Abstract: A system and method for sharing information relating to supply chain transactions and marketing data in either sell-side or buy-side environments. The system includes the ability to share information relating to ERP functionalities, surveys, target marketing and catalogs between multiple supply chain trading partners. Users of the system may elect to activate only certain functionalities and features based on their particular preferences.

Abstract: Material compositions for use in orthopedic implants comprising blends of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and hard ceramic powders prepared by blending powdered UHMWPE and the ceramic powder in a high shear mixer are described. Orthopedic implants are then fabricated by pressure/thermo-forming the ceramic/polymer blend into a net shape prosthesis or a rod suitable for subsequently machining the desired components using diamond tooling. Net shape forming is the preferred method for preparing the orthopedic implants.

Abstract: A throttle valve apparatus for controlling fluid flow includes a first shaft, a first throttle blade, a second shaft, and a second throttle blade. The first shaft extends along a first axis. The first axis extends across an interior portion of a throttle body and the first shaft is pivotably supported by the throttle body. The first blade includes a first pivot end and a first free end. The first blade is fixed to the first shaft at the first pivot end. The second shaft extends along a second axis. The second axis also extends across the interior portion of the throttle body and the second shaft is pivotably supported by the throttle body. The second blade includes a second pivot end and a second free end. The second blade is fixed to the second shaft at the second pivot end. The first and second axis may be aligned.

Abstract: Non-oxide debond coated reinforcing fibers that are resistant to oxidation at temperatures above about 1200° C. are described. The debond coatings are non-hygroscopic, and exhibit debond performance equal to or better than the prior art such coatings. The coated fibers of the present invention comprise a non-oxide fiber with or without a thin conventionally applied pyrolytic carbon layer overcoated with a non-hygroscopic silicon and titanium containing single or multi-layer structure that imparts all of the properties demanded of a debond coating while additionally providing exceptional oxidation resistance protection.

Abstract: A new knockout tool for prying open knockout rings on electrical boxes to allow electrical circuit to be inserted therethrough. The inventive device includes an elongate handle having opposite proximal and distal ends and an working arm member coupled to the proximal end of the handle. The arm member has a terminal end with a notch which extends between the lateral sides of the arm member.

Abstract: Environmental monitoring of low concentration of organic compounds in a medium such as ground water or another environmental fluid is effected by using a diffusion cell (112) having a polymeric membrane formed into a helical tube (125) and immersed in the environmental fluid so that organic compounds at ppb and ppt concentrations diffuse into and through the polymeric material. A carrier gas in the polymeric tube acquires a concentration of the organic compounds substantially in equilibrium with the concentration of the organic compounds in the environmental fluid. For the purpose of permitting monitoring with detectors (116) which are not sensitive to extremely low levels of organic compounds, a concentrating device such as a thermal desorption tube (114) can be provided for processing the gas and periodic thermal activation to discharge therefrom organic compounds to be detected at a sensor.

Abstract: A Diffusion cell for use in monitoring levels of gases or volatile organic compounds within bulk media such as ground water, effluent, or air. The diffusion cell is of sealed hollow construction and has a membrane providing an interface between a gas phase contained within the diffusion cell and the bulk media. The membrane is permeable to gas and volatile organic compounds while being relatively impermeable to water (i.e. hydrophobic). The diffusion cell includes a core of porous material to minimize the internal volume within. In use, a sensor is located in close proximity to the core of porous material to minimize the dead volume between the sensor and the diffusion cell. The minimization of the internal and dead volumes allows for decreased response times to fluctuations in levels being measured, lending the diffusion cell to real time monitoring applications.