Abstract: A spectrophotometric method and device are described which are particularly useful for on-line monitoring and control of blood parameters. Determination of a blood parameter without measuring or directly following another blood parameter, is made possible by using information contained in scatter and at least three distinct detection locations. Calibration using means for scattering a light beam to a suitable reference geometry, is beneficially used. Constant values related to the detection locations are derived. Later, these constants may be used to determine a blood parameter. Two different wavelengths and at least for detectors may be used. The device is beneficially applied to extracorporeal circuits, and may be used to optimize dialysis.

Abstract: An improved extrusion apparatus having an internal deckle, includes a toothed rack and a rotatable gear for positioning the deckle. The apparatus may include an independently adjustable, upstream deckle. A brake mechanism that assists the control of deckle movement, is also provided. A tongue and groove, sliding fit of the deckles may be used.

Abstract: An improved welding rod for joining plastic materials is provided. The welding rod includes a core of electrically resistive fiber, and a winding of electrically resistive fiber separated by a plastic barrier layer. Also provided is a method for joining plastic materials using the welding rod.

Abstract: A composition useful for rotational molding and method of rotomolding are provided. The composition advantageously includes particulate matter of significantly different sizes. A first polymer is provided as particulate matter of one size, and a second polymer is provided as particulate matter of a smaller size. During rotomolding, the first polymer forms an inner layer and the second polymer forms an outer layer. Beneficially, foaming may be provided during rotomolding to foam the inner layer.

Abstract: A polyolefin-based composition useful for rotational molding, is provided. A polyethylene resin blend is beneficially used. The composition advantageously includes a nucleating agent. Rotomolded containers having improved resistance to puncture are beneficially provided. Also provided is a method of rotomolding the composition.

Abstract: An interactive communication apparatus including a containing structure provided with a plurality of apertures to allow reaching within the containing structure to touch-contact an unknown object within the structure, is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of partitions which divide the interior of the containing structure into spaces which are open to one another and into which the apertures open.

Abstract: A novel molded structure especially useful as a rigid, load-bearing structure, is provided. Also provided is a novel process for molding the structure, which may be in the form of a pallet. By the process, the structure is chilled as it is being formed. Recycled resins including contaminants of limited compatibility may be used.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel process for preparing composites including layers having thermally distinct processing requirements. Beneficially, the process may use a single manifold die. By the process, useful containers may be manufactured.

Abstract: A topical preparation including papain and protease, is provided. Glycerine is present in a major amount, by weight. The preparation promotes healing and the relief of pain.

Abstract: An improved extrusion apparatus having an internal deckle system, is provided. The extrusion apparatus includes a body portion which includes a flow passageway. The deckle system includes a deckle member having a full width, manifold plug portion and a fin-shaped plug portion, each extending through an end of the body portion into the flow passageway.

Abstract: A colorimetric test strip useful for analysis of free chlorine is provided. In a preferred embodiment, 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine is the colorimetric indicator. Beneficially, the carrier for the indicator has been treated to have a pH that eliminates chloramine interference. Advantageously, the indicator in free base form and a suitable water-soluble buffer may be deposited on the carrier using a combined solution of indicator and buffer.

Abstract: A novel coating process for making dustless color concentrate in granular form, is provided. The granules are individual resin particles coated with pigment and binder.

Abstract: An improved extrusion apparatus includes an adjustable deckle and a flow channel in the deckle that makes possible extrusion of a composite stream, and in particular a side-by-side composite stream. Beneficially, an end plate of the apparatus includes an inwardly projecting portion disposed in precision sliding fit within the deckle channel. Also provided is a process for composite extrusion with width adjustment.

Abstract: An improved apparatus providing for uniformity of web thickness is disclosed. In one aspect, the apparatus includes a plurality of gap-controlling, thermal energy sources, and in heat-exchange communication with the thermal energy sources, an assembly for compensating for temperature variation proximate to the thermal energy sources and across the apparatus width. The thermal compensating assembly includes a heat exchange jacket, and in combination therewith, a heat-exchanging, working fluid that undergoes a phase change in performing its heat exchange function.

Abstract: A novel molded structure especially useful as a rigid, load-bearing structure, is provided. Also provided is a novel process for molding the structure, which may be in the form of a pallet. By the process, the structure is chilled as it is being formed. Recycled resins including contaminants of limited compatibility may be used.

Abstract: The present invention provides for improved delivery of anaesthetic to an airway. By the invention, topical airway anaesthesia is passively provided. A method in accordance with the invention, provides for release of a suitable anaesthetic in aerosolized form from a canister containing the anaesthetic, and utilizes an oropharyngeal airway.

Abstract: A crosslinkable polyethylene-based composition useful for rotational molding and, when cured, beneficially characterized by exceptional percent elongation after long term exposure to degradation conditions, is provided. The composition advantageously includes a polyalkylene terephthalate as a polymeric additive.

Abstract: A foamable composition useful for rotational molding, is provided. The composition advantageously includes an ethylene vinyl ester copolymer as an additive. The additive beneficially has a higher melt index than the base resin of the composition.

Abstract: An improved process for production and delivery of a plastisol foam is provided. By the process, plastisol foam is maintained under controlled pressures and conditioned to enhance homogeneity and percent foam. Also provided is a process for intermittently dispensing a fluid such as a plastisol foam, by which drip may be prevented. Additionally provided is novel apparatus for preventing drip.