Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for processing animal manure into a novel and useful product. The system utilizes the combined actions of a hydrocyclone, a dehydrator, and a reactor to clean, dry, and process manure into an absorbent material. The absorbent material, which contains low levels of salt, weed seeds, and pathogens, can be used for a variety of purposes, including but not limited to animal bedding and plant growth material.

Abstract: A wrap device that can be used for tying down articles which are to be shipped or to provide a secure connection to an article comprises a flexible sheet of strong base stock material such as leather, heavy canvas, rubber, plastic, etc. The base stock has a pair of ends and an opening or slot through it that is spaced apart from one end. In use, the stock material is wrapped around an article to be shipped or secured in place. An optional fastener assembly that is connected to the base stock includes a cooperating pair of fastener elements, e.g., Velcro® proximate the ends of the base stock for securing the ends of the base stock together when wrapped around the article that is being shipped.

Abstract: A sensor for detecting bacteria in a perishable food product includes a gas-permeable material including a pH indicator carried by a housing for placement in a spaced relation to food product or packaging surfaces for effectively detecting a change in carbon dioxide levels within the package. One acid-base pH indicator comprises a mixture of Bromothymol Blue and Methyl Orange with the sensor having an initial green color indicating an alkaline pH of approximately 7.2. The indicator turns orange with a decrease in pH resulting from a presence of carbon dioxide due to bacterial growth, such an indicator reflecting a universally recognizable safe to caution color change.

Abstract: A device for detecting bacteria in a perishable food product includes a gas-permeable sensor housing positionable within an interior of food packaging. A pH indicator is positioned within the housing for detecting a change in a gaseous bacterial metabolite concentration that is indicative of bacterial growth, wherein a pH change is effected by a presence of the metabolite. The housing and the pH indicator are preferably safe for human consumption. A method for detecting bacteria in a perishable food product includes supporting a food product by a food packaging element and positioning a gas-permeable sensor housing within an interior of the food packaging element, the sensor including a pH indicator. The food product and the housing are sealed within the food packaging, and the pH indicator is monitored for a bacterial concentration in the food product in excess of a predetermined level.

Abstract: A leaf and vegetation shredder is formed by a power driven rotary blade cupped fan rotating in a fan housing connected in trailer fashion with a riding rotary lawn mower and operatively connected with the lawn mower vegetation discharge opening for increasing the air blast through the fan housing. Friction bars on the fan blades and an arc of the fan housing wall shred leaves and vegetation centrifugally forced therebetween.