Abstract: A pet collar structure includes a collar body and an elastic connecting member. The collar body includes beads, a first magnetic fastener and a second magnetic fastener. The first magnetic fastener and second magnetic fastener are detachably magnetically attracted to each other. The elastic connecting member includes a first sleeve portion and a second sleeve portion. The first sleeve portion sleeves the collar body and is positioned neighboring to the first magnetic fastener. The second sleeve portion sleeves the collar body and is positioned neighboring to the second magnetic fastener. With the coordination of the first magnetic fastener, the second magnetic fastener and the elastic connecting member, the collar body is worn on a neck of a pet. When the pet runs, scratches or shakes, with the elastic extension and elastic retraction of the elastic connecting member, the collar body is kept from falling off, hence achieving wearing stability.

Abstract: A wearable device for moving animals in a pastoral environment from their current location to a more desirable location to defecate or urinate (void), or cueing or training an animal to void when in a desirable location. The device administers a stimulus to a bovine animal to move it away from less desirable locations such as waterways, to more desirable locations, such as areas of carbon-rich soil, areas where previous animals have not voided recently, and excreta catchment areas.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation system includes an electrical stimulation circuit and a controller. The electrical stimulation circuit includes a flyback transformer connected to electrical stimulus outputs, and a switch having a control input. In some instances, a controller is connected to the control input, and generates a stimulus signal. The flyback transformer outputs an electrical stimulus event responsive to the stimulus signal onto the electrical stimulus outputs. In some instances, pulses operate to charge the flyback transformer to a saturation mode. In some further instances, a diode and capacitor arrangement electrically connected at a secondary side of the flyback transformer facilitate delivery of the electrical stimulus event at the electrical stimulus outputs.

Abstract: An animal collar includes a collar portion including a housing portion and a plurality of extension portions. Each extension portion can include an insert having a snap receiver aperture extending through the extension portion, as well as a strap receiver having a strap insertion slot and a snap fitting. The snap fitting includes a cap retention slot and one or more snap extensions positioned to engage an interior circumferential ridge of the snap receiver aperture when the snap fitting is inserted into the snap receiver aperture from the first side. The extension portion further includes a retention cap insertable into the snap receiver aperture from the second side and including at least one cap retention extension mateable with the cap retention slot and at least one cap extension positioned adjacent the one or more snap extensions.

Abstract: A pet care system includes a mobile robot comprising a first communication circuit configured to transmit a search signal through a first communication method and a second communication circuit configured to transmit event occurrence information through a second communication method different from the first communication method. The system includes a wearable device including a sensor configured to transmit a response signal through the first communication method in response to the search signal. The system includes a station comprising an operation dispenser configured to perform a predetermined operation based on the reception of the event occurrence information. The mobile robot further comprises a processor configured to determine a moving direction of the mobile robot based on the response signal received from the wearable device.

Abstract: A beehive frame cover, method, and apparatus for usage thereof, the beehive frame cover having an elongated body portion extending at least to a length of a top bar of a beehive frame and adapted in size and shape to cover at least a portion of the top bar when placed juxtaposed over and parallelly to the top bar, and two arms disposed at opposite ends of the elongated body portion at a distance adapted to accommodate the top bar, the two arms extruding downwardly from the elongated body portion and adapted to engage and grip the top bar at each of respective opposite ends thereof when placed juxtaposed against and laterally to each of the respective opposite ends of the top bar.

Abstract: Provided is test fish handling equipment capable of reliably holding a test fish by preventing damage to the test fish, and a test fish handling method using the test fish handling equipment. The test fish handling equipment includes a holder for holding the test fish, and guiding means for guiding the test fish to the holder together with water. The holder includes a posture maintaining groove for maintaining the test fish in a predetermined posture. At least an inner surface of the posture maintaining groove is made of a flexible material. One end of the guiding means includes a supply port, and the other end includes a discharge port.

Abstract: A water quality adjustment system includes a measurement section which measures the ammonia nitrogen concentration of breeding water in a breeding tank for breeding an aquatic organism, a judgment section which judges whether or not the ammonia nitrogen concentration measured by the measurement section has exceeded a threshold value, and an adjustment section configured such that, when the judgment section judges that the ammonia nitrogen concentration has exceeded the threshold value, the adjustment section performs, as an adjustment operation, at least one of an operation of lowering the temperature of the breeding water, an operation of lowering the pH of the breeding water, and an operation of increasing the salinity concentration of the breeding water.

Abstract: A heater for aquariums comprises a heating element configured to generate an amount of heat for heating an amount of water of an aquarium and a support body configured to support the heating element. In particular, the support body has a support surface configured to support the heating element and a heat exchange surface configured to come into contact with the water to be heated in a dynamic manner to transmit at least a portion of the amount of heat generated by the heating element thereto. The support body is at least partially made of alumina.

Abstract: This invention relates to the engineering of animal cells, preferably mammalian, more preferably rat, that are deficient due to the disruption of tumor suppressor gene(s) or gene product(s). In another aspect, the invention relates to genetically modified rats, as well as the descendants and ancestors of such animals, which are animal models of human cancer and methods of their use.

Abstract: A genetically modified mouse is provided, wherein the mouse expresses an immunoglobulin light chain repertoire characterized by a limited number of light chain variable domains. Mice are provided that express just one or a few immunoglobulin light chain variable domains from a limited repertoire in their germline. Methods for making bispecific antibodies having universal light chains using mice as described herein, including human light chain variable regions, are provided. Methods for making human variable regions suitable for use in multispecific binding proteins, e.g., bispecific antibodies, and host cells are provided. Bispecific antibodies capable of binding first and second antigens are provided, wherein the first and second antigens are separate epitopes of a single protein or separate epitopes on two different proteins are provided.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for enhanced production of immunoglobulin diversity. Specifically, the invention provides compositions and methods for making accessible a B cell receptor repertoire that has not been culled by developmental tolerance mechanisms. The invention also provides transgenic animals, cells, and antibodies resulting from these compositions and methods.

Abstract: Described are transgenic, non-human animals comprising a nucleic acid encoding an immunoglobulin light chain, whereby the immunoglobulin light chain is human, human-like, or humanized. The nucleic acid is provided with a means that renders it resistant to DNA rearrangements and/or somatic hypermutations. In one embodiment, the nucleic acid comprises an expression cassette for the expression of a desired molecule in cells during a certain stage of development in cells developing into mature B cells. Further provided is methods for producing an immunoglobulin from the transgenic, non-human animal.

Abstract: A fishing tackle device including a body configured to be drawn through the water and an attachment point configured to connect to a fishing line from a fishing platform (e.g., a boat, dock, or shoreline). The fishing tackle device further includes a sonar reflector affixed to the body. The sonar reflector is configured to receive sonar waves from and direct sonar waves back toward a transducer of a fish finder on the boat.

Abstract: A fish lure component includes a hook portion having first and second hook members disposed in an opposing arrangement. A biasing member for normally biasing the hook portion in a closed configuration is disposed between the first and second hook members. A vane structure is provided to cause the fish lure component to rotate about an axis thereof during movement through a body of water and along a direction that is generally aligned with the axis. The hook portion is operable between the closed configuration and an open configuration in response to a fish strike on the hook portion.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved fishing guide, specifically the tip top guide style. The guide consists of a single continuous piece of wire, bent in a manner to create a guide foot, guide ring, an elbow where the wires remain parallel after bending away from the vertical guide foot either inwards towards the guide ring, or outwards away from the guide ring, and a barrier on the rear portion of the guide above the guide foot that prevents the line from sliding between the two wires emerging from the guide foot. This protects the line from pinch points that are common in tip top style guides made of a single wire.

Abstract: A reel seat coupling a reel to a rod body of a fishing rod and a fishing rod including the reel seat are provided. The reel seat includes a seat body coupled to the rod body, and movable hood movably coupled to the seat body. The seat body includes a curved surface portion formed between a projecting portion and a bulging portion, and the curved surface portion is arcuately curved so as to effectively deliver a bite signal to index and middle fingers. The movable hood includes a hood portion positioned at an opposite side of the projecting portion in a vertical direction, and an accommodating portion accommodating the projecting portion, thereby preventing the index finger from coming into contact with the hood portion. The movable hood includes a reinforcing cover, and the reinforcing cover reinforces the hood portion and a guide protrusion of the hood portion.

Abstract: The present invention concerns generally with a device for reeling in fishing tackle in a more efficient and convenient way by increasing the rotational speed of reeling in via the proposed pull lever mechanism.

Abstract: A steam sprayer for delivering steam onto and beneath a field surface is provided. The steam sprayer comprises a support frame having a plurality of steam spraying nozzles mounted thereto and oriented substantially downwardly for spraying steam onto and beneath the field surface. At least a steam generator is connected to the steam spraying nozzles for providing steam thereto. A water heating tank is connected to each of the at least a steam generator for providing heated water at a substantially constant pressure thereto. Compressed air is provided to the water heating tank for pressurizing the water heating tank. Power is provided to the water heating tank and each of the at least a steam generator.

Abstract: Implementations are disclosed for a kit for mounting a sensor package to agricultural equipment, robot, etc. In various implementations, the kit includes: a reusable, compressible heat transfer member configured to transfer heat from the sensor package to a thermally conductive surface of the agricultural equipment and a compressive interface configured to couple the sensor package to the agricultural equipment and compress the reusable, compressible heat transfer member between the sensor package and the thermally conductive surface of the agricultural equipment.

Abstract: A window includes: a first transparent panel including an exterior-facing No. 1 surface and an opposing No. 2 surface, a second transparent panel including an interior-facing No. 4 surface and an opposing No. 3 surface, where the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from one another by a gap, where the No. 1 surface includes a pattern having a plurality of markings spaced at the No. 1 surface, where each of the plurality of markings include an abrasion, thereby leaving a visible marking at the No. 1 surface.

Abstract: A system for extracorporeal organ support can include an organ chamber and a cross-circulation circuit. The organ camber can be configured to hold an extracorporeal organ. The cross-circulation circuit be configured to connect the extracorporeal organ and a host organism to maintain the extracorporeal organ by perfusing veno-arterial-venous (V-AV) blood through the extracorporeal organ and the host organism, wherein physiologic stability of the host organism is maintained.

Abstract: A device is for cooling plasma for a center for collecting plasma by plasmapheresis. The device includes a casing with at least one cooling chamber in the its interior. The chamber includes housings for cooling containers. The device also includes a refrigeration system arranged to refrigerate the chamber, and a control system for the refrigeration system. The refrigeration system and the control system are configured to control the temperature inside the device so as to allow the containers to be cooled to at least ?30° C. in 60 minutes or less. The device includes at least two separate chambers contained in the casing, with each of the chambers including housings for bottles of plasma. The refrigeration system is arranged to refrigerate both chambers independently and the control system is configured to control the refrigeration of both chambers separately.

Abstract: A method of making a 3D-printed biomaterial is described. The method includes depositing a hydrogel comprising cells and a cryoprotectant from a 3D printer onto a freezing plate to form a frozen hydrogel filament; depositing additional hydrogel comprising cells and a cryoprotectant from a 3D printer in contact with a previously placed frozen hydrogel filament to form a 3D-printed biomaterial comprising a plurality of frozen hydrogel filaments; and removing the 3D-printed biomaterial from the freezing plate. 3D-printed biomaterials made by the method are also described.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an anti-agglomeration sustained-release inorganic antibacterial material. A carrier of the sustained-release inorganic antibacterial material is a titanate coupling agent and nano-zinc oxide modified phosphate. The sustained-release inorganic antibacterial material further contains an element Ag. The prepared anti-agglomeration sustained-release inorganic antibacterial material has an excellent antibacterial ability.

Abstract: Disclosed is an antimicrobial coating and antimicrobial laminate that can be used on surfaces to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. Spray-on techniques can be used with antimicrobial agents mixed with an air-drying antimicrobial coating and a heated liquid plastic antimicrobial coating. Efficacy of the antimicrobial coating can be monitored by detecting changes in texture, color, opaqueness, fluorescence, and other techniques. Soft plastics and acrylics can be used to suspend the antimicrobial agents to provide better efficacy in the release of antimicrobial agents over time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a plant growth compound system comprised of a compound that can be sprayed on agriculture crops in foliar application and/or applied to agricultural soil. The compound improves plant growth. The system is also comprised of a method of making the compound. The ingredients in the compound are comprised of (but not limited to) monoethanolamine (MEA), tetrahydrofurfurl alcohol (THFA), oleic acid, surapon, water, gluconic acid, pre-dissolved sea salt, fulvic acid, pre-dissolved lecithin, garlic oil, d-limonene, soy oil, canola oil, pre-dissolved alfalfa (preferably in powder form), molasses, and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS).

Abstract: A plant growth compound system comprised of a compound that can be sprayed on agriculture crops in foliar application and/or applied to agricultural soil is disclosed. The compound improves plant growth. The system is also comprised of a method of making the compound. The ingredients in the compound are comprised of (but not limited to) organic sugar cane alcohol, oleic acid, organic sunflower lecithin surfactant, water, gluconic acid, pre-dissolved sea salt, fulvic acid, pre-dissolved lecithin, soy oil, canola oil, pre-dissolved alfalfa (preferably in powder form) and molasses.

Abstract: [1] A flying pest exterminating composition which is used by spraying on flying pests, containing: a surfactant (A); at least one compound (B) selected from an organic acid and an organic acid salt; and water, in which the surfactant (A) contains at least one selected from (A1) a salt of a mono- or diester of an aliphatic alcohol having 5 or more and 18 or less carbon atoms and sulfosuccinic acid, and (A2) a mixture of a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether (a1) and an alkyl glyceryl ether (a2), and [2] a flying pest exterminating spray including a spray container and the flying pest exterminating composition according to [1] filled in the spray container.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method (100) used to produce an attractant composition (120) and to an attractant composition (120) to attract bloodsucking arthropods (31) and/or fruit flies. In this context, a porous substrate is loaded with a buffer system, in which context the buffer system is at least largely completely absorbed by the porous substrate. Subsequently, at least one attractant is introduced into the substrate loaded with the buffer system.

Abstract: The disclosure concerns a formulation comprising an aqueous suspension of a first active compound having a structure and a dispersant, a freezing point depressant, and a buffer or partially neutralized base, such that the pH of the formulation is from about 6 to 11. The formulation comprises particles of the first active compound having a volume-weighted median particle size, as measured by light scattering, of from greater than 0.01 to 20 microns. The formulation may also comprise a viscosity modifier, biocide, antifoam, surfactant, and/or an agriculturally active compound, such as a an acaricide, antimicrobial, fungicide, herbicide, insecticide, molluscicide, or nematocide, or a combination thereof. Also disclosed are agricultural compositions comprising the formulation and methods of using the same.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a water-dispersible granule (and compositions/formulations thereof), comprising a first active compound having a structure a dispersant, and optionally, a dust suppressant.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for promoting the growth of legumes. The composition includes auxin, choline chloride and ?-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The invention also relates to a method for promoting the growth of legumes.

Abstract: The present invention provides a viral infection inhibitor capable of exhibiting an excellent viral infection inhibitory effect. The viral infection inhibitor of the present invention is characterized by including a compound having a salt of a sulfonic acid group and an organic acid, The organic acid preferably has a solubility of 20 g/L or less in water at 25° C., and therefore, the viral infection inhibitor has an excellent viral infection inhibitory effect against both enveloped viruses and non-enveloped viruses, and exhibits the viral infection inhibitory effect against various types of viruses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an agricultural composition that comprises melatonin together with metal ion compounds or metal complexes that improve the catalytic activity of enzymes that are involved in metabolic pathways in the plant system, thus improving productivity and its quality. The present invention further relates to a method for enhancing enzymatic reactions and metabolic pathways in plants in the presence of the present composition. The present agricultural composition further aids in plant growth in terms of crop production, total phenol content, total protein content, plant height, leaf area, reduction in stress symptoms, and nutrient composition.

Abstract: In a novel method and composition of heterodissemination technology, small mammals attracted to a food bait in a dissemination station acquire electrostatically charged acaricide laden microspheres that can he polymeric nano-porous microspheres loaded with one or more chemical acaricides, or calcium or sodium alginate microspheres that encapsulate an entomopathogen. Microspheres loaded with either type of acaricide kill ticks on the small mammals that acquire them, and when shed along small mammal pathways and in their dens, they also kill free-living ticks.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aqueous suspension concentrate composition useful in agriculture to control pests harmful to commercial crops, comprising(i) cyclobutrifluram; (ii) 25 to 125 gram/liter of a vegetable oil; and(iii) 25 to 125 gram/liter of an ethoxylated fatty alcohol.

Abstract: A novel agrochemical formulation comprising adjuvants selected from phenylspirodrimanes and derivatives thereof, and an agrochemical active, A concentrate is also provided suitable for forming the formulation. The phenylspirodrimanes provide adjuvancy in the concentrate and agrochemical formulations. There is also provided a method of making the formulation, and use of said phenylspirodrimanes as adjuvants in agrochemical formulations is also provided. A method of obtaining the diketopiperazines from culturing of Stachybotrys chartarum, strain RKDO1264 is also described. The extracted phenylspirodrimanes may be used in a formulation for treating vegetation to control pests, or seed coating. Alternatively the strain RKDO1264 itself may be used in a seed coating or in a formulation for treating vegetation to control pests.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of cationic porphyrins such as zinc tetra(N-methylpyridyl)porphyrin tetrachloride and tetra(N-methylpyridyl)porphyrin tetrachloride or a mixture thereof, as selective foliar herbicidal agent.

Abstract: COMPOSITION FOR GENERATION OF CHLORINE DIOXIDE FOR USE AS SANITIZER, PATENT FOR THE INVENTION OF A COMPOSITION OF CHEMICAL PRODUCTS, TO BE USED AS A SANITIZING AGENT FOR DISINFECTION OF WATER, SURFACES, EQUIPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTS, GENERATING SOLUTION, COMPOSED OF Sodium Bisulfate—10-60%; Trichlorisocyanuric Acid—5-25%; Magnesium Sulfate—1-10%; Sodium Chlorite—20-60%; and optionally: Polyvinylpyrrolidone; Dichlorisocyanuric Acid; Sodium Chloride; Dyes; Citric acid; Fumaric Acid; Malic Acid; Calcium Chloride. The products can be separated into two or more groups or mixed into a single powder, in the form of a tablet, or aqueous solution. It consists of the high content of Chlorine Dioxide generation, generating 10-30% of Chlorine Dioxide in relation to the mass of the mixture, resulting in facilities and speed in reaching the maximum concentration.

Abstract: A method for treating foul odors. A chemical solution is administered to the area to be treated. The chemical solution includes: potassium iodine, zinc sulfate and magnesium sulfate. In a preferred embodiment the chemical solution is diluted in water and applied to an area needing treatment.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions, systems, and methods for treating plant, aquatic, and/or livestock pathogens. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to activated compositions having metal nanoparticles and/or one or more organic acids for the treatment of harmful plant, aquaculture, or livestock pathogens, and also relates to methods of making and using the compositions.

Abstract: Biofilms may undesirably form upon various surfaces under a range of conditions. Biofilm-resistant articles may comprise a surface subject to biofilm formation that is adapted to contact a liquid at least periodically; and a coating comprising metal nanoparticle agglomerates adhered to at least a portion of the surface. The metal nanoparticle agglomerates may at least partially inhibit formation or proliferation of a biofilm upon the surface of the article.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to genetically modified microorganisms of the genus Paenibacillus, for the improvement of phenotypes of plants, for example nitrogen availability for non-leguminous plants. Included are novel strains of the microorganisms, microbial consortia, and agricultural compositions comprising the same. Furthermore, the disclosure teaches methods of utilizing the described microorganisms, microbial consortia, and agricultural compositions comprising the same, in methods for imparting beneficial properties to target plant species. In particular aspects, the disclosure provides methods of increasing desirable plant traits in agronomically important species, for example nitrogen fixation, utilization, regulation, uptake, acquisition, tolerance, and/or processing in plants.

Abstract: A virucidal composition, a method of its manufacturing, related uses and end-user products are hereby provided. The composition includes a mixture of biologically active substances obtainable from selected fungal strains of Ganoderma lucidum (MUS12, MUS15, MUS18 and MUS23) by culturing the fungi in essentially liquid culture medium in a culture tank or a bioreactor in conditions essentially excluding agitation. The biologically active substances are obtained as a product excreted by mycelium of the above indicated G. lucidum strains and contain secondary metabolites, such as ganoderic acids and their derivatives. The composition has proved efficient in preventing the spread of viral infections. The composition can be used as a disinfecting agent for skin and nonliving surfaces and/or as an ingredient in preparation of personal care products.

Abstract: The invention concerns (i) the use of a red alga extract as nematostatic agent against nematodes and/or as a nematicidal agent against nematodes and (ii) a method for treating soil to promote growth of a plant by reducing nematodes access to the roots of said plant or by eliminating nematodes present in said soil, said method comprising supplying said soil with a red alga extract.

Abstract: The invention relates to a forming socket of a forming and baking machine for manufacturing of edible, biodegradable containers for hot and cold beverages and food. The forming socket (1) of the forming and baking machine, includes a body (2), in which a mold (3) is mounted, whereby a punch (4) is movably positioned in the mold (3). Between the punch (4) and the mold (3) are installed one or more forming elements, above and/or on the sides of which a production waste area (16) is formed. The forming element (15) is an integral or consisting of two arcs, conical or cylindrical ring.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dry powder composition comprising particles of a carrier material coated with a fatty acid glyceride, a dry bakery pre-mix comprising the composition, a method of making the composition and its use to make bakery products.

Abstract: Provided herein is a method of applying a simple all-in-mix method that can produce a sponge cake with improved swelling thereby favorable appearance and texture without impairing the original flavor of the sponge cake by baking a cake dough containing a large number of air bubbles with uniform size and a dough composition for sponge cake suitable for the method. The objective can be achieved by a method of producing a sponge cake, comprising foaming a dough composition comprising hydroxypropyl methylcellulose having a viscosity of 30 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s when measured with a viscometer at 20° C. using a 2% by mass aqueous solution, cereal flour comprising light flour, egg, sugar, an expander, edible oil and water by the all-in-mix method to obtain a cake dough, and baking the cake dough to obtain a sponge cake; and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing a dough, comprising (i) admixing a lactic acid producing microorganism and a propionic acid producing microorganism to flour and water; and (ii) incubating the admixture of step (i) for a first incubation period, wherein the lactic acid producing microorganism produces lactic acid and the propionic acid producing microorganism produces propionic acid, wherein the lactic acid producing microorganism and the propionic acid producing microorganism are capable of growing in a medium consisting of 50% (w/w) flour in water. The present invention also relates to a composition, preferably a starter culture for bakery good production, comprising viable cells of a lactic acid producing microorganism and viable cells of a propionic acid producing microorganism, wherein the lactic acid producing microorganism and the propionic acid producing microorganism are capable of growing in a medium consisting of 50% (w/w) flour in water.