Abstract: Vacuum pressure is applied in a process for extrusion of fat-based confectionery materials, particularly chocolate, chocolate substitute and chocolate analog materials. In the process, a fat-containing confectionery material is fed to, into and through an extruder having a flow constriction and die to obtain an extrudate from the die under conditions of temperature, pressure, contraction ratio and extrusion rate so that the material and the extrudate obtained from the die are in a non-pourable state and so that the material is deformed plastically in the extruder and so that the extrudate is plastically deformable for a period of time, and in the process, the vacuum pressure is applied to the material at a point prior to passing the material through the flow constriction.

Abstract: A surgical drape support for use in eye surgery or other surgery, for maintaining adjustable support of surgical drapes above the patient's nose and mouth, creating a small tent into which oxygen is supplied by a hose, allowing the patient to breathe freely. With the front legs of the support placed between the patient's shoulders and the operating table the greatest stability is achieved and the rear legs find their best location as the support is adjustably positioned for height by raising or lowering the frame on its legs with the locking screws just loose enough for a pivoting motion. The knurled locking screws are tightened to maintain the prefixed position and four point stability of the instrument on the operating table, resulting in a more relaxed state of mind for both patient and surgeon.

Abstract: Support means for holding a nursing bottle are adapted to be removably secured to an infant seat such that the nursing bottle is held tightly in an upright stand-by position within reach of the infant and can easily and safely be manipulated by him.