Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for testing eggs by means of mechanical vibrations, comprising: support means for supporting an egg for testing; an exciter for exciting the egg for testing; a transducer for receiving the vibrations generated in the egg by the exciter and for converting the vibrations into electrical signals; and a measuring instrument connected to the transducer for analyzing the electrical signals coming from the transducer, wherein the exciter is adapted to excite the egg for testing with a single blow.

Abstract: A method for modulating the immune system by administering one or more vitamin D (analogues) to a subject in need of immune therapy, which method may (but need not) include simultaneous treatment with a second immune system modulating active agent. Preferably, the treatment method is used to induce primary or secondary prevention of type I diabetes in a subject susceptible to type I diabetes. Administration of the vitamin D (analogues) is enteral or parenteral.

Abstract: The invention relates to an instrument set for laparoscopic vaginal hysterectomy which comprises a uterine rotator comprising a rod with a uterine end for insertion into the uterus and a control end, and with at least one wing moveable in and out of the uterine end which in a folded-out position makes contact with the inner wall of the uterus and which is connected via coupling means to a control member located at the control end, wherein the rod is preferably provided with two wings, and more preferably the rod is provided with a hinge, and with optionally at least one artery forceps provided with a handle and mutually reciprocating jaws.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composite material comprising a three-dimensional textile structure which comprises at least two textile layers which are located at a mutual distance and which are mutually connected by looped-round pile threads, and at least one matrix with which at least this textile layer is provided, and a vapour/moisture-permeable textile layer contacting the body.

Abstract: An insufflation system which provides continuous insufflation at a pre-set, limited low insufflation gas pressure and a high insufflation gas flow, thereby avoiding the necessity of measuring the intra-abdominal pressure while insuring that a determined pre-adjustable maximum insufflation gas pressure cannot be exceeded. The system comprises a gas delivery line having an inlet end coupled to a source of insufflation gas and an outlet end for connecting to the gas inlet of a surgical laser-equipped endoscope. A pressure adjustment device is connected into the gas delivery line for establishing a maximum insufflation gas flow pressure in the gas delivery line, and a gas exhaust tube that can be introduced into the body cavity provides for exhausting of insufflation gas delivered to the body cavity solely by the gas delivery line via the endoscope.