Abstract: The present invention includes a device for transforming 3D image data such that the transformed image aligns with a 2D fluoroscopic image. The process of finding the transform that aligns the features of the 3D image with the 2D image is called image registration. The fluoroscopic image registration process has at its core a multistage framework that progressively refines a registration result. Each stage leverages the fluoroscopic registration engine which iteratively searches the parameter space defined by the stage. The core registration engine creates a candidate transform, uses it to create a digitally reconstructed radiograph, then compares that to the supplied fluoroscopic image, and the iterative alignment engine either ends or uses it to construct a new candidate transform. Similarity measurement of a candidate transform is based on intensities and any custom data relevant to the registration scenario.

Abstract: A card, such as a greeting card, is provided. The card includes an enclosed space that is partially embedded in or coupled to a portion of the card, where the space includes pieces of material that are moved within the space by one or more moving pieces. In embodiments, a front or a back panel of the card features an enclosure housing fan operable to disperse the pieces or particles. In some cases, the fan and other components for moving the pieces is concealed from view by a cover. In one example, a card features an enclosure with the appearance of a snow globe and includes a wheel connected to a control that allows a user to activate movement of particles inside the enclosure. In embodiments, movements may be timed to increase the interactions of the particles.

Abstract: Methods and materials for preparing irreversible inhibitors of tyrosine kinases of general Formula 1 are disclosed. Such inhibitors, which include N-[4-(3-chloro-4-floro-phenylamino)-7-(3-morpholin-4-yl-propoxy)-quinazolin-6-yl]-acrylamide, are useful for treating cancer, restenosis, atherosclerosis, endometriosis and psoriasis. The disclosed methods employ protecting schemes to minimize undesirable diacryloylamino-quinazoline side products.

Abstract: A distributed stress wave analysis system is disclosed for detecting structure borne sounds cause by friction. The detected information is processed using feature extraction and neural network artificial intelligence software. The system consists of stress wave sensors, interconnect cables, and preferably three modules: (1) distributed processing units, (2) maintenance advisory panel, and (3) laptop computer. A derived stress wave pulse train which is independent of background levels of vibration and audible noise is used to extract signature features, which when processed by neural networks of polynomial equations, characterize the mechanical health of the monitored components. The system includes an adjustable data fusion architecture to optimize indication thresholds, maximize fault detection probability, and minimize false alarms.

Abstract: A complex task is managed by controlling the independent, cooperating components that make up the complex task. This control includes, for instance, pre-run dynamic validation of the components of the complex task; programmatic determination of the proper order to start, stop or delete one or more of the components; post-run automatic recovery from a terminated component; and/or automatic collection of information regarding the independent, cooperating components, such that the overall status of the complex task is obtained and understood. The control is provided through a centralized mechanism that enables easy configuration, control and monitoring of the independent, cooperating components of a complex task.