Abstract: This invention relates to a novel method of preparing 3-alkyl-substituted glutaric acids and 2-alkyl-substituted succinic acids from 5-alkyl-substituted-1,3-cyclohexane-diones or 3-alkyl-substituted-5-ketohexanoic acids via transition-metal catalyzed oxidation.

Abstract: A biasing member (11) having opposed faces (11a, 11b) with a matrix of tapered holes (19) which provide a plurality of closely spaced, inclined biasing surfaces (12) is disposed in the path of a flowing gas. The gas molecules rebound from the biasing surfaces to upset the normal velocity distribution so that more molecules of gas have greater velocity components along the centerline of the holes in the general direction of gas flow when the biasing surfaces are divergingly inclined and more molecules of gas have reduced velocity components in the direction of gas flow when the surfaces are convergingly inclined in relation to the direction of gas flow. The beneficial results are an increase in the velocity of a flowing gas and thrust forces on the biasing member in the opposite direction to gas flow and, in the alternative, a reverse in the direction of gas flow through the biasing member reduces the velocity.

Abstract: A device for removing self-adhesive labels from a substrate includes a blade portion and a handle portion. The blade has a first normally downwardly facing flat surface for contacting the substrate and a second opposed normally upwardly facing generally convex surface. The first and second surfaces come together along a generally curved periphery at a small angle to define a sharp edge. The blade and handle are preferably of unitary construction and may be fabricated from a self-lubricating plastic material such as acetal resin, thus avoiding the need for a separate source of lubricant.

Abstract: Biologically active compositions are prepared by reacting an active hydrogen containing precursor with an isocyanate compound in the presence of solid particulate matter.

Abstract: An apparatus for separating adhesively connected material, such as pressure-sensitive labels. A thin blade having a wedge-shaped periphery is connected to a handle which extends angularly upward from the blade. The blade portion is retained in a sheath having inner surfaces of absorbent material. A lubricating substance, such as a silicone fluid, is evenly distributed throughout the absorbent material of the sheath. When the blade portion is inserted into and withdrawn from the sheath, the lubricant is applied to all surfaces of the blade, permitting nearly frictionless contact between the blade and the material to be separated.