Abstract: Described is changing the perceived appearance of a switch by writing content (e.g., an icon) to a switch assembly to change the context of the switch based upon a hardware device's current operating context and/or by changing the perceived color of the switch based upon the hardware device's current operating context. The switch may be layered, for example, with a transparent cover associated with a light guide that can change color via a controlled LED, a writeable surface and an underlying switch (e.g., physical or capacitive sensed) mechanism. Upon detecting interaction with a user interface, the appearance of a switch is based on a current context of the user interface. The system includes means for writing to the writeable surface so that it corresponds to the current context of the program.

Abstract: An implant for bridging a gap in a severed spinal cord or nerve and for promoting nerve regeneration has a matrix comprising a biocompatible, biodegradable, polymeric material. The matrix has a proximal end for connection to a first end of severed spinal cord and a distal end for connection to a second end of severed spinal cord. The matrix includes internal guidance channels extending between the proximal end and the distal end to facilitate rejoining of the first end and the second end of the severed spinal cord. A bioactive agent may be dispersed in the matrix, or disposed in the channels, or included within microspheres in the channels. The channels may be arranged such that guidance channels correspond to spinal cord tracts. Alternatively, guidance channels may be spaced apart at the proximal end of the matrix and converge inward toward the axis of the matrix at the distal end.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of lipophilic diesters of the chelating agent 1,2-bis(2 aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N?,N?-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA) for inhibition of proteolytic activities of certain metalloproteinases and of calpain. The invention further relates to methods for preventing, treating or managing MMP-related and calpain-related diseases or disorders in mammals comprising administering to a mammal in need thereof, a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of said lipophilic diesters of the chelating agent BAPTA.

Abstract: A fastening system is disclosed for wireless communication devices that may be worn by a human being. The fastening system may employ a conductive material, for example, which may be used by the wireless communication device for receiving wireless signals, for example. Further, the conductive may be molded or embedded into a non-conductive (e.g., polyurethane) fastener for attaching the device to a human being, for example. The non-conductive fastener may include cleats that may protrude out from the fastener to protect the device's communication system. Further, metal links may be attached to the non-conductive fastener using traditional fastening hardware that may be used for the particular wireless communication device associated with the fastener.

Abstract: A number of device interfaces that may use magnetic forces to secure different devices together are disclosed. The device interfaces may include magnetic material positioned in between parallel rows of electrical contact elements in the devices. Magnetic forces may be exerted on and from the electrical contact elements to cause mutually cooperating elements from the devices to be substantially attracted and drawn towards each other. Once the contact elements make contact and are engaged, their mutual attractive forces may cause them to resist being separated. Additionally, the distal ends of the contact elements may have mutually cooperating male and female engagement surface configurations.

Abstract: Method of modulating High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in a mammal by administering to the mammal a therapeutically effective amount of a fluphenazine ester derivative. Pharmaceutical formulations for administration of the fluphenazine ester derivative are also disclosed.

Abstract: An implant for bridging a gap in a severed spinal cord or nerve and for promoting nerve regeneration has a matrix comprising a biocompatible, biodegradable, polymeric material. The matrix has a proximal end for connection to a first end of severed spinal cord and a distal end for connection to a second end of severed spinal cord. The matrix includes internal guidance channels extending between the proximal end and the distal end to facilitate rejoining of the first end and the second end of the severed spinal cord. A bioactive agent may be dispersed in the matrix, or disposed in the channels, or included within microspheres in the channels. The channels may be arranged such that guidance channels correspond to spinal cord tracts. Alternatively, guidance channels may be spaced apart at the proximal end of the matrix and converge inward toward the axis of the matrix at the distal end.