Abstract: An electrode useful for generating or receiving electrical signals generally comprises a base and more than one dome-like protuberance on an exterior surface of the base. The electrodes can be utilized in connection with various probe applications. For example, the electrodes can be utilized with an esophageal probe for invasively monitoring cardiac functions, including the ECG or cardiac output of a patient. To further minimize the differences in voltage potential as may be caused by electrolytes present at the point of contact, a gold-plated layer may be provided on the outer surface of the electrodes. An exemplary probe generally comprises a chassis with an electrical cable extending from the proximal end of the chassis and with the cable terminating at an electrical plug configured for connection to a cardiac monitor.

Abstract: A clear bed gooseneck trailer hitch is provided. The trailer hitch is comprised of a wide metal plate, or disc, supported on a truck bed and having a standard long shank hitch ball fixedly connected perpendicularly therethrough. The threaded shaft of the shank hitch ball attaches to a threaded hole provided in a steel plate or channel of suitable design affixed underneath the truck bed to the frame rails of a pickup truck over the rear axle area. The plate has two handles on its top side located near the edge of the disc for use in turning the disc manually or by a torque bar upon attachment to or removal from the truck bed. Once the disc is removed, the truck bed remains clear and unobstructed for use in other conventional manners. The disc is used with a rubber bed mat, or a rubber washer, having a circumference slightly larger than the disc.