Abstract: The invention relates to a bispecific HER2-targeting agent comprising a.) a first polypeptide ligand that binds to HER2 extracellular domain 1, b.) a second polypeptide ligand that binds to HER2 extracellular domain 4 and c.) a linker covalently attaching said first polypeptide ligand to said second polypeptide ligand.

Abstract: A device for repair surgery of cylindrical organs, particularly ruptured tendons, is configured as a tubular sheath (T) made of a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer. The tubular sheath comprises an elastic fiber mesh formed by electrospinning of said polymer and has an inner wall surface and an outer wall surface substantially parallel thereto. One of said wall surfaces is comparatively rough (WR) and the other one of said wall surfaces is comparatively smooth (WS), with the tubular sheath having a Young elasticity modulus of about 2 to about 5 MPa and an elongation at break of about 50 to about 1,000%. Preferably, the polymer is a biodegradable polyester urethane block copolymer with poly-hydroxy-butyrate as a hard 10 segment and ?-caprolactone as a soft segment.

Abstract: Disclosed are virtual reality systems, in particular immersive virtual reality systems, their parts, construction and use. The systems and/or parts thereof may be used by adults or children, and may be adapted to support, often within a single device, a large range of users of different sizes and medical condition. Users with physical disabilities have difficulties using existing immersive technologies such as those using accessories like head-mounted displays and data gloves. Such users are provided with immersive virtual reality outputs that allow them to see virtual representations of their body parts which appear in a correct spatial position relative to the users' viewpoint.

Abstract: A miR-323-3p inhibitor is provided for the prevention or therapy of rheumatoid arthritis, comprising a sequence capable of forming a hybrid to miR-323-3p as an oligonucleotide or a vector from which such oligonucleotide is transcribed, or as a miRNA decoy or sponge.

Abstract: Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disease characterized by red blood cells that assume an abnormal, rigid, sickle shape. Acute complications of Sickle cell anemia are treated symptomatically with analgesics and transfusions, and a prophylactic treatment of sickle cell crisis is long term application of hydroxyurea. According to the present invention, an N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) blocker is used for the treatment of sickle cell anemia and for manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of sickle cell anemia. Moreover, a method for screening for a compound effective in the treatment of sickle cell anemia comprises contacting a candidate compound with the NMDAR and selecting said candidate compound as effective if it is found to selectively reduce activity of the NMDAR.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of treating scleroderma. The method consists in the upregulation of miR-29 by administration of miR-29 or a miR-29 upregulator which elevates circulating and/or intracellular concentrations of miR-29. The invention likewise relates to the use of miR-29 for such a treatment, and the use of miR-29 for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of scleroderma.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of treating scleroderma. The method consists in the upregulation of miR-29 by administration of miR-29 or a miR-29 upregulator which elevates circulating and/or intracellular concentrations of miR-29. The invention likewise relates to the use of miR-29 for such a treatment, and the use of miR-29 for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of scleroderma.