Abstract: An electronic library which comprises a user interface such as a computer screen, a speaker, a mouse and/or a keyboard; a processor for handling communication with the user and for responding to user requests; and a data store. The data store maintains scanned segments of video data, audio data, or both, and translated replicas of the scanned segments. Searching for specific data is performed by perusing through the translated replicas, but the information that is provided to the user is primarily the scanned segments themselves. The translated versions contain the immediately translatable version of the displayable information and processed information that forms various aggregations of the displayable information. This processing imposes a syntactically logical structure on the displayable information.

Abstract: An exercise device is intended for strengthening a user's targeted muscle, wherein the user may manipulate the device without the necessity of a forceful grip that employs the user's conjunctive muscles. The device includes a housing having a pair of diametrically-opposed portions. The housing has an opening formed therein defined by the walls of the device. A weight is disposed in the housing. A nipple and hole arrangement is provided for keying the portions of the housing together. Ventilation slots and an internal cut-out are provided for improving air flow through the device, so as to avoid the build-up of heat therein.

Abstract: A portable exercise device for strengthening abdominal muscles is provided which can be operated by an individual exercising on a mattress and box spring, or the like combinaton, without requiring additional assistance during the exercise routine. The device may be easily unfolded for use, and following use, it may be refolded and conveniently stored. The device at one end is folded for securement between the mattress and the box spring, and unfolds and overlays the upper portion of the mattress for use by the individual. The device is adapted to fold and conform with the user's bent ankles, knees and hips, and these folds correspond to the fold lines for folding and unfolding the device. Foot securement means are employed to stabilize the user's feet, and this eliminates the need for assistance during the exercise program.

Abstract: The invention discloses a surgical filament having a coating comprising a compound of the formula: ##STR1## wherein x is at least 2, R' is selected from the group consisting of an alkaline-earth metal ion or radical, and R" is an alkyl group having at least 12 carbon atoms in the backbone. In a specific embodiment, the surgical filament is a bioabsorbable suture or ligature manufactured from a polymer containing at least one glycolic acid ester linkage.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fully implanted mechanical penile erection device. Two or more cylindrical segments lock into an axially aligned position. The locking is accomplished by the action of a spring plunger pressing a flat rider against the surface of an adjacent segment or a dumbbell shaped connector.

Abstract: This invention relates to endo-prosthetic knee joint devices.A knee prosthesis according to the invention comprises a femoral component for attachment to the femur and having a bearing surface including a first inferior curved portion and a second posterior portion contiguous with and of relatively lesser curvature than said first portion, a tibial component for attachment to the tibia and having a concave bearing surface and a meniscal component to lie between the femoral and tibial components and having bearing surfaces complementary to said first portion of the bearing surface of the femoral component and to the bearing surface of the tibial component.

Abstract: A femoral hip joint replacement comprises a hollow metal cap, approximating the normal femoral head size, secured to a tri-flanged insert adapted to be located within the femoral shaft and between remaining upstanding portions of the remodeled femoral head. The cap is secured to or integral with the upper surface of the insert head and rests upon the superior portion of the remodeled femoral head which has been cut downwardly at an angle of approximately 23 degrees in relation to a plane normal to the vertical axis of the femoral shaft. The sides and end of the femoral head are also resected to provide flat faces, and the upper surface of the remodeled femoral head also preferably angles upwardly front-to-back at an angle of approximately seven degrees, these angles imparting superior load-bearing characteristics to the structure in operation.

Abstract: A connector for an ambulatory dialysis system which effectively prevents peritoneal infections such as peritonitis. The connector is comprised of a cylinder containing a disinfecting solution which continuously bathes the male and female connectors of a tube during use. A highly absorbent material is packed in the cylinder and saturated with a disinfectant and bathes the male and female connectors when connection is made and continually bathes them during use. A connection is provided by a male fitting on the end of a tube connected to a bag of dialysate fluid or an abdominal tube which may be inserted into the female connector on an opposing tube. Male connector is inserted into the female connector through the cylinder containing the absorbent material saturated with the disinfectant. The absorbent material is packed such that the male connector contacts the absorbent material during insertion to disinfect the opposing ends simultaneously while connection is being made.

Abstract: There is disclosed a portable cervical collar formed of an elongated band of stiff, flexible sheet material which can be formed into a cylindrical collar. The collar includes a chin support brace which is a generally C-shaped flat sheet that can be attached with its opposite ends secured to opposite sides of the formed collar thereby forming a concave, forwardly projecting support shelf to immobilize the wearer's chin. The collar is intended as a portable, compact collar for field use by paramedics and the like during transportation and initial examination of a patient.