Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of immortalizing human stem cells by culturing human bone marrow stromal cells (hMSC), and transducting the cell cultures with a retroviral vector, comprising the human telomeric repeat subunit (hTRT) gene. Further, an immortalized stem cell line and its use are described. The immortalized stem cells may for example be used in the treatment of bone-fractures, bone loss associated with ageing and/or osteoporosis, and in tissue engineering.

Abstract: The invention is a pallet useful as a spacer with containers for heat transfer. The invention includes a plurality of longitudinal and lateral elongated U-shaped channel members having a bottom, sidewalls and flanges at the ends of sidewalls. Each of the members of one of the groups generally opposed to the members of the other group and at right angles to the other group with the bottom of each member of each group facing outward. Strengthening plates are disposed at the intersections of the members which are efficient in transferring thermal energy.