Abstract: Calcium channel .gamma.-subunit-encoding cDNAs, and related compositions and methods, are provided.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a magnetoresistive (MR) position sensor, including: a rotatable cylindrical encoder wheel having a plurality of alternating N and S magnetic poles spaced a constant pole pitch around the circumferential surface of the encoder wheel, adjacent ones of the N and S poles having interfacing edges parallel to the axis of rotation of the encoder wheel; a first MR sensing array disposed on an insulative substrate in proximity to the circumferential surface of the encoder wheel, such as to sense rotating magnetic fields produced by the N and S poles as they pass the first MR sensing array as the encoder wheel rotates, the first MR sensing array including at least a first section comprising at least two legs extending parallel to the interfacing edges, the at least two legs being joined in series so as to form a serpentine shape; apparatus to apply a constant DC voltage across terminal ends of the serpentine shape.

Abstract: A magnetic reluctance flowmeter having a magnetic float in which a permanent magnet and soft iron pole pieces are arranged in such a manner that the resulting magnetic field passes directly through the yoke which is also made of soft iron. The shape of the yoke is such that, as the magnetic float is progressively displaced from its neutral position within the yoke, the magnetic field progressively saturates regions of the yoke causing some of this field to emanate into the space surrounding the yoke, in which locations this emanating field interacts with the magnetic field sensors in such a way as to modify the electrical signal produced by a sensing circuit.

Abstract: A magnetic recording head positioning system includes a Terfenol-D magnetostrictive rod prestressed by a lever arm to operate in a linear range to microposition the magnetic recording head in accordance with an electromagnetic field. The mechanical advantage of the lever arm amplifies changes in the magnetostrictive rod to position the head. The varying electromagnetic field is applied to the rod by a coil in response to a position error signal produced from servo data tracks on the magnetic tape. A permanent magnet system biases the magnetostrictive element with a DC field so that varying the field provides bi-directional motion of the magnetic recording head. The DC field also reduces coil current and size requirements.

Abstract: A surgical probe for use in a hollow vessel or other region of the body which comprises a multi-lumen catheter having a transparent, non-compliant balloon coupled to the distal end, such that the balloon has a known shape when inflated. A direct visualization scope is provided in a first lumen of the multi-lumen catheter providing direct visualization into the hollow vessel through the non-compliant balloon. An adapter is coupled to a second lumen of the multi-lumen catheter near the proximal end to supply a transparent fluid through the second lumen to inflate the balloon to the predefined shape. In this aspect, the balloon operates to clear the scope tip by pressing tissue on the walls of the hollow vessel out of the way of the end of the scope. This provides the user of the device a consistent clear view of the tissue at the tip of the scope. A fiber optic is provided in a third lumen of the multi-lumen catheter to deliver light energy to the hollow vessel through the non-compliant balloon.

Abstract: A magnetic rotary encoder system includes a magnetoresistive sensor having a magnetoresistive element array which is selectively connected to accommodate a number of different diameter encoder wheels each wheel of which contains a different number of pieces of magnetic information recorded at corresponding different wavelengths. A sensing and conditioning circuit is coupled to the magnetoresistive sensor and detects changes in resistance of the magnetoresistive elements when a magnetic field produced by a magnetic pole causes the magnetoresistive resistance to drop. Output signals are provided in quadrature to increase the resolution of the system.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for controlling the flow rate in the parenteral administration of medical fluids, wherein a stored energy solenoid is utilized to move a pincher element against and away from a flexible IV tube in a repetitive manner to thereby control the flow of fluids through the tube.