Abstract: A method and system for storing and generating hydrogen. The method comprises generating hydrogen and heat from the reaction of a metal or metal compound with water. The heat generated from this reaction may then be converted to other forms of energy such as by passing the heat through a thermal electric device to recover electrical energy for storage in a battery. In an alternative and preferred embodiment, the heat is used to drive additional reactions for generating more hydrogen and is preferably used to drive an endothermic dehydrogenation reaction resulting in increased hydrogen generation and consumption of the heat.

Abstract: A method for decreasing nicotine and other substance use in humans is disclosed. Iptakalim hydrochloride (IPT) is a novel nicotine acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) blocker. According to the disclosed method, IPT is used to block human ?4?2-nAChR function. Specifically, IPT exhibits a selective blockade of ?4 subunit-containing human nAChR subtypes. According to the disclosed method, IPT is thus used to block the major nicotine targets in the brain, the ?4?2-nAChRs natively expressed in midbrain (VTA) DA system, the brain reward center, and in turn to reduce the nicotine-induced reward signals, namely dopamine level increase in nucleus accumbens. Therefore, IPT is capable of servicing as a nAChR antagonist agent and thus is a novel treatment for decreasing nicotine dependence in humans.

Abstract: The horizontal conveyor of an ice re-surfacing machine implements auger flights in which successive half circles of the flight have slightly different radii. The successive contact of larger and smaller radius flights against ice building up in front of the horizontal conveyor breaks up and dissipates the ice.

Abstract: A nutritional supplement formulation for the enhancement of blood sugar regulation, prevention and treatment of insulin resistance, prevention and treatment of dysinulinemia, prevention and treatment of Syndrome X, and reduction of diabetic complications is disclosed. The formulation combines herbs, minerals and vitamins known to reduce insulin resistance with herbs, minerals and vitamins known to reduce blood sugar levels.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for separating target particles from surrounding materials such as separating gold particles from the clays in placer deposits. The enveloping material is converted to a slurry, then pumped into a collision chamber through pairs of opposing nozzles. Sets of slurry collide, dislodging target particles from surrounding material. The outgoing slurry is then further processed to separate the particles dislodged by the collision.

Abstract: A backyard swimming pool slide includes a 90 degree runway curve, a banked runway rail to offset centrifugal force, and a high volume water diffuser source to enhance the ride. Also disclosed is an integrated ladder, platform and handrail assembly and a center stanchion for cantelever support at the exit end of the slide.

Abstract: An improved termiticidal combination is formed by adding a liquid cellulose source to a standard liquid termiticide. The cellulose source may be a water soluble polyester such as a cellulose ether like methyl cellulose. The cellulose in the combination functions as termite bait, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the poison, even at lower concentrations, by inducing termites to ingest poisoned cellulose and return with it to share it with the colony. The liquid form allows the combination to be applied with a standard power sprayer, and permits laying of a continuous barrier or curtain as well as injection spraying into walls of structures.

Abstract: A compact tankless water heater of modular configuration to accommodate a range of potential demands is disclosed. A heat transfer chamber is divided into subchambers, each of which may may mount more than one heating element. Notched passageways at the top of each dividing wall allow water passage between chambers, and a plurality of temperature sensors act in concert with a flow sensor and microprocessor control of the heating elements to maintain a constant set point output water temperature.

Abstract: A secure storage device for jewelry and other small items is disclosed. A fabric exterior is made to look like the upper portion of an article of clothing such as a blouse, sweater, or shirt and in use is hung on a standard coat hanger in a hotel closet or at home. A plurality of attachment devices on the inside back surface hold individual jewelry pieces for ready selection and access, and the device may be closed along the front and bottom to both secure and obscure the presence of its contents.

Abstract: An improved termiticidal combination is formed by adding a liquid cellulose source to a standard liquid termiticide. The cellulose source may be a water soluble polyester such as a cellulose ether like methyl cellulose. The cellulose in the combination functions as termite bait, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the poison, even at lower concentrations, by inducing termites to ingest poisoned cellulose and return with it to share it with the colony. The liquid form allows the combination to be applied with a standard power sprayer, and permits laying of a continuous barrier or curtain as well as injection spraying into walls of structures.

Abstract: An improved boiler of the warm water or steam type includes a door with a water chamber to assist in cooling the boiler. Water moves from the boiler to the door chamber through a bottom pipe on the connected vessels principle. Water or steam exit the door through a top pipe and return to the boiler. In a warm water boiler, a circulating pump in the upper pipe maintains water flow through the door.

Abstract: An improved termiticidal combination is formed by adding a liquid cellulose source to a standard liquid termiticide. The cellulose source may be a water soluble polyester such as a cellulose ether like methyl cellulose. The cellulose in the combination functions as termite bait, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the poison, even at lower concentrations, by inducing termites to ingest poisoned cellulose and return with it to share it with the colony. The liquid form allows the combination to be applied with a standard power sprayer, and permits laying of a continuous barrier or curtain as well as injection spraying into walls of structures.

Abstract: Disclosed is a golf ball carrier for conveniently carrying and protecting a plurality of golf balls. A sleeve of padded material, open at both ends, has an elastic band at each end to retain the balls. A ball can be extracted by squeezing the sleeve above the ball, and balls can be inserted by pushing them past the band. The carrier may also incorporate holders for golf tees, and other items and a shoulder or belt strap and attachment clasp.

Abstract: A horse boot of the type having a sole and flexible envelope with re-entrant folds for surounding the hores's hoof below the coronary band is improved by adding a movable back strap and movabale toothed side gripping plates capable of sliding forward during attachment of the boot. This modification provides an adjustable fit boot that better secures the boot to the hoof in a self-adjusting and natural way.

Abstract: A firearm muzzle flash suppressor comprising a cylindrical body for attachment to the firearm barrel, having a plurality of open-ended helical flutes angled and offset in the direction of rotation of the exiting projectile.

Abstract: A hand pressure threshold sensor generates a signal representative of the application of excessive force to a hand held instrument to which the sensor is coupled. By using the sensor, a person having impaired tactile sensibilities, such that he is unaware of the degree of force he is applying, an instrument may be alerted that he is applying excess force. By reducing the force being applied to the implement, the person will avoid harming his hand or the implement as a result of his unknowing application of excessive force. The sensor may be provided with a threshold which outputs a signal representative of inadequate grasping force as well. A dedicated sensor may be incorporated directly within an implement, for example a fountain pen. A portable sensor may be utilized with a variety of hand held implements.

Abstract: Disclosed is a stacked die carrier assembly and method for packaging and interconnecting silicon chips such as memory chips. The carrier is constructed from a metalized substrate onto which the chip is attached. The chip is wire bonded to the conductor pattern on the substrate. Each conductor then is routed to the edge of the substrate where it is connected to a half-circle of a metalized through hole. A frame is attached on top of this substrate. This frame has also a pattern of half-circle metalized through holes that aligns with the holes on the bottom substrate. The combination of the bottom substrate with the silicon die, and the frame on top, forms a basic stackable unit. Several such units can be stacked and attached on top of each other. The top unit can finally be covered with a ceramic lid that also has a matching half-circle metalized through hole pattern along its edge.