Abstract: A promotional system is provided that receives a promotional item and promotional campaign information comprising rules for distributing and tracking a plurality of offers including at least one promotional item, stores the promotional item and promotional campaign information comprising rules for distributing and tracking the plurality of offers, and obtains one promotional item and provides one offer comprising one code (or one validation element) with one promotional item and transmits the offer The design further includes obtaining the validation element or code provided from a user or user computing device at a point of sale, triggering a redemption indication for the promotional item. The design also includes receiving the redemption indication for the promotional item and limiting further use of the promotional item according to established rules maintained at the computing device.

Abstract: This present invention relates to an alloy comprising Sn, at least one of Ti and Zr and at least one of Nb and Ta as the major elements. The total percentage of the Nb and Ta in the alloy material is preferably from 8 to 20 atom % and the percentage of the Sn in the alloy material is preferably from 2 to 6 atom %. The alloy material is preferably Ni-free and has shape memory characteristics or superelasticity.

Abstract: Orthodontic appliances in accordance with the present invention are formed from amorphous alloys having a supercooling liquid region. The appliances have high corrosion resistance, high durability and high strength. The appliances are particularly useful when changes and adjustments in the orthodontic state become necessary in the course of orthodontic treatment. The present invention also provides improvements in the base surfaces of orthodontic appliances adapted to be bonded to tooth surfaces. The appliances can consequently be securely affixed to tooth surfaces.

Abstract: Orthodontic appliances formed of a titanium alloy which substantially avoids toxic or allergic reactions in patients containing a .beta.-stabilizing element including at least 12 wt % molybdenum to produce a stable .beta.-monophase at body temperature are disclosed. The yield strength of the titanium alloy is within the range 1150 to 1450 MPa. The tensile strength of the titanium alloy is within the range 1350 to 1950 MPa. The elongation of the titanium alloy is within the range 10 to 14%. The titanium alloy may also contain about 5 wt % zirconium as another .beta.-stabilizing element. It may also contain about 3 wt % aluminum to improve age hardenability by strengthening the .alpha.-phase.

Abstract: Orthodontic appliances in accordance with the present invention are formed from amorphous alloys having a supercooling liquid region. The appliances have high corrosion resistance, high durability and high strength. The appliances are particularly useful when changes and adjustments in the orthodontic state become necessary in the course of orthodontic treatment. The present invention also provides improvements in the base surfaces of orthodontic appliances adapted to be bonded to tooth surfaces. The appliances can consequently be securely affixed to tooth surfaces.