Abstract: Primers for cyanoacrylate adhesives which are based on compounds having multiple amine groups thereon (“multi-amines”) which have at least three secondary or tertiary amine groups, at least one of which is a tertiary amine group. The multi-amine compounds are characterized by having thereon at least three terminal and/or pendant aliphatic hydrocarbon groups of at least 4 carbon atoms in length. Such primers give substantially improved bond strengths to cyanoacrylate adhesive bonded assemblies comprising a polyolefin substrate such as high density polyethylene, LDPE or polypropylene. The multi-amine may have a cascade, dendrimer, hyperbranched or comb-like structure.

Abstract: An evaluation system for use in conjunction with a body implantable body stimulator, the body stimulator including a stimulation delivering and depolarization sensing lead system. An input connects a digitizer to the lead system, the digitizer digitizing depolarization signals sensed by the lead system. A computing system identifies excursions in the digitized depolarization signals and evaluates identified excursions in accordance with preselected merit criteria. An output gives an indication of at least that excursion having the highest merit that satisfies said merit criteria.

Abstract: Septum retaining means for an implantable tubular percutaneous device. The retaining means is a tubular stem insert having an integral pressure plate across an intermediate portion thereof. A modified septum fits into the insert below the pressure plate. Tabs extending outwardly from the upper edge of the insert cooperate with a grooved portion of a body exterior cavity in the T-stem to provide means for holding the insert in the T-stem cavity. Notches in the walls of the insert on either side of the tabs allow the wall portions containing the tabs to be flexed inwardly so as to permit the insert to be passed into and out of the T-stem. The insert is designed to permit a forceps or other crimping tool to obtain access to the tab containing insert wall portions for removal of the insert and septum.

Abstract: A lead for a body implantable electrical stimulation system including at least one electrical conductor and electrical insulation which together define a flexible lead body. A stiffening system, in the form of a member coiled about a portion of the lead body, is provided to enhance the ability of that lead body portion to maintain its orientation in the presence of external forces, including forces imparted to the lead by movement of the body as well as gravity. Preferably, the coiled member is a multifilar member and, in a preferred embodiment, is a close wound trifilar member. The desired lead body orientation may be a straight or curved configuration and, in the latter instance, the lead body may be provided with a lumen such that the curve is extended or straightened on insertion of a stylet of sufficient stiffness.

Abstract: An encoder disc comprised of two or more stainless steel laminations, at least one of which is thinner than the others for the purpose of providing more accurately sized openings in the disc.

Abstract: A method of leak testing hermetic enclosures having a penetrable, self-sealing septum communicating with the interior thereof.Test gas is introduced into the enclosure by means of a hypodermic needle inserted through the septum and then withdrawn. Subsequent monitoring of the enclosure for presence of any escaping test gas confirms if leakage is occurring.

Abstract: Method of preparing lithium anodes contacted with organic materials prior to association of the anode with a cathode material wherein the contacted anode is first subjected to a heat treatment. Upon incorporation of the improved anode into an electrochemical battery or cell and association of the heat treated anode with a suitable cathode material, the cell may be discharged under controlled conditions for a short time prior to its usual "burn-in" discharge.