Abstract: The structural system of the invention provides, e.g., column members and planar members made of sheet materials interlocked to form frames for buildings and furniture. The members can be cut from sheet stock material, or injection molded, then assembled into useful configurations by interlocking column members then inserting the interlocked columns into close fitting pierced regions of planar members.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for the encapsulation of antigens in PLGA microspheres for use as vaccines. Such microspheres can also contain adjuvants. Mixtures of microspheres are provided which release antigen at desired intervals to provide boosts with antigen.

Abstract: This invention provides methods, NMR probes, and NMR systems for the analysis of the contents of sealed food and beverage containers and the like.

Abstract: This invention provides novel methods for synthesis of narrow polydispersity oxazolone-containing polymers via nitroxide-mediated living free radical polymerization, as well as the products and derivatives thereof.

Abstract: A turret lathe includes a bed, a headstock mounted on the bed, a first slide mounted slidably on the bed, a second slide mounted slidably on the first slide, a spindle journalled to the headstock, a chuck mounted on the spindle, a tailstock mounted on the second slide, a driven shaft journalled to the tailstock, a turret mounted on the driven shaft, a transmission unit, and a clutch operable between a chamfering operation mode, in which the driven shaft is connected to the spindle through the transmission unit, and a turning operation mode, in which the driven shaft is disconnected from the spindle.

Abstract: Compositions comprising inositolphosphoglycans (IPGs) and ribose are disclosed, and their use in the prevention or treatment of ischaemic-reperfusion injury. This treatment increases the energy generating systems of cells by employing the mitochondrial oxidative restoration system. The use of the compositions in preserving organs for transplantation is also disclosed.

Abstract: Recombinant negative-strand viral RNA templates are described which may be used with purified RNA-directed RNA polymerase complex to express heterologous gene products in appropriate host cells and/or to rescue the heterologous gene in virus particles. The RNA templates are prepared by transcription of appropriate DNA sequences with a DNA-directed RNA polymerase. The resulting RNA templates are of the negative-polarity and contain appropriate terminal sequences which enable the viral RNA-synthesizing apparatus to recognize the template. Bicistronic mRNAs can be constructed to permit internal initiation of translation of viral sequences and allow for the expression of foreign protein coding sequences from the regular terminal initiation site, or vice versa.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel assay methods for identifying compounds that may have both estrogen agonist and antagonist properties. In particular, the assay use cells comprising promoters having an AP1 site linked to a reporter gene. Compounds capable of inducing or blocking expression of the reporter gene can thus be identified. The compounds may be further tested for the ability to modulate the standard estrogen response, as well.

Abstract: Nanocomposite photovoltaic devices are provided that generally include semiconductor nanocrystals as at least a portion of a photoactive layer. Photovoltaic devices and other layered devices that comprise core-shell nanostructures and/or two populations of nanostructures, where the nanostructures are not necessarily part of a nanocomposite, are also features of the invention. Varied architectures for such devices are also provided including flexible and rigid architectures, planar and non-planar architectures and the like, as are systems incorporating such devices, and methods and systems for fabricating such devices. Compositions comprising two populations of nanostructures of different materials are also a feature of the invention.

Abstract: A method is provided which comprises: performing a plurality of fermentations, each fermentation in a different sample vessel; and performing a further processing step on the plurality of fermented samples where the sample is retained in the same sample vessel as the fermentation during the processing step.

Abstract: New lipase enzymes (both nucleic acids and polypeptides) are provided.

Abstract: A method of treating an individual to increase the individual's bone mineral density (BMD) is disclosed. The method includes co-administering a calcitonin-like agent and a DHEA-like agent. Also disclosed are methods for potentiating the effect of treatment with a calcitonin-like agent on BMD and for increasing BMD in an individual being treated with DHEA, e.g., for treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Abstract: This invention provides improved components (e.g. array “pins”, print head, substrate platen, print head platen, and the like) for microarray printing devices as well as microarray printing devices incorporating such components. In one embodiment, this invention provides a microarray print head comprising a plurality of glass or quartz spotting capillaries disposed in a support that maintains a fixed spacing between the spotting capillaries and that permits the spotting capillaries to move in a direction parallel to the long axis of the capillaries.

Abstract: A novel method of over expressing genes in plants is provided. This method is based on the RNA amplification properties of plus strand RNA viruses of plants. A chimeric multicistronic gene is constructed containing a plant promoter, viral replication origins, a viral movement protein gene, and one or more foreign genes under control of viral subgenomic promoters. Plants containing one or more of these recombinant RNA transcripts are inoculated with helper virus. In the presence of helper virus, the recombinant transcripts are replicated producing high levels of foreign gene RNA.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for ultrasonically scanning cylinders are provided. The methods and apparatus employ as few as one ultrasonic sensor for full immersion scanning and defect detection. Self-centering fixturing spins the cylinder, reducing vibration, allowing for fast ultrasonic scans. To create the 45 degree angle beam shear waves for the circumferential scans, the ultrasonic sensor is offset from the centerline of the cylinder, creating the correct angle for excitation of the shear wave.

Abstract: Integrated systems, apparatus, software, and methods for performing biochemical analysis, including DNA sequencing, genomic screening, purification of nucleic acids and other biological components and drug screening are provided. Microfluidic devices, systems and methods for using these devices and systems for performing a wide variety of fluid operations are provided. The devices and systems of are used in performing fluid operations which require a large number of iterative, successive or parallel fluid manipulations, in a microscale, or sealed and readily automated format.

Abstract: Assay devices, kits, and methods for detection of one or more analytes in a sample are provided. The assay device features the controlled release of reagents and hence is particularly suitable for binding assays such as immunoassays. The assay device achieves greater sensitivity than conventional rapid test assays, leading to stronger and/or more stable visual signals than those produced by conventional devices, easier interpretation of results, and reduced occurrence of indeterminate results. The device can be used for detecting analyte in a variety of biological samples without the need for conventional sample filtration techniques, and thus is suitable for use by untrained personnel without specialized equipment. In addition, the device can be used to simultaneously analyze a number of analytes using a single sample.

Abstract: Disclosed is an elasticity-controllable trampoline using a plate spring that can be manufactured in small size and in low height compared with existing trampolines using coil springs, thereby proving stability to a user. Also, it has a mechanical structure, thereby providing a semi-permanent life term. Under the principles of a lever using the third law of motion, particularly, the plate spring carries out action in smooth manner, in operation and also carries out reaction with the jumping operation of the user, such that the trampoline of the present invention will have a strong elasticity. In addition, a plate spring support movable stand on the plate spring is moved in simple manner according to the principles of the lever, thereby allowing the elasticity of the plate spring to be controlled. With the adjustment of the upward and downward motion of an action point operation bolt, the height of the upward and downward motion can be adjusted.

Abstract: A information search and navigation system indexes, categorizes and condenses data from text or other documents. In various embodiments, the invention further can utilize user information goals, document or website types and multi-page link path options that together provide a fast, multi-page Web navigation system.