Abstract: A new cultivar of Cuphea named ‘FLAMENCO SAMBA’ that is characterized by dense upright habit, dark yellow-green foliage, and large dark red flowers that bloom continuously throughout spring, summer and fall. In combination these traits set ‘FLAMENCO SAMBA’ apart from all other existing varieties of Cuphea known to the inventor.

Abstract: An asexually reproduced variety of perennial zoysiagrass with a unique combination of morphological characters including medium leaf blade width and good persistence under low maintenance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nectarine tree and more particularly to a new and distinct variety broadly characterized by a medium size, vigorous, half-hardy, self-fertile, productive and regular bearing tree that requires only 450 chilling hours. The fruit matures under the ecological conditions described in late May, with first picking on May 24, 2005. The fruit is uniformly medium in size, excellent in flavor, globose in shape, clingstone in type, firm in texture, white in flesh color, and mostly red in skin color. The variety was developed as a first generation cross using an unnamed white flesh peach as the selected seed parent and ‘Rose Bright’ (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 15,845) as the selected pollen parent.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of interspecific tree. The following features of the tree and its fruit are characterized with the tree budded on ‘Nemaguard’ Rootstock (non-patented), grown on Handford sandy loam soil with Storie Index rating 95, in USDA Hardiness Zone 9, near Modesto, Calif., with standard commercial fruit growing practices, such as pruning, thinning, spraying, irrigation and fertilization. Its novelty consist of the following combination of desirable features: 1. Regular and productive bearer of fruit. 2. Fruit with very good flavor and eating quality. 3. Fruit with an attractive orange red skin blush. 4. Having firmer flesh than most commercial apricots. 5. Fruit holding firm on the tree 8 to 10 days after maturity (shipping ripe). 6. Relatively uniform ripening of fruit throughout the tree.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of interspecific tree. The following features of the tree and its fruit are characterized with the tree budded on ‘Nemaguard’ Rootstock (non-patented), grown on Hanford sandy loam soil with Storie Index rating 95, in USDA Hardiness Zone 9, near Modesto, Calif., with standard commercial fruit growing practices, such as pruning, thinning, spraying, irrigation and fertilization. Its novelty consist of the following combination of desirable features: 1. Regular and productive bearer of medium size fruit. 2. Vigorous, semi-spreading tree growth. 3. Fruit having very good flavor and eating quality. 4. Fruit with white flesh. 5. Fruit with an attractive reddish pink blush.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of interspecific tree. The following features of the tree and its fruit are characterized with the tree budded on ‘Citation’ Rootstock (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 5,112), grown on Handford sandy loam soil with Storie Index rating 95, in USDA Hardiness Zone 9, near Modesto, Calif., with standard commercial fruit growing practices, such as pruning, thinning, spraying, irrigation and fertilization. Its novelty consist of the following combination of desirable features: 1. Heavy and regular production of fruit. 2. Fruit with excellent flavor and eating quality. 3. Fruit holding firm on the tree 3 weeks after maturity (shipping ripe). 4. Relatively uniform size fruit throughout the tree. 5. Fruit with good handling and storage quality. 6. Fruit with a good balance between acid and sugar with an average Brix of 16.3°.

Abstract: The new and distinctive cultivar of Brunnera named ‘Looking Glass’ with light blue flowers in the spring and characterized by an intense silver coating on top of the leaves, suitable for specimen or mass landscape usage, or potted culture.

Abstract: A new Pentas plant particularly distinguished by lavender flowers, a large flower cluster size, upright form, and a compact and branching growth habit is disclosed.

Abstract: A new New Guinea Impatiens plant particularly distinguished by large, round, flat, pink to lavender-pink flowers, early flowering, uniform, medium green foliage, and a medium size plant habit that is round and bushy, is disclosed.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of interspecific tree. The following features of the tree and its fruit are characterized with the tree budded on ‘Nemaguard’ Rootstock (non-patented), grown on Handford sandy loam soil with Storie Index rating 95, in USDA Hardiness Zone 9, near Modesto, Calif., with standard commercial fruit growing practices, such as pruning, thinning, spraying, irrigation and fertilization. Its novelty consist of the following combination of desirable features: 1. Regular and heavy production of medium size fruit. 2. Fruit with an attractive red skin color. 3. The tree with a vigorous, upright growth habit. 4. Fruit with very good flavor and eating quality. 5. Fruit with a good balance between acid and sugar with an average Brix of 17.6°. 6. Fruit with good shipping and storage trials.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Hydrangea plant named ‘RIE 12’ that is characterized by broad upright habit, large dark grey-green leaves, flowers that range in color from yellow-green to light and dark pink, and unique inflorescence development. In combination these traits set ‘RIE 12’ apart from all other existing varieties of Hydrangea known to the inventor.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Impatiens plant named ‘Balfafbricol’ characterized by its bright coral-colored flowers, medium green-colored foliage, and vigorous, trailing growth habit.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Geranium plant named ‘Balshorozle’ characterized by its semi-double pink-colored flowers with dark pink-colored spots, dark green-colored foliage, and moderately vigorous, upright growth habit.

Abstract: A new and distinct pistachio tree named ‘PETE I’, characterized by a very white shell nut with a 90% or higher split ratio and a large nut size (18 to 20 nuts per ounce), nut meat color brilliant purple on the exterior with a dark green interior, a very high resistance to Botryosphaeria panicle and shoot blight (Botryosphaeria dothidea) fungus, large, dark green leaves and an early bloom.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Caryopteris×clandonensis plant is provided that is a seedling formed following the induced mutation of the ‘Heavenly Blue’ cultivar (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 1,091). Gamma radiation was utilized to create the mutation. The new cultivar can be readily distinguished from its parent by a more upright and more uniform growth habit, darker green foliage, more intense violet-blue flowers, and shorter internodes.

Abstract: A new and distinct Chrysanthemum plant cultivar is disclosed, characterized by large daisy type inflorescences, consistent flowering response to short days, blooming consistently after 50 to 55 days of short day length, bi color orange and yellow ray florets, moderate to compact growth habit and a postharvest longevity of an average of 35 days.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Impatiens plant named ‘Balcelbrisal’ characterized by its bright salmon-colored flowers, medium green-colored foliage, and vigorous, upright mounded growth habit.

Abstract: A protective garment comprises an outer shell, which provides abrasion resistance and puncture resistance, a thermal liner, and a liner including a moisture barrier. Each liner being adapted to be separately and detachably attached to and within the outer shell. The garment is adapted to be selectively configured with neither said liner so attached or with the thermal liner so attached, for a firefighter fighting a wildland fire, with both said liners so attached, for a firefighter fighting a structural fire, or with the liner including the moisture barrier so attached, for a firefighter engaging in a technical rescue.

Abstract: Oxo anions (both singly and multiply charged), such as phosphates, polyphosphates, and phosphate esters, serve as additives, and in the case of cationic dyes, may serve as replacement counter-ions, for use in thermal ink-jet inks to reduce kogation significantly. The addition of such additive essentially eliminates kogation for the life of ink pens. Further, such additives will prevent kogation for inks containing dyes with negatively-charged water-solubilizing groups, such as sulfonate and carboxylate.

Abstract: A clutch device for a magnetic recording/reproducing apparatus for transmitting power for a tape conveying regardless of the quantity of tape wound around a reel, including a rotating central shaft installed on a main chassis, a drive pulley connected to the rotating central shaft, and having a cylindrical pulley holder portion, said drive pulley being rotated by receiving power from a driving source, an up/down gear having a cylindrical gear holder unit with the outer diameter thereof being smaller than the inner diameter of the pulley holder portion and ascendable/descendable along the rotatable central shaft, and a clutch spring placed between the inner surface of the pulley holder portion and the outer surface of the gear holder unit for selectively transmitting power with a certain torque from the driving pulley to the up/down gear in accordance with the rotational direction of the driving pulley.

Abstract: An output light from an a light source lamp unit 8 in a projection-type display apparatus projector illuminates liquid-crystal light valves 925R, 925G and 925B for three colors via an integrator optical system 923. A superimposing lens 930 that is a component of the integrator optical system 923 as a uniform illumination optical system is arranged such that the mounting position of the superimposing lens 930 is fine-adjustable in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis 1a. By fine-adjusting the mounting position of the superimposing lens 930, the position of an illumination area B is adjusted such that the illumination area includes the image forming area A of the liquid-crystal light valve. It is not necessary to assure a wide margin around the image forming area A to cover the offset of the position of the illumination area B. As a result, the utilization of illumination light is heightened and a bright projected image results.

Abstract: A battery strength indicating and switch means on a battery which is coupled across the terminals of the battery and which is provided with an indicating means to indicate the strength of the battery and in addition, the battery strength indicating means is also provided with an in-line switch which can easily be depressed to complete the circuit so as to place the indicator means across the terminals of the cell and display the charge of the battery.

Abstract: A self-powered centrifugal separator, for separating particulate contaminants from a liquid lubricant of an automobile engine, includes a rotor container rotatable about an axle to which it is journalled by bushes. When the engine is running, a film of pressurized liquid between the bushes and axle lubricates them and provides radial stiffness, but when the engine stops and liquid supply ceases, radial stiffness is reduced and the partially emptying container may vibrate and create wind-down noise. At least one bush, which normally provides a horizontal thrust bearing to support the weight of the container at low speed, has, with the axle portion it surrounds, a region tapering in diameter to center the container with respect to the axle and provide both radial and axial support.

Abstract: Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide of extreme importance as a catalyst, reductan, and reactant. It can be depleted intra-cellularly either by forming a direct complex with an electrophilic agent (accomplished investigationally by agents such as bromobenzene or diethyl maleate), by way of inhibition of synthesis, or by subjecting cells to oxidant stress. Most cells, except for epithelia cells, do not have a direct transport capacity for intact GSH. Non-epithelial cells must either transport precursor substrates for GSH synthesis or salvage amino acids from circulating GSH for reuse in intracellular resynthesis. Dietary cysteine is a rate limiting substrate for the synthesis of glutathione and also inhibits GSH efflux. Although GSH is synthesized from precursors in virtually all cells, the liver is the main source of plasma GSH. Protection and support of liver function is paramount to elevating GSH levels.

Abstract: The present invention relates to calcipotriol hydrate—a new crystalline form of calcipotriol—with superior technical properties and with superior stability.

Abstract: (20S) esters of camptothecin analogs are provided. The compounds are (20S) esters of an oxyalkanoic acid and camptothecin, which is are optionally substituted at the 7, 9, 10, 11, and 12 positions of the camptothecin ring. The compounds are useful for treating cancer.

Abstract: Estrogen receptor-modulating pyrazole compounds are described in addition to methods and compositions for treating or preventing estrogen receptor-mediated disorders. The compounds described have been found to have unexpected and surprising activity in modulating estrogen receptor activity. Thus, the compounds of the present invention have utility in preventing or treating estrogen receptor-mediated disorders such as osteoporosis, breast and endometrial cancers, atherosclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract: An ambidextrous protective hand covering monolithically formed from a heat/cold resistant flexible silicone material, the opposing interior and exterior surfaces of which each include a plurality of integrally-formed raised nodules that are positionally off-set relative to one another with non-aligning transverse axes. The positionally off-set exterior and interior nodules act to oppose thermal conductivity and provide an effective thermal barrier so as to protect the hand and wrist during handling of articles of differing or uncomfortable temperatures. Optionally, the formulation of the heat/cold resistant material may be chemically enhanced to provide a thermal luminescent change in color of the hand protective covering upon detection of excessive hot/cold temperatures.

Abstract: A protective garment having an expandable material incorporated therein is provided. The expandable material may be formed of a nonwoven fabric having a first fabric surface and a second fabric surface which is opposite the first fabric surface. A section of the fabric defines at least one region gathered into a plurality of successive pleats. Each pleat is made of an overlap in the fabric such that a portion of the first fabric surface is disposed adjacent to another portion of the first fabric surface. A secondary panel for straddling a pleat may be provided. The secondary panel may be attached to the fabric by attachment points that are adapted to retain the pleat in a folded state until application of a tensile force directed along the fabric length causes the secondary panel to separate which would enable the pleat to unfold.

Abstract: A hand glove for the participant of an active sport in which at least one of the participants fingers maybe subjected to hyper-extension from contact received from participating in that sport. The glove has respectively oppositely disposed palm and dorsal faces, a plurality of individual finger elements and an elongate strip of material having at least elastically stretchable portions spaced apart from one another longitudinally along the strip and on the palm face side of the glove for each one of selected finger elements of the glove. Each strip is anchored at one end thereof proximate the tip of the glove finger element associated therewith and at the other end proximate the palm portion of the glove. Each strip being elastically stretchable is tensioned causing the finger element associated therewith to curl in a direction of the fingers for gripping an article.

Abstract: Helmet attachment apparatus and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for attaching a device to a helmet includes a first shell member coupled to a second shell member by at least one expandable member. The first and second shell members are adapted to approximately conform to first and second surface portions the helmet. When the first and second shell members are engaged with first and second engagement portions of the helmet, the expandable member is tensioned to secure the first and second shell members to the helmet. At least one of the first and second shell members includes a mount adapted to be attached to the device.

Abstract: A sweatband designed to be worn on a user for usage in a variety of sporting activities. The sweatband comprises inserts for the purpose of protecting the user, which may be permanently placed or removable. In the preferred mode, the inserts are polymeric and function to absorb and dissipate impact forces with which the user comes in contact. Importantly, the inserts may be strategically placed within the sweatband, such as in the areas most vulnerable to concussion or injury upon impact. In an alternate embodiment, the polymeric inserts may be removed from the sweatband. In total, the invention provides a novel, lightweight means to protect the athlete, while effectively functioning to absorb perspiration.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing unit for a toilet bowl comprises a first container containing a first, liquid formulation, a second container containing a second formulation, which may be a solid tablet. The liquid from container flows onto a delivery surface from where it is washed into the toilet bowl by the flush water. Some flush water also washes over the second formulation to take components into solution and deliver them into the toilet bowl through aperture. The constituents of the two formulations are thus kept separate until they enter the toilet bowl. The second formulation may also be a liquid.

Abstract: The inflatable basin (10) comprised of a bottom wall (12) and upwardly extending side walls (14), which extend around the perimeter of the bottom wall (12). The side walls (14), in cooperation with the bottom wall (12), define a water-tight cavity suitably dimensioned for receiving the head of a patient. The side walls (14) are composed of a plurality of inflatable tubular members (14A and 14B) that include an opening (16) so that the head of the patient may be placed within the basin (10) when the patient is in a prone position. The basin is provided within a support structure (32) secured to the bottom wall (12), and a resealable valve (30) disposed in a drain outlet (28) in fluid communication with the interior cavity of the basin (10).

Abstract: A rocking machine automatically imparts a continuous, rocking motion to an occupant recumbent on a hammock. One end of the rocking machine is attached to a fixed location. The other end of the rocking machine is attached to a conventional hammock, which is attached to a second fixed location. The rocking machine has a container that houses a periodically reversing geared motor. Operation of the motor is controlled by an electrical circuit having a shaft attached to one end of a torsional spring. The other end of the torsional spring is connected to the hammock. A pressure sensitive switch becomes actuated and moves to a closed position, enabling supply of power to the geared motor that initiates a continuous rocking motion, when the hammock becomes occupied. The electrical circuit provides periodically reversing oscillations while monitoring current to the motor, and decreases the period between oscillations until it matches the natural period of oscillation of the spring-occupant weight system.

Abstract: An electromotive bed, having a bed body, the bed including a mattress having a pair of rectangular through holes extending therethrough in middle upper portion of the mattress and disposed in the direction of the width of the mattress; a respective supporting block mounted rotatably to move between a position in which the block protrudes upward through each respective through hole and a position in which the block does not protrude through the through hole, the block comprising at least two pin receiving holes therein, and a shaft pin insertable in the holes to provide a pivot mounting about which block rotates, the block also having a slit extending into the block; and a deflector arm having a deflector rod that contacts the slit, wherein the deflector arm is adapted to be driven by a load transfer device in order to pivot the block between the first and second positions; wherein the mattress also comprises an additional hole, and wherein the bed also includes a defecation device below the additional hole, t

Abstract: A rocking assembly for a bed has a mattress frame, a base frame and a rocking driver. The base frame supports the mattress frame. The rocking driver is mounted on the base frame and has a motor, a flywheel and a connecting rod. The flywheel is rotated by the motor. The connecting rod is connected eccentrically to the flywheel and pivotally to the mattress frame. When the motor turns, the connecting rod rocks the mattress frame so a person lying on the bed rocks from side to side and pressure on individual parts of the person's body is alleviated so blood can circulate to the areas and bedsores will not develop.

Abstract: A dynamic surgical table system includes any one or combination of a head support system, support systems for each arm, a torso support system, and a leg support system mounted to a frame system to support a patient during surgery. Any one or combination of the support systems is movable relative to the other and to the frame system to facilitate patient repositioning during surgery. Such repositioning may be desirable, for example, to create flexion, extension or rotation of the spine to facilitate access to and surgical treatment of one or more vertebral bodies, disc spaces between vertebral bodies, or other anatomical structures adjacent the spine of the patient. Furthermore, individual support members of any one of the support systems can articulate to conform to the patient anatomy and facilitate repositioning of the particular portion of the patient's body being support thereon while minimizing stress on the patient.

Abstract: An incline sleeper for an infant has a base and a resilient insert adapted to fit in the base within a peripheral lip. The resilient insert and the base cooperate to support a top surface of the resilient insert at an angle with respect to a lower surface of the base. The top surface of the resilient insert includes an infant-receiving depression that is adapted to receive and support the infant in a supine and angled position.

Abstract: An assist device to help a user move from a sitting or reclined position to an upright position, and vice versa, with a functional tray. The assist device includes a base, a receiver, a handle, and a tray. The base may be positioned between a mattress and a box spring, or a couch frame and a couch cushion, or the like. The handle includes various gripping sections. The handle pivotably couples to the receiver and the tray rotatably couples to the handle. The tray moves from a closed position to an open position, or a usable position, to allow the user to place objects thereon, or to use the tray for any other purpose.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a fluid pressurizable multiple chamber mattress wherein each chamber is capable of operably receiving and releasing a fluid, comprising a first covering sheet, at least two fabric layers positioned upon the inner surface of the first covering sheet, the inner surfaces of the fabric layers being linked via a plurality of threads, a second covering sheet, a first dielectric weld forming a first and a second fluid pressurizable chamber defined between the outer surfaces of the fabric layers and the inner surfaces of the first and second covering sheets, a second dielectric weld, forming a third fluid pressurizable chamber defined between the inner surfaces of the first and second covering sheets and the inner surfaces of the fabric layers; and at least one fluid valve carried by at least one covering sheet for permitting the pressurization and depressurization of at least one fluid pressurizable chamber.

Abstract: An inflatable air cushion has at least two sets of tension members therein. Each set of tension members includes multiple and parallel tension members. The tensile directions generated by the two sets of tension members are perpendicular. One of the tension members can be a strap member, and the other tension member can be a sheet member.

Abstract: The apparatus for removing particles in accordance with the present invention is for a processing device including a vacuum container unit having a plurality of chambers in which a predetermined process is performed on a wafer carried in by a conveyer unit in atmosphere. The apparatus comprises a charge neutralizing means for neutralizing charges generated on a surface of the wafer, the charge neutralizing means being mounted in a waiting-accommodation unit which constitutes a part of the conveyer unit, and a charging means for adsorbing particles in the vacuum container unit by electrostatic force, the charging means being mounted in the vacuum container unit.

Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning the rim of a wheel. The apparatus comprises a housing journaling a driveshaft, driven by an electric motor and mounting a pair of wire brushes configured to contact the wheel rim. Guides on the housing cause the axis of the drive shaft to be parallel to the wheel axis. In use, the housing pivots to follow the wheel rim while the electric motor remains in the same orientation. A brake mechanism between the housing and electric motor prevents rotation of the housing when the guides are not engaged with the wheel rim.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush comprises a body portion and a head including a motor, a moving portion, a handle, and a gear arrangement between the moving portion and the motor. The moving portion rotates, oscillates and/or reciprocates about an axis normal to a longitudinal axis of the head. The moving portion can include stiff bristles and massaging tips and the static portion can include soft bristles and massaging tips. The body portion houses the motor. A switch is operatively connected to the motor to provide momentary or continuous operation of the toothbrush. In one embodiment the gear arrangement includes a shaft, a worm gear and a pair of step gears. In another embodiment the gear arrangement includes a plurality of gears and at least one swivel arm for drive the moving portion in a rotating, oscillating or reciprocating manner.

Abstract: A lint roll apparatus includes an orienting mechanism for orienting the free edge of the outermost sheet of a adhesive roll with a predetermined point on a roll support. Orientation is implemented by cooperating stop members on the roll and the roll support, by a slidable member on the roll support moveable into and out of engagement with a notch in the roll or a roll core, or a trigger activated moveable pin which is engagable with a stop member carried on the roll or roll support. A motor driven spindle rotates a cylinder on which the roll is mounted.

Abstract: A cleaning implement includes a fabric layer made from a splittable conjugate fiber, a sponge wiper layer made of melamine foam, and a reinforcing layer made of a non-melamine foam material and disposed between the fabric and sponge layers. The non-melamine foam material has higher water-absorbing and elastic properties than the melamine foam.

Abstract: This new and improved cone hair care brush is provided which enables multiple curls of varying diameters within each lock of hair. Also, the cone hairbrush allows for a root lifter to achieve more body to the overall look of the hair by applying the smallest end of the cone brushhead invention to the scalp while lifting and blow drying the hair simultaneously. The cone brushhead may include ventilation holes that would allow the hair to blow dry much faster.

Abstract: A shoe cleaning apparatus for use with a vehicle includes a brush assembly having at least one brush unit thereon. A mounting arm includes a first end extending from the brush assembly and a second end selectively coupled to a hitch receiver of the vehicle in an installed position. The mounting arm further includes a hinge for moving the brush assembly between an operating position and a storage position. The mounting arm includes an upper portion coupled to the hitch receiver and a lower portion laterally offset from the upper portion toward a ground surface. The lower portion is coupled to the brush assembly. The hinge is disposed on the lower portion of the mounting arm. A stepped portion extends perpendicularly between the upper portion and the lower portion. The brush assembly rotates from a substantially parallel relationship with the ground surface in the operating position to an upright position substantially perpendicular to the ground surface in the storage position.

Abstract: A compact disposable toothbrush has a flat, elongate bristle-receiving body having bristles extending downward therefrom in the manner of a traditional toothbrush. A finger clip formed by elongate curved elastic portions extends upward along the length of the bristle receiving body. The elastic action of the curved portions secures mounting to varying sizes of finger. The finger clip has side openings in each and inner guide ridges to avoid lateral movement and rotation on the finger. A bristle cover snaps over bristle-receiving body for removal and replacement and seals against the body and the lower wall of the finger. The toothbrush and cover may be supplied as a kit with a single portion of toothpaste provided in the cover as snapped closed over the bristle portion of the toothbrush, the bristles extending into the toothpaste. The kit is supplied in a wrapper for sanitary distribution.