Abstract: A microwave antenna suitable for cardiac ablation, in particular for catheter ablation, and a method for making such an antenna. The antenna comprises a transmission line having an inner conductor, an outer conductor, and a dielectric insulator to provide insulation between the inner and outer conductors. An energy emitting antenna element is located at the distal end of the transmission line. The antenna element has an inner conductor which is electrically coupled to the inner conductor of the transmission line, and, around the inner conductor, a sheath of dielectric insulator continuous with the insulator of the transmission line. At its distal end, a hollow metallic cap is electrically connected to the inner conductor, surrounding a length of the insulator.

Abstract: Reticulated vitrified carbon compositions which contain particles of Cu, Sn, Zn, Pb, Ni, Fe, or alloys or mixtures thereof dispersed therein and reticulated vitreous carbon compositions wherein some or all of said metal or alloy particles have been converted into salts or mixtures of salts thereof. Processes for the preparation of such compositions.

Abstract: A flow-frame for forming a subassembly; said sub-assembly comprising a bipolar electrode and an ion-selective membrane mounted on said flow-frame and wherein said sub-assembly may be stacked together with other such subassemblies to create an array of electrochemical cells; wherein said flow-frame is formed from an electrically insulating material and comprises at least four manifold-defining portions which also define pathways for the passage of the anolyte/catholyte. Such pathway may define a labyrinthine path which may be spiral in shape between the manifold and the chamber entry/exit port.

Abstract: A method of fabricating an electrochemical or galvanic cell comprising a plurality of electrochemical components, which electrochemical components are joined together in a stack, which method comprises: i) providing a first component formed from a deformable polymeric material with at least one substantially continuous groove comprising a female opening having a width of "w" and a depth of "h"; ii) providing a second component with at least one substantially continuous upstand having a width of >"w" and a height of <"h"; iii) pressing the first and second components together in order to provide an integral seal between the upstand on the second component and the opening in the first component, with the seal between the parts being provided by sealing engagement of the sides of the upstand with the sides of the openings; and iv) joining a plurality of first and second components together to form a stack.