Abstract: An alignment button includes cannula and radiopaque markers exactly mimicing corresponding elements in a stereotaxic array plug. The stereotaxic array plug is installed in an opening in the skull and the scalp is closed over it. The alignment button is sutured in place with its cannula exactly aligned with corresponding cannula in the stereotaxic array plug. Alignment is performed using medical imaging capable of showing simultaneously the radiopaque marker in both elements. In one embodiment of the invention, jaws protrude inward into the cannula to stabilize a medical device inserted therethrough. In a further embodiment of the invention, the alignment button is affixed over soft tissue without being accompanied by a stereotaxic array plug.

Abstract: A stereotaxic catheter includes at least one lumen parallel to an axis thereof. The lumen includes a staff having disposed thereon or therein a predetermined number of spaced-apart markings of a radiopaque material. In a preferred embodiment, the markings are equidistantly spaced circumferential bands of a material having a large X-ray signature. The lumen containing the staff is preferably sealed at both ends and is most preferably sealed in close adjacency to each end of the staff whereby the staff is retained in a stable and predictable positional relationship to the remainder of the catheter.

Abstract: A variable drag and buoyancy kickboard for a swimmer comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a plurality of pairs of hand grasping locations. The second portion extends from a lateral edge of the first portion. The first portion defines a first planar surface and the second portion defines a second planar surface. The first and second planar surfaces form an obtuse angle. The first and second portions having a periphery upon which the hand grasping locations are disposed. Each pair of hand grasping locations are laterally opposite each other on the periphery. Grasping different pairs of hand grasping locations varies the flow characteristics of the kickboard by varying its position in the water. Thus, the drag of the kickboard may be varied.

Abstract: A thermistor assembly for use in an environment of microwave radiation employs an interface metallic layer on the surface of a plastic insulation its conductors and a metal foil wrapped upon the thermistor head. The metal foil overlaps the interface metallic layer on the conductors. A surface metallic layer is electroplated on both the interface metallic layer and the metal foil to unite both into a single electrically conducting layer effective to exclude microwave radiation from the interior thereof and thus to avoid direct microwave heating of the thermistor or the electrical conductors in the vicinity of the thermistor.

Abstract: A multi-lumen catheter that contains two or more independent coaxial sensing elements which can be used for measuring and recording temperature over a wide area at the insertion site. In addition, this catheter can be used for withdrawing blood at its distal port. When a microwave probe is inserted into the proximal lumen and positioned within the catheter, it allows for accurate placement of the microwave field within the area which is temperature monitored.

Abstract: There is disclosed a surgical stereotaxic array plug of biocompatible material having an outer periphery adapted to be secured in a complementary threaded opening provided in the skull with bores traversing the plug for receiving and positioning therapeutic apparatus and fluid dispensing devices.

Abstract: A treatment regime is described for multiple sclerosis comprising transcutaneous neuro-stimulation (TNS) and oral administration of d-phenylalanine. The d-phenylalanine prolongs the improvement from the TNS.