Abstract: Techniques for drone device control are provided. In one example, a computer-implemented method comprises establishing, by a plurality of drone devices respectively operatively coupled to processors and coordinating with one other, a defined region of a defined coordinate space of a geographic area, wherein the defined region is associated with an animal. The computer-implemented method also comprises monitoring, by the plurality of drone devices, a physical relationship between the animal and the defined region. The computer-implemented method can also comprise, in response to identifying that the physical relationship between the animal and the defined region fails to meet a criterion, performing, by the plurality of drone devices, a pattern of operations selected to alter the physical relationship between the animal and the defined region to satisfy the criterion.

Abstract: A washable, reusable mat that serves as a stimulation device for animals, the mat having a base a base with a pile thereon, the pile being formed from a plurality of fingers which are arranged to form a structure with a plurality of spaces. Food or treats for the animal (e.g., a dog), are placed on the mat, and the food or treats fall among the fingers and are captured within the spaces formed in the pile by the fingers. The animal locates the food or treats by employing the animal's olfactory senses, such as smell and taste, to locate the food within the matt pile. The animal may use its nose (or paws) to gain access to the captured food by tunneling among the fingers, moving the fingers aside, or other action to access the hidden food.

Abstract: A method of using a leash includes holding the leash, the leash including a main strap, a pet attachment arm connected to the main strap, the pet attachment arm including an animal connection mechanism, and a pet accessory arm connected to the main strap, the pet accessory arm including an accessory connection mechanism; and connecting the pet attachment arm to a pet.

Abstract: A leash including a housing, a reel assembly rotatably coupled to the housing, and a tether coupled to the reel assembly. The reel assembly includes a tether wheel coupled to the tether, and rotatable relative to the housing in a first rotational direction to effectuate extension of the tether, and rotatable in a second rotational direction to effectuate retraction of the tether. A hard stop gear is coupled to the tether wheel, and a soft stop gear is rotatably coupled to the hard stop gear. A dampening spring is coupled to the soft stop gear and the hard stop gear to impart a biasing force on the soft stop gear as it rotates relative to the hard stop gear. A soft stop lever is operatively coupled to the soft stop gear and is configured to selectively restrict rotation of the soft stop gear relative to the housing.

Abstract: A pet buckle includes a hook-shaped buckle body, and a lock rod openable with respect thereto; the buckle body having an end portion and a front end, with an opening formed those two; the lock rod including a first end hinged to the buckle body through a first rotation shaft, and a second end locked with the front end, a middle part thereof sheathed by a torsional spring, to enclose the opening of the buckle body; the end portion including a first and a second anti-trip clips, with the first one fixed to both ends of the first rotation shaft; the second clip fixed to both ends of the second rotation shaft; a stepped portion and an anti-trip portion engaged with each other formed on the inside of the two clips respectively. With the clips, the lock rod cannot rotate to open the pet buckle occasionally, thereby improving the reliability.

Abstract: Water consumption monitors adapted for use in equine applications are provided. In some embodiments, an outer casing is provided that is separably coupled to a wall mount. A bucket retention arm is coupled to the wall mount and extends distally from the wall mount through the outer casing. A cantilever sensor is disposed within the outer casing and is operably coupled to the bucket retention arm. The cantilever sensor is adapted to detect a force on the bucket retention arm. A transmitter is operably coupled to the cantilever sensor and is adapted to transmit data regarding the force on the bucket retention arm.

Abstract: A vehicle for moving stacks of cages for poultry or other animals between a cage loading/unloading station and a cage filling station is described. The vehicle comprises a vehicle floor, a first frame and a second frame, a first tray supported rotatably idle by said first frame and a second tray supported rotatably idle by said second frame, a device for rotating said frames about an axis of rotation, wherein the movement of said trays comprises a movement of rotation about said axis of rotation of the frames and a guided movement determined by the engagement between a pin of the tray and a cam.

Abstract: An aquarium lighting system has a set of lighting elements (30) each with a beam shaping element (60, 70) for passing first light which is emitted from the lighting element at an angle to the normal below a threshold and for processing second light which is emitted from the lighting element at an angle to the normal above the threshold. The processing gives a greater amount of scattering compared to the passed light so that direct light at steep angles is avoided.

Abstract: A hand-held submersible aquarium power cleaner for cleaning debris from an aquarium, includes an elongated housing having an intake compartment and a filtering compartment therein. A nozzle is positioned at a front end of the housing and is in fluid communication with the intake compartment, wherein a selectively openable channel is provided between the intake compartment and the filter compartment. A filter is disposed in fluid communication with the filter compartment. A water pump assembly has an impeller rotatably connected to an electric motor, wherein the impeller is in fluid communication with the intake compartment. A power switch controls power to the electric motor so that rotation of the impeller draws aquarium water and debris through the nozzle and into the filtering compartment, where the debris is captured and retained by the filter and cleansed water is discharged into the aquarium.

Abstract: L-serine, L-serine precursors, L-serine derivatives and L-serine conjugates for treatment, amelioration and/or prevention of protein aggregation/tangles/plaques and diseases associated with protein aggregation/tangles/plaques. In particular, treatments and uses for L-serine, L-serine precursors, L-serine derivatives and L-serine conjugates include Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington disease (HD).

Abstract: Provided are non-human animals comprising a mutation in the Fbn1 gene to model neonatal progeroid syndrome with congenital lipodystrophy (NPSCL). Also provided are methods of making such non-human animal models. The non-human animal models can be used for screening compounds for activity in inhibiting or reducing NPSCL or ameliorating NPSCL-like symptoms or screening compounds for activity potentially harmful in promoting or exacerbating NPSCL as well as to provide insights in to the mechanism of NPSCL and potentially new therapeutic and diagnostic targets.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to genetically modified swine wherein at least one allele of a SIGLEC1 gene has been inactivated and/or at least one allele of a CD163 gene has been inactivated. Genetically modified swine having both alleles of the SIGLEC1 gene and/or both alleles CD163 gene inactivated are resistant to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). Methods for producing such transgenic swine are also provided.

Abstract: A commercial fishing trawl has a net and a mouth opening defined by a head line, a foot line, and side lines. The mouth opening is spread by a plurality of foil segments threaded on one or more of the head line, foot line, or side lines. Foil segments may also be threaded on tag lines or foil lines attached about the mouth opening to spread and maintain the mouth opening as the trawl is towed through the water, behind a tow vessel.

Abstract: The present invention is a jetter assembly for cleaning aquaculture nets in situ. The jetter assembly includes a high-pressure rotational union connected to an outer shroud assembly and an inner washing ring assembly. The rotational union includes a hose inlet connected to a fluid hose, a shaft and a plurality of inner ring segments securing the rotational union to the outer shroud assembly. The outer shroud assembly includes several supporting gussets connecting the outer shroud assembly to the rotational union and several inner and outer shroud sandwich plates connecting several shroud sections. The inner washing ring assembly includes a manifold, several spray bars and a centrifugal vortex plate that generates a fluid vortex to clean the nets.

Abstract: This invention references a product and related methods for transforming a common soft body fishing lure into a materially different lure. By adding the buoyancy invention and one or more related components in the prescribed manner, the flotation, appearance, and movement of a soft body lure is changed to a completely different fishing presentation and application. The invention and related methods are not limited to a single common soft body lure shape but can also be used with custom soft body lures specifically designed to attach to the invention.

Abstract: A tackle storage assembly for storing fishing tackle within a fishing rod includes a fishing rod that has a handle and a rod. The handle is substantially hollow. A cylinder is provided and the cylinder contains fishing tackle. The cylinder is slidably positioned in the handle of the fishing rod. Thus, the cylinder is selectively stored in the handle.

Abstract: Representative implementations of devices and techniques provide a full-size fishing rod that may be folded for storage or travel. In the implementations, the fishing rod is comprised of multiple sections (e.g., two or more sections) coupled together with a coupling line. For example, the coupling line passes through each section, coupling the multiple sections of the fishing rod together. Ferrules may be used at an end of one or more of the sections to further support the rod when extended and to guide the sections during assembly.

Abstract: A fishing accessory for preventing the tangling of a fishing line on a fishing pole comprising a base attachable to the fishing pole and an adjustable guide member. The adjustable guide member is movable from a first position wherein a portion of the guide member contacts a guide surface of the base to a position wherein the portion of the guide member is positioned distant from the guide surface. The fishing accessory includes an adjustment member extending from the guide member engaged with an opening in the base wherein moving the adjustment member in one direction moves the guide member away from the guide surface and moving the adjustment member in the opposite direction moves the guide member closer to the guide surface. The position of the guide member is adjustable toward and away from the guide surface to accommodate a specific diameter fishing line.

Abstract: An offshore fishing apparatus aligns properly, is light weight, and is consistently adjustable by the user to their desired tension for smooth release of their fishing line when a fish strikes or when any force overcomes the applied tension placed on the fishing line release arm. The device further includes a proximal beveled entry and exit including a pivot ball with an aperture, through which a kite or connection line is run through. The pivot ball allows the device to pivot in the direction the fishing line moves. The device is advantageously light weight, in part due to lightweight materials used to construct the device without reducing the device's performance.

Abstract: A live well buddy is used to contain fish or other catch in a fishing boat's live well, keeping the catch safe and fresh and allowing the user to remove the entire catch at once. A net is perimetrically connected to a flotation ring, forming a live well chamber within the net. Fish are placed within the net through the flotation ring, the user may remove the entire catch by grasping and pulling the flotation ring and attached net out of the live well along with all the fish contained therein. A plurality of weights may be connected to the bottom of the net to keep the bottom portion of the net sunk to the floor of the live well. A stretch-on cover with a slit may be attached atop the flotation ring, providing a cover for the live well chamber while allowing fish to be placed into the live well chamber.

Abstract: Apparatuses, methods, and systems are provided for making the harvesting of sea life efficient. For example, real-time or periodic information about the status of the many traps a fisherman may have set is communicated to the fisherman while the traps are still in the water. A fisherman can use this information to determine the best time and path for trap retrieval and reset operations to reduce fuel use and improve the catch efficiency per unit effort.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions and methods for eliminating acarids, such as dust mites. The methods include contacting a sheet impregnated with an acarid attracting composition with an object containing acarids. Acarids enter the sheet, which can then be removed to eliminate the acarids. Also disclosed are to acarid attracting compositions and products and kits for attracting, trapping and eliminating acarids.

Abstract: An insect trap can include a ramp, a planar surface that can include a coating of pressure sensitive adhesive, and one or a plurality of attractant elements, the attractant elements containing a carbon dioxide generating material.

Abstract: A discrete and safe automated insect monitoring system includes a housing, an interior chamber within the housing, and a light source arranged within the housing to illuminate at least a portion of a floor surface of the interior chamber. A multi-pixel optical sensor is arranged within the housing so that a field of view of the sensor comprehends a substantial portion of the floor surface. A processing circuit arranged within the housing receives optical data from the multi-pixel optical sensor, analyzes the optical data to detect the intrusion of an insect or other object into the interior chamber by comparing most recently received optical data to previously received optical data, and generates an indication in response to detecting the intrusion of an insect or other object. Detection and/or classification results can be wirelessly forwarded to another device, to alert appropriate personnel.

Abstract: A bug-removal vacuum machine has a horizontal deck, and a structure providing a trapezoidal-shaped air passage directing insects drawn by vacuum-induced air flow through an electrified killing matrix, and into a collection tray

Abstract: An operating device creating a rising heated vapor which passes through a grill having a concave surface enabling the condensate formed on the grill to migrate towards the center of the grill and away from the periphery of the grill which prevents condensate from dropping onto the operating device interfering with its operation.

Abstract: A fluid spray apparatus includes an inlet and first and second outlets. A first actuator may communicate the inlet with at least one of the outlets. A second actuator also may communicate the inlet with at least one of the outlets. A passage network of the fluid spray apparatus communicates the first and second actuators with the first and second outlets. A diverter structure is disposed in the passage network. The diverter structure includes a first diverter structure arrangement. In the first diverter structure arrangement, the first actuator communicates the inlet with the first outlet and the second actuator communicates the inlet with the second outlet. The diverter structure also includes a second diverter structure arrangement. In the second diverter structure arrangement, the first actuator communicates the inlet with the second outlet and the second actuator communicates the inlet with the first outlet.

Abstract: A tree stand may include a platform having a tree gripping portion, a support extension extending from the platform and an imperforate strap connected to the support extension so as to wrap about a tree.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a tree stand, specifically a ladder stand that includes a novel mechanism for anchoring to a tree at a platform level. The invention employs a mechanical assemblage and clamp system to lock in place against a tree. The mechanical features of the invention can be activated from a ground level, meaning that a user can safely secure the ladder stand before ascending to an elevated position.

Abstract: A Helical Deer Rattle is disclosed. The rattle is made of two staves having tines of high-density polymer that replicates the density and mass of deer antlers. Each staff has a single helix-shaped tine. The two tines are formed so that they can be screwed together for silent transportation and easy storage. To use the rattle, a hunter strikes and rubs the two tines together to create the sound of deer antlers clashing, thus calling deer to the hunter. Each staff may have a handle with a guide groove, which holds the tine of other staff when the staves are screwed together. A cord may be included with each handle, to further assist in securing the tines to the handles of the other staff.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for the stabilization of glucose, lactate and homocysteine in blood after collection, to a use of the provided compositions and a method for the stabilization of glucose, lactate and homocysteine in blood after collection, as well as optionally the in vitro determination of glucose, lactate and homocystcine in blood, and a blood collection device provided for said use and method.

Abstract: The invention relates to a non-aqueous, emulsifiable and pourable concentrate formulation comprising: (a) at least 20% by weight of at least one non-ionic surfactant chosen from polyethylene glycol esters of fatty acids surfactants, relative to the total weight of the concentrate formulation; (b) a liquid medium wholly or partly formed from at least one non esterified vegetable oil or mixtures thereof; (c) at least one phyllosilicate, said phyllosilicate being present in a content of less than or equal to 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the concentrate formulation; and (d) at least one activator of said phyllosilicate. The invention also relates to the use of such a concentrate formulation for preparing a liquid aqueous emulsion, a suspoemulsion or an agricultural oil dispersion.

Abstract: A suspension for removing microbes from a surface comprises contacting a plurality of modified particles (MPs), comprise a plurality of microparticles are coated by one or more polymers or their surfaces are covalently bonded to functionality that promotes a cationic surface. The microparticles can be a metal, metal oxide, an organic particle, or any other microparticle. A metal oxide microparticle can be functionalized by a silane coupling agent or the organic microparticle can be a polymer or copolymer that has a functionalized monomer or polymer covalently or ionically bonded to a particle. The coating can be a polymer such as polyethylene imine or chitosan. The surface can be contacted by washing with the suspension of the modified microparticles.

Abstract: Herbicide compositions that include herbicide concentrate compositions (“concentrates”) and “herbicide application compositions,” as well as precursors thereof, derivatives thereof, as methods of preparing and using these compositions, the herbicide compositions containing acid herbicide, amine surfactant, and inorganic acid. The following description relates to herbicide compositions such as herbicide concentrates and herbicide application compositions, as well as compositions that are precursors to these compositions or derivatives of these compositions, and related methods.

Abstract: An oily suspension composition that can achieve improved long-term storage stability, improved water-dispersibility and suspensibility for use after dilution, and an improved pharmacological effect of a solid active ingredient, and includes a pulverized solid agrochemical active ingredient, and a provided method for efficiently producing such compositions. The oily suspension composition including a suspension including a pulverized active ingredient such as an agrochemical which is obtained by subjecting a solid active ingredient to wet grinding in water, an oily dispersion medium, and various emulsifiers and thickeners, and the like.

Abstract: A composition for killing an animal, e.g. a rodent, comprising: (i) a toxin component comprising one or more agents toxic to the animal, e.g. cholecalciferol or 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (vitamin D3); and (ii) a carrier system for the toxin component; wherein the carrier system (ii) comprises: (a) at least one solvent or dispersant for the toxin component, e.g. an alcohol such as ethanol, and (b) at least one dermal disruptant component, e.g. dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The compositions provide enhanced dermal penetration of the toxin into and through the skin of the animal onto which the composition is sprayed or delivered, e.g. in a trap or other apparatus.

Abstract: Methodologies, formulations, and kits suitable for decontaminating environments containing bacterial spores by degrading the spores. Formulations contain papain and at least one germinant. Methods for killing bacterial spores include contacting the spores with the formulation for a duration sufficient to initiate germination of the bacterial spores. The spores are then killed with the papain in the formulation, or are rendered by the papain susceptible to being killed by a reagent.

Abstract: Provided is an antimicrobial photoreactive composition comprising a photocatalytic multijunction composite that is photoreactive in ordinary room lighting and comprises at least one photocatalytic heterojunction that is primarily carbon based. The composition further comprises at least one surface-coupling material, optionally at least one additive selected from a charge-transfer augmenting material, a light-capturing augmenting material, an antimicrobial augmenting material(s), or a combination thereof, and a carrier. The composition can be coupled to a surface or embedded in a cationic polymer matrix to form an antimicrobial film that is removable. Further provided is a method of disinfecting a surface comprising applying the antimicrobial photoreactive composition to a surface.

Abstract: A composition comprising a pesticide and alkoxylated ester is provided, as well as seed including the composition. Use of alkoxylated esters as adjuvants in pesticide-comprising spray mixtures are also described. Methods for controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesirable plant growth and/or undesirable insect or mite infestation and/or for regulating the growth of plants are further provided, wherein the composition is allowed to act on the respective pests, the habitat thereof or the plants to be protected from the respective pest, on the soil and/or on undesirable plants and/or the crop plants and/or the habitat thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel formulation, comprising Anacardic acid or its derivatives and phytohormones (1-NAA and GA3), which promotes the increase in fiber yield and improvement in fiber quality. The in-vitro ovule culture assay was used to check the effect of formulation on initiation and development of cotton fiber. Increased initiation and length of cotton fibers was observed in the cultured ovules treated with the formulation which were validated by biochemical assays. The formulation was applied directly onto the at least 70 plants of Gossypium hirsutum genotypes in three replicates with control plants treated with phytohormones only. The formulation was applied by spraying on buds, flowers and bolls. The treated plants show significant increase in boll weight, fiber length, fineness and fiber strength. Thus, the formulation may serve as an important plant growth stimulator leading to the increase in fiber yield and improvement in fiber quality in cotton plants.

Abstract: A method for disinfecting a surface contaminated with microorganisms or suspected of being contaminated with microorganisms, the microorganism being one or more of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus hirae, including the step of contacting the surface with a disinfecting composition including: 0.1-10 wt. % of one or more N-acylated amino acids or N-acylated peptides, or a salt thereof, less than 0.1 wt. % of hydrogen peroxide, 0.1-20 wt. % of one or more non-ethoxylated anionic surfactants, 0.05-5 wt. % of a carboxylic acid, wherein the disinfecting composition has a pH in the range of 1-4.5 wherein the composition includes less than 5 wt. % of ethoxylated anionic surfactant. The invention also pertains to a composition suitable for use in the method according to the invention. The method and composition provide excellent biocidal activity over a broad range of organisms using low concentrations of organic acids.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of an agent containing at least one hydroxycoumarin and at least one vitamin D analog for controlling rodents in which there is a practical resistance at least to a second-generation anticoagulant. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a method for controlling resistant rodents through use of the agents described according to the invention.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods of making solid bodies of dazomet for use in internal remedial treatments of wood and methods of applying such solid bodies to wooden structures and manufacturing such solid bodies. The solid bodies can be easily transported and inserted into treatment holes in utility poles, wooden pilings, and other wooden structures, that can deliver a dose of insecticide and fungicide that combats internal decay in the wood.

Abstract: The present invention relates to herbicidally-active pyridino-/pyrimidino-pyrazole derivatives, as well as to processes and intermediates used for the preparation of such derivatives. The invention further extends to herbicidal compositions comprising such derivatives, as well as to the use of such compounds and compositions in controlling undesirable plant growth: in particular the use in controlling weeds, in crops of useful plants.

Abstract: A plant treatment method comprising contacting the plant with: (a) a compound of formula (I): or a derivative salt thereof wherein L is a linking group; each of R1, R2 and R3 is independently selected from an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or alkoxy group; R4 is oxygen or an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl or aryl group; each of R5 and R6 is an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl or aryl group; (b) at least one cationic biocide; (c) a hydrocarbyl saccharide compound; and (d) a non-ionic surfactant.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and devices for controlling arthropods, including insects and arachnids in an environment. The methods generally comprise: generating a near-ideal gas Purified Hydrogen Peroxide Gas (PHPG) that is substantially non-hydrated (e.g., in the form of water in solution or water in solution or water molecules bonded by covalence, van der Waals forces, or London forces) and substantially free of, e.g., ozone, plasma species, and/or organic species; and directing the gas comprising primarily PHPG into the environment such that the PHPG acts to control arachnids in the environment. In certain aspects, the arachnids may be totally or partially killed.

Abstract: The invention concerns a three component system comprising surface-active substances, vitamins and metal ions for efficient destruction and removal of contaminating proteins, nucleic acids and microorganisms from surfaces like for example laboratory benches, floors, equipment and instruments. These non-corrosive and non-toxic solutions for removal of proteins, nucleic acids and microorganisms are applied by spraying, rubbing or immersion of contaminated surfaces thereby destroying, solubilizing inactivating and removing proteins and nucleic acids. In that way also microorganisms are killed with high efficiency and at the same time all genetic information is inactivated.

Abstract: A biocidal additive formulation comprises a silver containing glass particle, and a combination of at least two metal based compounds. A metal in each of the metal based compounds is selected from the group consisting of silver, copper, zinc, mercury, tin, lead, bismuth, barium, cadmium, chromium, titanium, and a combination thereof. Another biocidal additive formulation comprises a silver containing glass particle, ZnO, and Bi2O3. A glass substrate possessing a durable biocidal property and an article possessing a durable biocidal property are also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions including a dispersion of solid particles of a substantially insoluble copper compound, and an organic biocide, wherein at least 20% of all particles of the composition have a particle size greater than 25 microns. Also disclosed herein are methods of making and using the same.

Abstract: Provided is a method for preparing a sterilizing deodorant and a sterilizing deodorant prepared thereby. Particularly, the method for preparing a sterilizing deodorant includes preparing a first mixed solution containing a green tea leaf extract, a Lespedeza bicolor leaf extract, a Chamaecyparis obtusa leaf extract and a calcined shellfish shell powder, preparing a second mixed solution by adding germanium oxide and nano silver to the first mixed solution, and filtering the second mixed solution through a tourmaline filter. The germanium oxide and the nano silver are contained in a weight ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:3.