Abstract: Compositions and methods relating to the regulation of transport of cholesterol into the mitochondria of a cell and, therefore, for the regulation of steroidogenesis are provided. Compositions include nucleic acid molecules encoding a steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), StAR protein molecules and peptides having amino acid sequences as disclosed herein, and anti-StAR antibodies. Methods include immunoassays using anti-StAR antibodies and nucleic acid based screening methods for pathologies correlated with defects in StAR, such as lipoid congenital adrenal hyperplasia and dose sensitive sex reversal. In addition, these compositions and methods may be useful for treatment of steroid hormone-dependent disorders, in particular, for lipoid congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Abstract: A controller that is linearly responsive to an input voltage provides continuously adjustable control of the width of a periodically repeating digital pulse, thereby achieving a linear voltage to duty-cycle ratio transfer function. The circuit of the present invention includes a master clock input, a ratio control voltage input, a controlled duty cycle clock output, a high gain amplifier configured as an integrator having differential inputs, each equipped with a low pass filter, a controlled current source, a resettable timing capacitor, a threshold detector and a reference pulse generator.

Abstract: A flexible book-like storage receptacle for a compact disc and the printed material that typically accompanies such compact discs. The storage receptacle includes a number of clear, pliable panels movable between an open position for easy access to the contents, and a closed position for storage. The storage receptacle includes layered sidewalls designed as pockets for receiving printed material, as well as for providing support to the compact disc. In addition, the receptacle includes one of a number of different retention post structures to securely hold the compact disc in place. Variations for the retention post include a compressible core, a compressible rectangle, a molded cradle, and strategically placed compressible stoppers. Attached to the perimeter of each of the panels of the receptacle is a flexible magnetic seal that serves to maintain the package in a closed position until it is intentionally forced apart to access the stored items.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for training a novice comprising the steps of providing a sports related implement to at least one expert player for executing a sports related movement. Initiating at least one repetition of the movement. Measuring a variable characteristic of the at least one repetition to provide a sequential record of the variable characteristic produced by the at least one expert player. Transferring the sports implement to a novice player to execute the sports related movement. Activating feedback of the sequential record of the variable characteristic during execution of a comparable movement by the novice player to signal deviation of the comparable movement from the sports related movement, thereby providing expert training to the novice player.

Abstract: A system for pumping water from a well (32) drilled into an underground water source (44) that is operable in association with the windmill (10) having a tower frame (14), a wind driven turbine (12), and a reciprocating pump shaft (16) operably connected to the turbine. The system includes an air pump (20) mechanically linked to the reciprocating pump shaft (16) of the windmill (10) and operable by the direct reciprocating motion of the shaft (16). The air pump (20) operates through the reciprocating motion of the windmill shaft (16) and delivers a flow of compressed air into the well (32) down to a point below the water level within the well (32). An air lift fluid pump (20, 36) is positioned within the well (32) and comprises a submerged mixing chamber wherein compressed air is injected into the mixing chamber forming a buoyant air-water mixture. This buoyant mixture flows towards the surface which in turn draws water up through the fluid conduit (38) to the surface.

Abstract: The application discloses novel 2-alkoxyestradiol analogs which exhibit anti-proliferative properties, and methods of making and using such compounds to inhibit undesired cell proliferation and tumor growth. Additionally, methods are disclosed of treating diseases associated with undesired angiogenesis and undesired proliferation, and methods of treating infectious disease wherein the infectious agent is particularly susceptible to inhibition by agents that disrupt microtubule organization and function.

Abstract: The electrical mechanism of the present invention is constructed with two rotating elements and a static element, when normally an electrical machine (generator or motor) is made with one rotor and one stator only. This invention applies a unique concept of rotating magnetic fields integrated with an electronically controlled electromagnetic reaction driver. The result is a very reliable machine, light weight and not very expensive. In addition, the size and weight of the present invention are smaller (compared to devices operating at the same power) than other AC constant frequency generators working at variable speed.

Abstract: A directional indicator for automated transport devices, such as escalators and moving walkways, for permitting the discernment of the direction of travel of the transport device from a distance. The directional indicator comprises a set of indicia permanently formed or placed on the moving handrail of the escalator or moving walkway that can be seen and easily discerned from a distance. The indicia are preferably of a bright color that strongly contrasts with the dark gray or black of the typical escalator or moving walkway handrail construction. The indicia are also sized, configured, and spaced along the handrail to allow the viewer from a distance to quickly and easily interpret the motion thereof. The indicia are constructed of a material that is placed on or incorporated into the material of the handrail in such a manner as to prevent its removal from the handrail and to prevent the degradation of the contrasting visual effect over time.

Abstract: An improved leg rest hinge structure for a wheelchair that is both strong and easily manipulated. The hinge structure includes a hinge post inversely mounted to a hinge cap which retains the leg tube and foot plate of the leg rest. The hinge post is removably and rotationally inserted into a cylindrical socket fixed to the frame of the wheelchair. A flat land is formed on the exterior circumference of the cylindrical socket that engages either a matching land formed on the underside of the hinge cap or a spring loaded pivot plate fixed on the hinge cap adjacent the hinge post. The structure provides a rugged single post hinge point and an easily manipulated mechanism for releasing the leg rest for rotating it to the side and out of the way.

Abstract: A device and method for sealing a first cylinder in a fixed position inside a second concentric cylinder. The inner cylinder has an annular depression in its wall at the point of sealant placement, which causes the wall of the inner cylinder to intrude inwardly. The depression is filled with a partially compressible fluid and is covered over by a malleable/ductile sleeve. The inner cylinder is placed within the outer cylinder with the covered annular depression positioned at the desired sealing point. A cylindrical displacement device is directed through the inside of the inner cylinder where it encounters the intrusion of the annular depression. The displacement device is forced past the annular intrusion and pushes the wall outward. The partially compressible fluid is forced to expand outward under the malleable/ductile cover in a manner that intrudes into the annular space between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder and into contact with the outer cylinder.

Abstract: A tilt seat mechanism for a wheelchair that includes a base frame and a seat frame that are nested and parallel in a first position and separated and angled in a second position. The seat frame is rotated about a pivot on the base frame by an electrically driven jackscrew. The drive linkage comprises a crossbar connected to the end of the jackscrew and a pair of tee-head connecting links that move with the crossbar. The ends of the crossbar move in channels on the base frame and pivotally connect to the tee-head links. The connecting links are pivotally attached to a bracket fixed on the seat frame. As the jackscrew turns it moves the crossbar and connecting links out from a closed position. This movement results in the lifting of the seat platform to a reclining position with respect to the horizontal base frame.

Abstract: A controller that is linearly responsive to an input voltage provides continuously adjustable control of the width of a periodically repeating digital pulse, thereby achieving a linear voltage to duty-cycle ratio transfer function. The circuit of the present invention includes a master clock input, a ratio control voltage input, a controlled duty cycle clock output, a high gain amplifier configured as an integrator having differential inputs, each equipped with a low pass filter, a controlled current source, a resettable timing capacitor, a threshold detector and a reference pulse generator.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a downhole method and apparatus for simultaneously determining the horizontal resistivity, vertical resistivity, and relative dip angle for anisotropic earth formations. The present invention accomplishes this objective by using an antenna configuration in which a transmitter antenna and a receiver antenna are oriented in non-parallel planes such that the vertical resistivity and the relative dip angle are decoupled. Preferably, either the transmitter or the receiver is mounted in a conventional orientation in a first plane that is normal to the tool axis, and the other antenna is mounted in a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane. This invention also relates to a method and apparatus for steering a downhole tool during a drilling operation in order to maintain the borehole within a desired earth formation.

Abstract: An air beam structure having reduced weight, increased rigidity, and lower inflation pressure requirements. The structure includes a closed tubular cylindrical shell of air impermeable fabric having at least one inflation valve. Fixed within the shell is an “I” beam envelope comprised of flexible, air impermeable walls sealed to the interior of the shell. The “I” beam envelope extends the length of the shell and defines at least four air chambers in communication with the inflation valve. A quantity of compressible material is dispersed throughout the interior of the “I” beam envelope. When subjected to compressive forces by pressurization of the air chambers, the material becomes rigid. The filled envelope is either vented to atmosphere or connected to a vacuum source. The air beam is used in groups and may be connected one to another by sheet materials to form a wall or roof structure.

Abstract: A ball bracket for holding basketballs, footballs, and the like. The ball bracket includes three arcuate members and a means for securing the ball bracket to a supporting structure. Two of the arcuate members are coplanar forming a semicircle. The third arcuate member perpendicularly intersects the semicircle formed by the first two arcuate members at its mid point. The means for securing the ball bracket to the supporting structure is comprised of a rigid plate which lies in a plane tangent to the mid point of the semicircle formed by the first two arcuate members. The semicircle and the third arcuate member are all rigidly attached and arc away from the plate. The present invention additionally provides a ball bracket which includes at least two arcuate members independent of one another and a means for securing the ball bracket to a supporting structure. All arcuate members terminate at a common point on and arc away from the means for securing the ball bracket to a supporting structure.

Abstract: A method for analyzing the optic disc from photographs using vascular landmarks. Monochromatic simultaneous stereo images of an eye are obtained. Reference points are marked on each disc margin. The position of a cup base is estimated and intermediate measurements of the data are tabulated.

Abstract: This invention provides an aid to pediatric physicians and caregivers to lay an infant in incline position for use in treating various physical conditions or diseases, including gastroesophagic reflux (“GER”). The device allows for positional treatment of infants without the need for a special wedged shaped pillow or mattress. The invention allows for fast and easy access to the infant in case of urgency, but still avoids the possibility of the infant releasing himself. The device can be removed for washing or replacement of a new device, depending upon the size of the infant. The device allows the infant to be laid prone, supine, or laterally.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for making and using two measurements to correct metered flow rate values when liquids are present in a multiphase flow stream. The apparatus includes a conduit (10), an orifice (12) positioned within the conduit for creating differential pressure, a gamma ray densitometer including a radient energy source (22) and a radient energy detector (26) placed at an upstream side of the orifice for measuring upstream cross-sectional area and a pressure recovery port (34) placed downstream of the orifice for measuring the pressure recovery value.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an apparatus and method for providing improved control of fuel, preferably gaseous fuel, to an internal combustion engine such that each cylinder of the engine will operate within a predetermined tolerance off of its lean misfire limit. The disclosed system introduces fuel to the engine at two locations: (1) upstream of the intake manifold to provide premixing of a majority of the fuel with air, and (2) near the intake valve of each cylinder for tailoring the fuel flow to each cylinder to achieve that fuel-to-air ratio which is necessary to maintain each cylinder at the desired tolerance from the lean misfire limit. Several calibration and control methods are described to maximize performance of the fuel system, including the use of a misfire detection technique to determine the lean misfire limit of each cylinder to allow the respective port fuel injector to provide a specified margin from lean misfire.