Abstract: Several embodiments are disclosed for a door system to secure the cockpit of an aircraft. One embodiment includes a frame which is hingedly coupled to an interior wall of an aircraft, such that the frame can swing from a first configuration to a second configuration. In the first configuration, the cockpit door is accessible and is not in a secure area. In the second configuration, the cockpit door is not accessible allowing the cockpit door to be opened in a secure area.

Abstract: An electromagnetic radiation seal, particularly adapted for sealing a rotary or linearly movable shaft penetrating a shielded enclosure includes a housing mountable on an enclosure wall and forming a cavity delimited by the housing and the shaft and which is filled with metal particulates, such as tungsten or lead shot pellets. The metal particulates are in intimate contact with the shaft and with the seal housing to prevent transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the interior and exterior of the enclosure at the penetration formed by the shaft.

Abstract: A fracture reduction clamp for the reduction of a fractured bone. The fracture reduction clamp is particularly suitable for surgical procedures wherein a bone having a fracture is to be fixated with a fixation apparatus after reduction of the bone with a strap. The fracture reduction clamp includes a bifurcated strap guiding head for contacting and firmly gripping the fractured bone, and a strap retainer disposed between the strap guiding head and a rotatable strap tensioner for retaining the ends of the strap being used to reduce the fractured bone. The strap guiding head can include a retractable spike for enhancing the grip of the fractured bone by the fracture reduction clamp. Rotation of the strap tensioner will tighten or loosen the strap about the fractured bone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to cartilage extracts and to a method of producing the same. Shark cartilage extracts having anti-angiogenic, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-collagenolytic activities have been obtained by an improved process. The process comprises the steps of obtaining a crude cartilage extract in an aqueous solution, this crude extract being fractionated to recover molecules of a molecular weight less than about 500 kDa. Some of the biologically active components of the extract are prepared by further fractionation. The cartilage extract can be used for treating diseases or conditions having etiological components selected from the group consisting of tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, inflammation, metalloprotease activity and collagenolysis. Several cosmetic applications based on the capacity of the liquid extract to improve skin conditions are also disclosed. A simple and efficient process for the preparation of cartilage extracts is also disclosed.

Abstract: An electric gun, such as a handgun, is operable to fire a cartridge having an electrically ignitable bullet propelling charge disposed therein. The cartridge includes a non-conductive casing and a center electrode which conducts an electric signal to the ignitable charge and through the charge to the bullet or to a second electrode on the cartridge. A firing signal is generated by a circuit which includes a microcontroller and plural code signal producing switches for entering a predetermined authorization code to unlock the cartridge firing circuit. Infrared sensors are mounted spaced apart on the gun handgrip in such a way as to arm the circuit for firing only when the gun is being gripped in a predetermined manner. Operation of a trigger closes a firing signal switch connected to the microcontroller to effect a firing signal delivered to the electric cartridge. The gun body may be fabricated substantially of a suitable plastic material.

Abstract: A method of reducing or eliminating off-flavor in water or fish by controlling cyanobacteria or algae in the water wherein cyanobacteria or algae produce agents that cause the off-flavor. The cyanobacteria or algae are susceptible to a new Bacterium NRRLB-30043 which heretofore has not been identified or recognized as a useful agent in controlling cyanobacteria or algae. By simply treating a body of water having an off-flavor with Bacterium NRRLB-30043, the off-flavor is reduced or eliminated. Commercial fisheries or nurseries which produce channel catfish for human consumption will benefit from using this environmentally friendly Bacterium NRRLB-30043 to reduce or eliminate off-flavor in the catfish.

Abstract: A lighting system for use in areas of low-level lighting, such as a planetarium, theater, museum, or auditorium, which improves visibility of objects without detracting from the overall desired low-level lighting. The lighting system provides a safe and low cost way to illuminate certain areas of a darkened room while maintaining an overall dimly lit environment.