Abstract: Hybrid tomato variety ‘H1997’ is described. The tomato variety is a ground-culture hybrid processing tomato variety suitable for machine harvest and is adaptable to the climactic conditions of regions such as California, USA. Tomato plants of ‘H1997’ are resistant to verticillium wilt race 1, three known races of fusarium wilt, root knot nematode, bacterial speck race 0, and tomato spotted wilt virus. Red ripe fruit are large for a processing tomato and have a very good internal color red.

Abstract: A milking system includes a milking device, a milk line, and a sampling and analysis device for the milk that includes a control unit, a tape mover to move and unwind a tape wound on a tape reel and with a base material with reagent pads, that detect a substance in the sample, and a dosing device to provide the sample onto a reagent pad, and a sensor to detect radiation from said reagent pad, and to analyse the detected radiation to indicate a presence or concentration of said substance. The reagent pad is facing downward during provision of the sample. In this way, the chance of excess liquid falling from the reagent, and possibly onto a camera, is reduced. Smaller reagent pads may be used, it reduces the chance of supplied liquid spilling over to a neighbouring reagent pad, the measures preventing this spilling may be limited, and it is easier to suck away excess fluid.

Abstract: A teatcup to be attached to the teat of an animal and a teatcup liner (1) for mounting in a shell (2) of the teatcup, where the teatcup liner includes a barrel (3) enclosing an inner space (7) for receiving the teat. The barrel includes a lower section (3?) and an upper section (3?) adjoining the lower section. The barrel has a polygonal cross-sectional shape, defining a plurality of side portions (18) and a plurality of corner portions (19), each connecting two of the side portions. Each side portion has a side wall thickness at a center line of the side portion. Each corner portion has a corner wall thickness at a center line of the corner portion. The corner wall thickness is thicker than the side wall thickness along the barrel. The corner wall thickness decreases along the upper section of the barrel towards the lower section.

Abstract: A litter box assembly comprising a litter section conjoined with a tool section for storage of one or more litter box tools.

Abstract: A cage assembly can have at least one enclosure. Each enclosure can have a floor defining a floor area having a major dimension and a cover having a bottom surface. A spacing between the bottom surface of the cover and the floor can define a cage height. At least one sidewall can extend between the floor and the cover. A ratio of the cage height to the major dimension of the floor area of each enclosure of the at least one enclosure can be at least 0.70.

Abstract: A swivel assembly can have a longitudinal axis. The swivel assembly can have an upper portion and a lower portion that is rotationally coupled to the upper portion. The lower portion can have a connector configured to securely engage a cable. The lower portion can be configured to remain in electrical communication with the upper portion as the lower portion rotates with respect to the upper portion. A motor can be disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion and configured to selectively rotate the lower portion. A sensor can be configured to detect torsion in the cable. A controller can be in communication with the sensor and the motor. Upon receiving a signal from the sensor indicating a threshold torsion in the cable, the controller can be configured to cause the motor to rotate in a direction corresponding to a direction of the torsion in the cable.

Abstract: A disposable animal cage which can be used in a ventilated or static caging rack system includes a cage top and a cage base. Any corner or edge present in the interior of the cage base or the cage top that is accessible to an animal that can be contained in the cage is defined by surfaces having a conical section which is non-circular to prevent gnawing of the cage. A perforation section including a plurality of small apertures adjacent to one another can be formed in the cage for ventilation and prevention of gnawing by the animals.

Abstract: A method of implementing a lightweight, electronic ear tag allows for location tracking and geo-fencing tasks of a herd animal. A location-tracking device tracks spatial-positioning data of electronic ear tag. A communication node relays the spatial-positioning data to at least one remote server hosting an owner account that allows the owner to interact with the electronic ear tag. Accordingly, the spatial-positioning data is relayed from a low-power transceiver to a low-power gateway, if the electronic ear tag is in communication with the communication node. If the electronic ear tag is not in communication with the communication node, the spatial-positioning data is archived and store locally in the electronic ear tag. A high-power gateway provided at the communication node relays the spatial-positioning data to the remote server. Accordingly, the remote server generates a graphical representation of the spatial-positioning data, which is finally displayed on a personal computing device of the owner.

Abstract: An electronic ear tag allows an individual to track a herd animal. Further, the electronic ear tag is an ultra-low power, and lightweight tag that runs only when needed. The electronic ear tag includes a substrate, a microcontroller, a rechargeable battery, a wireless communication module, a global positioning system (GPS) module, and a solar panel. The substrate is a circuit board used to support the electronic components of the present invention. The microcontroller is used to manage and control the electronic components of the electronic ear tag. The rechargeable battery is the main power source of the electronic ear tag. The wireless communication module allows the electronic ear tag to communicate with a central network. The GPS module allows the electronic ear tag to communicate with a GPS satellite. The solar panel converts solar energy into electrical energy used to charge the rechargeable battery.

Abstract: An animal tag that contains first and second three-dimensional accelerometers and a processing unit, where the first accelerometer registers a first acceleration vector describing a spatial movement of a first position of the animal tag, and the second accelerometer registers a second acceleration vector describing a spatial movement of a second position of the animal tag, the second position separated from the first position by a distance, and the processing unit receives the first and second acceleration vectors and based thereon determines at least one behavior-related parameter for an animal carrying the animal tag in the form of inclination angle(s) (?, ?, ?) of the animal tag relative to a reference frame external to the animal tag, and/or an elevation of the animal tag relative to a reference level external to the animal tag.

Abstract: A control method for barking prohibition in a barking prohibition piece.

Abstract: A toy assembly; the toy assembly includes a stake and a receptacle. The receptacle is a bag which removably houses at least one pet toy. The toy assembly is capable of entertaining pets, particularly dogs, and provides a way for dogs to play by themselves if an owner/caretaker cannot play at a given time.

Abstract: The invention relates to an accessory for removing and cleaning up the excrement of pets such as dogs or cats, or for cleaning up the urine, oestrus secretions or vomit of the animal, which accessory consists of a plastic bag of the type commonly used for rubbish, provided with a cover of absorbent paper securely connected to the bag, covering two thirds thereof starting from the end that forms the bottom; designed so that, in the event that the animal finally defecates, the user places the bag on the hand with the paper cover facing the outside, removes the excrement and simultaneously cleans the affected area superficially, using the bag with its absorbent paper and, finally, turns the bag inside out using the other hand, closes the bag and deposits it in a litter bin or the like.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of a system for monitoring a dog comprise a control unit including a transmitter configured to transmit periodic signals and a collar unit including a receiver configured to receive the periodic signals from the transmitter. The periodic signals comprise individual signals having different power levels such that the individual signals travel different distances depending on their respective power levels. The different power levels may comprise a high-power level, a medium-power level, a low-power level, and a minimum power level. The system determines a distance between the collar unit and the control unit by determining which of the individual signals is received by the collar unit. Systems and methods of training dogs and monitoring the distance between a dog and a person also are provided.

Abstract: A multi-function leash is described including an attachment mechanism with a gated eye secured to a distal end of the leash, allowing the attachment mechanism to be attached in a slideable manner around the leash to form at least one loop, with its travel along the leash restrained by one or more sliding stops that are wider than the gated eye. One of the sliding stops may allow another loop to be formed by drawing the leash through the stop, and another sliding stop may maintain a position along the length of material via an actuator. The leash is configured to provide a sliding loop with a maximum limit and a minimum limit, a sliding loop with a maximum limit and no minimum limit, and various harness configurations, by attaching the attachment mechanism at different locations along the length of material and between different ones of the sliding stops.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an alert method and device in a pet pulling piece, which comprises: when the tension data value of the pet pulling leash is at a security level, enabling a security level alert mode including indicator light alert in which the indicator light emits in green; when the tension data value of the pet pulling leash is at an alarm level, enabling an alarm alert mode including a combination of indicator light, vibration, and sound in which the indicator light emits in yellow, the sound is soft, and the vibration is moderate; and when the tension data value of the pet pulling leash is at a danger level, enabling a danger alert mode including a combination of indicator light, vibration, and sound in which the indicator light emits in red, the sound is urgent, and the vibration is intense, while sending an ultrasound alarm to the pet.

Abstract: A rearing place management device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a photographing unit for photographing a rearing place; a control unit for detecting abnormal signs in the rearing place by comparing behavior patterns in image data obtained by the photographing unit with behavior patterns in normal image data; and a communication unit for transmitting the abnormal signs, wherein the control unit extracts a region of interest including the abnormal signs from the obtained image data, transmits information on the region of interest to the photographing unit, receives, from the photographing unit, image data obtained by photographing the region of interest, and extracts an abnormal region which is narrower than the region of interest from the behavior patterns in the image data of the region of interest.

Abstract: It's a system (10) intended for the registration of pets and respective identification means (20) presented in the form of a TAG (21); such pet registration system (10) comprising a Web and Mobile—Android and IOS technology platform (30) for use in mobile devices (Ap) in general and provided with an interface (31) with means to register general information (I1) such as the pet name, breed, size, weight, age, particular characteristics such as spots and the like in the database, in addition to specific information (I2) such as the life history, vaccination history, estrous cycles, surgeries, allergies, controlled medicines, wormers, severe diseases, among others, in addition to basic tutor information (I3) indicating the type of contact to be employed or not in cases of losses or escapes of his/her pet such as, for example, communication via site or application, chat, SMS messages, Whatsapp, Telegram, e-mail, Messenger or Skype.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a bird feeder moveable from a first position to a second position. The bird feeder is preferably comprised of a seed tube for holding a substance, a seed tray having openings to receive and provide access to the substance, a shroud surrounding and protecting both the seed tube and seed tray and a cover secured to an upper end of the shroud. The bird feeder is also preferably comprised of a positioning mechanism to move the bird feeder from the first position, where access to the substance is provided, and the second position, where access to the substance is prevented.

Abstract: Methods, uses, and compositions for manipulating genomic DNA. Some of the embodiments of the invention provide for making a founder animal that is completely free of all unplanned genetic modifications. Some embodiments are directed to removing genetic faults in established breeds without making other alterations to the genome. Other embodiments are directed to particular tools or processes such as TALENs or CRISPR with a preferred truncation. One embodiment involves introducing a targeted targeting endonuclease system and a HDR template into a cell (optionally with a mismatch in the binding of the targeting endonuclease and the targeted site). Another embodiment includes processes of making a genetically modified livestock animal comprising a genome that comprises inactivation of a neuroendocrine gene selective for sexual maturation, with the inactivation of the gene preventing the animal from becoming sexually mature.

Abstract: The invention provides an animal model for hepatocellular carcinoma and uses thereof. The genome of the animal model includes a hepatitis B virus genome and a single set of endogenous miR-122 that is partially deleted. Due to the early and high incidence of spontaneous hepatocellular carcinoma in the animal model and its abnormal fat metabolism, the animal model can be used to screen candidate agents for prevention or treatment of hepatitis B virus and hepatocellular carcinoma or other diseases or to develop uses for diagnosis and prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatus for sorting undesired marine species during trawling, provides a pliable grid when the trawl net is pulled from the water and wound tightly on the net reel, and when the trawl is deployed in the water, the apparatus is fixed into place inside the trawl and holding its shape with consistent grid spacing. Marine species sorting apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes grid, back straps, and lead ring. Grid includes a plurality of bars surrounded by grid frame. Grid frame is attached to lead ring at an angle using terminal couplers. Lead ring supports grid and secures marine species sorting apparatus in trawl webbing referred to as the extension.

Abstract: A fishing reel includes a support member, a supported member, and a seal member. The support member includes a support hole. The supported member includes a supported portion that is disposed inside the support hole, and an inclined portion that is disposed outside the support hole and is formed so that an outer diameter decreases toward the support hole. The seal member is elastically deformable. The seal member is disposed in contact with an end face around the support hole and an outer peripheral surface of the inclined portion.

Abstract: An illustrated view of an exemplary bait storage device for transporting and storing bait scent products and power bait. The bait storage device is useful for providing an effective mean of storing and transporting fishing bait, such as pre-packaged bait scent products, power baits, etc. Also, the bait storage device provides improved organization and convenience by ensuring that baits are readily accessible when needed and/or wanted. The bait storage device is also transportable.

Abstract: A fishing lure storage and organization system comprises multiple cards that are hingedly fitted in a fishing tackle box to segregate crankbaits, spoons and hooks. The cards have incrementally spaced-apart niches at the top edge. The niches organizationally retain a primary hook of a spoon or crankbait. The card also has tapered card-holes disposed in a vertical arrangement. A spacer extends perpendicularly from the card, providing separation between cards. An axle extends laterally from the bottom sidewall of card to mate with holes in the sidewall of tackle box, allowing the card to swivel inside tackle box for viewing and easy access to lures. Partitions segregate the lures on card. Partitions have flat surfaces with parallel flanges that detachably couple to tapered holes in the card. A tapered dovetail junction and a separated dovetail junction on the card slidably mate with corresponding tapered partitions to create a snug fit therebetween.

Abstract: Provided is a fishing assist system configured to present various types of information on a catch to a fisher in association with actual catches, to thereby enable even an inexperienced fisher to easily acquire a fishing method leading to a catch. The fishing assist system includes: a fishing information distribution server configured to collect various types of fishing information from a fisher being a user and to distribute the fishing assist information to a user; a sensing device configured to be cast into water together with a rig to collect various types of fishing information; and a fishing assist program configured to enable communication between the user and the fishing information distribution server.

Abstract: A disposable snail trap apparatus for removing snails from gardens includes a trap body. The trap body comprises a cylindrical sidewall having an open bottom edge and a hemispherical roof defining a trap inside. The sidewall has a plurality of door slots extending through to the trap inside. Each door slot extends from the bottom edge towards the roof. An interior surface of the trap body is textured. A plurality of overhangs is coupled to the trap body. The plurality of overhangs is coupled to the sidewall above the plurality of door slots to cast shadows and draw snails into the trap. The snails then climb the interior surface of the trap body and the apparatus may be removed and disposed.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to devices for controlling pests, and, more specifically, to devices for monitoring and communicating the presence of pests, and eliminating pests. The pest control system comprises a frame configured to be removeably positioned in a pest control station, a panel pivotally coupled to the frame, and pest control device positioned in the frame.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a lighting device for reducing bird strikes and a method for reducing bird strikes in a wind farm. The lighting device includes an illuminator, and the illuminator emits red light with a wavelength of 620-750 mm. In the present disclosure, the red light with a wavelength of 620-750 mm is used as a light source of the lighting device to reduce the attraction to birds; therefore, strikes of birds on the position of the lighting device can be reduced, overcoming a longstanding technical prejudice that people have generally accepted that blue light is used as a light source for reducing bird strikes because the red light is easy to attract birds, which are too sensitive to the blue light to be attracted easily.

Abstract: A ladder stand includes a ladder portion, a platform on the ladder portion, and a plurality of support straps to hold the ladder stand against a support structure. The plurality of support straps may include upper support straps that are each connected to the ladder stand, wrap partially around the tree, and connect to each other with a connecting device, to position the tree between the ladder stand and the straps. The platform may include a blade element positioned to press against the tree when the support straps are tightened against the tree. A method of installing a ladder stand may include connecting ends of the upper support straps to each other after passing the ends around an obstruction on the tree. A user may pull on other ends of the straps to draw the straps upward along the tree until they are approximately level with the blade element.

Abstract: A tree stand includes an activity rail assembly rotatably attached to a chair. The activity rail assembly is rotatable among a first stowed position in which the activity rail assembly is oriented upright, a second stowed position in which the activity rail assembly is oriented downwardly, and one or more deployed positions between the first stowed position and the second stowed position. The activity rail assembly is extendable and retractable between a first position and a second position, wherein when the activity rail assembly is in the first position, a horizontal activity rail portion is closer to the chair than when the activity rail assembly is in the second position. The tree stand may further include a platform to support the chair, and, optionally, a ladder portion to support the platform.

Abstract: A hunting blind, components thereof, and associated methods. The blind includes a window or door comprising a closure that when open defines an opening for seeing out of the blind and/or providing ingress and egress for an interior of the blind. The closure comprises first and second closure strips and a slider movable along the closure strips to open and close the opening. The first closure strip includes a first rib having a longitudinal axis extending along a length of the first closure strip. The second closure strip includes a first channel having a longitudinal axis extending lengthwise of the second closure strip.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a decoy apparatus comprising: a body (or structure) shaped to resemble at least a portion of an animal resting on water and a weighted member operationally attached to a motor such that the weight can be redistributed so cause the decoy apparatus to move to a feeding position in which a portion of the decoy body, preferable the head portion, is tipped under the waterline and the opposing portion is raised in the air.

Abstract: A decoy buoy for holding a plurality of waterfowl decoys that comprises a central hub with at least three arms comprising mounting holes generally equally spaced along the arms. The mounting holes are further adapted for mounting a waterfowl decoy and/or an anchoring device to prevent the decoy buoy from floating away while in the water. The decoy buy further being constructed from two sections and joined with hinges that provide both a folding configuration and an unfolded stable semi-rigid configuration adapted for placement upon or near the surface of water.

Abstract: Various embodiments relate generally to computer vision and automation to autonomously identify and deliver for application a treatment to an object among other objects, data science and data analysis, including machine learning, deep learning, and other disciplines of computer-based artificial intelligence to facilitate identification and treatment of objects, and robotics and mobility technologies to navigate a delivery system, more specifically, to an agricultural delivery system configured to identify and apply, for example, an agricultural treatment to an identified agricultural object.

Abstract: Various embodiments relate generally to computer vision and automation to autonomously identify and deliver for application a treatment to an object among other objects, data science and data analysis, including machine learning, deep learning, and other disciplines of computer-based artificial intelligence to facilitate identification and treatment of objects, and robotics and mobility technologies to navigate a delivery system, more specifically, to an agricultural delivery system configured to identify and apply, for example, an agricultural treatment to an identified agricultural object.

Abstract: A method for human sperm vitrification is disclosed, which includes providing liquefied human sperm; having a vitrification medium, where the vitrification medium has (a) a sperm buffer, and (b) a cryoprotectant mixture including a permeable cryoprotectant and a non-permeable cryoprotectant; mixing the liquefied sperm with the vitrification medium; providing a sperm straw and loading the straw with 0.25 to 0.5 mL of the obtained mixture; sealing the straw with heat; and placing the straw vertically in a container with liquid nitrogen to vitrify the mixture. A portable kit is also disclosed, which makes it easy to implement the method. The kit includes a vitrification medium, some straws, a container, usage instructions, among others.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit suitable for preparing a sustained release composition, in particular for preparing a sustained release composition comprising spermatozoa embedded within an alginate matrix.

Abstract: The disclosure provides for insecticidal compositions capable of controlling insects including bed bugs. The disclosure further provides for methods of applying insecticidal compositions described herein to control insects, including bed bug infestations. The disclosure further provides for methods of making insecticidal compositions useful for controlling insects including bed bugs.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions comprising Quorum-Sensing (QS) modulating molecules attached to a surface via a linker. This QS modulator attached surface can then be used to modulate QS, biofilm production, biofilm streamer production and/or virulence factor production. The length of the linker that attaches the QS modulating molecule to the surface as well as the surface coverage density impact QS modulation on surfaces. These QS modulator attached surfaces can be used to treat areas known to contain human pathogens notorious for causing hospital-acquired infections as well as fatal infections that occur outside of health care settings. Other surfaces that can be coated according to embodiments of the invention include abiotic materials, such as intravenous catheters, implants, medical devices, and cooling towers. Preferred microorganisms that can be treated with the compositions of the invention include, but are not limited to S. aureus and/or P. aeruginosa.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an agricultural composition comprising an acetyl coenzyme-A carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitor, one or more sugar alcohols and optionally, one or more auxin herbicides. The present invention is further directed to a method of controlling weeds comprising applying concurrently or sequentially an ACCase inhibitor and one or more sugar alcohols, and optionally one or more auxin herbicides to the weeds or an area in need of weed control.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an agricultural composition comprising a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, one or more sugar alcohols and optionally, one or more auxin herbicides. The present invention is further directed to a method of controlling weeds comprising applying concurrently or sequentially a PPO inhibitor and one or more sugar alcohols, and optionally one or more auxin herbicides to the weeds or an area in need of weed control.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to systems, compositions and methods for providing nutrients, root proliferants, crop protection agents and other crop inputs for a plant. The disclosure also relates to methods for increasing the uptake of a crop active compound into a growing plant.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to herbicidal compositions, and more particularly, herbicidal compositions comprising glyphosate or a salt thereof and a surfactant comprising at least one castor oil triglycidyl ether-based (“COTE-based”) adjuvant.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for repelling coleopterans. The compositions contain a substrate and an anti-aggregation pheremone intermixed within the substrate. The pheremone may be verbenone, methyl salycylate, wintergreen oil, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to agricultural mixtures comprising as active compound I a pesticidal active carboxamide and at least one fungicidal active compound II selected from azoles, strobilurins, carboxamides, carbamates, heterocyclic and various other compounds as defined in the description, in synergistically effective amounts. The invention relates further to methods and use of these mixtures for combating insects, arachnids or nematodes and harmful fungis in and on plants, and for protecting such plants being infested with pests, especially also for protecting seeds.

Abstract: Antimicrobial compositions providing synergistic antimicrobial effects against a variety of bacterial, viral and fungal organisms are described. Methods for using the antimicrobial compositions and products containing the antimicrobial compositions are also described herein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aqueous co-formulation of metalaxyl, which contains: i. metalaxyl, in particular metalaxyl-M; ii. at least one organic pesticide compound PC1, which has a solubility in water of at most 1 g/l at 20° C. and a melting point in the range from 40 to 100° C.; and iii. an aqueous phase containing water and at least one surfactant; wherein the at least one organic pesticide compound PC1 is present in the form of particles suspended in the aqueous phase and where metalaxyl is essentially present dissolved in the aqueous phase and where the surfactant comprises at least one salt of an oligomer or polymer having a plurality of arylsulfonyl groups.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions for attracting insects (e.g., harmful or troublesome insects such as blood-sucking and biting insects, ticks and mites) to an object (e.g., insect trap) or area (e.g., field, orchard). Also disclosed are methods for attracting insects involving treating (or exposing) the object or area with a composition containing compounds described herein (e.g., a pro-fragrance compound selected from the group consisting of an acetal, a ketal, hemiacetal and mixtures thereof, wherein at least one of a parent aldehyde, ketone, or alcohol of the pro-fragrance acetal or ketal is a fragrance compound), and optionally a carrier or carrier material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an agricultural composition comprising a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, one or more fertilizers comprising a sugar alcohol selected from the group consisting of mannitol and sorbitol and optionally, one or more auxin herbicides. The present invention further relates to a method of controlling weeds comprising applying concurrently or sequentially a PPO inhibitor and one or more fertilizers comprising a sugar alcohol selected from the group consisting of mannitol and sorbitol, and optionally one or more auxin herbicides to the weeds or an area in need of weed control.