Abstract: The present invention relates to peptide compounds that are capable of stimulating neuronal differentiation, neurite outgrowth and survival of neural cells, and enhancing synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, methods of treating diseases and conditions of nervous system by administration of compositions comprising said compounds. The compounds and compositions of the invention include peptide sequences that are derived from the sequence of human erythropoietin or proteins that are homologous of human erythropoietin.

Abstract: Power generation systems and methods are provided with features directed to various innovations including ones relating to the conversion of concentrated solar and biomass energy to electricity, load-shifting of electrical power supply systems, gas turbine devices and cycles, and power plant control systems.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for maintaining a desired position of a collimated light beam are provided. An optical system includes one or more passive optical elements movably positioned in the beam path. Beam position is responsive to movement of at least one of the passive optical elements. The actual position of the beam is detected and compared with the desired beam position. An error signal is generated and the beam path is altered responsive to movement of one or more of the passive optical elements. In further aspects, beam shaping optics, such diffractive optics, are provided to shape the sensed beam portion. In still other aspects, thermal conditions of the laser may be monitored and a thermal map is provided to automatically compensate for estimated beam drift due to thermal conditions.

Abstract: Pivoting helmet mounts for an optical device are provided. In one aspect, a breakaway connector which is selectively configurable between breakaway and nonbreakaway configurations is provided. In a further aspect, a strap mount system for securing the helmet mount to the helmet employs a rotating ratchet assembly to adjust tension in the strap. In another aspect, a helmet mount for an optical device comprises a track assembly attached to a helmet to allow stowing of the optical device in a further retracted position. The track mount system may further include electrical connectors for attaching a power supply and an electronic device. In another aspect, a mounting bracket allows helmet-mounted optics to be shared with a weapon accessory mount. In a further aspect, a optical sighting device for a weapon combines a reflex sight a night vision goggle to allow targeting at night or in other low-light conditions.

Abstract: A user interface for viewing reference data associated with a conceptual entity and for execution of one or more complex processes for manipulating the data includes a process panel having one or more on-screen objects for the execution of the complex processes and a process work area for displaying a state of selected complex processes. A data viewer includes a content pane for the display of the reference data and one or more on-screen objects for selectively displaying at least a portion of the reference data and the process panel and data viewer are framed within a common window. The process panel and data viewer are selectably viewable and occupy overlapping positions within the common window.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an improved towing apparatus for a rescue toboggan of a type which may be used to transport injured or incapacitated persons over snow and ice.

Abstract: An improved user programming method and apparatus for selecting central station features of a telecommunications device such as a telephone by means of voice prompts directly to the line user is disclosed. Prerecorded messages containing specific step by step instructions are used under the control of the central programming system. With such an arrangement, the features of each programmable button on a communications line may be remotely set up or programmed by a non technical user from his or her own phone. Additionally, a voice prompt system for programming a central programming controller may also be used to answer an incoming telephone call.

Abstract: An improved plastic, e.g., vinyl, window construction includes an exterior casing rigidly mounted to a window frame and which may advantageously be preattached to the window frame, allowing the window construction to be installed as a single unit. The exterior casing may include an exterior sill and may be constructed to provide the appearance of a traditional wooden window. In another aspect, a window construction with an integrated interior casing is also provided. In yet a further aspect, a method for manufacturing a plastic window construction with integrated exterior casing is provided.

Abstract: A bedding article includes a bottom panel and a top panel for receiving a baby. A plurality of fasteners secure the top and bottom panels and define a openings for receiving the lower torso and legs of the baby. A plurality of fasteners are spaced about the periphery of the bottom panel to releasably secure the bottom panel in a fixed position on a sleeping surface. In another aspect, the bedding article includes additional leg openings to allow selective placement of the child in a prone, supine, or side position. In further aspects, a pouch for receiving a portion of the baby and a garment worn by the baby for attachment to the bottom panel are provided. The bedding articles herein are advantageously used in conjunction with a mattress which is inclined to prevent the subject from sliding down the incline under the influence of gravity.

Abstract: The present invention offers an alternative method of tuning a meander line antenna. A layer of PN semiconductor material is inserted between a ground plane and a base element. A dc voltage is applied between the ground plane and the base element. A change in capacitance between the ground plane and the base element is effected. The impedance of the base element is thus changed, resulting in a change in the delay through the meander line tuning module as the propagation constant. This change in delay tunes the meander line antenna in the same manner as discrete switch elements by adjusting only a single voltage.

Abstract: The present invention is a cart that facilitates the unloading and loading of a toolbox from a vehicle used to transport the toolbox from one jobsite to another. Fundamentally, the cart comprises a support frame, with u-shaped wheel channels atop the frame, and wheel channel ramps pivotally connected to the frame such that the ramps can bridge the cart to a vehicle for loading or unloading a toolbox. The preferred embodiment of the invention has a frame that is rectangular in shape, and comprises vertical support legs connected by a plurality of lengthwise lower and top rails, and a plurality of transverse cross members. The top rails are u-shaped wheel channels that receive the wheels of the toolbox being loaded or unloaded from a vehicle. A pair of wheel channel ramps is pivotally connected to one end of the top rails, and when extended, the ramps can serve to connect the cart to the vehicle. The cart itself is fastened to and sits atop wheels such that the cart easily can be moved.