Abstract: Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods herein relate to non-invasive cardiac monitoring of a cardiac parameter such as blood pressure. These systems and methods may receive and process user and cohort cardiac data to generate mechanical cardiac parameter values used to estimate blood pressure. In some variations, a method may include the steps of receiving mechanical cardiac data of a user measured using an accelerometer. A mechanical cardiac parameter value for a first time period and a second time period may be generated from the mechanical cardiac data. The blood pressure of the user may be estimated based on a change in the mechanical cardiac parameter value between the first and second time periods.

Abstract: A device is provided for the easy engagement of a necktie around the neck of a user in an as-used position. The device employs a curved resilient member having a gap between its distal ends which eliminates the over tightening such neckties produce on the user's neck. The curved member will dismount when force is exerted to the tie sufficient to overcome the inward bias of the curved member providing a user a secure yet easily disengageable mount for their necktie.

Abstract: A content presentation environment enables a primary content source to be presented to a user, along with supplemental content that may relate to the primary content or, may be completely unrelated (such as an advertisement). As the primary content is presented, supplemental content is either automatically presented or made available for selection by a user. In addition, a user may select and add additional supplemental content to be associated with or incorporated into the presentation environment.

Abstract: A graphical interface for presenting the relationship between a primary content item and multiple supplemental content items. A progression bar corresponding to the rendering or playback of the primary content is provided to show the progression through the primary content. A series of graphic elements, each corresponding to a supplemental content item are associated with a position along the progression bar. As a cursor moves across the progression bar indicating progressing through the primary content, supplemental content associated with the cursors position becomes available for viewing. Graphical enhancements of the graphic elements provide indicators that the supplemental content items are becoming relevant and available for viewing.

Abstract: A hand held measuring device for measuring for construction or other industries using measuring tapes to ascertain measurements. The device features an extendable tape engaged to an electronic sensor communicating the measurement to a data processor and digital display. Software operating on the data processor stores and employs the taken measurements to estimate time and materials for a given industry. The software may be changed by engaging a memory card with industry specific software adapted to employ the measurements taken for calculations. A camera will take digital photos of measured areas and store them in association with individual measurements. A second video display provides a software driven graphic interface for display and input of data.

Abstract: A hand held measuring device for measuring for construction or other industries using measuring tapes to ascertain measurements. The device features an extendable tape engaged to an electronic sensor communicating the measurement to a data processor and digital display. Software operating on the data processor stores and employs the taken measurements to estimate time and materials for a given industry. The software may be changed by engaging a memory card with industry specific software adapted to employ the measurements taken for calculations. A camera will take digital photos of measured areas and store them in association with individual measurements. A second video display provides a software driven graphic interface for display and input of data.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for automated on-the-fly dispensing of reagents. The apparatus includes a detachable reagent dispensing module supported by a support frame. The dispensing module includes a self-contained pressurized fluid delivery subsystem that facilitates efficient attachment and detachment of the module, including pressurized reagent containers and associated accessories arranged such that each reagent container has a discrete fluid path terminating at a corresponding discrete reagent dispensing tip. The dispensing tips are supported in a common dispensing head, and are arranged geometrically such that the centers of the dispensing tips are separated by distances corresponding to relevant dimensions of particular assay plates to be used therewith. Such a geometric arrangement allows for dispensing of multiple reagents substantially simultaneously into multiple corresponding target wells of the assay plate, efficiently and precisely.

Abstract: A high-security shackleless lock is provided. The lock includes a shackle pin adapted to move between a closed position extending across a lock body recess to engage a staple; and an open, staple-free position. A lock bar mounted entirely within the lock body can be move between a closed shackle pin engaging position to retain the shackle pin in its staple-engaging position, and an open shackle pin-free position wherein the shackle pin does not extend across the lock body and cannot engage a staple. A shackle pin spring urges the shackle into its open position, and a lock bar spring urges the lock bar into its closed position. The shackle pin has a distal end formed with a head element of extended dimensions. The lock body defines a recess adapted to closely confront the shackle pin head when the shackle pin is located in its closed position.

Abstract: A high-security shackleless lock is provided. The lock includes a shackle pin adapted to move between a closed position extending across a lock body recess to engage a staple; and an open, staple-free position. A lock bar mounted entirely within the lock body can be move between a closed shackle pin engaging position to retain the shackle pin in its staple-engaging position, and an open shackle pin-free position wherein the shackle pin does not extend across the lock body and cannot engage a staple. A shackle pin spring urges the shackle into its open position, and a lock bar spring urges the lock bar into its closed position. The shackle pin has a distal end formed with a head element of extended dimensions. The lock body defines a recess adapted to closely confront the shackle pin head when the shackle pin is located in its closed position.