Abstract: Processes for preparing substantially citrostadienol-free phytosterols are disclosed. The processes described include dissolving a liquid phytosterol in a hydrocarbon solvent, optionally with added methanol, and crystallizing the phytosterol compounds. Also described are the resulting phytosterols which are substantially citrostadienol-free, and preferably contain less than 0.5% by weight citrostadienol.

Abstract: A release film which is a polymeric film coated with a release resin which is a water soluble copolymer containing styrene is disclosed. The release film is especially suitable for receiving a layer(s) of metal for release of the metal flakes. The released metal flakes possess enhanced optical properties.

Abstract: An electrostatic spraying device for use in spraying liquids having resistivities of the order of 5.times.10.sup.6 ohm.multidot.cm and viscosities of the order of 1 Poise at a spraying rate up to at least 4 cc/min (especially paint formulations) is provided with an annular shroud (112) of semi-insulating material (e.g. bulk resistivity of the order of 10.sup.11 to 10.sup.12 ohm.multidot.cm) which is electrically connected to a high voltage generator (126) for supplying high voltage to liquid emerging at the outlet of the nozzle (114). In this way, a voltage is established on the annular electrode (126) which is of the same polarity, and substantially the same magnitude, as the voltage applied to the liquid thereby modifying the potential gradient in the immediate vicinity of the nozzle outlet so as to allow the use of the high voltage needed to effect efficient spraying of liquids having the specified resistivity and viscosity at flow rates up to at least 4 cc/min.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel polymeric compounds, more particularly to novel block or graft copolymers which are useful in dispersing inorganic pigments, lakes and/or toners in organic medium, to methods for preparing such copolymers, and to surfactant compositions containing such polymers. The block or graft copolymers of the invention belong to the class in which one type of polymeric component is derived from an oil-soluble complex monocarboxylic acid and another component which is the residue of an alkyl glycol and/or a polyoxyalkylene compounds.

Abstract: A method and composition utilizing thrombopoietin for increasing platelet cell counts in thrombocytopenia is disclosed. The method and composition are suitable for treatments of patients suffering from medical conditions, such as HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy, which result in low platelet cell numbers. Also disclosed are the active moieties or domains of the thrombopoietin molecule.