Abstract: A waste stream having anaerobically biodegradable components is fed to an anaerobic reactor where the components react with microorganisms to biodegrade the components and produce biomass and biogas. Mixing occurs in select portions of the anaerobic reactor, particularly the bottom and top portions of the reactor. Relatively heavy solids settle to the bottom and are mixed with the mixed liquor while relatively light or fine solids float to the top portion of the anaerobic reactor where they are mixed with the mixed liquor. Mixed liquor is pumped from an intermediate portion of the anaerobic reactor to a membrane separation unit where the mixed liquor is separated into a permeate stream and a retentate stream that is concentrated with solids.

Abstract: A waste stream having anaerobically biodegradable components is fed to an anaerobic reactor where the components react with microorganisms to biodegrade the components and produce biomass and biogas. Mixing occurs in select portions of the anaerobic reactor, particularly the bottom and top portions of the reactor. Relatively heavy solids settle to the bottom and are mixed with the mixed liquor while relatively light or fine solids float to the top portion of the anaerobic reactor where they are mixed with the mixed liquor. This leaves an intermediate or middle portion of the anaerobic reactor where the concentration of solids is relatively lower compared to the concentration of solids in the upper or lower portion of the anaerobic reactor. Mixed liquor is pumped from the intermediate portion of the anaerobic reactor to a membrane separation unit where the mixed liquor is separated into a permeate stream and a retentate stream that is concentrated with solids.

Abstract: Acoustic mats include a face layer and an absorptive layer having first and second surfaces wherein the second surface of the absorptive layer may be secured to said face layer. The mat further includes a plurality of discrete segments secured to the first surface of the absorptive layer such that regions of the first surface of the absorptive layer may be exposed, thereby allowing sound to pass between adjacent discrete segments into the absorptive layer.

Abstract: Acoustic mats include a face layer and an absorptive layer having first and second surfaces wherein the second surface of the absorptive layer may be secured to said face layer. The mat further includes a plurality of discrete segments secured to the first surface of the absorptive layer such that regions of the first surface of the absorptive layer may be exposed, thereby allowing sound to pass between adjacent discrete segments into the absorptive layer.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed which provides distraction of the talo-tibial joint so as to allow performance of arthroscopic surgery of the ankle. The apparatus is readily connectable to a standard operating table and allows for adjustment of the amount of tension induced to the patient's ankle. The apparatus includes a unique foot engaging device which includes only two straps; a first calcaneus strap and a second dorsum strap. The straps are connected to one another and to the foot and ankle of the patient by use of hook and loop-type material fasteners. The use of such fastening material allows ready adjustment of the straps about the patient's foot and ankle so as to provide proper plantar and dorsiflexion when the cable of the distraction apparatus is attached to the ends of the calcaneus strap.