Abstract: An intraoperative imaging system combines a gamma probe and an ultrasound probe. The probes are linked to provide co-registration of gamma radiation detected by the gamma probe with an image acquired by the ultrasound probe. The gamma probe has a converging collimator made of a metal block having a plurality of channels therein, which converge from an output face toward an input face. Each channel extends between and opens out at the faces such that openings at the input face have smaller cross-sectional areas than openings at the output face so that each channel tapers inwardly from the output face to the input face. The collimator has an external focal point distant from the input face. The system improves identification and localization of cancerous cells, facilitating more accurate biopsy data and more complete surgical resection. The gamma probe increases sensitivity, while maintaining spatial resolution, and increasing depth of view.

Abstract: A bone cement mold for a bone cement spacer, the bone cement mold including: a first mold component defining a first cavity shaped to form at least a majority of a head portion of the spacer; a second mold component defining a second cavity shaped to form a first part of a stem portion of the spacer; a third mold component defining a third cavity shaped to form a second part of the stem portion of the spacer; the second mold component and the third mold component combining to define a cavity shaped to form at least a majority of the stem portion; an abutting combination of the first mold component, second mold component, and third component defining a communicative cavity shaped to form the head portion integrally connected with the stem portion. Bone cement spacers formed from the bone cement mold, and computer methods and systems for selecting and operating the bone cement mold are also described.

Abstract: An intraoperative imaging system combines a gamma probe and an ultrasound probe. The probes are linked to provide co-registration of gamma radiation detected by the gamma probe with an image acquired by the ultrasound probe. The gamma probe has a converging collimator made of a metal block having a plurality of channels therein, which converge from an output face toward an input face. Each channel extends between and opens out at the faces such that openings at the input face have smaller cross-sectional areas than openings at the output face so that each channel tapers inwardly from the output face to the input face. The collimator has an external focal point distant from the input face. The system improves identification and localization of cancerous cells, facilitating more accurate biopsy data and more complete surgical resection. The gamma probe increases sensitivity, while maintaining spatial resolution, and increasing depth of view.

Abstract: A computing system for use in a computer network is provided. The computing system includes a main software application for providing bi-directional data sharing across directories, databases and applications on the computer network. The main software application works, at least in part, in response to XML events. The computing system also includes a data store that can send one or more XML documents back and forth to a transformation engine, the XML documents including XML events. The transformation engine is provided for taking the XML documents and applying the XML documents against an XSL style sheet or an XSL transformation to transform the XML events into a different type of event for a controlled application or service.

Abstract: A computing system for use in a computer network is provided. The computing system includes a main software application for providing bi-directional data sharing across directories, databases and applications on the computer network. The main software application works, at least in part, in response to XML events. The computing system also includes a data store that can send one or more XML documents back and forth to a transformation engine, the XML documents including XML events. The transformation engine is provided for taking the XML documents and applying the XML documents against an XSL style sheet or an XSL transformation to transform the XML events into a different type of event for a controlled application or service.

Abstract: Apparatus for periodically drawing accumulated sludge (12) from a settlement tank (10) includes a hydraulically powered ram type positive displacement pump (14), operation thereof being controlled automatically in a timed or other sequence in response to signals derived from a pressure transducer (34), conveniently in the hydraulic supply line (24), said signals being a function of the pressure exerted by the pump ram (22) in operation and hence the density or other properties of the material being handled by the pump, a higher pressure showing the presence of sludge and a lower pressure its absence.

Abstract: Dosing apparatus for adding a metered quantity of liquid additive to slurry or other flowable material handled by a ram-type positive displacement main pump (10) includes a positive displacement metering pump (32) whose outlet (44) connects into a material carrying portion of the main pump e.g. its inlet (22). The metering pump is driven by a rocking lever (48) connecting it to the main pump ram (14) through adjustment means comprising a lead screw (62) along an arm (50) of the lever for selectively shifting a slide block (68) linked to the metering pump piston rod (42); the slide block being secured against movement on the lever arm once adjustment has been effected by clamping means (74).