Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods of identifying and capturing information about items. In this instance, the systems and methods are focused upon fish. Through the use of the disclosed systems and methods, fish can be tagged and/or the image of the fish can be captured. The information about the tagged and/or image-captured fish can be wirelessly communicated to a remote device. As desired, the information specific to the fish can be combined and uploaded into a database with other relevant information, such as location information, temperature readings, latitude, longitude, date, time, and more.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an RFID tag insertion cartridge comprising a hollow needle in which an RFID tag is disposed. The cartridge comprises an optional housing in the form of a shell that is shown transparently. The cartridge comprises a carriage that is movably mounted and to which the hollow needle is attached for withdrawing the needle. Also disclosed herein is a RFID tag insertion tool.

Abstract: A method for treating laminitis (and/or for preventing or treating lameness) in hooved animals, comprising: preparing a medicament comprising a topical anti-inflammatory solution; and applying the medicament to hooves of the animals via an automated animal treatment system. In certain embodiments, the topical anti-inflammatory solution comprises magnesium sulfate, preferably 1.5% to 7.5% magnesium sulfate.

Abstract: A predator dissuading vest is provided for pets and other animals. The vest is configured to employ bristles extending from engagements with the vest to distal ends and spikes as a deterrent to an attack by a predator. Conductors for an electric shock can also be included as an additional predator dissuading component.

Abstract: A size-adjustable animal paw boot and method for donning provides a paw boot that fits over the paw and lower leg portion of a dog. The boot includes a tubular body member having a paw portion with a bottom side, a top side, and a closed end. The paw portion is sized to surround a paw of an animal. The body member also includes a lower leg portion having an open end that surrounds the lower leg of animal. A cable joins to the lower leg portion for wrapping around and fastening the body member to the lower leg of the animal. An adjustable sole overlays the bottom side of the body member, and is fixedly wrappable to reposition along the bottom and top sides of paw portion for accommodating narrow and wide paws. Hook and loop fasteners wrap around the paw to secure the sole to the paw portion.

Abstract: A pet footwear article includes a sole and an upper. The upper is formed at least partly of fabric and having a top edge defining a top opening for receiving a paw of a pet and a lower edge being joined to the sole. A set of elastics bands extend laterally about the upper and provides a compressive force to the upper. The stretchable upper can promote a snug fit of the upper about the paw of the pet. The upper can have a vamp portion and a shaft portion, both of which are stretchable.

Abstract: The invention is a pet toy that has a plush body with small apertures through which a strand of fabric that has individual squeakers of differing tones sewn into individual segments of the fabric strand, and where the apertures are made small enough in the toy body to depress the squeakers as the strand is tugged through. The toy can be played with by a pet alone or has a nylon looped rope handhold that a pet owner or the pet can hold and play tug-of-war while causing multiple squeakers to make noise during the tugging movements or when a pet depresses portions of the toy.

Abstract: A scented insert for use with an animal training aid, toy or device, the insert comprising a substrate having, a microencapsulated scented material thereon, and/or therein, and either one or both of: a substantially scent impermeable coating, wherein the coating substantially prevents release of a scent from the scented material; and at least one detent for engaging with a cognate protrusion or depression of a carrier for the insert

Abstract: A multi-grip handle apparatus for an animal leash or harness includes a tubular handle body having a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening. An annular handle body surface extends between the first end and second end and a central bore extends between the first and second openings. A first cord extends from the first opening, and a second cord extends from the second opening. The first and second cord are secured by a clasp which secures a third cord. The third cord is configured to connect to at least one animal leash, animal collar or animal harness. The handle body surface includes a first grip section laterally adjacent and spaced apart from a second grip section. The central bore contains a filler that prevents the first and second cords from contacting the first and second openings, respectively.

Abstract: A pet grooming station includes an electrically actuated separable coupler mechanically coupled between a tether point and a lead to a collar or a noose. At least one wired or wirelessly coupled pressure sensitive mat is adapted to sense a presence of a person or an animal on the at least one pressure sensitive mat. The electrically actuated separable coupler is in a coupled state when the pressure sensitive mat senses the presence of the person standing on the mat. Or, when the person is no longer standing on the mat, the electrically actuated separable coupler separates. The electronic controls of the station can be programmed to provide a predetermined or selectable time delay in a range of about 0 to 2 seconds before causing the electrically actuate separable coupler to separate. An upgrade kit or modification kit for existing pet grooming stations is also described.

Abstract: A livestock development gauging system is provided. The livestock development gauging system includes a pen, an imaging device and a processing system. The pen defines a livestock containment area. The imaging device is suspended proximate to the livestock containment area and configured to generate images of livestock in the livestock containment area. The processing system is configured to determine a livestock health measurement of the livestock based on an analysis of the images of the livestock.

Abstract: To provide a management apparatus capable of capturing a position of a specific individual satisfying a predetermined condition. A management apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes a control unit. The control unit extracts, on the basis of first information that is generated by a sensor device worn by an individual and is related to a living body of the individual, a specific individual satisfying a predetermined condition, and generates, on the basis of position information related to a position of the specific individual, search information for causing a mobile object to move to the position of the specific individual.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for obtaining information about a farm animal, wherein a device (a) is attached to the head region of an animal, said device containing at least one acceleration sensor by means of which recurring acceleration data is measured, wherein the acceleration data is evaluated using automatic data processing means, and, as an outcome of the evaluation, is indicative of the activities and/or conditions of the animal. The acquired acceleration data is evaluated in order to detect the swallowing processes carried out by the animal.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling movement of a door or other apparatus, such as to provide and restrict access to a chicken coop, including a plurality of input devices, a plurality of output devices, and a microprocessor configured on a circuit board to detect signals from the input devices, process the signals, and based upon predetermined logic generate and transmit output signals to the output devices. One of the input devices is a wireless smart switch remotely controlled by a user, which transmits electric current based upon user input such that when the user input indicates an intention that the apparatus move in a first direction, the switch will transmit electric current, and when the user input indicates an intention that the apparatus move in a second direction, the switch will stop transmitting electric current.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rack (10) for receiving fattening poultry cages, (20) comprising: a frame structure (12), a plurality of levels (14) for receiving a plurality of fattening poultry cages (20), and a plurality of conveying means (16) associated with each of the levels (14). The means of conveyance (16) are arranged in such a way that they transport the cages (20) located in the rack (10) within the respective level (14) to and/or away from a unloading point (30). Further, the invention relates to a fattening poultry cage (20) for arrangement in such a rack (10). Finally, the invention relates to a system of racks (10) and cages (20) according to the invention. The system may comprise an industrial truck (22) with lifting means for removing cages (20) from or feeding cages into the rack (10), the lifting means comprising a plurality of fork carriages (24) arranged vertically one above the other and movable in a vertical direction relative to one another.

Abstract: Provided are a pearl culture material in which at least one selected from the group consisting of a pearl nucleus and a mantle piece is coated with a protein containing a repeating sequence of GXY triplets which may be separated by one or more amino acids, and one or more RGD motifs, and having a polydispersity of less than 20; and a coating composition including the protein.

Abstract: The subject invention provides materials and methods for producing animals with short hair length. In a preferred embodiment, this is accomplished by altering in the animal the nucleotide sequence that encodes the prolactin receptor (PRLR) protein such that a truncated version of the protein is produced. Advantageously, and surprisingly, the truncated protein produced according to the subject invention retains lactogenic functionality, but causes the animal to have a short-hair coat.

Abstract: A nonhuman animal cancer model is described. The animal model includes an animal of the genus Peromyscus and xenograft cancer cells implanted in the animal. Methods for utilizing the animal model can include evaluation of growth and development of cancer cells, as well as evaluation of known and potential cancer treatment therapies. The animal model can be utilized to examine the efficacy of an anticancer therapy at the preclinical stage, can be utilized to screen potential cancer treatments in an individualized cancer treatment protocol, and can be utilized for identification of biomarkers associated with particular cancers and/or particular anticancer therapies, among other beneficial uses.

Abstract: A fishing net assembly includes a magnetic clasp system to releasably connect the net to the pole or handle.

Abstract: A bottle-style reel for bow-fishing and the like provides a retriever bottle that is tipped out of the vertical plane defined by the crank axis and the rotation of interengaging wheels that grip the fishing line and push it into the retriever bottle. In this way the retriever mechanism of the interengaging wheels can be aligned with the bow grip for reduced torque and simplified mounting.

Abstract: A device for rigging a fishing lure having a hollow cylindrical main body with a first tapered end and a second non-tapered end, such that the tapered end is sized to fit snugly on an artificial fishing worm lure. The device has a number of holes distributed around the central portion of the main body to enable the passage of a fishing hook through the lure and device combination. The device may be constructed of plastic, metal, rubber, or a combination of materials. The device may be weighted or have additional embellishments to enhance an angler's fishing success.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a fishing lure includes positioning a feather or fur portion about a mold that approximates a body of a fishing lure. The feather or fur portion is positioned proximal to where a fin of the fishing lure would be. The method includes filling the mold with a flexible material to form the fishing lure body, wherein the flexible material engages the feather or fur portion to encapsulate at least a portion thereof within the fishing lure body and ejecting the completed fishing lure body having feather or fur portions at the position proximal to where a fin of the fishing lure would be. A related fishing lure/bait is also provided.

Abstract: A dual-bearing reel includes a reel body, a spool shaft, a pinion gear, a collar member, a bearing, and a sealing member. The reel body includes a bearing housing. The pinion gear is rotatable about the spool shaft. The collar member is mounted on an outer peripheral surface of the pinion gear. The collar member has a large-diameter portion disposed adjacent to a tooth portion of the pinion gear in a shaft direction, and a small-diameter portion having a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the large-diameter portion. The bearing is housed in the bearing housing and rotatably supports the pinion gear using the collar member. The sealing member is an annular member disposed in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the bearing housing and the outer peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion of the collar member.

Abstract: A hand-held device used for fishing to secure the fishing knot to a hook. Having (4) four holes (2) two rear oval holes of equal size for finger insert support and (2) two smaller front holes of different sizes for hook safety support as the hand pulls to create tension in the fishing line.

Abstract: A portable fishing rod holder is provided with a body that is buoyant and has first and second ends. The first end is constructed of a material that deforms upon contact by an object. A plurality of apertures is provided at the first end, the plurality of apertures include a large portion and a narrow portion that is oriented toward a center point of the body. The second end includes a base dimensioned to support the body in an upright orientation. Fishing rods are inserted into the apertures and are secured by a strap that urges the fishing rods toward the center point of the body. An angler may grasp the shaft of a fishing rod to safely transport multiple fishing rods using one hand. The portable fishing rod holder avoids the hassle of tangled lines, broken tips, or broken guides that occur when transporting multiple rods using one hand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a trap (10) for bed bugs (2) comprising an inner element (20) having an outer surface (24) delimited by a first base (22) and a first top (26), and an outer element (80) being hollow and having a second base (86) and a second top (88) delimiting an inner surface (84). The outer element is positioned around the inner element with the second top adjacent the first top and the second base adjacent the first base, whereby a tapering space (12), tapering towards the first top, is defined between the outer surface of the inner element and the inner surface of the outer element. The tapering space is accessible to bed bugs crawling on the outer surface of the inner element through a base opening defined between the outer surface of the inner element and the second base. An adhesive (6) is provided on at least part of the inner surface of the outer element for adhering to the dorsal side (4) of a bed bug crawling on the outer surface of the inner element.

Abstract: A treatment system for spraying treatment fluid onto plants in a field is described. The treatment system includes a configurable treatment mechanism including an array of nozzles and valve assemblies coupled into manifolds, and manifold assemblies. The nozzle comprises a nozzle housing and an insert assembly contained within the nozzle housing. When coupled, a top casing including a fluid inlet and a bottom casing including at least one fluid outlet form the nozzle housing. The insert assembly comprises at least one nozzle insert to fluidically couple the fluid inlet and the fluid outlets such that fluid entering from the fluid inlet exits the nozzle housing through the fluid outlets.

Abstract: A device for catching rodents has a bottle comprising a generally cylindrical circular opening, an outside of the opening having a plurality of threads and a lid coupled to the plurality of threads, the lid having a first collar defining an opening, the lid further comprising a plurality of protrusions that extend at an acute angle relative to the lid and are oriented to extend toward the center of the bottle.

Abstract: A hunting and wildlife waterfowl decoy apparatus comprising a tubular member and a cord member, wherein said tubular member and said cord member cooperate in order to create a tensional force and a locking mechanism. A waterfowl decoy tubular apparatus for use in keeping a plurality of waterfowl decoy cords in a substantially tight and taught orientation, thereby holding a plurality of decoys in a secure manner and preventing said decoy cords, and thus said decoys, from entangling during transportation or storage.

Abstract: Described are methods of field conditioning cereal crop pollen. A method of the present invention includes collecting fresh pollen and introducing the pollen to field conditioning conditions which regulate pollen moisture content. The field conditioning conditions may include a relative humidity ranging from about 50% to about 100%, a temperature ranging from about ?10-10° C., and an air pressure ranging from about 15 kPa to about 150 kPa. The field conditioning conditions may further include a continuous, adjustable positive or negative air flow and/or and a flow of one or more continuously refreshed, selected gases. The field conditioning conditions may dehydrate the pollen to achieve a pollen moisture content of about 40% to about 58%, such as about 50% to about 57%.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a flexible intrinsically antimicrobial absorbent porosic composite controlling for an effective pore size using removable pore-forming substances and physically incorporated, non-leaching antimicrobials. A flexible intrinsically antimicrobial absorbent porosic composite controlled for an effective pore size composited physically incorporated, high-surface area, non-leaching antimicrobials, optionally in which the physically incorporated non-leaching antimicrobial exposes nanopillars on its surface to enhance antimicrobial activity. A kit that enhances the effectiveness of the intrinsically antimicrobial absorbent porosic composite by storing the composite within an antimicrobial container.

Abstract: Foamable formulations of agriculturally active ingredients are provided, as well as methods for using them. The formulations allow improved delivery active ingredients by the ability to deliver high amounts of active ingredient with a low volume of formulation used.

Abstract: A composition for controlling nematodes contains plant essential oil, and more particularly, geraniol. The composition is derived from natural substances and is thus environmentally friendly, and exhibits superior nematocidal effects without causing phytotoxicity, and thus can be efficiently used as a nematicide.

Abstract: An antimicrobial composition comprising 3-phenyl propanol or 2-methyl 3-phenylpropanol, or mixtures thereof, alone or in combination with an organic acid or salt thereof, or an alcohol, or mixtures thereof. Methods of preserving products and end-use applications for use of the inventive antimicrobial compositions are also provided.

Abstract: Methods and devices for decontaminating agricultural material, which agricultural material may comprise carboxylic acids are disclosed. The methods involve contacting the agricultural material with a sufficient amount of ethylene oxide, at a temperature of between around 15 and 30° C., for a sufficient time so as to disinfect the products. Ethylene oxide sterilization conducted at these temperatures is sufficient to remove microbial contamination, but not sufficient to cause a sufficient quantity of carboxylic acid groups to react with ethylene oxide and form esters. Representative devices include sterilization bags, optionally stored in sterilization cabinets, sealed drums, and pallet-loaded disinfecting chambers, all adapted to safely purge ethylene oxide from the agricultural material after the sterilization. Representative agricultural materials include, but not limited to hemp and marijuana.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fusion protein having a targeting sequence, exosporium protein, or exosporium protein fragment that targets the fusion protein to the exosporium of a recombinant Bacillus cereus family member and an enzyme having serine protease activity, wherein the enzyme having serine protease activity is from Bacillus firmus or is a variant of such enzyme. The present invention also provides a recombinant Bacillus cereus family member that expresses such fusion protein and exosporium fragments derived from such recombinant Bacillus cereus family member. Methods of using such recombinant Bacillus cereus family members or exosporium fragments derived therefrom for nematode control are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions containing the non-salt form of the herbicide fomesafen solubilized with at least one surfactant selected from the group consisting of fatty amine, alkanolamine, fatty amine alkoxylate and alkoxylated quaternary ammonium compounds. Advantages provided by these compositions include higher active ingredient levels, improved cold temperature stability, and enhanced weed control performance.

Abstract: A fungicidal composition comprising a mixture of components (A) and (B), wherein components (A) and (B) are as defined in claim 1, and use of the compositions in agriculture or horticulture for controlling or preventing infestation of plants by phytopathogenic microorganisms, preferably fungi.

Abstract: A fungicidal composition comprising a mixture of components (A) and (B), wherein component (A) is a quinoline-3-carboxamide of formula (I) and component (B) is selected from the group consisting of pydiflumetofen, benzovindiflupyr, difenoconazole, hexaconazole, azoxystrobin, fludioxonil, cyprodinil, fluazinam, isopyrazam, pyroquilon, tricyclazole, chlorothalonil, propiconazole, aminopyrifen, penconazole, prothioconazole, mancozeb, fenpropimorph, fenpropidin, sulfur, and a biofungicide comprising a Bacillus subtilis strain, as well as to use of the compositions in agriculture or horticulture for controlling or preventing infestation of plants by phytopathogenic microorganisms, preferably fungi.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to pesticidal compositions comprising a pesticide, one or more acidifiers and one or more antagonists of the pesticide. The present invention is further directed to methods of controlling weeds by mixing pesticidal compositions comprising a pesticide and one or more acidifiers with one or more antagonists of the pesticide to create a tank mix and applying the tank mix to the weeds or an area in need of weed control.

Abstract: The preparation, composition, and method of use of an antibacterial formulation utilizing tannins, acceptable for agriculture and for use against bacterial and fungicidal diseases in plants. The composition is based on an organic matrix and may be balanced with dispersants, flocculants and humectants, and may be used against a wide range of agricultural bacterial diseases.

Abstract: This invention is related to the use of a volatile antimicrobial compound against pathogens. The volatile antimicrobial compounds provided include certain oxaborole compounds, for example benzoxaboroles. Delivery systems are provided to take advantage of the volatile nature of these antimicrobial compounds. The method and use disclosed can be combined with other volatile compounds.

Abstract: This invention is related to the use of a volatile antimicrobial compound against pathogens. The volatile antimicrobial compounds provided include certain oxaborole compounds, for example benzoxaboroles. Delivery systems are provided to take advantage of the volatile nature of these antimicrobial compounds. The method and use disclosed can be combined with other volatile compounds.

Abstract: Compositions for improving plant health, the compositions comprising at least one water-soluble pesticide and at least one non-herbicidal water-insoluble agrochemical, are described. Also described are processes for preparing the compositions and methods of improving agronomic crop plant health using the compositions.

Abstract: A combination comprising a metal chlorate; and at least another herbicide, a composition comprising the same, a method of use thereof and a kit comprising the same.

Abstract: It has now been discovered that forming a shaped article from a blend of calcium hypochlorite and lime, wherein the lime content is greater than 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the shaped article, the resulting solid shaped article has a favorable dissolution (solubility) profile and the solid shaped article maintains structural integrity during use in an aqueous environment.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method may include inhibiting and/or dispersing a biofilm. The method may include administering a composition to a biofilm on a surface. In some embodiments, the biofilm may include a plurality of microorganisms coupled together. The composition may include a boric acid. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the composition is dissolved in a solvent. In some embodiments, the method may include dispersing the biofilm using the composition. In some embodiments, the method may include dispersing the biofilm by uncoupling at least some of the plurality of microorganisms. In some embodiments, the method may include administering to the surface an antimicrobial treatment.

Abstract: A composition useful for application to plants, seeds or soil to inhibit fungal infections comprising a protein source inoculated with from 5×107 cfu to 5×109 cfu of a Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain per gram of the protein source.

Abstract: Provided herein are Streptomyces isolates, designated MH71 and MH243, cultures thereof, and compositions comprising the same. Also provided are uses of the isolates, cultures and compositions, for example, for treating and preventing infections and diseases caused by or associated with plant pathogen infections, reducing the susceptibility of plants to diseases caused by or associated with plant pathogen infections, and for inhibiting or reducing the growth of pathogens on plants.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a baking pan having a plurality of ribs projecting upward from the bottom surface thereof. The ribs and an outer wall of the pan define a plurality of cells. The ribs serve as a guide to a user pouring batter into the pan, to ensure that the batter is evenly poured in all areas of the pan. The batter can be poured to a point where it almost covers or just covers the top of the ribs. The present disclosure also provides a spatula having a flat shape at one end and a cutting wheel at another end.