A piezoelectric generator
The power generator can be coupled with one or more energy storage devices (such as capacitors, batteries, fuel cells, etc.)
via infrared, inductive, resonant inductive, or other types of coupling; and energy can be transferred from one energy storage
device to another.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Predicting and Underwriting Risk Based on Epigenetic Information
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized system that determines correlations between an individual’s
epigenetic information and health risks associated with the epigenetic information. Epigenetic information can include
information regarding DNA methylation such as methylation patterns of multiple genomic loci, histone/chromatin structure
and/or biochemical modification or other higher order chromosomal structures. The system can be used, by an insurance
company for example, to review the epigenetic information of an individual and underwrite a financial risk based on the
health risk determined from the epigenetic information. Insurance policies and premiums can be based on assessed health
risks. Environmental factors that are connected to certain health conditions can also be included in the analysis. Various
scenarios of epigenetic information and corresponding health risks can be captured and stored in a database, which can be
made available for a subscription fee.
This system can be utilized by a variety of industries that carry liabilities associated with an individual’s health risks, including
insurance companies, government agencies, labor unions and corporations.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Predicting Clinical Outcomes Based on Epigenetics and mtDNA Information
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized system that determines correlations between an individual’s
epigenetic information and outcome of a potential medical therapy for the individual. Epigenetic information can include
DNA methylation, histone structure, multiple genomic loci, and chromosomes. The system may also draw correlations
between epigenetic-influencing events such as lifestyle or exposure to environmental toxins and the epigenetic information of
an individual.
Technologies are also provided for developing a computerized system that determines correlations between an individual’s
mitochondrial DNA information and outcome of a potential medical therapy for the individual. Mitochondrial DNA information
could include information regarding mitochondrial DNA sequence, heteroplasmy, or maternal relatives.
These systems can be utilized during clinical trials to determine not only the eligibility of participants but also to predict
outcomes of a drug or therapy that’s being studied.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Predicting Pathogen Variants and Molecular Inhibitors
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized system that includes software programs that utilize various
algorithms and databases to identify a succession of molecules that need to be added to an initial molecule to create
successive complexes. The succession of molecules added to the initial molecule is selected to cause a specific desired final
characteristic in the terminal complex.
The system can be used to identify, simulate or predict molecular complexes required for treating diseases associated
with pathogens or polypeptides (such as protein misfolding). The process can involve predicting the structural model of a
first complex that includes a pathogen (initial) molecule and a first interactive molecule that can inhibit the activity of the
pathogen, predicting the structural model of a second complex that includes the first complex and a second interactive
molecule (such as a molecule that increases the stability or reduces the toxicity of the first complex), and so on until a
terminal complex with the desired characteristics is modeled.
Technologies are provided to develop a computerized system that utilizes a database that includes statistical and clinical data
to identify primary pathogens and predict their variants. The system can subsequently recommend consistent and effective
individualized therapeutic options to treat the underlying pathology.
These systems can be used in several sectors in the healthcare industry, including pharmaceutical discovery or research and
development. They can also help healthcare providers diagnose and provide the most consistent and optimal treatment
options for diseases caused by pathogens that are known to mutate frequently, such as HIV and influenza virus.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Presenting an Inhalation Experience
Technologies are provided for developing inhalation devices that can dispense medication to a patient and deliver an artificial
sensory experience to augment the effect of the medication.
The devices can include:
• A medication-dispensing collar, necktie, or bracelet with a reservoir (configured as a spray nozzle or nebulizer) that can store and deliver the medication in the form of aerosol, vapor, powder, or mist
• A virtual reality headset, helmet, or video glasses that, on inhalation of the medication by the patient, can present via a
presentation module an indication of a virtual world, other computer-simulated experience, or a triggering smell, sight, touch, sound, or taste
For example, an albuterol-dispensing collar can be worn around an asthma patient’s neck to dispense albuterol. Along
with dispensing the albuterol, a virtual mountain experience can be presented to help the patient learn effective breathing
techniques.
The inhalation device can have a variety of other features and configurations:
• It can communicate wirelessly with a computing system to receive instructions on dosing and frequency of administering the medication
• It can interface with a virtual multiplayer game (such as World of Warcraft)
• The dispensing collar can communicate with the virtual reality headset/video glasses that present the virtual experience, and both the glasses and the collar can communicate with the computer system
• It can be monitored by a healthcare professional via a secure website
• It can monitor the patient’s physiologic parameters, such as blood glucose or oxygen saturation
• It can have algorithms that take into account the patient’s history, such as a phobia, in order to select or recommend a virtual experience that avoids the phobia
• It can have a module to interface with the user, such as via a mobile phone, to allow the user to interact with the inhalation device
• It can be configured to produce desired therapeutic effects such as improving medication efficacy, or can be configured to mitigate adverse effects such as fever or headache
These technologies can be utilized to provide a virtual reality experience along with delivery of substances such as albuterol,
corticosteroids, nitric oxide, benzodiazepine, muscle relaxant, anesthetics, or oxygen. Technologies can also be used to
develop devices for recreational purposes, such as a device that provides aromatherapy with lemon oil along with a virtual
reality experience to enhance mood or relaxation.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Preventing RNA Degradation by Administering RNase Inhibitors
Technologies are provided for developing ribonuclease (RNase) inhibitors as a pharmaceutical composition that can be
administered to a patient to stabilize RNA in vivo in preparation for ex vivo analysis. The composition can be administered
to the patient within a defined time period prior to collecting a sample of body fluid or tissue. RNase inhibitors bind to
tissue RNA and/or RNase and prevent degradation of RNA by RNase. RNase inhibitors can be oligonucleotide molecules
that have complementary sequences to the RNA or its nuclease recognition sequences. Oligonucleotide molecules can be
proteins, RNA or DNA aptamers, or other molecules that bind to the RNA and prevent RNase from binding to the RNA. RNase
inhibitors can also be ribonuclease-binding molecules, such as antibodies or aptamers, which can prevent the transport of
RNase through the cell membrane.
The technology can be used to detect and compare the level of RNA in the sample of a sick patient to the level of RNA in a
normal sample, in samples taken from the sick patient at different time periods or in samples taken from different locations
in the body of the sick patient. The system can help improve the integrity of RNA yield in lab samples and provide real-time
diagnosis in critical settings for a variety of disease states, including infectious, autoimmune, inflammatory, cardiovascular
and neurologic diseases, and cancer.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Regime Monitoring by Analyzing Body Fluid Conditions
Technologies are provided for developing an implantable device that determines if an individual is maintaining a regimen
with regard to a medical treatment. The device can monitor and adjust treatment by collecting and analyzing body fluids
such as blood, urine or saliva. The device can include an implantable sensor (optical, chemical or other) that collects and
analyzes body fluids, determines if the individual has failed to maintain the regimen, and transmits the information to another
component or device that provides or adjusts the treatment. These technologies can be utilized to cost-effectively monitor
patient compliance and adjust treatment in real time for a variety of medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, and
infectious diseases, with or without the need for immediate medical supervision.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Remotely Controlled Substance Delivery and Reaction Devices
Methods and systems are provided relating to a remotely controlled device that can be used to locally and consistently
deliver small molecules and biologic drugs over an extended period of time, or to deliver high-dose concentrations over a
short period of time. Various configurations are provided for the device. It can be configured as an injectable device with a
deformable reservoir and a dispensing mechanism that includes thermally, magnetically, electrically, or electromagnetically
responsive material. The device can be configured as an osmotic pump with an osmotic chamber filled with hydrogel or other
osmotic pressure-generating material that responds to electromagnetic signals; thereby applying pressure on a delivery
reservoir to force fluid out of the delivery reservoir. It can also be configured to alter a concentration of a substance that
needs to be delivered by altering the shape of an element of the device in response to electromagnetic signals.
Methods and systems are also provided relating to a reaction device that includes electromagnetically or acoustically
responsive material, which alters a dimension or volume of a reaction region in response to signals. By controlling a
dimension or volume, the rate of reaction or other reaction conditions can be altered.
The delivery and reaction devices can be utilized in the treatment of various acute and chronic conditions, including pain
management. Other non-therapeutic applications include manufacturing of biologics, designing of laboratory instruments
and treatment of water.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Selection of Compounds for Multiphasic Epithelial Cellular Regulation
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized system that assists healthcare providers in the selection of
therapeutic compounds or drugs that can change or reduce the metabolic and telomerase activities of abnormal epithelial
cells, such as neoplastic or dysplastic cells that are associated with a variety of oncological or other pathological conditions.
The system can include a user interface that accepts input on target cells and the desired changes in the metabolic or
telomerase activities of the target cells. Desired changes in metabolic activities can include changes in mitosis rate, or
changes in cell differentiation or growth.
The system can help healthcare providers select drugs that are well tolerated by a patient whether administered in isolation
or in combination with other therapies.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Selective Resonance of Chemical Structures
Methods and systems are provided for applying a series of differing energy inputs to a target composition. These differing
energy inputs may be applied simultaneously, sequentially and/or in a temporally overlapping fashion. The energy inputs
can include multiple electromagnetic beams, which intersect at the target location. Each beam can have one characteristic
from a selected set of frequencies, a selected set of amplitudes, a selected temporal profile, a selected set of polarizations,
etc. Each energy input selectively resonates at least one structure in the target. Selective excitation may include applying
the first energy input to excite a first bond. This then changes or shifts the resonant frequency of a second bond; applying
a second energy input to excite the second bond at its shifted resonant frequency and so on. Together, the series of energy
inputs causes a chemical change that cannot be caused by applying any one energy input. The chemical change can include
breaking a bond, reconfiguring a molecule, etc. The system can be programmed to apply a series of specific energy inputs
that leads to a desired outcome, by using computational modeling of the target and stereoscopically observing the effects
of the various inputs. The system can include a device that is placed inside or on the body and emits predetermined energy
inputs to the target molecules.
The target molecule can represent a pathogen or other disease-related targets such as a protein, sugar, cholesterol or
triglyceride. The target composition can be a chemical agent with a characteristic set of proximate bonds that are selectively
responsive to a predetermined series of energy inputs. This type of agent can have many therapeutic uses.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Self-Sanitizing Surfaces
Methods and systems are provided to self-sanitize or disinfect touch screen surfaces within the healthcare delivery
environment, utilizing deep UV irradiation via total internal reflection evanescent coupling. In commercial application, the
technology can be utilized in conjunction with the emergence of touch screens found in infusion pumps, patient monitors,
nurse call systems, side rail controls for hospital beds and electronic patient charts to automatically deliver continuous
antibacterial activity with an aim at reducing hospital-acquired infections. Outside of healthcare, the technology can be
leveraged to create a self-disinfecting cell phone or PDA. Demonstration of concept and effectiveness testing is underway at
the IV Lab.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Self-Sanitizing Cutting Tools
Technologies are provided for developing self-sterilizing tools (such as knives, scissors, cauterizers, rotary cuffs, etc.) that
emit radiation to sterilize a sectioning portion of the tool. These tools can be used for cutting, dissecting, incising, piercing,
cleaving, drilling, curetting, etc. A self-sterilizing tool can be configured to sterilize portions of the tool intermittently or
continuously, before, during, and/or after surgery in order to avoid post-operative infections.
Various configurations of the self-sterilizing tool are provided:
• The tool can have an integrated radiation emitter, such as a UV emitter, that directs radiation onto the exterior sectioning surface of the tool
• The tool can have a radiation emitter and a conversion structure, such as a silver coating on the blade, to convert radiation from the emitter into plasmonic radiation on the surface of the blade
• The tool can include a switch that modulates the radiation emitter based on signals from a sensor, such as proximity, temperature, motion, biological, or other type of sensor. The switch can be used to:
• Turn the radiation emitter on or off
• Change the intensity of the radiation
• Modulate other features of the radiation
These technologies can be applied in developing self-sterilizing tools and equipment for use in:
• Operating rooms and doctor’s offices for surgical or non-surgical procedures
• Campsites
• Battlefields
• Trauma scenes
• Veterinary procedures that are often performed under non-sterile conditions
• Slaughterhouses to prevent the spread of infections such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)
• Harvesting to reduce the spread of blight and other plant infections in a field
• Food preparation and packaging to reduce food-borne illnesses
• Other outdoor situations such as in the military for food preparation or for minor procedures such as splint removal
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Skin as a Patient Management Tool
Technologies are provided for generating and displaying a pattern on a body surface of a patient. The pattern can be
embedded with:
• Medical and patient care information, including:
• Measurements such as blood pressure, weight history or heart rate
• Implant information
• Drug regimen and allergen data
• Indication of anomalous materials such as tumor, inflamed tissue, occlusion or plaque
• Indication of surgical site such as “left shoulder”
• Anatomical shape depicting a face or other tissue
• Temporal information such as date and time
• Surgical motion information indicating how a surgical tool should move during surgery
• Non-medical information
The pattern can present information in the form of a photograph, a barcode, medical images or textual data. The pattern
can be projected or printed via a transferrable media or directly on the patient’s skin or site of treatment (such as an organ
or limb) by using visible or ultraviolet ink. The patterning process can involve an optical masking material used with an
emitted radiation source. The pattern can be read or interpreted manually by an operator or automatically via a system that’s
configured to read the pattern with sensors.
The system can be used in healthcare facilities to optimize patient care with more effective communication while minimizing
medical errors, which ultimately improves outcomes and reduces costs.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Smart Dispensation Systems
Technologies are provided for developing a smart medication dispensation system that can be controlled wirelessly via
applications on a user’s cell phone and that can administer medications in anticipation of foreseeable or detectable future
events in the user’s life.
The smart dispensation system includes a local device to dispense medication or other bioactive materials, and an external
device (such as the user’s mobile phone) to control the dispensation by the local device.
The local device can interact with skin, sinus passage, gastrointestinal tract or other mucous membranes and administer
medication via a variety of configurations, including:
• An adhesive patch that administers through the skin
• A fluid-bearing conduit such as an intravenous catheter
• An implanted device
• An ingestible capsule
The local device can include multiple reservoirs to store different bioactive materials. The local device can receive control
signals from the external device and, based on the control signals, determine which reservoirs to dispense from and when to
dispense.
Future events in the user’s life, such as meal times, sleep times and work schedule, can be used to determine medication
dispensation timings. The user can provide input on future events to the external device or the external device can recognize
future events based on the user’s habits. These future events can be communicated by the external device to the local device
that can then dispense or delay dispensation based on the events.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Spectroscopic Detection of Malaria via the Eye
Technologies are provided for diagnosing malaria by spectral detection of hemozoin (in vivo) within ocular blood vessels.
Electromagnetic energy is applied, continuously or in short pulses, to ocular blood vessels (based on predicted or
detected location of ocular blood vessels) to induce a Raman spectral response from hemozoin. Various wavelengths of
electromagnetic energy and wave number ranges are provided to induce this response. The resulting backscatter is analyzed
for indications of hemozoin-specific spectra.
Ophthalmologic diagnostic devices and methodologies (such as scanning laser ophthalmoscopes) can be utilized to diagnose
malaria through the eye via the following steps:
• Light from an illuminating source is passed through a beam splitter and a lens prior to entering the eye
• The light enters through the pupil and contacts the retina
• The reflected or scattered light exits the eye through the pupil and passes through the lens and the beam splitter
• The beam splitter redirects the light to a detection system
The detection system can perform a variety of analyses on the returned light, including:
• Detecting Raman spectral response from hemozoin
• Mapping of vasculature locations
• Tracking blood flow velocity by using the Doppler effect generated by the electromagnetic energy; acoustic energy (e.g., ultrasonic energy) can also be used to generate Doppler effect
Commonly used ophthalmologic devices can be configured to detect Raman scattering from ocular blood vessels for in vivo
diagnosis of malaria via the eye.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Steerable, Maneuverable Surgical Stapler with Tissue Sealants
Methods and systems are provided to develop flexible and steerable surgical staplers and other surgical instruments to easily
maneuver and reach areas of patient’s body that are difficult to visualize and access. The shaft, grasping jaws and staples or
fasteners can be created from shape-transforming materials such as shape memory alloys. The staplers and their grasping
jaws can come with different types of sensors. They are coupled to an image-display device that can cue the surgeon—or
an automated force generator mechanism—to adjust and release the staples with minimal force. The stapler can have other
features such as a dispenser that houses and releases tissue sealants or other precursor compounds. The instrument can be
configured as an optical, laser or other type of cutting device.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Subdermal Analyte Obtaining Devices—Blood Glucose Testing
Methods and systems are provided for a monitoring device that collects and analyzes a variety of analytes, such as blood for
glucose testing and monitoring. A system could include a subdermal sampling and discharging unit that collects the analyte
and ejects it through the skin. The system would include an external unit that receives and analyzes the ejected analyte.
The discharging unit can communicate with the receiving unit to provide information on the collected analyte. It can guide
the alignment of the receiving unit using different mechanisms including fluorescent markers or a fiducial such as a tattoo
on the skin. Once aligned, the discharging unit can eject the analyte using several different mechanisms, including a MEMSbased micro-jet that uses pressure to discharge the collected analyte via a micro-nozzle; allowing the analyte to penetrate
without damaging the skin. The sampling and discharging unit can be powered via several methods, such as by a battery,
the receiving unit, or from the body. The system can be used to non-invasively collect and analyze specimens and samples
including pathogens, blood components, and a variety of other cells and proteins.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Surgical Feedback and Surgical Instrument Navigation System
Technologies are provided for developing a feedback system for surgical instruments that supplies real-time imaging and
haptic or other sensory cues to the operator in order to minimize tissue injury and to ensure safe navigation of the surgical
instruments.
The feedback system can include sensors that, for example:
• Are coupled to a surgical instrument or are part of other devices used in the operating room
• Can detect physical boundaries of anatomical organs within or outside an operative field
• Can determine a position or orientation of the surgical instrument relative to an anatomical organ or relative to a user of the surgical instrument
• Can transmit signals such as data, images (e.g., CT, MRI, X-ray), or other information regarding positions or boundaries of anatomical organs relative to each other to the surgical instrument or to the user’s computer
• Can track the trajectory of the surgical instrument with a feedback system providing information on differences between the desired and the actual trajectory
The transmitted sensor signals can be transformed into real-time haptic feedback signals or cues, including, for example:
• Tactile output information
• Alphanumeric or numeric signals
• Audio, visual, or other sensory signals that a user may read, feel, touch, or hear
• Virtual objects or images visible on a computer screen
• Tactile information indicating the distribution of forces (such as amplitude, frequency, direction, rate of change, etc.) being imposed on a portion of the surgical instrument
The surgical instrument can activate and deactivate based on information detected by sensors. The activation or deactivation
can include reorientation, reconfiguration, adjustment, or repositioning of the surgical instrument.
These technologies can be implemented in various invasive and noninvasive surgical instruments and devices, such as
endoscopes, dissectors, scalpels, laser scalpels, knives, blades, sutures, catheters, scissors, cutters, graspers, drivers, drills,
saws, clampers, pulverizers, rushers, grinders, trocars, staplers, suctions, cauterizers, retractors, probes, etc.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Surgical Instruments with Tissue Sealant Dispensers
Technologies are provided for developing surgical instruments that have dispensers and an actuation mechanism to dispense
tissue sealants or precursor compounds at a surgical site. Precursor compounds can form the tissue sealant on reacting with,
for example, blood, photons, heat, or an endogenous substrate. The dispensers can be configured to dispense antisepsis,
antibacterial, anti-infectious, or other agents, along with the tissue sealants, in order to promote, for example, antimicrobiosis,
angiogenesis, tissue growth, or hemostasis.
The dispenser can have a variety of features, components, or configurations, including:
• Micron-sized outlet ports to deliver micro-fluidic amounts
• The ability to dispense tissue sealants such that the sealant adheres to holes created by a stapler; microdroplets of tissue sealant can be delivered to pinpoint locations to seal the holes created by the stapler
• The ability to deliver sealant to coat the staples
• Protractible or retractable outlet ports for accurate deposition of sealants
• The ability to pre-coat surgical staples, fasteners, or cutters with tissue sealants
• Sensors to measure the rate of sealant delivery and the amount of sealant remaining in the dispenser
• Proximity detectors that provide signals to guide the user for accurate positioning of the outlet port
• An option to be coupled to flexible or deformable graspers that are made of shape-transforming material such as shape memory alloy
These technologies can be implemented in a variety of surgical instruments such as staplers, fasteners, trocars, cutters, pins,
sutures, cords, or any other instrument used to physically bring together two or more bodily tissues in areas that include
blood vessels, nerves, cartilage, bones, pulmonary arteries, veins, gastrointestinal lining, the thoraco-abdominal cavity, etc.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Surgical Probe for Expedited Histological Examination and Treatment
Technologies are provided for developing a handheld diagnostic and therapeutic surgical tool or probe that extends into the
body and can perform various functions such as in vivo imaging, histological and pathological analysis, and treatment. Images
and other results may be available during surgery or may facilitate real-time collaboration with remote users.
The probe can be configured for:
• Imaging or applying optical treatment to tissue and can include:
• A tip with laser, ultrasonic, or other type of emitters to transmit light or other forms of energy into tissue
• Lenses or other elements near the tip to detect optical or other attributes of the tissue
• A connection to an electron microscope or other imaging device
• Applying chemical treatment to tissue and can include:
• Channels to dispense therapeutic agents or other materials into tissue
• A syringe to inject aldehyde or other fixatives into tissue
• Channels to dispense optical enhancement materials such as stains or to apply other treatments prior to imaging or other analysis
• Performing histological analysis of tissue samples and can include:
• An extraction module with chambers for receiving fluid or tissue samples that can be extracted by vacuum or other methods
• The ability to treat the samples with a chemical agent and study the results to determine if the tissue is abnormal
• The ability to maintain partial vacuum adjacent to tissues in vivo to avoid releasing chemical agents into the patient
• The ability to transfer the extraction module to an imaging device
• The ability to freeze a specimen or otherwise treat the specimen prior to extraction
These technologies can be utilized to develop mobile and handheld probes for in vivo or expedited analysis or extraction of
abnormal cells or other tissues of interest.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
System for Delivering Material to a Subdermal Device
Technologies are provided for non-invasive delivery of materials through the skin to a subdermal device. The subdermal
device can be placed under the skin and a delivery device can be placed on top of the skin; the delivery device transfers
material through the skin to the subdermal device.
Various techniques can be used to transfer material through the skin, including:
• Iontophoresis by giving the two devices opposite electric polarity, thus creating an electric field between the two devices
• A MEMS-based micro-jet that uses pressure to discharge the material via a micro-nozzle, which allows the material to penetrate without damaging the skin
• Subjecting the skin to an energy field that creates small pores on the skin to increase permeability, thereby allowing the material to go through
• Sonophoresis in which ultrasonic waves can cause micro-vibrations, thus allowing material to migrate through the skin
The subdermal device can communicate with the delivery device regarding the type and timing of additional material needed.
The subdermal device can use fluorescent markers or a fiducial point such as a tattoo on the skin to guide alignment of its
inlet ports with output ports of the delivery device. Imaging techniques can be used to define a path that avoids nerves,
blood vessels or other structures. The subdermal device can be powered by a battery or by the delivery device, and both
devices can come with reservoirs for storage of material. These technologies can be used to replenish subcutaneous devices
that are used to perform bioassays or provide treatment.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
System for Methods for Disinfecting Areas
Methods and systems are provided for identifying objects within an area that require disinfection, and for applying one or
more disinfection agents to those objects or portions of the area. The system can analyze an area to determine the positions
of the objects. This information can be used to direct disinfection agents onto objects or portions of the area that are to be
disinfected. It can also be used to avoid application of the agents onto an object or portions of an area that are not to be
disinfected. The system can include a survey unit that detects and analyzes the area and determines the amount and type of
agents necessary for disinfection. This information is then transmitted to a mobile or stationary disinfection unit that applies
agents such as ultraviolet light, chemicals, radiation or gases. The system can offer additional features such as a controlling
unit that restricts access to the area until it is disinfected, or prevents the application of disinfection agents if the presence of
humans is detected. The system can be utilized in medical facilities, as well as public and private facilities including airplane
cabins, ships, subways, buses, trains, homes and schools.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
System for Genome Selection for Fertilization and Breeding
Methods and systems are provided to select germ line genomes for fertilization and breeding of livestock with optimal
genetic traits devoid of genetic diseases, while incorporating desired qualities and productivity, such as milk production and
egg laying. Genomic selection can involve in-vitro hybridization of nucleic acid probes with nucleic acid sequences of male
or female haploid germs cells, in order to determine the genetic characteristics of the haploid germ cells. After separating
the desired male and female haploid germ cells, they can be co-localized for fertilization. A system may include various units
for genome hybridization and separation, coupled with a graphical user-interface that can determine certain parameters
and outcome possibilities or other vital information. This is accomplished by comparing and analyzing the desired genetic
characteristics with a given database.
Similar methods and systems are provided to prevent genetic diseases associated with mitochondrial DNA mutations, or
with telomeric DNA mutations, from being passed on to the offspring in humans. The process involves replacing selected
chromosomal homologues, mitochondrial chromosome variants or telomere variants from germ line cells.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
System for Suggesting Agents Based on Biomedical Data
Technologies are provided for developing a computerized system that can diagnose and recommend safe and effective
therapeutic agents, such as pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals or biologics for a target population or subpopulation. The system
accepts input on a medical condition and provides output on agents that have efficacy for treating the medical condition. In
addition, the system identifies subpopulations that have demonstrated an acceptable level of adverse events and, optionally,
a defined level of efficacy on being administered the selected agents. The system can utilize a variety of existing or new
databases to capture relevant information about the safety and efficacy of a given agent and its effect on subpopulations.
Examples of existing databases include:
• FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System
• FDA’s clinicaltrials.gov
• Physicians’ Desk Reference
The system can accept input on an allergy such as to a drug, food or pollen, and identify populations that are susceptible
to the allergy. The system can access a patient’s health data to determine innate (genetic, epigenetic, etc.) and acquired
(environmental, dietary, etc.) determinants of an allergy and assess the patient’s allergy risk compared with that of a specified
population.
The system can provide healthcare providers and others in the healthcare industry (such as pharmaceutical researchers)
comprehensive and up-to-date safety and efficacy information for a given agent used in patients or segments of a population
with a certain profile and characteristics.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
System for Suggesting Treatments Based on Tissue Coding
Methods and systems are provided for targeted cell-based therapy that utilizes the unique properties of the target tissue
or organ to deliver a treatment agent to or away from the target site. A treatment agent can be uniquely associated with
binding agents or ligands that selectively bind to receptors on the target cells, thereby minimizing systemic side effects. A
system that can capture all possible associations between treatment binding agents and binding sites can be developed to
provide the clinician with an array of targeted treatment options. This system can also include a graphical user interface that
provides the clinician with a comparative and/or predictive analysis of outcomes for the various treatment options. This works
to provide the patient with the best possible treatment with minimal adverse events. This novel technology can provide the
clinician and the healthcare community with a more robust and complex set of parameters to diagnose and treat patients.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Targeted Delivery of High Concentrations of Short-Lived Drugs
Technologies are provided for localized delivery of high concentrations of short-lived therapeutic agents (i.e., with short
half-lives). Therapeutic agents (such as anticoagulants; local anesthetics; anti-inflammatory, genetic, antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic agents) can be delivered locally (to a joint, heart, kidney, lung, brain, liver, spleen, etc.) at concentrations that are
considered toxic if administered systemically.
The short-lived therapeutic agents can be delivered to local areas by an implantable device that is temporarily or permanently
implanted in the body, and can deliver the therapeutic agents on a schedule, on remote activation, or in response to sensed
conditions.
The implantable device can have a reservoir for holding the therapeutic agents and a mechanism for delivering the agents
non-systemically to the local area. The reservoir can be configured as:
• A microcapsule with a multi-layered shell where the outermost layer is semi-permeable to enable delivery of the agents
• A tube with multiple chambers for holding the agents
• A stent with a mesh to allow the agents to diffuse out
• A liposome with a lipid bilayer that has hydrophilic, phosphate-containing heads and hydrophobic tails to hold the agents
These technologies can be utilized to treat a variety of acute and chronic conditions by locally delivering high concentrations
of therapeutic agents to:
• Tumors, such as sarcomas of the limbs and brain tumors
• Blood vessels to treat malfunctions such as arteriovenous malformation in the brain, hemorrhoids, or varicose veins
• Organs to treat single organ diseases such as erectile dysfunction
• Areas of the body that require pain relief
• Infected sites
• Portions of the bones to effect bone growth and enhance bone healing
• The heart to promote revascularization of injured or hypoxic tissue after a heart attack or stroke
• Breast tissue or other parts of the anatomy following cosmetic or reconstructive plastic surgery
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Temperature-Stabilized Storage Containers
Technologies are provided for developing and manufacturing thermally sealed containers that are made of ultra-efficient insulation material
and can store and dispense units of medicines or other biologically active compounds over time. The containers do not require power, are
portable, and can be used in cold chain applications.
Many configurations are provided to enable the containers to dispense units of medicine over time, including:
• Interlocks that allow controllable egress of a quantity of material from one or more thermally sealed storage regions within the container
• Selectively operable passageways that allow units of medicine to pass from an interior, thermally insulated storage region to an intermediate region before exiting the container
The containers can include many units and capabilities, such as:
• Heat sinks
• A nontoxic inner lining
• A display device
• Communication capability
• Capability of being associated with an information system
• Sensors to measure the temperature inside the container, the stored mass, or the volume inside the container
The ultra-efficient insulation material can be made from thermally insulating Multi-layer Insulation (MLI) composite material with multiple
(>20) thermally reflective layers that can have a variety of features, such as:
• Low emissivity to inhibit heat radiation
• Predetermined size openings to block or to allow transmission of electromagnetic radiation above or below a certain threshold
• Openings arranged in a periodic or a non-periodic pattern
• Openings in the form of elongated slots
• Made from electrically conductive metallic, doped semiconductive, or dielectric material, such as silica-based glass, patterned by photolithography or electron-beam lithography and etched to form the openings
• Made from band gap materials such as photonic crystals
• A first layer that is deposited on rigid silicon or a flexible polymeric substrate (such as Teflon) using chemical or physical vapor deposition or other techniques
• Space between layers can be filled with low thermal conductivity materials such as silica aerogel particles, alumina, silica, or other suitable fibers
• Space between layers can be evacuated
In cold chains and in situations where refrigeration options are limited, these containers can be utilized to store and dispense:
• Vaccines that require an optimal temperature to maintain potency
• Oral medications in order to improve their shelf life
• Medications commonly used in developing regions of the world to treat life-threatening illnesses such as HIV, malaria, or hepatitis
• IV fluids that need to be kept at a certain temperature
• Blood or plasma substitutes
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Tissue Closure Techniques with the Use of Anchors
Technologies are provided for placing fiducial marks on the body to indicate the attachment points for anchors that are to be
used for tissue closure. Various techniques are provided, such as:
• A marking roller pen can be used to mark the location of surgical incision and attachment points of the anchors
• A tape dispenser can be used to dispense tape that has fiducial marks indicating the surgical plan
• Tools or instruments can include circuitry to receive inputs on the planned surgery and determine anchor placement
Technologies are also provided for using cannulas to deploy anchors within a fascia during endoscopic or laparoscopic
procedures. A cannula, such as a two-part trocar used in laparoscopy, can include longitudinal recesses that hold tissue
anchors on the exterior of the cannula. The trocar can be inserted into an incision and when the trocar is withdrawn it leaves
the anchors behind, which can then be used to close the incision.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Tracking Therapeutic Agent Regimens by Administering Taggants
Technologies are provided to monitor a patient’s compliance with therapy by administering taggants (such as non-toxic
dyes, fluorophores or contrast agents) having different pharmacokinetic profiles to the patient before, during or after
administration of a therapeutic agent, and measuring the concentrations of the taggants or their metabolic byproducts over
time. This technique can be used to estimate the time when a therapeutic agent was administered to a patient.
The therapeutic agent and the taggants can be administered by various methods, such as orally, transdermally or by
inhalation. Concentrations of the taggants can be detected non-invasively via ex vivo assays of expired breath, feces, saliva
and other samples or by in vivo retinal measurement.
Pharmacokinetic profiles of the taggants can determine the patient’s metabolic rate. For example, two taggants that have
different pharmacokinetic profiles can be administered to the patient at the same time as a therapeutic agent. The first
taggant can have an initial plasma concentration of 2 mg/L with a half-life of 6 hours; the second taggant can have half
of the initial plasma concentration (1 mg/L) and twice the half-life (12 hours). The taggants’ concentration can be used to
calculate the time since they were first administered. For example, if the plasma concentration of the first taggant is 0.9
mg/L, it can indicate that approximately 7 hours have passed since initial administration. Similarly, if the plasma concentration
of the second taggant is 0.75 mg/L, it can indicate that approximately 5 hours have passed since it was administered. The
average of the two, which is 6 hours, equates to the approximate time since the therapeutic agent was first administered.
Measurement of the taggants’ concentrations can be repeated over time to improve the estimate.
Half-lives of the taggants can be the same as, or more or less than that of the therapeutic agent. If the taggants are
administered before or after administration of the therapeutic agent, the time lag between the administration of the
therapeutic agent and the administration of the taggants can be taken into consideration.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Transmit Power Transdermally In and Out of a Living Body
Technologies are provided for developing systems that convert electric energy generated within a body into optical energy
and transmit the optical energy transdermally out of the body to power an external device. These systems can be used in
conjunction with power generation devices implanted within the body.
An optical power transmitter embedded in tissue, muscle, or bone can include:
• A power source, such as a battery, that stores electricity produced by an electricity generator
• An electrical-optical converter that receives electricity from the power source. The electrical-optical converter can be a light-emitting or laser diode that converts the electricity into optical power signals of selected wavelengths
• Circuitry that controls the distribution of electricity from the power source to the electrical-optical converter and the operation of the electrical-optical converter. The control circuitry can be pre-programmed to transmit optical power signals during specific times of the day
• A beam-steering device (such as a diffraction grating) that selectively steers optical power signals from the electrical-
optical converter transdermally out of the body
The transmitter components can be fitted and enclosed in a biocompatible protective packaging within the living tissue. The
external device can include an electrical-optical converter (such as a photodiode) that has an aperture to receive the optical
power signals; these signals can be strong enough to enable the external device to be located remotely.
Technologies are also provided for developing systems that locate implanted devices and transmit external power
transdermally to the implanted devices. Implanted devices can include electrical-optical converters that receive optical power
signals from an external device, such as a hand-held device with a power source, and convert the optical power signals into
electricity. Prior to transmitting the optical power signals, the external device can transmit optical signals that are reflected
by retroreflectors located near the electrical-optical converters, thereby indicating the location of the electrical-optical
converters.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Tubular Nanostructure Compositions Targeting Cell Membranes
Technologies are provided for developing tubular nanostructures that can enter the lipid bilayer membrane of a target cell
in a patient and cause cell death by disrupting the cell membrane (e.g., forming a pore in the membrane). They can also
transport therapeutic compounds across the membrane.
The nanostructures can be made of hollow carbon, peptide, DNA, polymer, or other types of nanotubes with a length of
approximately 1 nm to 1500 nm and a diameter of approximately 0.5 nm to 5 nm. A nanostructure can be composite made
of multiple nanotubes with different lengths and diameters that are arranged in parallel or orthogonal forms; a composite
nanostructure can be used to create multiple pores in the cell membrane.
The tubular nanostructure can be configured with a hydrophobic surface region flanked by hydrophilic surface regions at each
end that are configured to form a pore in a lipid bilayer membrane. The tubular nanostructure can include at least one ligand
configured to bind one or more cognates on the lipid bilayer membrane. For example, single-wall carbon nanotubes that
are inherently hydrophobic can be treated with oxidation agents at both ends to add amines, polar amino acids, carboxylic
groups, or other hydrophilic elements on the ends.
The tubular nanostructure can be configured with a hydrophobic surface region configured to pass through the lipid bilayer
membrane of a cell and a hydrophobic surface region flanked by hydrophilic surface regions at each end that are configured
to form a pore in a lipid bilayer membrane of a cellular organelle. The tubular nanostructure can include at least one ligand
configured to bind one or more cognates on the membrane of the cellular organelle.
The hydrophilic ends can be masked to allow insertion of the tubular nanostructure into the cell membrane; once the
nanostructure has passed through the cell membrane, the mask is cleaved to allow retention of the nanostructure within the
cell membrane.
The tubular nanostructures can include:
• Therapeutic agents such as cytotoxic or antimicrobial agents to treat a variety of cancers or infections
• Ligands configured to target and bind to cognates or cell surface receptors on the cell membrane; ligands can also be therapeutic compounds that affect the cell structure or function
• Fluorescent or other types of markers to enable imaging of the target cells
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Utensils for Monitoring Food Content During Consumption
Technologies are provided for developing a utensil for portioning food and for measuring the amount and nutritional value of
each portion of the food. The cumulative values of food consumed by a user can be determined by summing the respective
measured values of each portion.
The utensil can be configured to determine quantitative variables such as mass or weight, and volume of each portion. The
utensil can have a strain gauge to measure the mass or weight of the food supported by the utensil (i.e., the portion) and a
density sensor to detect the density of the food; the volume of the portion can be calculated based on measured mass and
density.
The utensil can have enzymatic, chemical or other sensors and calorimeters to detect a variety of dietary information per
mass or volume such as the concentration of carbohydrates, fat, fiber, sugar, cholesterol, salt or vitamins. The utensil can have
sensors to determine the type of food, such as if it is a vegetable, fruit or meat; and sensors to determine the presence of
compounds in the food, including allergens, pathogens or pesticides. The utensil can be configured to read nutritional data
from a barcode associated with the food or receive data input from the user.
The utensil can have an LCD to display the detected information, can transmit the information to a remote device or can relay
the information to the user via audio or other sensory signals.
The utensil can be configured to show the comparison of the amount or nutritional values of the food ingested to target
values set by the user or a health care professional. These technologies can be used to develop utensils such as bowls, cups,
chopsticks, knives, forks, spoons or ladles that can help users keep track of their dietary goals or health regimens.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Vasculature and Lymphatic System Imaging and Ablation
Technologies are provided for developing an intravascular implantable device that detects and ablates abnormal cells (such as cancerous,
pathogenic or infectious cells) based on characteristic response of normal and abnormal cells to energy beams. Biological targets can be
identified based on differential scattering of light, where cells are illuminated with light and the interaction of cells with electromagnetic
energy is captured (by CCD or CMOS sensors), processed, and compared to light scattering properties of cells.
Cellular components of the blood can be identified and differentiated (normal vs abnormal) using a variety of techniques, including:
• Electrical impedance spectroscopy
• Infrared spectroscopy
• Acoustic imaging
• Thermal imaging
• Photo-thermal imaging
• Visible light absorption and refraction
• Auto-fluorescence
Once the abnormal cells are identified, they can be removed to a reservoir or ablated with irradiating light.
The implantable device can be configured as a hollow cylinder that can:
• Be inflated or deflated for placement or removal from the vessel lumen
• Be positioned in the lumen using retractable hoods
• Include energy sources, sensors, a detection and an ablation unit, a power source, control circuitry, and an external processor with which the implanted device can communicate wirelessly
As fluids and cells pass through the central core of the cylindrical device, the detection and ablation unit can analyze the interaction of the
initial emitted electromagnetic energy with the cell to determine if it is a normal or an abnormal cell. Once the cell is identified as abnormal,
a second energy beam of sufficient intensity can be emitted to ablate it.
Optionally, the implantable device can have a second cylindrical device placed downstream from the first cylindrical device, where the first
device can sense the abnormal cells and send a signal to the second device that ablates them. The signal sent from the first to the second
device can be timed to allow the abnormal cells to reach the second device.
The cylindrical devices can include an exit port that:
• Controls the flow of fluid through the device
• Closes to allow time for detection or ablation of abnormal cells
• Closes just enough to allow passage of small or normal cells while trapping larger or abnormal cells
• Can be opened and closed as directed externally by a physician
The implantable device can also be configured as a sleeve that encircles a vessel and scans the cells through the vessel wall. The sleeve can
include a constrictor band that is placed downstream and is wirelessly activated to constrict and trap the abnormal cells upon receipt of
a signal from a sensing unit that detects the abnormal cells. Optionally, the sleeve can have a reservoir to collect the abnormal cells via a
tube that is inserted in the vessel. The implantable device can also be configured as a sleeve with a shunt that pierces the blood vessel and
allows passage of fluid; energy emitting and sensing units can be attached to the inner wall of the shunt.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Verification of Patient Treatment Procedure and Data Management
Technologies are provided to verify that a procedure being performed on a patient is intended for the patient. Matching
interfaces, one that holds patient identification information and is attached to the patient, and another attached to a device
that performs the procedure, can be used to verify that the patient is the intended recipient of the procedure. The interfaces
can include a variety of configurations, such as:
• Two templates with complementary patterns that match once the two templates are physically joined together (may require physical engagement throughout the procedure as a safety mechanism); the matching templates can be configured with different shapes, patterns, projections, recesses, matrices, contours, etc.
• Two interface modules that communicate via matching signals for verification
Templates and interface modules can be integral to a patient identity tag.
Once the procedure is performed, confirmation can be transmitted immediately, automatically or via user activation, to the
patient record. Parameters related to procedures can be updated as new data is captured in the patient’s records.
Other pertinent information captured by sensors can be transmitted and stored. The system can also be configured to
monitor patient compliance with certain restricted or monitored behaviors or activities such as alcohol consumption or
physical exercise.
These technologies can be implemented in healthcare facilities or at home (home health) to maintain patient records and to
ensure that patients are receiving treatments and procedures that are intended for them.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
Wireless ICU
Technologies are provided for developing wireless systems that acquire and transmit information about patients. The system
can include sensors that can capture physiologic information such as pulse rate, blood pressure, blood gas information,
temperature, etc., and wirelessly transmit the information to a processing component that can receive, process and monitor
information from several patients. Sensors can identify patients by their name, social security number, level of care, or by their
treating physician or nurse. Patients can also be identified by biometrics such as:
• Retina scan
• Fingerprints
• Facial recognition
• Genetic expression
• Genetic content
• Unique heart rhythm
• Unique blood count
Data from the sensors such as a unique identifier, manufacturer’s information, and calibration log information can also be
transmitted.
The system can send other signals and information, such as:
• Auditory or visual signals to alert the nurse
• Accounting information (such as billing information) to the hospital or an insurance agency
• Patient’s location information to a doctor or nurse
• Messages to patient’s emergency contact
These technologies can be utilized to develop wireless systems for intensive care, operating rooms, emergency rooms or
other departments in the hospital where patients need to be monitored closely.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
X-Ray Imager Based on Compton Scattering
Methods and systems are provided to develop Compton-scattered X-ray images utilizing X-rays that are reflected or
redirected as they pass through soft tissue, instead of utilizing X-rays that are transmitted through the soft tissue. The result
can be a clearer image than conventional techniques with a simultaneous reduction in radiation exposure required to develop
the image as well as a reduction in the size of the imager itself, ultimately enhancing portability. In commercial application,
the imager could be used for examining conditions such as illnesses, injuries, melanomas, cancers, tumors, bone conditions,
tissue conditions, ligament or tendon conditions, blood vessel locations, heart conditions, burns, etc; and for imaging during
ablation and cauterization procedures.
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
X-Ray Imager Based on X-Ray Fluorescence
Methods and systems are provided to develop an X-ray fluorescence imager that generates polychromatic images, which
enhances the richness of the image and its readability, compared to conventional computer tomography (CT) scans and
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that typically yield black, white and grayscale images. It also utilizes lower energy levels
since the energy applied only needs to be sufficient enough to cause fluorescence versus that required to transmit through
the body of a patient. Reduced energy requirements can lead to a more portable imager that is useful in remote locations. In
commercial applications, the X-ray fluorescence imager can detect aberrations such as melanomas, cancers, abscess, arterial
plaques, blood impurities, implants, inserts, etc; and it can also differentiate them from surrounding matter based on the
composition of the elements, chemicals, compounds, or biological materials. The imager can be used to:
• Diagnose a variety of diseases
• Conduct research on drug dosing techniques
• Provide information on long-term wear and other characteristics of surgical implants
• Read barcodes physically coded on implants
• Substitute for autopsies or invasive biopsies as well as imaging during surgery
Current stage of invention:
IV Heath Technology Inventions
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2012 Intellectual
Ventures Management, LLC (IV). All rights reserved.
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Inventions