Abstract: A material and method for producing mesostructured materials with multiple functionalities that are independently adjustable and collectively optimizable is provided. The method uses a series of discrete synthesis steps under otherwise mutually incompatible conditions, e.g., from acidic, alkaline, and/or non-aqueous solutions, allows different functionalities to be introduced to the materials and optimized. To illustrate the method, cubic mesoporous silica films were prepared from strongly acidic solutions that were separately functionalized under highly alkaline conditions to incorporate hydrophilic aluminosilica moieties and under non-aqueous conditions to introduce perfluorosulfonic-acid surface groups.

Abstract: A corbelled-support apparatus includes a support which has a horizontal surface and a vertical surface, a corbel which has opposed top and bottom ends, and a platform positioned concurrently on and supported concurrently by the horizontal surface of the support and the top end of the corbel. The corbel is secured to the vertical surface of the support. The platform is for receiving and supporting display items with respect to the horizontal surface of the support and the corbel.

Abstract: A material and method for producing mesostructured materials with multiple functionalities that are independently adjustable and collectively optimizable is provided. The method uses a series of discrete synthesis steps under otherwise mutually incompatible conditions, e.g., from acidic, alkaline, and/or non-aqueous solutions, allows different functionalities to be introduced to the materials and optimized. To illustrate the method, cubic mesoporous silica films were prepared from strongly acidic solutions that were separately functionalized under highly alkaline conditions to incorporate hydrophilic aluminosilica moieties and under non-aqueous conditions to introduce perfluorosulfonic-acid surface groups.

Abstract: An adapter for coupling a pair of pipe elements through an opening formed in a wall includes a flange mounted thereon. The flange is pivotable relative to the adapter, whereby the flange automatically compensates a non-uniform thickness of the opening.

Abstract: An auxiliary energy source is connected to the manually operated lift head of a vacuum lift system for connection of an accessory. Thus, electrical or compressed air energy is made conveniently available to power a load rotating accessory, a clamp, or the like, preferably by means of feeding a conduit line coaxially within the flexible tubing of the lift system. This is particularly useful to prevent interference or disarray of an auxiliary line that must be manipulated in tandem with the lift head, and is operable with rotary type lift systems that permit 360 degree rotation of the lift head.

Abstract: This invention provides improved body length adjustment value structure for a vacuum powered lifting system of the type that embodies a variable length lifting body responsive to the differential of pressure inside that body with atmospheric pressure to resolve critical manual control problems. Thus control is provided by proportional movement of a control member over a substantially linear range producing a smooth progressive movement of the lifting mechanism. This permits non-critical lowering and release of a work load object by unskilled operators. Thus, an air injection valve with an air release port, is positioned within the lifting body having an elongated slot operable over a control range proportionately change the body length by release of a progressively increasing flow of air into the body to increase air pressure and body length over the critical range of lowering and releasing the work load object in response to a corresponding substantially linear movement of the control member.

Abstract: A hydrotherapy fitting assembly is provided, featuring: an axial nozzle socket and a nozzle therein, receiving an axial flow of water and air, and projecting them in admixture from the housing as a jet stream; the nozzle comprising two pieces threadably and fixedly linked together for pivoting and rotating movement together in the socket; a cylindrical housing piece defining a central chamber; a cylindrical plug valve piece having an axial water inlet at one end an axial water outlet at the other end, threadably mounted in the control chamber, and movable axially on the threads in the central chamber of the cylindrical housing between limiting positions extending across and closing off the side water inlets, and fully exposing and opening the side water inlets, with intermediate positions partially exposing and opening the side water inlets; and leaving the air inlet exposed and open in both limiting positions of the valve; and constraining water flow therethrough first in an axial direction, then in a direct

Abstract: A housing assembly for pressurized fluids is provided, having a cover removably attached to the housing in a manner that allows jacking of the cover into and away from sealing engagement with the housing, comprising, in combination, a housing; a fluid chamber in the housing; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet in the housing in fluid flow connection with the fluid chamber; and a removable cover assembly closing off an open end of the fluid chamber and comprising a cover movable into and out from sealing engagement with the housing; a jack ring removably attached to the housing and having a central aperture; and optionally, when the vessel is pressurized, also having a peripheral portion to the housing engaging a peripheral portion of the removable cover; and means attaching the movable cover axially to the jack ring at the central aperture in a manner such that the jack ring engages the cover at a central portion adjacent the central aperture of the jack ring, and optionally also at a peripheral portion adjacent