Abstract: Disclosed is a non-toxic composition and methods for controlling and preventing lice infestations. The composition of the invention controls louse populations with daily use. The composition of the invention may be used on the hair, body, and on inanimate objects. The viscous liquid composition of the invention may be applied as a shampoo, body cleanser, or detergent.

Abstract: Disclosed are several preferred embodiments of hydrogen peroxide which are packaged with ease of use and extended shelf-life in mind. The embodiments include foam, mist, gel, and disposable towelette forms of H2O2. Optional ingredients of topical pain relievers and skin protectants are also disclosed, as are their methods of use.

Abstract: The invention discloses a natural treatment for ecto-parasitic infestation, particularly effective against lice be it head, body or pubic. A preferred gel composition includes a salt, a plant essence, and a pharmaceutically acceptable gelling agent. Besides gel, the composition designed for use on scalp hair may be formulated as a shampoo, a detangling spray conditioner, mousse, hair spray, or hair styling emulsion. The composition may be formulated as an ointment or lotion for topical use in areas with sparse hair. The invention also discloses a method of use of the composition, which is especially suited for treatment of the hair of infested children. The composition and method benefit from the soothing effects of aroma therapy. An additional benefit is that ecto-parasites do not develop resistance to the composition, which may be used repeatedly with no ill effects to the host.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for in vitro maturation of a human gamete by culturing an immature human gamete in a chemically defined cell culture medium. The human gamete can be a spermatocyte or an oocyte. The maturation end point is metaII. The advantage of the described medium is a synchronised cumulus-, cytoand nuclear maturation completed within a period of 20 to 30 hours. The medium should preferably contain ATA (Aurin Tri Carboxylicacid) as an anti-apototic agent. The medium should preferably not contain BSA, HSA or other directly serum derived products or substances.

Abstract: A manual tool for imparting a textured surface to a wall, ceiling or other rigid surface. The tool comprises a rigid, flat, thin tool blade, having a plurality of holes irregularly distributed thereon. The holes are preferably irregular in shape and have major dimension in the range 0.5 to 1.25 inch. A handle for grasping and manipulating the tool is attached to a first side of the tool blade. A rectangular blade version of the tool is used for texturing corner areas, and a circular blade version of the tool is used for non-corner areas. In use, joint compound is applied to a second, opposite side of the blade and then daubed onto a surface area. The tool is then repeatedly pressed against and withdrawn from the area until a desired surface texture is achieved, the texture becoming progressively finer with each repetition. After a drying period, the coated, textured surface is leveled by moving a leveling blade across the surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for in vitro maturation of a human oocyte by culturing an immature human oocyte in a cell culture medium for 10-30 hours. The maturation end point is metaphase II.