Abstract: Embodiments disclosed relate to methods of treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), including: selecting a therapeutic compound: treating an aberrant arachidonic acid (AA) metabolic pathway in an ALS cell.

Abstract: A heating cable for use with alternating current (AC) may include multiple conductive metal strands. A strain-relief yarn may also be included. The strands may be coated with an electrically-insulating coating. The strands, including the strain-relief yarn, may be twisted together and coated with an electrically-insulating outer coating to provide the heating cable.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an electrode assembly wherein an electrically conductive material is configured to extend into an insulating moulding via an opening in a wall of said moulding to electrically contact an active tip placed into the insulating moulding and thereby retain the active electrode therein, such that the height and space required to anchor the active electrode within the moulding is greatly reduced while still providing the necessary retention strength and electrical connection. As such, the electrode assembly retains and connects the active tip with a conductive element that is mounted within the insulating moulding.

Abstract: A temperature sensing system for an electrosurgical instrument able to detect temperatures internal and/or external to the electrosurgical instrument. Temperatures detected by a temperature sensor are processed by a monitoring module which prompts action to reduce temperatures where appropriate. The temperature sensing system is particularly useful for electrosurgical instruments which combine rotary shaver arrangements and RF electrode arrangements, where suction is used to remove RF heated saline from the surgical site. Without monitoring the temperature of the electrosurgical instrument and/or the surgical site, there is a risk of burning the patient if the RF heated saline becomes too hot as the electrosurgical instrument may not be adequately insulated.

Abstract: A surgical instrument is configured to reduce conductivity between an RF electrosurgical portion and a cutting portion. This reduces improves the efficiency and consistency of the generated RF field, with higher current densities nearest the target tissue, improving the performance of the RF electrosurgical instrument. The conductivity may be reduced using a layer of insulating material, a projecting insulating portion or a cutting portion constructed from an insulating material. Further, by providing a lubricous insulating layer shedding may be reduced, increasing the usable life of the cutting portion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a commode comprising: a frame, a seat-shell that rests on the frame, and a pan cover wherein in use a disposable pan rests on the seat shell. Commodes of the invention have one or more of the following features: they are portable, robust, easy and quick to clean, are simple and easy to manufacture and store. They have relatively few parts to assist in manufacture, repair, and cleaning. They are easy and comfortable to use and, as far as possible, preserve the users' dignity.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for evaluating an image-wise exposed storage film positioned about a cylindrically-shaped member and linearly passed by a slot for interrogation by a laser light beam wherein a processing assembly (laser beam and pentraprism) is co-axially disposed within a processing chamber formed by the cylindrically-shaped member effecting a size reduction of the unit and increased clarity of the resultant image, and wherein the processing assembly includes a plate member disposed for rotation in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the processing chamber and having a pentaprism and a luminescence light sensor positioned proximate a contact point of the interrogating light beam with the storage film and further including converter electronics wherein after interrogation, the image scanned is digitally archived in a central processing unit.

Abstract: These and other objects of the present invention are achieved by an apparatus and process for evaluating an image-wise exposed storage film positioned about a cylindrically-shaped member and linearly passed by a slot for interrogation by a laser light beam wherein a processing assembly (laser beam and pentraprism) is co-axially disposed within a processing chamber formed by the cylindrically-shaped member effecting a size reduction of the unit and increased clarity of the resultant image, and wherein the processing assembly includes a plate member disposed for rotation in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the processing chamber and having a pentaprism and a luminescence light sensor positioned proximate a contact point of the interrogating light beam with the storage film and further including converter electronics wherein after interrogation, the image scanned is digitally archived in a central processing unit.

Abstract: Grillwork for automotive uses, fencing, and railings includes a series of parallel extending rail members each attachable to cross support members at two locations thereon, to support each rail member and to hold each rail member in position on the cross support members. Two mounting pieces, attachable to respective cross support members, are used to hold/mount each rail member. The mounting pieces each slide into locked position at an end of each rail and also provide an end cap/finish piece for the rail. The rails and the mounting pieces are manufactured of similar materials and by similar manufacturing techniques. The materials of manufacture can extend from various metals, to various thermoplastics, to reinforced plastic composites such as fiberglass reinforced materials.