Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method for the processing and optimization of flight plans is disclosed. Information regarding a plurality of previous flight plans is received over a digital network and is stored in at least a database. The database preferably includes aviation fuel price information, aircraft performance information, and aviation weather information as well. Upon receiving a request, a server generates at least an optimized portion of a flight plan. In one form, historical flight plan data of others is automatically used to aid in the determination of the optimized route offered to the user for review, with the resulting final flight plan being electronically filed with the FAA upon approval. In a further form, the user may arrange fuel transactions at intermediate destinations with the service provider receiving a fee in exchange for facilitating the transaction.

Abstract: A wound dressing comprises in combination (i) a first wound contact layer which preferably has a positive effect on the healing of the wound, and (ii) a second layer of greater hydrophilicity than the first layer.

Abstract: The invention is related to a lancet wheel (1) having a plurality of lancets (2) in a ring-shaped arrangement, the lancets (2) comprising a lancet body (4) that ends in a lancet tip (3). A lancet wheel (1) according to the invention has a carrier (5) that carries the lancets (2), whereby the lancets (2) are connected to the carrier (5) via bars (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) that allow for mobility of the lancets (2) relative to the carrier (5).

Abstract: Provided are methods, kits and compositions suitable for use in organic production for killing, controlling or suppressing a plant by administering to surfaces of the plant a herbicide composition comprising a herbicidally effective limonene component and an emulsifying agent in an aqueous emulsion, wherein the composition has a pH greater than 5. Also provided are methods, kits and compositions for killing, controlling or suppressing a plant, comprising administering to surfaces of the plant a herbicide composition comprising a herbicidally effective limonene component and an emulsifying agent in an aqueous emulsion, wherein the composition includes a wetting agent and an optional oil.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for floral displays. In some embodiments the floral displays include interlocking features that couple a cage structure to a base. These interlocking features help retain blocks of water-retaining foam in between the cage and the base. Some embodiments further include attachment tabs around the outer periphery of the display that further hold the cage and base together.

Abstract: A modular ceiling fan housing unit designed to create a focused column or columns of downwardly moving air such that there is little deflection when the column or columns of downwardly moving air arrives at the ground level. The modular ceiling fan housing includes an elongated body element having a fluid impelling device to create the downwardly moving air. At least one plate disposed within the elongated body element directs the downwardly moving air into columns. The modular ceiling fan housing unit may be coupled to another modular ceiling fan housing unit to provide additional columns of downwardly moving air. The modular ceiling fan housing units may be coupled in various configurations, depending on the type of application. Furthermore, the modular ceiling fan housing unit or multiple modular fan housing units may be coupled to an elevated structure located either above or below the housing units.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to various methods for measuring the amount of an analyte present in a biological fluid using an electrochemical testing process. Various embodiments are disclosed, including the use of AC test signals and the performance of tests having a Total Test Time within about 2.0 seconds or less, and/or having a clinically low Total System Error.

Abstract: A test strip with a covering layer having a novel slot. The slot divides the inventive covering layer into two parts and provides a vent opening that allows air to escape as fluid enters a cavity or sample receiving chamber formed in the test strip. In preferred embodiments, the covering layer is clear such that the user can see through it and the slot doubles as a “fill line.” The user can thus watch the fluid sample enter the test strip, progress through the capillary cavity, and then stop at the slot or fill-line. This provides positive assurance to the user that the sample size is sufficient and the test strip has been filled properly. The present invention also provides an advantageous method of mass-producing the inventive test strips without having to align the slot or vent opening laterally with respect to the test strips and without having to punch a vent opening. The method is also well suited to mass production by roll processing techniques.

Abstract: A medical liquid transfer system includes a pump configured to transfer liquid between at least two containers. A detachable connector is detachably secured to the pump. The detachable connector has at least one pump passage to transmit pumping pressure from the pump to at least one of the containers. The detachable connector can include one or more liquid impermeable and gas permeable membranes to ensure the liquid is retained in the detachable connector. After the fluid is transferred the detachable connector is removed and replaced by a new one in order to prevent contamination of the pump. An interlock mechanism is used to prevent premature removal of the detachable connector and/or the container being filled.

Abstract: A lower anchor connection system for securing the child seat to vehicle anchor bites. A single retractor includes a web extendable therefrom connected to a strap having at its opposite ends couplings for lockingly engaging the anchor bights. A release button on the retractor when depressed allows the retractor web to be withdrawn holding the couplings adjacent the child seat in a stored position.

Abstract: For an assembly for receiving body fluids comprising a sampling element (10) that has a collecting area (12) for collecting body fluid obtained by a puncture, it is proposed that the collecting area is formed by a longitudinal slot (12) which is elongated as a capillary that is open on both sides via side openings (28, 30) on the sampling element (10).

Abstract: An adjustable tension spring anchor with rotatable head. A flanged head is rotatably mounted to a threaded cylinder mounted to a first element. The rotatable head is connectable to one end of a tension spring having its opposite end attached to a second element. A pair of mutually opposed flat surfaces on the cylinder and a socket at the end of the cylinder allows the cylinder to be rotated to adjust tension without twisting of the attached spring.

Abstract: Described are methods for treating a topical wound in a patient. The methods involve applying to the wound a wound dressing including a collagenous biomaterial isolated as a sheet of tissue from urinary tract tissue of a mammal.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, a container comprises a cylindrical fabric piece having first and second ends, a top cylindrical band attached to the fabric piece at or near the first end, and a bottom cylindrical band attached to the fabric piece at or near the second end. The container also includes a cylindrical body member having top and bottom circular ends. The bottom band is frictionally and concentrically positioned alongside the inner surface of the body member near the bottom end, the top band is frictionally and concentrically positioned alongside the inner surface of the body member near the top end, and the fabric piece extends along and covers the outer surface of the cylindrical body member.