Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system for protecting surgeons, medical staff and other individuals from radiation and other forms of radiographic exposure. The system includes a stand positioned away from a patient operating table and comprising at least one shielding panel. The system may comprise another shielding panel that slides out from the at least one shielding panel. The system is configured to permit the free movement of a surgeon and medical staff without requiring any individual to wear a lead apron, body armor or zero-gravity suit to protect from radiating devices or equipment in the operating room.

Abstract: A retractable leash and collar/harness assembly. The assembly includes a hub that contains a spring member and leash line coiled and enclosed within the hub. The spring member and leash line remain in constant communication with each other. The hub contains an aperture through which the leash line can flow. Extending outwardly from the hub are snap buckles, one of which is structured to have a channel formed therein. The leash line can flow through the channel to a handle, which is contained within a pouch formed on the attached collar. When the leash is pulled, the handle separates from the pouch, followed by the leash line. Thus, when in use, the leash line follows a path of travel from the hub, through the snap buckle, through the pouch and into the external environment. In an alternative embodiment, the current invention may be a leash and harness assembly.

Abstract: A retractable leash and collar/harness assembly. The assembly includes a hub that contains a spring member and leash line coiled and enclosed within the hub. The spring member and leash line remain in constant communication with each other. The hub contains an aperture through which the leash line can flow. Extending outwardly from the hub are snap buckles, one of which is structured to have a channel formed therein. The leash line can flow through the channel to a handle, which is contained within a pouch formed on the attached collar. When the leash is pulled, the handle separates from the pouch, followed by the leash line. Thus, when in use, the leash line follows a path of travel from the hub, through the snap buckle, through the pouch and into the external environment. In an alternative embodiment, the current invention may be a leash and harness assembly.

Abstract: A retractable leash and collar/harness assembly. The assembly includes a hub that contains a spring member and leash line coiled and enclosed within the hub. The spring member and leash line remain in constant communication with each other. The hub contains an aperture through which the leash line can flow. Extending outwardly from the hub are snap buckles, one of which is structured to have a channel formed therein. The leash line can flow through the channel to a handle, which is contained within a pouch formed on the attached collar. When the leash is pulled, the handle separates from the pouch, followed by the leash line. Thus, when in use, the leash line follows a path of travel from the hub, through the snap buckle, through the pouch and into the external environment. In an alternative embodiment, the current invention may be a leash and harness assembly.

Abstract: A retractable leash and collar/harness assembly. The assembly includes a hub that contains a spring member and leash line coiled and enclosed within the hub. The spring member and leash line remain in constant communication with each other. The hub contains an aperture through which the leash line can flow. Extending outwardly from the hub are snap buckles, one of which is structured to have a channel formed therein. The leash line can flow through the channel to a handle, which is contained within a pouch formed on the attached collar. When the leash is pulled, the handle separates from the pouch, followed by the leash line. Thus, when in use, the leash line follows a path of travel from the hub, through the snap buckle, through the pouch and into the external environment. In an alternative embodiment, the current invention may be a leash and harness assembly.

Abstract: Consumers may be rewarded by monetizing downtime in an advertising supported environment. For example, a user may be presented with a message on a wireless or other unit. Including advertising, the message may solicit a response. A trivia question may be presented. During a sporting event, a user may receive a question about the game or players. In responding, the user may earn points toward an award. Users may earn points in other ways such as by providing personal information or preferences, registering or referring other users. Advertising also may be presented to the user when points are awarded or prizes redeemed. The information presented to the user, and when, where or how it is presented, may be based on the user's preferences or demographic information. Real-time or other reports tracking the user's viewing of advertising may be made available to the advertisers or other suppliers of presented information.

Abstract: An improved tool and method for vertically aligning bricks in a wall is provided. The tool may include an elongated member for placing against an outer face of a brick wall and a cross member for placing against a top course of brick in the brick wall. The cross member may be attached to the elongated member at a right angle thereto. Additionally, a position of a distal end of the cross member relative to the elongated member may be adjustable.