Abstract: The design, and synthesis of peptide-based molecules termed helizymes which possess catalytic activity are described herein The catalytic molecules of the invention comprise a number of amphiphilic helical peptides, which interact via hydrophobic interactions and which are bonded at their carboxyl ends to a multifunctional base. Active site residues functional for catalysis are positioned within or at the N-termini of the helical peptides. The helizyme molecule adopts a conformation in aqueous medium such that a substrate binding pocket is formed and such that functional active site geometry results from the association of the helical peptides Specifically exemplified helizymes possess specificities and at least one catalytic activity of chymotrypsin, trypsin and acetylcholine esterase.

Abstract: An electrosurgical technique of achieving coagulation involves conducting a predetermined ionizable gas in a jet to the tissue at a predetermined flow rate sufficient to clear natural fluids from the tissue and to substantially expose the tissue stroma. Electrical radio frequency energy is conducted to the tissue in ionized conductive pathways in the gas jet. To achieve fulguration, the electrical energy is conducted as arcs in the ionized conductive pathways. To achieve a non-contact type of electrosurgical desiccation, the electrical energy is conducted as a non-arcing diffuse current in the ionized conductive pathways.

Abstract: A stent for the anastomosis of a vessel comprises an integral solid of biologically compatible material which is adapted to melt from a solid into a fluid in response to heat energy or body temperature into the fluid which flows through the vessel. Preferably the stent is formed of frozen material, and has a temperature which is substantially less than the temperature of the vessel upon insertion. Upon melting, the biologically compatible material naturally integrates with the fluid normally conducted by the vessel. The stent may be advantageously formed of frozen blood plasma or other blood fluid which is compatible with the blood normally conducted by an artery or a vein. When used in conjunction with thermal bonding techniques, the stent aligns the ends of the vessel for thermal bonding without the necessity for taking the time-consuming circumferentially-spaced stay sutures.

Abstract: A stent for the anastomosis of a vessel comprises an integral solid of biologically compatible material which is adapted to melt from a solid into a fluid in response to heat energy or body temperature into the fluid which flows through the vessel. Preferably the stent is formed of frozen material, and has a temperature which is substantially less than the temperature of the vessel upon insertion. Upon melting, the biologically compatible material naturally integrates with the fluid normally conducted by the vessel. The stent may be advantageously formed of frozen blood plasma or other blood fluid which is compatible with the blood normally conducted by an artery or a vein. When used in conjunction with thermal bonding techniques, the stent aligns the ends of the vessel for thermal bonding without the necessity for taking the time-consuming circumferentially-spaced stay sutures.