Abstract: A light funneled illuminated edge decoration assembly includes a support shaft having a bottom end and a top end. Each of a plurality of decorative elements is comprised of a single, unitary panel. The decorative elements each have a central area with an aperture extending therethrough. The support shaft is extendable through the apertures to allow the decorative elements to be stacked on each other. Each of the decorative elements has an upper surface and a lower surface each being non-planer. The decorative elements are each comprised of a fluorescent acrylic material. A retention member is mounted on the support shaft and releasably engages the decorative elements to retain the decorative elements on the support shaft.

Abstract: An article comprises a body having a coating. The coating comprising a eutectic system having a super-lattice of a first fluoride and a second fluoride. The coating includes a glaze on a surface of the coating, the glaze comprising the eutectic system having the super-lattice of the first fluoride and the second fluoride.

Abstract: A test device for analyzing fluid samples. The test device includes a planar support member for supporting reagent pads, and a handle attached to, or for attaching to the planar support member. The test device can be treated with a fluid sample by disposing a fluid sample on the reagent pads. The fluid sample can be disposed onto the reagent pads by the handle, or by dipping the test device into the fluid sample.

Abstract: A method for making a decorative flower is disclosed, including folding a material to form a loop, applying an adhesive within a predetermined distance from at least one of two opposing outermost edges of the material to generate a receptacle region, forming a plurality of cuts along the loop, attaching a first end of the receptacle region to a first end of a holder, wrapping a predetermined length of the receptacle region around the holder to form a base of the decorative flower, and securing the receptacle region in wrapped form to the base is disclosed. The decorative flower generally includes a folded material having a plurality of cuts along a fold thereof and an uncut receptacle region, and a holder attached to the receptacle region. The plurality of cuts form a plurality of loops, and the receptacle region forms a base of the decorative flower conveying custom messages.

Abstract: A method for construction of a realistically formed and moisture resistant prop flower includes the steps of providing a rigid ball supported atop a tubular member; affixing first panel over and about the tubular member and the rigid ball and, thereafter, affixing a number of additional panels over and about the first panel; and shaping at least a portion of each panel into petals by alternately applying heated air and ambient temperature air. Each panel is constructed of a fine, closed-cell foam material. The panel may be formed as a cinquefoil, quatrefoil or trefoil. The rigid ball is constructed of closed-cell extruded polystyrene foam and the tubular member is constructed of polyvinyl chloride. Following the shaping step, the method includes the step of applying a a synthetic rubber coating to exposed areas of the panels.

Abstract: An adjustable shim comprises a stack of plies comprising plastics material reinforced with a three-dimensional fiber layer, the plastics material being flowable under compressive force prior to cure for adjusting the thickness of the shim. The shim may be used to fill a void between two structural components joined together. Also, a method of filling a void between two structural components using the shim. The shim is easy to handle, can easily be laid up to a variety of thicknesses, and is quick to cure (depending on the plastics material used). The three-dimensional fiber layers make the shim highly compressible prior to cure, and provide significant reinforcement to the plastics material of the plies to support compressive stresses in the shim post cure.

Abstract: The instant invention is a photograph display kit. The kit includes a sticker sheet where the upper layer contains a first perforation in a design defining a photograph printing area, and the backing has a second perforation in a different and larger design defining a border area around the photograph. When an image is printed onto the sticker sheet, the border section with corresponding upper layer can be removed from the sticker sheet, and the portion of the upper layer outside of the photograph printing area can be removed so that a photograph with a border remains. A pipe cleaner, acting as a supporting rod, can then be attached to the back of the photograph and inserted into a base so that the photograph is displayed. A series of photographs can be printed and displayed together in such a manner as to create a fanciful bundle of photographs.

Abstract: A method for covering an inanimate object with a botanical article includes the following steps: taking a dried botanical article having at least one surface, applying an adhesive to the surface of the botanical article, affixing the botanical item to the inanimate object by applying the surface covered with the adhesive to the inanimate object, whereby a natural veining and coloring of the botanical article are preserved, and optionally, applying a sealant over the botanical articles covering the inanimate object. The inanimate object may include sculptures, vessels, carvings, and frames. The botanical article may include flower petals, leaves, skeleton leaves, plant skins, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: Absorbable implants for breast surgery that conform to the breast parenchyma and surrounding chest wall have been developed. These implants support newly lifted breast parenchyma, and/or a breast implant. The implants have mechanical properties sufficient to support a reconstructed breast, and allow the in-growth of tissue into the implant as it degrades. The implants have a strength retention profile allowing the support of the breast to be transitioned from the implant to regenerated host tissue, without significant loss of support. Three-dimensional implants for use in minimally invasive mastopexy/breast reconstruction procedures are also described, that confer shape to a patient's breast. These implants are self-reinforced, can be temporarily deformed, implanted in a suitably dissected tissue plane, and resume their preformed three-dimensional shape. The implants are preferably made from poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) and copolymers thereof.

Abstract: A prosthesis is formed by providing a first positive mold portion representation of a prosthetic mating body portion of the user and a second positive mold portion representing a symmetrical body portion of the user. In one instance a front shell portion is molded overtop of the second positive mold portion and a rear shell portion is positioned over the first positive mold portion prior to joining with the application of a finish coating of silicone. In some instances a fabric material is stretched onto one of the mold portions prior to coating the fabric with silicone such that the fabric is impregnated with silicone to define an exterior shell of the prosthesis once cured. In a further instance, a resilient prosthetic shell is formed using negative molds of the prosthetic mating and symmetrical body portions of the user prior to filling the shell with a core material.

Abstract: Improved breast prostheses, methods of making breast prostheses, and methods of treatment using such breast prostheses are described.

Abstract: A skin weft with artificial hair attached thereto to provide various styling options or ample volumetric feeling. The skin weft comprises a stitched portion formed by stitching on a side edge of artificial hair composed of human hair or resin hair, a resin tape welded to a surface of the stitched portion, and a bonding component attached to a surface of the resin tape. The method for manufacturing the skin weft comprises the steps of forming a stitched portion by stitching one side edge of human hair or resin hair arranged and conveyed in the form of a sheet, and supplying a resin tape onto a surface of the stitched portion to form a bonding portion. Automatic mass production is achieved, thereby improving productivity and significantly reducing manufacturing costs. Additional means are unnecessary in the manufacturing process, thereby enabling an unskilled person to perform the task.

Abstract: Styrene-butadiene-based aqueous dispersions and methods for their preparation are described herein. The aqueous dispersions include water and a binder comprising a styrene-butadiene-based copolymer and an epoxysilane. Further described herein are binder formulations and methods for their preparation and use.

Abstract: A sculpting kit is provided that allows individuals with a means to sculpt a three-dimensional object. Components which form the armature of the three-dimensional object may be adfixed to a planar surface as two-dimensional elements. The sculptured object may be prepared by using the kit to lay down successive layers of structures in a pre-arranged fashion.

Abstract: A decorative winged insect includes a single piece of translucent material in the shape of two or more insect wings; a crease in the single piece of translucent material between at least two of the two or more insect wings; and a body adhered to the piece of translucent material near the crease. Methods for making decorative winged insects, instruction documents for making decorative winged insects, and kits for facilitating the creation of decorative winged insects are also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide a carvable pumpkin that is durable, can be reused, that has enhanced fire retardance, and that has a bright brilliant color that remains intact upon carving. These improvements help ensure that the pumpkins are safer, such that if they catch fire, they provide a flame barrier and burn out in about a minute or less. The improvements also help provide brightly colored pumpkins that do not have an external coating or layer of paint that can be easily scratched off. Finally, the improvements help provide pumpkins with a substantially uniform skin or otherwise controllable thickness, which can ease carving and provide an enhanced user experience.

Abstract: Simulated pregnant abdominal systems and associated devices, systems, and methods are provided. The pregnant abdominal systems allow an interactive scenario simulating a routine gestation palpation of a fetal baby, the performance of an external cephalic version as well as the Leopold's Maneuvers. Further, the pregnant abdominal systems can be used as a platform to physically hear the fetus heartbeat using stethoscope, Doppler Instrument, or a Pre-Natal Monitor. Further, in some implementations the fetus can be visualized using standard ultrasound systems.

Abstract: An adjustable implant for volumetrically altering, replacing, expanding, or augmenting tissues is provided. The implant includes an elastomeric membrane enclosed or partially enclosed about a main chamber. The implant is adapted to expand when filled with a fluid. The membrane includes an outer zone formed from at least one outer elastomeric layer; an inner zone formed from at least one inner elastomeric layer; and a middle zone formed from at least one elastomeric middle layer positioned between a least a portion of the outer zone and at least a portion of the inner zone. The implant is configured such that the middle zone is under contraction from a contracting force provided by the outer zone or the inner zone. A method of forming a fluid-filled adjustable implant for volumetrically altering, replacing, expanding, or augmenting tissues is also provided herein.

Abstract: A portable synthetic grass turf assembly—that is capable of being assembled, transported, disassembled, and stored—includes a plurality of synthetic grass module units that can be laid side by side atop a base surface to provide a continuous synthetic grass surface for various activities. Each module unit includes a synthetic grass turf with an infill layer of particulate materials disposed among the synthetic grass ribbons and atop a base sheet. A barrier of synthetic ribbons extends about the perimeter of the module unit to retain the particulate material within the module unit during its transportation and storage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a silicon breast implant which minimizes stress concentration applied thereto after being inserted into the human body to maximize the resistance of same to fatigue-induced rupture, thereby improving the durability of the implant. The breast implant may include an elegant patch-adhesion portion having a thin thickness so as to provide superior overall feel and improve the appearance of the product. Further, the breast implant has a silicon shell defining an outer wall thereof and the patch adhesion portion for closing, from the outside, a hole formed in a bottom surface of the silicon shell so that the patch adhesion portion is increased in strength to maximize adhesion durability, safety of use, and effectiveness. The silicon shell has a uniform overall thickness, and the patch adhesion portion comprises a patch hole through which a patch adheres to a lower end of the silicon shell using an adhesive material.

Abstract: An artificial nail or tip arrangement and method of making the same are provided. The arrangement includes at least one body having a concave lower surface with a shape corresponding to a natural nail. The arrangement also includes an adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface. The first surface adheres to the concave lower surface of the at least one body and the second surface is provided to adhere to the natural nail when applied thereto. The arrangement further includes a removable layer that covers the second surface of the adhesive layer, and which is removable to expose the second surface of the adhesive layer for application to the natural nail. The removable layer is provided with a one or more slits so that a surface of the removable layer remains smooth after adherence of the first surface of the adhesive layer with the concave lower surface of the at least one body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the production of an adhesive bond between (a) the surface of dental subframes based on high-performance polymers, and (b) dental composites, by A at least creating retentive anchoring by means of mechanical pre-treatment of the surface of each subframe; B application of a low viscous, or free-flowing adhesive agent containing a monomer mixture of polymethyl methacrylate, methyl methacrylate, at least one bifunctional methacrylate-based cross-linking monomer, initiator(s), and optionally stabilizers and other additives, including (i) wetting of the surface, (ii) penetration into the depressions which are present, and (iii) formation of a dispersion layer or a film; C at least partially curing the dispersion layer or the film in step B; and D applying a dental composite or an opaque onto the product in step C.

Abstract: Described embodiments are directed toward centrally-opening, leaflet valve devices and systems for transcatheter delivery having a two-piece valve body as well as methods of making and delivering the two-piece valve devices. A transcatheter valve comprises a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The transcatheter valve can further comprise an everted configuration and a non-everted configuration.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis that includes an outer first layer, a middle second layer and an inner third layer. The outer first layer includes a first material that has a first firmness. The first firmness allows for a 20 mm to a 25 mm penetration by a cone penetrometer. The first layer has a shape corresponding to a shape of a breast form. The middle second layer is disposed adjacent to the first layer and includes a second material that has a second firmness that is greater than the first firmness. The inner third layer is disposed adjacent to the second layer opposite from the first layer and includes a third material that has a third firmness that is less than the second firmness.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a body structure for a door or other furniture is provided. A skeletal framework is placed on an uncured artificial stone mix deposited on a release sheet placed on a surface. Liquid structural foam is introduced within the skeletal framework. The skeletal framework is wrapped with the release sheet comprising the uncured artificial stone mix such that the skeletal framework is completely covered with the uncured artificial stone mix. The wrapped skeletal framework is placed in a chamber of a defined volume. The uncured artificial stone mix is compressed by the expanding liquid structural foam and conforms to the internal shape of the chamber. The foaming action generates heat that accelerates curing of the uncured artificial stone mix to create an outer cured artificial stone skin of the body structure. After removal from the chamber, the release sheet is separated and the body structure is polished.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis is formed by providing a core of low density foam, shaping the core in the general form of a breast, and applying an outer layer of resilient skin to an outer side of the core to substantially resemble a breast. The inner side of the core opposite the outer side is shaped for mating engagement with a user. A plurality of interchangeable covers of flexible material are each arranged to releasably span the inner side of the core. Typically, coloring is provided on the outer side to resemble an areola of the breast and a protrusion arranged to resemble a nipple of the breast is releasably adhered to the outer side at various positions relative to the areola.

Abstract: In accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a process of forming a prosthetic device is provided. The process includes forming a dispersion of polymeric nanofibers, a fiberizing polymer, and a solvent, the dispersion having a viscosity of at least about 50,000 cPs. A tubular frame is positioned over a tubular polymeric structure. Nanofibers from the dispersion are electrospun onto the tubular frame to form a prosthetic device. The prosthetic device is heated.

Abstract: An inverted interactive communication system comprising a user and a face element designed to resemble an inverted partial face with an eye portion and a nose portion above the eye portion, but without a mouth or a chin. The face element may be secured to the user's chin such that the user's mouth is above the nose portion. Thus, the face element and the user's mouth appear to form a complete face when the user is in an inverted position. The system may further comprise an electronic device with a camera, such that the electronic device may capture one or more images of the face element and the user's mouth when the user is in the inverted position and transmit such images to a second electronic device.

Abstract: Nano-scale or micro-scale adhesive structures comprising an array of nano-fabricated, pillars, the pillars having coated upon, or having disposed on a working surface thereof, a protein-mimetic, marine-adhesive coating. Methods of fabricating the nano-scale pillars, synthesis of the protein-mimetic coating or wet adhesive and application of the adhesive to the pillars are described.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an adhesive for and a method for bonding artificial plastic teeth to a denture base. The adhesive employs a number of adhesion promoter monomers, dimers or oligomers and a cure package, as well as methyl acetate as a solvent. The method according to the invention includes exposing a plastic tooth to the adhesive and allowing the plastic to soften (not dissolve). The adhesion promoter chains infiltrate the plastic tooth matrix, such that upon curing a secure bond is formed.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods appropriate for use in medical training that include materials that better mimic natural human tissue are disclosed. In one aspect, methods of forming multi-layer tissue simulations are provided. In another aspect, methods of forming a male genitalia model are provided. In another aspects, methods of forming an abdominal surgical wall insert are provided. Devices and systems associated with these methods are also provided.

Abstract: A method of making a craft flower can include the following steps: (i) Providing an adhesive member. This adhesive member can be substantially flat and be kept between two pieces (e.g., sheets) of carrier material. (ii) Removing a top piece of carrier material to expose a top side of the adhesive member. (iii) Providing a strip of material (e.g., fabric, ribbon, paper, plastic, tulle, foil, mylar, film material, etc.) that is sufficiently manipulable so as to be capable of being gathered together. (iv) Wrapping the strip of material around at least the outer portion of the top side of the adhesive member in a desired design and pressing the strip of material onto the adhesive member. Various examples of desired designs are described and illustrated herein.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the manufacture of implants or intermediate products of such implants as well as implants and intermediate products obtained by such process. For example, the disclosed process can be used for the manufacture of breast implants, of implants for the thighs, buttocks and calves.

Abstract: Artificial floral products are provided, and more particularly real touch flowers that feel like real flowers and that have an artificial scent associated with the flower are provided. In particular, the scent is embedded into the flower petals, providing a more lifelike appearance and pleasing smell.

Abstract: Artificial turf has a base layer, a multiplicity of blades fixed in and projecting upward from the base layer, and a mass of damping material on the base layer and through which the blades project. Each of the blades is at least partially formed of a polyester of terephthalic acid made from waste. The polyester is polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), both from waste. The base layer is a flat primary layer, preferably a textile and preferably consists of plastic, a polyolefin and/or a polyester of terephthalic acid, preferably a polyester of terephthalic acid from waste.

Abstract: A fabricated nano-structure includes a substrate, a supporting stalk, a node, and at least two spatular plate portions. The supporting stalk has a first end opposite a second end. The first end of the supporting stalk is connected to the substrate. The supporting stalk has a diameter range of about 50 nanometers to about 2 microns. A node is disposed at the second end of the supporting stalk. At least two spatular plate portions are connected to the node. The at least two spatular plate portions have planar geometries and are radially distributed about the node. The at least two spatular plate portions has a ratio of a maximum plate thickness to a maximum plate length of at most about 1:20. The maximum plate length is measured along a line from a boundary of the spatular plate portion to a centroid of the node. The maximum plate length is at least about 100 nanometers.

Abstract: The Maphbe 1: Artificial Tissue and Joint Replacement System is a method of replicating the physiological function of tissue as described in the claims. The Maphbe 1 is unique because it employs methods of manufacturing needed to successfully combine the different materials needed to replicate tissue.

Abstract: A system and method of manufacturing synthetic construction elements that replaces lumber. A synthetic composition is provided containing cementitious material, synthetic fibers, and low-density particulate material. At least one polymer may be added to improve performance. The density of the synthetic composition is controlled by varying the volume of the low-density particulate material in the mix. Reinforcement elements are provided. The reinforcement elements are preferably pre-stressed or post-stressed in tension. The synthetic compound is molded around the reinforcement elements to form a construction element of a particular shape. The molding of the synthetic material around the reinforcement elements can be a two-step process. In the first step, a first synthetic compound of a high density is molded into a rough form around the reinforcement elements. A second synthetic compound of a lower density and strength is then molded around the rough form to complete the construction element.

Abstract: Pressure-sensitive adhesive based on a mixture of chemically crosslinked polyurethane and at least one hydrocarbon resin, the chemically crosslinked polyurethane being a reaction product of at least one aliphatic or alicyclic polyisocyanate and a combination of at least one polypropylene glycol diol and one polypropylene glycol triol, reacted with one another catalytically in the presence of the at least one hydrocarbon resin, the at least one hydrocarbon resin being a monomer resin of the styrene/?-methylstyrene type.

Abstract: A PU composite and a method of fabricating the same are provided. The fabrication method includes: (a) providing a release paper; (b) coating a fabric layer on the release paper, the fabric layer containing a PU resin, an abrasion resistant, and a colorant; (c) drying the fabric layer; (d) coating a first laminated layer on the fabric layer; (e) drying the first laminated layer; (f) laminating a wet PU foam layer on the first laminated layer; (g) releasing the release paper to form a semi-product; (h) providing a plastic layer, which is of a thermoplastic; (i) coating a second laminated layer on the plastic layer; (j) drying the second laminated layer; and (k) laminating the semi-product of Step (g) on the second laminated layer, so as to form a PU composite. Compared with conventional PU composites, the PU composite of the present invention has better UV resistance, solvent resistance, and abrasion resistance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an artificial breast prosthesis which minimizes stress concentration and to a production method therefor, and more specifically relates to an artificial breast prosthesis which has excellent mechanical properties, superior tactile texture, and excellent safety and efficacy as a breast prosthesis, and also relates to a production method therefor. The artificial breast prosthesis made with the production method of the present invention, comprises a silicone shell which is of the same thickness as the connecting portion and has the same or similar physical properties thereof, and which minimizes the concentration of the stresses sustained after insertion into the body and maximizes resistance to fatigue failure such that durability is improved while at the same time the thinness of the connecting portion provides an outstanding texture to the prosthesis as a whole, and safety and efficiency are improved as stress concentration is minimized.

Abstract: A method for forming a dye sublimation image in a vibrating membrane employed in a musical instrument comprising the steps of: providing an image, digitally prepared or otherwise, consisting of a simulated animal skin or another form of graphic; printing the image on a substrate employing a heat transfer ink dye; joining the substrate with the printed image with a sheet of a gas permeable membrane comprised of bi-axially oriented non-woven polyester fibers having a plurality of surface pores and vibrating and musical note producing capability; applying a combination of heat and pressure to the joined substrate with the printed image and the membrane to cause the individual surface pores to expand to enable the dye to gasify and permeate the surface pores to transfer the image; and, cooling the membrane to enable the surface pores to seal closed and encase the image within the surface of the membrane to protect against delamination and wear when the membrane vibrates which results from the intense and constant

Abstract: Methods of forming decorative elements such as decorative grass, and glitter possessing a unique optical effect from a laminated sheet of optical effect material. The decorative elements have a curl or a crimp set therein to enhance the light-reflecting characteristics of the decorative elements and to provide greater volume of the decorative elements for a given weight of decorative elements.

Abstract: A synthetic ice apparatus and method are provided. In one embodiment, a first layer is molded utilizing a mold of a natural ice form. Additionally, a second layer is coupled to the first layer for providing a rigid backing to the first layer. In another embodiment, a layer is molded utilizing a mold of a natural ice form, where such layer is of a predetermined thickness for providing rigidity.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis that includes an outer first layer, a middle second layer and an inner third layer. The outer first layer includes a first material that has a first firmness. The first firmness allows for a 20 mm to a 25 mm penetration by a cone penetrometer. The first layer has a shape corresponding to a shape of a breast form. The middle second layer is disposed adjacent to the first layer and includes a second material that has a second firmness that is greater than the first firmness. The inner third layer is disposed adjacent to the second layer opposite from the first layer and includes a third material that has a third firmness that is less than the second firmness.

Abstract: An athletic field is constructed using side-by-side conjoined layers of resilient synthetic material placed over a drain blanket and extending to a peripheral trench drain. The primary material construction is a rollable layer approximately 4 feet wide by 200 feet long comprising a dimpled polyethylene core material with bonded top and bottom thin, flexible geotechnic fabric layers. A flange and flap system along one edge receives the opposite edge of the joining strip to bond the laterally adjoining layers together in a shingling or tiered manner to promote drainage and to keep water out of the resilient pliable structure.

Abstract: Methods of forming decorative elements such as decorative grass, and glitter possessing a unique optical effect from a laminated sheet of optical effect material. The decorative elements have a curl or a crimp set therein to enhance the light-reflecting characteristics of the decorative elements and to provide greater volume of the decorative elements for a given weight of decorative elements.

Abstract: Method for the production of a pacifier teat and pacifier teat with a suction section forming a cavity, to which suction section a shaft adjoins, wherein an elastic hollow body having suction section and the shaft is pre-formed in an injection or in a dipping process and opposite wall sections of the pre-formed hollow body are connected with each other in the region of the shaft.

Abstract: A composite fiber having elastomer and method for making the same, and a substrate having the composite fiber and method for making the same are provided. The composite fiber includes a first composition and a second composition. The first composition is thermoplastic non-elastomer, and the second composition is thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The second composition is in an amount of 5 to 70 weight % of the composite fiber. The first composition and the second composition are alternately distributed in a circumference of a cross-section of the composite fiber, and the length of the second composition is less than 50% of the total length of the circumference. The TPE can be dispersed uniformly and increase the adhesion between fibers, and the segmented fiber cross-section thereof further prevents the TPE from becoming too adhesive and affecting the processing during the fabrication of fibers and non-woven fabric substrates.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of artificial nail or tip arrangement and method of making the same can be provided. For example, at least one body can be provided which can have a particular surface with a shape that at least approximately corresponds to a shape of at least one portion of a natural nail. Further, an adhesive layer can be secured to at least one portion of the surface of the body. The adhesive layer can have a first surface which adheres to at least one portion of the particular surface of the body and a second surface which is provided to adhere to an upper surface of the at least one portion of the natural nail when directly applied thereto. Further, a removable layer can be provided which covers at least one section of the second surface of the adhesive layer, and which is removable to expose at least one portion of the second surface of the adhesive layer for an application to the upper surface of the portion of the natural nail.