Abstract: A pad for transmitting acoustical waves between an ultrasound probe and a target surface. The pad includes a first layer having a first porous portion which defines first layer pores therethrough. The first layer pores have a first layer pore dimension. The pad further includes a second layer having a first porous portion which defines second layer pores therethrough. The second layer pores have a second layer pore dimension. The second layer is attached to the first layer to define a space therebetween. The first porous portion of the first layer overlies the first porous portion of said second layer. An ultrasound couplant is disposed in the space defined between the first and second layers. The ultrasound couplant has a molecule size that is less than or substantially equal to the first layer pore dimension and less than or substantially equal to the second layer pore dimension.

Abstract: A method for conducting an ultrasound procedure on an object having a target surface. The method includes the step of providing an ultrasound probe having an acoustical wave emitting end portion. A pad for transmitting acoustical waves between the ultrasound probe and a target surface of an object also is provided. The pad includes a first layer having a first porous portion which defines first layer pores therethrough. The first layer pores have a first layer pore dimension. The pad further includes a second layer having a first porous portion which defines second layer pores therethrough. The second layer pores have a second layer pore dimension. The second layer is attached to the first layer so as to define a space therebetween. The first porous portion of the first layer overlies the first porous portion of the layer. An ultrasound couplant is disposed in the space defined between the first layer and the second layer.

Abstract: A powdered beverage concentrate contains a source of calcium, vitamin D, a stabilizing gum such as gum arabic, and vegetable oil. A beverage can be made by reconstituting the beverage concentrate with water, fruit juice, or any other suitable liquid matrix.

Abstract: The need for a highly viscous couplant gel or water spray to form an acoustical couple for ultrasound testing is eliminated by employing an ultrasound probe module. A porous membrane and an ultrasound probe cooperate to define a chamber which contains a liquid acoustical couplant. When pressure is applied to the liquid acoustical couplant it passes through the porous membrane. The porous membrane and chamber are disposed such that ultrasound signals going to or away from the ultrasound probe pass through the liquid acoustical couplant and porous membrane.

Abstract: A system for delivering an active substance has sustained release of the active substance in the intestinal tract. This delivery system is especially useful for an active substance such as a .beta.-lactam antibiotic which preferably has minimal exposure to the acidic environment of the stomach. Particles comprise an active ingredient disposed in a core which has at least one coating of a prolamine and one coating of an enteric compound thereon. The particles may be very small and suspended in a liquid medium.