Abstract: A panel tester and grader includes a main frame including a plurality of rollers and defining a substantially S-shaped testing path. A substantially linear bypass path extends below the testing path and a bypass assembly is coupled to the main frame and is operable to move the main frame between a testing position in which panels are received by the testing path, and a bypass position in which panels are received by the bypass path. A load cell providing a load output is coupled to a deflector roller to measure a load applied to the panel by the deflector roller. The load output is monitored as the panels are guided through the panel tester and the load output is selectively recorded based upon the monitored load output.

Abstract: A transgenic mammal, specifically a mouse, containing in its genome a humanized mutant of green fluorescent protein operably linked to the glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter is provided. The mouse can be used to assay the effects of systemic or topical administration of neurotoxins and also to assay the effects of physical damage to neural tissue.

Abstract: A method for evaluating sperm quality is disclosed. The first step of the method is to obtain a quantity of sample mammalian sperm and a sample of mature mammalian oocytes. The oocytes are fertilized with the sperm and the cumulus cells are removed from the fertilized oocytes. The oocytes are then labelled with antibodies directed to microtubules and the labelled microtubules are observed microscopically. The microtubule pattern is evaluated for microtubule aster size and organization. In one preferred from of the present invention, the mammalian sperm and mammalian oocytes are of the same species. In another preferred form of the present invention, the mammalian sperm and oocytes are of different species.

Abstract: The invention pertains to methods of altering growth, lignin content, coniferyl and sinapyl alcohol units in the lignin structure, disease resistance and cellulose content in plants by transformation with a lignin pathway p-coumarate Co-enzyme A ligase (4CL) nucleic acid.

Abstract: Provided is a film package assembly to be used within a camera such that conventional winding and rewinding components are eliminated. Provided is a film package assembly which includes a new light-tight film canister device, a roll of film and a film take-up cartridge. The film package assembly being designed so as to be loadable within a camera in non-darkroom or lighted conditions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for preparing a novel class of vitamin D compounds in which the C-25 or equivalent position has a double bond. In addition, the side chain is optionally extended by one or two methylene or methyne groups. The compounds prepared by the method of the present invention are of value as prodrugs for active 1&agr;, 24-dihydroxylated vitamin D compounds.

Abstract: An exhaust gas cooling system for a vehicle includes a cooling fin system retrofit and a side exhaust pipe retrofit having an exhaust gas exit pipe having a first portion having a plurality of mixing portions which are either bends or internal mixing fins configured to mix vehicle exhaust gas, but not to restrict exhaust gas flow, a second portion fastened to the first portion and a chrome coated third portion fastened to the second portion and extending along the side of the vehicle. The cooling fin system retrofit includes an adjustable clamp and one or more cooling fins, each cooling fin having a base having a pair of upstanding arms, with one arm of the pair having a lip for engaging an arm of another cooling fin. An exhaust gas cooling system kit, a side exhaust pipe retrofit kit, a cooling fin kit are included.

Abstract: A helmet is formed with a rigid outer shell and three energy-absorbing layers made of two types of CONFOR™ ergonomic, open-celled polyurethane foams. The first layer adjacent the rigid outer shell is a CONFOR™ CF-40 yellow foam and the middle layer is a CF-47 green foam, which is of greater stiffness than the outer layer. The inner-most layer is also a CF-40 yellow foam and, therefore, identical to the outer energy-absorbing layer. The three layers are 0.5″ thick. The helmet body is secured to a user's head with straps, affording a helmet design capable of continuously absorbing energy from multiple impacts while retaining the property of returning completely to its original shape. The multiple layering of materials having different stiffnesses results in the reflection of propagating stress waves through the materials, ultimately absorbing larger amounts of energy than the same materials not layered with alternating stiffnesses could absorb.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel formulation of nystatin for parenteral administration to treat systemic fungal infections. The formulation avoids the toxicity and solubility problems of prior art nystatin formulations.

Abstract: A door frame assembly and method of mounting the same, which does not require the use of exterior fasteners to secure members of the door frame assembly to a support frame in a doorway of a building. A connecting member is securable to a support frame member. A doorjamb member is attachable to the connecting member. A trim member is attachable to the connecting member and the door jamb member. The connecting combinations between the connecting member, the door jamb member and the trim member are such that once the door frame assembly is fully assembled, the door jamb member and the trim member cannot be disconnected from the support frame member absent an intervening force.

Abstract: Provided is a fully adjustable pick-and-place tool for an automated robotic device or the like which is capable of picking and placing various kinds of parts. The tool includes a plate and a magnet movably attached to the plate to pick-and-place parts having all sorts of configurations. A part manipulator including a suction cup or gripper mechanism or the like may be coupled to the magnet to pick-and-place the part. In one aspect of the present invention, the part manipulator is adjustably positionable with respect to the plate without having to move the magnet to a different location on the plate thereby further enhancing the ability of the tool to pick-and-place parts of different types having various shapes and sizes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a conveyor system for conveying objects along a conveyor path. The system permits conveyance of objects along an inclined path and accumulation of objects. The system comprises a modular, plastic, endless conveyor belt comprising plastic modules linked by means of a connecting pin, accumulation elements for accumulating objects provided in at least some of the modules. Accumulation elements are driver members positionable beneath the conveyor belt's carrying section surface (accumulation position) or above the conveyor belt's carrying section surface (driving position), and a guidance system disposed beneath the driver member path for position driver members in driving position.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of fractionating mixed triglycerides, more particularly anhydrous milk fat, are disclosed. The apparatus and method provide for the separation of the steps of nucleation and crystal growth. Precise control of energy input for nucleation and crystal growth in a static environment at higher temperatures than the nucleation temperature result in the production of a solid fraction characterized by higher yields and a uniform MMT.

Abstract: A method for reducing or preventing elevated blood parathyroid hormone level in a human being suffering from primary hyperparathyroidism, secondary hyperparathyroidism, or hyperparathyroidism secondary to end stage renal disease by administering a sufficient amount of 1&agr;,24(S)-(OH)2 vitamin D2.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for making 24(S)-hydroxyvitamin D2 which is a stereospecific synthesis.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of preparing conjugated polyunsaturated fatty acids wherein the fatty acid substrate has two or more double bonds and diallylic hydrogens by one or more treatments with a superstrong base. Isomeric purity can be accomplished with a further step of enzymatic hydrolysis and separation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for controlling and limiting the discharge temperature of a compressor of a refrigeration system. The invention is suitable for converting an existing refrigeration system which operates with one refrigerant to use with another refrigerant which can cause high discharge temperatures. The invention includes a, simple four-part system—a temperature sensor to sense the discharge temperature, an injection valve for injecting liquid refrigerant into the suction gas line of the compressor, a fluid line for providing liquid refrigerant to the valve from the condenser and a digital controller for actuating the valve.

Abstract: A corner accentuator or corner mounted illumination for providing illumination from the corner of two walls. The accentuator includes a light-illuminated reflector in the front side of a corner plate. The light has a DC power source that can provide power to the light even in when there is a power outage. The power source can be used in conjunction with a solar collector disposed in the front side of the corner plate which recharges the energy storage device.