Abstract: A class of novel agents that are able to modify nociceptive afferent function is provided. The agents may inhibit the release of neurotransmitters from discrete populations of neurones and thereby reduce or preferably prevent the transmission of afferent pain signals from peripheral to central pain fibers. They comprise a galactose-binding lectin linked to a derivative of a clostridial neurotoxin. The derivative of the clostridial neurotoxin comprises the L-chain, or a fragment thereof, which includes the active proteolytic enzyme domain of the light (L) chain, linked to a molecule or domain with membrane translocating activity. The agents may be used in or as pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pain, particularly chronic pain.

Abstract: An electromagnetic coil assembly comprising a spool-spindle and a case. The spool-spindle comprises a spindle portion and a larger included portion. The spindle portion has a conductor wound thereon. The larger included portion has opening for receiving the conductor. The case has a first case end and a second case end, with an opening extending through the case. A first internal surrounding surface extends from the second case end and a second surrounding internal surface having a smaller diameter extends from the first case end. The first internal surrounding surface meets the second internal surrounding surface at an annular internal wall. The spool-spindle is positioned in the case until the larger include portion abuts against the annular internal wall, and the case and spool-spindle are joined.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agent specific for peripheral sensory afferents. The agent may inhibit the transmission of signals between a primary sensory afferent and a projection neutron by controlling the release of at least one neurotransmitter or neuromodulator from the primary sensory afferent. The agent may be used in or as a pharmaceutical for the treatment of pain, particularly chronic pain.

Abstract: A bend stiffener 2 is disclosed for preventing excessive bending of an elongate member, e.g. a marine riser, in a region where it enters a tube, e.g. an “l” or “J” tube mounted on a hydrocarbon extraction platform. The bend stiffener has an elongate sleeve 8 having a through-going cavity which receives the elongate member in use. The sleeve is to be mounted by means of (i) a mating part 18 received by the tube and (ii) an axial locating arrangement 6, 12, 14, 16. The axial locating arrangement is designed to permit at least some angular movement. As a result bending moments are borne by the engagement of the mating part 18 with the tube. The axial locating arrangement does not suffer large bending moments and so problems of fatigue in this area are alleviated.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agent specific for peripheral sensory afferents. The agent may inhibit the transmission of signals between a primary sensory afferent and a projection neutron by controlling the release of at least one neurotransmitter or neuromodulator from the primary sensory afferent. The agent may be used in or as a pharmaceutical for the treatment of pain, particularly chronic pain.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agent specific for peripheral sensory afferents. The agent may inhibit the transmission of signals between a primary sensory afferent and a projection neuron by controlling the release of at least one neurotransmitter or neuromodulator from the primary sensory afferent. The agent may be used in or as a pharmaceutical for the treatment of pain, particularly chronic pain.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agent specific for peripheral sensory afferents. The agent may inhibit the transmission of signals between a primary sensory afferent and a projection neuron by controlling the release of at least one neurotransmitter or neuromodulator from the primary sensory afferent. The agent may be used in or as a pharmaceutical for the treatment of pain, particularly chronic pain.

Abstract: An enclosure for a tub or shower comprising a header having first and second exterior faces with each face having a decorative configuration. Panel doors, each having an interchangeable towel rack or handle, are connected to said header. Each towel rack or handle has a decorative configurations which is the same as or corresponds with one of the decorative configurations on the header exteriors such that a towel rack or handle and a header exterior face have matching decorative configurations when viewed from either the inside or outside of the enclosure.