Reduced gate size: larger gates take longer to freeze off and permit increased orientation.

Early results from studies show the therapy - similar to that used by dermatologists to freeze off warts - works well inside the esophagus, though further study is needed, Dr. Sreenarasimhaiah said.

On a visit to an insect farm, she greedily peels the wings and legs off a freeze-dried locust and crunches down with gusto.