Abstract: This disclosure relates to the technique for acquiring a three-dimensional image of the human body for the purpose of manufacturing customized orthopedic braces.

Abstract: A shoulder and arm support for supporting either the left or right shoulder and arm of a patient. The support includes a case, a removable support member, and a sling which houses a shoulder strap secured thereto and a body strap secured thereto. The case houses an interior compartment in which a resilient cushion and an inflatable bladder are positioned. The case includes an outer panel which is pivotally secured to the upper panel of the case and movable between first and second positions of abduction. The inflation and deflation of a pneumatic bladder cause the outer panel to be moved continuously. The removable support member has an interior compartment which houses a resilient cushion. The exterior surface of the outer panel allows for a sling, making this shoulder and arm support customizable to the patient, position of comfort, and the phase of the rehabilitation process.

Abstract: A bilateral rigid orthopedic support with pliable tabs that stabilize the wrist and hand, utilizing an adjustable hinge with a locking mechanism, providing the user the ability to lock the wrist into varying degrees of flexion and extension while simultaneously allowing for maximum support, with the addition of an orthopedic circumferential wrist and hand sleeve is disclosed. The combination of orthopedic sleeve materials and the rigid frame provide the required stability and compression while allowing for full phalange function.

Abstract: A combination end seal and cotyledon restraint (20) for an artificial seed (22) is provided. The combination end seal and cotyledon restraint includes a cap portion (30) sized to substantially seal one end of an artificial seed and a cotyledon restraint (32) unitarily formed with the cap portion.

Abstract: A combination end seal and cotyledon restraint (20) for an artificial seed (22) is provided. The combination end seal and cotyledon restraint includes a cap portion (30) sized to substantially seal one end of an artificial seed and a cotyledon restraint (32) unitarily formed with the cap portion.

Abstract: The invention is a method of ordering plant embryos so that a specified end of the embryo is always oriented in a predetermined direction. The embryos are preferably first fairly rapidly desiccated to about 15% moisture content. They are then suspended in a benign liquid flotation medium having a density in the range of about 1.059-1.104 g/cm.sup.3. The density must be adjusted empirically so that a predominant number of viable embryos will float and nonviable embryos will sink. In at least the case of conifer somatic embryos, they will float with the end bearing the latent cotyledons upward. After sufficient separation time in the flotation medium the oriented embryos are swept by a flowing liquid stream into a conduit. They enter cotyledon end first and are then carried to a delivery point without losing that orientation. Here they are separated from the transporting medium.