Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods for determining the fertility of a sperm sample or a source of a sperm sample; the methods comprising labeling the sperm sample with a zinc probe, identifying presence and/or localization of zinc associated with spermatozoa in the sample and determining the fertility of the sample based on the zinc presence and/or localization in the spermatozoa as compared to a reference pattern associated with non-capacitated spermatozoa or a reference pattern associated with sperm capacitation. Also disclosed are methods of improving sperm fertility and/or decreasing premature capacitation while handling, storing, or transporting semen, the methods comprising adding exogenous zinc to a sperm sample or semen sample. Also disclosed are compositions for improving sperm fertility and/or reducing premature capacitation, the compositions comprising exogenous zinc ions.

Abstract: A hydraulic circuit includes a control valve connected to a pump, a hydraulic reservoir, hydraulic work connections and a cylinder. A controllable check valve is connected between the work connections and the control valve. An overpressure safety device is connected between each work connection the corresponding check valve. In order to prevent sagging of a load on the cylinder, the overpressure safety device discharges hydraulic fluid between the check valve and the work connection to reduce an overpressure. The overpressure safety device includes an overpressure valve and a throttle connected downstream of this valve to throttle the flow of hydraulic fluid discharged through the overpressure safety device.

Abstract: An improved fire department connection (FDC) having an accessible debris filter box interposed vertically in the line to permit the removal of undesired introduced solids to prevent the solids from clogging the sprinkler system which is in fluid communication with the base of the FDC. The box has a permanent filter, or removable filter media or a combination of the two types of filters, all accessible via a front removable plate thereon. The debris filter box may also be interposed vertically in other fluid flow systems that are subject to the introduction of undesired solids.

Abstract: A transfer apparatus for bag packages in a packaging machine has a pair of tongs with jaws for transferring a flat bag which is delivered in a vertical plane, to bag holders of a conveyor apparatus on a path extending transversely to the plane (I) in which the bags are delivered. For quiet operation, which also needs little readjustment or supervision, the jaws are actuated via connecting rods and a lever mechanism. The tongs are rotatably supported on a pivot arm which is pivotable coaxially with the axis of rotation of the crank of the lever mechanism.