Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for maintaining pet waste in a fully-encapsulated environment whereby waste may be removed and litter may be added/replaced in a substantially sealed, dust-free, and clean manner. In one aspect, the pet waste management system comprises a sealed means by which litter may added and/or removed and/or exchange with fresh litter without the substantial release of contaminated dust and materials from the litter system. The invention also provides a vessel or container for receiving spent litter and/or for housing fresh litter where said vessel or container comprises a connection means for sealably connecting the vessel or container to an enclosed pet management system so that litter may be added and/or exchanged therewith. Further, the invention provides a continuous bagging dispenser fitted to a pet management system which allows for continuous removal of pet waste from the pet management system.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus, systems and methods relate to an interlocking slat cover system. Edge lugs disposed around a substantially planar mat secure the cover in place. Center lugs can also be disposed within openings on the mat to further prevent movement of the cover. The cover can be made of relatively soft rubber, and generally serves to prevent cover movement as well as injury and disease in the livestock.

Abstract: Litter compositions are provided comprising sodium bentonite and various fillers. These litter compositions have substantially the same clumpability properties as a composition consisting of only the sodium bentonite.

Abstract: A support base for a vertical section, wherein the base comprises an upper surface, a lower surface and a perimeter edge. The upper surface has at least two slots into each of which is inserted a lower edge of the vertical section, thereby maintaining the vertical section in an upright position. Multiple support bases are used in combination with multiple vertical sections to assemble a geometric structure that is placed upon a substantially flat surface, and is typically utilized as an animal enclosure, which is particularly effective as a dog enclosure.

Abstract: A pet bed with lights to allow a pet to easily see the bed. A circuit for turning the lighting on and off can include a pressure switch, a remote control or a timer.

Abstract: A feed bin with a lateral discharging auger chute is used for the deliver of a bulk particulate feed, the bin including a hopper in which feed is held defining a lower taper floor forming a lower opening which directs the contents by a horizontal auger positioned within the lower opening into a horizontal chute where the particulate feed is dispensed. The feed bin with an auger is a component part of an overall system for the deliver and exchange of bulk feed through storage and exchange bins for the convenience and used by ranchers and bulk feed distributors.

Abstract: An improved animal feeder with an insertable feed restrictor.

Abstract: A bulk feed bin providing storage, transport and dispensation of a quantity of particulate animal feed, the container having a gravity feed hopper with an upper sliding lid, a lower feed chute with a spring-loaded sliding closure, the bin providing an elevated lower base portion supporting the bin having a pair of skid rail slots use in lifting each bin with a skid loader or other lift equipment. Each bin is stackable upon another, with each upper sliding lid being opened or closed while stacked and each chute sliding closure selectively opening and closing while stacked to evacuate the bin contents.

Abstract: A pet feeding station is provided that generally includes a top panel with apertures for receiving feeding bowls and a central aperture that receives no feeding bowl and feeding bowls received by the apertures Attached to the top panel are a front panel, a rear panel and two side panels. Because the central aperture does not receive a feeding bowl, a household animal with long ears can feed at the pet feeding station without having its ears come into contact with the contents of a feeding bowl, the ears passing through the central aperture or along a side of the feeding station.

Abstract: A training device for a dog includes a first cuff element configured for attachment to a first hind leg of a dog, a second cuff element configured for attachment to a second hind leg of the dog and a connecting element connecting the first cuff element to the second cuff element and sized to prevent the dog from lifting either the first hind leg or the second hind leg to the side or separate the hind legs to squat. The device prevents the dog from urinating when wearing the device. When the dog alerts its owner that urination is necessary, the owner takes the dog outside and removes the device so the dog can urinate. Upon returning inside, the device is replaced on the dog.

Abstract: A novel pet treat is provided. The pet treat defines a multi-dimensional object that is edible. The pet treat has a profile that provides enhanced aerodynamic properties when it is dropped, flicked, thrown or released. A method for dispensing an animal treat is also provided wherein the pet treat is mechanically dispensed by locally actuating a dispenser, or by automated dispensing based on motion of the pet, or a timer, or by remote control with the use of a personal computer or a wireless communications device having appropriate software or firmware downloaded. The pet owner or authorized user may command the dispenser to actuate or dispense a pet treat at any time. Automated motion event and timer based actuations are preferably enabled when the pet is alone or the pet treat dispenser is unattended.

Abstract: An exercise equipment exercise equipment that can readily switch arrangement of a person exercise apparatus and a dog exercise apparatus between the state where a person and a dog run facing each other and the state where the person and the dog run side by side. The person exercise apparatus includes a frame, a crank mechanism having a crank shaft rotatably supported by the frame, a crank coupled to the crank shaft, and a pedal rotatably supported by the crank, and a joint rotatingly driven by the crank mechanism. An annular travelling belt travels with a dog, a roller drives the travelling belt, and a transmission mechanism transmits rotational motion of the joint to the rollerAn input shaft is aligned with a rotary shaft of the joint with respect to a mounting face of the exercise equipment-A. coupling mechanisms is detachably engageable with the joint at each end.

Abstract: The bird feeder provides a bird feeder with an improved rain shield that is removably supported above the reservoir of the feeder. A plug is secured to the hanger rod to support a rain shield above the base of a feeder while also allowing a user to pass the cover over the plug to access the reservoir in the base for access to the interior of the feeder, such as for adding more feed to the feeder and for cleaning.

Abstract: A transgenic non-human mammal has a genome that includes an early-immediate enhancer of human cytomegalovirus (CMV enhancer), a ?-actin promoter and the entire gene region of human matrix metalloproteinase 2 (hMMP2) disposed downstream of the promoter. The hMMP2 is systemically expressed in the transgenic non-human mammal, which thus provides a suitable animal model for studying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and related diseases and conditions.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions (e.g. cells and transgenic animals) and methods relating to engineered Ig loci that permit expression of particular antibodies or antibody segments while still permitting recombination and/or maturation process for antibody optimization.

Abstract: Genetically modified non-human animals and methods and compositions for making and using the same are provided, wherein the genetic modification comprises a humanization of an endogenous signal-regulatory protein gene, in particular a humanization of a SIRP? gene. Genetically modified mice are described, including mice that express a human or humanized SIRP? protein from an endogenous SIRP? locus.

Abstract: A skin for reclaiming a used or protecting a new fishing lure, a double-wrapped lure, and a related method of making the lure skin, and readying it and shrink wrapping it around a fishing lure, include: (a) a shrink wrappable, paper-thin polyester sheet; (b) a design printed on the polyester sheet, the polyester sheet comprising a design-free zone along its longitudinal side edges; (c) the lure skin forming a tubular shape with open opposite ends for receiving the fishing lure, the longitudinal side edges being adhered to one another, forming a central, lower seam; and (d) between about one and about four spaced apart skin holes in the central, lower seam, each hole corresponding to a belly hook eyelet of the fishing lure. This simplified abstract is not intended to limit, and should not be interpreted as limiting, the scope of the claims.

Abstract: A carrying system comprises: a rigid profiled guide, a base sole and a plurality of intermediate plates; with the sole and the plates all extend frontally and transversely from a single front surface of the guide. The guide extends in an elevation direction (Z) and comprises a profiled concave track. A flexible structure for human carrying is attached within the system for grouped transport of rods, stakes and accessories. The invention applies in particular to conventional fishing like surf casting, in particular in a body of water such as, for example, seashore, lakeshore, canal bank and riverbank.

Abstract: A jaw spreader device is adapted to spread apart the jaws of a fish to facilitate removal of a hook or lure from the fish. The device has a spring biased tong-like configuration wherein in the normal configuration; the distal ends are spread apart. A lock mechanism locks the device in a compact locked position to facilitate insertion between the fish jaws into the mouth of the fish. The working ends of the each tong includes a flattened blade, an arcuate bend and a transverse spreader bar. Upon insertion of the device into the jaws/mouth of the fish release of the lock mechanism, the jaws are forced apart and biased to provide a stable enlarged opening. The spreading device may then be manually compressed to facilitate withdrawal from the fish.

Abstract: A fish receptacle. The fish receptacle includes a container having a hinged lid with a door assembly providing access to an interior of the container. The door assembly enables users to engage a fish, hands free, thereby enabling users to manipulate the fish and subsequently store it in the interior of the container without utilizing their hands. The door assembly includes an aperture and a frame therearound, wherein the aperture provides access to the interior of the container. The frame includes a track having rails and slot, wherein a sliding member is slidably disposed. The sliding member is movable between a closed position and an open position along the track, thereby enabling the sliding door assembly to be opened to expose the aperture and/or closed onto a fish to pin it against a wall of the frame for hands free manipulation.

Abstract: A system and method of monitoring and controlling cellulose-consuming pests in a predetermined location provides for the use of an assembly that has a main body with a cylindrical upper portion and a lower portion continuously co-axially formed with the upper portion. The lower portion is formed as blades meeting at a lowermost point and defining a sharp bottom point that helps penetrate the soil in the selected location. A plurality of cellulose-containing bait units are detachably fitted in the lower portion and the upper portion. The bait units fitted in the lower portion are retained by the blade portions, which engage radial slots of the bait units. A moisture-retaining member is positioned in the upper portion above an uppermost of the bait units. A removable cap frictionally fittingly engages with the upper portion. The cap has an opening allowing water to be poured into the main body to moisten the bait units and make them more attractive to foraging insects.

Abstract: A self-propelled agricultural application machine comprising a chassis which carries a storage tank for the material to be applied is provided. The chassis comprises a central longitudinal beam from which at least a pair of wheels is suspended. The narrow chassis allows steerable wheels to be positioned at tolerable track widths whilst permitting a large steering angle and thus small turning radii.

Abstract: A boom sprayer having an inner boom section and an extendable outer boom section moved by a drive assembly including a pinch roller system. The boom sprayer included a suspension assembly including a shock absorbing material for enabling suspension of the outer boom section with respect to the inner boom section.

Abstract: Firearm rests for hunting stands are provided. A firearm rest includes a first arm and a second arm. The second arm is spaced apart from the first arm along a lateral direction. The first arm and second arm each include a body extending between a first end and a second end, the body including a fixed portion and a rotational portion that is rotational between an extended position and a retracted position. The firearm rest further includes a cross-beam extending generally along the lateral direction between the first arm and the second arm. The cross-beam is coupled to the first arm at the first end and coupled to the second arm at the first end. The cross-beam has a position along a vertical direction in the extended position that is above a position of the cross-beam along the vertical direction in the retracted position.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, compositions and devices for stabilizing the extracellular nucleic acid population in a cell-containing biological sample using a poly(oxyethylene) polymer or mono-ethylene glycol as stabilizing agent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for reducing electrical disturbance of a cell's resting membrane potential comprising administering an effective amount of a composition comprising an effective amount of a local anaesthetic and of one or more of a potassium channel opener, an adenosine receptor agonist, an anti-adrenergic, a calcium antagonist, an opioid, an NO donor and a sodium hydrogen exchange inhibitor.

Abstract: Electrode systems have been developed for use in perfusion systems to measure the electrical activity of an explanted heart and to provide defibrillation energy as necessary. The perfusion systems maintain the heart in a heating state at, or near, normal physiological conditions; circulating oxygenated, nutrient enriched perfusion fluid to the heart at or near physiological temperature, pressure and flow rate. These systems include a pair of electrodes that are placed epicardially on the right atrium and left ventricle of the explanted heart, as well as an electrode placed in the aortic blood path.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions consisting of: (a) at least one ethylene-releasing compound, and (b) at least one fatty acid ester, alone or in combination with one or more excipients, vehicles or additives, and/or (c) one or more noxious agents. The invention also relates to the use of said composition and to methods for controlling parasitic plants and/or hemiparasitic plants that cause infestations in certain trees. The composition of the invention is characterized in that it exhibits a high degree of adhesion to the parasitic and/or hemiparasitic plant is selective and acropetal, and hast excellent stability and water-impermeability, allowing the prolonged and constant release of ethylene.

Abstract: Spray drift may be reduced during spray applications. Spray drift during the application of a pesticidal or crop protection spray tank solution may be reduced by mixing the pesticidal or crop protection spray tank solution with a drift control formulation containing a maltodextrin and a C12-C22 mono- or di-carboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

Abstract: Cationic antimicrobial polymers have been synthesized by a bulk addition polymerization of a nucleophilic agent comprising two tertiary amines and an electrophilic agent that comprises two leaving groups and an aromatic ring between the leaving groups. The reaction solvent for the polymerization is chosen to allow precipitation of the cationic polymer at the polymerization temperature, thereby limiting molecular weight. Quaternization and polymerization occur concurrently. The cationic polymers can be highly active against Gram-negative and Gram-positive microbes, and/or fungi. The cationic polymers can also be non-hemolytic and non-cytotoxic at the effective concentration against the microbes.

Abstract: A waterless and essentially alcohol-free sanitizer composition or aerosolized hand sanitizing composition containing a quaternary ammonium salt such as benzalkonium chloride to kill germs and bacteria, a volatile carrier such as cyclomethicone, additional moisturizers, and optionally fragrance or other additives.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the method of producing an antimicrobial composition characterized in that it comprises the steps of: a) splitting an lauric oil treated with activated carbon; and b) recovering a composition comprising 90% or more, by weight of free fatty acids. The invention further relates to antimicrobial compositions obtained by said process, to feed, food or beverage comprising said composition and to their uses.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for modulating non-root plant growth of a plant employing plant regulatory peptides, nucleotides encoding same, receptors therefor, binding agents thereof or agonists or antagonists thereof. Such methods encompass methods for increasing shoot growth or accelerating shoot development of plants, whereby said plants: yield a greater amount of above-ground plant matter than an untreated or wild-type plant grown under the same conditions; grows faster than an untreated or wild-type plant grown under tire same conditions; develops faster than an untreated or wild-type plant grown under the same conditions. The methods find particular application wherein the conditions comprise stress conditions, and in particular abiotic stress conditions, which may be selected from increased salinity, drought, nitrogen limitation and pH stress.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a method for controlling undesired vegetation at a plant cultivation site, the method comprising the steps of providing, at said site, a plant that comprises at least one nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a wild-type or a mutated protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) which is resistant or tolerant to a PPO-inhibiting herbicide by applying to said site an effective amount of said herbicide. The invention further refers to plants comprising wild-type or mutated PPO enzymes, and methods of obtaining such plants.

Abstract: Described is a broad spectrum, synergistic fungicidal composition when used for the preservation of a glued wood product comprising as active ingredients: (A) triadimefon, and (B) cyproconazole characterised in that the weight ratio of (A):(B) is from about 20:1 to about 1:1, the composition being further characterised in that the application rate for the composition is from about 10 gai/m3 to about 6,000 gai/m3.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a combination comprising at least one host defense inducer and at least one biological control agent in a synergistically effective amount for controlling bacterial harmful organisms in useful plants. The biological control agent is selected from specific microorganisms and/or a mutant of these strains having all the identifying characteristics of the respective strain, and/or a metabolite produced by the respective strain. In a preferred aspect of the invention the host defense inducer is isotianil or a combination of isotianil and acibenzolar-S-methyl. The present invention also relates to a method for controlling bacterial harmful organisms in useful plants by treatment with a combination comprising at least one host defense inducer and at least one biological control agent in a synergistically effective amount.

Abstract: The present invention relates to naphthyl- or isoquinolinyl-substituted isothiazoline compounds of formula I wherein the variables are as defined in the claims and description. The compounds are useful for combating or controlling invertebrate pests, in particular arthropod pests and nematodes. The invention also relates to a method for controlling invertebrate pests by using these compounds and to plant propagation material and to an agricultural and a veterinary composition comprising said compounds.

Abstract: Disclosed are a single liquid-phase herbicide composition comprising by weight of the composition: (a) from 0.1 to 1% of metsulfuron-methyl; (b) from 1 to 20% of thifensulfuron-methyl; (c) from 30 to 93% of one or more fatty acid esters of C1-C4 alkanols; and (d) from 5 to 25% of one or more surfactants having an emulsifier property, and a process for preparing the composition.

Abstract: This invention is related to the use of a volatile antimicrobial compound against pathogens affecting humans comprising contacting infected areas with an atmosphere containing an effective amount of a volatile antimicrobial compound in gaseous form. The volatile antimicrobial compounds provided include certain oxaborole compounds, for example benzoxaboroles. Delivery systems are provided to take advantage of the volatile nature of these antimicrobial compounds. The method and use disclosed can be combined with other volatile compounds.

Abstract: The invention relates to quaternary ammonium multi-dentate mono-, bis-, tris- and tetrakis-phosphonate compounds, processes for preparing quaternary ammonium multi-dentate mono-, bis-, tris- and tetrakis-phosphonate compounds, antimicrobial coating compositions comprising quaternary ammonium multi-dentate mono-, bis-, tris- and tetrakis-phosphonate compounds and method of treating a surface with said compositions to provide a durable, antimicrobial-treated surface.

Abstract: Disclosed are biocide compositions. The compositions are useful in applications relating to the production, transportation, storage, and separation of crude oil and natural gas. Also disclosed are methods of using the compositions, particularly in applications relating to the production, transportation, storage, and separation of crude oil and natural gas.

Abstract: The invention provides for a low pH disinfectant composition that includes a relatively low amount of alcohol. Also provided is an article of manufacture that includes a textile and the composition, as well as methods of using the composition and article of manufacture (e.g., for reducing the number of microbes located upon a substrate, for killing or inhibiting a broad spectrum of microorganisms, for killing or inhibiting spore forming bacteria, and/or for disinfecting a substrate). The composition can optionally include a stable residual antimicrobial compound, thereby providing a combination of high-level disinfection and long-lasting residual effect.

Abstract: An antimicrobial composite includes a polymeric support and at least one transition metal mounted onto the support surface. The transition metal may be silver, and the support material may be a non-reactive plastic such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The composite may be encapsulated by a permeable or porous outer layer. Preparation of the composite may involve mixing an aqueous salt solution containing the transition metal with the support in the presence of a surfactant, precipitating the metal onto the support, and reducing the metal to its elemental state. The resulting composite in which the polymeric support surface includes the elemental metal is useful in the treatment of water and ice to inhibit or prevent microbial growth.

Abstract: According to the present invention new isolates of bacterial strains have been shown to possess unique properties. These bacterial strains are plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR), posses an enhanced competitive advantage at colonizing leguminous plants, and enhance the overall performance of leguminous plant growth. Further still, the present invention discloses a novel method for screening and selecting bacterial strains having the aforementioned beneficial characteristics.

Abstract: A composition for control of bed bugs and pests includes alcohol or distilled water in an amount of about 80% to 95%, and an effective amount of about 3% to 15% of cedar oil or neem oil, and up to about 5% of one of citrus sinensis, lavender oil and lemon grass oil which formulation is effective for kill and/or control of a bed bug and pest and/or a bed bug and pest egg. A method of treatment uses the composition.

Abstract: Provided is a formulation including various natural extracts for a variety of human applications.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are antimicrobial compositions comprising mixtures of botanical extracts, synthetic antimicrobial agents and essential oils which do not rely solely upon alcohol to produce their antimicrobial effects.

Abstract: The present application in particular is related to a method of estimating a humidity level in a steam cooking chamber (4) of a steam cooking appliance (1). The method comprises successively measuring static or quasi-static pressure values (P1, . . . , Pn) prevailing within the steam cooking chamber (4); successively calculating from the pressure values (P1, . . . , Pn); and setting and using the humidity index value (EH1, EHn) as an actual measure for the humidity level.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for seasoning a cooked food product is disclosed. A non-aqueous liquid seasoning mixture is applied onto a surface of a cooked food product. The seasoning mixture includes at least 35% wt solids.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a method for the prevention or retarding of staling during the baking process of bakery products which comprises the step of adding a sufficiently effective amount of at least one intermediate thermostable and/or thermostable serine protease in said bakery products. The present invention further relates to an improver composition for the prevention or retarding of staling during the baking process of bakery products, characterised in that it comprises at least one intermediate thermostable and/or thermostable serine protease.