Abstract: A device for maintaining a plurality of ocean wave energy converters at a predetermined proximity. The device includes at least one deck having a plurality openings, each adapted to receive a portion of an ocean wave energy converter.

Abstract: Microstrip patch antenna (46), feed structure (48), and matching circuit (50) designs for an RFID tag (10). A balanced feed design using balanced feeds coupled by a shorting stub (56) to create a virtual short between the two feeds so as to eliminate the need for physically connecting substrate to the ground plane. A dual feed structure design using a four-terminal IC can be connected to two antennas (46a,46b) resonating at different frequencies so as to provide directional and polarization diversity. A combined near/field-far/field design using a microstrip antenna providing electromagnetic coupling for far-field operation, and a looping matching circuit providing inductive coupling for near-field operation. A dual-antenna design using first and second microstrip antennas providing directional diversity when affixed to a cylindrical or conical object, and a protective superstrate (66). An annual antenna (46c) design for application to the top of a metal cylinder around a stem.

Abstract: The invention herein provides a mode of treating metabolic syndrome, which includes Type 2 diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance in human and other subjects by identifying and administering an insulin sensitizing compound which modulates GRK2 function in the insulin signaling pathway. The invention also provides polynucleotides, polypeptides, vectors, cells, tissues and organisms useful in the identification and treatment of metabolic syndrome. A number of desirable insulin sensitizing aspects are achieved by various embodiments of the present invention.

Abstract: A revenue balancing method and computer program that more quickly, accurately, and easily reconciles or balances revenue contained in cash drawers at the end of cashiers' shifts or breaks while at the same time building or constructing new cash drawers for new shifts. The method permits cash drawers to be constructed and/or replenished with coins from a perpetual inventory of loose coins rather than requiring the use of rolls of coins.

Abstract: A computer-based system (10) and method for dis-identifying personal identifiable information (152, 162) and associated records (172) is disclosed. The system includes a system manager (20) module, an encryption and key management module (30), and a storage module (40). The system manager module (20) stores related sensitive information portions (152) of the personal identifiable information (152, 162), non-sensitive information portions (162) of the personal identifiable information, and associated records (172) in separate databases (100, 110, 120 or 150, 160, 170) in storage module (40) with each database record including one or more hidden links generated by the encryption and key management module (30) that can be used to determine the related records or information in one of the other databases. The hidden links are encrypted so that the relationships between the database records are hidden.

Abstract: A trolley (30) for use with a frame-straightening bench (10) and allowing for moving a vehicle into the bench (10) for initial repair; moving the vehicle out of the bench (10) and into holding area to allow for curing or other time-consuming repair processes or operations, thereby making the bench (10) available for other uses; and moving the vehicle back into the bench (10) for additional repair or final confirmation of a previous repair. A repair jig (140) is coupleable with the trolley (30) for facilitating the alignment and otherwise proper positioning of a portion of the vehicle being repaired. The trolley (30) can also be used with a lift (2072) to separate the vehicle's body from its frame (2010).

Abstract: The present invention relates to polyamide compositions and therapies for treating cells infected with human papilloma virus (HPV).

Abstract: The invention is a system that is movable along a guide. It includes housing having a center of mass, a first wheel and a second wheel, each connected to the housing and configured to rotate about a respective axis. Each axis is displaced from the center of mass to create a rotating moment that biases the first wheel and second wheels into frictional engagement with the guide. The invention also includes a rotator, and controls in communication with the rotator and positioned at a location remote from the housing. The housing moves relative the guide.

Abstract: Laser scanners are used for determining deformation in vehicle bodies and the like, using a laser scanning apparatus in conjunction with a plurality of coded targets suspended from (or in known relationship to) known reference points on the vehicle to calculate three dimensional spatial coordinates defining the actual positions of the targets, and to compare such calculated positions with manufacturer-provided specification values. The present invention provides improved signal collection through the use of an independent synchronization circuit that uses a fiber optic cable for signal collection; improved component isolation through the use of a mounting plate and isolation mounts; improved component alignment through the use of easier and more reliable alignment mechanisms; and improved data collection and processing through the use of onboard data averaging and filtering.

Abstract: A transportable planter apparatus including a housing with a bottom and a sidewall having an edge opposite the bottom, an opening located at the edge adapted to receive a houseplant. A handle associated with the housing and fastened to an arm extends between the handle and the housing, where the arm travels between a recessed configuration and an extended configuration in which the handle extends upwardly from the housing.

Abstract: A feed structure (18) and matching circuit (20) for inductively coupling an antenna (16) with an IC (22) in an RFID tag (10). The tag (10) includes first and second feed structures (26,28) coupled with the antenna (16), a first transmission line (30) coupling the feed structures (26,28), and a matching circuit (20) including a second transmission line (32) having a portion that is substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the first transmission line (30) such that the first and second transmission lines (30,32) inductively couple. Where two or more antenna elements (56,57) are used, the elements (56,57) are sufficiently loosely coupled by inductive coupling that they can operate at nearly the same frequency without forming a single resonant antenna. Thus, for example, different elements can operate at approximately 905 MHz and approximately 925 MHz, respectively, to effectively cover the FCC range of 900-930 MHz.

Abstract: A waterproofing membrane comprising a structure incorporating a fiber layer and wherein to one side of said structure a bituminous mass is applied and another side of said structure is covered on its surface with a substance comprising a mineral or organic filler and an acrylic polymer, whereby said substance comprises between 15% and 25% by dry weight of said acrylic polymer and mixed therewith between 4% and 22% by dry weight of titanium dioxide.

Abstract: A device for capturing power in a wave of a body of water and converting it to useful form. The device includes a housing portion having an opening for receiving flow from a wave in a body of water, and an engine portion within said housing adapted to be acted upon by the flow from the wave, thereby producing electricity. The device also includes at least one float portion to position the device at a desired depth within a body of water.

Abstract: A laser system (10) for use in photonic excitation investigation of a target object, in which the target object interacts with incident photons and emits a corresponding photon which is detected and used to generate an image of the target object. The laser system (10) includes a pulsed fiber laser (14) for producing a laser beam, and a non-linear photonic crystal fiber (16) for carrying the laser beam from the laser (14) to an instrument (18) for photonically exciting the target object. The photonic crystal fiber (16) allows for switching, or tuning, the wavelength of the laser beam. In two-photon microscopy, the laser system (10) allows for providing multiple wavelengths for exciting a plurality of different fluorophores simultaneously. In coherent Raman imaging and spectroscopy, the laser system (110) allows for using a single laser to provide two laser beams of different wavelengths.

Abstract: A pet washing station apparatus in combination with a supply of water adapted for washing a domestic animal having a collar attached to a collar fastener extending from a leash secured to a basin sidewall extending from a basin bottom and ending at a basin upper lip. The upper lip is configured with plural compartments for receiving pet accessories. A converter integrated into the basin sidewall is included for converting the water supply for washing the domestic animal, the converter including an integrated heating source and a distribution system for receiving the water supply and distributing the converted water to the interior of the basin. The distribution system may include a water connector and a spray nozzle for conveniently distributing the converted water to the apparatus.

Abstract: An RFID tag (10) including a virtual short circuit using a stepped impedance transformation from an open circuit or other known impedance point to provide a reference signal to an integrated circuit (22). The stepped impedance transformer (28) does not consist solely of a quarter wavelength transmission line. The stepped impedance transformer (28) may consist of first and second transmission lines (30,32) having different lengths and widths. The RFID tag (10) may also include an impedance matching circuit (20) which does not consist solely of a three-section transmission line. The matching circuit (20) may include a shorting stub transmission line.

Abstract: A device (10) and method for clamping or otherwise securing an esophagus between the crop and certain internal organs, including the viscera, and substantially simultaneously cutting or otherwise separating, or weakening for subsequent predictable separation, the esophagus at or near the clamped location, thereby avoiding pulling apart the crop and the resulting contamination of the carcass.

Abstract: A method for the cationic polymerization of unsaturated biological oils (e.g., vegetable oils and animal oils) based on the cationic reaction of double bonds initiated by superacids is provided. The process occurs under very mild reaction conditions (about 70-110° C. and atmospheric pressure) and with short reaction times. The polymerized oils have a viscosity about 10 to 200 times higher than the initial oil and relatively high unsaturation (only about 10-30% lower than that of initial oils).

Abstract: A dental appliance for maintaining a separation between the occlusal plane surfaces of the posterior teeth in order to avoid or minimize the adverse effects of bruxism, especially while sleeping. The appliance comprises bitepad assemblies, side assemblies for adjustably receiving the bitepad assemblies, and a strap assembly for connecting the side assemblies. Bitepad cores are provided with solid projections and mechanical locks that enhance bonding with associated overmolds for improved durability. Side assembly flanges are divided to achieve independent flexibility and improved conformity for enhanced stability and comfort. A mesial area of the connecting strap assembly is thickened and rigidified to create a flare in the areas of the cuspid roots to minimize irritation and discomfort to the gum tissue.