Abstract: A litter box includes upper and lower shells having corrugations formed therein that strengthen the walls of the shell and that enable the walls themselves to be relatively thinner than would be required in the absence of corrugations. The relatively thinner walls thus enable the litter box to be formed from less material. The corrugations are configured to enable molding with conventional two-part molds. An upper shell portion has a handle integrally molded therein. When assembled, the upper shell sits atop the lower shell, and the line of junction between the upper and lower shells is oriented oblique to a bottom surface of the lower shell and thus oblique to a floor upon which the litter box may sit. The oblique angle enables a relatively low step-over height at the front and a relatively high height at the rear to resist the penetration of urine.

Abstract: An absorbent sheet for pets that is highly effective in concealing pet excrement. The absorbent sheet includes: a liquid-permeable front-surface sheet; a liquid-impermeable back-surface sheet; an absorbent body that is provided between the front-surface sheet and the back-surface sheet, and that absorbs liquid that has permeated through the front-surface sheet; an intermediate sheet that is arranged between the front-surface sheet and the absorbent body; and a color arrangement region that forms a color arrangement pattern together with at least one of the front-surface sheet, the back-surface sheet, and the absorbent body. The front-surface sheet is formed so as to have a lower total light transmittance than the intermediate sheet.

Abstract: Method and barn (1) for keeping livestock, wherein the barn is divided into one or more housing areas (10, 20, 30) for multiple-day stays of the animals and one or more treatment areas (40, 50, 60, 70, 80) for a shorter, temporary stay of the animals for veterinary inspection of or caring for the animals by a specialist or carer, wherein the animals are staying in living crates (100, 200) positioned on designated barn positions (16) in the housing areas, wherein the barn is provided with a transport device (140, 400) for moving the living crates between the barn positions and the treatment areas.

Abstract: An animal harness for an animal includes a loop of webbing, which encircles the back, neck and shoulder of the animal. A pouch is affixed to the loop. A pulsating device is disposed within the pouch and transmits same to the animal through the chest and about its heart to calm the animal during transport.

Abstract: An animal restraint system includes an arm clamp having a clamp body, a tether, a tether clamp, and a tether connector. The clamp body affixes to a securing arm at or below the animal's head and includes a tether anchor and a tether guide. The tether has a first tether end coupled to the tether anchor, a second tether end, and a middle section forming a loop, with a first loop side extending from the first tether end and a second loop side extending from the second tether end through the tether guide. The tether anchor and the tether guide are positioned to maintain substantial alignment between the first and second loop sides when the loop is tensioned. The tether clamp divides the loop into a primary and secondary loops and maintains a size of the primary loop, and the tether connector is slidably coupled to the primary loop.

Abstract: A hay feeder for large square bales (e.g., 3?×3?×8? ones weighting on the order of 700-800 pounds). The feeder is designed to be operable by one person to load the bale into the feeder and includes an elongated chute with four, vertical side members. In use, one of the side members can be pivoted downwardly to a substantially horizontal position and the elongated hay bale positioned on it. Thereafter, it can be raised back to its vertical position to lift the hay bale with it to a vertical position within the elongated chute. The chute and bale have respective upper and lower end sections and the chute has openings at its lower end section to provide access through them to the lower end section of the hay bale. Cover members are provided to selectively cover and uncover the openings to selectively permit and prevent access through them by the livestock.

Abstract: A pet surgical wrap for covering a pet's wound or the location of an incision. The pet surgical wrap comprises an elongated sheet having a front end, a rear end, a first side, and a second side. Preferably, the elongated sheet has a trapezoidal configuration, such that the elongated sheet tapers from the front end towards the rear end thereof. The first side and second side of the elongated sheet include mating fasteners thereon, wherein the mating fasteners can be overlapped so as to secure the pet surgical wrap in a loop around a pet's torso. The interior surface of the elongated sheet includes a pad thereon for covering the wound or incision when the surgical wrap is disposed around the pet's body.

Abstract: A disposable diaper for pets, having: a diaper longitudinal direction, a diaper longitude-intersecting direction being a direction interesting the diaper longitudinal direction; a rear-side flap section; a stomach-side flap section; and a reference virtual straight line being a straight line in the longitudinal direction of the disposable diaper for pets. The rear-side flap section is configured such that the distance from the reference virtual straight line to an end section on the longitudinal intersection direction of the rear-side flap section differs relative to the diaper longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A disposable diaper for pets, having: a diaper longitudinal direction; a diaper longitude-intersecting direction; a rear-side flap section; a stomach-side flap section; and a tail insertion opening provided in a prescribed area in the diaper longitudinal direction. The disposable diaper for pets is formed such that the length in the diaper longitude-intersecting direction in the rear-side flap section is different from the length in the diaper longitude-intersecting direction in the stomach-side flap section.

Abstract: An animal feeder includes a feed bin configured to hold feed stock. The feed bin has a first feed port. The animal feeder also includes an outer housing positioned around at least a portion of the feed bin. The outer housing has a second feed port. The animal feeder further includes a magnet supported by one of the feed bin and the outer housing. The magnet magnetically couples the outer housing to the feed bin. The outer housing is movable relative to the feed bin between a first position, in which the outer housing is magnetically coupled to the feed bin such that the first feed port and the second feed port are at least partially aligned, and a second position, in which the outer housing is not magnetically coupled to the feed bin and the first feed port and the second feed port are out of alignment.

Abstract: A beehive for honeybees having a configuration that allows a beekeeper to inspect the hive at regular intervals with minimal disturbance to the honeybees. The bees work comb frames contained within an array of master frames. The master frames are pivotably attached to a support pole with connectors fixed to the master frames. The connectors are arranged so that the array of master frames containing the comb frames are side by side and in a rectangular cross section when the beehive is closed. The master frames can be rotated around the support pole either individually or in groups allowing inspection of the comb frames without damaging the comb frames.

Abstract: Disclosed are materials and methods for creating customizable traits in animals. In the demonstration of the principle of the subject invention, a keratin-14 specific promoter is used with red fluorescent protein in the loxp cassette, dominant black (?G23) beta defensin 103 in the pigment cassette, and an SV40 (with intron) polyadenylation sequence. When Cre recombinase (or HTNCre) is applied to the animal's skin in a carrier base (e.g., lipid bilayers), fur is permanently genetically modified to turn black in the shape in which the HTNCre was applied.

Abstract: The present invention provides a non-human animal IKK? which shows fibrosis of tissue, since it lacks IKK? gene in a myofibroblast- and/or smooth muscle cell-specific manner. Since the non-human animal shows pathology highly similar to scleroderma, it is extremely useful as an animal model of scleroderma.

Abstract: Non-human animals comprising a human or humanized IL-4 and/or IL-4R? nucleic acid sequence are provided. Non-human animals that comprise a replacement of the endogenous IL-4 gene and/or IL-4R? gene with a human IL-4 gene and/or IL-4R? gene in whole or in part, and methods for making and using the non-human animals, are described. Non-human animals comprising a human or humanized IL-4 gene under control of non-human IL-4 regulatory elements is also provided, including non-human animals that have a replacement of non-human IL-4-encoding sequence with human IL-4-encoding sequence at an endogenous non-human IL-4 locus. Non-human animals comprising a human or humanized IL-4R? gene under control of non-human IL-4R? regulatory elements is also provided, including non-human animals that have a replacement of non-human IL-4R?-encoding sequence with human or humanized IL-4R?-encoding sequence at an endogenous non-human C IL-4R? locus.

Abstract: Non-human animals comprising a human or humanized IL-4 and/or IL-4R? nucleic acid sequence are provided. Non-human animals that comprise a replacement of the endogenous IL-4 gene and/or IL-4R? gene with a human IL-4 gene and/or IL-4R? gene in whole or in part, and methods for making and using the non-human animals, are described. Non-human animals comprising a human or humanized IL-4 gene under control of non-human IL-4 regulatory elements is also provided, including non-human animals that have a replacement of non-human IL-4-encoding sequence with human IL-4-encoding sequence at an endogenous non-human IL-4 locus. Non-human animals comprising a human or humanized IL-4R? gene under control of non-human IL-4R? regulatory elements is also provided, including non-human animals that have a replacement of non-human IL-4R?-encoding sequence with human or humanized IL-4R?-encoding sequence at an endogenous non-human C IL-4R? locus.

Abstract: Genetically modified mice are provided that express human ? variable (hV?) sequences, including mice that express hV? sequences from an endogenous mouse ? light chain locus, mice that express hV? sequences from an endogenous mouse ? light chain locus, and mice that express hV? sequences from a transgene or an episome wherein the hV? sequence is linked to a mouse constant sequence. Mice are provided that are a source of somatically mutated human ? variable sequences useful for making antigen-binding proteins. Compositions and methods for making antigen-binding proteins that comprise human ? variable sequences, including human antibodies, are provided.

Abstract: The present inventive disclosure is generally directed to a biodegradable device that can house multiple worm-cocoon capsules, as well as an effective amount of shredded organic fibrous materials (such as coir fiber or shredded paper) that is infused with hormones, nutrients, and/or amino acids that are beneficial to earthworms. In some embodiments, these devices are referred to as “Worm Bombs™”, which are planted at effective intervals in gardens and/or compost heaps, leading to stable and vigorous earthworm populations and softened, nutrient-rich soil that is ideal for growing. It is known in the art that earthworm biomass production can be significantly enhanced with the introduction of growth hormones, which inter alia, increases the efficiency of waste conversion of worms.

Abstract: A fishing downrigger and spreader assembly comprising a flat spreader plate having inner and outer mutually parallel planar surfaces and leading and trailing edges where superior and inferior spaced apart apertures for connection to cables are proximate the leading edge and where the trailing edge has superior and inferior spaced apart apertures for releasable connecting fishing line release clips and including an extensible rod one end of which is pivotally mounted to the outer planar surface of the spreader plate and the other end of which carries a fishing line release clip.

Abstract: A line for use in angling sports, such as fly fishing, comprises a braid formed of polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) strands and polyethylene (PE) strands. The PTFE strands and the PE strands are arranged such that in a rest position, an outer surface of the braid is defined by both the PTFE strands and the PE strands and when the braid is placed under tension, the outer surface of the braid is defined at least substantially by the PTFE strands due to bulging of the PTFE strands relative to the PE strands.

Abstract: A fishing float to provide an indication of a strike from a fish may include a hollow housing having a cavity and a module positioned within the cavity of the hollow housing. The module includes a light and a solar panel to provide power for the light via a rechargeable battery for night fishing and a magnetic or manual waterproof switch to turn the unit on for storage. The fishing float has a continuous energy source therefore there is no need to replace batteries by the user.

Abstract: An electronic insect killing apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a base housing a power source; a racket assembly coupled to the base, the racket assembly comprising: an insulating frame forming a central opening; an electrically conductive grid assembly operably coupled to the power source, the electrically conductive grid assembly positioned within the central opening of the insulating frame; at least one insulating strut located within the central opening, the at least one insulating strut formed of a phosphorescent material; and at least one electromagnetic radiation source operably coupled to the power source, the at least one electromagnetic radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation onto the at least one insulating strut.

Abstract: A device for electrocuting pests includes first and second electrodes and an infrared detector. The infrared detector is responsive to infrared radiation emitted by a pest and provides output signals indicating the presence of a pest. A circuit responsive to the output signals and responsive to sensing current flowing between the first and second electrodes, which indicates that a pest is present and in contact with the electrodes, provides high voltage across the first and second electrodes when a selected one of the output signals and the sensing current indicates that a pest is in contact with the electrodes.

Abstract: A bird repelling platform for placement in areas such airfield and transmission towers, or other locations where the landing of birds are unsafe or undesirable. A landing platform is rotatably secured to a fulcrum, which is in turn secured to a base configured to attach to a post. The landing platform may contain weight that causes the landing platform to tilt to one side where the opposite side of the landing platform serves as a perch for a bird to land. Even without weight, a bird landing on the landing platform would inevitably lose its balance and fly away. As birds tend to land at the highest position in its environment, the bird repelling platform can be placed on a high post disposed on an airfield or transmission tower, or on the highest point of the tower.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cryoprotecting agent comprising a cryprotectant being one or more of: dextrin, dextran, isomaltooligosaccharide and derivatives thereof, cryoprotecting and cryopreserved compositions, uses thereof, and methods of cryopreservation.

Abstract: A system for perfusing a biological organ for use as an experimental model includes a housing having sides that define a cavity for containing a biological organ model within a solution. The housing includes a plurality of apertures defined therethrough configured to mechanically interface with a filter, one or more heating elements and one or more sensors. A peristaltic pump is configured to withdraw and pressurize the solution from the housing and reintroduce the solution under pressure into the biological organ. A heat control module operatively connects to the heating elements and is configured to regulate the temperature of the solution within the housing. A data acquisition system operatively connects to the heat control module, the peristaltic pump and the sensor(s) and regulates and monitors the pressure, flow rate and temperature of the solution during electrical treatment of the biological organ.

Abstract: A bio-degradable seed coating composition for enhanced seed protection and propagation consists of a gelatin-based hydrogel formulation consisting of a naturally derived, hydrophilic protein, a sulfated or non-sulfated polysaccharide, a divalent cationic salt, and an azeotropic drying agent. The coating is readily applied to the seed and has enhanced drying functionality. The composition adheres to the seed surface and protects the seed during storage for improved shelf life while still being readily hydrated and water absorbent once planted in the respective growing medium.

Abstract: Erythritol having a specific surface area greater than 0.25 m2/g, preferably greater than 0.3 m2/g, is granulated together with a selected from the group consisting of pregelatinised starch, microcrystalline, cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, maltose, sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol, isomalt, and mixtures thereof. Tablets are prepared and the corresponding process is described.

Abstract: Provided is an antimicrobial non-isotactic polymer based hard or semi-flexible surface in a thermoset and/or thermoplastic resin matrix wherein the active antimicrobial ingredient is copper oxide! Processes for preparing the same and applications thereof are also described. The invention is directed to polymeric solid panels and slab possessing and polymer resin treatments imparting antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and sporicidal properties.

Abstract: A process for obtaining biopolymeric nanoparticles containing Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Neem) is described, which comprises, in Phase I, in (10), preparing an aqueous emulsion of Neem oil and extracts, in Phase II, in (20), preparing a biopolymer solution in organic solvent, followed by mixture of both Phases I and II, and, in Phase III, in (30), preparing an aqueous emulsion of a surfactant and adding it to the Phase I and II mixture, affording a nanoparticle suspension which is stabilized. Biopolymeric nanoparticles and powder microparticles obtained are also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aqueous adjuvant composition containing: a) one or more alkyl glucamides of formula (I) wherein R1 is a linear or branched alkyl group with five to nine carbon atoms and R2 is an alkyl group with one to three carbon atoms; b) water; c) optionally a co-solvent. The invention further relates to the use of such compositions to increase the biological activity of pesticides, preferably of herbicides, and to produce an aqueous pesticide composition.

Abstract: This invention discloses a high alcohol content antimicrobial gel composition for disinfecting the hands, having a soft focus effect (line blurring of visual skin imperfections) on the skin.

Abstract: An insect repellent patch is disclosed of a size and weight compatible for wearing on the clothing or skin of a user. The patch has a gross area not in excess of 232 cm2 and bearing one or more insect repellents having a vapor pressure at 25° C. of not less than about 1×10?6 mm Hg. The total amount of insect repellent is in an amount effective to provide practical mosquito personal area repellency. Kits of such patches, with instructions for use, and methods of providing practical personal area insect repellency are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of using 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on oil palm before harvest of the oil palm fruit to increase oil production.

Abstract: A non-aerosol, foaming high alcohol content hand sanitizer is provided which has excellent antimicrobial activity and tolerance for organic load and excellent residual activity, as well as enhanced moisturization and skin-feel properties over currently marketed alcohol-based sanitizers. The inventive composition achieves an unexpectedly large amount of quality, stable foam even in the presence of significant quantities of skin conditioning agents through the use of novel silicone surfactants and achieves enhanced and prolonged antimicrobial efficacy through the combination of high alcohol content and activity enhancing components.

Abstract: Aniline copolymers and the synthesis thereof for use as antimicrobial (antibacterial, antifungal or antiviral material) material of for the manufacture of antimicrobial objects, suitable for use in the health, food, packaging, water, paint, wood, textile, poultry, glass, paper, rubber, ceramic, seafood, sports, plastic and agricultural industries. The copolymer may be for example (A): where for example R3?H5—CO2H, —CO2Me, or —CO2Et. R is typically H or a C1-C6 alkyl, x is an integer between 1 and 0 and m indicates the degree of polymerisation. Preferred copolymers are copolymers of aniline with 3-aminobenzoic acid, 2-aminobenzoic acid and ethyl 3-aminobenzoate.

Abstract: Herbicidal compositions having an effective amount of aclonifen and the other herbicides pyroxasulfone and picolinafen. These herbicidal compositions have an improved application profile.

Abstract: The present invention relates to new compounds of formula (I) wherein the variables have the meaning as indicated in the claims; in free form and in salt form; and optionally the enantiomers and geometrical isomers thereof. The compounds of formula (I) are useful in the control of parasites, in particular ectoparasites, in and on vertebrates.

Abstract: A synergistic antimicrobial composition containing lenacil and terbutryn is provided. Also provided is a method of inhibiting the growth of or controlling the growth of microorganisms in a building material by adding such a synergistic antimicrobial composition. Also provided is a coating composition containing such a synergistic antimicrobial composition, and a dry film made from such a coating composition.

Abstract: The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, n, A1, A2, A3, A4, Y1, Y2 and Y3 are as defined in the claims. The invention also relates to processes and intermediates for preparing these compounds, to insecticidal, acaricidal, nematicidal and molluscicidal compositions comprising these compounds and to methods of using these compounds to control insect, acarine, nematode and mollusc pests.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pesticide composition intended for protecting plants, crops or seeds against phyto-pathogenic fungi or damaging insects, and the corresponding methods of treatment using the said composition. More precisely, the subject of the present invention is a pesticide composition based on fosetyl-Al, propamocarb-HCl, an insecticide active substance and optionally a further fungicide active substance.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of using ethylene antagonists on oil palm before harvest of the oil palm fruit to increase oil production, wherein the ethylene antagonist is not 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) or aminoethyoxyvinylglycine (AVG).

Abstract: A liquid mixture that forms a film on a surface which inhibits the life functions of bacteria. In particular the film may include copper or silver, or a combination thereof, to provide an environment hostile to bacteria and other infectious organisms.

Abstract: This application relates to methods and materials for providing a benefit to a seed or seedling of an agricultural plant (e.g., an agricultural grass plant), or the agricultural plant derived from the seed or seedling. For example, this application provides purified bacterial populations that include novel seed-origin bacterial endophytes, and synthetic combinations of seeds and/or seedlings (e.g., cereal seeds and/or seedlings) with heterologous seed-derived bacterial endophytes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition comprising at least one biological control agent selected from the group consisting of Paecilomyces lilacinus strain 251 (AGAL No. 89/030550) and Coniothyrium minitans CON/M/91-08 (DSM 9660) and/or a mutant of these strains having all the identifying characteristics of the respective strain, and/or at least one metabolite produced by the respective strain that exhibits activity against nematodes, insects and/or phytopathogens, and at least one fungicide (I) selected from the group consisting of inhibitors of the respiratory chain at complex I, II and III in a synergistically effective amount. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a kit of parts comprising said composition and the use of said composition.

Abstract: A reversible mold comprises a pan having a bottom wall and upstanding side walls surrounding the bottom wall to form an outer receptacle. A convex shape formed in a mid-portion of the bottom wall forms an inner receptacle when the pan is inverted. The outer receptacle of the reversible mold is filled with a first edible batter and caused to set by either baking, chilling or freezing to form a firm shell portion. The inner receptacle is subsequently or in another reversible mold is filled with a second edible batter and caused to set by either baking, chilling or freezing to form a firm filler portion that is inserted into a hollow portion of the firm shell portion. Two such filled shell portions can then be assembled to create a convenience food with a contrasting center.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus has a mixing container disposed in the upper part of the mixing apparatus, preferably standing on a frame, which is open towards the top. The mixing container includes a single-shaft agitator disposed in the lower part of the mixing apparatus. The agitator has a vertically disposed agitator shaft to which is fastened an agitating tool configured as a rotor body which is disposed in the mixing container just above the container base. The single-shaft agitator is a statorless agitator and the rotor body fastened to the agitator shaft is surrounded by an external free space between the rotor body and the container wall of the mixing container. The agitator shaft is adjustable in its spacing distance from the cylinder axis.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for preparing rolled dough sheets are provided. In an example, a dough rolling system can include a rolling board having first and second major surfaces and a first plurality of grooves within the first major surface and a plurality of removable templates configured to insert within at least one groove of the first plurality of grooves, wherein the plurality of templates are configured to define a shape and a thickness for a final dough sheet.

Abstract: A one-step noodle forming mechanism with rolling and cutting is provided, including multi-layer noodle roller sets in s disposed on a machine frame and noodle forming blades disposed below the multi-layer noodle roller sets, in which the multi-layer noodle roller sets and the noodle forming blades are driven to rotate by the same motor through a gear transmission mechanism. The dough entering the noodle forming mechanism is directly made into noodles through rolling and cutting of multiple layers. A noodle machine integrated with producing and cooking including the noodle forming mechanism is also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to dough and dough-based food products having a unique appearance and texture. In a general embodiment, a dough is provided and includes at least one enzyme having an enzyme activity level sufficient to provide the dough with at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of a water absorption ranging from about 58% to about 64%, a fermentation after about 90 minutes, retention of gas cells after sizing and/or baking the dough, good viscoelastic properties after baking the dough, or combinations thereof. The dough may also include the use of a specifically sourced malted barley flour at a level that is not recommended by the baking industry and/or processing parameters that reduce the fermentation time of the dough. Methods for making a dough are also provided.

Abstract: A creamy-textured, bake stable filling including: a liquid component and at least about 1 wt % microparticles, wherein the particle size of the microparticles is less than about 8 microns; and wherein the liquid component includes microparticles in an amount of about 1 wt % to about 30 wt % of the liquid component.