Abstract: The disclosed apparatus comprises a substantially optically clear glass tube configured for the introduction of solid-state materials. A piston is inserted into each end of the glass tube, which is compressed inward via a securing spring positioned between the back of the piston head and an end cap threaded over the glass tube's threads to press down on an O-ring (or septum or gasket) to ensure an airtight seal, and configured to apply a controllable pressure to compress the solid-state materials. An O-ring is in contact with each of the pistons to seal the glass tube. The apparatus is configured for in-situ testing of the solid-state materials and visualizing the solid-state material. Data from the solid-state materials is received via the electrically conductive interface of the pistons, which are constructed of copper. The apparatus is designed to be reusable.

Abstract: Methods and systems for delivering a very potent vasodilator that has the ability to treat and prevent heart failure including delivering microcapsules containing ?-CGRP, which show no toxicity and lowers blood pressure similar to the native peptide, where this new compound could greatly enhance the lifespan of patients suffering from heart failure.

Abstract: NMEG-?CGRP, a biologically active molecule, and systems and methods of use therefore, subcutaneous administration of NMEG-?CGRP, a non-toxic peptoid-peptide hybrid that possesses hypotensive action, employed as a therapeutic agent to treat and prevent various cardiovascular diseases, including, heart failure (pressure. as well as volume, overload), myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy, and hypertension.

Abstract: Use of metformin in inhibition of growth and/or viability of human neuroblastoma cells is described. Use of metformin in inhibition of growth and/or viability of neuroblastoma cancer stem cells is also described. The metformin is shown to be effective both in vitro and in vivo in inhibition of growth and/or viability of neuroblastoma cells of multiple different genetic backgrounds.

Abstract: Use of sparstolonin B in inhibition of growth and/or viability of human neuroblastoma cells is described. The sparstolonin B can be naturally derived from the Chinese herb Sparganium stoloniferum or can be synthetic. The sparstolonin B is shown to be effective both in vitro and in vivo in inhibition of growth and/or viability of neuroblastoma cells of multiple different genetic backgrounds including N-myc amplified with wild p53 neuroblastoma cells, N-myc amplified with mutated p53 neuroblastoma cells, and N-myc nonamplified neuroblastoma cells.

Abstract: Use of sparstolonin B in inhibition of growth and/or viability of human neuroblastoma cells is described. The sparstolonin B can be naturally derived from the Chinese herb Sparganium stoloniferum or can be synthetic. The sparstolonin B is shown to be effective both in vitro and in vivo in inhibition of growth and/or viability of neuroblastoma cells of multiple different genetic backgrounds including N-myc amplified with wild p53 neuroblastoma cells, N-myc amplified with mutated p53 neuroblastoma cells, and N-myc nonamplified neuroblastoma cells.