Abstract: A package for storing and shipping food products incorporates a multilayer film lid that includes a gas-impermeable exterior layer and a gas-permeable interior layer. The multilayer film lid is heat sealed to a flange of a tray upon which the food product is supported. The gas-impermeable layer may be delaminated from the gas-permeable layer when it is desired to expose the food to atmospheric gases. Separation of the gas-impermeable layer from the gas-permeable layer is facilitated by a film fracture feature included in the heat seal pattern adjacent a pull tab of the lid. The film fracture feature concentrates the separation forces exerted on the tab in a small area so that the gas-permeable layer of the lid readily breaks at the film fracture feature.

Abstract: A method and system state-of-the-art private VoIP network for delivery of high quality, lower cost voice and data services to business customers across the United States. The unique implementation of the latest networking and Internet technologies over a privately managed network produces Quality of Service that rivals traditional circuit-switched calls and allows customers to capitalize on the convergence of traditional circuit-switched voice networks with packet-based networks. Proprietary account management, call detail recording, and accounting software complements the equipment and satisfies the administrative needs of business customers. Customers receive the added security and flexibility of “virtual private networks” through the implementation of IP technology, advanced switching equipment, and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (“ATM”) operation of the fiber optic backbone.

Abstract: A packaging cushion is disclosed for supporting and protecting objects during shipment. The cushion has upper and lower surfaces and one or more compartments for supporting the objects in positions so that the objects are higher than the lower surfaces of the cushions. The cushions may include upper and lower nodes which increase the separation distance between the objects when the cushions are stacked one on top of another. The cushions may be held in a stack by an outer box, or by wrapping the stack of cushions in a protective film, eliminating the need for an outer box.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process for extracting pigments, namely carotenoids, from plant material. The process includes the step of combining shredded plant material with an enzyme. The enzyme breaks down the plants cellular walls releasing the carotenoids contained within the plant cells. The enzyme added to the plant material can be pectinase, cellulase, hemicellulase, or mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A foam generating device and unique process for generating same is provided which generates foam by passing a foamable liquid through a swirl chamber and orifice to produce a vortex spray of finely divided particles.

Abstract: An inflatable aquatic rescue board is provided having particular advantage in rescuing persons who have sustained injuries while swimming or diving, and who frequently must be held rigid to prevent further injuries while being removed from the water. Prior to inflation, the rescue board is quite flexible, permitting it to be rolled into a compact bundle for storage. Then, upon activation of a self-contained compressed gas supply, the rescue board quickly becomes stiff and buoyant to form an ideal aquatic stretcher. The board comprises a planar structure having two impervious parallel broad faces constrained to a maximum separation by internal members extending therebetween. Transverse reinforcements provide additional rigidity and two longitudinally extending flat springs facilitate unrolling of the rescue board under water during rescue.