Abstract: A computer-implemented Pain Management Advisor (PMA) based on an interactive knowledge-based expert system. The PMA facilitates the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic pain. The PMA system includes three key components: a knowledge-based component for use by the primary care providers; an inductive learning component and case-based reasoning technology for use by the chronic pain patient; and a third component used by primary care providers to consult with pain specialists and to update/modify pain management algorithms.

Abstract: There is disclosed a nontracking solar energy concentrator which has a plurality of parallel flow channels receiving a heat exchange medium for absorption of incident solar energy. The solar energy is concentrated by a superimposed cylindrical Fresnel lens which directs a concentrated beam of incident solar energy to selected ones of the plurality of flow channels. The flow channels discharge into an outlet cross header through thermostatically controlled valves. Each valve includes a spring-biased valve closure member having a valve stem that extends toward the displacement member of a thermostatic actuator, but separated therefrom by an adjustably-fixed, spaced interval to provide a dead band in the temperature response of the valve. The valves are biased to a normally closed position and are opened by response of the thermostatic actuator which is supported in the respective flow channel of the concentrator.