Abstract: A method using a membrane-concentration method and a freeze-concentration method includes: a membrane-concentration step in which a fluid to be treated is cooled and a membrane-concentrated fluid is prepared by membrane-concentrating the solid content concentration thereof by more than 1.5 times; an ice crystal generation step in which said membrane-concentrated fluid is cooled, ice crystals of said membrane-concentrated fluid are generated in said membrane-concentrated fluid, and a mixed fluid to be treated is formed wherein said mixed fluid to be treated is comprised of said ice crystals and a concentrated fluid to be treated produced from said membrane-concentrated fluid by generating said ice crystals in said membrane-concentrated fluid thereby said membrane-concentrated fluid is concentrated; and an ice crystal separation step in which said mixed fluid is separated into said concentrated fluid to be treated and said ice crystals, and said separated concentrated fluid to be treated is retrieved.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a lollipop (10) comprising: a hollowed stick (14); a sweetmeat (12) mounted on one end of the hollowed stick (14); a cover (16) in a form of a sheet folded around both, the sweetmeat (12) and the stick (14); and a lollipop cover cutter (20), comprising: a handle (24) mating with the hollowed stick (14); and a sickle (22) connected to the handle (24); thereby upon locating the stick (14) in the sickle (22) and rotating the stick (14), cutting the cover (16) by the blade (26).

Abstract: The present invention relates to water-based coatings for frozen confectioneries intended for animal consumption. In particular, it relates to the use of starch and protein in the preparation of a low fat water-based coating for a frozen confectionery.

Abstract: Anti-sense-oriented RNA gene suppression agents in the form of a loop of anti-sense-oriented RNA is produced in cells of transgenic organisms, e.g. plants, by transcription from a recombinant DNA construct that comprises in 5? to 3? order a promoter element operably linked to more than one anti-sense-oriented DNA element and one or more complementary DNA elements.

Abstract: Provided are compositions, and methods of making the same, including a liquid egg product and a plant fiber, where the plant fiber has at least one of a carrot fiber, an oat fiber, and a corn fiber.

Abstract: Low fat peanut butter food slices that are all natural, made from dehydrated peanut powder, and having nothing added thereto but water, or water with honey and or salt dissolved therein. The peanut butter food slices have a viscosity in the range of 800,000 centipoise to 2,000,000 centipoise which is much thicker than regular peanut butter which has a viscosity in the range of 150,000 centipoise to 250,000 centipoise.

Abstract: A thin-walled polypropylene product display tube. The thin-walled polypropylene product display tube includes a tubular member having a closed end, an open end, an inner diameter and, between the closed end and the open end, a first outer diameter, the open end terminating in a flared portion having a second outer diameter, the tubular member having a wall thickness sufficient to yield a level of haze equal to or less than 8%. A process for forming a thin-walled polypropylene product display tube is also provided.

Abstract: A fleece for a smokeless tobacco pouch is disclosed. The fleece is formed with apertures.

Abstract: A self contained, hermetically sealed, cigarette shaped nicotine inhaler tube includes a cylindrical wall and formed closed ends. The two or more elements making up the tube are formed and sealed together after forming at a location between the closed ends, capturing a filler within. The filler is in the tube to carry nicotine. The closed ends are recessed from the end of the cylindrical tube and may be truncated conically shaped. The closed ends may be drawn further into the tube using heat and the pressure of a probe. A tool for piercing the ends of the tube includes a supportive cylindrical cavity slightly larger than the tube with a centric spike and a terminal surface in the cavity. The cylindrical wall of the tube is supported by the cavity and the truncated conical shape of the end wall to receive the spike for penetrating the end wall at each end. The terminal surface prevents excessive penetration of the spike.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices. The aerosol delivery devices may include a housing and a cartridge including an atomizer and a reservoir configured to contain an aerosol precursor composition. The cartridge may be configured to move relative to at least a portion of the housing between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. Related assembly methods are also provided.

Abstract: An electronic cigarette is provided, which can prevent users being short of breath and a short circuit of a battery assembly. When the atomizer assembly is connected to the battery assembly, the first elastic electrode column and the second elastic electrode column abut against the annular end surface of the outer electrode and the annular end surface of the inner electrode, respectively, and the first elastic electrode column and the second elastic electrode column are both deviated from the opening of the hollow cavity of the inner electrode of the atomizer assembly. Thus, a manner of point-surface contact and deviating from the opening of the cavity is formed, which not only ensures an unobstructed air passage and prevents users being short of breath.

Abstract: An e-vaping section includes a power supply, control circuitry and a removable insulator. The removable insulator is operable to prevent an electrical connection between the power supply and the control circuitry during manufacturing and shipment of the section when the e-vaping section is in a stored configuration.

Abstract: A vaporizer device of cotton-free e-cigarette, comprising: an outer sleeve, a supporting frame arranged inside the outer sleeve, a vaporizer unit fixed into the supporting frame, a filter piece and a liquid percolation piece sequentially connected to one end of the supporting frame, and a fixation seat connected to other end of the supporting frame. A backflow groove is made inside the supporting frame to prevent leakage caused by the backflow of residual liquid. The filter piece is made of heat-resisting material. The liquid percolation piece is connected at one end with a liquid storage cup by snap joints. Another end of the filter piece keeps a safe distance away from the vaporizer unit to avoid being burned. The liquid storage cup and the outer sleeve are assembled to form a slit therebetween to prevent the backflow of residual liquid.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and related methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for testing components of an aerosol delivery device. For example, a system for testing a control board for an aerosol delivery device may include a control board for an aerosol delivery device and a test apparatus. The test apparatus may provide a test initiation signal to the control board. The control board may execute an onboard diagnostic test to test operation of the control board in response to the test initiation signal. The control board may provide diagnostic information generated based on execution of the onboard diagnostic test to the test apparatus. The test apparatus may determine, based on the diagnostic information, whether the control board is faulty.

Abstract: The present invention provides a garment with cup sections, which can lift up entire breasts to a higher position and thus can attain improved breast-shaping properties. The garment with cup sections according to the present invention includes: a pair of cup sections 101; and a back section 103. The back section 103 is arranged on lateral sides of the pair of cup sections 101. Each of the cup sections 101 includes an upper breast retaining section 105 arranged between a front-center-side upper edge portion and a lateral-side upper edge portion on an inner side of the cup section 101. The upper breast retaining section 105 is formed so as to cover at least part of an upper breast region positioned obliquely upward to a lateral side relative to a nipple and apply a pressing force to the part.

Abstract: A bicycle shorts system includes a bicycle shorts having a waist section configured to fit around a waist area of the user; a first leg section and a second leg section integral with and secured to the waist section; and a padded area having a material extending from the first leg section to the second leg section, the padded area forming a cavity. The system further includes a liquid filling assembly having a first liquid chamber carried by the first leg section; and a second liquid chamber carried by the second leg section. The method includes filling the first liquid chamber and the second liquid chamber.

Abstract: The elasticized cushioned thermal glove provides heating, cooling, and compression modalities. The constant fluidity of the gel disposed in the gel bladders substantially throughout the glove palm side is in constant fluidity when heated and cooled. The gel is pre-heated via a power module, heatable when in use, and also pre-cooled prior to use. The glove is also provided as a compression glove to alleviate pain, swelling, and to provide for support for those in need. As the glove provides these heating and cooling advantages, fingers can be left in an open state to enhance dexterity as opposed to full-fingered gloves.

Abstract: A method utilizing a synthetic neck muscle system for minimizing risk of an injury when the system is worn by a user. An impact-absorbing layer of the system is constructed from a core material having a fiber-reinforced foam with a plurality of microspheres located therein. A shell frame of the system has a shell material having a fiber-reinforced putty. The system is molded into a C-shaped structure to be wrapped around the user's neck.

Abstract: A glove base and glove are provided, which release moisture outside from the entire glove when the glove is configured only of a fiber glove base or when a coating is provided to a surface of the glove base. The glove base of the present invention is made of fibers and has a hand shape. Water-absorbing properties of a first fiber type exposed mainly to an inside surface of the glove base are higher than water-absorbing properties of a second fiber type exposed mainly to outside surface of the glove base. The first fiber type absorbs and moves moisture on a surface of a hand inside the glove base toward the second fiber type, and the second fiber type then moves the moisture from the first fiber type mainly in a surface direction of the glove base.

Abstract: A configuration for a garment that includes a pocket with a recessed zipper that may be virtually invisible (especially when the wearer uses the pocket to store only a few, relatively flat objects). A portion of the pocket extends above the zipper closing the pocket so that a pickpocket has to reach into the pocket before he realizes that there is a zipper protecting it. In other words, the zipper is recessed from an edge of the pocket to form a hidden means of sealing the pocket.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a flame resistant thermal liner comprising a nonwoven sheet comprising nanofibers of a synthetic polymer having an limiting oxygen index of at least 21, a mean flow pore of 10 micrometers or less, a thickness air permeability of 25 to 6000 cubic feet per min?micrometers (12 to 2880 cubic meters per square meter per min?micrometers), and an average thickness T1; and a thermally stable flame resistant fabric attached to an outer surface of the nonwoven sheet, the fabric having an average thickness T2; a surface of the thermally stable fabric being in contact with a surface of the nonwoven sheet; wherein T1 and T2 are selected such that the ratio of T1 to T2 is less than 0.75. The invention also relates to a flame resistant composite fabric comprising the flame resistant thermal liner and a garment comprising this flame resistant composite fabric.

Abstract: The shirt stay suspenders with a quick release buckle is adapted for use with a shirt. The shirt stay suspenders with a quick release buckle is an apparel stay that is used to hold a shirt in position while it is worn by a wearer. The shirt stay suspenders with a quick release buckle is worn underneath the outer apparel layer of the wearer such that the shirt stay suspenders with a quick release buckle will not been seen. From this location, the shirt stay suspenders with a quick release buckle attaches the shirt of the wearer to the foot of the wearer such that the shirt will remain in position and not become what is commonly referred to as “untucked”. The shirt stay suspenders with a quick release buckle comprises a plurality of stays. Each of the plurality of stays further comprises a first strap, a second strap, and a quick release buckle.

Abstract: False eyelash apparatus and methods for applying false eyelashes. A false eyelash holder for holding a false eyelash has a support member for supporting the false eyelash and is adjustable to cause inversion of the false eyelash from a convex shape to a substantially concave shape. An inverter-loader device is configured to receive the holder and operable to adjust the holder to cause the false eyelash inversion. An applicator for applying an inverted false eyelash to an eyelid may have a unitary structure or may be a clamp for gripping the inverted false eyelashes. The applicator is operable to carry the inverted false eyelash for allowing the applicator to roll the false eyelash lengthways onto an eyelid and allowing the rolling false eyelash to release from the applicator. The applicator may be disposable.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a helmet that includes an outer shell, a heads-up information system that comprises a display, and an attachment assembly. The heads-up information system is movable from a storage position within the outer shell to a use position in which the display of the heads-up information system is visible by a user, without obstructing the field of vision of the user, when the helmet is worn by the user. The attachment assembly is coupled to outer shell and the heads-up information system, and is operable to move the heads-up information system between the storage position and the use position.

Abstract: A foot balancing device includes a shoe insert, a main balancing element, three auxiliary force-transferring elements, and three auxiliary balancing elements. The main balancing element is provided in an arch region of the shoe insert and serves as a fulcrum on the shoe insert for the front part of the sole of one of the user's feet and the heel of the foot. The auxiliary force-transferring elements are provided in the arch region of the shoe insert so that the pressure center of the sole will displace along an ideal line. The auxiliary balancing elements are located forward of and on two lateral sides of the main balancing element respectively to support a transverse arch, inner arch, and outer arch of the foot respectively. Thus, the user's body weight can distribute evenly over the sole while the user is standing or walking, thereby preventing injury resulting from improper posture.

Abstract: Articles of footwear and footwear systems include modules, e.g., for sensing physical and/or physiological characteristics associated with use of the footwear or for performing other functions. Such systems and methods may use physical or other interaction(s) between the module and the article of footwear for activating and/or deactivating the module and/or sensing devices included with the module, for confirming whether the module and footwear are authorized for use with one another, and/or for automatic data algorithm selection methods. Additionally, such systems and methods also may use the activation and/or authentication systems for the module for data input to the module. Some examples of such systems and methods may utilize magnets and magnetic sensing systems and/or light (or other radiation) sources and sensing systems for activation, authentication, data input, and/or algorithm selection.

Abstract: A sole for an article of footwear includes a fiber-reinforced polymer plate extending from a heel area of the article of footwear to a toe area of the article of footwear, wherein flexibility of the fiber-reinforced polymer plate varies as a function of location along a longitudinal axis of the fiber-reinforced polymer plate, and wherein the fiber-reinforced polymer plate includes a stiffening layer disposed at a midfoot area of the fiber-reinforced polymer plate.

Abstract: An article of footwear may incorporate a chamber with an outer barrier and a tether element. The barrier may be formed from a polymer material that defines an interior cavity, and tether element may be located within the interior cavity and joined to opposite sides of the barrier. Upon pressurization of the chamber, the tether element may extend across the interior cavity and be placed in tension by the outward force of a pressurized fluid within the interior cavity. The tether element may have a variety of configurations. For example, the tether element may have a diagonal orientation, or different tether elements may have different lengths. A tether element may also have plates or tie pieces secured to opposite sides of the chamber, with one or more tethers extending between. Also, the tether element may include one of more sheets that extend across the interior cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus for selectively extending and retracting spikes includes spike actuating assemblies mounted to, and cooperating between, a first plate and a first slider frame, and a second plate and a second slider frame, pivotally mounted to the first plate and first slider frame respectively. Each spike actuating assembly contains a spike. The first slider frame is translatable to actuate the spike actuating assemblies to thereby extend and retract the spikes from the spike actuating assemblies. A cyclically alternating positioner is mounted on the first plate for moving the first and second slider frames relative to the first and second plates. The positioner has only a single actuating button adjacent the heel. Depressing the actuating button a first time causes the positioner to move the slider frames to extend the spikes. Depressing the actuating button a second time causes the positioner to move the slider frames to retract the spikes.

Abstract: A versatile jewelry includes a main body having an inner surface arranged to be worn against the wrist and an outer surface opposite the inner surface. First and second end portions define a clearance sized to receive the wrist when the main body is donned by the user. At least one retaining feature comprises a plurality of hooks. A hair band is adapted to be selectively secured to the main body via the at least one retaining feature and to span the clearance at a height above the inner surface. The at least one retaining feature maintains the hair band in place on the main body and distributes pressure from the hair band away from the wrist. The hair band has an elasticity and the main body has a rigidity arranged to maintain the hair band at a height above the inner surface across the clearance.

Abstract: A ring includes a head portion, a base portion and a structure. The structure is incorporated into a first thickness of the head portion with the structure being between an inner rim and an outer rim of the head portion. The structure includes an invisible setting located within an indentation of the structure with the invisible setting mounting at least one center stone and a plurality of secondary stones in such a way that the at least one center stone and the plurality of secondary stones appear to be a continuous, uninterrupted surface thereby creating an illusion of a large stone in a marquise or round shape.

Abstract: A cover-type containing structure for flexible enclosures primarily includes a front cover sheet, a rear cover sheet and a flexible enclosure. The front cover sheet includes a first joining edge and a cover piece, whereas the rear cover sheet includes a cover assembly corresponding to the cover piece. The flexible enclosure includes a second joining edge and by engaging the first joining edge with the second joining edge, the front cover sheet and the flexible enclosure are fixed. Besides, the containing structure further includes a holding portion. Under a contained state, the holding portion is used to contain smaller objectives; whereas, in an unfolded state, in addition to using the flexible enclosure to contain larger objectives, the holding portion can be also used to contain smaller objectives. The present invention can be also applied to a piece of clothing combined with a bag unit or other flexible enclosure.

Abstract: A mobile storage unit is disclosed. The mobile storage unit includes a rigid exo-skeletal frame and a flexible storage bag that couples to the rigid exo-skeletal frame while within an open storage region framed by the exo-skeletal frame. The mobile storage unit also includes a top seat portion and stabilizing features that extend and retract from the rigid exo-skeletal frame to support the mobile storage unit in the upright position. The mobile storage unit can also include a monitoring device for transmitting signals that are used to determine the location of the mobile storage unit.

Abstract: A protective case for a portable device having a touch screen is constructed from a back frame, a front frame and a stretchable cover. The back frame receives the device through an open front and the stretchable cover is stretched over the back frame and the device. A portion of the cover stretches over the back frame and device such that the device is securely held in the back frame. A front frame with a transparent screen protector that allows the touch screen of the portable device to be used while the device is fully enclosed in the case is removably coupled to the back frame with grasping protrusions or arms that connect to mounting portions on the back frame that extend through openings in the stretchable cover.

Abstract: Provided is an inner lining for backpacks or handbags. The inner lining has a receiving space constructed by folding and stitching at least one waterproof fabric. Multiple seam lines on the inner lining are covered by waterproof tapes. The inner lining may prevent the rainwater permeating into the receiving space through the seam lines. Items may be protected from the wet in the receiving space of the inner lining. Further provided is a waterproof bag having the inner lining. The inner lining is sewed in an outer bag to construct the waterproof bag. Multiple seam lines between the outer bag and the inner lining are also covered by waterproof tapes. The inner lining and the waterproof bag having the inner lining provide more convenience and safety for users in rainy days.

Abstract: A hair iron has at least one heat transfer element that includes a substrate and a coating deposited on the substrate, the coating having a composition with at least 50 percent by mass of titanium and zirconium, a heating element, and an insulated grip region.

Abstract: The comb includes a shaft with teeth extending therefrom, preferably including fine teeth and coarse teeth. A light is coupled to the comb. The light is preferably in the form of an LED and carried on a light module which is removably attachable to the shaft of the comb. This light module includes a circuit therein, a source of electric power typically in the form of a battery and a switch. The switch can be manipulated to cause power from the battery to pass through the circuit to the LED (or other light) to cause light to shine from the comb. The light module is removably attachable to facilitate cleaning of other portions of the comb, such as by submersion in a cleaning liquid.

Abstract: A hair removal device using, or for use in combination with, a wax-strip configured to remove hair from skin. The device includes: a user holding member including a housing or chassis having a wax-strip removal mechanism actuator, the housing having a bottom surface configured for engaging with the skin; a wax-strip engagement mechanism for removable engagement with the wax-strip; a wax-strip removal mechanism including a wax-strip removal acceleration arrangement; and a wax-strip pressing mechanism. The wax-strip pressing mechanism presses the wax-strip to the user's skin by way of a pressing member and also distances the pressing member from the skin during operation of the device, to help mitigate shear and/or rubbing on the skin.

Abstract: A nail cutting device is shown that includes a rotatable cutting portion that is in a substantially fixed relationship with a rotatable illuminating element to allow the nail cutting device to provide illumination onto a nail that is being cut or shaped.

Abstract: A universal nail polish storage and display assembly includes a case having a base and a cover interconnected thereto, the cover having a display frame formed therethrough. A storage unit comprising a storage medium at least partially formed of a resilient material is mounted in the case. The storage medium includes a plurality of storage compartments each dimensioned to receive a different one of a plurality of nail polish containers therein. Each storage compartment has at least one slot disposed in communication therewith such that a portion of a nail polish container which may not fit into the storage compartment itself may be at least partially inserted into the slot such that the remainder of the container fits into the storage compartment. The assembly may be utilized to store and display a plurality of different nail polish containers in an upright operative orientation.

Abstract: Cosmetics packaging and applicators including a gel based tip are described. Gel applicators may or may not be provided with a through-hole. In various embodiments, the gel may be a stand-alone gel or may be encapsulated in a membrane. The gel applicator provides a soft feel and may have cooling effect as well. In some embodiments, the applicator is mounted to a platform or a hollow insert and coupled to a container housing the cosmetics product.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a hand-operated input device on a hand. The apparatus includes a first mounting member with a hoop-shaped body and a second mounting member with a semi-circular shaped body. At first and second ends, the second mounting member is rigidly coupled at spaced-apart first and second locations to the first mounting member. A device support is rigidly coupled to the first mounting member, and the device support is adapted for supporting a hand-operated input device. The first mounting member contacts the hand at first and second contact points, and the second mounting member contacts the hand at a third contact point. The first and second contact points are located on opposite sides of the hand between the knuckles and the heel of the hand, and the third contact point is on an opposite side of the hand from the first contact point and proximate to the heel.

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses for supporting electronic devices are described. Such systems and apparatuses provide significant adaptability to position an electronic device in commonly used locations by using an interface that is readily provided in virtually any location. Furthermore, the systems and apparatuses described herein include cradles that adaptable to a wide array of electronic device dimensions, including width and depth or thickness.

Abstract: A portable radio microphone and body worn camera holder is configured to join a police and security radio microphone and a police worn body camera to a uniform via the ballistic vest's trauma plate pocket. The microphone holder has a back panel connected to rounded top portion. The rounded top portion further has a first microphone attachment section. A first incline portion is smoothly connected to the rounded top portion. A first front panel is smoothly connected to the first incline portion. The first front panel further comprises a camera attachment section. A second incline portion is smoothly connected to the first front panel. The first front panel and the second incline portion further have a police worn body camera attachment portion. A second front panel is smoothly connected to the second incline portion.

Abstract: As disclosed herein, a contemplated retractable brush includes: a brush shell, comprising a brush head, a plurality of bristle openings, a mateable lock fixture and a brush handle; a bristle release mechanism, comprising a locking mechanism, a bristle extender mechanism and an engagement mechanism, wherein the engagement mechanism is operatively coupled to the locking mechanism and the bristle extender mechanism; a first bristle platform, comprising a first plurality of bristles; a second bristle platform, comprising a second plurality of bristles; wherein the first bristle platform and the second bristle platform are operatively coupled with the bristle extender mechanism; and wherein the first and the second plurality of bristles are extended through the plurality of bristle openings to outside of the brush shell when the engagement mechanism and the locking mechanism are operatively engaged.

Abstract: A push broom head includes a body including an upper face, a lower face, a front face, a rear face, and left and right end faces. A plurality of sweeper bristles project outwardly from the lower face. A handle mounting block portion includes a socket adapted to receive an associated broom handle. The handle mounting block portion is located between left and right portions of the body. The body includes a plurality of open pockets defined in the upper face on both the left and right portions of the body. Each of the pockets opens through the upper face of the body and comprises a bottom wall. Each of the pockets defines a depth between the upper face of the body and the respective bottom wall.

Abstract: This disclosure provides a smart toothbrush, including a head, a front handle, a grip handle, a turning unit, a drying unit, a testing, unit, a power unit and a charge base. The front handle of the toothbrush using the disclosed device can revolve automatically by applying water on the bristles. The toothbrush resets automatically after being aired and dried for convenient and clean application for the next use.

Abstract: A collapsible table has first and second tabletop portions. A pair of first side rails is attached to the first tabletop portion, and a pair of second side rails is attached to the second tabletop portion. First and second leg assemblies are pivotally connected between the first and second side rails. A pair of hinges rotatably connect the first side rails to the second side rails along a hinge axis. A serpentine central support tube includes one or more first tubular portions disposed to one side of the hinge axis toward the first tabletop portion, and one or more second tubular portions disposed to an opposing side of the hinge axis toward the second tabletop portion. The one or more first tubular portions support the first tabletop portion at its inner edge, and the one or more second tubular portions support the second tabletop portion at its inner edge.

Abstract: A table assembly comprising a leg assembly including a first elongated member parallel to a substantially vertical extension axis and a second elongated member supported by the first member for sliding motion along the extension axis between extended and retracted positions, a load compensator including a spring supported by the second elongated member and operatively coupled to the first elongated member, a table top supported by the second member and a locking assembly including a lock housing supported by the leg assembly and forming a lock housing passageway that passes there through, a first coupler supported by the leg assembly and including an elongated central portion that extends through the lock housing passageway and a locking member moveable between a locked position wherein the locking member is operably linked to the first coupler to restrict movement and an unlocked position wherein the locking member is de-linked from the first coupler.

Abstract: A foldable shelf may comprise a main body having two vertical connecting rods respectively located at middle portions of two sides of the main body at corresponding positions, and four vertical legs are respectively assembled at four corners of the main body to support at least two pairs of rotatable shelf boards therebetween. Each of the connecting rods has a connecting member coupled on an inner edge thereof, and each of the connecting members is pivotally connected to a V-shaped connecting rib. The foldable shelf further comprises two operating ribs at the top portion thereof. A user can pull the operating ribs upwardly to drive the pairs of the shelf boards to be folded together and drive the legs at two lateral sides of the main body to move toward each other, thus completing the folding process easily and quickly.