Abstract: An arrangement for recirculation of exhaust gases of a combustion engine (2) in a vehicle (1), including an exhaust line (4) to lead exhaust gases out from the combustion engine (2), and a return line (5) for recirculating part of the exhaust gases in the exhaust line (4) to the combustion engine (2). A high-temperature cooling system (11) containing a circulating coolant in the form of a liquid medium which, at an intended operating pressure in the high-temperature cooling system (11), has a boiling point of at least 150° C. An EGR cooler (10) subjects the recirculating exhaust gases in the return line (5) to a first step of cooling by the circulating high-temperature coolant. A radiator element (13) cools the high-temperature coolant by air. There is a second cooler cooled by engine coolant which cools gases in the return line. There is an optional third low-temperature cooling system and a further cooler in the third system cooling gases in the return line.

Abstract: A method for controlling combustion in a cylinder of a turbocharged engine in which intake air is reserved upstream of the cylinder. The method comprises decreasing an internal EGR rate in the cylinder during a tip-out condition if the temperature of the intake air is above a threshold, and increasing the internal EGR rate in the cylinder during a tip-out condition if the temperature of the intake air is below the threshold.

Abstract: A plasma power supply circuit includes a DC/DC converter connected to a DC power supply and outputting a DC voltage, a voltage limit circuit limiting an output voltage from the DC/DC converter to a predetermined value, a PJ capacitor connected to an output end of the DC/DC converter and charged with electric energy used to generate a plasma in a discharge space of the spark plug, and a high-voltage switch connected between the PJ capacitor and the DC/DC converter and controlled to switch ON and OFF so that a charge period of the PJ capacitor is controlled according to running conditions of the internal combustion engine. Hence, the plasma ignition device can prevent damage on an electronic component incorporated therein even at the occurrence of a short and lessen damage on the internal combustion engine caused by an erroneous plasma jet ejection, wearing of the spark plug, and power consumption.

Abstract: A device for storing energy and transforming energy, e.g., an ignition coil of an ignition system of a vehicle, includes: a magnetically active I core; a first coil element which accommodates a first winding that is connected to a supply voltage; a second coil element which has a second winding that is connected to a high-voltage terminal; a peripheral core which encloses the I core, the first winding and the second winding; a permanent magnet which is situated at one end of the I core; a first insulation situated between the permanent magnet and the peripheral core; and a second insulation situated between the other end of the I core and the peripheral core.

Abstract: The invention described and illustrated herein accomplishes multiple functions to aid archery hunters in illumination, laser aiming and video recording of hunting and target shooting experiences. The invention leverages existing site mounting locations on compound bows and offers an adjustable setting based upon the bow/site combination leveraged by the hunter. The invention is adaptable for multiple lighting solutions as well as cameras and significantly improves the shooters ability to leverage the advantage of having an illumination device by placing it close to the site verses low on the base of the bow in the stabilization mount.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for removing magnetic or magnetized contaminants from a wiresaw cutting slurry during a wiresaw cutting process. The apparatus comprises a recirculating slurry dispensing system that defines the slurry flow pathway. The recirculating dispensing slurry system comprises a magnetic separator for removing magnetic or magnetizable contaminants from the slurry, wherein the purified slurry is discharged back into recirculation within the recirculating slurry dispensing system.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous wiresaw cutting fluid composition that reduces the amount of hydrogen produced during a wiresaw cutting process. The composition is comprised of an aqueous carrier, a particulate abrasive, a thickening agent, and a hydrogen suppression agent.

Abstract: Household appliance (10, 40), in particular an oven, comprising a casing (12, 42), which defines a cavity (14, 44) having an opening (16, 46), and a door (18, 48) for opening and closing said opening (16, 46), wherein the door (18, 48) comprises a front wall (20, 50) and a frame (22, 52), wherein the frame (22, 52) comprises at least one window portion (30, 60) made of a transparent material and being visible from outside the appliance (10, 40), and in that an optical deflecting device (32, 62) is provided for projecting an image of the interior of the cavity (14, 44) on the window portion (30, 60).

Abstract: The invention relates to a suction hood (3, 4, 5), preferably vortex hood or tornado hood, a) comprising a vortex generator (33, 43, 53) for generating a vortex air stream (336, 436, 536), b) wherein the vortex air stream comprises an at least substantially circular, cyclone, vortex and/or helix like air movement, c) such that fumes or smoke can be pulled into the suction hood (3, 4, 5) by the vortex air stream, d) comprising stabilizing means (32, 433, 54) for improving the stability of the vortex air stream.

Abstract: The present invention is a thermally actuated turntable suitable for conventional and convection cooking ovens, which posses uneven temperature/cooking characteristics. By means of coupling dissimilar materials, each having a wide variance in their respective coefficients of thermal expansion, the relative linear expansion of these materials caused by the ambient heat found in the cooking chamber of an oven can be utilized in such a way as to create a thermo-linear motor and thus produce relatively small linear displacements of the actuator with relatively high force capabilities. This linear displacement can then be magnified by means of the mechanical advantage of levers to produce sufficient linear displacement of a rack and pinion gear set which is capable of producing multiple rotations of an attached platter during a typical short duration cooking cycle. This slow speed rotational motion is very advantageous for cooking short duration food items.

Abstract: A solar tracking system for controlled movement of an array of solar panels and a method for installing the system is provided. The system includes an elongate drive shaft rotatable about a central axis and mechanically coupled to an array of solar panels which are rotatable about the drive shaft. A plurality of posts support the drive shaft along the length of the drive shaft, and a plurality of couplers couple the posts to the drive shaft in a manner that facilitates adjustment of the position and orientation of the couplers relative to the posts during installation of the system, and in a manner which minimizes the contact area between the couplers and the drive shaft to reduce the torque and power requirements of the system.

Abstract: A system and method for providing real time control of a heliostat array or CPV/PV module that reduces actuation cost, the disclosure reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously removes the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large trackers, and enables a system and method to cost effectively track a small surface. In addition to lower initial capital cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass-produced, and shipped more easily. Smaller mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive cranes or installation equipment.

Abstract: A solar receiver for conversion of solar radiation to thermal energy includes an enclosure defining a cavity and having an aperture for receiving an influx of concentrated solar radiation. A heat exchanger is received within the cavity for transferring heat out of the solar receiver. The heat exchanger comprises a plurality of heat exchange cells arranged in polygonal array within the cavity. Each heat exchange cell comprises an inlet, an outlet, and a heat exchange matrix interposed within a first volume defined between a first plate and a second plate spaced apart from the first plate. The inlet and outlet are in fluid communication with the first volume and the first plate, second plate, and heat exchange matrix are monolithically bonded as a unit. The first plate receives concentrated solar radiation and the heat exchange media defines a pathway for a fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet between the first and second plates.

Abstract: A solar mirror includes an opaque reflective coating on a surface of a transparent substrate facing away from the sun and a transparent reflective coating on the opposite surface of the substrate. The transparent reflective coating increases the percent reflection of wavelengths in selected ranges, e.g. wavelengths in the infrared range to increase the total solar energy reflected by the solar mirror to increase the solar energy directed to a receiver that converts solar energy to electric and/or thermal energy.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a process for preparing of slurries containing suspended and dissolved particles and a solution as well as a slurry are provided onto a hydrocyclone equipment, disk centrifuge or nozzle centrifuge equipment. The dry matter concentration in the collected slurry is higher than the concentration of the mixture of the slurry and the solution as such. The use of a hydrocyclone stage for this specific purpose is disclosed as well.

Abstract: A treating apparatus having a source of a flowable substance, an assembly for releasing the flowable substance in a general direction relative to a target, and a propelling assembly operable to transport the flowable substance from the source to the releasing means whereby the flowable substance is propelled in the general direction relative to the target.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the use of recombinant human CC10 (rhCC10), also known as recombinant human uteroglobin, for use as a therapeutic in the treatment of nasal rhinitis, nasal sinusitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis. More particularly, the invention provides methods, including broadly the critical dosage ranges of rhCC10 and intranasal route of administration, which may be administered to safely and effectively treat the aforementioned conditions. The invention further provides a composition useful in administering rhCC10 to humans.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the inhalation delivery of aerosols containing small particles. Specifically, it relates to a method of forming an aerosol for use in inhalation therapy. In a method aspect of the present invention, a method of forming an aerosol for use in inhalation therapy is provided. The method involves the following steps: (a) heating a substrate coated with a composition comprising a drug at a rate greater than 1000° C./s, thereby forming a vapor; and, (b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming an aerosol, which is used in inhalation therapy. In another method aspect of the present invention, a method of forming an aerosol for use in inhalation therapy is provided. The method involves the following steps: (a) heating a substrate coated with a composition comprising a drug to form a vapor, wherein the coated composition is in the form of a film less than 10? thick; and, (b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming an aerosol, which is used in inhalation therapy.

Abstract: An assembly and method for producing a condensation aerosol are disclosed. The assembly includes a heat-conductive metal substrate with an oxidation resistant exterior surface and a drug composition film on the exterior surface and is for use in an aerosol device. The thickness of the film and the surface of the substrate is such that the aerosol formed by vaporizing and condensing the drug composition the aerosol contain 10% by weight or less drug-degradation products and at least 50% of the total amount of the drug composition in the film. The methods for treating the exterior surface include heat and chemical treatment and formation of a protective overcoat.

Abstract: The invention of the present application relates to an apparatus to aid in administering inhaled pharmaceutical aerosol to a patient. The apparatus is used in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device. The apparatus comprises steps on the top and bottom of the apparatus, which when used aid the patient causes mandibular advancement, and opening of the mouth, causing opening of patient's airway, resulting in improved aerosol lung deposition. The invention also relates to a method of using such apparatus in a combination with an aerosol delivery device or a system, and to the mouthpiece of said apparatus.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a protective headgear system which includes a relatively light weight, substantially rigid, headgear structure which may include an internal, adjustable headband. The system includes at least one filter which is attachable to the headgear structure to cover the structure and a filter protector mounted thereon. A fan mechanism is mounted on the headgear structure to draw air into the headgear structure through the filter means. A power supply selectively powers the fan. A facial shield is attachable to the headgear structure to cover the face of the wearer to maintain non-contaminating conditions relative to the wearer. A flexible cuff or hood is attachable to the facial shield to enclose the lower opening of the lens and provides protection for the wearer through which air can be exhausted.

Abstract: A system is provided for providing oxygen from an oxygen supply to a user. The system includes: (a) a hood adapted to fit over the user's head. The hood includes an inlet port, an outlet port, and a seal mechanism adapted to engage at least one of the user's head, neck and torso to restrict a flow of oxygen from the hood; (b) a flow control mechanism for coupling between the oxygen supply and the inlet port, and for controlling a flow of oxygen to the hood; and (c) a pressure control mechanism coupled to the outlet port, wherein the back pressure valve is adapted to regulate a pressure of the oxygen in the hood to between about 0.5 inches of water (“inH2O”) (0.00127 atm) and about 4 inH2O (0.01016 atm). Numerous other aspects are provided.

Abstract: An umbilical comprising a side-emitting optical fiber or optical fiber-bundle for providing a distributed source of light along part or the whole of the length of the umbilical.

Abstract: Methods and systems of using liquid nitrogen dioxide (N2O4) with a ventilator can generate and deliver nitric oxide to a patient by means of a ventilator.

Abstract: A nitric oxide delivery system, which includes a gas bottle having nitrogen dioxide in air, converts nitrogen dioxide to nitric oxide and employs a surface-active material, such as silica gel, coated with an aqueous solution of antioxidant, such as ascorbic acid. A nitric oxide delivery system may be used to generate therapeutic gas including nitric oxide for use in delivering the therapeutic gas to a mammal.

Abstract: A respirator or anesthesia system for respirating a patient (20) includes a gas delivery device (3); at least one gas line (4) for forming a breathing air line system, especially a breathing air circulation system; at least one EMG sensor for detecting the electromyographic muscle activity of the respiratory muscles of a patient (20) being respirated; and a control (9) for controlling and/or regulating the output of the gas delivery device (3) as a function of the detected muscle activity of the respiratory muscles. An adaptation of the part of respiration to the performance capacity of the respiratory muscles of the patient (20) being respirated is made possible without invasive measurement of the electromyographic activity of the respiratory muscles by the at least one EMG sensor being an sEMG sensor (6).

Abstract: The present invention relates to the inhalation delivery of aerosols containing small particles. Specifically, it relates to a device that forms drug containing aerosols for use in inhalation therapy. In a device aspect of the present invention, a device for delivering drug containing aerosols for inhalation therapy is provided. The device includes a housing and an airway that has a gas/vapor mixing airway. The airway further includes a subassembly, which has a metallic substrate coated on its surface with a composition comprising a drug.

Abstract: A mouth and nose mask including a main cover body with a main air vent at the center thereof, an inner cover body, and a linking member. There is a space between the main cover body and the inner cover body. The linking member links the main cover body and the inner cover body. The bottom edge of the inner cover body is designed not to touch the face when wearing. The mouth and nose mask is safe, can be used in the treatment of allergic respiratory diseases, and is effective in preventing the same.

Abstract: An air delivery system includes a controllable flow generator, a primary controller, and an auxiliary controller. The flow generator is operable to generate a supply of pressurized breathable gas to be provided to a patient for treatment. The primary controller is associated with at least one primary control feature to select at least a first aspect of operation of the flow generator. The auxiliary controller is associated with at least one auxiliary control feature to select at least a second aspect of operation of the flow generator. The second aspect selected by the auxiliary controller is different than the first aspect selected by the primary controller. The primary and auxiliary controllers may be interchangeably usable to control operation of the flow generator.

Abstract: A method of treating lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, is provided that includes delivering positive pressure support to an airway of a patient during a plurality of respiratory cycles, and automatically varying a pressure level of the positive pressure support during at least a portion of the inspiratory phase of the patient in a number of the respiratory cycles.

Abstract: A powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) includes a radial blower. The radial blower includes at least an impeller and a scroll having an upper outer surface and a lower outer surface. In one embodiment, a cross section of an air passageway of the scroll includes sides corresponding to the upper outer surface and the lower outer surface, the sides having parallel slanted segments. In another embodiment, the sides may be substantially parallel and may be curved. In yet another embodiment an upper outer surface of the scroll is concave and a lower outer surface of the scroll is convex. In that embodiment, the PAPR further includes an inlet, and the inlet is disposed at the lower outer surface.

Abstract: A filter element includes a porous non-woven web. The porous non-woven web includes a first layer with first thermoplastic elastomeric polymer fibers and first active particles disposed therein and a second layer including second thermoplastic elastomeric polymer fibers and second active particles disposed therein. The web possesses a three-dimensional deformation and the first layer is contiguous with the second layer across the deformation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vacuum demand valve 50 for use on the exhalation side of a breathing apparatus 32 for controlling the flow of exhalation gases from a patient 34 to a vacuum line 36.

Abstract: A filter element utilizes a porous shape-retaining self-supporting non-woven web. The web includes thermoplastic elastomeric polymer fibers and active particles disposed in the fibers. The web also possesses a three-dimensional deformation.

Abstract: A respiratory interface device including a fluid coupling device having a main body and an exhalation plate having a plurality of vent holes, the exhalation plate being separate from and coupled to the main body. The present invention further relates to a fluid coupling device including an exhaust portion having a plurality of vent holes having a tapered shape. A set of the vent holes has an incident angle that radiates and originates from a common point. The present invention also relates to an exhalation mechanism including a plurality of vent holes defined by a continuous straight inner wall extending from an interior surface to an exterior surface wherein an exterior circumference of the vent hole is offset with respect to an interior circumference.

Abstract: A respiratory interface device includes a mask, a connector tubing component, a headgear and a tube management device coupled to the headgear. The connector tubing component has a main tubing portion and a swivel mechanism provided at an end thereof for coupling the connector tubing component to a gas supply tube. The main tubing portion of the connector tubing component is structured to be moveably received within and held by the tube management device. The pressure applied to the bridge of the nose of the user by the mask may be selectively adjusted by adjusting the position of the main tubing portion within the tube management device. The tube management device may, for example, be threaded, employ a friction fit, employ a cam mechanism, or employ a compressible tube attachment piece, among other implementations.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and kits for enhancing breathing in patients suffering from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease are described. The methods and apparatus rely on increasing flow resistance to expiration in a manner which mimics “pursed lip” breathing which has been found to benefit patients suffering from this disease. In a first example, a device is implanted in a trachea or bronchial passage to increase flow resistance, preferably selectively increase resistance to expiration relative to inspiration. In a second embodiment, a mouthpiece is provided, again to increase resistance to expiration, preferably with a lesser increase in flow resistance to inspiration. In a third embodiment, the patient's trachea or bronchial passage is modified by the application of energy in order to partially close the lumen therethrough.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a medical device tube having scaffolding-supported inner and outer walls are provided. In particular, the medical device tube may include a plurality of struts extending from an inner wall to an outer wall of the medical device tube. In certain embodiments, each of the individual struts may connect to adjacent struts at the inner wall and the outer wall. As such, the plurality of struts may comprise a zigzag pattern circumferentially around the medical tube device. In other embodiments, the struts may extend radially from the inner wall to the outer wall of the medical tube device. Regardless, the area between the struts and the inner wall and/or the outer wall form a plurality of lumens, which may be used for suctioning, blowing, and various other applications of the medical device tube.

Abstract: A securement system secures an endotracheal tube or other medical article in position upon a patient and arrests movement of the endotracheal tube. The securement system includes a support member and a retainer. The retainer defines a channel configured to receive the endotracheal tube. A head securement member attaches the support member to the head of the patient. The securement system can include a soft gel for placement against the patient's skin and well as a track for securing the endotracheal tube at a plurality of locations relative to the support member. Advantageously, the securement system can maintain an endotracheal tube in position upon a patient and allow access to the patient's oral cavity.

Abstract: A pressurized air delivery device, system and method provide respiratory assistance to individuals, particularly infant humans. The device having nasal conduits or prongs which are in fluid communication with respective supply conduits separately supply each nasal conduit with a breathable gas such as air or oxygen. The size of the nasal conduits or prongs may be chosen according to the size of the individual's nares and the spacing between nasal conduits or prongs may be adjustable.

Abstract: An oral device for use in radiotherapy of the head and neck includes a base member and a bite member or “mouthpiece,” which is selectively positionable relative to the base member. The device provides immobilization of the tongue for accurate reproducible administration of radiation therapy. The device fits within the oral cavity of a patient and is maintained in position by a bite member that fits over the maxillary teeth of the patient. The position of the bite member relative to the base member may be adjustable to accommodate differences in mouth cavities and bite profiles. For example, the base member may include a platform or series of members configured to be removably coupled to the bite member in multiple different positions.

Abstract: Methods and tools are disclosed for inserting an implant device that treats snoring and apnea of a patient by altering the position of a soft palate. Methods and tools can make an incision in patient's soft and hard palate to create a cavity that can house the implant. The tools can have visually observable markings that can be aligned with the incision, thus controlling the depth of the cavity. A needle having an incision edge can be used to make an incision in patient's soft palate. The needle can be bent into a suitable longitudinal shape to allow easier access and visualization of the process. A blade that makes the cavity in the tissue can be housed inside a channel in the needle. The tools may have stoppers to prevent excessive extension and retraction of the blade thus preventing an excessive cavity depth. Some tools may also house the implant device, which may be implanted after the cavity is formed.

Abstract: Described herein are adhesive nasal devices. In particular, the adhesive nasal respiratory devices described herein are configured to be worn in communication with a subject's nasal cavity and may include a rim body having a passageway therethrough, an airflow resistor in communication with the passageway of the rim body, and a flexible, adhesive holdfast layer extending outward from the periphery of the rim body. The rim body region may be formed from multiple parts (e.g., a first and a second rim body region), and the airflow resistor may be secured between the parts forming the rim body. Methods of manufacturing and assembling these adhesive nasal devices are also described.

Abstract: A surgical drape having a tearable first sheet, the first sheet including at least one notch disposed at a periphery of the first sheet and an imperforate portion extending from the at least one notch to at least one fenestration, wherein tearing the first sheet via the at least one notch creates a linear tear line extending along the imperforate portion from the at least one notch to the at least one fenestration. The fenestration may be included in the first sheet. The drape may also include a second sheet, wherein the second sheet comprises the fenestration, wherein a cut extends from a periphery of the second sheet to the fenestration in the second sheet, wherein the first sheet is affixed a surface of the second sheet and extends along a length of and overlapping the cut, and wherein the notch is aligned with the cut.

Abstract: A oral device for use in radiotherapy is disclosed. The device is a two piece adjustable mouthpiece for use during radiotherapy of the head and neck. The device provides immobilization of the tongue for accurate reproducible administration of radiation therapy. The device fits within the oral cavity of a patient and is maintained in position by a bite-member that fits over the maxillary teeth of the patient. The adjustable feature of the device allows the device to fit the mouth to accommodate differences in mouth cavities and bite profile.

Abstract: A method of fabricating an anti-noise earplug having an inner tip serving as a core and an outer tip coupled to the inner tip to surround the inner tip and inserted into an ear includes the steps of: (a) shaping the inner tip; (b) fixing the inner tip to an upper mold for shaping the outer tip; (c) disposing the upper mold to face a lower mold having a cavity for shaping the outer tip; (d) injecting a resin composition for forming the outer tip into the lower mold; (e) pressing down the upper mold to the lower mold; (f) curing the resin composition to couple the outer tip to the inner tip; and (g) separating the upper mold from the lower mold and then separating the earplug, in which the outer tip is coupled to the inner tip as a body, from the lower mold. In fabricating the earplug, the inner tip and the outer tip can be molded in an in-line process, thereby improving the fabrication efficiency.

Abstract: A spinal immobilisation apparatus has a harness for immovably securing to the torso of a person and a separate head support of collarless construction for mounting about the head of a person. Releasable connection allows the head support to be adjustably secured on the harness in relation to the shoulders and back of the wearer. The harness configuration allows ready access to the wearer's chest area. Elastication allows the cheat to expand during breathing. The head support is of open-faced, open-topped structure having rigid side walls hingedly connected to a rigid rear wall.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for reducing the incidence and/or severity and/or delaying the onset of heart dysfunction/failure and improving overall survival through the use of remote ischemic per-conditioning and post-conditioning.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and systems for determining the position of a remote object such as an in vivo medical device such as capsule or probe within a medical patient. The systems and methods of the invention may also be used in other enclosed environments such as fluid handling or mechanical systems. The systems and methods of the invention use one or more external magnetic sensor arrays for sensing the magnetic field of a remote object within a target area. The position of the object is determined by applying magnetic field spatial geometry characterization point analysis to evaluate the sensed magnetic field.

Abstract: An environmentally degradable cigarette filter includes a filter element of a bloomed cellulose acetate tow and a plug wrap surrounding said filter element. A weak organic acid and a pH adjusted inorganic ester salt are encapsulated in a matrix material which is in contact with the tow. The pH adjusted inorganic ester salt has a pH less than or equal to 8. When the cigarette filter is discarded into the environment, water liberates the weak acid and the ester salt from the matrix material. The weak acid hydrolyzes the ester liberating a strong acid. The strong acid catalyzes the degradation of the cellulose acetate tow. (The weak acid also hydrolyzes the cellulose acetate tow, but after the strong acid is generated, the strong acid becomes the dominant acid catalyst for the cellulose acetate tow degradation.