Abstract: An apparatus and method for inserting a stopper into a medical syringe minimizing the amount of entrapped air between the stopper and the contained liquid. The apparatus in a first embodiment utilizes a vacuum to assist inserting the stopper within the syringe. In a second embodiment a vacuum is used to transport the stopper and cause the insertion into the syringe. This method eliminates a mechanical device that transports the stopper to the syringe.

Abstract: A method of promoting functional recovery and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation following an acute physical insult to the central nervous system, comprising administering to a mammalian patient which has suffered an acute physical insult to the central nervous system an initial dose of L-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate (“OTC”) or a variant thereof is disclosed. This method preferably further includes the step of administering a number of subsequent doses of OTC or a variant thereof as subsequent time periods. Also provided is a use of OTC or a variant thereof in the preparation of a medicament useful in reducing inflammation in the central nervous system and promoting the functional recovery of a mammalian patient which has suffered an acute physical insult to the central nervous system, such as neurotrauma, stroke or aneurysm.

Abstract: The porosity and integrity of a nonconductive material is determined using electron beams and electronic instrumentation. The electric corona discharge from holes in the nonconductive material is detected and analyzed in order to determine the presence of viral and sub-viral sized voids or holes, as well as other material anomalies such as blisters and bubbles.