Abstract: A drain cassette for a dialysis unit has a fluid channel between venous and arterial connection ports, and a valve may controllably open and close fluid communication between a drain outlet port and the venous connection port or the arterial connection port. A blood circuit assembly and drain cassette may be removable from the dialysis unit, e.g., by hand and without the use of tools. A blood circuit assembly may include a single, unitary member that defines portions of a pair of blood pumps, control valves, channels to accurately position flexible tubing for an occluder, an air trap support, and/or other portions of the assembly. A blood circuit assembly engagement device may assist with retaining a blood circuit assembly on the dialysis unit, and/or with removal of the assembly. An actuator may operate a retainer element and an ejector element that interact with the assembly.

Abstract: A shortening for preparing moist, light and tender cakes is disclosed. The shortening comprises a fat or oil and an emulsifier which consists essentially of from about 10% to about 20% of propylene glycol mono-fatty acid esters and from about 3% to about 20% of hydrophilic polyglycerol ester (percentages are based on the weight in the shortening). The ratio of polyglycerol ester to propylene glycol monoester is about from about 2:1 to 7:1. This shortening system can be used in preparing baking mixes. Surprisingly, even in an add-oil preparation the cake is moist yet light and tender.