Abstract: The present invention provides an improved integrated system for biological marker identification. The system uses Microvolume Laser Scanning Microscopy (MLSC) in order to measure patterns of expression of biological markers in biological fluids. The system includes improved instrumentation for performing MLSC, and also includes improved particle detection and analysis methods. The system further comprises an informatics architecture for the analysis of data obtained from the MLSC in tandem with other medical information.

Abstract: Methods and instrumentation for performing charge coupled device (CCD)-based confocal spectroscopy with a laser spot array are provided. The methods and instruments of the invention are useful in any spectroscopic application, including, but not limited to, microscopy and microvolume laser scanning cytometry (MLSC).

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved integrated system for biological marker identification. The system uses Microvolume Laser Scanning Microscopy (MLSC) in order to measure patterns of expression of biological markers in biological fluids. The system includes improved instrumentation for performing MLSC, and also includes improved particle detection and analysis methods. The system further comprises an informatics architecture for the analysis of data obtained from the MLSC in tandem with other medical information.

Abstract: Methods and instrumentation for performing charge coupled device (CCD)-based confocal spectroscopy with a laser spot array are provided. The methods and instruments of the invention are useful in any spectroscopic application, including, but not limited to, microscopy and microvolume laser scanning cytometry (MLSC).

Abstract: A surface of an object to be decorated is provided with a first color. A liquid, such as water, is applied to the surface to form a plurality of drops. A coloring agent having a second color, such as conventional spray paint, is applied to the surface over the drops. The liquid is then removed from the surface, for example, by evaporation or allowing the liquid to drip off of the surface, and the coloring agent is dried. A protective coating is optionally applied over the finished surface. To apply the decorative finish to a three-dimensional surface, the same process is used except, the liquid is first applied to a first portion of the surface to form a plurality of drops. The liquid is then frozen in place so that the liquid may then be applied to a second portion of the three-dimensional surface.

Abstract: A header attachment for mounting on the straight cut header of a combine includes a guide plate which engages over the knife of the straight cut header with arms extend underneath the header so as to hold the header attachment in fixed position on the header frame. At the front of the guide plate is mounted a pair of pick-ups which are inclined slightly rearwardly and outwardly and each is independently pivotal on the guide plate so that each end of each pick-up can be raised and lowered to follow ground contour. A coulter is mounted in front of each end of each pick-up so as to be responsive to ground level while cutting the lying crop. Each pick-up includes a series of belts arranged edge to edge and held in abutting position by ribs on the inside surface of the belts which cooperate with the corresponding grooves in the outside surface of the guide rollers. The header is used to convert a straight cut header for harvesting lying crops such as peas.

Abstract: A reverser system for the feeder chain of a combine harvester comprises a hydraulic motor mounted on a slide and operated by a cylinder to move from a retracted position to a forward operating position. In the operating position the mechanical coupling connects the shaft of the hydraulic motor to a drive sprocket connected to the feeder chain. Hydraulic fluid to the cylinder and to the hydraulic motor is tapped from the lift cylinders of the combine from a solenoid operated diverter valve. A control unit controls the supply of the pressurized fluid to the cylinder while delaying the supply of fluid to the hydraulic motor so that the mechanical coupling is connected while stationary before the hydraulic motor starts. This arrangement can be provided by simple mechanical devices providing an inexpensive drive system.

Abstract: A unit for mixing a powder onto a particulate material for example an inoculant onto seeds includes a device which can be clamped around an auger tube and includes a liquid dispenser and a power dispenser. The liquid dispenser communicates with an inlet into the auger tube spaced downwardly of the unit. A powder hopper includes an opening for dispensing through a tube into the auger tube with the powder hopper being vibrated to feed the powder into the auger tube. The liquid acts as an adhesive agent coating the seeds so that the powder inoculant can be adhered to the seeds at a position downstream of the injection of the liquid at a point where the liquid is fully mixed.

Abstract: A stone digging implement is manufactured as a simple and inexpensive attachment for the front end loader of a tractor. The attachment comprises a frame formed by a pair of horizontal I-beams which support a pair of hooked or pointed tines which extend downwardly from the I-beams for engaging the ground.