Abstract: Methods for forming an insert, such as a threaded or threadable insert, within a cavity in an implant, such as a spinal spacer. In some implementations, an implant body comprising a first, non-threadable, may be provided. A cavity may be formed in the implant body, after which an insert may be positioned within the cavity. Preferably, the insert comprises a second material distinct from the first material, wherein the second material has physical properties distinct from the first material. A female thread may then be formed within the insert, which may allow for threading an otherwise unthreadable, or relatively unthreadable, material.

Abstract: Ceramic orthopedic implants may have one or more dense inner layers and one or more porous outer layers. Methods for manufacturing the implants may include one or more stages during which the dense inner layer(s) are partially compressed. At least one porous outer layer may include coating particles that are present at a surface of one or more inner layer(s) while pressure is applied to attach the coating particles to the inner layer(s) and to further compress one or more of the inner layer(s). Various layers may be formed until an implant, or other device, is formed having the desired density gradient and/or other properties, as disclosed herein.

Abstract: Ceramic implants, such as spinal implants, may comprise a dense shell and a porous core. In some implementations, methods for manufacturing the implants may comprise one or more stages at which the core material abuts the shell so as to form a mechanical attachment therewith while both the core and the shell are in a green state. The core and the shell may be fired together, and the resultant implant may, in some embodiments, comprise a unitary piece of ceramic material. Some embodiments may comprise silicon nitride ceramic materials.

Abstract: A process and system that facilitates electronic distribution of publications to consumers is disclosed. The inventive process and system allows the publication owner's distributor/agent to distribute the publication to the distributor/agent's prospects, clients, or associates, and customizes the publication with the name and contact information of the distributor/agent. Customized advertisements containing the distributor/agent's information can also be created within the publication.

Abstract: A system for securing uneven, irregular loads of material wherein the system comprises individual units, or blocks, that may be used to compliment, or fill in, uneven spaces in an uneven load of materials. The individual units, or blocks, may have various shapes and sizes in order to help compliment uneven, irregular spaces as efficiently as possible. The individual units may also vary in density, which density will be approximately between fifteen (15) and seventy-five (75) pounds per square inch. The individual units may also be structured to allow the individual units to inter-lock with each other, thereby preventing the individual units from slipping or becoming loose during transport. Once the uneven, irregular load has been complimented, or filled in, with the individual units, the load may be secured for transport using chains or other suitable securing mechanisms.

Abstract: A blend of a cycloolefin copolymer and a thermoplastic urethane having similar indices of refraction is transparent. The cycloolefin copolymer is derived from norbornene and other monomers such that it has a processing range compatible with the thermoplastic urethane. The urethane component preferably has a polyether intermediate. A thermoplastic urethane compatibilizing agent is utilized desirably having a hydrocarbon intermediate portion. The compositions can be made to have desirable electrical dissipative properties for static control applications.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of providing information to the user of a global computer network comprising the steps of: (a) marking pieces of material from a computer readable page; (b) receiving from a handheld device a request for information from the computer readable page; (c) extracting the marked pieces of material from the computer readable page; and (d) transmitting the marked pieces of material to the handheld device.

Abstract: A step-in, releasable cross country binding mechanism allowing rotational and/or forward release of the binding toe piece and skier from the ski. A cleat, mounted to the bottom of a binding toe pieces is relesably retained by spring loaded structure located between a ski boot and ski. A step-in heel piece is connected to the toe piece by a cable.