Abstract: The invention induces an increase in the resistance of potato plants, without apparent toxicity for the plant. Preliminary experiments indicate that the increase in metabolism of plants efficiently fosters (above 60%) the reduction of the development of the pathogenic phytobacteria, Erwinia carotovora, one of the principal agents in causing diseases in potatoes.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for delaying a plant development process comprising exposing a plant or plant part to one or more bacteria or enzymes. In specific embodiments, the one or more bacteria are selected from the group consisting of Rhodococcus spp., Pseudomonas chloroaphis, Brevibacterium ketoglutamicum, and a mixture comprising any combination of these bacteria. Apparatuses for delaying a plant development process comprising a catalyst that comprises one or more of the above bacteria.

Abstract: A rocker chiller includes a tank having a bottom wall and a dasher assembly, which includes an axle extending in a lengthwise direction and a dasher blade extending adjacent the bottom wall. The dasher blade is mechanically coupled to the axle by a plurality of support arms extending in a radial direction between the axle and the dasher blade. A carcass deflector is provided, which is attached to the axle so that each back-and-forth oscillation of the axle and dasher blade during operation of the rocker chiller causes a back-and-forth oscillation of the carcass deflector in unison with the back-and-forth oscillation of the axle and dasher blade. The carcass deflector is spaced longitudinally along a longitudinal axis of the axle and has a carcass deflection region therein that extends above a top surface of the axle and in a plane that is generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the axle.

Abstract: An apparatus for marinating foods; the flavor dispensing system is used to improve the ease, convenience and reliability of dispensing flavorings into comestibles. The device is a flexible container with marinade or other fluid stored within the flexible container, and a dispensing needle suitable for injection dispensing. The container assembly serves to safely store the dispensing needle within the confines of the flexible container during non-use periods. The flexible container is able to be sealed to promote content longevity in store-shelf life.

Abstract: Disclosed is an oyster shucking device, of which both manual and automated embodiments are envisioned. An exemplary embodiment is constructed of aluminum and/or stainless steel and may be mounted on a wooden, steel or plastic base. A double roller bearing arrangement housed in a bearing box above a spike and positioning cylinder generates an efficient transfer of an actuation force to an oyster hinge while providing a user with the ability to adjust the amount of force applied to the oyster. Additionally, the spike and positioning cylinder arrangement provides for consistent and stable alignment of the spike all the way through a stroke. Further, the vertical travel of the spike as guided by the positioning cylinder provides for a wide range of travel by the spike to accommodate various oyster sizes without having to reconfigure or adjust the setup of the device.

Abstract: Process that includes: providing dilute aqueous liquid acid whey protein composition containing acid whey proteins; filtering dilute aqueous liquid acid whey protein composition, forming concentrated aqueous liquid acid whey protein composition containing acid whey proteins; combining together concentrated aqueous liquid acid whey protein composition and edible caustic composition in suitable proportions to result in substantially neutral pH; denaturing acid whey proteins at elevated temperature, forming concentrated aqueous liquid denatured acid whey protein composition; providing milk composition containing butterfat and substantial concentrations of native casein and whey proteins; combining together milk composition and concentrated aqueous liquid denatured acid whey protein composition, forming dairy mix containing butterfat and protein composition including native casein and whey proteins and denatured acid whey proteins; inoculating dairy mix with lactic acid-producing bacteria; culturing lactic acid-p

Abstract: A high-amplitude corrugated food product and method of making same. The corrugated food product comprises a corrugated surface on opposing surfaces, each surface having a plurality of peaks with substantially equal amplitude values of at least about 2.54 mm. The corrugated food product further comprises a high area moment of inertia of between about 20×10?8 m3 to about 160×10?8 m3 with a dehydration factor of less than about 1.7, which provides for less breakage and more texture. The corrugated food product has a 90°-to-0° hardness ratio of at least about 2.78 and a 90°-to-0° and a crispiness ratio of at least about 3.14.

Abstract: A device useful for slowly heating food and a method of slowly heating food to defrost, warm and/or cook using a temperature controlled circulating liquid are described. Embodiments of the device are particularly useful for the sous vide method of cooking that uses relatively low temperatures and long cooking times. The active components including a pump and heater are placed in a self-contained base unit. When the base unit and the liquid-containing vessel or carafe are engaged, the liquid in the carafe is actively circulated by the pump in the base unit to maintain a homogenous temperature. The liquid is heated as required as it flows through the base unit.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sesame-containing acidic emulsified liquid seasoning capable of sufficiently giving a roasted sesame flavor even after storage. The sesame-containing acidic emulsified liquid seasoning according to the present invention comprises ground roasted sesame, gum substance, egg yolk and edible oil and has a viscosity of 0.1 to 5 Pa·s and a total light transmittance, which is determined by measuring the turbidity of the sesame-containing acidic emulsified liquid seasoning using integrating sphere-type electrophotometry, of 1.5 to 10%.

Abstract: A method of reducing the accumulation of fat mass in a neonatal human infant at risk thereof which method comprises administering to the infant during at least a part of the neonatal period a therapeutic amount of a nutritional composition comprising proteins in an amount such that the composition contains more than 2.4 g of protein per 100 kcal. As weight gain during the first week of life has been associated with overweight in adulthood, this may offer a method of reducing the risk of developing obesity in later life. Also claimed is the administration of DHA to the mother during gestation period.

Abstract: Food additives may be actively released to deliver aromatic compounds to consumers during food or drink consumption. The food additives may be contained within an encapsulation layer. The encapsulation layer may be configured to release the food additives in response to being exposed to energy provided by an activation source proximate to the food additives. The activation source may be incorporated into, or connected with, an eating utensil or an oral implant. The activation source can be manually controlled by a consumer, can be controlled based on conditions near the food additives, or can be programmed with a release schedule that defines how and when food additives are to be released.

Abstract: This invention provides a preparation of a powdered plant sterol ester which comprises a plant sterol ester, an octenyl succinate-modified starch and an indigestible dextrin. The preparation can be prepared by a method comprising the steps of emulsifying a plant sterol ester in an aqueous solution containing an octenyl succinate-modified starch and an indigestible dextrin to form an emulsion and then powdering the resulting emulsion. The invention permits the application of plant sterol esters to wide variety of foods and drinks. In addition, the invention permits the effective control of an increase of the serum-cholesterol content accompanied by the intake of meals.

Abstract: A method for the separation of fat from meat. The method includes transferring a mixture through a conduit, wherein the mixture comprises lean particles with frozen water, fat particles, and a fluid, allowing the frozen water in the lean particles to thaw as the mixture travels through the conduit, and increases a density of the lean particles, accumulating the lean particles with non-frozen water at a first elevation in the conduit, and accumulating fat particles at a second elevation in the conduit, wherein the first elevation is lower than the second elevation.

Abstract: An edible product including surimi, fish or fish portions, in various pasta-like shapes. The edible product has a high satiety index relative to unprocessed cooked fish and also provides a low glycemic index when compared to conventional pasta. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing the edible product in various pasta-like shapes. The product may include between 1%-25% protein, between 1%-20% fat, and a ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 of at least 5:1.

Abstract: A machine for processing and keeping ice cream, slush drinks and similar products, comprises a display counter comprising, a plurality of visible mixing and freezing cylinders for processing basic products and keeping ice cream, and a cooling circuit which allows the temperature of the basic products and of the ice cream to be adjusted; the cooling circuit is equipped with a first refrigerating circuit and a second heating circuit having respective offtake branches dedicated to each of the mixing and freezing cylinders and designed to maintain the temperature for processing the basic product at the same temperature for keeping the ice cream.

Abstract: A method of enrobing a product portion in polymer strands includes mounting at least one product portion on a holding device and passing the at least one product portion through a polymer enrobing zone. The polymer enrobing zone can include a flow of polymeric fibers produced by a polymer spray head. The polymer fibers can wraparound the at least one product portion to produce an enrobed product portion. The holding device can hold the at least one product portion by passing at least partially through the body of the product portion. At least a portion of the holding device is removed from the enrobed product portion. In some cases, the at least one product portion includes smokeless tobacco.

Abstract: An apparatus for inserting or otherwise introducing objects such as fluid-containing capsules into filter rod material during filter rod manufacture comprises an object store and an object transfer mechanism having one or more reciprocating transfer units configured to receive objects from the object store and to output objects in ordered sequence.

Abstract: The invention relates to a filter for application in a cigarette tube. The invention also relates to an assembly of a cigarette tube and at least one filter according to the invention received in the cigarette tube. The invention further relates to a cigarette, in particular a “joint”, based on such an assembly. The invention also relates to a blank for the purpose of manufacturing a filter according to the invention. The invention moreover relates to a method for manufacturing a filter according to the invention.

Abstract: An electronic cigarette includes a storage tank filled with extractant and an atomization device. The electronic cigarette further comprises a device for heating tobacco, which includes a heating mechanism and a heated chamber for loading cigarette or tobacco. The heating mechanism comprises a heating element and a heater circuit for controlling the heating element to be heated to a set temperature range. An inlet of the heated chamber is connected to an outlet of the atomization device, and its outlet is connected with an opening for a suction nozzle. When the electronic cigarette is working, the extractant is atomized by the atomization device and then guided into the heated chamber. The heat produced by the heating element is applied to the cigarette or tobacco in the heated chamber to generate nicotine. The nicotine and atomized extractant are mixed together and then sucked out through the opening for the suction nozzle.

Abstract: The present application provides an electrode assembly including an atomizer outer electrode, an atomizer inner electrode, a battery rod outer electrode and a battery rod inner electrode assembly, all of which being configured to form an electrically conductive loop, wherein, the atomizer outer electrode provided on the atomizer is of a cylindrical shape; the battery rod outer electrode of a cylindrical shape arranged on the battery rod is configured to be inserted into or sleeved outside the atomizer outer electrode, and then is coupled to the atomizer outer electrode by rotating either the battery rod outer electrode or the atomizer outer electrode, so as to form an electrical connection in a surface contact manner; and the atomizer inner electrode provided on the atomizer is in contact with and electrically connected to the battery rod inner electrode assembly provided on the battery rod.

Abstract: An electronic inhalation device comprising a power cell and a computer. The computer comprises a computer processor, a memory and an input-output means. The computer is configured in use to enter a menu mode when a user activates the menu mode.

Abstract: An interchangeable and adjustable bikini attachment and closure system that hides from view undesirable mechanical elements of bikini and bra-like articles of apparel, reduces material and garment waste, and provides a versatile, cost-effective solution for creating multiple swimwear “looks” without purchasing full sets or pieces of swimwear each season. The modular swimwear system uses novel closure and attachment mechanisms in the form of unique connector elements for both bikini tops and bikini bottoms to accomplish its interchangeable and versatile features.

Abstract: Exemplary garments and methods of making the same are disclosed. An exemplary garment may include a body, and a hood extending from an upper portion of the body to provide an enclosure. The hood may include a main portion and at least one laterally disposed portion having a greater transparency than the main portion. An exemplary method of making a garment may include providing a body, and forming a hood extending from an upper portion of the body to provide an enclosure, with the hood including a main portion and at least one laterally disposed portion. The method may further include establishing the at least one laterally disposed portion as having a greater transparency than the main portion.

Abstract: An elbow pad (10) is disclosed having a padding member (11), a forward strap (12), and forward strap retainer (14), a midway strap (16), and a midway strap retainer (17). The padding member has a central floor (23), a first trapezoidal side wall (24), a second trapezoidal side wall (25), and a generally rectangular, triple layered end wall (26) to protect the posterior side of the elbow. The elbow pad extends from the elbow to the wrist of a wearer to protect the entire forearm.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to systems, methods, and kits for applying eyelash extensions. In particular, the present invention provides systems, methods, and kits that reduce the amount of time required to apply eyelash extensions.

Abstract: There is also provided a method of applying artificial eyelashes on an eyelid. The method includes forming a cluster of artificial eyelashes which are splayed and coupled together at a first end thereof. The method includes coupling the first end of the cluster of artificial eyelashes to the eyelid. The method includes at least partially attaching a plurality of individually spaced-apart artificial eyelashes on top of the cluster of artificial eyelashes. There is further provided an assembly of artificial eyelashes for a peripheral portion of an eyelid. The assembly includes a plurality of clusters of artificial eyelashes. Each of the clusters of artificial eyelashes is splayed and includes artificial eyelashes coupled together at one end. The ends of the clusters of artificial eyelashes are connectable to the peripheral portion of the eyelid. The assembly includes a plurality of individually spaced-apart artificial eyelashes overlying the cluster of artificial eyelashes.

Abstract: The present disclosure provide techniques for creating a template piece of clothing that can accurately determine a best “fit” of apparel on the consumer. The template may be made of a highly stretchable material with embedded sensors at various locations, wherein the sensors detect an amount of pressure exerted thereon. The template may also include embedded tensile members, such that when the template is worn by the consumer, the tensile members can constrict, expand, or otherwise adapt to the body measurements of the consumer. The template can thereby effectively measure the size and shape of the consumer wearing the template. The information regarding the size and shape of the consumer obtained by the template be outputted to a computer or other readout, and used by the consumer in determining whether corresponding apparel will fit properly.

Abstract: Sensor module for sensing forces to the head of an individual and wirelessly transmitting signals corresponding thereto for analysis, tracking and/or reporting the sensed forces.

Abstract: A protective helmet for successive impacts includes a head cap adapted to surround and move with a wearer's head and an outer shell which surrounds the head cap. An energy absorbing flexible liner predominantly comprised of radially oriented foam columns is attached to both the head cap and outer shell. The liner establishes a preset initial relative position and spacing between the head cap and the outer shell and compliantly absorbs energy imparted to the outer shell during a helmet impact to enable the outer shell to move linearly and angularly relative to the head cap during the helmet impact and to be returned to the initial relative position with the head cap following the impact.

Abstract: The invention includes a protective headpiece and components thereof and methods for their use. Preferred examples comprise a helmet component, a plurality of piers joining said helmet component to a shoulder pad component and an inner hat component permitting the wearer the ability to move the head from side to side and/or up and down within the helmet component without moving the helmet component. The helmet component may comprise a plurality of fluid-filled floating plates or floats on the inner surface thereof to cushion the head against impact during activities including, for example, football, race car driving, military activities and the like.

Abstract: Safety head wear for use for example in high risk activities such as sports and industrial purposes where protection from head injuries is required. Components are provided inserted between the liner and outer shell and consists of two parts; a pod and a foam or foam like surrogate or structure. The foam or foam like material is contained in the chamber and is positioned in such a way to create constant force between the surface of the shell and head. The device provides a method of managing compression force characteristics of the helmet around the head designed to decrease brain trauma resulting from high linear acceleration during impacts to the helmet.

Abstract: A liner system and method of thermoforming. A helmet has an energy absorbing inner system positioned inside the shell. The liner has thermoformed interconnected energy absorbing modules. At least some of the modules in the layer have a basal portion with upper and lower sections when viewed in relation to the wearer's head. The upper section has one or more energy absorbing units. At least some of the units are provided with a wall with a domed cap that faces the outer shell. The units at least partially cushion the blow by absorbing energy imparted by an object that impacts the outer shell. The lower comfort section has a tiered arrangement of layers. The layers are relatively compliant and thus provide a comfortable yet firm fit of the helmet upon the wearer.

Abstract: A shoe has a sensor system operably connected to a communication port. Performance data is collected by the system and can be transferred for further use via the communication port. The shoe may contain an electronic module configured to gather data from the sensors. The module may also transmit the data to an external device for further processing. The collected data can be further processed for a variety of different uses or applications.

Abstract: Embodiments relating to a lightweight sole structure are disclosed. In some embodiments, the sole structure may include a lobed member having a protruding portion associated with a cleat member. In some embodiments, the sole structure may include a chambered member located in an indention in an intermediate member. In some embodiments, the sole structure may include a cleat member having an outer layer, an intermediate layer, and an inner layer. In some embodiments, a method of making a sole structure may include injecting a chambered member in between an upper member and an intermediate member. In some embodiments, the sole structure may include a plurality of zones having varying degrees of flexibility. In some embodiments, the sole structure may include cleat members having penetrating portions for penetrating into the ground surface.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes a sole having a forefoot portion, a heel portion and an outsole having a bottom surface including a primary ground contacting surface. The bottom surface of the outsole includes a forefoot bulge and a heel bulge which provide the footwear with controlled instability for providing dynamic conditioning of the wearer's muscles during the gait cycle.

Abstract: A helmet including an insert provides the ability of including a highly energy absorbing feature within the insert. The insert includes a structure such as a Bingham plastic which, upon impact, absorbs the energy of the impact by converting from a solid to a liquid. Other energy absorbing features are contemplated. The energy absorption process occurs in one aspect in a nonreversible manner such that once a high enough level impact occurs on the insert, it must be replaced within the helmet. The insert has a fastener which enables it to b replaceable. In this manner, a highly absorbing feature of a helmet can be provided to reduce concussions while not requiring the complete replacement of a helmet.

Abstract: An article of footwear having a sole structure and an upper secured to the sole structure and configured to receive a foot. The sole structure includes a lasting board and sole plate construction. One of the lasting board and sole plate may have an opening along the center such that there is little to no overlap, or lamination, between the lasting board and the sole plate along the center of the article of footwear. Such a construction may eliminate weight while maintaining the support provided by the layers of the sole. Additionally, such a construction may enhance flexibility. In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include an insole. In some embodiments, the sole structure of the article of footwear may consist of an insole, a lasting board, and a sole plate.

Abstract: Footwear used for high performance activities such as running can be adhesively attached to the plantar surface of feet rather than uppers or straps. The upper surface of the protective layer of the footwear can have adhesive regions that secure the foot to the footwear and other regions that are not adhesively coupled to the foot. The adhesive regions can be under the heel, along the lateral side of the foot, under the first through fifth metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints and around the perimeter of the foot above the plantar surface.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper that at least in part defines an interior chamber for receiving a foot; an insertable interior midsole component received within the interior chamber; and an exterior sole structure engaged with the upper, wherein the exterior sole structure includes: (a) an exterior midsole component and (b) optionally an outsole component that extends under the forefoot region, wherein the insertable interior midsole component is formed from a foam material comprising a reaction product of about 10 to about 100 phr hydrogenated or non-hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer, 0 to about 40 phr modified hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer, and 0 to about 90 phr alpha olefin copolymer, and at least one additive in an amount suitable to form the foam material; wherein the density of the foam material is less than 0.25 g/cm3.

Abstract: A tightening system for an article of footwear includes a cable disposed between an upper and a sole plate. The upper includes a flexible main body and an exoskeleton covering a portion of the flexible main body in an instep region. The cable is attached to the exoskeleton so that the exoskeleton is tightened to a wearer's foot when the cable length is effectively shortened and/or if the cable tension is increased. The instep region is devoid of the tightening system so that a smooth instep region is provided.

Abstract: An article of footwear may include an upper and a sole structure fixedly attached to a bottom portion of the upper. The sole structure may include a sole component including a baseplate having a bottom surface and at least a first ground engaging member extending substantially downward from the bottom surface of the baseplate, the first ground engaging member having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In addition, the sole structure may also include a tapered support structure having a substantially pyramidal shape and extending substantially downward from the bottom surface of the baseplate, abutting the first ground engaging member at a side portion, and partially surrounding the first ground engaging member such that a portion of the first ground engaging member is exposed between edges of the tapered support structure. Also, the tapered support structure may extend downward from the baseplate less than the first ground engaging member.

Abstract: There is provided a slider for a slide fastener. A lock member is swingably supported by a pillar portion which is erected on an upper surface of a body. A cover member covers the pillar portion and the lock member from above. The lock member includes a body portion which is disposed on the upper surface of the body and a claw portion which protrudes from the body portion and enters an element guide path of the body. One side surface of the claw portion is formed with an inclined surface which causes the claw portion to be gradually tapered toward a front end of the claw portion. The other side surface of the claw portion is formed with a stepped portion which causes a plate thickness of the claw portion to be smaller than a plate thickness of the body portion.

Abstract: A fastener stringer is provided with a fixing section in which at least one of a first and second half sections is fixed to a fastener tape and a tapered extending section which extends from the fixing section toward the outside of the tape. A first side face and a second side face in the tape length direction in the fixing section have concave surfaces which curve in a concave shape so as to gradually increase from an element surface of a fastener element toward the fastener tape. Accordingly, each fastener element can exhibit an appearance close to a metallic fastener element and a locking mechanism of a slider can be made to function stably.

Abstract: An ornamental device includes a two-part curvilinear member, preferably having a band affixed to either end. Each band is provided with complementary fasteners to enable securing the device about a user's wrist, ankle, or arm. An inner side of the member is provided with a thin, transparent cover that is flexible and resilient. When the cover is pulled from the curvilinear member, the cover forms an arcuate shape that mirrors the arcuate shape of the curvilinear member while still being attached. In this position, it enables a user to insert a paper bearing a reading between the cover and curvilinear member. Forcing the cover back against the curvilinear member allows the cover to hold the paper reading in place.

Abstract: A wearable device is provided with a wearable device structure with first end and second ends. A plurality of magnets is positioned at the first and second ends that provide for coupling of the first end to the second end of the wearable device structure. At least a portion of the magnets are sealed in the wearable device structure. ID circuitry is at a surface or an interior of the wearable device structure.

Abstract: An assembly device (3) for pivotally attaching at least two parts (M1, M2), comprising a screw (4) designed to be screwed into a first piece (M1) and carrying a pivoting guide pin (5) of a second part (M2), wherein this assembly device (3) comprises at least one elastic ring (6) able to work in conjunction with an element blocking one of the two parts (M1, M2), so as to prevent accidental axial movement of the assembly device (3).

Abstract: A pair of earring supports for a pair of earrings having earring posts, the pair of earring supports including retainer plates. Each retainer plate respectfully has a post hole formed therein. A first face configured for engaging an ear. A second face opposite the first face. A fastening clip at the second face, the fastening clip is configured for engaging an earring post passing through the post hole, and a stabilizing support has an attachment point affixed at an attachment intersection on the retainer plate. The stabilizing support extends from the retainer plate to a free end of the stabilizing support spaced apart from the retainer plate. The free end of a first retainer plate of the retaining plates is counterclockwise from the first attachment intersection of the first retainer plate when viewing the first retainer plate in a direction towards the second face of the first retainer plate.

Abstract: A light-emitting jewelry piece includes a gemstone, a head, and a mounting. The head is configured to interconnect the gemstone to the mounting. The mounting is arranged secure the light-emitting jewelry piece to a person or a personal adornment.

Abstract: An umbrella with an extendable cover including an umbrella having a shaft, a handle, and a canopy, a bell-shaped cover continuously attached to a perimeter of an underside of the canopy proximal an outer edge of the canopy, a sleeve attached to the cover, a glove attached to the sleeve, a pair of controls disposed on the shaft proximal the handle, and a lever slidably engaged with a vertical slot disposed through the shaft proximal the handle. The cover has an extended position and an alternate retracted position. The cover is in the extended position when a bottom edge of the cover is vertically disposed at a maximum distance away from a top edge of the cover. The cover is in the retracted position when the bottom edge of the cover is disposed proximal the top edge of the cover within the underside of the canopy.

Abstract: A garment carrier which provides a flexible material having a fastener with mateable parts capable of engagement when a garment is rolled within the flexible material.