Abstract: Embodiments are disclosed of a fashion accessory, a cord for use in a fashion accessory, and a coupler for use in a fashion accessory. In one embodiment, the fashion accessory comprises a flexible cord comprising multiple nodules and a filament portion adjacent each nodule. The fashion accessory further comprises a substantially rigid coupler comprising two end portions connected by a keel portion. An embodiment of a flexible cord for use in a fashion accessory comprises at least two nodules spaced apart along the length of the cord and a filament portion adjacent each of the at least two nodules. An embodiment of a substantially rigid coupler for use in a fashion accessory comprises a first end portion comprising a first bore hole and first slot, a second end portion comprising a second bore hole and second slot, and a keel portion connecting the first and second end portions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device to control the spread of airborne pathogens emanating from a cough. The device has an elongated substantially hollow body comprising a longitudinal axis and opposite proximal and distal openings. The proximal opening defines a region for engaging the device with the mouth of a user that allows exhaled air from a cough to enter an interior space of the elongated body. An end member is removably engaged to the distal opening of the elongated body. The end member has an elongated substantially hollow body comprising a longitudinal axis connecting a proximal opening and a distal wall. The proximal opening of the end member is engaged with the distal opening of the elongated body. The distal wall of the end member has one or more openings to permit air flow therethrough. A filter element is positioned within the end member adjacent the distal wall.

Abstract: A balance training device is a platform for standing upon that allows inserts with pads to be adjusted and inserted to provide varying degrees of instability. The upper surface of an insert, or pedestal, may include multiple protuberances positioned at or near the periphery of the upper surface and a comparatively lower region between the protuberances and at or near the center of the upper surface. The platform, or base unit, may be configured to support two or more inserts simultaneously, and the inserts may be of differing height or have different numbers of protuberances. A method of balance training includes removably connecting a pedestal to the base unit and standing upon an upper surface of the pedestal. Use of the balance training device may provide improved training safety for participants in group performance activities such as cheerleading.