Abstract: Organic, small pore area materials (“SPMs”) are provided comprising open cell foams in unlimited sizes and shapes. These SPMs exhibit minimal shrinkage and cracking. Processes for preparing SPMs are also provided that do not require supercritical extraction. These processes comprise sol-gel polymerization of a hydroxylated aromatic in the presence of at least one suitable electrophilic linking agent and at least one suitable solvent capable of strengthening the sol-gel. Also disclosed are the carbonized derivatives of the organic SPMs.

Abstract: An automated system to facilitate redemption of value against a single purchase price includes a first module to allocate a first value, of a first value type, to a user within a transaction system. The first module is further to allocate a second value, of a second value type different from the first value type, to the user within the transaction system. A second module is to enable a user to redeem both the first value and the second value against a single purchase price.

Abstract: A squeeze-type bottle of the type containing a liquid, a syphon tube extending within the liquid and a nozzle communicating with the syphon tube includes an anti-syphon device disposed between the syphon tube and the nozzle, whereby expulsion of the liquid due to a pressure differential between the inside and the outside of the bottle when the bottle is not being used is prevented. The anti-syphon device is such that the bottle may be used in an inverted position.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an improved light bulb life extender device made in a small disc-like form and designed to be removably insertable into an Edison-type light bulb socket. The inventive device is operative to place in series with a source of electrical power a silicon bilateral voltage triggered switch specifically designed to allow a voltage output of a predetermined percentage of the voltage inputted thereto. Through this reduction in voltage, the associated light bulb will burn slightly less brightly but with significantly extended life span.

Abstract: A disc designed to be placed between a light bulb and the bottom of a mating Edison socket into which the light bulb is screwed is capable of attenuating power by rectifying alternating current to the bulb in one mode and in another mode is capable of passing full current to the bulb. Thus, by lightly screwing the bulb into the socket, the bulb glows dimly, its power being supplied through the rectifier. When the bulb is more tightly screwed into the socket, the disc is compressed and the device applies full power to the bulb. The switching is accomplished by offsetting the rectifier and allowing pressure exerted between the light bulb's center contact and the bottom of the socket to operate a switching mechanism, preferably located at the center of the disc. The switching mechanism shunts the rectifier in the full-power mode of operation.