Abstract:
The invention provides a targeting system used to direct a measuring system to a targeted sample site or volume. The targeting system increases analyte estimation performance by increasing precision and accuracy of sampling and/or by targeting an analyte rich tissue volume.
Abstract:
An optical sampling interface system is disclosed that minimizes and compensates for errors that result from sampling variations and measurement site state fluctuations. Embodiments of the invention use a guide that does at least one of, induce the formation of a tissue meniscus, minimize interference due to surface irregularities, control variation in the volume of tissue sampled, use a two-part guide system, use a guide that controls rotation of a sample probe and allows z-axis movement of the probe, use a separate base module and sample module in conjunction with a guide, and use a guide that controls rotation. Optional components include an occlusive element and a coupling fluid.
Abstract:
A near-infrared spectrometer-based analyzer attaches continuously or semicontinuously to a human subject and is used to collect spectral measurements of a tissue sample. The spectral readings are used to estimate a biological parameter in the sampled tissue noninvasively, such as glucose concentration. The preferred apparatus is a near-infrared analyzer that includes a base module and a sample module connected together with a communication bundle. The base module contains the bulk of the analyzer, such as a spectrograph and a central processing unit with an algorithm used for converting the optical signal into a glucose concentration. The sample module is typically in a smaller module that interfaces to a tissue sample. The sample module is preferably handheld and provides minimal sampling distortion due to heat or pressure.
Abstract:
The invention provides an adaptive mount for use in coupling a noninvasive analyte property analyzer to a living tissue sample site. The adaptive mount increases precision and accuracy of sampling by relieving stress and strain on a sample prior to and/or during sampling, which results in noninvasive analyte property estimations with corresponding performance enhancement.
Abstract:
The invention provides a method of determining an individual's glucose metabolism sensitivity based upon the shape of a glucose profile in response to a stimulus, such as a caloric challenge. The sensitivity of an individual may be used to project a glucose response profile or to achieve a targeted response in the individual's blood glucose concentrations in response to a stimulus, such as medication, exercise, or caloric intake. An actual glucose response to a stimulus is determined using parameters that measure the shape of a glucose profile resulting from the stimulus. The glucose response provides rapid feedback of an individual's diabetic state.
Abstract:
A method of screening for disorders of glucose metabolism such as impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes allows prevention, or early detection and treatment of diabetic complications such as cardiovascular disease, retinopathy, and other disorders of the major organs and systems. A mathematical algorithm evaluates the shape of a subjects’s glucose profile and classifies the profile into one of several predefined clusters, each cluster corresponding either to a normal condition or one of several abnormal conditions. The series of blood glucose values making up the glucose tolerance curve may be measured using any glucose analyzer including: invasive, minimally invasive and noninvasive types. The method is executed on a processing device programmed to perform the steps of the method. Depending on the outcome of the screening, a subject may be provided with additional information concerning their condition and/or counseled to consult further with their health care provider.
Abstract:
The invention involves a kit for use in conjunction with a near-infrared, noninvasive glucose concentration analyzer. The preferred kit contains a set of elements used in preparation of a sample site and/or for use in a sampling process. The invention comprises a kit that includes any of a guide, a plug, an adhesive, an alignment tool, a cleaner, contact fluid, and a package for use in combination with a noninvasive glucose concentration analyzer.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus are provided for noninvasive sampling. More particularly, the method and apparatus relate to control of motion of an optical sample probe interface relative to a tissue sample site. A dynamic probe interface, is used to collect spectra of a targeted sample, control positioning of the sample probe relative to the tissue sample in terms of at least one of x-, y-, and z-axes, and/or control of sample tissue displacement to minimize spectral variations resulting from the sampling process and increase analyte property estimation precision and accuracy.
Abstract:
A magnetic field based mechanical apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus is based on coupled attracting or opposing magnets in conjunction with the insertion or removal of a magnetic field modifier. In the preferred embodiment, two repelling magnets are drawn together with the insertion of a magnetic field modifier. The field modifier may be another magnet having an opposing pole. Removal of the field modifier returns the forces to their original states. This oscillating motion may be driven with a low energy and/or small power supply. The resulting motion of the opposing magnets can drive mechanical system such as a linear, gear, ratchet, or reciprocating drive.
Abstract:
Methods for calibrating noninvasive or implantable glucose analyzers utilize either alternative invasive glucose determinations or noninvasive glucose determinations for calibrating noninvasive or implantable glucose analyzers. Use of an alternative invasive or noninvasive glucose determination in the calibration allows minimization of errors due to sampling methodology, and spatial and temporal variation that are built into the calibration model. An additional method uses statistical correlations between noninvasive and alternative invasive glucose determinations and traditional invasive glucose determinations to adjust noninvasive or alternative invasive glucose concentrations to traditional invasive glucose concentrations. The methods provide a means for calibrating on the basis of glucose determinations that reflect the matrix observed and the variable measured by the analyzer more closely. A glucose analyzer couples an invasive fingerstick meter to a noninvasive glucose analyzer for calibration, validation, adaptation, and safety check of the calibration model embodied in the noninvasive analyzer.