Abstract: A method of extracting beta-glucan from autolyzed yeast material comprises a pre-wash step with water, an alkaline wash extraction step, a post-wash step with water, and if necessary, a drying step (e.g., spray-drying), with a dewatering and centrifugation between each step. The extraction improves efficiency by skipping the acidic and organic washes common to beta-glucan extraction. It has been discovered that beta glucan products yielded from this process have improved immunological properties, stimulating the expression of several immune-related genes in human macrophages without corresponding levels of stimulation for inflammatory pathways. The resulting beta glucan product can be administered as a supplement or adjuvant to existing anti-viral therapies.

Abstract: An attachment system for a ventilated rain screen cladding system that is ASHRAE 90.1 compliant eliminating thermal breaks where anti-crush brackets have threaded horizontal apertures which engage threaded horizontal fasteners that are secured by threads into the wall studs and where anti-crush brackets have threaded diagonal apertures which engage threaded diagonal fasteners that are secured by threads into wall studs.

Abstract: An apparatus for extruding a poly(arylene ether) blend comprises a continuous screen changer disposed between a die and an extruder. The continuous screen changer comprises an extruder block, an outlet block which is in fluid communication with the extruder block, a reel of filtering means which is disposed to allow passage of the screen through the extruder block and out the outlet block; and, a means for control of screen advancement through the extruder block and outlet block.

Abstract: An apparatus for extruding a poly(arylene ether) blend comprises a continuous screen changer disposed between a die and an extruder. The continuous screen changer comprises an extruder block, an outlet block which is in fluid communication with the extruder block, a reel of filtering means which is disposed to allow passage of the screen through the extruder block and out the outlet block; and, a means for control of screen advancement through the extruder block and outlet block.

Abstract: A number of eye shades having a headband coupled to a transparent visor are disclosed. The visor extends downward from the headband so that it is positioned in front of a wearer's eyes when worn. The visor may have a resilient protective nosepiece attached thereto. The headband may be made of a flexible material that wraps around a top edge of the visor and is affixed thereto, such as by sewing or adhesive. The eye shade may be foldable including a foldable headband and vented end members that are attached to and fold behind the visor. The headband and visor may be attached to an interior surface of a hat to provide an item of headgear.