Abstract: An emergency water release device comprises heating elements adapted to heat water, a shower and an eyewash, a valve and a controller which sends a first signal to turn off at least one of the plurality of heating elements when a temperature of the water exceeds a predetermined limit, and when a flow rate of the water is reduced to a reduced flow rate, the valve opens so that water is dispersed away from both the shower and the eyewash in an amount equal to the difference between the flow rate and the reduced flow rate. The heating elements form a first set electrically connected in series which provides heat for water to be dispensed by the shower, a second set electrically connected in series which provides heat for water to be dispensed by the eyewash. The first and second set of heating elements can be connected in parallel. The controller may also be configured to send a signal to another valve to open so that unheated water is mixed with heated water.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating tissue in a tissue treatment area includes a heater that does not contact the tissue. The apparatus may be attached to the skin of a person to form a treatment volume about the tissue to be treated. The heater, supported at the layer, is held near the tissue to be treated, out of contact with the tissue. The apparatus includes a controller to cause the heater to raise the temperature of tissue in the tissue treatment area to a temperature in a range from a pretreatment temperature to 38° C. The controller may include means that cause the heater to operate over a therapeutic sequence, that cycle the heater on and off, that provide selectable average temperature values, that cause the heater to operate over an average temperature range, that cause the heater to operate at an average temperature over a therapy cycle, or that cause the heater to operate at an average temperature over a therapeutic sequence.

Abstract: A laminate structure (e.g., hot or cold wrap) formed from outer substrates that are bonded together to form at least one pocket is provided. The pocket is separated by an inner substrate such that the pocket defines an upper pocket region and a lower pocket region, each of which contains a reactant. Due to the presence of the inner substrate, the reactants do not intermix prior to activation of the laminate structure. To activate the laminate structure, a tension force is exerted so that the inner substrate ruptures, thereby allowing the reactants to freely intermix and produce the desired result. For example, in some instances, the reactants undergo and exothermic or endothermic reaction so that the laminate structure may be utilized as a hot or cold wrap.

Abstract: This invention relates to a disposable wash cloth. The disposable wash cloth includes an aqueous solution incorporated onto a basehseet. The aqueous solution includes a fragrance, at least one mild surfactant, at least one moisturizer, and at least one preservative. The disposable wash cloth is capable of being heated to a select temperature at least twice while maintaining chemical stability.

Abstract: An integrated apparatus for controlled heat aided dermal drug delivery is disclosed. The apparatus has a temperature control component and a drug delivery component. The temperature control component may and dermal drug delivery component are an integrated unit. The apparatus also comprises means to prevent exchange of substance(s) among the heat generating component, the drug delivery component and the outside environment. The apparatus is designed to be easy to use.

Abstract: An electromagnetically induced mechanical cutting mechanism provides accurate cutting and ablating operations on soft tissues such as skin. Electromagnetic energy is concentrated into moist air and/or atomized fluid particles above the skin and, subsequently, the electromagnetic energy is absorbed by the moisture and/or atomized fluid particles to impart disruptive forces onto the skin. The moist air and/or atomized fluid particles may be medicated.

Abstract: A catheter using multiple hollow fibers to carry a heating/cooling fluid employs fiber spreading features to improve heat transfer and help prevent clotting of body fluids within which the catheter is immersed. The catheter includes a length of outer tube surrounding an inner tube. The inner tube conveys fluids in one direction, and the passageway between inner and outer tubes conveys fluids in the opposite direction. The inner and outer tubes have proximal distal ends. The distal end is closed, but the proximal end is open to permit introduction of a heating or cooling fluid into the inner tube, and withdrawal of the fluid from the passageway between the inner and outer tubes. At the tubes' distal end resides a proximal fluid transfer housing coupled to multiple hollow heat exchange fibers. The distal ends of these fibers may be commonly connected to a distal fluid transfer housing and optional reservoir, which cooperatively return fluid to the passageway between inner and outer tubes.

Abstract: The present invention relating to an exothermic decomposition has, as essential components, a water absorptive polymer and/or tackifier, carbon component and/or metal chloride and features that the product is as a whole ink-like or cream-like.

Abstract: An absorbent pad has a cavity formed by a first flexible sheet of a liquid impermeable material and a second flexible sheet of a liquid permeable material. An opening defined by at least one of the first sheet and second sheet. An interior sheet of a liquid absorbent material forms a gel upon contact with a liquid.

Abstract: A catheter is adapted to exchange heat with a body fluid, such as blood, flowing in a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The catheter includes a shaft with a heat exchange region disposed at its distal end. This region may include hollow fibers which are adapted to receive a remotely cooled heat exchange fluid preferably flowing in a direction counter to that of the body fluid. The hollow fibers enhance the surface area of contact, as well as the mixing of both the heat exchange fluid and the body fluid. The catheter can be positioned to produce hypothermia in a selective area of the body or alternatively positioned to systemically cool the entire body system.

Abstract: A catheter is adapted to exchange heat with a body fluid, such as blood, flowing in a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The catheter includes a shaft with a heat exchange region disposed at its distal end. This region may include hollow fibers which are adapted to receive a remotely cooled heat exchange fluid preferably flowing in a direction counter to that of the body fluid. The hollow fibers enhance the surface area of contact, as well as the mixing of both the heat exchange fluid and the body fluid. The catheter can be positioned to produce hypothermia in a selective area of the body or alternatively positioned to systemically cool the entire body system.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for keeping infusion fluids warm in which not only an infusion bag but also a tube extending from this and a cannula attached to the end of the tube are surrounded by a continuous heat-insulating cover (1,3,4), which heat-insulating cover is arranged such that it also surrounds the part of a person (5) into whom the cannula is inserted. The invention also concerns a device for realisation of the method.

Abstract: A personal urine collecting apparatus having a bidet system, includes a urine collector for collecting urine from a person, a urine repository for storing urine collected from the urine collector through a urine release guide line, a cleansing water tank arranged on one side of the urine repository for storing cleansing water, a heater connected to the cleansing water tank so as to receive a predetermined amount of the cleansing water and heat the cleansing water, a bidet system installed on in a body of the urine collector for injecting the cleansing water from the heater, a driving means connected to the urine release guide line and cleansing water guide line for actuating the urine collector and the bidet system, a controller for controlling the driving means, a sensing means for sensing a condition of the urine collector and a condition of at least one of the urine repository, cleansing water tank and the heater, and a case for housing and mounting the urine collector, the urine repository, cleansing wate

Abstract: A catheter is adapted to exchange heat with a body fluid, such as blood, flowing in a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The catheter includes a shaft with a heat exchange region disposed at its distal end. This region may include hollow fibers which are adapted to receive a remotely cooled heat exchange fluid preferably flowing in a direction counter to that of the body fluid. The hollow fibers enhance the surface area of contact, as well as the mixing of both the heat exchange fluid and the body fluid. The catheter can be positioned to produce hypothermia in a selective area of the body or alternatively positioned to systemically cool the entire body system.

Abstract: An insulated case designed to keep medical pads warm and in a condition ready for application over a period of hours. The case typically includes a cover, multiple internal containers and a source of controlled heat to warm the pads. The pads, after being saturated with a medication such as alcohol, are stored in the internal containers where they are raised in temperature by the controlled heat source to a predetermined temperature range and maintain within that temperature range. At the same time, the vapor pressure is maintained at a level within the internal containers to prevent the escape of the alcohol from the pads through evaporation. The safety features of this apparatus include an over temperature alarm and automatic shut off as well as an over pressure alarm and vent, all of which operate even when there is a power failure. Internal containers are individually insulated and are removable for transport to wherever they are needed.

Abstract: A supporting board for moxibusting implement of loess including an upper board with a receiving hole in a center and applied adhesives at the upper surface; a lower board with a receiving hole in a center and applied adhesives at the lower surface; a filter paper between the two boards; and exfoliation papers attached to the boards.

Abstract: A thermal treatment system warming basin for warming a sterile liquid or medium includes a heating pad disposed on the exterior surface of the basin floor in various configurations (e.g., spiral, ‘I’, ‘X’ or serpentine configurations, multiple heating pad segments disposed about the basin floor, etc.) to prevent damage to a sterile surgical drape placed over the system when objects are placed within the basin. The configurations cover a portion of the basin floor to permit the basin to absorb thermal energy that may otherwise be absorbed by and cause damage to the drape. In addition, a thermal treatment system and corresponding sterile surgical drape may include a variety of mechanisms to ensure sterility of a sterile liquid within a basin. In particular, the drape may include a reflective material segment to reflect infrared light emitted from an infrared light source toward a detector to indicate the proper positioning and/or presence of the drape on the thermal treatment system.

Abstract: A face masque that applies cooling therapy to facial features of a patient. The masque is formed of two nylon or plastic layers that define a closed interior space and filled with a cooling medium that includes water, glycerin and hydroxyethyl cellulose. The masque controls the rate of heat dissipation from a user based upon the heat capacity, mass, rheology and composition of the materials used. The masque is lighter than conventional water-filled ice packs. It remains unfrozen and malleable even when cooled to sub-zero temperatures at which water-filled packs would freeze solid. The masque readily conforms to facial features due to the materials used, thereby contributing to improved comfort on the part of a user. Further, the masque possesses improved cooling therapy because it remains cold for longer periods of time relative to water-filled ice packs. Optionally, the masque accommodates eye inserts placed between a main body of the masque and recesses of the patient's eyes.

Abstract: A surgical handpiece having two coaxial tubes or channels mounted within a body. The first tube is used for aspiration and is smaller in diameter than the second tube so as to great an annular passage between the first and second tube. The annular passage communicates with a pumping chamber formed between two electrodes. The pumping chamber works by boiling a small volume of the surgical fluid. As the fluid boils, it expands rapidly, thereby propelling the liquid downstream of the pumping chamber out of the annular passage. The electrodes are insulated from each other.

Abstract: The invention provides an adhesive cooling gel composition which stably contains a large amount of water and which is excellent in cooling effect and/or coolness-preserving effect, and a process for preparing the same. The composition comprises a polyacrylic acid compound, a polyvalent metal component and water, wherein the content of water is 75 to 95% by weight based on the cooling composition.

Abstract: A tip for a liquefracture surgical handpiece. The tip uses at least two channels or tubes. One tube is used for aspiration and at least one other tube is used to inject heated surgical fluid for liquefying a cataractous lens. The distal portion of the injection tube terminates just inside of the aspiration tube and directs the heated fluid through an orifice in the wall of the aspiration tube opposite the injection tube. The handpiece may also contain other tubes, for example, for injecting relatively cool surgical fluid.

Abstract: A compact hand-held skin treatment device has a porous, slowly movable surface mounted on its housing that applies steam vapor condensate to the skin, thereby providing a light cleansing buffing action. Steam vapor is generated within a narrow vertical boiling chamber by a small compact electric heating assembly within the housing and located close to the movable porous surface. It provides a sufficient amount of vapor to coat the rotating surface with a layer of condensate to be applied to the skin. The housing also contains a small liquid reservoir, a battery operated power supply and a small motor to provide a self-contained readily operated device.

Abstract: A thermal treatment system warming basin for warming a sterile liquid or medium includes a heating pad disposed on the exterior surface of the basin floor in various configurations (e.g., spiral, `I`, `X` or serpentine configurations, multiple heating pad segments disposed about the basin floor, etc.) to prevent damage to a sterile surgical drape placed over the system when objects are placed within the basin. The configurations cover a portion of the basin floor to permit the basin to absorb thermal energy that may otherwise be absorbed by and cause damage to the drape. In addition, a thermal treatment system and corresponding sterile surgical drape may include a variety of mechanisms to ensure sterility of a sterile liquid within a basin. In particular, the drape may include a reflective material segment to reflect infrared light emitted from an infrared light source toward a detector to indicate the proper positioning and/or presence of the drape on the thermal treatment system.

Abstract: A moxibusting implement includes a loess support having a centrally located receiving through hole and a cross-shaped air circulative groove at a lower surface thereof, the cross-shaped air circulative groove being in communication with the receiving hole in the loess support and extending from the receiving hole to an outer periphery of the loess support; a filter paper at the lower surface of the loess board; a paper board at a lower surface of the filter paper, the paper board having a receiving through hole therein which is co-axially aligned with the receiving hole in the loess support; an exfoliation paper at a lower surface of the paper board; and a cylindrical moxa at an upper surface of the loess support and having a hole which is co-axially aligned with the receiving hole in the loess support, the moxa being aligned with the receiving hole of the loess support, such that the moxibusting implement is capable of obtaining a wormwood effect and a strong and deep moxibusting effect by producing far-infr

Abstract: A temperature-controlled container for transporting biologic tissue and human skin is set out wherein an outer insulated container houses a power source, a thermostat means, a heating means, a power source and interior container along with a retention means for holding the sample in place and a lid that interlocks with the open annular area by a T-shaped friction plug. The thermostat means may be a microchip and heating element so that the sample and interior temperature does not vary from a given temperature parameter.

Abstract: A temperature-controlled container for transporting biologic tissue and human skin is set out wherein an outer insulated container houses a power source, a thermostat means, a heating means, a power source and interior container along with a retention means for holding the sample in place and a lid that interlocks with the open elongated chamber area by a T-shaped friction plug. The thermostat means may be a microchip and heating element so that the sample and interior temperature does not vary from a given temperature parameter. A eutectic pack which is a solid at room temperature and experiences a phase change to the liquid state at temperatures exceeding room temperature is provided to insure that a minimal super-ambient temperature is maintained.

Abstract: A tip for a liquefraction surgical handpiece. The tip uses at least two lumens. One lumen is used for aspiration and another, smaller lumen is used to inject heated surgical fluid for liquefying a cataractous lens. The distal portion of the injection lumen terminates just inside of the aspiration lumen so that heated fluid escaping the injection lumen is reflected off of the internal wall of the aspiration lumen prior to entering the eye. Such an arrangement prevents the injected fluid from directly entering the eye. The handpiece may also contain other lumen, for example, for injecting relatively cool surgical fluid.

Abstract: A surgical handpiece having at least two lumens mounted to a body. At least one lumen is used for aspiration and at least one other lumen is used to inject heated surgical fluid for liquefying a cataractous lens. A portion of the second lumen is enlarged to form a pumping chamber. The pumping chamber works by boiling a small volume of the surgical fluid. As the fluid boils, it expands rapidly, thereby propelling the liquid downstream of the pumping chamber out of the second lumen. The pumping chamber may use a pair of electrodes, at least one of the electrodes containing a countersink.

Abstract: Water is adhered to the bottom face of a non-woven fabric having a large number of pores, then a heat generating powder composition is sprayed onto the top face of this fabric to be held in place. Another non-woven fabric is then superposed on the top face of the first non-woven fabric and the two non-woven fabrics are compressed. Water or a solution of electrolytes in water is then sprayed on the fabrics. Thereby, a sheet shaped heat generating body can be provided which uses a heat generating composition which generates heat when contacting air, which prevents concentration of the heat generating composition in one direction, and which is thin, flexible and has good heat generating properties.

Abstract: A moxibusting implement includes a loess support having a receiving hole and a recess for inserting a filter paper. When a moxa is burned and the heat generated reaches the loess support(10), far-infrared radiation is produced from the loess support to enhance the effect of the moxa cautery treatment.

Abstract: An acupressure-type moxa treatment device uses a carbonized moxa, of which main component is moxa and which is compression-moulded into a fixed shape and does not generate smoke nor bad smell when burned. The device includes a holding cage held between a front inner cylinder 1 and a rear inner cylinder 2, and an ignited carbonized moxa 9 in a holding cage 8. The inner cylinders enclosed by a cap 5, a front outer cylinder 2, and a rear outer cylinder 2. The front inner cylinder 1, the rear inner cylinder 2, the front outer cylinder 3, and the rear outer cylinder 2 are provided with cooperating and adjustable air inlets 1a, 2a, and air control ports 3a, 4a, respectively, to enable proper combustion of the carbonized moxa 9.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for bleaching teeth. The method involves heating a dental bleaching solution capable of yielding a bleaching vapor having a concentrated peroxide molecule content when heated until the bleaching vapor is obtained, and thereafter applying the bleaching vapor to a surface of at least one tooth in order to bleach the tooth. The apparatus includes a housing defining a chamber to be partially filled with a bleaching solution, the bleaching solution being capable of yielding a bleaching vapor having a concentrated peroxide content when heated.

Abstract: A heat dressing for treatment of skin areas and comprising a heat generating unit and a liquid-absorbing adhesive layer which prior to use is coated with a strippable release layer. The adhesive layer is preferably of a hydrocolloidal material and may optionally contain one or more medicaments or be coated with alginate fibre mats. The heat generating unit generates heat preferably by means of galvanic or chemical energy, and the heat dressing may further comprise elements for controlling the heat development and/or the surface temperature.

Abstract: A mugwort moxacautery device in which herbal ingredients plus medicinal mugwort composition may be deeply permeated into the affected area of skin by fumigating them based on combustion efficiency of the mugwort pole and its combustion heat. The moxacautery device (4) with aromatic herbal medicines has a lower body (1), upper body (2) and lid (3) in earthen ware. An herbal-medicine ring (7) and porous plate for herbal medicine (6) are mounted to the center-empty portions (8, 9) in a lower body (1) and upper body (2) in a sequential order. A mugwort pole (5) is provided between the inside of upper body (2) and netting plates (10, 11) are placed between the upper body (2) and lid (3).

Abstract: A toilet training aid is in the form of a pad that creates a noticeable, distinct feeling during urination. In particular embodiments, the pad may provide the wearer with a temperature change sensation, a wet sensation, a dimensional change sensation, or some combination thereof to signal that urination is occurring. The toilet training aids are desirably attached to a garment by a consumer, thus enabling the consumer to select the type of accompanying garment and the particular time that is best suited to toilet training.

Abstract: A device for preventing or reducing the incidence or intensity of pain occurring in a region of the body of a wearer, includes insulating material (2) which is arranged to be worn in conformity and close proximity with the body region. The insulating material has at least one layer (14) for reducing heat loss from the body region by convection and at least one reflective layer (13) for reducing heat loss from the body by radiation, whereby a targeted local warming effect is achieved in the body region such that the skin and underlying musculoskeletal structures are in such an active state that they can function properly to provide a clinical benefit to the body region.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a compress comprising Dead Sea mineral mud or a mineral mud having similar properties. Said compress comprises substantially a fibrous cloth; an absorbent material on which a mineral mud having the properties of the Dead Sea mud is evenly spread; and a non permeable plastic sheet; all said layers being located one upon another; the materials being heat resistant to at least 70.degree. C. and resistant to solutions of high salinity.

Abstract: A toilet training aid is in the form of a pad that creates a noticeable, distinct feeling during urination. In particular embodiments, the pad may provide the wearer with a temperature change sensation, a wet sensation, a dimensional change sensation, or some combination thereof to signal that urination is occurring. The toilet training aids are desirably attached to a garment by a consumer, thus enabling the consumer to select the type of accompanying garment and the particular time that is best suited to toilet training.

Abstract: A heat dressing for treatment of skin areas and comprising a heat generating unit and a liquid-absorbing adhesive layer which prior to use is coated with a strippable release layer. The adhesive layer is preferably of a hydrocolloidal material and may optionally contain one or more medicaments or be coated with alginate fibre mats. The heat generating unit generates heat preferably by means of galvanic or chemical energy, and the heat dressing may further comprise elements for controlling the heat development and/or the surface temperature.

Abstract: A toilet training aid is in the form of a pad that creates a noticeable, distinct feeling during urination. In particular embodiments, the pad may provide the wearer with a temperature change sensation, a wet sensation, a dimensional change sensation, or some combination thereof to signal that urination is occurring. The toilet training aids are desirably attached to a garment by a consumer, thus enabling the consumer to select the type of accompanying garment and the particular time that is best suited to toilet training.

Abstract: A steaming device for skin treatment includes a base, having an upper and lower surface, the base including a reservoir for water and a non-corrodible conductance element which is defined by two side-by-side vertically positioned electrodes which extend a part of the height of the reservoir. The electrodes diverge from each other as they approach the bottom of the bottom of the base to reduce current flow between them, this compensating for increased conductivity due to mineralization of the water near the bottom of the reservoir that occurs with vaporization and which mineralization would otherwise increase voltage between electrodes to a hazardous level. The device further includes a top portion including an upper and a lower area, and a container for therapeutic substances to be mingled with steam produced by the effect of the conductance element on the water.

Abstract: A method of treating headaches that involves generating chilled air, conveying the air to the patient, and inhaling the chilled air until relief is obtained. Apparatus for generating chilled air for the treatment of headaches that includes a heat exchanger located in an insulated housing, a fan for moving air over the heat exchanger, a conduit connected to the housing for conveying the chilled air to a face mask for inhalation by the patient.

Abstract: A moxibusting implement, which a moxa is inserted into an equal in size receiving hole of an upper paper-board and is adhered to an adhesion sheet having an adhesion layer. Thus, while a moxa is burned, the heat occurring is not emitted upwardly and flows down toward the receiving hole of the lower paper-board to enhance the effect of the moxa cautery treatment.

Abstract: A method for cryogenically treating skin lesions employing a device for applying cryogenic refrigerant in a liquid pool contacting the area of the skin lesion at a temperature and for a time such that permanent, irreversible rupture of the cellular membrane of the skin cells occurs, wherein the device employs a synthetic plastic foam applicator at the distal end of a tube which may be connected to an aerosol or pressurized container containing the cryogenic refrigerant.

Abstract: The common cold and related disorders such as influenza, acute sinusitis, acute otitis, and infectious exacerbations of obstructive pulmonary disease, are best treated by providing a combination of antiviral agents and antiinflammatory compounds to a patient infected with a cold or influenza virus. An antiviral agent and two antiinflammatory compounds given to a person infected with a cold virus simultaneously reduces the likelihood of a cold developing and the amount and duration of viral shedding, as well as substantially reduces the severity of individual cold symptoms and the overall number and severity of cold symptoms. Supplementing the activity of the combined antiviral and antiinflammatory agents with such compounds as antihistamines and alpha agonists results in suprisingly good nasal benefits. Particularly good treatment results when an antiinflammatory compound which will reduce the volume of mucus secretion and/or reduce the viscosity of mucus present in the sinus cavity.

Abstract: A therapeutic method for treating hypothermia and hyperthermia conditions in human patients by applying a continuous flow of temperature-controlled warmed water over a substantial area of the body of the patient to effect sensible heat transfer between the body and the water. Apparatus is provided for warming, delivering, and distributing the water flow over at least fifty percent of the patient's body and for collecting spent water into a receptacle. A network of water-permeable tubes delivers a flow of warmed water to an absorbent web draped over the body of the patient, thereby to distribute the water flow over a large area and in close proximity to and wetting the surface of the patient's body, thereby to effect sensible heat transfer over a large area. Evaporative heat loss may be minimized by reducing air convection adjacent the water flow.

Abstract: A thermal pack for heating or cooling portions of a body and a flow retardant gel for use therein. The thermal pack includes a gel pad and a pressure chamber. The gel includes a fibrous material disposed therein to essentially prevent flow and increase heat capacity.

Abstract: The present invention provides reusable warmers of the supersaturated solution type that are substantially free of saddlebagging. The warmers also exhibit a more sustained period of time during which the heat pack remains within a therapeutically useful temperature range. The reusable warmers of the present invention also maintain a substantial degree of flexibility during their useful heat cycle. The reusable warmers comprise a flexible container, and located within said container, a supercooled salt solution, an activator for initiating crystallization of said supercooled salt solution, and a gelling agent, said gelling agent being present in sufficient quantity to convert said salt solution to a gel.

Abstract: A method for cryogenically treating skin lesions employing a hollow fluid retaining device for retaining cryogenic refrigerant in a liquid pool contacting the area of the skin lesion at a temperature and for a time such that permanent, irreversible rupture of the cellular membrane of the skin cells occurs.

Abstract: The present invention provides reusable warmers of the supersaturated solution type that are substantially free of saddlebagging. The warmers also exhibit a more sustained period of time during which the heat pack remains within a therapeutically useful temperature range. The reusable warmers of the present invention also maintain a substantial degree of flexibility during their useful heat cycle. The reusable warmers comprise a flexible container, and located within said container, a supercooled salt solution, an activator for initiating crystallization of said supercooled salt solution, and a gelling agent, said gelling agent being present in sufficient quantity to convert said salt solution to a gel.