Abstract: The invention provides an optical drop detection system (10), for a low-flow metering device of the type having a drop generator 12, 24, (19), the system comprising at least one optical transmitter (26) which produces a plurality of light beam pulses (28) of microsecond duration and at millisecond intervals, and at least one optical receiver (33) positioned to register receipt of the light pulses (28) transmitted through the path of drops (18) generated by the drop generator (12, 24, 19) and to record the number of pulses which hit a given drop and which do not register on the receiver (32), the frequency and strength of the pulses being calibrated so that a single drop is impinged upon by a plurality of pulses, and further comprising automatic feed-back means for adjusting the parameters of interaction between the at least one optical transmitter (26) and the at least one optical receiver (32) to produce and maintain a predetermined minimum and a predetermined maximum number of hits per drop.

Abstract: Biologically active peptides that are derived from or are similar to sequences identical with the N-terminus of the oS1 fraction of milk casein. These peptides are capable of stimulating and enhancing immune response, protecting against viral infection, normalizing serum cholesterol levels, and stimulating hematopoiesis. The casein-derived peptides are non-toxic and can be used to treat and prevent immune pathologies, hypercholesterolemia, hematological disorders and viral-related diseases.

Abstract: An intramedullar distraction device for bone elongation that is completely mechanical in operation, wherein a novel rotating button system allows inverting the device ratchet movement, thereby enabling the reduction of the length of the device, if needed, in order to offer the surgeon operating flexibility before finally anchoring the device on the bone. Furthermore, a locking system allows for locking the ratchet once the desired elongation has been reached, thus avoiding potential mistaken elongations. In addition, a unique alignment hole provides a simple, precise tool to easily and correctly align the device within the bone. The present device operates without the assistance of external mechanisms, motors, or tools, and once inserted, the user can actuate the device without assistance. This device is available in a wide variety of diameters and lengths, and is useful in all long bones.

Abstract: Biologically active peptides that are derived from or are similar to sequences identical with the N-terminus of the ?S1 fraction of milk casein. These peptides are capable of stimulating and enhancing immune response, protecting against viral infection, normalizing serum cholesterol levels, and stimulating hematopoiesis. The casein-derived peptides are non-toxic and can be used to treat and prevent immune pathologies, hypercholesterolemia, hematological disorders and viral-related diseases, alone or in combination with other peptides or blood cell stimulating factors.