Abstract: An isoform of the TGF beta receptor II having a sequence of about of 80 amino acids and lacking a transmembrane domain. The isoform having the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID No. 12. The isoform may have the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID No. 2 or sequences having at least 85% sequence identity to the sequence set forth in SEQ ID No. 2. A fusion peptide is provided having an isoform of the TGF beta II receptor fused to a ligand, wherein a vector having the fusion peptide is used to treat cancer and/or hepatic fibrosis. An antibody binding the soluble isoform of the TGF beta II receptor is provided. The antibody binds the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID No. 12 and is used in in vitro methods.

Abstract: A modular canopy structure is disclosed. The modular canopy structure may utilize component parts of industry standard scaffolding portions attached to a specifically designed bow beam (roof support portion). The bow beam mates with industry standard scaffolding portions that form a side wall of the canopy structure. Construction of the canopy structure (e.g., on-site assembly) is simplified over prior art temporary structures and the disclosed canopy structure provides strength and near 100% water resistance as well as other improvements based, in part, on sidewall sleeves, overlapping techniques, material usage, and other design considerations. In some cases, the disclosed canopy structure may be suitable for onsite construction projects (including welding), temporary housing in a disaster, or as a suitable temporary to semi-permanent structure for outdoor events (e.g., wedding, party, temporary building).

Abstract: The invention relates to a support arm for a cylindrical-parabolic collector, which is intended to be coupled to a central body (1) of the collector in the form of a bracket in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a focal line (2) of the collector. The inventive arm takes the form of a wedge comprising: a first side (10) which is provided with support devices (11) for supporting at least one mirror (3), a second side (20), and a third side (30) which is provided with support devices (31) such that the arm is supported by the central body (1). The arm is formed by at least one press-formed plate such as to obtain a resistant structure that provides stiffness and a carrying capacity by means of a plurality of ribs (42) which form a lattice comprising a plurality of laminar segments (41) between said ribs.

Abstract: An electric dolly system for transporting an object up and down stairs having a base platform connected to a bottom end of support rails, a handle at a top end and a pair of wheels at the bottom end, a track belt wrapped around a first and second rotator component adapted to rotate around the rotator components like a conveyor belt using a motor, the first rotator component is connected to the support rails via a first extension arm and the second rotator component is connected to the support rails via a second extension arm, the first extension arm is positioned closer to the handle and is longer than the second extension arm such that the track belt is at an angle with respect to the support rails.

Abstract: The invention relates to a support arm for a cylindrical-parabolic collector, which is intended to be coupled to a central body (1) of the collector in the form of a bracket in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a focal line (2) of the collector. The inventive arm takes the form of a wedge comprising: a first side (10) which is provided with support devices (11) for supporting at least one mirror (3), a second side (20), and a third side (30) which is provided with support devices (31) such that the arm is supported by the central body (1). The arm is formed by at least one press-formed plate such as to obtain a resistant structure that provides stiffness and a carrying capacity by means of a plurality of ribs (42) which form a lattice comprising a plurality of laminar segments (41) between said ribs.

Abstract: A method and device for communicating data indicative of vehicle performance includes a method of generating a low frequency wireless link between a module within a vehicle and a cellular communication device disposed within that vehicle. The cellular communication device such as a cell phone is part of a network thereby eliminating the need to create an additional network connection with the vehicle. Data indicative of vehicle operating conditions is transmitted through the cellular network to a remote facility for processing, scheduling and notification of an operator. The wireless link between the module disposed within the vehicle and a wireless communication device provides for early notification and scheduling of maintenance of the vehicle to maintain desired operating parameters and conditions.

Abstract: A tire pressure monitoring system and method uses a power characteristic of a radio frequency signal, from a tire sensor to determine the location of the tire associated with that signal. The location of the antenna relative to the sensor and relative to a receiver in a central module creates a unique power characteristic for each antenna. Thus, it is possible to link a given signal with a particular tire position based on the power characteristic of that signal without requiring additional hardware or calibration processes.