Abstract: The present invention provides a ?-pyrone compound for use as an insecticide. The ?-pyrone is of the general Formula (1): wherein: R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently selected from an optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl, preferably C1-C6 alkyl, more preferably C1-C2 alkyl; H; —COOH; —OH; —OCH3 or —R5(CH2)nR6R7CH3; R5, R6, and R7 are each independently selected from an optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl, preferably C1-C6 alkyl, more preferably C1-C2 alkyl; —C?O; —COO—, N, S or O; and n is 1 to 18, a salt, solvate, dimer or isomer thereof. Other embodiments of the invention define use of the ?-pyrone compounds, insecticidal composition comprising the compound thereof and commercial embodiments include kits for on-the-shelf sale.

Abstract: A pneumocardial function monitor includes a carrier configured to be mounted about at least a part of a trunk of a body of a subject. A sensing arrangement is mounted on the carrier, the sensing arrangement including at least one element for monitoring changes in volume of the part of the subject's body. A signal processing module is in communication with the sensing arrangement for processing signals output from the sensing arrangement, the signal processing module having at least one output for outputting a signal related to respiratory function and/or cardiac function.