Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for the improvement of intraplexed assays. This improvement is based upon the use of multiple assay chemistries having different affinity constants (KA) for an analyte. The overall assay displays high precision and predictable behavior because ratios between SMPCS-IDGs having different affinity constants (KA) change based on concentration. The advantages of the Applicant's improved system relative to the system of the '290 patent are that the improved system (1) further increases the statistical significance of results from assays applied to single well samples, (2) improves compensation for multiple sources of error, (3) makes possible further increased precision for each analyte, and (4) improves correlation between instruments, even if the instruments have significantly varying responses to an identical stimulus, (4) makes possible improved determination of a margin of error.

Abstract: The present invention is an electrically controlled propellant comprising a binder, an oxidizer, and a cross-linking agent. The boric acid (the cross-linking agent) has been found to function as a cross-linking agent for the high molecular binder used to make the propellant, thereby improving the composition's ability to withstand combustion without melting. The present invention also may include 5-aminotetrazole (5-ATZ) as a stability-enhancing additive. The binder of the present invention may include polyvinylalcohol (PVA) and/or the co-polymer of polyvinylalcohol/polyvinylamine nitrate (PVA/PVAN).

Abstract: A new process for forming MICs as well as three exemplary categories of MIC formulations is disclosed. MICs disclosed herein include a first exemplary category for which combustion can be initiated and sustained by either a heat (flame) source or electrical power, a second exemplary category of formulations that can be ignited and that sustain combustion at low pressures only with electrical power and a third exemplary category of formulations that can be ignited and extinguished at low pressures only with electrical power. The new process of MIC formulation provides energetic liquid oxidizers in place of traditional solvents, thus eliminating the need for solvent extraction. The energetic liquid oxidizer serves as a medium in which to suspend and grow the 3D nanostructure formed by the cross linked polymer (PVA). As a consequence, the 3D nanostructure entraps the liquid oxidizer, preventing it from evaporating and thereby eliminating the need for solvent extraction, preserves the 3D nanostructure shape.

Abstract: A method and device for automatically assessing loss of hearing sensitivity and compression (recruitment) with user defined frequency resolution by means of extrapolated DPOAE I/O functions and ABRs as well as for automatically fitting hearing aids without any cooperation of the subject tested using a device having a display screen attached to a handheld device generating and collecting otoacoustic emission signals and brain stem response signals into a programmed with a clinical audiogram with fitting parameters for hearing aids calculated on the basis of assessed hearing threshold and compression and identifying the type of hearing required for the individual.

Abstract: A method of operating a mobile service comprising the steps of receiving a first request via the World Wide Web or WAP to create said mobile service, said first request comprising instructions to modify a mobile service template, creating said mobile service from said instructions and said template, receiving a second request to execute said mobile service, said second request comprising an access number and delivered via a text message communication device having an MSISDN, determining said mobile service from a reference table comprising said MSISDN and said access number, and executing said mobile service.

Abstract: A radiant panel for use in radiant heating and cooling systems that provides numerous benefits over conventional panels currently in use. The radiant panel comprises an offset hydronic radiant tube channel in which is nested a hydronic radiant tube that obviates the need to thread the hydronic tubes through the joists in a ceiling installation or the studs in a wall installation. In an alternative embodiment, specific emissivity coatings on each side of the radiant panel further promote the efficient transfer of heat. The system provides increased sound isolation and is robust enough to withstand the crushing forces associated with a floor installation.

Abstract: An exercise device for facilitating a user to perform a variety of exercises using an exercise ball supported on the device is disclosed. The device comprises a pouch having a mouth end wherein the pouch is configured to form a seat portion to the user. The device further includes a plurality of linking members attached to the mouth end by an attachment means and a plurality of straps. The lower end of the plurality of straps is secured to the linking members and the upper end of the plurality of straps is attached to a securing means. Each of the pair of straps is crisscrossed in preparation for attachment to the exercise ball. The crisscrossed straps is looped around the exercise ball and secured by using the securing means. The crisscross arrangement of the straps securely holds the exercise ball in relation to the seat portion.

Abstract: The described embodiments relate generally to methods, systems and devices for sleep stage determination using frontal electrodes. Certain embodiments relate to a system for sleep stage determination comprising a sensing unit and a processing unit. The sensing unit is positioned over a forehead area of a patient and has first, second and third electrodes for positioning at locations on or adjacent the forehead area for detecting electrical potentials of a human head. The processing unit is coupled to the sensing unit for receiving biological signals corresponding to the detected electrical potentials and processing the biological signals to determine a sleep stage of the patient. The processing of the biological signals is based on a plurality of rules.

Abstract: A multi container system of at least one each of the first container, and at least one second and at least one third container, each of which has a chamber therein. The first container has a water retaining chamber with water input and water output as well as a water self leveling means. The second container has a water transfer chamber in which a wicking tray loaded with a wicking medium is placed, preferably on a drainage tray, said medium being used to transfer the water to the plants disposed in a third container's plant receiving chamber. The container #3 nests within the water transfer chamber of container #2, to receive water therefrom by capillary action. Container #1 is fluidly connected to a first container #2 for water transfer, and a series of containers #2 may be linked, as space limitations and grade permit, or as may be desired.

Abstract: A system for increasing the fitness level of a fitness enthusiast. The system includes a personalized set of intensity zones corresponding to increasing levels of exercise intensity. The personalization of the system is accomplished through determining a threshold level based on oxygen consumption or a numerical rating of perception of effort or lactate or metabolism that is unique to each individual. From this determination, an anchor point is created upon which the heart rate values for each of eight zones is based. Each zone corresponds to a multiplier that when factored in to the amount time spent in each zone by the individual, yields a total training load value.

Abstract: A system and method of central auditory processing testing and evaluation provides for identifying clinically relevant neural synchrony in the auditory brainstem pathway. The system or method finds use as a tool to evaluate auditory processing disorders, and hence, potential auditory system and/or learning disabilities. The system or method may further find use in the selection and fitting of hearing corrective appliances such as hearing aid or cochlear implant devices and/or in the selection and implementation of auditory training regimens.

Abstract: An efficient dual-use toilet that provides a simple, easy-to-use and reliable solution to the problem of wasted toilet flush water is disclosed. The improved toilet provides a two-compartment toilet bowl, wherein the main bowl is used for solid waste and a hydrophobic secondary bowl is used for liquid waste. When only the secondary bowl is used, the toilet does not require flushing. When the toilet is flushed for solid wastes, water simultaneously cleanses the secondary bowl. Importantly, the drain line for the secondary bowl is configured such that during the flush cycle air is prevented coming back through the sewer system and into the household. The system is fully automatic and provides a very easy-to-learn “flush and forget” solution for the user. The amount of water flushed to the sewer system is greatly reduced, and consequently so is the burden on fresh water supply systems as well as the energy cost in required to deliver water.

Abstract: The present invention is a ground-based tool for use by horses, livestock and other animals for such animals to scratch themselves without human intervention. The tool is configured and positioned to remove biting insects from animal undersides and to relieve any itching from such insects or from other causes. In a preferred embodiment the device comprises at least one anchor for securing the device to the ground such that a tuft of bristles extends upwardly to a height to allow an animal to scratch its own belly. The device is flexible yet strong enough to withstand the potentially large forces applied by a large animal standing over the device.

Abstract: The present apparatus and method for using the same detects Rapid Eye Movement (REM) in a sleeping mammal and awakens the mammal after the cessation of a specific episode of REM. The system comprises an alarm setting unit for setting a predetermined wakeup time, a data collection unit for collecting physiological data from the mammal over time, a processing unit for determining the occurrence and cessation of REM and for providing a stimulation signal for awakening the mammal within a prescribed window of time before the predetermined wakeup time and after the cessation of REM and after the mammal's nadir in body temperature with respect to time.

Abstract: An improved manually adjustable wave attenuator for a waveguide comprises a resistive portion sandwiched between two dielectric portions. In a preferred embodiment the adjustable attenuator comprises a first card further comprising a dielectric portion and a resistive portion and a second dielectric card of substantially the same thickness as said first card, thereby minimizing the possibility of the resistive material coming into contact with and shorting to the resistive card opening, and reducing the required width of the card channel, while many of the problems regarding RF leakages that occur in conventional systems. Finally, more precisely centering the resistive material to the waveguide center is possible because process of affixing the two cards reduces warpage therein, and puts the resistive film symmetrically between the dielectric portions.

Abstract: A method and device for automatically assessing loss of hearing sensitivity and compression (recruitment) with user defined frequency resolution by means of extrapolated DPOAE I/O functions and ABRs as well as for automatically fitting hearing aids without any cooperation of the subject tested using a device having a display screen attached to a handheld device generating and collecting otoacoustic emission signals and brain stem response signals into a programmed with a clinical audiogram with fitting parameters for hearing aids calculated on the basis of assessed hearing threshold and compression and identifying the type of hearing required for the individual.

Abstract: A compact high efficiency combined biological and physical unsaturated wastewater treatment filter configured for periodic backwashing is disclosed. The filter utilizes packed media and removes pollutants and pathogens from wastewater and other dirty water sources. The filter comprises a periodic backwashing means to less the chance that biofilm growth will clog the media pores. However, such backwashing still leaves sufficient biofilm attached to the media to maintain a very high level of treatment. In the preferred embodiment, the filter utilizes high frequency dosing to cause pore saturation at or near the surface during dosing and shortly thereafter in order to maximize distribution uniformity and to induce downward airflow into the media. The system provides a number of unexpected benefits; including allowing a very low distribution pressure and providing high oxygen transfer at low energy utilization into the filter media for aerobic biodegradation of pollutants.