Abstract: The invention is a scrolling apparatus may be incorporated into an input device, such as a pointing device or a keyboard, for example, and operatively connected to a host computer to scroll an image along multiple axes relative to a display screen. The scrolling apparatus includes a rotatable member with the configuration of a wheel or a ball. In addition, the scrolling apparatus includes a depressible actuator located around the rotatable member. Both the rotatable member and the actuator, which scroll the image in different scrolling directions or at different scrolling velocities, for example, may be utilized for scrolling the image.

Abstract: A scroll wheel assembly includes a rotatable member. Encoded rotation of the rotating member causes scrolling of an image on a display screen along an axis. An actuator is located within the rotational member. Pressure on different parts of the actuator causes scrolling of the image in opposing directions along a second axis. Pressure upon additional parts of the actuator can provide additional screen functions. Functions and commands caused by manipulation of the rotatable member or actuator may also be programmable.

Abstract: A mouse has sufficient width to support the distal phalanges of a user's ring finger and little finger while the user's middle finger is positioned over a secondary button of the mouse. The mouse also provides at least one side button positioned so that it is not contacted by the user's thumb during “pinching” of the mouse but is easily accessible by the user's thumb. In addition, the mouse provides a wheel with a large number of ribs that increase friction between the user's finger and the wheel.

Abstract: A two component dental composition is disclosed which eliminates or substantially reduces the discomfort and pain associated with dentinal hypersensitivity which composition comprises a first dentifrice component having a neutral pH in the range of about 6.5 to 7.5 buffered with a phosphate salt, a second dentifrice component having an alkaline pH in the range of 6.5 to 7.5 and at least one of the components containing a potassium ion releasable compound and a fluoride ion releasable salt, the first and second components being maintained separate from each other until dispensed and combined for application to teeth requiring relief from dentine hypersensitivity, whereby heightened desensitization is experienced by the user.

Abstract: A method is provided for optimizing fluoride ion uptake on teeth wherein a liquid dentifrice composition which contains in an orally acceptable vehicle an abrasive and a fluoride ion releasable fluoride at a concentration sufficient to release 3000 to 6000 ppm fluoride ion, the viscosity of the composition ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 cps. Fluoride ion uptake and its accompanying anticaries benefit is optimized when the composition is administered during tooth brushing.

Abstract: A dental composition which eliminates or substantially reduces the discomfort and pain associated with dentinal hypersensitivity and exhibits enhanced anticaries and remineralization benefits which composition contains a fluoride ion and a potassium ion releasable salt and has a pH in the range of about 8 to about 9.9, the pH being buffered with phosphate salt.