Abstract: The present invention is directed to non-standard cheese products and their methods of manufacture. More particularly, this invention is directed to the manufacture of cheese products by blending a cheese analog or a cream cheese substitute, a standard cheese having the desired flavor profile, and an acidified dairy slurry. The non-standard cheese products of the present invention have functional and organoleptic properties similar to standard cheese products in spite of reduced levels of cholesterol and saturated fats. The non-standard cheese products of the present invention are soft and easily blended with other food ingredients, making them ideally suited for use as ingredients in industrial food applications (e.g., baked products, dessert fillings, icings, and the like). Especially preferred non-standard cheese products of this invention include soft cheeses such as, for example, cream cheese and Neufchatel cheese.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and method for washing a biological chip cartridge. A washing station comprises a cartridge holder that includes at least two cartridge mounting tubes that are structured to retain the biological chip cartridge on the washing station without doors. At least one fluid source communicates with one of the mounting tubes and a waste dump communicates with another mounting tube. A fluid controller controls delivery of a fluid from the fluid source to the mounting tube.

Abstract: An improved shoulder brace having a pair of shock absorbing saddle assemblies and cups for protecting the acromioclavicular and glenohumeral joints is disclosed herein. Each saddle assembly includes a resilient, ring-shaped member for seating over and conforming to its respective acromioclavicular joint. The cups overlie each saddle assembly, and form a shock absorbing air space over each saddle assembly. Additionally, each cup includes anterior and posterior portions for protecting the front of the glenohumeral joint, and the back of the scapula respectively. Finally, each saddle assembly includes an upper arm pad which is attached to its respective saddle by means of an omni-directional hinge joint. The improved shoulder brace provides lightweight and effective protection for the shoulder joints without impairing the agility of the athlete.