It's better to assume that they are.

Do I need to leave US for status adjustment from J1 to H1?

It should be Ok to seek COS in the US upon approval of your J1 waiver.

My H1b got denied after a RFE. Can i apply new H1b again with the same employer

It will be important to understand the reason/s for the denial to determine the better options.

Will I be able to come back?

You should be fine with the travel. However, better to check closer to your departure date since things are in flux.

Should my coworker try for an H-1B Visa or a Green Card?

Your coworker's employer needs to work with an immigration attorney to determine the optimum strategy.

Can I continue working on my F1 EAD (valid Aug 17) while my application is pendingAOS/ AOS EAD through marriage to a USC?

yes you may continue work based on your OPT ead.

Can a member of a foreign army obtain asylum in the USA, after suffering great torture and persecution from his government?

yes it is possible to seek asylum in the united states on those grounds.

yes. you will need to submit form i-693 completed by a uscis designated civil surgeon with your AOS application. use this feature to find a doctor...

Immigration: what happens to H1-B status if an I-140 petition is denied for material misrepresentation?

You will need to share the details of the misrepresentation to understand the implications for the H1-B. Better to consult an immigration attorney...

As a Canadian Sole Proprietor, can I work remotely from the US on a TD Visa ?

Per the description, the work will be considered a violation of the TD status.