Abstract: An inhaler for delivery of a medicament by inhalation includes an inhaler body for receiving a canister having a dispensing valve. A drive mechanism is provided for driving the canister from a rest position in which the valve is closed to an actuating position in which the valve is open. A resetting mechanism is provided for resetting the drive mechanism. A return mechanism is provided for returning the canister from the actuating position to the rest position, wherein the return mechanism comprises a damping system that is configured to enable the canister to automatically return from the actuating position to the rest position within a predetermined time period. A method of operation of an inhaler is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method comprising: receiving a first image captured on an image sensor; obtaining a scene estimate for the first image, wherein the scene estimate comprises an estimate of the background signal for a region of space being imaged onto the sensor; storing the scene estimate in memory; receiving a plurality of successive images, wherein for each one of the successive images, the field of view is shifted with respect to the preceding image and overlaps partially with that of the preceding image; for each one of the successive images: retrieving the scene estimate from memory; subtracting the scene estimate from the image to obtain a background-subtracted image for output; updating the scene estimate based on the signal detected at the location on the image sensor to which the region of space is being imaged; and replacing the scene estimate stored in memory with the updated scene estimate.

Abstract: The invention provides a gene silencing molecule, which is adapted to down-regulate expression of a gene encoding a peptide involved with the Rho-A inhibitory pathway. The gene silencing molecule is used to promote neuron survival and axon regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). The invention also provides compositions and methods of using same to improve neural survival and promote axonal growth.

Abstract: The invention provides a gene silencing molecule, which is adapted to down-regulate expression of a gene encoding a peptide involved with the Rho-A inhibitory pathway. The gene silencing molecule is used to promote neuron survival and axon regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). The invention also provides compositions and methods of using same to improve neural survival and promote axonal growth.

Abstract: Devices useful in the delivery of DNA encoding neurotrophic agents, anti-fibrotic agents, and related compositions are disclosed herein for use in the treatment of central and/or peripheral nervous system injury. Methods of making and using the disclosed devices and DNA are also described. In various embodiments, the invention also discloses compositions and devices that may further include a targeting agent, such as a polypeptide that is reactive with an FGF receptor (e.g., bFGF), or another ligand that binds to cell surface receptors on neuronal cells, or a support cell. The invention also discloses methods of promoting neuronal survival and regeneration via transfection of an axon as it grows through a device or composition of the present invention, or via transfection of a repair cell.

Abstract: A golf assistance device for placing a golf ball, the device having different embodiments. One embodiment may be used to place a golf ball and tee while another embodiment of the device may be used to pick up and/or place a golf ball on the ground without a tee. Another embodiment of the device may be adjusted such that the ball and tee are set a desired height. The legs of the device may be locked such that the device may be left unattended in a standing position. However, when inverted, the legs may collapse against the handle of the device to facilitate storing the device in a golf bag.

Abstract: A golf assistance device for placing a golf ball, the device having different embodiments. One embodiment may be used to place a golf ball and tee while another embodiment of the device may be used to pick up and/or place a golf ball on the ground without a tee. Another embodiment of the device may be adjusted such that the ball and tee are set a desired height. The legs of the device may be locked such that the device may be left unattended in a standing position. However, when inverted, the legs may collapse against the handle of the device to facilitate storing the device in a golf bag.

Abstract: In embodiments, cranberries are utilized at certain phases of development, prior to full red color development, which are typically characterized by an acid profile conducive to producing flavorful, high-value products, such as juices. At select phases of development, the berries have a quinic acid content which is similar to fully red berries but a citric acid content which is much higher than fully red berries. As a result, the juice from these berries can be used with less need to add citric acid or citric acid juice, like lemon juice, to modify flavor. The berries at the select phase of development typically have a light color, from pink to white, which can be quantified based on the anthocyanin level in the fruit or the resulting juice.

Abstract: Improved apparatus for collecting particles from air comprises a cyclone having air inlet and outlet means, means maintaining an airflow there through and means delivering a collecting fluid from a reservoir to particles separated from the air flow in the cyclone, in which the air inlet means is associated with means for heating the incoming air. The apparatus, which is optionally provided with enclosure means for trapping heat, prevents freezing of the collecting fluid at temperatures near to and even below 0° C.

Abstract: Devices useful in the delivery of DNA encoding neurotrophic agents, anti-fibrotic agents, and related compositions are disclosed herein for use in the treatment of central and/or peripheral nervous system injury. Methods of making and using the disclosed devices and DNA are also described. In various embodiments, the invention also discloses compositions and devices that may further include a targeting agent, such as a polypeptide that is reactive with an FGF receptor (e.g., bFGF), or another ligand that binds to cell surface receptors on neuronal cells, or a support cell. The invention also discloses methods of promoting neuronal survival and regeneration via transfection of an axon as it grows through a device or composition of the present invention, or via transfection of a repair cell.

Abstract: The invention features a method for promoting neural growth in vivo in the mammalian central nervous system by delivering a composition comprising a combination of neurotrophins to promote neural growth. Active fragments, cognates, congeners, mimics, analogs, secreting cells and soluble molecules thereof, and DNA molecules, vectors and transformed cells capable of expressing them are similarly utilizable in the methods of the instant invention.

Abstract: Devices useful in the delivery of DNA encoding neurotrophic agents, anti-fibrotic agents, and related compositions are disclosed herein for use in the treatment of central and/or peripheral nervous system injury. Methods of making and using the disclosed devices and DNA are also described. In various embodiments, the invention also discloses compositions and devices that may further include a targeting agent, such as a polypeptide that is reactive with an FGF receptor (e.g., bFGF), or another ligand that binds to cell surface receptors on neuronal cells, or a support cell. The invention also discloses methods of promoting neuronal survival and regeneration via transfection of an axon as it grows through a device or composition of the present invention, or via transfection of a repair cell.