Abstract: A method for universally distributing a therapeutic agent, in an encapsulated form, to the brain of a subject using intrathecal administration, excluding the lumbar region, is described. Methods for treating stroke and/or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) are also described. The methods involve intrathecal administration into the cerebrospinal fluid of a subject, of a therapeutic agent in an encapsulated form. Pharmaceutical compositions intended for the amelioration of stroke and/or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) are also described. The pharmaceutical compositions comprise a therapeutic agent encapsulated in a pharmaceutically acceptable polymer, suitable for injection into the cerebrospinal fluid of a subject suffering from stroke and/or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Abstract: A setting (10) is disclosed for removably receiving decorative articles such as gemstones (12) and pictures. The setting includes a lower member (15) and an upper member (13), each having left and right side segments (20, 22, 26, 28) that are hingedly attached by left and right pivot pins (24, 30). The side segments (20, 26) of the lower member (15) define a plane (18) along which the gemstone (12) is free to slide when inserting into and removing from the setting (10). The upper member (13) of the setting can be pivoted from a closed position where stop surfaces (54, 56) intersect the plane (18) and hold the gemstone (12) captive within the setting to an open position where the stop surfaces (54, 56) are well away from the plane (18), thereby permitting the removal of the gemstone (12).