Abstract: Peptide analogues of ?-amyloid and methods of using said analogues for neuroprotection are described herein. The ?-amyloid peptide analogues have a sequence that is at least 50% identical to an N-terminal ?-amyloid core fragment. A pharmaceutical composition of the ?-amyloid peptide analogues in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier can be administered to a subject for neuromodulation. The ?-amyloid peptide analogues, while lacking neurotoxicity, effectively provides for protective activity against ?-amyloid toxicity.

Abstract: Peptide analogues of ?-amyloid and methods of using said analogues for neuroprotection are described herein. The ?-amyloid peptide analogues have a sequence that is at least 50% identical to an N-terminal ?-amyloid core fragment. A pharmaceutical composition of the ?-amyloid peptide analogues in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier can be administered to a subject for neuromodulation. The ?-amyloid peptide analogues, while lacking neurotoxicity, effectively provides for protective activity against ?-amyloid toxicity.

Abstract: An electronic voting system includes a controller and one or more voting stations. The voting stations each have a liquid crystal display that is electronically configurable to present voters with ballot information. A mobile ballot box includes memory storage that is used to transport electronic ballot data to and from an election headquarters. The visual display on the LCD at the casting of each ballot is checked against electronic records of votes, as they are stored. The electronic ballot information includes a plurality of ballot styles that the controller selectively provides to the voting stations depending upon voter authorization corresponding to a particular style. The voting stations may be retrofitted with access units that facilitate voting by disabled or physically challenged persons. A complete audit trail is maintained of all operator interaction with the controller.

Abstract: An electronic voting system includes a controller and one or more voting stations. The voting stations each have a liquid crystal display that is electronically configurable to present voters with ballot information. A mobile ballot box includes memory storage that is used to transport electronic ballot data to and from an election headquarters. The visual display on the LCD at the casting of each ballot is checked against electronic records of votes, as they are stored. The electronic ballot information includes a plurality of ballot styles that the controller selectively provides to the voting stations depending upon voter authorization corresponding to a particular style. The voting stations may be retrofitted with access units that facilitate voting by disabled or physically challenged persons. A complete audit trail is maintained of all operator interaction with the controller.

Abstract: A system and method for determining the concentration of an analyte such as oxygen in an unknown gas sample. A Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) is used as a variable wavelength light source which is "swept" through a wavelength range by varying the drive signal applied thereto. Quantitative spectroscopic analysis of the unknown gas sample is performed without the requirement of feedback circuitry for tuning the light source to the characteristic frequency of an analyte. Instead, the VCSEL is repeatedly "swept" through a range of frequencies determined by the drive signal, and the absorption is measured by the detector. The absorption lines do not always occur at the same place but instead move along around during the sweep based on the temperature and baseline current. The absorption at a particular wavelength may be determined by overlaying the drive signal and its timing information over the detected absorption signal.

Abstract: The system of the preferred embodiment of the invention contains a processor as well as a permanently mounted programmable FLASH memory in which the firmware resides. The system makes use of a socket in which a memory device can be installed. The socket accepts a firmware update memory device which has stored thereon the firmware revisions or replacement firmware. Once the firmware update memory device is installed, the processor downloads the instructions contained therein to the permanent FLASH memory device. Once the program is transferred to the permanent memory, the system operation is not dependent on the reliability of the socket. In addition, program changes can be input to the system without requiring that the system be equipped with a data input/output device, such as a modem, floppy disk drive or the like.

Abstract: A monitor system for an oximeter that sequentially tests the operative conditions of light emitting devices of the oximeter, the light detector of the oximeter, and the reference voltage of the oximeter. Data processing means is responsive to the determined test values for indicating the occurrence of the test values outside of predetermined ranges corresponding to the respective test value.

Abstract: A low wattage electrical resistance heating element is supported within a tubular housing, and an elongated flexible support band is adjustably connected to the housing and extends over a wall-mounted thermostat for suspending the housing in vertically adjustable relation directly below the thermostat. An electrical power cord extends from the heating element through the housing to an electrical power supply, and energizing of the heating element produces a convection current of heated air upwardly through the housing. The heated air mixes with ambient air and flows into the thermostat to provide an air temperature higher than ambient air temperature so that the heating system is controlled in a manner to maintain an ambient air temperature lower than the setting of the thermostat.