Abstract: Embodiments of lab automation workstations are disclosed in which the pod that performs pipetting operations is integrated with pipette tip-loading functionality. To generate the necessary tip-loading force, a dual drive system is used that is symmetric about the Y-axis to allow for offset or partial tip box loads by dynamically centering the drive force (e.g., the tip-loading force) over the reaction load. This minimizes the need for oversized linear motion components while still allowing for the generation of high tip-loading forces needed to properly load a large number of pipette tips simultaneously.

Abstract: Embodiments of lab automation workstations are disclosed in which the pod that performs pipetting operations is integrated with pipette tip-loading functionality. To generate the necessary tip-loading force, a dual drive system is used that is symmetric about the Y-axis to allow for offset or partial tip box loads by dynamically centering the drive force (e.g., the tip-loading force) over the reaction load. This minimizes the need for oversized linear motion components while still allowing for the generation of high tip-loading forces needed to properly load a large number of pipette tips simultaneously.

Abstract: In an example, a method can include segmented image volume data for at least one anatomic structure, wherein the segmented image volume data includes a 3-D image volume that includes the at least one anatomic structure. The method can include searching outward from a computed centerline for the at least one anatomic structure to detect a surface of one or more regions of interest of the at least one anatomic structure by evaluating values associated with voxels representing the 3-D image volume that includes the at least one anatomic structure relative to a threshold. The method can further include isolating the one or more regions of interest of the at least one anatomic structure in response to the searching and generating a region of interest model based on the one or more isolated regions of interest.

Abstract: A temporarily attachable sled device for human-powered household vehicles includes a main body and at least one front end chock assembly and at least one rear end chock assembly. The main body is formed of a substantially waterproof sheet, with substantially at least the lower face of the sheet formed as a low friction surface. The at least one front end chock assembly and the at least one rear end chock assembly extending from the upper surface of the main body in use. The main body and the chock assemblies are sized and shaped so that a household vehicle can be positioned on the upper surface of the main body and prevented from riding up and over the chock assemblies. The main body includes ridges along and extending upwards from each side of the main body, the ridges extending substantially the length of the sides.

Abstract: In an example, a method can include segmented image volume data for at least one anatomic structure, wherein the segmented image volume data includes a 3-D image volume that includes the at least one anatomic structure. The method can include searching outward from a computed centerline for the at least one anatomic structure to detect a surface of one or more regions of interest of the at least one anatomic structure by evaluating values associated with voxels representing the 3-D image volume that includes the at least one anatomic structure relative to a threshold. The method can further include isolating the one or more regions of interest of the at least one anatomic structure in response to the searching and generating a region of interest model based on the one or more isolated regions of interest.

Abstract: An ejection seat is disclosed comprising a seat back; a headrest assembly mounted to or forming part of the seat back; a pair of head support beams stowable in the headrest assembly, configured to be deployed such that they project forwardly from the headrest assembly, for capturing a seat occupant's head therebetween, and a pair of arm retention curtains, wherein at least part of each arm retention curtain is stowed in a rolled condition, configured such that deploying the head support beams and/or drawing the tethers forward from the seat back unfurls the arm retention curtains.

Abstract: Embodiments of lab automation workstations are disclosed in which the pod that performs pipetting operations is integrated with pipette tip-loading functionality. To generate the necessary tip-loading force, a dual drive system is used that is symmetric about the Y-axis to allow for offset or partial tip box loads by dynamically centering the drive force (e.g., the tip-loading force) over the reaction load. This minimizes the need for oversized linear motion components while still allowing for the generation of high tip-loading forces needed to properly load a large number of pipette tips simultaneously.

Abstract: Aspects of the innovations presented herein relate to improved systems that in some embodiments perform capillary electrophoresis (CE) and CE in conjunction with electrospray ionization (ESI) as an input to a mass spectrometry system (MS). Some embodiments use a high voltage isolated CE power supply that is configured to float on the high voltage output of an ESI-MS power supply, with a protective resistance in the ESI-MS path, as well as DC/DC converter isolation and communication system isolation for the isolated CE power supply. Some embodiments additionally use a cartridge assembly integrating separation and conductive fluid capillaries with fluid cooling and protective retractable housings for the capillary end portions and for the ESI output. The protective housing may further be used with an adapter for interfacing with different MS systems.

Abstract: Aspects of the innovations presented herein relate to improved systems that in some embodiments perform capillary electrophoresis (CE) and CE in conjunction with electrospray ionization (ESI) as an input to a mass spectrometry system (MS). Some embodiments use a high voltage isolated CE power supply that is configured to float on the high voltage output of an ESI-MS power supply, with a protective resistance in the ESI-MS path, as well as DC/DC converter isolation and communication system isolation for the isolated CE power supply. Some embodiments additionally use a cartridge assembly integrating separation and conductive fluid capillaries with fluid cooling and protective retractable housings for the capillary end portions and for the ESI output. The protective housing may further be used with an adapter for interfacing with different MS systems.

Abstract: An ejection seat is disclosed comprising a seat back; a headrest assembly mounted to or forming part of the seat back; a pair of head support beams stowable in the headrest assembly, configured to be deployed such that they project forwardly from the headrest assembly, for capturing a seat occupant's head therebetween, and a pair of arm retention curtains, wherein at least part of each arm retention curtain is stowed in a rolled condition, configured such that deploying the head support beams and/or drawing the tethers forward from the seat back unfurls the arm retention curtains.

Abstract: Aspects of the innovations presented herein relate to improved systems that in some embodiments perform capillary electrophoresis (CE) and CE in conjunction with electrospray ionization (ESI) as an input to a mass spectrometry system (MS). Some embodiments use a high voltage isolated CE power supply that is configured to float on the high voltage output of an ESI-MS power supply, with a protective resistance in the ESI-MS path, as well as DC/DC converter isolation and communication system isolation for the isolated CE power supply. Some embodiments additionally use a cartridge assembly integrating separation and conductive fluid capillaries with fluid cooling and protective retractable housings for the capillary end portions and for the ESI output. The protective housing may further be used with an adapter for interfacing with different MS systems.

Abstract: A composition comprising at least partially defatted meal from a plant source containing protein-bound tryptophan, which plant source has been processed to at least partially remove oil contained therein to yield said meal having a natural source of tryptophan greater than its plant source, a carbohydrate source having a high glycemic index and a physiologically-acceptable diluent or carrier therefor for inducing sleep, alleviating an anxiety disorder, depression, obsessive compulsive aggression, chronic pain or eating disorder, in a human in need thereof, wherein said composition is in the form of a food bar further comprising a puffed cereal. The composition provides improved sleep characteristics.

Abstract: An aircraft surveillance system that includes an uninterruptible aircraft information broadcasting system (such as an ADS-B system) for transmitting flight information from an aircraft, and one or more ground stations for receiving the broadcast flight information. The flight information preferably includes the aircraft's aircraft ID, current three-dimensional position, and intended path. Optional components according to the invention include a system and method for validating messages received from the aircraft, and an alternative system and method for determining the aircraft's position if a primary navigation aid, such as GPS, is not available. In one embodiment of the invention, the system includes a transmitter and an uninterruptible power supply that are disposed within a secure housing within the aircraft. This serves to prevent passengers and crew members from disabling the system.

Abstract: An aircraft surveillance system that includes an uninterruptible aircraft information broadcasting system (such as an ADS-B system) for transmitting flight information from an aircraft, and one or more ground stations for receiving the broadcast flight information. The flight information preferably includes the aircraft's aircraft ID, current three-dimensional position, and intended path. Optional components according to the invention include a system and method for validating messages received from the aircraft, and an alternative system and method for determining the aircraft's position if a primary navigation aid, such as GPS, is not available. In one embodiment of the invention, the system includes a transmitter and an uninterruptible power supply that are disposed within a secure housing within the aircraft. This serves to prevent passengers and crew members from disabling the system.