So, I'm trying to play and am wondering if a can get a few pointers?

1. I don't find many keyboard shortcuts other than the center of the bpad for operational functions in the game and the escape key, are there others that I haven't figured out yet?
2. Is there a way to avoid the opening sequence every time the game is launched?
3. How do you use an item you pick up? I'm just in the beginning and pick up the rod, but how to use it on the door?

Thanks for any advice...