Abstract: Disclosed are methods for treating hazardous materials, such as those which result from an unwanted spill or leak, which comprise one or more of the steps or effects of: neutralizing the dispersed material; solidifying the dispersed material; immobilizing the material; and/or reducing the evolution of harmful or unwanted gaseous forms from the spillage, preferably using a binding agent which comprises a polyacrylate-polyacrylamide cross-linked copolymer.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention discloses a method for liquid transfer and a liquid disinfection apparatus for cleaning of objects, such as health care objects. The disinfection apparatus includes a chamber which is arranged to receive said objects for cleaning, a spray system including nozzles for distributing liquid in the chamber, and an outlet tank connected to a sewer system. The chamber is adapted to receive a liquid volume which is being circulated by the spray system including nozzles for cleaning of objects. In at least one embodiment, the disinfection apparatus further includes a rapid transfer port which is liquid flow connected between the chamber and an outlet tank so as to constitute an immediate transfer of the first volume from the chamber to the outlet tank, essentially without any tubing arranged between the chamber and the outlet tank.

Abstract: A sterilization system for PET containers and bottles including at least one electron flow generator 1, a scan gun 2 and at least one target 4 preferably made of heavy metal, so that when a part of the electron radiation hits said target a reflected X ray radiation is generated, which contributes to the sterilization of the containers. A certain amount of liquid or gaseous oxygen which upon collision with the electron radiation is converted to ozone is also exposed to the radiation, thus further contributing to the sterilization.

Abstract: An air treatment substance delivery apparatus includes a pressurized aerosol can of air treatment substance such as a fragrance or sanitizer with a spray nozzle mounted on a conventional nozzle displacement valve, a nozzle depression mechanism actuated by a solenoid, an electric power circuit delivering power from the power source to the solenoid, the power circuit including a spray activation switch connected to air movement detection means so that activation of the air unit fan is detected by the air movement detection means which operates the spray activation switch to activate the solenoid which causes the nozzle depression mechanism to depress the spray nozzle on the can and release atomized air treatment substance into the air stream.

Abstract: An in vitro sensor for point-of-care detection of at least one analyte or reaction product includes an inert, impermeable substrate, a sensing system, and a reference system. The substrate includes a first transparent surface oppositely disposed from a second surface and first and second cavities. Each of the first and second cavities defines an opening at the second surface. The sensing system is disposed in at least a portion of the first cavity and includes an analyte-detection optode membrane, an analyte-permeable membrane, and a plurality of non-transparent microbeads associated with at least one of the analyte-detection optode membrane and the analyte-permeable membrane. The analyte-permeable membrane is layered upon the analyte-detection optode membrane and covers the opening of the first cavity. The reference system is disposed in at least a portion of the second cavity.

Abstract: Methods and systems for analyzing ratios of analytes within a flowing sample are provided. The flowing sample can be processed in real-time to determine a time interval over which a predetermined amount of a group of analytes passes by a fixed point in a flow cell. The predetermined amount can be routed to a sample container for future processing. The sample can comprise diluted blood and the analytes can comprise a component of hemoglobin, such as A1c, and the total amount of hemoglobin, of which the predetermined amount is metered.

Abstract: A structure for holding sample-containing receptacles includes a cover with holes formed therein through which the receptacles can be accessed with a substance transfer mechanism, such as a robotic pipettor. When the transfer mechanism is inserted into and then withdrawn from a receptacle, a string of viscous material may be suspended from the mechanism. A viscous string removal element adjacent each opening engages the string of viscous material and dislodges the string from the mechanism when the mechanism moves in a prescribed path with respect to the removal element.

Abstract: Systems and methods to pattern surfaces to create regions of variable adhesive force on a superhydrophobic paper surface. By taking advantage of high surface energy sticky islands on a non-sticky superhydrophobic surface, microliter water drops can be registered or confined at specific locations; selected drops can then be transferred to another patterned substrate and the drops mixed and/or allowed to react without the need for pipettes or other fluid transfer tool.

Abstract: Non-rigid tape apparatus and fabrication methods for microfluidic processing applications such as gel electrophoresis are provided, where microfluidic processing is performed on selected areas. Parts of the tape are formed by high pressure plastic film forming. Membranes and other structures are self sealing during and after penetration by pipettes and electrical probes. Rigid exoskeleton elements protect the non-rigid parts during processing and facilitate transport of the tape.

Abstract: A biological processing system includes a platform assembly for holding slides and a dispenser assembly with dispensers. The dispensers are sequentially positionable over specimen-bearing slides to enable dispensing of substances onto specimens. The dispensers include a filter device for filtering a processing substance such that a substantially precipitate-free filtrate is applied to the specimens. The dispenser includes a filter device positioned at least partially in a reservoir chamber. The filter device includes anti-clogging features to maintain desired performance.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selectively accessing a portion of a sterile cryopreserved sample are disclosed. The apparatus may include a container configured to receive the cryopreserved sample and having a first portion and a second portion, a heat sink chamber surrounding the first portion of the container, and a heat source adjacent to the second portion of the container. The chamber may be configured to maintain a non-accessed portion of the sample in a cryopreserved state. The heat source may be configured to separating an accessed portion of the sample from the non-accessed portion of the sample while maintaining the viability of the accessed portion while the non-accessed portion is maintained in the cryopreserved state.

Abstract: The present invention provides reaction cells capable of maintaining stable analytical performance by preventing bubble adhesion and reducing sample carryover even if the amount of sample liquid for a single test is further reduced in the future. The invention further provides an automatic analyzer that uses the reaction cells and a method for enhancing the hydrophilicity of the inner surfaces of the reaction cells. According to the invention, a reaction cell has a first electrode inserted thereinto and a second electrode disposed on the bottom side of the reaction cell. A voltage is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode to cause electric discharge between the electrodes. This allows for enhancing only the hydrophilicity of the bottom inner surface and the four bottom corners of the reaction cell to which large bubbles adhere easily.

Abstract: A system for analyzing, manipulating, and recording data associated with a microtiter plate is provided. The system provides a touch screen element provided proximal to the microtiter plate such that data pertaining to events and conditions observed within one or more wells of the microtiter plate may be easily and accurately recorded. Data display, storage, and manipulation features are also provided.

Abstract: The invention discloses a sample-support element for ultra-high vacuums comprising a main chamber and a supplementary chamber for the sample holder and the heating/cooling elements, which is pumped by a related pump line. This enables the reduction or total elimination of the negative effect related to the alteration of the residual atmosphere in ultra-high vacuums resulting from heating or cooling the surfaces of the sample holder.

Abstract: Disclosed are process and apparatus for vertical splitting of the oxygen supply to a post-oxidation reactor. Further disclosed are process and apparatus for supplying reaction medium to a post-oxidation reactor at a mid-level inlet. Such apparatus and process can assist in reducing oxygen pinch throughout the post-oxidation reactor.

Abstract: The efficiency of heat transfer to a furnace tube or coil in a furnace for cracking ethane, propane or naphtha feedstocks, or a mixture thereof may be improved by providing protuberances on the surface of the tube or coil having i) a maximum height from 3 to 15% of the coil outer diameter, ii) a contact surface with a coil, or a base, which area is 0.1%-10% of the coil external cross section area, and iii) a geometrical shape which has a relatively large external surface containing a relatively small volume.

Abstract: An apparatus for purifying a controlled-pressure environment in a chamber, including: a piece of lithium-aluminum alloy located in the chamber; an activation element arranged to impart energy to the piece of lithium-aluminum alloy to sublimate lithium from the piece of lithium-aluminum alloy; a feedback control system including a sensor system arranged to measure a condition within the chamber, and a controller in communication with the sensor and configured to control operation of the activation element according to an evaluation of the condition; and a collection plate located in the chamber and arranged to form a layer of the sublimated lithium on a surface of the collection plate.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments include methods of removing carbon dioxide from combustion gas from an engine of a vehicle, systems for removing carbon dioxide from combustion gas from an engine of a vehicle, vehicles, methods of managing carbon dioxide emissions from an engine of a vehicle, and computer software program products for managing carbon dioxide emissions from an engine of a vehicle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of removing carbon dioxide from a process gas, the method comprising: a) allowing an ammoniated solution to enter an absorption arrangement, said absorption arrangement comprising at least a first absorber; b) contacting the ammoniated solution with the process gas in said first absorber, the ammoniated solution capturing at least a part of the carbon dioxide of the process gas; c) allowing the ammoniated solution to exit the absorption arrangement; d) cooling the ammoniated solution, wherein at least a part of the captured carbon dioxide is precipitated as solid salt; e) allowing the cooled ammoniated solution to enter a separator, in which separator at least a part of the precipitated solids are removed from the ammoniated solution, after which the ammoniated solution is allowed to exit the separator; f) heating the ammoniated solution; and g) allowing the heated ammoniated solution to re-enter the absorption arrangement.

Abstract: A process of treating hydrogen gas liberated from the acid or alkaline dissolution of a metal is provided. The process comprises a step of passing the liberated hydrogen gas through a reactor containing an oxidizing agent for oxidation of the hydrogen gas into water, followed by a step of regenerating the oxidizing agent. Also provided is an apparatus for carrying out the process, the apparatus comprising a reactor containing the oxidizing agent, wherein the reactor is at least partially immersed in an alumina bath.

Abstract: Elemental boron with a boron content of at least 96.8% by weight, an oxygen content of at most 1.6% by weight, a nitrogen content of at most 0.2% by weight, a crystallinity of 30% by weight or less, and a particle size distribution with a d100 value of 9 ?m or less.

Abstract: Non-spherical siliceous particles having a plurality of porous branches are disclosed and claimed. The porous branches are randomly oriented and elongated, ring-like, and/or aggregated. An additive introduced during synthesis of the particles modifies pore volume and morphology. The tunability of the pore volume includes an inner diameter ranging from about 2 ? to about 50,000 ?. Synthesizing the particles includes mixing under constant or intermittent stirring in a reaction vessel an aqueous silicic acid solution with an acidic heel solution to form a mixture. The stirring may optionally be performed at a variable speed. An additive is introduced into the mixture at a controlled rate, wherein the additive imposes a pH change from a lower pH to a higher pH to the mixture to induce siliceous particle precipitation.

Abstract: A process for reducing nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to nitric oxide (NO) in a NO2-containing gaseous stream is provided. The process includes contacting the gaseous stream (12) with a catalyst system (28) comprising a catalyst selected from a platinum group metal. The contacting is done in the presence of carbon monoxide (22) and an organic compound (24), which synergistically improves NO2 reduction efficiency, particularly at low operating temperatures.

Abstract: A method of forming composite materials includes dispersing a conjugated material, a solvent for the conjugated material, and a plurality of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) or graphene including structures having an outer surface to form a dispersion. The solvent is evaporated from the dispersion to yield a CNT or graphene composite including a plurality of crystalline supramolecular structures having the conjugated material non-covalently secured to the outer surface of the CNT or the graphene including structure. The supramolecular structures have an average length which extends outward in a length direction from the outer surface of the CNT or graphene including structure, where the average length is greater than an average width of the supramolecular structures.

Abstract: The invention relates to a reactor for carrying out an exothermic reaction in the gas phase, which comprises a vessel having an outer wall (13) composed of a metallic material, wherein an inner shell (17) is accommodated in the interior of the reactor (1) and the inner shell (17) has a spacing of at least 50 mm to the inside of the outer wall (13).

Abstract: A composition comprising: a metal oxide of a first metal ions and second metal ions; an electrically conductive material; and a binder material. The second metal ions have a higher oxidation state than the first metal ions. The presence of the second metal ion increases the number of metal cation vacancies. A method of: dissolving salts of a first metal ion and a second metal ion in water to form a solution; heating the solution to a temperature of about 80-90° C.; and adding a base to the solution to precipitate nanoparticles of a metal oxide of the first metal ion and the second metal ion.

Abstract: A method for preparing treated electrolytic manganese dioxide and a battery including the treated electrolytic manganese dioxide as an electrode are provided. The method for treating the electrolytic manganese dioxide includes suspending milled electrolytic manganese dioxide in an aqueous solution heated to a temperature between ambient and boiling, and adjusting an acidity of the aqueous solution to a pH of less than 3.3. The method further includes agitating the suspended milled electrolytic manganese dioxide in the aqueous solution for a predetermined amount of time to dissolve metal-containing particulates in the milled electrolytic manganese dioxide.

Abstract: ZnO structures comprising crystalline ZnO micro or nanorods and methods for making and using these ZnO structures are provided. The side surface of the central portion of each rod may comprise planes of the form {1 0 ?1 0}, {0 1 ?1 0}, {?1 1 0 0}, {?1 0 1 0}, {0 ?1 1 0} or {1 ?1 0 0}, with central edge regions including a crystallographic plane of the form {2 ?1 ?1 0} or {?2 1 1 0}. The tip of the rod may comprise planes of the form {1 0 ?1 1} {0 1 ?1 1}, {?1 1 0 1}, {?1 0 1 1}, {0 ?1 1 1} or {1 ?1 0 1} with tip edge regions including a crystallographic plane of the form {2 ?1 ?1 2} or {?2 1 1 2}. The rods may be joined at or near their bases to form a “flower-like” morphology. In an embodiment, a synthesis mixture is prepared by dissolving a zinc salt in an alcohol solvent, followed by addition of at least two additives. The zinc salt may be zinc nitrate hexahydrate, the first additive may be benzyl alcohol and the second additive may be urea.

Abstract: A method of synthesizing carbon-magnetite nanocomposites. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of (a) dissolving a first amount of an alkali salt of lignosulfonate in water to form a first solution, (b) heating the first solution to a first temperature, (c) adding a second amount of iron sulfate (FeSO4) to the first solution to form a second solution, (d) heating the second solution at a second temperature for a first duration of time effective to form a third solution of iron lignosulfonate, (e) adding a third amount of 1N sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to the third solution of iron lignosulfonate to form a fourth solution with a first pH level, (f) heating the fourth solution at a third temperature for a second duration of time to form a first sample, and (g) subjecting the first sample to a microwave radiation for a third duration of time effective to form a second sample containing a plurality of carbon-magnetite nanocomposites.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention, a hybrid hydrogen storage system is provided. In one embodiment, the hybrid hydrogen storage system includes: a first hydrogen storage material present at a first volume percent (%) having a first gravimetric capacity and a first volumetric capacity; and a second hydrogen storage material forming an unreacted mixture with the first hydrogen storage material and present at a second volume % being 100 volume % minus the first volume %, the second storage material having a second gravimetric capacity and a second volumetric capacity, the first gravimetric capacity at the first volume % being higher or lower than the second gravimetric capacity at the second volume %, and the first volumetric capacity at the first volume % being the other of higher or lower than the second volumetric capacity at the second volume %.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a process for producing hydrogen from a hydrocarbon feed and steam, comprising: a step for producing a synthesis gas in a unit for steam reforming the hydrocarbon feed in the presence of steam, with a fuel providing the heat necessary for the reaction; a step for steam converting synthesis gas obtained in the preceding step, producing a stream of hydrogen containing methane and carbon dioxide; a step for capturing carbon dioxide present in the stream obtained from the steam conversion step in order to separate the carbon dioxide from the stream of hydrogen; a step for capturing and recycling the methane and other impurities (CO, CO2) present in the stream of hydrogen to the steam reforming step.

Abstract: Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) assemblies with optimized startup times, as well as to hydrogen-generation assemblies and/or fuel cell systems containing the same, and methods of operating the same. Startup and shutdown methods for a PSA assembly, and optionally an associated fuel processing system, are disclosed to provide for shortened startup times. The PSA assemblies may be in fluid communication with a hydrogen source that may be used or otherwise configured or controlled to purge the PSA adsorbent columns of adsorbents during startup and/or shutdown procedures, the hydrogen source additionally or alternatively may be used or otherwise configured or controlled to charge the columns with hydrogen for idling in a pressurized state. The use of this hydrogen source, together with specific startup and shutdown methodologies, provides for reducing the startup time of the PSA assembly.

Abstract: An indole-based in vivo imaging agent is provided by the present invention that binds with high affinity to PBR, has good uptake into the brain following administration, and which has good selective binding to PBR. The invention also includes a precursor compound useful in the synthesis of the in vivo imaging agent of the invention, as well as a method for synthesis of said in vivo imaging agent comprising use of said precursor compound, and a kit for carrying out said method. Also provided is a cassette for automated synthesis of the in vivo imaging agent. Further aspects of the invention include a radiopharmaceutical composition comprising the in vivo imaging agent of the invention, and methods for the use of said in vivo imaging agent.

Abstract: A composition including a radioactive fluorine-labeled amino acid compound is provided, which can be prevented from radiolysis. Disclosed is a composition which includes a solution containing a radioactive fluorine-labeled amino acid compound as an effective ingredient, in which the pH value of the solution is kept at 2.0-5.9, more preferably 2.0-4.9 in order to inhibit radiolysis. Also, it is possible to further inhibit radiolysis by adding thereto a pharmaceutical additive capable of inhibiting radiolysis, such as a sugar, a sugar alcohol and a sugar lactone, while the pH is kept at 2.0-5.9.

Abstract: The invention provides multivalent surface-crosslinked micelle (SCM) particles, crosslinked reverse micelle (CRM) particles, and methods of making and using them. The SCM particles can be used, for example, to inhibit a virus or bacteria from binding to a host cell. The inhibition can be used in therapy for the flu, cancer, or AIDS. The CRM particles can be used, for example, to prepare metal nanoparticles or metal alloy nanoparticles, or they can be used in catalytic reactions.

Abstract: The present invention concerns formulations containing one or more comb structure amphiphilic copolymers that are both rich in hydrophobic monomers and in polyalkylene glycol monomers. Cosmetic formulations. Methods of thickening.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a cosmetic composition comprising, in a physiologically acceptable aqueous medium: at least one agent for protecting keratin fibers; at least one aromatic alcohol; and at least one aromatic carboxylic acid or a salt thereof. Also disclosed herein is a method for protecting keratin fibers against the action of atmospheric agents comprising applying the composition above to fibers. Further disclosed herein is a method for the post-treatment of an oxidation dyeing or of a direct dyeing operation on keratin fibers comprising applying the composition described above to the fibers.

Abstract: A method for adding active agents to a nail varnish, in emulsion form. The method is suitable for adding active agents by minimizing the breakdown of same in the varnish, or the destabilization of the varnish. The method also enables the addition of active ingredients that were previously incompatible with the varnish medium.

Abstract: The present application relates to a polycondensate that can be obtained by reaction: of polyol containing 3 to 6 hydroxyl groups; of non-aromatic, saturated or unsaturated monocarboxylic acid; of aromatic monocarboxylic acid containing 7 to 11 carbon atoms; and of polycarboxylic acid, saturated or unsaturated, or even aromatic, linear, branched and/or cyclic, containing at least 2 carboxyl groups COOH; and/or a cyclic anhydride of such a polycarboxylic acid. The application also relates to a method of cosmetic treatment employing said composition, the polycondensate thus defined and a method of preparation of the polycondensate.

Abstract: The invention relates to formulations useful in treating hair disorders, improving the health of hair, increasing hair growth, and in increasing the niacin content of hair follicles. Nicotinic acid alkyl esters having a straight chain alkyl group of from 1 to 22 methylene units, preferably from 6 to 16 methylene units, and most preferably from 8 to 14 methyl units, may be used, alone or in combinations for treating these conditions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a personal care composition additive for use on keratin substrates in order to provide long lasting benefits to the keratin substrate such as in conditioning systems, such as 2/1 shampoo's, leave-on and rinse off conditioners, for hair and skin, or for imparting greater water resistance to such personal care compositions as sunscreens or cosmetics.

Abstract: Cosmetic products for temporary deformation of keratinic fibers, containing, in a cosmetic carrier present in the form of a dispersed system, at least one starch modified with propylene oxide and having an average molecular weight (weight average) of from 50 to 2500 kDa, the products providing a hairstyle with a strong hold and high flexibility. The starches modified with propylene oxide are based on renewable raw materials. In this way, effective styling agents for hair can be provided and the content of polymeric raw materials based on fossil fuels reduced.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to heat treated xanthan gums, which have improved solution viscosity over other xanthan gums heat-treated under the same processing conditions while maintaining the improved ease of use and the short, non-stringy gel texture of heat treated xanthan gums. Such high solution viscosity xanthan gums are suitable in a variety of applications, including cosmetic and personal care compositions.

Abstract: A pure chlorine dioxide solution includes a chlorine dioxide gas dissolved therein, a chlorite, and a pH adjuster which is an acid or a salt thereof having a buffering property whose pH is 2.5 to 6.8 as a 5% aqueous solution at 25° C.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biocompatible polymer having general formula (I) AaXxYy, wherein: A denotes a monomer; X denotes an RCOOR? group; Y denotes an O or N-sulphonate group which is fixed to A and which has either formula —ROS03R? or —RNS03R? in which R denotes an optionally branched and/or unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon chain which can contain one or more aromatic rings and R? denotes a hydrogen atom or a cation; a denotes the number of monomers; x denotes the rate of substitution of the A monomers by the X groups; and y denotes the rate of substitution of the A monomers by the Y groups. More specifically, the invention relates to the use of said biocompatible polymers for the preparation of a pharmaceutical, dermatological or cosmetic composition or a medical device, which are intended to prevent, relieve and/or treat discomfort, distress, itches, irritations and/or pain and/or to protect tissues against same.

Abstract: Tissue adhesives formed by reacting poly(hydroxylic) compounds derivatized with acetoacetate groups and/or polyamino compounds derivatized with acetoacetamide groups with an amino-functional crosslinking compound are disclosed. The use of the tissue adhesives for medical and veterinary applications such as topical wound closure; and surgical procedures, such as intestinal anastomosis, vascular anastomosis, tissue repair, and ophthalmic procedures; drug delivery; and anti-adhesive applications are described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a polymer comprising a segment of Formula (I): wherein, R is either absent or a linking group, n is an integer greater than 0; and m is an integer from 1 to 6.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods to treating inflammation related disease and disorders such as an autoimmune disease and autoimmune related uveitis by administering compositions and formulations comprising MetAP-2 inhibitors as disclosed herein. The composition comprises a formulation of a fumagillol derivative that retains anti-inflammation activity and is associated with a block copolymer comprising a hydrophilic polymer moiety and a hydrophobic polymer moiety.

Abstract: The invention relates to Salmonella typhi Ty21a comprising core-linked Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 O-specific polysaccharide (O-Ps) and DNA encoding O antigen biosynthesis, said DNA selected from the group consisting of: a) the DNA sequence set out in any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1 and 2 and species homologs thereof; b) DNA encoding Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 polypeptides encoded by any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1 and 2, and species homologs thereof; and c) DNA encoding a O antigen biosynthesis gene product that hybridizes under moderately stringent conditions to the DNA of (a) or (b); and related sequences, compositions of matter, vaccines, methods of using, and methods of making.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to compositions for wound closure. More specifically, the present invention provides human skin equivalents engineered to express exogenous polypeptides (e.g., antimicrobial polypeptides and keratinocyte growth factor 2) and compositions and methods for making human skin equivalents engineered to express exogenous polypeptides. In addition, the present invention provides methods for treatment of wounds with human skin equivalents engineered to express exogenous polypeptides.