Abstract: A device (10) for raising and lowering an impaired person between the ground and a higher level for boarding and deplaning from an airplane. The device (10) comprises a wheeled frame (12) and a hydraulic lift for raising and lowering the person (14). The hydraulic lift (14) extends upwardly from the wheeled frame (12). The device (10) also comprises a platform (16) oriented transversely in relation to the hydraulic lift (14), the platform (16) being adapted for supporting the impaired person or a wheelchair in which the person reposes. The device (10) also has a protective enclosure (18) mounted upon the platform (16) which surrounds the impaired person.

Abstract: A method for developing new varieties of plants which host an endophytic fungus, said fungus conferring enhanced performance on its plant host. The method comprises selecting a maternal parent which hosts an endophytic fungus capable of enhancing its host plant's performance. A paternal parent plant of the same or of a different variety as the maternal parent plant is selected. The selected maternal parent plant is then crossed with the selected paternal parent plant. The progeny of the cross which have the desired enhanced-performance characteristics are themselves selected. These progeny are then sexually or asexually propagated and the seed, vegetative propagules, or disseminules harvested.

Abstract: A wheelchair and drive mechanism powered by reciprocating operation of a drive lever. The drive mechanism provides a continuously variable gear ratio allowing wheelchair operation at varying speeds and on differing inclines; and is readily fitted to a standard wheelchair by a drive-associated bayonet mount. A drive mechanism ratchet wheel includes an upper and lower radial crank secured for rotation thereabout by an axle. Each crank includes a pawl assembly that engages with circumferential ratchet wheel teeth to transfer drive energy supplied to the radial cranks from connecting arms to the ratchet wheel. The connecting arms are coupled to a reciprocating lever arm and operate in concert with the pawls to alternately engage with and transfer energy to the ratchet wheel, or disengage therefrom. While one connecting arm and associated pawl is transferring energy to the ratchet wheel, the other connecting arm is disengaging an associated pawl from the ratchet wheel.