Abstract: Spasms in flexor and extensor muscles such as calf muscles are alleviated by topically administering to the surface of the adjacent skin a nitrite vasodilator agent, such as glyceryl trinitrate, in a suitable carrier.

Abstract: A cassette constructed to serve as a film holder for X-ray film or the like. The cassette is a rectangular container or box having a hinged cover, hinged by way of a piano type hinge and having a catch member opposite the hinge for holding the cover in closed position. A light trap is provided around the peripheral edges of the box and cover to make the container light tight. Preferably the hinge and catch members are fabricated from continuous metal strips.

Abstract: An improved gas operated firearm utilizing a metering device positioned for regulating the flow of gas from the barrel of the firearm to a piston which operates the action of the firearm. The metering device consists of a metering plug which has an annular rib where the plug is inserted into a cylinder which communicates with the piston which operates the action of the firearm. The area of the gas flow opening between the rib of the metering plug and the bore of the cylinder is thus selectable to one of the flow of gases. The metering plug may also have a plurality of flats on its surface of different dimensions and the metering plug is adjustable to selected positions for varying the degree of restriction posed to gases passing beteween the plug and the bore of the cylinder.

Abstract: A pneumatically driven device which in the exemplary form of the invention is an air tool driven by pistons. In the exemplary form there are two pistons having racks which drive the reciprocatable shoe through pinion gears. One piston drives in each direction. Each piston at the end opposite the driven end has an annular groove in it with a sealing ring with ports for communicating air to the area behind the ring for pushing it out against the inside surface of the cylinder. During a piston stroke at this end of the piston air is compressed to provide a cushioning and braking effect which improves the overall operation, and avoids excessive wear.

Abstract: An improved thermopile construction particularly adapted for use as an electric generator for producing a signalin response to heat from a pilot flame. Groups of elongated elements of dissimilar metals are assembled or arrayed in a circle within a metal sleeve to produce a pilot generator. The first group of elements is arrayed against the inside wall of the metal sleeve and the second group of elements is assembled radially inwardly from the first group. Respective ends of the elements of the first group and the second group are joined with the opposite end of the respective end of the element of the second group being joined to the opposite end of the next adjacent element of the first group. Individual elements of each group have a cross-sectional configuration to provide for optimum heat transfer between the sleeve and elements of the first group and to provide for assembly of the elements of the second group in a circle of smaller diameter.

Abstract: A universal floating tool holder adapted for floatingly holding tools and particularly adapted for holding a tap for a tapping tool. The toolholder embodies telescoping bodies with a clutch in between the two bodies. Also between the telescoping bodies there are provided resilient means preferably in the form of O-rings. Provision is made for a limited amount of relative axial movement or displacement between the two bodies sufficient for clutch disengagemeent. The resilient means between the two bodies allows for relative radial or lateral float or displacement of one body relative to the other. The outer telescoping body holds the tool which may be attached in a chuck.