Abstract: The present invention relates generally to methods and compositions for targeting and delivering solid-phase platelet-dependent vascular occlusion agents. In particular, particles or coils or stents coated with platelet binding agents are directed to target vasculature, such as the vasculature of solid tumor masses or AV-malformations or aneurysms or endoleaks; the solid-phase agent then binds and activates platelets, which in turn bind and activate other platelets. This process results in the rapid formation of a platelet-mediated thrombus about the solid-phase agent causing vessel occlusion.

Abstract: A cardon joint is provided for mounting in a wall of a boiler to accommodate a sootblower lance and to allow the lance to be manipulated with respect to the boiler wall. The cardon joint includes a wall box having a central opening. An outer ball having a substantially spherical outer surface and a central bore is mounted for axial rotation about a first axis within the central opening of the wall box. An inner ball having a substantially spherical outer surface and a central bore is mounted for axial rotation about a second axis within the central bore of the outer ball. The first and second axes are mutually orthogonal and the central bore of the inner ball is sized to accommodate the lance of a sootblower. As the lance is manipulated to clean an opposite wall of the boiler, the inner and outer balls rotate about their axes to accommodate the manipulation.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for determining platelet function in a mammal comprising providing platelets from the mammal, contacting the platelets in suspension with at least one immobilised ECM protein or an effective fragment or analog thereof while applying to the platelets an effective mechanical stimulus for an effective period of time and determining the platelet activation produced.The invention provides a method for monitoring the efficacy of pharmacological agents affecting platelet function in vivo and in vitro.

Abstract: The invention provides phospholipid coated particles capable of specifically binding antiphospholipid antibodies and a method for preparing such particles. Methods are also provided for determining antiphospholipid antibodies in a serum or plasma. Also provided are methods for isolating antiphospholipid antibodies from a fluid and for raising specific antiphospholipid antibodies.

Abstract: A collapsible cage for dogs or rabbits has a rectangular base, fold-down end walls folding side walls and a roof. The walls and roof are made of metal grids. The end walls fold down onto the base one over the other. The side walls fold in the middle concertina-wise and are hinged at the top to opposite edges of the roof allowing the side walls and roof to collapse onto the base over the end walls. The base has a pull-out tray or pan and an access door is provided in one of the end walls. Releasable clips are provided to hold the walls and roof together in an elevated position of the structure.

Abstract: The invention provides phospholipid coated particles capable of specifically binding antiphospholipid antibodies and a method for preparing such particles. Methods are also provided for determining antiphospholipid antibodies in a serum or plasma. Also provided are methods for isolating antiphospholipid antibodies from a fluid and for raising specific antiphospholipid antibodies.

Abstract: A collapsible cage for dogs or rabbits has a rectangular base, fold-down end walls folding side walls and a roof. The walls and roof are made of metal grids. The end walls fold down onto the base one over the other. The side walls fold in the middle concertina-wise and are hinged at the top to opposite edges of the roof allowing the side walls and roof to collapse onto the base over the end walls. The base has a pull-out tray or pan and an access door is provided in one of the end walls. Releasable clips are provided to hold the walls and roof together in an elevated position of the structure.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for determining platelet function in a mammal comprising providing platelets from the mammal, contacting the platelets in suspension with at least one immobilised ECM protein or an effective fragment or analog thereof while applying to the platelets an effective mechanical stimulus for an effective period of time and determining the platelet activation produced.The invention also provides a method for detecting a bleeding disorder in a human. Further, the invention provides a method for monitoring the efficacy of pharmacological agents affecting platelet function in vivo.