Abstract: A controller is provided for varying gear ratios in a transmission system including at least one planetary gear train disposed within a housing. The controller includes a ratio control gear set, a ratio control pump, and a relief valve. The ratio control gear set includes a sun gear, a planet carrier, and a ring gear. The planet carrier is configured to rotatably connect to an output shaft of an engine. The ring gear is configured to mesh with a sun gear of the planetary gear train. The ratio control pump includes a body configured to rigidly connect to the housing, and a rotor rigidly coupled to the sun gear of the ratio control gear set. The rotor is configured to co-act with the body to pump fluid. The relief valve is configured to restrict fluid egress from the ratio control pump.

Abstract: Generally, example systems and methods for measuring aeration level of a liquid may involve measuring the pressure at two points in the liquid reservoir. The aeration level of the liquid in the liquid reservoir may be calculated based on the pressure differential between the two points in the liquid reservoir. Optionally, the aeration level of the liquid may be compared to a threshold value of the liquid aeration level, and a machine action may be commanded if the aeration level exceeds the threshold value. Example machine actions may include warning the operator. In addition, data relating to the level of aeration of the liquid may be stored, along with other machine parameters, and the data correlated for analysis and machine diagnostics.

Abstract: Highly durable hydrophobic, oleophobic, and anti-icing coatings and methods of their preparation and use are described herein.

Abstract: Described herein are methods for creating spill-proof or spill-resistant surfaces through the use of hydrophobic or oleophobic (H-SH) edges, borders or/and boundaries that contain the water and other liquids within inside the edges, borders and/or boundaries. Also described herein are spill-proof/spill-resistant surfaces. Liquid (e.g., water and other aqueous solutions/suspension) heights of 3-6 mm on a level planar surface can be sustained by such edges, borders and/of boundaries. The H-SH borders can be created on glass, metal, wood, plastic, and concrete surfaces.

Abstract: Described herein is a hydrophobic, nonabsorbent animal litter suitable fore use with cats and other animals. Also described are methods of preparing the litter, and a litter box for use with hydrophobic, nonabsorbent animal litter.

Abstract: A method of providing a customer with a gasoline discount including determining accumulated discount information each time: the customer performs a predefined action, customer identification information is obtained, such as by using a customer identification element, and information relating to the performed action is received. The accumulated discount information is based on the information and is stored in association with the customer identification information. When the customer purchases gasoline, the customer identification information is obtained, the accumulated discount information is obtained using the customer identification information, and the customer may receive a discount based on the accumulated discount information.

Abstract: A method of providing a customer with a gasoline discount including determining accumulated discount information each time: the customer performs a predefined action, customer identification information is obtained, such as by using a customer identification element, and information relating to the performed action is received. The accumulated discount information is based on the information and is stored in association with the customer identification information. When the customer purchases gasoline, the customer identification information is obtained, the accumulated discount information is obtained using the customer identification information, and the customer may receive a discount based on the accumulated discount information.

Abstract: A method of drying a paper web is provided. The method utilizes a dryer, such as a through-dryer, having a first dryer section and a second dryer section. Within the first dryer section, a relatively wet paper web is dried at an elevated temperature, such as between about 400° F. to about 500° F. After being dried by the first dryer section, the web is relatively dry and is further dried by the second dryer section at a reduced temperature, such as between about 300° F. to about 400° F. A variety of control techniques can also be utilized to control the temperature of each dryer section.

Abstract: A method of forming a solution of a solid includes the steps of: (1) forming a dispersion which comprises (a) a liquid, (b) the solid dispersed in powder form and (c) a polymeric binder dissolved in the liquid, and (2) mixing the dispersion with the solvent under conditions such that the powder dissolves in the solvent. If a solution prepared by this method is allowed to dry out, the polymeric binder binds the powder and thus suppresses dust formation. The method has particular application to solids which are reactive textile auxiliaries. A dispersion of a solid in powder form in an aqueous liquid contains a major proportion of a low viscosity, water-soluble cellulose ether and a minor proportion of a natural polysaccharide gum.

Abstract: Methods for inhibiting vascular stenosis in a mammal, including restenosis following surgical removal of atherosclerotic plaques. Inhibition is achieved through the administration of anti-growth factor antibodies, including anti-FGF antibodies and anti-PDGF antibodies.