Abstract: Orthopedic casts which comprise an elastically deformed support which is held in its elastically deformed state by a solid casting composition. After the cast has been placed around a patient's limb, it is heated to soften the casting composition, thus permitting recovery of the cast into conforming contact with the limb. The support can for example be a fabric knitted from elastomeric fibers and glass fiber yarns. The casting composition can for example comprise polycaprolactone and/or a side chain crystallizable polymer, which melts at 45.degree.-60.degree. C. A padded liner can be placed between the cast and the limb. Recovery of the cast is preferably carried out by means of a hot air gun.

Abstract: A fitting suitable for coupling a plastic pipe to an externally threaded metal element, such as a sprinkler head, comprises a coupling, an external, metallic reinforcing collar on the coupling, an internally threaded insert in the coupling, and an O-ring. The collar is shaped to prevent rotation, and is held in place by a lip on the insert. The O-ring is held in a chamfered recess on the external surface of the insert.