Abstract: One or more devices are provided that are configured to detachably engage within a modular system. The one or more devices are expandable to provide a surface to perform work.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: The invention provides tissue engineering compositions and methods wherein three-dimensional matrices for growing cells are prepared for in vitro and in vivo use. The matrices comprise biodegradable polymer fibers capable of the controlled delivery of therapeutic agents. The spatial and temporal distribution of released therapeutic agents is controlled by use of defined nonhomogeneous patterns of therapeutic agents in the matrices.

Abstract: The invention provides tissue engineering compositions and methods wherein three-dimensional matrices for growing cells are prepared for in vitro and in vivo use. The matrices comprise biodegradable polymer fibers capable of the controlled delivery of therapeutic agents. The spatial and temporal distribution of released therapeutic agents is controlled by use of defined nonhomogeneous patterns of therapeutic agents in the matrices.

Abstract: The invention provides tissue engineering compositions and methods wherein three-dimensional matrices for growing cells are prepared for in vitro and in vivo use. The matrices comprise biodegradable polymer fibers capable of the controlled delivery of therapeutic agents. The spatial and temporal distribution of released therapeutic agents is controlled by use of defined nonhomogeneous patterns of therapeutic agents in the matrices.

Abstract: The invention provides tissue engineering compositions and methods wherein three-dimensional matrices for growing cells are prepared for in vitro and in vivo use. The matrices comprise biodegradable polymer fibers capable of the controlled delivery of therapeutic agents. The spatial and temporal distribution of released therapeutic agents is controlled by use of defined nonhomogeneous patterns of therapeutic agents in the matrices.

Abstract: A radioactive source holder for use in radiation absorption gauging is disclosed. The radiation source holder includes a housing body having a cavity therein through a first surface for receiving a plurality of radioactive sources. The radioactive sources are permanently retained in the housing by epoxy or tape. A shipping container for the radioactive source holders is also provided. The shipping container includes first and second cylindrical members formed from lead which are disposed adjacent to the first surface of the housing body and a second opposite surface. The container bodies are attached to the housing body by a retainer such as bolts. Further, a radioactive source assembly is disclosed which includes a plurality of radioactive source holders along with an end shield which are attached to a mounting plate which may be received on a mounting bracket associated with the radiation absorption gauging system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to "activated" immature astrocytes and the methods of utilizing the activated immature astrocytes as a means for promotingPursuant to the provisions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn.202(c), it is hereby acknowledged that the Government has certain rights in this invention, which was made in part with funds from the National Eye Institute of the National Institutes of Health.

Abstract: The present invention relates to "activated" immature astrocytes and methods of utilizing the activated immature astrocytes to reduce secondary necrosis and scar formation in central nervous system tissue as well as to promote axon and/or blood vessel growth or regeneration. In specific embodiments of the invention, activated immature astrocytes are used in injectable form or on a polymer implant. The activated immature astrocytes and pharmaceutical compositions comprising same, may be used to treat disorders of the nervous system resulting from accidents or diseases which have in some way damaged the nerve tissue.

Abstract: A blade for an earth moving machine mounted in the machine as to have at least one strip extending forward of the leading edge to engage and cut the soil by an oscillatory movement about an axis close to and parallel to the leading edge. A spading action is thereby produced which aids penetration of the blade into the soil so as to enable the soil to be more easily cut and shifted. The invention is applicable to many different kinds of earth moving machinery which cut and shift soil and increases the efficiency of earth moving machinery by increasing the soil cutting and moving ability attainable without relying on high tractive effort or increased power output.

Abstract: A nail constructed with conventional heading equipment with an open-sided partially circular head having a recess along the open-sided edge thereof to permit burr growth without interfering with the interengagement of a downwardly facing abutment surface of the head with a mating top surface abutment area when a plurality of such nails is collated and secured in an angle stick package with the shanks and heads of adjacent nails in abutting relation.