Abstract: In various embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can include a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, wherein the shaft defines an axis, and a disposable loading unit which is assembled to the shaft in a direction which is transverse to the shaft axis. Such a connection between the disposable loading unit and the shaft can prevent, or at least inhibit, the disposable loading unit from being unintentionally displaced proximally and/or distally relative to the shaft of the surgical instrument. The surgical stapling instrument and/or disposable loading unit can further include a threaded collar and/or detent assembly configured to hold the disposable loading unit in place. In various embodiments, a disposable loading unit can include a lockout feature which can prevent, or at least inhibit, an expended disposable loading unit from being reassembled to the elongated body of the surgical instrument.

Abstract: A method of creating images, such as the face of a child, on flexible foam plastic, such as a doll's head. The method can also be used to create realistic images of other objects such as pet animals, with the head on a separate piece of foam attachable to the body in different tilted positions by means of Velcro. Existing technology is used to make the type of thermal transfer which obtains its color from deposits of colored wax. This is then brought into register with bumps and hollows on the flexible foam blank, and the blank flattened by mechanical pressure during the transferring step. After completion, the resilience of the flexible foam blank recreates a three dimensional surface; hence, the final product is more representative of the object than was the transfer from which it was made.

Abstract: Apparatus for a game somewhat similar to basketball, in which target holes are cut in a curved frontboard which encloses the three open sides of a basketball hoop. Mounting structure is described permitting the three target holes to be just below or just above the existing basketball hoop, at the option of the player. The entire apparatus is mounted on, and clamped to, an existing basketball hoop.

Abstract: A device for securing eyeglasses to the ear of the wearer, using a ring of stretched elastomer on the bow or temple piece forward of the ear and adjustable in position. A loose loop of flexible line is tied to the ring, and extends in a larger loop around the ear at its base, with a sheath for padding where it touches the ear. The wearer adjusts the ring so as to create a slight force in the larger loop, which force prevents the bow from lifting off the top of the ear, which in turn prevents the eyeglasses from slipping forward down the slope of the nose.