Abstract: A coupler device is described for joining together two adjacent members 7,17 and in particular structural members which may for example may be tunnel segments, well segments, building segments, precast concrete members, preformed panels and other items used in but not limited to the construction industry. The coupler device has an elongate body 2 carrying spaced apart first and second projecting portions 6,16, wherein each of the first and second projecting portions is configured to be received within a complementarily recessed portion 8,18 in a face of a respective member and thereby in use to join together the two respective members.

Abstract: A method for converting animal cells into brown adipose tissue cells is provided that includes transforming the animal cells using an expression vector. The expression vector includes a nucleotide sequence encoding HB-EGF operatively linked to a promoter and a nucleotide sequence encoding ADAM 12 operatively linked to a promoter. Converting animal cells to brown adipose tissue cells can be used to treat obesity or to treat cancer by converting target cells to brown adipose tissue cells.

Abstract: An apparatus for separating a mineral from a slurry of mineral and impurities, including a fluid vessel having a first, open end and a second end and a feed well disposed near the first end. The feed well has a first, open end, for receiving the slurry, and a second end. At least one first member is received through the first ends of the vessel and the feed well for providing aerated water, creating a froth in the feed well including substantially the mineral. The mineral froth substantially separates from the impurities and floats out of the feed well towards the first end of the vessel, and a collection unit receives the mineral froth. The impurities and any remaining mineral fall toward the second end of the vessel. A measurement unit is placed within the vessel for measuring at least one of density and pressure of the fluid in the vessel.