• Aspect Medical Systems (Norwood, Massachusetts) updated the status of the Biomarkers for Rapid Identification of Treatment Effectiveness (BRITE) major depression trial scheduled for completion by the end of 1Q07. The goal of the study is to determine the accuracy of using Aspect’s brain assessment technology to predict the effectiveness of antidepressant medications. The study will also attempt to determine an effective alternative treatment for subjects who show a poor response to a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and to expand the company’s database to allow further optimization of Aspect’s technology. Aspect Medical Systems is a brain monitoring technology company. The company says its bispectral index technology has been used to assess more than 17.4 million patients.

• Cook Medical (Bloomington, Indiana) reported the development of the Cook EchoTip Echogenic Needle to enhance the needle’s appearance during ultrasound imaging. Through enhanced tip visibility under ultrasound imaging, these needles improve the success of venous access on the first attempt, thereby reducing multiple punctures. This process improves a caregiver’s ability to identify the exact ‘tip’ location of a needle and therefore, successfully access small targets. The needles are now available with Cook central venous catheter and Thai-Quick Chest Tube sets and trays. Cook is a privately held company specializing in minimally invasive medical device technology for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

• Cordis Endovascular (Miami, Florida) reported the launch of two products in the treatment of blocked lower-leg arteries: the XP CTO Catheter and the Re-Entry Catheter. These devices safely place guidewires in narrowed or blocked arteries during minimally invasive procedures that remove blockages and re-establish blood flow. Cordis Endovascular is a recognized leader in endovascular research and development. It has the resources to make breakthrough treatments possible along with the reputation for delivering trusted, quality products and value that is expected by our customers. Cordis Endovascular, a division of Cordis, supplies interventional and diagnostic products including nitinol and stainless steel stents, vena cava filters, balloon catheters and accessories.