Abstract: A precision forward-looking image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic surgical probe and needle insert for microsurgery in support of imagery, neurology, neurosurgical procedures, and ophthalmic surgical applications comprising an introducer needle (stylet), a fiber carrier, a therapeutic conduit, and a spirographic method for scanning a target and associated algorithms to create and render a reconstructed image for display to a physician in real-time or near real-time. The probe implements Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to provide high-resolution extended imagery of an intended therapeutic or target tissue. A separate therapeutic conduit provides surgical access for therapeutic devices such as a cutting or ablation laser, an RF electrode for locally heating tissue, a lumen for local injection of neurolytics/paralytics, placement of electrodes for neuromodulation, and deployment of a micro-endoscopic imaging tool. A third working channel supports the delivery of neurolytic and other fluids.

Abstract: A spinal nerve tissue ablation apparatus includes a stylet needle with a distal end having a rounded blunt tip sufficiently sharp to penetrate tissue but sufficiently blunt to avoid impinging on bony surfaces of spinal vertebra. The apparatus includes an energy delivery device having at least a first electrode and a second electrode. Each electrode has a tissue piercing distal end and is positionable in the stylet as the stylet is advanced through tissue. The first and second electrodes are deployable with curvature from the stylet. The stylet includes rotational means for orienting the first and second electrodes and directing the extension according to the curvature of the electrodes. The stylet further includes an optical imaging module to provide continual progressive feedback of ablation surface development. The apparatus further includes an ultra-wide band radio frequency scanning device capable of accurately determining the location of the electrodes within the spinal structure.

Abstract: A portable lifting apparatus for lifting and transferring of heavy objects. The lifting apparatus having a load-supporting platform which can be moved both vertically and rotated about the vertical axis of an upwardly extending lifting column. The lifting apparatus further includes an outrigger linkage coupled to the lifting column and is provided with a load support coupled to a retractable pulley. The lifting column is attached to a base and is normally prevented from rotating relative thereto.

Abstract: A vinyl siding panel which includes a top lock, a medial main body portion, a bottom lock, and a nailing hem adjacent the top lock comprises a channel with nail apertures in the channel base for receiving siding nails. The channel has an open end which has a dimension smaller than the nail head diameter so that the nail head bears against shoulders or bearing surfaces formed adjacent the channel. The channel can be of rectangular or tapered cross-section in order to space the nail head away from the nail apertures and thereby eliminate stress concentrations at the apertures. The lock structures are generally complementary in shape so that they interlock with other siding panels of like construction. The panel can be reinforced along its length for added rigidity. One area of reinforcement is the channel nailing hem which can be reinforced by extruding additional material to form the channel or by providing an elongated trough-like insert nested within the channel.

Abstract: A plastic siding panel which includes an upper connector, a medial main portion, and a lower connector. The connectors are complementary in shape so that they interlock with other siding panels of like construction. At least one of the connectors include a strip of high strength material for rigidifying the siding panel. The siding panels are fabricated by extruding a monolithic, substantially planar sheet composed of three different materials. Two of the materials are formed as layers which extend over the entire sheet. The third material is a high strength material adapted to rigidify the siding panel. After extrusion, the sheet is formed into a siding panel having a main portion, an upper connection and a lower connection.