CATALYSTS FOR THE OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION OF ALKANES

This document relates to oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts that include molybdenum, vanadium, and oxygen.

CATALYSTS FOR THE OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION OF ALKANES

This document relates to oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts that include molybdenum, vanadium, and oxygen. 1. An oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising molybdenum , vanadium , and oxygen , wherein:the molar ratio of molybdenum to vanadium in the catalyst is from 1:0.15 to 1:0.75, as determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS),oxygen is present in the catalyst at least in an amount to satisfy the valency of any present metal oxides, andthe amorphous phase of the catalyst is greater than 55 wt. %, as determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD).2. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the amorphous phase is from 55 wt. % to 80 wt. % claim 1 , as determined by XRD.3. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the amorphous phase is from 55 wt. % to 75 wt. % claim 1 , as determined by XRD.4. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst has a 35% conversion temperature from about 300° C. to about 400° C.5. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst has a selectivity to ethylene from 65% to 99%.6. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst is prepared by a method comprising:providing an aqueous mixture comprising molybdenum and vanadium,hydrothermally reacting the mixture to form a precalcined catalyst, andcalcining the precalcined catalyst to form the catalyst.7. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 6 , wherein providing the aqueous mixture comprising molybdenum and vanadium comprises combining an aqueous mixture comprising molybdenum and an aqueous mixture comprising vanadium.8. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 7 , wherein the aqueous mixture comprising molybdenum is prepared from at least (NH)MoO.4HO and a first water.9. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 7 , wherein the aqueous mixture comprising vanadium is prepared from at least VOSO.XHO and a second water.10. An oxidative ...

Cleaning device

A cleaning device 10 suitable, in use, for picking up pet hair and particles, the cleaning device 10 comprising a unitary, elastomeric main body 12 comprising a face 14 that includes an integrally formed wiper blade 24 and an integrally formed channel 26 adjacent the wiper blade 24, wherein the main body portion 12 is manufactured from closed-cell ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). In use, the cleaning device's face 14 can be inverted and moved across a surface to be cleaned. By so doing, the wiper blade 24 lifts hairs and/or other dirt particles off the surface, and the hairs and/or dirt particles are retained and/or accumulated in the channel 26 adjacent the wiper blade 24. Preferably there are a plurality of integrally-formed channels 26 and the main body 12 is manufactured from foamed EVA. The EVA may also contain an anti-bacterial additive.

Face-Down Lounge Chair Apparatus

A face-down lounge chair apparatus for comfortable face-down lounging includes a chair frame and a pair of legs coupled to the chair frame. A covering is coupled to the chair frame and has a face aperture extending from a covering top side through a covering bottom side proximal a head distal portion of the chair frame. A face pad is coupled to the covering top side around a perimeter of the face aperture. A drop-down tray is coupled to the covering. The drop-down tray has a plurality of straps coupled to the covering bottom side proximal the face aperture and a tray body adjustably coupled to the plurality of straps to go from a proximal position adjacent the covering to an extended position in parallel opposition to the covering bottom side.

Cleaning device

Cleaning device made from closed-cell, latex-free elastomer foam

A cleaning device 10 suitable, in use, for picking up pet hair and particles, the cleaning device 10 comprising a unitary, elastomeric main body 12 that includes a face 14 that has an integrally formed wiper blade 24 and an integrally formed channel 26 adjacent the wiper blade 24. The main body portion 12 is manufactured from a closed-cell elastomer foam. In use, the cleaning device's face 14 can be inverted and moved across a surface to be cleaned. By so doing, the wiper blade 24 lifts hairs and/or other dirt particles off the surface, and the hairs and/or dirt particles are retained and/or accumulated in the channel 26 adjacent the wiper blade 24.

Catalysts for the oxidative dehydrogenation of alkanes

This document relates to oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts that include molybdenum, vanadium, and oxygen.

Hydrocarbon aromatization catalyst composition and method of formation

A method for forming a catalyst can comprise: heating a Ge-ZSM-5 zeolite powder at a temperature of 400 to 600° C.; ion-exchanging the heat-treated zeolite powder with an alkali metal and impregnating the heat-treated zeolite powder with noble metal; heating the ion-exchanged, impregnated zeolite powder to a temperature of 250 to 350° C.; mixing the second heat-treated zeolite powder with a solid silica binder and a colloidal silica binder to form a mixture, wherein if the solid silica has a purity of less than or equal to 66 wt % of silica oxide based on the total weight of the solid silica, then the mixture is free of an extrusion aide and the colloidal silica has a particle size of less than 20 nm as measured along a major axis; forming the mixture into a shaped body; and heating the shaped body to 100 to 350° C. to result in the catalyst.

Calcination process to produce enhanced ODH catalyst

Mixed metal oxide catalysts having an amorphous content of not less than 40 wt. % are prepared by calcining the catalyst precursor fully or partially enclosed by a porous material having a melting temperature greater than 600° C. in an inert container including heating the catalyst precursor at a rate from 0.5 to 10° C. per minute from room temperature to a temperature from 370° C. to 540° C. under a stream of pre heated gas chosen from steam and inert gas and mixtures thereof at a pressure of greater than or equal to 1 psig having a temperature from 300° C. to 540° C. and holding the catalyst precursor at that temperature for at least 2 hours and cooling the catalyst precursor to room temperature.

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst compositions

Provided in this disclosure are catalyst compositions. The catalyst compositions include an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst that includes a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula: Mo1.0V0.12-0.49Te0.05-0.17Nb0.10-0.20AlcOd wherein c is from 0 to 2.0 and d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide. The compositions are at least 40 wt. % amorphous as measured by XRD. The disclosure also provides methods of making the compositions.

Article feeder and spacer

A feeder for orienting and aligning disorderly incoming items includes a rotatable table having a peripheral wall and a discharge opening in the peripheral wall, the discharge opening allowing the items in a predetermined orientation to be successively withdrawn from the rotatable table in a single file line, the rotatable table being fed with disorderly items; a first carrier disposed proximate to the discharge opening, the first carrier recovering the oriented items exiting through the discharge opening; and an item spacer mounted proximate to the first carrier, the item spacer providing a predetermined spacing between two consecutive oriented items. It also relates to a method for doing same.

Agglomerated ODH catalyst

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports chosen from slurries of TiO2, ZrO2 Al2O3, AlO(OH) and mixtures thereof have a lower temperature at which 25% conversion is obtained.

Article feeder and spacer

A feeder for orienting and aligning disorderly incoming articles includes a table having a peripheral wall, a rotary surface surrounded by the peripheral wall, and a discharge substantially tangential to the peripheral wall, the discharge being sized to receive one article at a time from the rotary surface in a predetermined orientation; and at least one pile eliminating member extending above the rotary surface and defining a gap with the rotary surface, the gap being sized to solely permit passage of non-superposed articles laying in the predetermined orientation on the rotary surface. It also relates to a method for doing same and a method and an apparatus for removing obstructing blocks from the discharge.

Catalysts for the oxidative dehydrogenation of alkanes

This document relates to oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts that include molybdenum, vanadium, and oxygen.

Article feeder and spacer

A feeder for orienting and aligning disorderly incoming articles includes a table having a peripheral wall, a rotary surface surrounded by the peripheral wall, and a discharge substantially tangential to the peripheral wall, the discharge being sized to receive one article at a time from the rotary surface in a predetermined orientation; and at least one pile eliminating member extending above the rotary surface and defining a gap with the rotary surface, the gap being sized to solely permit passage of non-superposed articles laying in the predetermined orientation on the rotary surface. It also relates to a method for doing same and a method and an apparatus for removing obstructing blocks from the discharge.

Method for searching layered data

Enables search and test for at least one value in layers of audience specific data comprising language, regional, regulatory and/or cultural specific values per layer. The word "audience" for the purposes of this specification means a group of document consumers such as people or computers that are associated with a language, country, region, regulation, culture or any other user defined division. A search utilizing at least one embodiment of the invention occurs with respect to data that makes use of rule-based inheritance. Testing multiple audience layers for all values that meet a specific fine or coarse grained search criteria allows quality assurance testing across all target audiences for a document before publication.

Therapeutic modulation of vaginal epithelium boundary lubrication

The present invention relates to the management of vaginal health. In particular, the present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of use thereof, for treating diseases associated with compromised boundary lubrication at the vaginal epithelium.

Method of making a catalyst for direct oxidation of an alkene to an alkene oxide

This invention is for a method of preparing a supported silver-containing catalyst for use in a process of making an alkene oxide from an alkene and an oxygen-containing gas by oxidation of the alkene to the corresponding epoxide. The catalyst contains metallic silver on a support. The catalyst may also contain small amount of compounds of metals or halides as promoters to improve selectivity, activity, conversion, stability or yield. The catalyst is prepared by forming a slurry of a silver compound, water and one or more organic compounds having at least one functional group of the formula —NX2, —OX or [(═O) (—OX)] wherein X is hydrogen or an alkyl of one to three carbon atoms, X being the same or different, and wherein at least one functional group is bound to a terminal carbon. This slurry is formed before contact with the support material to deposit silver on the support.

THERAPEUTIC MODULATION OF VAGINAL EPITHELIUM BOUNDARY LUBRICATION

The present invention relates to the management of vaginal health. In particular, the present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of use thereof, for treating diseases associated with compromised boundary lubrication at the vaginal epithelium. 127.-. (canceled)28. A method of treating decreased vaginal boundary lubrication or a disease associated therewith or of improving vaginal boundary lubrication , the method comprising topically administering to a vaginal surface of a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of isolated or purified PRG4.29. (canceled)30. The method of claim 28 , wherein the disease associated with decreased vaginal boundary lubrication is vaginal atrophy claim 28 , dyspareunia claim 28 , Sjögren's syndrome claim 28 , menopause claim 28 , androgen deficiency claim 28 , estrogen deficiency claim 28 , estrogen replacement therapy claim 28 , allergy claim 28 , chronic inflammation claim 28 , menopause claim 28 , premature menopause claim 28 , chemotherapy claim 28 , breastfeeding claim 28 , surgical removal of the ovaries before menopause claim 28 , genital lichen sclerosis claim 28 , vulvodynia claim 28 , bacterial vaginosis claim 28 , herpes claim 28 , candida claim 28 , psoriasis claim 28 , contact dermatitis claim 28 , condylomata claim 28 , or side effects of medications and aging.3132.-. (canceled)33. A method of providing lubrication during intercourse or promoting conception comprising topically administering to a vaginal surface claim 28 , a penile surface claim 28 , or a combination thereof an effective amount of an isolated or purified PRG4.3435.-. (canceled)36. A method for improving vaginal boundary lubrication comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of isolated or purified PRG4 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier claim 28 , wherein the therapeutically effective amount of isolated or purified PRG4 is sufficient to improve vaginal boundary lubrication.37. The method ...

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts comprising MoVNbTeO having improved consistency of composition and a 25% conversion of ethylene at less than 420° C. and a selectivity to ethylene above 95% are prepared by treating the catalyst precursor with H2O2 in an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL H2O2 of a 30% solution per gram of catalyst precursor prior to calcining.

Easy open package for food items such as loaves of processed cheese

A hermetically sealed package for food items, such as loaves of processed cheese, employing plastic film with serrated ends and an accessible tear strip, which together provide points of focus for easy opening of the package without unwanted tearing or undesirable contamination of the food item. A process for forming this package also forms part of the invention.

AGGLOMERATED ODH CATALYST

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports comprising slurries of NbO. 2. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 1 , having a cumulative surface area less than 10 m/g as measured by BET and comprising less than 35 wt % of an non-antagonistic binder.3. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 2 , having a cumulative pore volume from 0.020 to 0.20 cm3/g.4. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 2 , having a pore size distribution less than 40% having pore width size less than 200 Angstroms.5. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 2 , having a percent pore area distribution less than 30% and corresponding percentage of pore volume less than 10%.6. The agglomerated catalyst according to in the shape of a sphere claim 2 , rod claim 2 , ring claim 2 , or a saddle having a size from about 1.3 mm to 5 mm.7. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 6 , wherein the NbOhydrate is acidified.8. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 6 , wherein the NbOhydrate is treated with a base.9. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 8 , in the shape of rods having an aspect ratio from 1 to 5/1.3 having a crush strength up to 110 N/mm.10. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 8 , in the shape of spheres having a crush strength up to 110 N/mm.11. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 1 , wherein the NbOhydrate is present in an amount less than 15 wt %.12. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 1 , wherein the NbOhydrate is present in an amount greater than 15 wt %.19. The process according to claim 18 , wherein in step v) the particles are calcined at a temperature of less than 350° C.20. The process according 19 claim 18 , further comprising spheroidizing rod shaped agglomerated particles at a temperature up to 300° C. and then further calcining the resulting spheres at temperatures up to 600° C.21. ...

AGGLOMERATED ODH CATALYST

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports comprising slurries of NbO. 127-. (canceled)28. An agglomerated catalyst , wherein the agglomerated catalyst is prepared from at least: [{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.12-0.49', '0.6-0.16', '0.15-0.20', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'}, 'wherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide; and, '10 wt. % to 95 wt. % of a catalyst active phase of the formula{'sub': 2', '5, '5 wt. % to 90 wt. % of NbOhydrate.'}29. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 28 , further comprising up to 80 wt. % of a non-antagonistic binder.30. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 29 , wherein the non-antagonistic binder is chosen from oxides of aluminum claim 29 , titanium claim 29 , and zirconium.31. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 30 , wherein the non-antagonistic binder is present in the amount of 35 wt. % to 65 wt. % based on the weight of the agglomerated catalyst and the agglomerated catalyst has a surface area up to 250 m/g.32. The agglomerated catalyst according to 30 claim 30 , wherein the oxide of aluminum is Boehmite (Al(O)OH).33. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 30 , wherein the non-antagonistic binder is an oxide of titanium.34. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 30 , wherein the non-antagonistic binder is an oxide of zirconium.35. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 28 , having a cumulative surface area less than 10 m/g as measured by BET and comprising less than 35 wt % of a non-antagonistic binder.36. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 35 , having a cumulative pore volume from 0.020 to 0.20 cm/g.37. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 35 , having a pore size distribution less than 40% and having a pore width size less than 200 Angstroms.38. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 35 , having a percent pore area distribution less than ...

Catalyst for Oxidation of Saturated and Unsaturated Aldehydes to Unsaturated Carboxylic Acid, Method of Making and Method of Using Thereof

The invention is a heteropoly acid compound catalyst composition, a method of making the catalyst composition and a process for the oxidation of saturated and/or unsaturated aldehydes to unsaturated carboxylic acids using the catalyst composition. The catalyst composition is a heteropoly acid compound containing molybdenum, vanadium, phosphorus, cesium, bismuth, copper and antimony. Thermal stability is achieved with higher cesium content (up to less than 3.0) but antimony, copper and bismuth must be present to maintain good activity. 2. The catalyst of wherein the heteropoly acid compound contains one or more element selected from the group consisting of boron claim 1 , tungsten claim 1 , cerium claim 1 , niobium claim 1 , indium claim 1 , iron claim 1 , chromium claim 1 , cobalt claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , manganese claim 1 , arsenic claim 1 , silver claim 1 , zinc claim 1 , lead claim 1 , tin claim 1 , titanium claim 1 , aluminum claim 1 , silicon claim 1 , tantalum claim 1 , germanium claim 1 , gallium claim 1 , zirconium claim 1 , magnesium claim 1 , barium and lanthanum.5. The process of wherein the molybdenum compound is ammonium paramolybdate claim 4 , molybdenum trioxide claim 4 , molybdenum chloride or mixtures or combinations thereof claim 4 , the vanadium compound is ammonium metavanadate claim 4 , vanadium pentoxide claim 4 , vanadium chloride or mixtures or combinations thereof claim 4 , the phosphorus compound is phosphoric acid claim 4 , ammonium phosphite or mixtures or combinations thereof claim 4 , the copper compound is copper nitrate claim 4 , copper chloride or mixtures or combinations thereof claim 4 , the bismuth compound is bismuth nitrate claim 4 , bismuth oxide claim 4 , bismuth chloride or mixtures or combinations thereof claim 4 , the cesium compound is cesium nitrate claim 4 , cesium oxide claim 4 , cesium chloride or mixtures or combinations thereof and the antimony compound is antimony nitrate claim 4 , antimony oxide claim 4 , ...

Catalyst for oxidation of saturated and unsaturated aldehydes to unsaturated carboxylic acid, method of making and method of using thereof

The invention is a heteropoly acid compound catalyst composition, a method of making the catalyst composition and a process for the oxidation of saturated and/or unsaturated aldehydes to unsaturated carboxylic acids using the catalyst composition. The catalyst composition is a heteropoly acid compound containing molybdenum, vanadium, phosphorus, cesium, bismuth, copper and antimony. Thermal stability is achieved with higher cesium content (up to less than 3.0) but antimony, copper and bismuth must be present to maintain good activity. The catalyst is made by dissolving compounds of the components of each of the heteropoly acid compounds in a solution, precipitating the heteropoly acid compounds, obtaining a catalyst precursor and calcining the catalyst precursor to form a heteropoly acid compound catalyst. Unsaturated aldehydes, such as methacrolein, may be oxidized in the presence of the heteropoly acid compound catalyst to produce an unsaturated carboxylic acid, such as methacrylic acid ...

PROCESS FOR PREPARING HYDROCRACKING CATALYST

The invention relates to a process for preparing a hydrocracking catalyst, comprising (i) contacting a shaped body comprising a zeolite and a binder with an aqueous solution of a hydrogenation metal compound which is a complex or a salt of a hydrogenation metal to deposit the hydrogenation metal onto the shaped body, wherein the aqueous solution comprises an ammonium salt and (ii) calcining the shaped body obtained by step (i). 1. A process for preparing a hydrocracking catalyst , comprising:(i) contacting a shaped body comprising a zeolite and a binder with an aqueous solution of a hydrogenation metal compound which is a complex or a salt of a hydrogenation metal to deposit the hydrogenation metal onto the shaped body, wherein the aqueous solution comprises an ammonium salt; and(ii) calcining the shaped body obtained by step (i).2. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the hydrogenation metal is at least one element selected from Group 10 of the periodic table of elements or rhodium or iridium.3. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the hydrogenation metal compound is a metal amine complex.4. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the hydrogenation metal compound is free of chlorine.5. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the ammonium salt is selected from the group consisting of NHCl claim 1 , NHNO claim 1 , (NH)COand NHHCO.6. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the ammonium salt is free of chlorine.7. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the zeolite is ZSM 5.8. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the zeolite has a silica (SiO) to alumina (AlO) molar ratio of 25-75.9. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the amount of the hydrogenation metal is 0.010-0.30 wt % with respect to the total catalyst.10. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the amount of the hydrogenation metal is 0.015-0.095 wt % with respect to the total catalyst.11. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the shaped body is an extrudate having ...

Computer program and method for managing implementation of a process

A method (54) utilizing a computing system (30) for managing implementation of a process (34) enables selection of a procedure (58) that includes hierarchically ordered events (68), each representing a portion of the process (34). Each event (68) has a set (76) of associated event outcomes (62), each being linked to another event (68) within the procedure (58). The method (54) obtains at least one event object (60) associated with a first event (68) and instantiates the event object (60) to present the first event (68) and the set (76) of event outcomes (62) to a user (24). A user input (138) is received at the computing system (30) that includes one of the event outcomes (62) indicating completion of the first event (68). The method (54) proceeds to another event (68) within the procedure (58) to implement the process (34) in response to the one event outcome (62).

Article feeder and spacer

A feeder for orienting and aligning disorderly incoming items includes a rotatable table having a peripheral wall and a discharge opening in the peripheral wall, the discharge opening allowing the items in a predetermined orientation to be successively withdrawn from the rotatable table in a single file line, the rotatable table being fed with disorderly items; a first carrier disposed proximate to the discharge opening, the first carrier recovering the oriented items exiting through the discharge opening; and an item spacer mounted proximate to the first carrier, the item spacer providing a predetermined spacing between two consecutive oriented items. It also relates to a method for doing same.

Agglomerated ODH catalyst

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports comprising slurries of Nb2O5.

CALCINATION PROCESS TO PRODUCE ENHANCED ODH CATALYST

Mixed metal oxide catalysts having an amorphous content of not less than 40 wt. % are prepared by calcining the catalyst precursor fully or partially enclosed by a porous material having a melting temperature greater than 600° C. in an inert container including heating the catalyst precursor at a rate from 0.5 to 10° C. per minute from room temperature to a temperature from 370° C. to 540° C. under a stream of pre heated gas chosen from steam and inert gas and mixtures thereof at a pressure of greater than or equal to 1 psig having a temperature from 300° C. to 540° C. and holding the catalyst precursor at that temperature for at least 2 hours and cooling the catalyst precursor to room temperature. 1. A method to calcine a catalyst precursor of the formula{'br': None, 'sub': 1', '0.1-1', '0.1-1', '0.1-1', '0.1-1', '0.01-0.2', '0.2', 'd, 'MoVVNbNbTeXO'} calcining the catalyst precursor in an inert container with flow passage there through, at a rate from 0.5 to 10° C. per minute from room temperature to a holding temperature from 370° C. to 540° C. under a stream of pre heated gas chosen from steam and inert gas and mixtures thereof at a rate of flow comparable to a flow rate of not less 150 sccm through a 2.54 cm diameter tube, with a length of 152 cm at a pressure of greater than or equal to 1 psig having a temperature from 300° C. to 540° C.;', 'holding the catalyst precursor at the holding temperature for at least 2 hours; and', 'cooling the catalyst precursor to room temperature said catalyst precursor being fully or partially enclosed by a porous material having a melting temperature greater than 600° C., 'where X is chosen from Pd, Sb Ba, Al, W, Ga, Bi, Sn, Cu, Ti, Fe, Co, Ni, Cr, Zr, Ca, oxides thereof and mixtures thereof, and d is a number to satisfy the valence of the catalyst while maintaining an amorphous content of not less than 40 wt. % the method comprising'}2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the inert container is made from high temperature ...

HYDROCARBON AROMATIZATION CATALYST COMPOSITION AND METHOD OF FORMATION

A method for forming a catalyst can comprise: heating a Ge-ZSM-5 zeolite powder at a temperature of 400 to 600° C.; ion-exchanging the heat-treated zeolite powder with an alkali metal and impregnating the heat-treated zeolite powder with noble metal; heating the ion-exchanged, impregnated zeolite powder to a temperature of 250 to 350° C.; mixing the second heat-treated zeolite powder with a solid silica binder and a colloidal silica binder to form a mixture, wherein if the solid silica has a purity of less than or equal to 66 wt % of silica oxide based on the total weight of the solid silica, then the mixture is free of an extrusion aide and the colloidal silica has a particle size of less than 20 nm as measured along a major axis; forming the mixture into a shaped body; and heating the shaped body to 100 to 350° C. to result in the catalyst.

Calcination Process to Produce Enhanced ODH Catalyst

Mixed metal oxide catalysts having an amorphous content of not less than 40 wt. % are prepared by calcining the catalyst precursor fully or partially enclosed by a porous material having a melting temperature greater than 600° C. in an inert container including heating the catalyst precursor at a rate from 0.5 to 10° C. per minute from room temperature to a temperature from 370° C. to 540° C. under a stream of pre heated gas chosen from steam and inert gas and mixtures thereof at a pressure of greater than or equal to 1 psig having a temperature from 300° C. to 540° C. and holding the catalyst precursor at that temperature for at least 2 hours and cooling the catalyst precursor to room temperature. 1. A method to calcine a catalyst precursor of the formula{'br': None, 'sub': 1', '0.1-1', '0.1-1', '0.01-0.2', '0.2', 'd, 'MoVNbTeXO'} calcining the catalyst precursor in an inert container with flow passage there through, at a rate from 0.5 to 10° C. per minute from room temperature to a holding temperature from 370° C. to 540° C. under a stream of pre heated gas chosen from steam and inert gas and mixtures thereof at a rate of flow comparable to a flow rate of not less 150 sccm through a 2.54 cm diameter tube, with a length of 152 cm at a pressure of greater than or equal to 1 psig having a temperature from 300° C. to 540° C.;', 'cooling the catalyst precursor to room temperature said catalyst precursor being fully or partially enclosed by a porous material having a melting temperature greater than 600° C.', 'holding the catalyst precursor at the holding temperature for at least 2 hours; and'}], 'where X is chosen from Pd, Sb Ba, Al, W, Ga, Bi, Sn, Cu, Ti, Fe, Co, Ni, Cr, Zr, Ca, oxides thereof and mixtures thereof, and d is a number to satisfy the valence of the catalyst while maintaining an amorphous content of not less than 40 wt. % the method comprising'}2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the inert container is made from high temperature glass claim 1 , ...

Eddy Current Inspection Probe

A device and method of eddy current based nondestructive testing of tubular structures made of electrically conductive materials is disclosed. The probe includes means for producing an electromagnetic field for inducing an eddy current in a device under test, means for sensing eddy current signals in the device under test, and an analog to digital converter, wherein the analog to digital converter is conditioned to receive the sensed eddy current signals and to transmit a digital signal related to the eddy current signals. 1. An eddy current probe for nondestructive testing of tubular structures made of electrically conductive materials comprising:a plurality of eddy current drive coils;a plurality of eddy current sensors;a first multiplexer configured to receive signals from said plurality of eddy current sensors;an analog to digital converter configured to receive multiplexed signals from said first multiplexer and to convert said multiplexed signals to a multiplexed digital signal.2. The eddy current probe of claim 1 , further comprising a digital to analog converter configured to receive digital drive signals and convert said digital drive signals an analog signal for driving said drive coils.3. The eddy current probe of claim 2 , further comprising a drive current amplifier claim 2 , a filter and a multiplexer claim 2 , said drive current amplifier configured to amplify said analog signal for driving said drive coils claim 2 , said filter configured to filter said amplified analog signal and said multiplexer configured to direct said analog signal to one of said plurality of eddy current drive coils.4. The eddy current probe of claim 1 , wherein said eddy current sensors are a circumferential array of sensors. This utility application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of provisional application Ser. No. 62/000,905 filed on May 20, 2014, and entitled “Eddy Current Probe.”The entire disclosure of the provisional application is incorporated herein by ...

Methods and apparatus for providing power signals to operating circuitry mounted on circuit boards

A technique involves providing a set of soft start power signals to operating circuitry mounted on a circuit board. In particular, the technique involves enabling (i) a first converter to provide a first soft start power signal to the operating circuitry and (ii) a second converter to provide a second soft start power signal to the operation circuitry. Additionally, the technique involves providing a first control signal that indicates whether the first converter properly provides the first soft start power signal, and providing a second control signal that indicates whether the second converter properly provides the second soft start power signal. Furthermore, the technique involves disabling the first converter if the second control signal indicates that the second converter improperly provides the second soft start power signal, and disabling the second converter if the first control signal indicates that the first converter improperly provides the first soft start power signal.

Application and uses of PRG4 and therapeutic modulation thereof

The present invention relates to the uses of the protein PRG4 and therapeutic modulation thereof. In particular, the present invention relates compositions and methods utilizing PRG4 and therapeutic modulation thereof, including, use as a surgical lubricant, use in a treatment for prevention or reduction of post-surgical adhesions, use in a treatment for oral ulcerations, use as an athletic lubricating patch, use as a dermal filler, use in a treatment for dry mouth, use in a drug delivery method or composition, and use in nursing lubrication.

CLEANING DEVICE MADE FROM CLOSED-CELL, LATEX-FREE ELASTOMER FOAM

A cleaning device suitable, in use, for picking up hair and particles, the cleaning device comprising a unitary, elastomeric main body comprising a face comprising an integrally-formed wiper blade and an integrally formed channel adjacent the wiper blade wherein the main body portion is manufactured from a latex-free, closed-cell elastomer foam. Suitably, the device comprises an arched leading wiper blade and a flat trailing wiper blade. The device can be used by latex-allergic users for grooming animals and/or for picking up pet hair and other debris from a range of surfaces. 125.-. (canceled)26. A cleaning device suitable , in use , for picking up hair and particles , the cleaning device comprising a unitary , elastomeric main body comprising a face comprising an integrally-formed wiper blade and an integrally formed channel adjacent the wiper blade wherein the main body portion is manufactured from a closed-cell ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA).271. The cleaning device of claim , comprising a plurality of integrally-formed wiper blades , a first one of the wiper blades comprising an arched profile , and a second one of the wiper blades comprising a generally flat-based profile.28. The cleaning device of claim 26 , wherein the or each wiper blade comprises one or more transverse grooves therein such that the said wiper blade or blades comprise a plurality of discrete block portions separated by the transverse grooves.29. The cleaning device of claim 26 , comprising a plurality of integrally formed channels.30. The cleaning device of claim 26 , wherein the closed-cell EVA is electrically insulative.31. The cleaning device of claim 26 , wherein the closed-cell EVA comprises an anti-bacterial additive.32. The cleaning device of claim 26 , wherein a side wall or an end wall of the channel leads into the wiper blade at an angle of any one or more of the group consisting of: substantially 90 degrees; and substantially 30 to 50 degrees.33. The cleaning device of claim 26 , ...

MOBILE COMMUNICATION AND WORKFLOW MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

A communication and medical care management system using mobile application technology for use within the healthcare industry. The system enables faster, richer, and more direct communication within emergency departments, between departments, and between providers and their patients. It can coordinate busy healthcare resources to efficiently and effectively provide the proper care at the right place in time, resulting in cost savings. 1. A system for medical care task management comprising:a computer network for management and transmission of indoor location and work status data of at least one care provider;a data storage device for indoor location and work status data of the at least one care provider;a server configured to receive indoor location and work status data of the at least one care provider;at least one mobile computing device configured to transmit data including the at least one care provider's indoor location and work status data; anda second computing device configured to manage work tasks and assign work tasks to the at least one care provider based on indoor location and work status of the at least one care provider.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile computing device is configured to transmit a care provider's indoor location by manual location reporting.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile computing device is configured to transmit a care provider's indoor location by automated detection of the location of the mobile computing device through at least one WiFi network router.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second computing device is configured to assign work tasks related to a patient to the care provider by reference to the proximity of the care provider to the patient.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second computing device is configured to assign work tasks related to a patient to the care provider by reference to the medical credentials of the care provider.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile ...

Method for in situ high activity ODH catalyst

A process for preparing an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst or oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst precursor that includes mixing solutions of molybdenum and tellurium at a pH from about 3.3 to 7.5; adjusting the pH of the resulting solution back to about 5 and adding VOSO4 and adding a solution of Nb2O5 and oxalic acid and treating the resulting precursor slurry in a controlled pressure hydrothermal process to obtain the catalyst.

Easy open package for food items such as loaves of processed cheese

A hermetically sealed package for food items, such as loaves of processed cheese, employing plastic film with serrated ends and an accessible tear strip, which together provide points of focus for easy opening of the package without unwanted tearing or undesirable contamination of the food item. A process for forming this package also forms part of the invention.

Agglomerated ODH catalyst

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports chosen from slurries of TiO2, ZrO2 Al2O3, AlO(OH) and mixtures thereof have a lower temperature at which 25% conversion is obtained.

Agglomerated ODH catalyst

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports comprising slurries of Nb2O5.

OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYST COMPOSITIONS

Provided in this disclosure are catalyst compositions. The catalyst compositions include an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst that includes a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula: 1. A catalyst composition comprising an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula:{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.12-0.49', '0.05-0.25', '0.10-0.20', 'c', 'd, 'MoVTeNbAlO'} c is from 0 to 2.0,', 'd is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide, and', 'the composition is at least 40 wt. % amorphous as measured by XRD., 'wherein2. The catalyst composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition is from 60 wt. % to 80 wt. % amorphous.3. The catalyst composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition further comprises an adjuvant.4. The catalyst composition of claim 3 , wherein the adjuvant comprises about 30 wt. % to about 90 wt. % of the catalyst composition.5. The catalyst composition of claim 4 , wherein the oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprises about 10 wt. % to about 70 wt. % of the catalyst composition.6. The catalyst composition of claim 1 , wherein the mixed metal oxide has the empirical formula:{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.12-0.49', '0.05-0.17', '0.10-0.20', 'c', 'd, 'MoVTeNbAlO'}wherein c is 0.01 to 2.0.7. The catalyst composition of claim 3 , wherein the adjuvant comprises an alumina.8. The catalyst composition of claim 7 , wherein the alumina comprises a boehmite.9. The catalyst composition of claim 1 , wherein the molar ratio of molybdenum to vanadium in the catalyst composition is from 1:0.12 to 1:0.49 claim 1 , the molar ratio of molybdenum to tellurium in the catalyst composition is from 1:0.05 to 1:0.25 claim 1 , the molar ratio of molybdenum to niobium in the catalyst composition is from 1:0.10 to 1:0.20 claim 1 , and the molar ratio of molybdenum to aluminum in the catalyst composition is from 0.01 to 2.0 claim 1 , as determined by PIXE.10. The catalyst composition of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst composition ...

OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYSTS

Provided in this disclosure are oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts that include a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula: Mo1.0V0.12-0.49Te0.05-0.17Nb0.10-0.20Od wherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst is characterized by having XRD diffraction peaks (2θ degrees) at 22±0.2, 27±0.2, 28.0±0.2, and 28.3±0.1. The disclosure also provides methods of making the catalysts that include wet ball milling.

Device, System, and Method for Tracking Job Management

A device, system, and method tracks a job management. The method performed by a central processing server includes receiving a layout drawing of an installation job, the layout drawing including a plurality of components to be installed at a work site. The method includes receiving status information of the components as a status of the components is updated. The method includes dynamically updating a current status for each of the components upon receiving the status information. The method includes receiving a request for a status update from a user device for a selected component of the components. The method includes determining the current status of the selected component. The method includes transmitting, by the server, the current status of the selected component to the user device.

METHOD FOR IN SITU HIGH ACTIVITY ODH CATALYST

A process for preparing an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst or oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst precursor that includes mixing solutions of molybdenum and tellurium at a pH from about 3.3 to 7.5; adjusting the pH of the resulting solution back to about 5 and adding VOSOand adding a solution of NbOand oxalic acid and treating the resulting precursor slurry in a controlled pressure hydrothermal process to obtain the catalyst. 1. A process for preparing a catalyst comprising mixed oxides of MoVNbTe comprising the following steps:i) forming an aqueous solution of ammonium heptamolybdate (tetrahydrate) and telluric acid in a molar ratio of Mo:Te 1:0.14 to 1:0.20, at a temperature from 30° C. to 85° C. and adjusting the pH of the solution to 6.5 to 8.5, with a nitrogen-containing base to form soluble salts of the metals;ii) stirring the pH adjusted solution for a time of not less than 15 minutes;iii) adjusting the pH of the resulting solution to from 4.5 to 5.5, with an acid, and stirring the resulting solution at a temperature of 75° C. to 85° C. until it is homogeneous;iv) preparing an aqueous 0.30 to 0.50 molar solution of vanadyl sulphate at a temperature from room temperature to 80° C.;v) mixing the solutions from steps i) and iv) together to provide a molar ratio of V:Mo from 1.00:1 to 1.67:1;{'sub': 2', '2', '4', '2', '5', '2, 'vi) preparing a solution of HCOand NbOxHO in a molar ratio from 3:1:1 to 6.5:1;'}vii) adding the solution from step vi) to the solution of step v) to provide a molar ratio of Mo:Nb from 5.56:1 to 7.14:1 to form a slurry;viii) heating the resulting slurry in an autoclave under an inert gas, air, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and mixtures thereof at a pressure of not less than 1 psig at a temperature from 140° C. to 190° C. for not less than 6 hours.2. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature for the hydrothermal treatment is from 140° C. to 180° C.3. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure in the ...

OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYST

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts comprising MoVNbTeO having improved consistency of composition and a 25% conversion of ethylene at less than 420° C. and a selectivity to ethylene above 95% are prepared by treating the catalyst precursor with HOin an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL HOof a 30% solution per gram of catalyst precursor prior to calcining. 1. A method for the oxidative dehydrogenation of a mixed feed comprising ethane and oxygen in a volume ratio from 70:30 to 95:5 , wherein the method comprises passing the mixed feed over a calcined oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of the empirical formula:{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.22-0.33', '0.10-0.16', '0.15-0.19', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'}wherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide and the empirical formula is determined by PIXE; and{'sub': 2', '2, 'wherein the calcined oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst is formed from a catalyst precursor that is treated with HOand wherein the catalyst precursor is calcined at a temperature from 200° C. to 600° C.'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the gas hourly space velocity greater than 3000 hr..3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the temperature is less than 400° C.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the calcined oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst forms a fixed bed in the reactor.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the gas hourly space velocity is not less than 3000 hr claim 1 , the calcined oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst forms a fixed bed in the reactor claim 1 , and the selectivity to ethylene is not less than 90%.6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the calcined oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst has the empirical formula:{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.22-0.29', '0.10-0.16', '0.15-0.19', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'}wherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide and the empirical formula is determined by PIXE.7. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the calcined oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst has the empirical formula:{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.22 ...

OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYST COMPOSITIONS

Provided in this disclosure are catalyst compositions. The catalyst compositions include an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst that includes a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula: Mo1.0V0.12-0.49Te0.05-0.17Nb0.10-0.20AlcOd wherein c is from 0 to 2.0 and d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide. The compositions are at least 40 wt. % amorphous as measured by XRD. The disclosure also provides methods of making the compositions.

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts

Provided in this disclosure are oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts that include a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula: Mo1.0V0.12-0.49Te0.05-0.17Nb0.10-0.20Od wherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst is characterized by having XRD diffraction peaks (2θ degrees) at 22±0.2, 27±0.2, 28.0±0.2, and 28.3±0.1. The disclosure also provides methods of making the catalysts that include wet ball milling.

Application and Uses of PRG4 and Therapeutic Modulation Thereof

The present invention relates to the uses of the protein PRG4 and therapeutic modulation thereof. In particular, the present invention relates compositions and methods utilizing PRG4 and therapeutic modulation thereof, including, use as a surgical lubricant, use in a treatment for prevention or reduction of post-surgical adhesions, use in a treatment for oral ulcerations, use as an athletic lubricating patch, use as a dermal filler, use in a treatment for dry mouth, use in a drug delivery method or composition, and use in nursing lubrication.

Easy open package for food items such as loaves of processed cheese

A hermetically sealed package for food items, such as loaves of processed cheese, employing plastic film with serrated ends and an accessible tear strip, which together provide points of focus for easy opening of the package without unwanted tearing or undesirable contamination of the food item. A process for forming this package also forms part of the invention.

OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYSTS

Provided in this disclosure are oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts that include a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula: 1. An oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula:{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.12-0.49', '0.05-0.17', '0.10-0.20', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'} d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide, and', 'the oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst is characterized by having XRD diffraction peaks (2θ degrees) at 22±0.2, 27±0.2, 28.0±0.2, and 28.3±0.1., 'wherein2. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst is prepared by a process comprising wet ball milling a pretreated oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst having the empirical formula:{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.12-0.49', '0.05-0.17', '0.10-0.20', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'}wherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide.3. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 27±0.2 to the peak at 22±0.2 is 0.55:1 to 0.65:1.4. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 27±0.2 to the peak at 22±0.2 is about 0.60:1.5. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 28.3±0.1 to the peak at 27±0.2 is 0.50:1 to 0.80:1.6. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 28.3±0.1 to the peak at 27±0.2 is 0.60:1 to 0.70:1.7. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 28.3±0.1 to the peak at 27±0.2 is about 0.65:1.8. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 28.0±0.2 to the peak at 28.2±0.1 is 0.8:1 to 1.1:1.9. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 28.0±0.2 to the peak at 28.2±0.1 is 0.9:1 to 1:1.10. The oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the aspect ratio of the peak at 28.2±0.1 to the peak at 28.4 ...

Support for a catalyst for direct oxidation of propylene to propylene oxide, method of making and method of using catalyst

This invention is for a support for a silver-containing catalyst which can be used in a method of making an alkene oxide from an alkene and an oxygen-containing gas by oxidation of the alkene to the corresponding epoxide, such as propylene to propylene oxide. The support is an alkaline earth metal carbonate, such as calcium carbonate, and the shape of the support is not regular rhombohedral, cubic nor a blend of regular rhombohedral and cubic. Preferably, the shape of the support is scalenohedral, irregular rhombohedral, acicular or prismatic. The catalyst may contain optional promoters, such as potassium, chlorine, molybdenum, rhenium, tungsten, gold, thallium, yttrium, niobium, indium, barium, cobalt or cerium, and the support may contain an additional support material, such as an alkaline earth oxide.

Calcination Process to Produce Enhanced ODH Catalyst

Mixed metal oxide catalysts having an amorphous content of not less than 40 wt. % are prepared by calcining the catalyst precursor fully or partially enclosed by a porous material having a melting temperature greater than 600° C. in an inert container including heating the catalyst precursor at a rate from 0.5 to 10° C. per minute from room temperature to a temperature from 370° C. to 540° C. under a stream of pre heated gas chosen from steam and inert gas and mixtures thereof at a pressure of greater than or equal to 1 psig having a temperature from 300° C. to 540° C. and holding the catalyst precursor at that temperature for at least 2 hours and cooling the catalyst precursor to room temperature.

MACROLIDE COMPOUNDS AND THEIR USE IN LIVER STAGE MALARIA AND RELATED DISEASE

A novel quantum-based computational process for drug discovery and design was used to identify potential novel liver-stage anti-malarial therapeutic molecules. The approach combined the latest big-data advances in high-throughput bioassay development with fundamental scientific knowledge to generate new pharmaceutical leads. Several molecules with no previous association with anti-parasitical activity were identified. These molecules and there use in prevention and/or treatment of Plasmodium infections are provided.

AGGLOMERATED ODH CATALYST

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports chosen from slurries of TiO, ZrOAlO, AlO(OH) and mixtures thereof have a lower temperature at which 25% conversion is obtained. 1. An agglomerated catalyst comprising: [{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.12-0.49', '0.06-0.16', '0.15-0.20', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'}, 'as measured by PIXE and wherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide; and, '10 wt. % to 95 wt. % of a catalyst of the formula{'sub': 2', '2', '3, '5 wt. % to 90 wt. % of a binder chosen from TiO, AlO, AlO(OH), and mixtures thereof.'}2. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 1 , having a cumulative surface area of less than 35 m/g as measured by BET.3. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 1 , having a cumulative pore volume from 0.05 to 0.50 cm/g.4. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 1 , having a pore size distribution with less than 4% having a pore width size less than 150 Angstroms.5. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the agglomerated catalyst is in the shape of a sphere claim 1 , rod claim 1 , ring claim 1 , or a saddle.6. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 5 , wherein the agglomerated catalyst has an average size from 1.3 mm to 5 mm.7. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 5 , wherein the binder is an acidified binder.8. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 5 , wherein the binder is a base treated binder.9. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 7 , wherein the agglomerated catalyst is in the shape of a rod having an aspect ratio from 1 to 5/1.3 and a crush strength up to 100 N/mm.10. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 8 , wherein the agglomerated catalyst is in the shape of a rod having an aspect ratio from 1 to 5/1.3 and a crush strength up to 100 N/mm.11. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 7 , wherein the agglomerated catalyst is in the shape of a sphere having a crush strength up to 100 N.12. The agglomerated catalyst of claim 8 ...

REMOVING AND CLEANING DEHYDROGENATION CATALYSTS

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts including mixed oxides of Mo, V, Nb, Te, and optionally a promoter may be dissolved in aqueous solutions of oxalic acid. This permits the removal of catalyst and catalyst residues from reactors for the oxidative dehydrogenation of paraffins and particularly ethane.

Methods and apparatus for providing power signals to operating circuitry mounted on circuit boards

A technique involves providing a set of soft start power signals to operating circuitry mounted on a circuit board. In particular, the technique involves enabling (i) a first converter to provide a first soft start power signal to the operating circuitry and (ii) a second converter to provide a second soft start power signal to the operation circuitry. Additionally, the technique involves providing a first control signal that indicates whether the first converter properly provides the first soft start power signal, and providing a second control signal that indicates whether the second converter properly provides the second soft start power signal. Furthermore, the technique involves disabling the first converter if the second control signal indicates that the second converter improperly provides the second soft start power signal, and disabling the second converter if the first control signal indicates that the first converter improperly provides the first soft start power signal.

Calcination process to produce enhanced ODH catalyst

Mixed metal oxide catalysts having an amorphous content of not less than 40 wt. % are prepared by calcining the catalyst precursor fully or partially enclosed by a porous material having a melting temperature greater than 600° C. in an inert container including heating the catalyst precursor at a rate from 0.5 to 10° C. per minute from room temperature to a temperature from 370° C. to 540° C. under a stream of pre heated gas chosen from steam and inert gas and mixtures thereof at a pressure of greater than or equal to 1 psig having a temperature from 300° C. to 540° C. and holding the catalyst precursor at that temperature for at least 2 hours and cooling the catalyst precursor to room temperature.

Molybdenum-vanadium-iron- and/or molybdenum-vanadium-aluminium-based oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials

This document relates to oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials that include molybdenum, vanadium, oxygen, and iron; oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials that include molybdenum, vanadium, oxygen, and aluminum; and oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials that include molybdenum, vanadium, oxygen, iron, and aluminum.

Method for separating sterols from tall oil

A method is set forth for separating a sterol or sterol ester from crude tall oil comprising fractionating the crude tall oil into a residue fraction and a volatile fraction, wherein the temperature of the residue fraction does not exceed about 290° C., and wherein the residue fraction includes the sterol or sterol ester. By application of this method, which can be implemented in existing fractionating equipment or in specially designed pitch collecting apparatuses disclosed herein, the yield of sterols can exceed 50% with respect to the sterols present in crude tall oil. A method is also provided for separating unsaponifiable material from a tall oil stream comprising saponifying the stream with a mixture of sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide to form sodium and potassium salts of fatty acids, rosin acids, or both; evaporating the unsaponifiable material; and acidulating the unevaporated sodium and potassium salts.

AGGLOMERATED ODH CATALYST

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts for converting lower paraffins to alkenes such as ethane to ethylene when prepared as an agglomeration, for example extruded with supports chosen from slurries of TiO, ZrOAlO, AlO(OH) and mixtures thereof have a lower temperature at which 25% conversion is obtained. 1. An agglomerated catalyst comprising:from 10 to 95 weight % of a catalyst of the formula:{'sub': 1.0', '0.12-0.49', '0.6-0.16', '0.15-0.20', 'd', '2', '2', '2', '3', '2, 'MoVTeNbOwherein d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide; and from 5-90 weight % of a binder chosen from acidic, basic or neutral binder slurries of TiO, ZrOAlO, AlO(OH) and mixtures thereof provided that ZrOis not used in combination with an aluminum containing binder.'}2. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 1 , having a cumulative surface area less than 35 m/g as measured by BET.3. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 2 , having a cumulative pore volume from 0.05 to 0.50 cm/g.4. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 2 , having a pore size distribution less than 4% having pore width size less than 150 Angstroms.5. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 2 , having a percent pore area distribution less than 40% and corresponding percentage of pore volume less than 20%.6. The agglomerated catalyst according to in the shape of a sphere claim 2 , rod claim 2 , ring claim 2 , or a saddle having a size from about 1.3 mm to 5 mm.7. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 6 , wherein the binder is an acidified binder.8. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 6 , wherein the binder is a base treated binder.9. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 7 , in the shape of rods having an aspect ratio from 1 to 5/1.3 having a crush strength up to 100 N/mm.10. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 8 , in the shape of rods having an aspect ratio from 1 to 5/1.3 having a crush strength up to 100 N/mm.11. The agglomerated catalyst according to claim 7 , in ...

Removing and cleaning dehydrogenation catalysts

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts including mixed oxides of Mo, V, Nb, Te, and optionally a promoter may be dissolved in aqueous solutions of oxalic acid. This permits the removal of catalyst and catalyst residues from reactors for the oxidative dehydrogenation of paraffins and particularly ethane.

Methods and apparatus for providing power signals to operating circuitry mounted on circuit boards

A technique involves providing a set of soft start power signals to operating circuitry mounted on a circuit board. In particular, the technique involves enabling (i) a first converter to provide a first soft start power signal to the operating circuitry and (ii) a second converter to provide a second soft start power signal to the operation circuitry. Additionally, the technique involves providing a first control signal that indicates whether the first converter properly provides the first soft start power signal, and providing a second control signal that indicates whether the second converter properly provides the second soft start power signal. Furthermore, the technique involves disabling the first converter if the second control signal indicates that the second converter improperly provides the second soft start power signal, and disabling the second converter if the first control signal indicates that the first converter improperly provides the first soft start power signal.

Detection of malaria parasites by mass spectrometry

Mass spectrometric techniques are provided for detecting the presence of parasites that accumulate unbound heme in red blood cells (including malaria parasites), based on the discovery that unbound heme can be detected and quantified using mass spectrometry. In one aspect of the invention, the method includes the steps of: obtaining a blood sample from the animal; preparing a test sample on a support from the blood sample, and inserting the support into a mass spectrometer for analysis. Next one obtains a mass spectrum of the test sample and determines whether the mass spectrum contains a mass/charge signature of unbound heme. If it is determined that the mass spectrum of the test sample shows the mass/charge signature of unbound heme, the animal is diagnosed as infected with malaria parasites.

Process for preparing hydrocracking catalyst

The invention relates to a process for preparing a hydrocracking catalyst, comprising (i) contacting a shaped body comprising a zeolite and a binder with an aqueous solution of a hydrogenation metal compound which is a complex or a salt of a hydrogenation metal to deposit the hydrogenation metal onto the shaped body, wherein the aqueous solution comprises an ammonium salt and (ii) calcining the shaped body obtained by step (i).

Probiotic bifidobacterium strains

Bifidobacterium strain AH1206 or mutants or variants thereof are immunomodulatory following oral consumption and are useful in the prophylaxis and/or treatment of inflammatory activity for example undesirable gastrointestinal inflammatory activity such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Replenishment and Enrichment of Ocular Surface Lubrication

An ophthalmic composition, and methods of use thereof, including for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or undesired condition that is associated with or causes ocular boundary deficiency at the ocular surface or for the treatment or care of ophthalmic devices. The ophthalmic composition comprises a human PRG4 protein, a lubricant fragment, homolog, or isoform thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution. The ophthalmic composition may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents. 1. An composition for the care of an ophthalmic contact lens , the composition comprising PRG4 disposed in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution and a contact lens care agent comprising a surfactant , a protease , a disinfectant , or a combination thereof.2. The composition of claim 1 , comprising one or more surfactants.3. The composition of claim 1 , further comprising one or more viscosity increasing components.4. The composition of claim 1 , further comprising one or more chelating components.5. The composition of claim 1 , comprising one or more proteases.6. The composition of claim 1 , comprising one or more disinfectants.7. The composition of claim 1 , comprising a PRG4 at a concentration of 10-10 claim 1 ,000 μg/ml.8. The composition of claim 1 , further comprising an effective concentration of sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid.9. The composition of claim 8 , comprising sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid at a concentration of 10-100 claim 8 ,000 μg/ml.10. The composition of claim 9 , comprising sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid at a concentration of 500-5 claim 9 ,000 μg/ml.11. The composition of claim 1 , comprising a concentration of surface active phospholipid selected from the group consisting of L-α-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine claim 1 , phosphatidylcholine claim 1 , phosphatidylethanolamine and sphingomyelin.12. The composition of claim 11 , wherein the surface active ...

PRG4 TREATMENT FOR INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS

The present invention relates to a disorder of the lower urinary tract, and in particular, reducing the symptoms (including treatment) of interstitial cystitis in vivo. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to treatment formulations and methods for reducing interstitial cystitis in patients via administration of a therapeutically effective concentration of PRG4. 133.-. (canceled)34. A method for treating interstitial cystitis or symptoms associated therewith in a subject in need thereof , comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising PRG4.35. The method of claim 34 , wherein the PRG4 comprises a lubricating fragment claim 34 , multimer claim 34 , or a homolog of a glycosylated polypeptide.36. The method of claim 34 , wherein the PRG4 comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO:1.37. The method of claim 34 , wherein the PRG4 is a purified or a recombinant form of PRG4.38. The method of claim 34 , wherein the PRG4 has an average molar mass of between 50 kDa and 400 kDa.39. The method of claim 34 , wherein the PRG4 is in a therapeutically effective concentration of between 10-10 claim 34 ,000 μg/mL or 50-500 μg/mL.40. The method of claim 34 , further comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of an osmolar component.41. The method of claim 40 , wherein the composition is in solution and the osmolar component is in a sufficient amount so that the final solution is isotonic or near isotonic.42. The method of claim 40 , wherein the osmolar component is at least one of sodium chloride claim 40 , dextrose claim 40 , dextran 40 claim 40 , dextran 60 claim 40 , starch claim 40 , and mannitol.43. The method of claim 34 , further comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a local anesthetic agent.44. The method of claim 43 , wherein the local anesthetic agent is at least one of lidocaine claim 43 , bupivacaine claim 43 , and mepivacaine.45. The method of claim 43 , wherein ...

Semiconductor Device and Method of Manufacturing a Semiconductor Device Including Grinding Steps

A method of manufacturing a device includes providing a semiconductor chip having a first face and a second face opposite to the first face with a contact pad arranged on the first face. The semiconductor chip is placed on a carrier with the first face facing the carrier. The semiconductor chip is encapsulated with an encapsulation material. The carrier is removed and the semiconductor material is removed from the second face of the first semiconductor chip without removing encapsulation material at the same time.

ANGIOGENESIS INHIBITORS

Described herein are methods of inhibiting angiogenesis, and treating or preventing a disease or disorder (or symptoms thereof) associated with angiogenesis, wherein an anti-angiogenesis compound is administered to a subject. 1. A method of inhibiting angiogenesis in a subject , the method comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of an anti-angiogenic compound , wherein the compound is danazol.2. A sustained release device for implantation in a patient and sustained release of an anti-angiogenic compound for at least a period of 30 days , wherein the anti-angiogenic compound is danazol.3. A sustained release drug device adapted for implantation in or adjacent to the eye of a patient , the drug delivery device comprising: (i) a drug core comprising anti-angiogenic compound , wherein the anti-angiogenic compound is danazol; (ii) an impermeable coating disposed about the core that is substantially impermeable to the passage of the anti-angiogenic compound , having one or more openings therein which permit diffusion of the anti-angiogenic compound , and which is substantially insoluble and inert in body fluids and compatible with body tissues; and , optionally , (iii) one or more permeable polymer members or coatings disposed in the flow path of the anti-angiogenic compound through said openings in said impermeable coating , said permeable polymer being permeable to the passage of the anti-angiogenic compound , and which is substantially insoluble and inert in body fluids and compatible with body tissues; wherein the impermeable coating and permeable polymer members or coatings are disposed about the drug core so as to produce , when implanted , a substantially constant rate of release of the anti-angiogenic compound from the device.4. A sustained release formulation for depot injection in a patient and sustained release of an anti-angiogenic compound for at least a period of 30 days , wherein the formulation includes:an viscous gel formulation ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING AUDIO AND VIDEO CHANNELS FOR VIDEO GAME PLAYERS AND SPECTATORS

A computer-implemented system and method are described for managing audio chat for an online video game or application. For example, a system according to one embodiment comprises: an online video game or application execution engine to execute an online video game or application in response to input from one or more users of the video game or application and to responsively generate audio and video of the video game or application; and a chat subsystem to establish audio chat sessions with the one or more users and one or more spectators to the video game or application, the chat subsystem establishing a plurality of audio chat channels including a spectator channel over which the spectators participate in audio chat and a user channel over which the users participate in audio chat. 1. A system for managing audio chat sessions for online video games or applications comprising:an online video game or application execution engine to execute an online video game or application in response to input from one or more users of the video game or application and to responsively generate audio and video of the video game or application; anda chat subsystem to establish audio chat sessions with the one or more users and one or more spectators to the video game or application, the chat subsystem establishing a plurality of audio chat channels including a spectator channel over which the spectators participate in audio chat and a user channel over which the users participate in audio chat.2. The system as in wherein one or more spectators and users of the video game or application may join the spectator channel to participate in audio chat over the spectator channel and wherein users may join the user channel to participate in audio chat with other users over the user channel.3. The system as in wherein a first user channel is established for a first team of users playing the video game or application and a second user channel is established for a second team of users playing ...

Method, Apparatus and Applications for Biometric Identification, Authentication, Man-to-Machine Communications and Sensor Data Processing

Applications, algorithms and technologies are disclosed for machine-to-machine communications, biometric identification and sensor data fusion. Applications include authentication, e-commerce and energy management. Algorithms include biometric signature generation and identification, as well as data fusion methods. Technologies include biometric and environmental sensing and identification. Advantages of the invention include more robust person authentication, greater immunity to theft of personal property and information, and enhanced building energy management. 1. A method for authenticating a person's identity , the method comprising:Illuminating the person with an incident electromagnetic energy;Receiving a reflected electromagnetic energy produced by a reflection of said incident electromagnetic energy from the person's body, said reflected electromagnetic energy bearing a modulation relative to said incident electromagnetic energy and resulting from a motion of the person's anatomy;Generating a first data sequence based on said modulation;Generating an authentication token from said first data sequence; andComparing said authentication token to an embedded token to determine a match, the embedded token corresponding to the person.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting the authentication token over a network prior to said comparing said authentication token to said embedded token.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said generating an authentication token from said data sequence comprises encrypting said data sequence.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:Receiving a second data sequence generated by a biometric sensor;Wherein said authentication token is generated from said first data sequence and said second data sequence.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein said biometric sensor is one of an electrocardiogram sensor claim 4 , a laser Doppler vibrometry sensor claim 4 , a retina scan sensor claim 4 , a facial feature sensor and a ...

HIGH MOLYBDENUM MIXED METAL OXIDE CATALYSTS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF UNSATURATED ALDEHYDES FROM OLEFINS

A catalyst for the oxidation of an olefin to an unsaturated aldehyde comprising a mixed metal oxide having the formula (I): 2. The catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the M′ to M molar ratio is between 2.00 and 2.10.3. The catalyst of claim 2 , wherein the M′ to M molar ratio is 2.06.4. The catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the ACM ratio is greater than 1.00 and less than 1.80.5. The catalyst of claim 4 , wherein the ACM ratio is greater than 1.00 and less than 1.60.6. The catalyst of claim 5 , wherein the ACM ratio is greater than 1.00 and less than 1.40.7. The catalyst of claim 6 , wherein the ACM ratio is greater than 1.00 and less than 1.20.8. The catalyst of claim 7 , wherein the ACM ratio is greater than or equal to 1.06 and less than 1.20.9. The catalyst of claim 1 , wherein the mixed metal oxide further has a [Mo]between 0.4 and less than 2.0.10. The catalyst of claim 9 , wherein [Mo]is 0.9.11. The catalyst of claim 1 , further comprising from 1 wt. % to 20 wt. % of a silica binder and from 0.1 wt. % to 5 wt. % of a pore former claim 1 , where the wt. % is based on the total weight of the catalyst.13. The catalyst of claim 12 , further comprising from 1 wt. % to 20 wt. % of a silica binder and from 0.1 wt. % to 5 wt. % of a pore former claim 12 , where the wt. % is based on the total weight of the catalyst.15. The catalyst of claim 14 , further comprising from 1 wt. % to 20 wt. % of a silica binder and from 0.1 wt. % to 5 wt. % of a pore former claim 14 , where the wt. % is based on the total weight of the catalyst.17. The catalyst of claim 16 , further comprising from 1 wt. % to 20 wt. % of a silica binder and from 0.1 wt. % to 5 wt. % of a pore former claim 16 , where the wt. % is based on the total weight of the catalyst.19. The catalyst of claim 18 , further comprising from 1 wt. % to 20 wt. % of a silica binder and from 0.1 wt. % to 5 wt. % of a pore former claim 18 , where the wt. % is based on the total weight of the catalyst.21. The catalyst of claim 20 , ...

Service apparatus for turbomachine

Various embodiments include a service apparatus for a turbomachine. The service apparatus can include: a frame for coupling to an opening in the turbomachine; a bridge member operably coupled to the frame and spanning a width of the frame, the bridge member being substantially movable along a length of the frame; and a crane member operably coupled to the bridge member, the crane member being substantially movable along the width of the frame, wherein the crane member includes at least one attachment device for attaching to an object within the turbomachine.

Ophthalmic Device, and Method of Use Thereof, for Increasing Ocular Boundary Lubrication

The present invention provides an ophthalmic device, and method of use thereof, for an individual wearing an ophthalmic lens to increase ocular surface boundary lubrication. The invention device comprises an ophthalmic lens and a sacrificial mechanism disposed on the ophthalmic lens, wherein the sacrificial mechanism comprises a plurality of surface bound receptors, such as PRG4, hyaluronic acid, and DNA aptamers, that reversibly bound to a lubricating composition comprising a gel forming agent, a surfactant, or a combination thereof, effectively inhibiting or preventing protein and lipid adsorption on the surface of the lens, and mitigate shear stress and reduce the friction between the lens and the ocular surface of the individual in need. 123-. (canceled)24. An ophthalmic device comprising an ophthalmic lens with an outer surface and an inner surface and a lubricating composition comprising proteoglycan 4 (PRG4) disposed on at least a portion of the outer or inner surface , wherein the lubricating composition is in an amount effective to reduce or prevent shear stress from reaching an epithelial surface to provide ocular boundary lubrication in an ocular environment of an individual wearing the ophthalmic lens.25. The device of claim 24 , wherein the lubricating composition is reversibly bound to PRG4.26. The device of claim 25 , wherein the lubricating composition rebinds to PRG4 following a transient shearing event.27. The device of claim 24 , wherein the PRG4 interacts with one or more endogenous proteins and/or proteoglycans within tear film of the individual wearing the ophthalmic lens.28. The device of claim 24 , wherein the lubricating composition comprises a gel forming agent claim 24 , a surfactant claim 24 , or a combination thereof.29. The device of claim 28 , wherein the lubricating composition comprises at least one gel forming agent claim 28 , the at least one gel forming agent comprising an effective amount of hyaluronic acid claim 28 , sodium ...

Method For External Ear Canal Pressure Regulation To Alleviate Disorder Symptoms

A method for external ear canal pressure regulation to alleviate one or more symptoms associated with a disorder or treat one or more disorders, the method including providing a fluid transfer device which generates a fluid flow of a fluid through an earplug, the earplug having an earplug external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal wall as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure; sealably engaging the earplug of the fluid transfer device with the external ear canal wall as the barrier between the external ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure; and operating the fluid transfer device to generate the fluid flow of the fluid through the earplug to achieve an external ear canal pressure differential between the external ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure effective to alleviate a disorder symptom or treat a disorder. 1. A method for external ear canal pressure regulation to alleviate a disorder symptom or treat a disorder , comprising:providing a fluid transfer device which generates a fluid flow of a fluid through an earplug, said earplug having an earplug external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal wall as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure;sealably engaging said earplug of said fluid transfer device with said external ear canal wall as said barrier between said external ear canal pressure and said ambient pressure; andoperating said fluid transfer device to generate said fluid flow of said fluid through said earplug to achieve an external ear canal pressure differential between said external ear canal pressure and said ambient pressure effective to alleviate a disorder symptom or treat a disorder.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising adjusting said external ear canal pressure differential to alleviate one or more of said disorder symptoms or treat one or more of said disorders.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said external ...

External Ear Canal Pressure Regulation System

An external ear canal pressure regulation device including a fluid flow generator and an earpiece having a first axial earpiece conduit fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow generator, whereby the earpiece has a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure.

External Ear Canal Pressure Regulation System

An external ear canal pressure regulation device including a fluid flow generator and an earpiece having a first axial earpiece conduit fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow generator, whereby the earpiece has a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure. 1. An external ear canal pressure regulation device , comprising:a first fluid flow generator capable of generating a first fluid flow;a first earpiece having a first axial earpiece conduit which communicates between a first earpiece first end and a first earpiece second end, said first axial earpiece conduit fluidicly coupled to said first fluid flow generator, said first earpiece having a first compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage a first external ear canal of a first ear as a first barrier between a first external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein said first fluid flow generator generates said first fluid flow between said first fluid flow generator and said first axial earpiece conduit claim 1 , said first fluid flow having a first fluid volume in a range of between 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein said first fluid volume comprises a first pre-selected fluid volume in said range of between 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters.4. (canceled)5. The device of claim 1 , said first fluid flow generator capable of generating a first pressure differential between said first external ear canal pressure and said ambient pressure.6. The device of claim 5 , said first pressure differential having a first pressure differential amplitude in a range of between 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals.7. The device of claim 6 , wherein said first pressure differential amplitude comprises a first pre-selected pressure differential amplitude in said range of between 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals ...

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES FOR TISSUE RECONSTRUCTION AND WOUND HEALING TREATMENT

Disclosed are compositions containing a therapeutically effective amount of free recombinant or synthetic lubricin, a lubricin-supplemented preserved AM, or a lubricin-supplemented non-AM substrate for promoting tissue reconstruction and wound healing in a subject and the methods of using thereof. Lubricin-supplemented preserved amniotic membranes and lubricin-supplemented non-AM substrates, and methods of preparing thereof are also described. 1. A pharmaceutical composition for treating tissue reconstruction and wound healing in a subject , comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a lubricin-supplemented preserved amniotic membrane (AM) or a lubricin-supplemented non-AM substrate.2. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , wherein said preserved AM comprises a cryopreserved AM (CP-AM) or a freeze dried AM (FD-AM).3. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , wherein said lubricin-supplemented preserved AM is a FD-AM soaked in claim 1 , rehydrated with claim 1 , or incubated with lubricin.4. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , wherein said lubricin-supplemented non-AM substrate is a non-AM substrate soaked in claim 1 , rehydrated with claim 1 , or incubated with lubricin.5. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , wherein said pharmaceutical composition promotes tissue reconstruction claim 1 , prevents adhesion formation claim 1 , alleviates obstructions claim 1 , facilitates wound healing or performs any combinations thereof.6. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 5 , wherein said pharmaceutical composition promotes tissue reconstruction of an ocular surface claim 5 , an oral surface claim 5 , a periodontal surface claim 5 , an abdominal surface claim 5 , a vaginal surface claim 5 , a cervical surface claim 5 , a uterine surface claim 5 , a skin surface or a mucosal surface.7. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 5 , wherein said pharmaceutical composition prevents adhesion formation of an ocular surface claim 5 , nasolacrimal duct ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVED MANAGEMENT OF VIRTUAL MACHINE CLUSTERS

In one embodiment, a method for improved management of virtual machine clusters may include: determining a current utilization value for each of a plurality of virtual machines (VMs) in a cluster, the VMs associated with a plurality of applications; storing the current utilization values for each of the plurality of VMs in a utilization table; determining that a capacity threshold for the cluster has not been reached based on an aggregation of the current utilization values for the plurality of VMs; provisioning a new VM into the cluster; storing a default utilization value for the new VM in the utilization table; and re-determining the capacity threshold based on the aggregated stored current utilization values for the plurality of VMs and the stored default utilization value for the new VM until a maturity threshold for the new VM is reached. 17-. (canceled)8. A method for improved management of virtual machine (VM) clusters , comprising: determining a current utilization value for each of a plurality of virtual machines (VMs) in a cluster, the VMs associated with a plurality of applications;', 'storing the current utilization values for each of the plurality of VMs in a utilization table;', 'retrieving a default utilization value for a new VM in the cluster that has not met a maturity threshold from the utilization table, wherein the default utilization value is based on a utilization metric for an application that is to be associated with the new VM or a pre-set utilization value;', 'determining that a capacity threshold for the cluster has been reached based on an aggregation of the current utilization values for the plurality of VMs and the default utilization value;', 'determining that the new VM has met a maturity threshold; and', 'replacing the default utilization value with a current utilization value for the new VM in response to the maturity threshold for the new VM being reached., 'in a cluster management device comprising at least one computer ...

Reconfigurable Shoes and Apparel and Docking Assembly Therefor

Provided herein are methods for the modulation of appearance or material properties within items of apparel or equipment. Also provided herein are design articles having alterable designs. Generally, such design articles comprise (1) a microfluidic circuit, and (2) an inlet and an outlet, the alterable design capable of being modulated through use of a docking system to deliver fluid to the microfluidic circuit. 1. An article of apparel or equipment comprising a micro fluidic circuit integrated into or onto a surface of the article, the microfluidic circuit comprising a microfluidic channel with at least one segment exposed to an external surface of the article, an inlet, and an outlet, wherein the microfluidic channel connects the inlet to the outlet. This is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/389,578, which is a national stage entry of PCT/US10/45380, filed Aug. 12, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/233,776, filed 13 Aug. 2009. These applications are incorporated by reference in their entireties.The present invention relates to the modulation of appearance or material properties within items of apparel or equipment. In particular, the present invention relates to fluidic manipulation of appearance or material properties and modulation thereof, including (1) a microfluidic circuit within an item, (2) an inlet and an outlet, and (3) a docking system to deliver fluid to the microfluidic circuit.There has always been the desire to express oneself through color. The ability to modulate the appearance or material properties of apparel, equipment or other items had previously required discrete components, for instance distinct pairs of shoes to coordinate with different outfits, different belts, or different color vehicles. Further, apparel, sporting equipment and other items are often provided for consumption in a manner illustrating one or more design feature. Generally, such design features are immutable. Consumers ...

PEPTIDE INHIBITORS OF INTERLEUKIN-23 RECEPTOR AND THEIR USE TO TREAT INFLAMMATORY DISEASES

The present invention provides novel peptide inhibitors of the interleukin-23 receptor, and related compositions and methods of using these peptide inhibitors to treat or prevent a variety of diseases and disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases. 12.-. (canceled)3. A peptide inhibitor according to Formula (Z′):{'br': None, 'sup': 1', '2, 'R—X4-X5-X6-X7-X8-X9-X10-X11-X12-X13-X14-X15-R\u2003\u2003(Z′)'}or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, whereinX4 is Pen;X5 is Asn;X6 is Thr;X7 is Trp substituted with alkyl;X8 is Gln, alpha-MeLys, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeLys(Ac), beta-homoGln, Cit, Glu, Phe, Asn, Thr, Val, Aib, alpha-MeGln, alpha-MeAsn, Lys(Ac), Dab(Ac), Dap(Ac), homo-Lys(Ac), 1-Nal, 2-Nal, or Trp;X9 is Pen;X10 is unsubstituted Phe, or Phe substituted with halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, carboxy, carboxamido, 2-aminoethoxy, or 2-acetylaminoethoxy;X11 is 2-Nal, Phe(2-Me), Phe(3-Me), Phe(4-Me), Phe(3,4-dimethoxy), 1-Nal, unsubstituted Trp, or Trp substituted with cyano, halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, or alkoxy;X12 is 4-amino-4-carboxy-tetrahydropyran (THP), alpha-MeLys, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeArg, alpha-MePhe, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeLys, alpha-MeAsn, alpha-MeTyr, Ala, cyclohexylAla, Lys, or Aib;X13 is Aib, Glu, Cit, Gln, Lys(Ac), alpha-MeArg, alpha-MeGlu, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeLys, alpha-Me-Asn, alpha-MeLys(Ac), Dab(Ac), Dap(Ac), homo-Lys(Ac), Lys, pegylated Lys, b-homoGlu, or Lys(Y2-Ac), wherein Y2 is an amino acid;X14 is Asn, 2-Nap, Aib, Arg, Cit, Asp, Phe, Gly, Lys, Leu, Ala, (D)Ala, beta-Ala, His, Thr, n-Leu, Gln, Ser, (D)Ser, Tic, Trp, alpha-MeGln, alpha-MeAsn, alpha-MeLys(Ac), Dab(Ac), Dap(Ac), homo-Lys(Ac), or Lys(Ac);X15 is Leu, (D)Leu, beta-Ala, Cit, or (D)Lys;{'sup': '1', 'Ris hydrogen, a C1-C6 alkyl, a C6-C12 aryl, a C6-C12aryl-C1-C6alkyl, or a C1-C20 alkanoyl; and'}{'sup': '2', 'sub': '2', 'Ris OH or NH;'}wherein the peptide inhibitor or pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof comprises a disulfide bond between two Pen ...

ELECTRODE REMOVAL DEVICE AND VEHICLE POSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE

An electrode adjustment device and a vehicle positioning system for positioning the electrode adjustment device adjacent a furnace. The electrode adjustment device is utilized for adjusting the electrode during maintenance of the furnace (e.g., removal of the electrode for replacement or repair, repair of the refractory material, or other like furnace or electrode repair). When the electrode adjustment device is moved to a location adjacent the furnace, it is used to apply force under the bottom electrode to break the connection between the bottom electrode and the furnace. After the connection is broken the bottom electrode is pushed up into the furnace vessel by the electrode adjustment device until the electrode can be removed. After removing the bottom electrode, the electrode adjustment device is covered with debris and can be cleaned adjacent the furnace. 1. A vehicle positioning system , comprising:a vehicle system;a positioning system operatively coupled to the vehicle system, wherein the positioning system comprises a lift system operatively coupled to a support system; a lift frame having a first lift frame and a second lift frame, wherein the second lift frame is moveable with respect to the first lift frame;', 'a lift drive operatively coupled to the first lift frame or the second lift frame for moving the second lift frame with respect to the first lift frame; and', 'one or more lift couplings, wherein the one or more lift couplings are configured for operatively coupling with the support system., 'wherein the lift system compriseswherein the support system is configured for operative coupling with an electrode adjustment device for positioning the electrode adjustment device for adjusting an electrode during removal or assembly with a furnace.2. The vehicle positioning system of claim 1 , further comprising: an adjustment drive;', 'an adjustment head operatively coupled to the adjustment drive;', 'an adjustment base operatively coupled to the ...

Therapeutic Modulation of Ocular Surface Lubrication

Provided herein are ophthalmically acceptable pharmaceutical compositions comprising PRG4 or lubricant fragments and a PRG4 inducing compound. The PRG4 inducing compound in the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention upregulates PRG4 expression and localization in the ocular surface for efficient surface boundary lubrication. In some instances, pharmaceutical compositions described herein are utilized for treating ophthalmic conditions, e.g., ocular boundary deficiency and symptoms associated therewith.

CONTROLLED PRESSURE HYDROTHERMAL TREATMENT OF ODH CATALYST

The preparation of an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising Mo, V, Nb and Te using a hydrothermal step the activity and reproducibility of the catalyst is improved by conduction the hydrothermal step at higher pressures while permitting gaseous products to leave the reactor. In some instances a condenser may be upstream of the pressure relief valve. 1. A process for synthesis of a catalyst for oxidative dehydrogenation of paraffins via a hydrothermal treatment comprising:i) preparing an aqueous slurry comprising Mo, V, Nb and Te salts in a molar ratio of metal elements 1:0.3 to 3; 0.05 to 0.25; and 0.08 to 0.2 at a temperature from 25° C. to 80° C.;ii) heating slurry in a reactor to a temperature from 80° to 220° C. at a pressure equal or above the saturated water vapor pressure at the corresponding reaction temperature, for a period of time not less than 1 hour with agitation and simultaneous removal of gaseous byproduct species produced during the reaction.iii) letting the reactor cool and depressurizing the reactor and recovering the catalyst as a solid.2. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature of the reactor is from 150° C.-185° C.3. The process according to claim 2 , wherein the pressure in the reactor is from 10 psi to 190 psi (960 kPa to 1300 kPa).4. The process according to claim 1 , wherein there is a condenser upstream of a pressure control device.5. The process according to 4 claim 1 , wherein the condenser is operated at a temperature above 0° C. and below reaction temperature.6. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the gaseous species are removed by being vented from the reactor through the pressure control device.71. The process according claim 1 , wherein the gaseous species are removed from the reactor using one or more methods selected from gas absorption claim 1 , gas adsorption claim 1 , membrane separation claim 1 , and chemicals transformation.8. The process according to wherein the time of hydrothermal ...

PEPTIDE INHIBITORS OF INTERLEUKIN-23 RECEPTOR AND THEIR USE TO TREAT INFLAMMATORY DISEASES

The present invention provides novel peptide inhibitors of the interleukin-23 receptor, and related compositions and methods of using these peptide inhibitors to treat or prevent a variety of diseases and disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases. 1108-. (canceled)109. A method of treating an interleukin-23 (IL-23) receptor mediated disease or disorder in a subject in need thereof , comprising administering to the subject a peptide inhibitor according to Formula (Z′):{'br': None, 'sup': 1', '2, 'R—X4-X5-X6-X7-X8-X9-X10-X11-X12-X13-X14-X15-R\u2003\u2003(Z′)'} X4 is Pen;', 'X5 is Asn;', 'X6 is Thr;', 'X7 is Trp substituted with alkyl;', 'X8 is Gln, alpha-MeLys, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeLys(Ac), beta-homoGln, Cit, Glu, Phe, Asn, Thr, Val, Aib, alpha-MeGln, alpha-MeAsn, Lys(Ac), Dab(Ac), Dap(Ac), homo-Lys(Ac), 1-Nal, 2-Nal, or Trp;', 'X9 is Pen;', 'X10 is unsubstituted Phe, or Phe substituted with halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, carboxy, carboxamido, 2-aminoethoxy, or 2-acetylaminoethoxy;', 'X11 is 2-Nal, Phe(2-Me), Phe(3-Me), Phe(4-Me), Phe(3,4-dimethoxy), 1-Nal, unsubstituted Trp, or Trp substituted with cyano, halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, or alkoxy;', 'X12 is 4-amino-4-carboxy-tetrahydropyran (THP), alpha-MeLys, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeArg, alpha-MePhe, alpha-MeAsn, alpha-MeTyr, Ala, cyclohexylAla, Lys, or Aib;', 'X13 is Aib, Glu, Cit, Gln, Lys(Ac), alpha-MeArg, alpha-MeGlu, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeLys, alpha-Me-Asn, alpha-MeLys(Ac), Dab(Ac), Dap(Ac), homo-Lys(Ac), Lys, pegylated Lys, b-homoGlu, or Lys(Y2-Ac), wherein Y2 is an amino acid;, 'or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein'}X14 is Asn, 2-Nap, Aib, Arg, Cit, Asp, Phe, Gly, Lys, Leu, Ala, (D)Ala, beta-Ala, His, Thr, n-Leu, Gln, Ser, (D)Ser, Tic, Trp, alpha-MeGln, alpha-MeAsn, alpha-MeLys(Ac), Dab(Ac), Dap(Ac), homo-Lys(Ac), or Lys(Ac);X15 Leu, (D)Leu, beta-Ala, Cit, or (D)Lys;{'sup': '1', 'Ris hydrogen, a C1-C6 alkyl, a C6-C12 aryl, a C6-C12aryl-C1-C6alkyl, or a C1-C20 alkanoyl;'}{'sup': ...

Compostions for Treating Dry Eye Disease

The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of use thereof, for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or an undesired condition that is associated with or causes ocular boundary deficiency at the ocular surface. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises a human PRG4 protein, a lubricant fragment, homolog, or isoform thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of an ophthalmically acceptable demulcent, excipient, astringent, vasoconstrictor, emollient, sodium hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid, and surface active phospholipids, in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for topical administration. 112.-. (canceled)13. A pharmaceutical composition suitable for topical application to an ocular surface of an individual , comprising:PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of the sequence KEPAPTT (SEQ ID NO:4) at a concentration effective to reduce tear osmolarity upon topical application of the pharmaceutical composition to the ocular surface of the individual so as to relieve dysfunction of a tear film or dry eye disease or symptoms associated therewith,a polysorbate surfactant, andone or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of a salt solution, a demulcent, an excipient, an astringent, a vasoconstrictor, and an emollient.14. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 13 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of the sequence KEPAPTT (SEQ ID NO:4) at a concentration of 10-10 claim 13 ,000 μg/mL.15. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 13 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of the sequence KEPAPTT (SEQ ID NO:4) at a concentration of 50-500 μg/mL.16. The ...

Process for a Continuous Reaction with Feedstocks Derived from Bio-Renewable Resources

A process for a continuous condensation reaction with feedstocks derived from bio-renewable resources, e.g., pine chemical derived feedstock, is disclosed. The process employs at least a multi-stage mixing reactor, selected from any of a multi-stage continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR), a multi-stage horizontal continuous stirred tank reactor (HCSTR), or a continuous oscillating baffle reactor (COBR). The multi-stage mixing reactors are provided with a plurality of baffles for creating a mixing in a number of stages or cells created by the baffles, allowing the condensation reaction to proceed at a production rate at least twice that of a batch process with reactors of equivalent volume. The feedstocks derived from bio-renewable resources is selected from gum rosin, wood rosin, tall oil rosin and mixtures thereof; and polymeric fatty acids derived from bio-renewable resources such as tall oil. 1. A process for a continuous reaction with at least a feedstock derived from bio-renewable resources , which comprises: (i) a linear or a branched hydrocarbon chain having at least 4 carbon atoms and one or more C═C groups; or', '(ii) one or more fused-ring C20 compounds having one or more carboxylic acid groups and one or more C═C groups;, 'providing a first feedstock derived from bio-renewable resources selected from one or more compounds of the formula R1-COOH, wherein R1 is'}providing a second feedstock comprising at least one of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkylene diamine, and an alkylene polyamine;mixing the first feedstock and the second feedstock in a mixing tank; at least an inlet port for the feedstock in one end of the reactor, an outlet port at an opposite end of the inlet port for withdrawal of liquid products, and at least a vapor outlet on top of the reactor for removal of gaseous products,', 'a plurality of baffles positioned along a length of the reactor, for creating a plurality of reaction stages within the reactor;', 'an agitator having a plurality of ...

PEPTIDE INHIBITORS OF INTERLEUKIN-23 RECEPTOR AND THEIR USE TO TREAT INFLAMMATORY DISEASES

The present invention provides novel peptide inhibitors of the interleukin-23 receptor, and related compositions and methods of using these peptide inhibitors to treat or prevent a variety of diseases and disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases. 1. A peptide inhibitor of an interleukin-23 receptor , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof , wherein the peptide inhibitor comprises an amino acid sequence of Formula (I):{'br': None, 'X7-X8-X9-X10-X11\u2003\u2003(I)'}whereinX7 is unsubstituted Trp, or Trp substituted with cyano, halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, or alkoxy;X8 is Gln, alpha-MeLys, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeLys(Ac), beta-homoGln, Cit, Glu, Phe, Asn, Thr, Val, Aib, alpha-MeGln, alpha-MeAsn, Lys(Ac), Dab(Ac), Dap(Ac), homo-Lys(Ac), 1-Nal, 2-Nal, or Trp;X9 is Abu, Cys, (D)Cys, alpha-MeCys, (D)Pen, Pen or Pen(sulfoxide);X10 is unsubstituted Phe, or Phe substituted with halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, carboxy, carboxamido, 2-aminoethoxy, or 2-acetylaminoethoxy; andX11 is 2-Nal, Phe(2-Me), Phe(3-Me), Phe(4-Me), Phe(3,4-dimethoxy), 1-Nal, unsubstituted Trp, or Trp substituted with cyano, halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, or alkoxy;andprovided thati) at least one of X7 and X11 is Trp substituted with cyano, halo, alkyl, haloalkyl, hydroxy, or alkoxy;ii) X7 is other than 5-F substituted Trp; andiii) when X7 is unsubstituted Trp, or Trp substituted with 1-Me, 5-OH or 6-Cl; then X9 is other than Cys;andwherein the peptide inhibitor inhibits the binding of an interleukin-23 (IL-23) to an IL-23 receptor.2. The peptide inhibitor or pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof of claim 1 , wherein the peptide inhibitor comprises an amino acid sequence of Formula (II):{'br': None, 'X4-X5-X6-X7-X8-X9-X10-X11\u2003\u2003(II)'}whereinX4 is Abu, Cys, (D)Cys, alpha-MeCys, (D)Pen, Pen, or Pen(sulfoxide);X5 is Cit, Glu, Gly, Leu, Ile, beta-Ala, Ala, Lys, Asn, Pro, alpha-MeGln, alpha-MeLys, alpha-MeLeu, alpha-MeAsn, Lys(Ac), alpha-MeLys(Ac), Dab ...

CORRELATION MATRIX FOR SIMULTANEOUSLY CORRELATING MULTIPLE WELLS

Correlation matrices may be used to simultaneously correlate multiple wells. A correlation matrix may be generated for individual pairs of multiple wells. The values of elements of the correlation matrices may be determined based on matching between segments of the multiple wells and segments of one or more computational stratigraphic models. An N-dimensional space including an axis for individual wells may be generated. Directed walk may be performed within the N-dimensional space to generate paths representing scenarios of correlations for segments of the multiple wells. 1. A system for correlating multiple wells , the system comprising: obtain model information, the model information defining a set of computational stratigraphic models, individual computational stratigraphic models including multiple digital wells, the set of computational stratigraphic models including a first computational stratigraphic model;', 'obtain well information, the well information defining segments of multiple wells, the multiple wells including a first well and a second well;', 'generate a set of correlation matrices, the set of correlation matrices including a correlation matrix for individual pairs of the multiple wells, the set of correlation matrices including a first correlation matrix for the first well and the second well, wherein a dimension of the correlation matrix is defined by numbers of segments of the individual pairs of the multiple wells;', 'determine element values of the set of correlation matrices based on matching between the segments of the multiple wells and segments of the multiple digital wells in the set of computational stratigraphic models, wherein element values of the first correlation matrix is determined based on matching between the segments of the first well, the segments of the second well, and the segments of matched digital wells in the set of computational stratigraphic models; and', 'determine correlations for the segments of the multiple wells ...

OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYST

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts comprising MoVNbTeO having improved consistency of composition and a 25% conversion of ethylene at less than 420° C. and a selectivity to ethylene above 95% are prepared by treating the catalyst precursor with HOin an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL HOof a 30% solution per gram of catalyst precursor prior to calcining. 1. A method to improve the consistency of an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of the empirical formula (measured by PIXE);{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.22-0.33', '0.10-0.16', '0.15-0.19', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'}where d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide{'sub': 2', '2', '2', '2, 'comprising treating a precursor prior to calcining with HOin an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL HOof a 30% solution per gram of catalyst precursor.'}2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the precursor is prepared by a method comprising:i) forming an aqueous solution of ammonium heptamolybdate (tetrahydrate) and telluric acid at a temperature from 30° C. to 85° C. and adjusting the pH of the solution to 6.5 to 8.5 with a nitrogen containing base to form soluble salts of the metals;ii) preparing a aqueous solution of vanadyl sulphate at a temperature from room temperature to 80° C.;iii) mixing the solutions from steps i) and ii) together;{'sub': 2', '4', '3, 'iv) slowly adding a solution of niobium monoxide oxalate (NbO(COH)) to the solution of step iii) to form a slurry;'}v) heating the resulting slurry in an autoclave under an inert atmosphere at a temperature from 150° C. to 190° C. for not less than 10 hours.3. The method according to claim 2 , the resulting solid from step v) is filtered and washed with deionized water claim 2 , and drying the washed solid for a time from 4 to 10 hours at a temperature from 70 to 100° C.4. The method according to claim 3 , further comprising calcining the catalyst in an inert atmosphere at a temperature from 200° C. to 600° C. for a time from 1 to 20 hours.5. The method according to claim 4 ...

ANGIOGENESIS INHIBITORS

Described herein are methods of inhibiting angiogenesis, and treating or preventing a disease or disorder (or symptoms thereof) associated with angiogenesis, wherein an anti-angiogenesis compound is administered to a subject. 1. A method of inhibiting angiogenesis in a subject comprising administering to the subject an effective amount danazol.2. A sustained release device for implantation in a patient and sustained release of an anti-angiogenic compound for at least a period of 30 days , wherein the anti-angiogenic compound is danazol.3. A sustained release drug device adapted for implantation in or adjacent to the eye of a patient , the drug delivery device comprising: (i) a drug core comprising anti-angiogenic compound , wherein the anti-angiogenic compound is danazol; (ii) an impermeable coating disposed about the core that is substantially impermeable to the passage of the anti-angiogenic compound , having one or more openings therein which permit diffusion of the anti-angiogenic compound , and which is substantially insoluble and inert in body fluids and compatible with body tissues; and , optionally , (iii) one or more permeable polymer members or coatings disposed in the flow path of the anti-angiogenic compound through said openings in said impermeable coating , said permeable polymer being permeable to the passage of the anti-angiogenic compound , and which is substantially insoluble and inert in body fluids and compatible with body tissues; wherein the impermeable coating and permeable polymer members or coatings are disposed about the drug core so as to produce , when implanted , a substantially constant rate of release of the anti-angiogenic compound from the device.4. A sustained release formulation for depot injection in a patient and sustained release of an anti-angiogenic compound for at least a period of 30 days , wherein the formulation includes:a viscous gel formulation comprising a bioerodible, biocompatible, polymer; andan anti-angiogenic agent ...

External Ear Canal Pressure Regulation System

An external ear canal pressure regulation device including a fluid flow generator and an earpiece having a first axial earpiece conduit fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow generator, whereby the earpiece has a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure. 1168-. (canceled)169. An external ear canal pressure regulation device comprising:a first fluid flow generator which generates a first fluid flow capable of producing a first pressure differential between a first external ear canal pressure within a sealed first external ear canal and an ambient pressure, said first pressure differential comprising a first pressure differential amplitude;a first pressure sensor which generates a first pressure sensor signal which varies based upon change in said first pressure differential amplitude; and 'a first pressure differential amplitude comparator which compares a pre-selected first pressure differential amplitude to said first pressure differential amplitude, said first pressure sensor signal analyzer generating a first pressure differential amplitude compensation signal to which a first fluid flow generator controller is responsive to control said first fluid flow generator to achieve said pre-selected first pressure differential amplitude.', 'a first pressure sensor signal analyzer comprising170. The device of claim 169 , wherein said first pressure differential amplitude is in a range of between 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals.171. The device of claim 170 , wherein said pre-selected first pressure differential amplitude is in a range of between 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals.172. The device of claim 171 , further comprising:a first pressure differential amplitude selection element, said first fluid flow generator controller responsive to operation of said first pressure differential amplitude selection element to regulate operation of said ...

RECONFIGURABLE APPAREL MANUFACTURE AND BUSINESS PROCESSES

Provided herein are methods for the modulation of appearance or material properties within items of apparel or equipment. Also provided herein are design articles having alterable designs. 1. An article of apparel or equipment comprising one or more microfluidic circuits integrated into the article , each comprising an inlet , and an outlet , wherein a microfluidic channel connects an inlet to an outlet , a connector to provide mechanical access to the inlet and outlet , and variations in density , angle or color of the plurality of microfluidic channels allow the user to define an appearance through use of a docking station.2. (canceled)3. The article of claim 1 , wherein the docking station comprises a manually actuated plunger assembly claim 1 , a fluid cartridge claim 1 , a waste cartridge claim 1 , and an integrated connector.4. The article of claim 3 , wherein the docking station further comprises a ratcheted syringe in the waste cartridge claim 3 , and a syringe nub in the fluid cartridge.5. The article of claim 3 , wherein the connector comprises a freely rotating screw ring and tapered ports to allow an interference seal to the female connector.6. (canceled)7. The article of claim 1 , wherein the docking station comprises a fluid cartridge claim 1 , a waste cartridge filled with a vacuum claim 1 , and an integrated connector.8. The article of claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises a dry break connector.9. (canceled)10. (canceled)11. A system for configuring the design of a design element comprising a microfluidic circuit claim 1 , the system comprising:(a). a module configured to set a color sequence for filling the microfluidic circuit with one or more colored fluid; and(b). a module configured to set the flow rate or pressure of fluid filled into the microfluidic channel.12. The system of claim 11 , further comprising a module configured to access a remote server comprising color sequence claim 11 , flow rate claim 11 , and/or pressure information for ...

TURBINE CASING JACK

An apparatus for lifting an inner casing of a turbine includes a base, an arm, a guide roller, and an adjustment system. The arm has a first end and a second end, and is pivotally connected to the base intermediate the first end and the second end. The guide roller is operatively coupled to the first end of the arm to rotatably engage an exterior surface of the inner casing, and an adjustment system extending from the base and engaging the arm to change an angular position of the arm relative to the base and adjust a position of the guide roller relative to the exterior surface of the inner casing. 1. A roller jack for rotatably supporting an inner casing of a turbine , the roller jack comprising:a base including a mounting element configured to couple to an outer casing of the turbine;an arm pivotally connected to the base, the arm having a first end and a second end;a guide roller rotatably positioned at the first end of the arm, the guide roller configured to rotatably engage an exterior surface of the inner casing of the turbine; andan adjustment system configured to adjustably pivot the arm relative to the base to adjust a position of the guide roller relative to the exterior surface of the inner casing.2. The roller jack of claim 1 , wherein the mounting element includes a flange claim 1 , the flange surrounding at least a portion of the arm.3. The roller jack of claim 2 , wherein the mounting element further comprises a shim approximately matching the shape of the flange and configured to mate with the flange.4. The roller jack of claim 2 , wherein the flange includes a plurality of apertures claim 2 , each aperture configured to receive a fastener for mounting the base to the outer casing of the turbine.5. The roller jack of claim 1 , wherein a pivot pin pivotally connects the arm to the base.6. The roller jack of claim 5 , wherein the pivot pin extends through the arm and through at least a portion of the base.7. The roller jack of claim 5 , wherein the arm ...

PROCESS FOR PRODUCING PROPYLENE AND AROMATICS FROM BUTENES BY METATHESIS AND AROMATIZATION

The disclosure is for a process for producing propylene and hexene (along with ethylene, pentenes, product butenes, heptenes and octenes) by metathesis from butenes (iso-, 1- and cis and trans 2-) and pentenes and then aromatizing the hexenes (along with higher olefins, such as heptenes and octenes) to benzene (along with toluene, xylenes, ethylbenzene and styrene). Since the desired products of the metathesis reaction are propylene and hexene, the feed to the metathesis reaction has a molar ratio for 1-butene:2-butene which favors production of propylene and 3-hexene with the concentration of hexenes and higher olefins in the metathesis product being up to 30 mole %. An isomerization reactor may be used to obtain the desired molar ratio of 1-butene:2-butene for the feed composition into the metathesis reactor. After the metathesis reaction, of hexene and higher olefins are separated for aromatization to benzene and other aromatics. 1. A process for producing propylene and aromatics comprising:a) reacting in a metathesis reactor a hydrocarbon feed mixture comprising 1-butene, 2-butene and, optionally, isobutene in the presence of a metathesis catalyst at conditions to produce a product comprising ethylene, propylene, product butenes, pentenes, hexenes and higher olefins;b1) separating from the product and recycling to the metathesis reactor the pentenes, the butenes, and optionally, the ethylene;b2) separating the propylene from the product;b3) separating the hexenes and higher olefins from the product; andc) reacting the hexenes and higher olefins to aromatics in the presence of an aromatization catalyst,wherein in step a) the molar ratio of 1-butene:2-butene in the hydrocarbon feed is in the range of from about 1:6 to about 6:1.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the metathesis catalyst is WOon SiO claim 1 , MoOon AlOor ReOon AlO.3. The process of claim 1 , wherein the concentration of hexenes and higher olefins is up to 30%.4. The process of claim 1 , wherein the ...

TURBINE TRANSITION PIECE ALIGNMENT APPARATUS AND METHOD

Various embodiments include alignment systems for turbines. In various particular embodiments, an apparatus for aligning an end of a transition piece (TP) with an outlet of a combustor component is disclosed. The apparatus can include: a mount configured to attach to the combustor component proximate the outlet; a hinge component pivotably connected to the mount, the hinge component having an axis of motion substantially perpendicular with a primary axis of the combustor component; a dummy transition piece (dummy TP) component fixedly attached to the hinge component for pivoting with the hinge component; and an adjustment apparatus having a first end fixedly attached to the dummy TP, and a second end with an actuatable adjustment member for modifying a position of the dummy TP. 1. An apparatus for aligning an end of a transition piece (TP) with an outlet of a combustor component , the apparatus comprising:a mount configured to attach to the combustor component proximate the outlet;a hinge component pivotably connected to the mount, the hinge component having an axis of motion substantially perpendicular with a primary axis of the combustor component;a dummy transition piece (dummy TP) component fixedly attached to the hinge component for pivoting with the hinge component; andan adjustment apparatus having a first end fixedly attached to the dummy TP, and a second end with an actuatable adjustment member for modifying a position of the dummy TP.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a fastener for attaching the mount to the combustor component.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the dummy TP includes a plurality of measurement apertures for receiving at least one gauge device to measure a clearance proximate each of the plurality of apertures.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the actuatable adjustment member includes at least one measurement aperture for indicating the position of the dummy TP.5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the at least one ...

Turbine transition piece (tp) apparatus and method

Various embodiments include an apparatus for installing or removing a transition piece (TP) in a gas turbine. The apparatus can include: a control arm assembly sized to rest within an opening in the gas turbine; a guide system coupled to the control arm assembly, the guide system for transporting the TP within the opening in the gas turbine; and a counter balance coupled to the guide system, the counter balance for countering weight of the TP during the installing or the removing of the TP in the gas turbine.

Macrolide compounds and their use in liver stage malaria and related disease

A novel quantum-based computational process for drug discovery and design was used to identify potential novel liver-stage anti-malarial therapeutic molecules. The approach combined the latest big-data advances in high-throughput bioassay development with fundamental scientific knowledge to generate new pharmaceutical leads. Several molecules with no previous association with anti-parasitical activity were identified. These molecules and there use in prevention and/or treatment of Plasmodium infections are provided.

Method for Therapeutic Replenishment and Enrichment of Ocular Surface Lubrication

The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of use thereof, for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or an undesired condition that is associated with or causes discomfort at the ocular surface. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises a human PRG4 protein, or a lubricating fragment thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable vehicle. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of an ophthalmically acceptable demulcent, excipient, astringent, vasoconstrictor, emollient, sodium hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid, and surface active phospholipids, in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for topical administration.

Low pressure gas release hydrothermal and peroxide treatment of odh catalyst

The preparation of an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising Mo, V, Nb and Te using a hydrothermal step. In some embodiments, the activity and reproducibility of the catalyst is improved by conducting the hydrothermal step while permitting gaseous products to leave the reactor. In some instances a condenser may be upstream of the outlet of the reactor.

FACILITATING THE EXECUTION OF TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDERS

Methods () utilizing a network () of computing systems () facilitate execution of a transaction () between a consumer () and a provider (). Preference data () defined by the consumer () is stored () in a database (). When a request for the transaction () is detected () at a transaction site (), a consumer identifier () for the consumer () is utilized at the transaction site () to retrieve () the preference data () from the database (). The preference data () identifies one or more products () offered by the provider () and preferred by the consumer (). The transaction is performed () at the transaction site () to provide the product () to the consumer () in response to the retrieved preference data (). 1. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for facilitating execution of a transaction between a consumer and a provider comprising:a data storage element having a database stored therein; andexecutable code for instructing a processor to perform operations comprising: determining a selection by said consumer of providers from said index, said provider being one of said providers;', 'capturing, from said consumer, said preference data particular to each of said providers;', 'collating said preference data received from said consumer in said database for said providers; and', 'associating said preference data for said providers with said consumer identifier of said consumer;, 'storing preference data defined by said consumer in said database, said storing operation includingdetecting a request for said transaction at a transaction site of said provider;utilizing a consumer identifier for said consumer at said transaction site to retrieve said preference data from said database, said preference data identifying a product offered by said provider and preferred by said consumer; andproviding said preference data to said transaction site to enable said transaction and provide said product to said consumer.2. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium as ...

MODULAR LOCKING CONNECTORS FOR PORTABLE HARNESS SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES

This disclosure relates to modular locking connectors that enable discrete and fully separate components to be easily, quickly, and interchangeably connected together to result in a fully functional buoyancy compensator device. These separate components may include shoulders, waistbands, back panels, bladders or other buoyancy chambers, pockets including those for ballasting weights, and accessories such as knives, lights, signaling devices and the like. 1. A modular locking connector comprising:a male portion having a substantially flat base, the flat base defining an XY plane, and a post, having a length and an interior, the length of the post defining a Z plane, protruding perpendicularly from the flat base, the post including an enlarged top with a recess, and the post including a cutout, aligned in the XY plane, to allow insertion of a release tool, and the interior surface of the post having a ridge; anda female portion having a substantially flat base, a raised receiving area with a retaining channel including a lip, and a lock including a flexible end and locking end, wherein, when engaged with the male portion, the female portion is freely rotating about the male portion.2. The modular locking connectors of wherein there is an area of reduced thickness around the perimeter of the flat base.3. The modular locking connector of wherein the interior surface of the post has a ridge.4. The modular locking connector of where the post is cylindrical in shape.5. The modular locking connector of wherein the lock of the female portion when engaged with the male portion is releasable.6. The modular locking connector of wherein the lock of the female portion includes an engaging surface with a slanted edge.7. The modular locking connector of wherein the lock of the female portion includes an engaging surface with a beveled edge.8. The modular locking connector of wherein an edge of the recess of the male post portion includes an engaging surface with a slanted edge.9. ...

TANK SUPPORT

This disclosure relates to tank wedge connectors to support cylindrical objects, for example to support scuba tanks, particularly designed for use in underwater operations on swimming and diving gear. An embodiment of the tank wedge connectors includes arranging the tank wedge connectors in an opposing pair, forming a cradle. Another embodiment of the disclosed tank wedge connectors includes a rail component which the wedge connectors can slide on to separate and expand, with one of the rails including detents for the wedges to be positioned and fixed at a desired spacing. A third embodiment of these tank wedge connectors includes being mounted to a flexible surface which allows the connectors to conform to cylindrical objects of varying radii. 1. A wedge connector for engaging a radiused object , comprising two supports positioned in opposition to form a cradle; each support consisting of a substantially flat base , a slot , and a curved upper surface.2. The wedge connector of claim 1 , wherein the slot is predominantly curved3. The wedge connector of wherein there is an area of reduced thickness around the perimeter.4. The wedge connector for engaging a radiused object of claim 3 , wherein the curved-shape upper surface of each support has a radius to accept an object to be supported.5. The wedge connector for engaging a radiused object of claim 3 , wherein the object to be supported is a tank having a radius and length.6. The wedge connector for engaging a round object of claim 5 , wherein the tank is a scuba tank.7. The wedge connector for engaging a radiused object of further including a slide having detents onto which the supports are positioned providing adjustment of a distance between the supports.8. The wedge connector for engaging a radiused object of wherein the slide includes two rails and at least one rail having ridges to control the adjustment of the distance between the supports.9. The wedge connector for engaging a radiused object of wherein the ...

CORD CONNECTOR

This disclosure relates to a modular cord connector that enables two cords to connect together and release. An embodiment of this cord connector disclosure is designed for use on cords integral to a gas release on buoyancy compensator devices. The preferred embodiment of this cord connector, shown for use on a buoyancy compensator device, includes modular male and female portions which include a T-shaped post on the male portion and a pathway with detents configured to retain the male portion when engaged with the female portion. 1. A modular cord connector comprising:a male portion, having opposite ends and an aperture within one end, a cord for attachment to the male portion and defining a cord axis when the cord is pulled through the aperture, an enlarged chamber in communication with the aperture which at least partially covers the end of the cord, and a post perpendicular to the cord axis; anda female portion, having opposite ends and an aperture within one end, the cord being attached to the female portion, and the female portion having an enlarged chamber in communication with the aperture which at least partially covers the end of the cord, and a pathway into which the male portion is inserted.2. The modular cord connector of wherein the pathway is along the cord axis.3. The modular cord connector of further including a first cord and a second cord claim 1 , wherein the male portion is connected to the first cord and the female portion is connected to the second cord.4. The modular cord connector of wherein the post is T-shaped.5. The modular cord connector of further including raised areas on the pathway of the female portion forming detents providing resistance to removal when the male portion is inserted into the female portion.6. The modular cord connector of wherein the male portion in engaged with the female portion and the detents formed in the female portion prevent removal of the male portion from the female portion upon engagement.7. The modular ...

System For Alleviating Symptoms Of A Neurological Disorder

An external ear canal pressure regulation device including a fluid flow generator and an earpiece having a first axial earpiece conduit fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow generator, whereby the earpiece has a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure. 1193-. (canceled)194. A system for alleviating one or more symptoms of a neurological disorder , comprising:an earpiece adapted for insertion into an external ear canal;a vibrator coupled to said earpiece; anda controller coupled to said vibrator, said controller operable to vibrate said vibrator to deliver forces to said earpiece;wherein said forces are effective to alleviate said one or more symptoms of said neurological disorder.195. The system of claim 194 , wherein said symptom comprises a headache.196. The system of claim 194 , wherein said symptom comprises a migraine.197. The system of claim 194 , further comprising:a power source coupled to said controller;wherein said vibrator comprises a diaphragm coupled to said power source and also to said earpiece; andwhereby upon applying power to said diaphragm via said controller, said diaphragm is vibrated to thereby apply said forces via said earpiece to said external ear canal.198. The system of claim 194 , wherein said forces are effective to deflect a tympanic membrane of said external ear canal.199. The system of claim 198 , wherein deflection of said tympanic membrane modulates one or more components of the trigeminal system.200. The system of claim 194 , wherein said controller is operable to cause said vibrator to deliver said forces to said external ear canal continuously over a duration of time.201. The system of claim 194 , wherein said controller is operable to cause said vibrator to deliver said forces to said external ear canal periodically over a duration of time.202. The system of claim 194 , wherein said controller is operable to ...

SALTS AND POLYMORPHS OF CETHROMYCIN FOR THE TREATMENT OF DISEASE

Disclosed herein are new salts and polymorphs of cethromycin for the treatment of diseases due to infection by bacteria and certain protozoans, including, for example, malaria, Babesosis, Toxoplasmosis, diarrheal disease, respiratory disease, sexually transmitted bacterial infections, and some bioterror bacteria, including, for example, plague, tularemia and post-inhalation anthrax. Also disclosed herein are new salts and polymorphs of cethromycin for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, including, for example, pelvic inflammatory disease, and peptic ulcer disease. 2. The compound as recited in claim 1 , wherein a is about 1.0.3. The compound of claim 2 , wherein M is hydrochloric acid.4. The compound of claim 3 , characterized by the presence of four or more peaks with d-spacings of about 14.1 claim 3 , 12.9 claim 3 , 10.1 claim 3 , 8.8 claim 3 , 8.5 claim 3 , 6.5 claim 3 , 5.5 claim 3 , 5.1 claim 3 , 4.8 claim 3 , and 4.4 Å.5. The compound of claim 4 , characterized by the presence of six or more peaks with d-spacings of about 14.1 claim 4 , 12.9 claim 4 , 10.1 claim 4 , 8.8 claim 4 , 8.5 claim 4 , 6.5 claim 4 , 5.5 claim 4 , 5.1 claim 4 , 4.8 claim 4 , and 4.4 Å.6. The compound of claim 5 , characterized by the presence of eight or more peaks with d-spacings of about 14.1 claim 5 , 12.9 claim 5 , 10.1 claim 5 , 8.8 claim 5 , 8.5 claim 5 , 6.5 claim 5 , 5.5 claim 5 , 5.1 claim 5 , 4.8 claim 5 , and 4.4 Å.7. The compound of claim 3 , characterized by the presence of four or more peaks with d-spacings of about 16.5 claim 3 , 14.5 claim 3 , 10.5 claim 3 , 9.1 claim 3 , 8.3 claim 3 , 7.8 claim 3 , 7.6 claim 3 , 5.2 claim 3 , 4.7 claim 3 , and 4.1 Å.8. The compound of claim 7 , characterized by the presence of six or more peaks with d-spacings of about 16.5 claim 7 , 14.5 claim 7 , 10.5 claim 7 , 9.1 claim 7 , 8.3 claim 7 , 7.8 claim 7 , 7.6 claim 7 , 5.2 claim 7 , 4.7 claim 7 , and 4.1 Å.9. The compound of claim 8 , characterized by the presence of eight or more ...

STIMULATION OF HUMAN MEIBOMIAN GLAND FUNCTION

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for stimulating meibomian gland epithelial cell function by administering to the ocular surface or immediate vicinity of an eye of a subject an effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition containing a PLD-inducing compound, such as the cationic amphiphilic drugs (e.g. azithromycin), androgen or an androgen analogue with androgen effectiveness, corticosteroid, progesterone, IGF-1 or an IGF-1 analogue (e.g. insulin), GH, and mixtures thereof. The pharmaceutical compositions are effective to treat a variety of aliments to the eye including meibomian gland dysfunction, evaporative dry eye disease, lipid abnormalities in meibum or the tear film, and autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome. 1. A method for stimulating of human meibomian gland epithelial cell function , the method comprising:preparing a topical formulation of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutic agent independently selected from the group consisting of 2% by mass/volume or less of a PLD-inducing compound, 0.2% by mass/volume or less of androgen or an analogue, 1% by mass/volume or less of corticosteroid, 1% by mass/volume or less of progesterone, 1 μM or less of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), 50 μM or less of growth hormone (GH), and mixtures thereof; andadministering the topical formulation to the ocular surface of a subject or to an area immediately adjacent thereto.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the topical formulation is applied to the ocular surface of a subject.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the topical formulation is applied to a region of the eye immediately adjacent to the ocular surface.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pharmaceutical composition includes hyaluronate.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pharmaceutical composition includes at least one electrolyte selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride claim 1 , potassium chloride claim 1 , sodium bicarbonate claim 1 , potassium bicarbonate ...

APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING OF EQUIPMENT

Embodiments of the present disclosure include apparatuses and systems used for the positioning of equipment. An apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a height adjustable table; a platform coupled to the height adjustable table; a tilt adjuster coupled to the platform, the tilt adjuster being configured to tilt the platform relative to the height adjustable table; an equipment support structure slidably connected to the platform, the equipment support structure being configured to support a piece of equipment; a drive mechanism coupled to the platform and configured to slidably move the equipment support structure across the platform; and a bracket coupled to the equipment support structure, wherein the bracket is configured to removably attach the piece of equipment. 1. An apparatus comprising:a height adjustable table;a platform coupled to the height adjustable table;a tilt adjuster coupled to the platform, the tilt adjuster being configured to tilt the platform relative to the height adjustable table;an equipment support structure slidably connected to the platform, the equipment support structure being configured to support a piece of equipment;a drive mechanism coupled to the platform and configured to slidably move the equipment support structure across the platform; anda bracket coupled to the equipment support structure, wherein the bracket is configured to removably attach the piece of equipment.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a rotatable coupler vertically coupling the height adjustable table to the platform claim 1 , the platform being rotatable about the rotatable coupler.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the equipment support structure is configured to support a mass of up to approximately 1000 kilograms.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a rotatable member coupled to the bracket claim 1 , wherein the rotatable member is configured to rotate the piece of equipment about an axial ...

Compostions for Treating Dry Eye Disease

The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of use thereof, for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or an undesired condition that is associated with or causes ocular boundary deficiency at the ocular surface. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises a human PRG4 protein, a lubricant fragment, homolog, or isoform thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of an ophthalmically acceptable demulcent, excipient, astringent, vasoconstrictor, emollient, sodium hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid, and surface active phospholipids, in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for topical administration. 1. A pharmaceutical composition suitable for topical application to an ocular surface comprising:PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of an amino acid sequence at least 60% identical to KEPAPTT (SEQ ID NO:4) at a concentration effective to relieve eye discomfort, dry eye disease, or symptoms associated therewith, andan ophthalmically balanced salt solution.2. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof at a concentration of 10-10 claim 1 ,000 μg/mL.3. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof at a concentration of 50-500 μg/mL.4. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , further comprising sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid.5. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , further comprising a surface active phospholipid.6. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , wherein the salt solution comprises at least three different electrolytes selected from the group consisting of sodium phosphate claim 1 , sodium chloride claim 1 , potassium chloride claim 1 , sodium bicarbonate claim 1 ...

External Ear Canal Pressure Regulation Device

An external ear canal pressure regulation device including a fluid flow generator, an earpiece having an axial earpiece bore, and a valved conduit fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow generator and the axial earpiece bore, whereby the earpiece has a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure. 1. An external ear canal pressure regulation device , comprising:a fluid flow generator operable to generate a fluid flow;a valved conduit fluidicly coupled to said fluid flow generator, said valved conduit having a first fluid flow conduit interruptible by a first valve to unidirectionally regulate said fluid flow in said first fluid flow conduit; andan earpiece having an axial earpiece bore which communicates between an earpiece first end and an earpiece second end, said axial earpiece bore fluidicly coupled to said valved conduit opposite said fluid flow generator, said earpiece having a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure.24-. (canceled)5. The device of claim 1 , wherein said valved conduit has a configuration which removably couples to said fluid flow generator and said earpiece.6. The device of claim 5 , wherein said valved conduit couples in a first configuration with said fluid flow generator and said earpiece to unidirectionally regulate said fluid flow in a first direction in said first fluid flow conduit.7. The device of claim 6 , wherein said valved conduit couples in a second configuration with said fluid flow generator and said earpiece to unidirectionally regulate said fluid flow in a second direction in said first fluid flow conduit.8. The device of claim 1 , wherein said first valve divides said first fluid flow conduit into a first portion proximate a first fluid flow conduit first end and a second portion proximate ...

MOLYBDENUM-VANADIUM-BERYLLIUM-BASED OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYST MATERIALS

This document relates to oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials that include molybdenum, vanadium, beryllium, oxygen, and optionally aluminum. 1. A catalyst material , comprising:molybdenum;vanadium;beryllium; andoxygen, a molar ratio of molybdenum to vanadium is from 1:0.25 to 1:0.65;', 'a molar ratio of molybdenum to beryllium is from 1:0.25 to 1:0.85; and', 'oxygen is present at least in an amount to satisfy the valency of any present metal oxides., 'wherein2. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the molar ratio of molybdenum to vanadium is from 1:0.35 to 1:0.55.3. (canceled)4. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the molar ratio of molybdenum to beryllium is from 1:0.35 to 1:0.75.5. (canceled)6. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has a 35% conversion temperature of from about 300° C. to about 400° C.78.-. (canceled)9. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has a selectivity to ethylene of from about 65% to 99%.1011.-. (canceled)12. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has an amorphous phase of from 45 wt. % to 75 wt. %.13. (canceled)14. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has an average crystallite size of greater than 50 nm.1516.-. (canceled)17. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has a mean particle size from 0.5 μm to 10 μm.1819.-. (canceled)20. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has at least one XRD diffraction peak (2θ degrees) selected from the group consisting of 6.5±0.2 claim 1 , 7.8±0.2 claim 1 , 8.9±0.2 claim 1 , 10.8±0.2 claim 1 , 13.2±0.2 claim 1 , 14.0±0.2 claim 1 , 22.1±0.2 claim 1 , 23.8±0.2 claim 1 , 25.2±0.2 claim 1 , 26.3±0.2 claim 1 , 26.6±0.2 claim 1 , 27.2±0.2 claim 1 , 27.6±0.2 claim 1 , 28.2±0.2 claim 1 , 29.2±0.2 claim 1 , 30.5±0.2 claim 1 , and 31.4±0.2 claim 1 , and wherein the XRD is obtained using CuKα radiation.21. A catalyst material claim 1 , ...

MOLYBDENUM-VANADIUM-IRON- AND/OR MOLYBDENUM-VANADIUM-ALUMINIUM-BASED OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYST MATERIALS

This document relates to oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials that include molybdenum, vanadium, oxygen, and iron; oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials that include molybdenum, vanadium, oxygen, and aluminum; and oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst materials that include molybdenum, vanadium, oxygen, iron, and aluminum. 1. A catalyst material , comprising:molybdenum;vanadium;oxygen; andiron, a molar ratio of molybdenum to vanadium is from 1:0.25 to 1:0.50;', 'a molar ratio of molybdenum to iron is from 1:0.25 to 1:5.5; and', 'oxygen is present at least in an amount to satisfy the valency of any present metal oxides., 'wherein2. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the molar ratio of molybdenum to vanadium is from 1:0.30 to 1:0.45.34.-. (canceled)5. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the molar ratio of molybdenum to iron is from 1:3 to 1:5.5.615.-. (canceled)16. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has a 35% conversion temperature of from about 300° C. to about 400° C.1718.-. (canceled)19. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst material has a selectivity to ethylene of from about 65% to 99%.20. (canceled)21. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the iron comprises Fe(III).22. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the iron comprises amorphous iron.23. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the iron comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of an iron oxide and an iron oxide hydroxide.2427.-. (canceled)28. The catalyst material of claim 1 , wherein at least a first portion of the iron comprises a goethite claim 1 , and at least a second portion of the iron comprises a hematite.2981.-. (canceled)82. A catalyst material claim 1 , comprising:molybdenum;vanadium;oxygen; andaluminum, a molar ratio of molybdenum to vanadium is from 1:0.1 to 1:0.50;', 'a molar ratio of molybdenum to aluminum is from 1: ...

CATALYST FOR ETHANE ODH

A catalyst for oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of ethane with an empirical formula Mo—V—Te—Nb—Pd—O produced using a process comprising impregnation of the Pd component on the surface of the catalyst following a calcination step using a Pd compound free of halogens. The resulting catalyst can be used in both diluted and undiluted ODH processes and shows higher than expected activity without any loss of selectivity. 1. An oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula{'br': None, 'sub': a', 'b', 'c', 'd', 'e', 'f, 'MoVTeNbPdO'} a, b, c, d, e, and f are the relative atomic amounts of the elements Mo, V, Te, Nb, Pd and O, respectively; and', 'when a=1, b=0.01 to 1.0, c=0.01 to 1.0, d=0.01 to 1.0, 0.001 Подробнее

CATALYST FOR ETHANE ODH

A catalyst for oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of ethane with an empirical formula Mo—V—Te—Nb—Pd—O produced using a process comprising impregnation of the Pd component on the surface of the catalyst following a calcination step using a Pd compound free of halogens. The resulting catalyst can be used in both diluted and undiluted ODH processes and shows higher than expected activity without any loss of selectivity. 1. A process for preparing an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula{'br': None, 'sub': a', 'b', 'c', 'd', 'e', 'f, 'MoVTeNbPdO'} a, b, c, d, e and f are the relative atomic amounts of the elements Mo, V, Te, Nb, Pd, and O, respectively; and', 'a is 1, b is from 0.01 to 1.0, c is from 0.01 to 1.0, d is from 0.01 to 0.1.0, e is from 0.0001 to less than 0.10, and f is dependent on the oxidation state of the other elements;, 'wherein'} admixing compounds of elements Mo, V, Te, and Nb, in a solvent comprising water to produce a first mixture;', 'heating the first mixture in a first pressurized vessel at a temperature of from 100° C. to 200° C.;', 'recovering a first insoluble material from the first pressurized vessel;', 'subjecting the first recovered insoluble material to a calcining at a temperature of from 500° C. to 700° C. under an inert atmosphere to produce a calcined product;', {'sub': 3', '4', '3', '2', '3', '2', '3', '2, 'contacting the calcined product with an aqueous solution comprising a Pd compound to form second mixture, wherein the aqueous solution comprising the Pd compound is prepared from a Pd compound chosen from [Pd(NH)](NO), Pd(HCO), Pd(CHCOO)an analogous Pd containing salt, or a combination thereof;'}, 'subjecting the second mixture to drying; and', 'recovering a second insoluble material from provide the catalyst, and', 'wherein the process excludes calcination after the impregnation of Pd., 'the process comprising2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the first mixture in the first ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ANALYSIS OF SUBSURFACE DATA

A method is described for analysis of subsurface data including the use of physics-based modeling and experimental design that allows calculation of probabilities of physical subsurface properties. The method may include calculations of key controlling parameters. The method may include using multiple dimension scaling. The method may be executed by a computer system. 1. A computer-implemented method of subsurface data uncertainty analysis , comprising:a. receiving, at a computer processor, subsurface data representative of a subsurface asset;b. identifying key controlling parameters for the subsurface volume of interest;c. determining maximum possible ranges for each of the key controlling parameters;d. applying experimental design methods to generate initial set of model input parameters corresponding to an initial set of scenarios wherein the initial set of scenarios lie within the maximum possible ranges;e. creating models for the subsurface asset corresponding to each of the input parameter combinations as given by the experimental design using physics-based modeling;f. comparing each of the models with the subsurface data representative of the subsurface asset and adding models that are consistent with the subsurface data to an ensemble of digital analogs for the subsurface volume of interest;g. developing statistical predictions for any specific property for the subsurface asset using the ensemble of the digital analogs; andh. displaying, on a graphical interface, the statistical predictions.2. The method of wherein the key controlling parameters include one or more of basin topography claim 1 , subsidence rate claim 1 , sea level and sea level changes claim 1 , source location for sediment supply claim 1 , grain sizes and types distribution of the sediment supply claim 1 , and magnitude of the flow into the basin.3. The method of wherein determining maximum possible ranges includes using at least one of sea level curves claim 1 , channel geometry scaling ...

TOOL AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING TURBOMACHINE COMPONENT

A tool for installing a turbomachine component in a first dovetail slot of a first component mount is provided. The tool may include a tool mount having a body for selective fixing in a second dovetail slot of a second component mount adjacent to the first component mount. The tool may also include a lever arm including a first portion, an intermediate pivot for pivotally engaging the tool mount, and a second portion for engaging the turbine component. Actuating the lever arm against the tool mount causes the second portion of the lever arm to install the turbomachine component into the first dovetail slot of the first component. 1. A tool for installing a turbomachine component in a first dovetail slot of a first component mount , the tool comprising:a tool mount having a body for selective fixing in a second dovetail slot of a second component mount adjacent to the first component mount; anda lever arm including a first portion, an intermediate pivot for pivotally engaging the tool mount, and a second portion for engaging the turbine component,wherein actuating the lever arm against the tool mount causes the second portion of the lever arm to install the turbomachine component into the first dovetail slot of the first component mount.2. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the body has a cross-section configured to mate with at least a portion of the second dovetail slot.3. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the body has an at least partially hollow interior.4. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the tool mount further includes a spring-loaded lock configured to engage a portion of an interior surface of the second dovetail slot to temporarily fix a position of the tool mount to the second dovetail slot.5. The tool of claim 4 , wherein the spring-loaded lock includes:an actuator slidably coupled to the body;a lock member slidably positioned in the body and coupled to the actuator; anda spring biasing the actuator and the lock member to a locked position,wherein, in the locked ...

CORRELATION OF MULTIPLE WELLS USING SUBSURFACE REPRESENTATION

A subsurface representation may define simulated subsurface configuration of a simulated subsurface region. The simulated subsurface region may include simulated wells, and the simulated subsurface configuration may define simulated correlation between the simulated wells. Subsurface configuration of wells may be compared with the simulated subsurface configuration to generate similarity maps for the wells. Simulated wells may be matched to the wells based on the similarity maps and the arrangement of the wells. Correlation between the wells may be determined based on the simulated correlation between the matched simulated wells. 1. A system for correlating multiple wells , the system comprising: obtain subsurface representation information defining a subsurface representation, the subsurface representation defining simulated subsurface configuration of a simulated subsurface region including simulated wells, the simulated wells including a first simulated well and a second simulated well, the simulated subsurface configuration of the simulated subsurface region defining simulated correlation between the simulated wells such that the simulated subsurface configuration of the simulated subsurface region defines first simulated correlation between the first simulated well and the second simulated well;', 'obtain well information, the well information defining subsurface configuration of wells and spatial arrangement of the wells, the wells including a first well and a second well, and the spatial arrangement of the first well and the second well including the first well separated from the second well by a first distance;', 'generate similarity maps for the wells based on comparison of the subsurface configuration of the wells with the simulated subsurface configuration of the simulated subsurface region, individual similarity maps characterizing extent of similarity between individual ones of the wells and different locations within the simulated subsurface region, ...

DOUBLE PEROXIDE TREATMENT OF OXIDATIVE DEHYDROGENATION CATALYST

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts comprising MoVNbTeO having improved consistency of composition and a 25% conversion of ethylene at less than 420° C. and a selectivity to ethylene above 95% are prepared by treating the catalyst precursor with HOin an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL HOof a 30% solution per gram of catalyst precursor prior to calcining and treating the resulting catalyst with the equivalent amount of peroxide after calcining. 1. A method to improve the consistency of an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst of the empirical formula (measured by PIXE):{'br': None, 'sub': 1.0', '0.25-0.38', '0.10-0.16', '0.15-0.19', 'd, 'MoVTeNbO'}where d is a number to satisfy the valence of the oxide;{'sub': 2', '2', '2', '2', '2', '2', '2', '2, 'comprising treating a catalyst precursor, prior to calcining, with HOin an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL HOof a 30% solution per gram of said catalyst precursor and treating the calcined catalyst with HOin an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL HOof a 30% solution per gram of catalyst.'}2. The method according to wherein the catalyst is prepared by:i) forming an aqueous solution of ammonium heptamolybdate (tetrahydrate) and telluric acid at a temperature from 30° C. to 85° C. and adjusting the pH of the solution to from 6.5 to 8.5, with a nitrogen-containing base to form soluble salts of the metals;ii) preparing an aqueous solution of vanadyl sulphate at a temperature from room temperature to 80° C.;iii) mixing the solutions from steps i) and ii) together;{'sub': 2', '4', '3, 'iv) slowly (dropwise) adding a solution of niobium monoxide oxalate (NbO(COH)) to the solution of step iii) to form a slurry; and'}v) heating the resulting slurry in an autoclave under an inert atmosphere at a temperature from 150° C. to 190° C. for not less than 10 hours.vi) filtering and washing with deionized water, and drying the washed solid from step v) for a time from 4 to 10 hours at a temperature from 70 to 100° C.;{'sub': 2', '2, 'vii) ...

METHOD FOR EXTERNAL EAR CANAL PRESSURE REGULATION TO ALLEVIATE DISORDER SYMPTOMS

A method for external ear canal pressure regulation to alleviate one or more symptoms associated with a disorder or treat one or more disorders, the method including providing a fluid transfer device which generates a fluid flow of a fluid through an earplug, the earplug having an earplug external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal wall as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure; sealably engaging the earplug of the fluid transfer device with the external ear canal wall as the barrier between the external ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure; and operating the fluid transfer device to generate the fluid flow of the fluid through the earplug to achieve an external ear canal pressure differential between the external ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure effective to alleviate a disorder symptom or treat a disorder. 1providing a fluid transfer device which generates a fluid flow of a fluid through an earplug, said earplug having an earplug external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal wall as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure;sealably engaging said earplug of said fluid transfer device with said external ear canal wall as said barrier between said external ear canal pressure and said ambient pressure; andoperating said fluid transfer device to generate said fluid flow of said fluid through said earplug to achieve an external ear canal pressure differential between said external ear canal pressure and said ambient pressure effective to alleviate a disorder symptom or treat a disorder.. A method for external ear canal pressure regulation to alleviate a disorder symptom or treat a disorder, comprising: This United States Non-Provisional Patent Application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/377,928, filed Apr. 8, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,772,766, issued on Sep. 15, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. ...

Method for Therapeutic Replenishment and Enrichment of Ocular Surface Lubrication

The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of use thereof, for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or undesired condition that is associated with or causes ocular boundary deficiency at the ocular surface. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises a human PRG4 protein, a lubricant fragment, homolog, or isoform thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of an ophthalmically acceptable demulcent, excipient, astringent, vasoconstrictor, emollient, sodium hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid, and surface active phospholipids, in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for topical administration. 1. A method for treating dry eye disease , or symptoms associated therewith , in an individual in need thereof comprising topically administering to the ocular surface of the individual a pharmaceutical composition comprising an ophthalmically acceptable therapeutically effective concentration of PRG4.2. The method of comprising topically administering the composition together with one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of a demulcent claim 1 , an excipient claim 1 , an astringent claim 1 , a vasoconstrictor claim 1 , an emollient claim 1 , and an electrolyte salt.3. The method of wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprising the PRG4 is administered together with an ophthalmically acceptable solution of sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid.4. The method of wherein the hyaluronate salt or acid is present at a concentration of 10-100 claim 3 ,000 μg/mL.5. The method of wherein the hyaluronate salt or acid is present at a concentration of 500-5 claim 3 ,000 μg/mL.6. The method of comprising administering the composition together with an ophthalmically acceptable surface active ...

External Ear Canal Pressure Regulation System

An external ear canal pressure regulation device including a fluid flow generator and an earpiece having a first axial earpiece conduit fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow generator, whereby the earpiece has a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure. 1142-. (canceled)143. An external ear canal pressure regulation device , comprising:a first fluid flow generator capable of generating a first fluid flow;a first earpiece having a first axial earpiece conduit which communicates between first earpiece first and second ends, said first axial earpiece conduit fluidicly coupled to said first fluid flow generator, said first earpiece having a first compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage a first external ear canal of a first ear as a first barrier between a first external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure;said first fluid flow generator capable of generating a first pressure differential between said first external ear canal pressure and said ambient pressure, said first pressure differential comprising a first pressure differential amplitude;a first pressure sensor which generates a first pressure sensor signal which varies based upon change in said first pressure differential; and 'a first pressure differential amplitude comparator which compares a first pre-selected pressure differential amplitude to said first pressure differential amplitude, said first pressure sensor signal analyzer generating a first pressure differential amplitude compensation signal to which said first fluid flow generator controller is responsive to control said first fluid flow generator to achieve said first pre-selected pressure differential amplitude.', 'a first pressure sensor signal analyzer comprising144. The device of claim 143 , wherein said first pressure differential amplitude is in a range of between 0 kilopascals to about 50 ...

System and Method for Managing Audio and Video Channels for Video Game Players and Spectators

A computer-implemented system and method are described for managing audio chat for an online video game or application. For example, a system according to one embodiment comprises: an online video game or application execution engine to execute an online video game or application in response to input from one or more users of the video game or application and to responsively generate audio and video of the video game or application; and a chat subsystem to establish audio chat sessions with the one or more users and one or more spectators to the video game or application, the chat subsystem establishing a plurality of audio chat channels including a spectator channel over which the spectators participate in audio chat and a user channel over which the users participate in audio chat.

Compositions for Treating Dry Eye Disease

The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of use thereof, for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or an undesired condition that is associated with or causes ocular boundary deficiency at the ocular surface. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises a human PRG4 protein, a lubricant fragment, homolog, or isoform thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of an ophthalmically acceptable demulcent, excipient, astringent, vasoconstrictor, emollient, sodium hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid, and surface active phospholipids, in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for topical administration. 1. An eye drop suitable for topical application to an ocular surface comprising:PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of the sequence KEPAPTT at a concentration effective to relieve eye discomfort, dry eye disease, or symptoms associated therewith, andan ophthalmically balanced salt solution comprising one or more of potassium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and calcium.2. The eye drop of claim 1 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of the sequence KEPAPTT (SEQ ID NO:4) at a concentration of 10-10 claim 1 ,000 μg/mL.3. The eye drop of claim 1 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of the sequence KEPAPTT (SEQ ID NO:4) at a concentration of 50-500 μg/mL.4. The eye drop of claim 1 , further comprising sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid.5. The eye drop of claim 1 , further comprising a surface active phospholipid.6. The eye drop of claim 1 , wherein the salt solution comprises at least three different electrolytes selected from the group consisting of sodium phosphate claim 1 , sodium chloride claim 1 , ...

System and Method for Managing Audio and Video Channels for Video Game Players and Spectators

A computer-implemented system and method are described for managing audio chat for an online video game or application. For example, a system according to one embodiment comprises: an online video game or application execution engine to execute an online video game or application in response to input from one or more users of the video game or application and to responsively generate audio and video of the video game or application; and a chat subsystem to establish audio chat sessions with the one or more users and one or more spectators to the video game or application, the chat subsystem establishing a plurality of audio chat channels including a spectator channel over which the spectators participate in audio chat and a user channel over which the users participate in audio chat. 1. A system for managing video chat sessions for online video games comprising: execute an online video game, in response to selection of the online video game for game play received from one or more players over a network;', 'responsively generate audio and video data of the online video game, the audio and video data being generated based on input received from the one or more players interacting with the online video game, wherein the input for the online video game is received from remote client devices associated with the one or more players;', 'transmit the generated audio and video data of the online video game to the remote client devices of the one or more players and to remote client devices of one or more spectators to the online video game; and, 'an online video game execution engine on a hosting service configured to,'} establish a plurality of video chat channels including a spectator video channel over which the spectators participate in video chat and a player video channel over which the players participate in video chat,', 'manage the video chat sessions by conducting the spectator video channel and the player video channel concurrently, the chat subsystem configured ...

METHOD FOR EXTERNAL EAR CANAL PRESSURE REGULATION TO ALLEVIATE DISORDER SYMPTOMS

A method for external ear canal pressure regulation to alleviate one or more symptoms associated with a disorder or treat one or more disorders, the method including providing a fluid transfer device which generates a fluid flow of a fluid through an earplug, the earplug having an earplug external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal wall as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure; sealably engaging the earplug of the fluid transfer device with the external ear canal wall as the barrier between the external ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure; and operating the fluid transfer device to generate the fluid flow of the fluid through the earplug to achieve an external ear canal pressure differential between the external ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure effective to alleviate a disorder symptom or treat a disorder. 120.-. (canceled)21. A method for alleviating at least one symptom associated with a headache being experienced by a patient having first and second ears on respective first and second sides of the patient's head , the method comprising:engaging the first ear on the first side of the patient's head with an earpiece sufficiently to allow a first pressure in a first external ear canal of the first ear to be adjusted;controlling a flow of fluid through the earpiece to make at least one pressure adjustment to the first pressure to create at least one respective pressure differential between the first pressure in the first external ear canal of the first ear and an ambient pressure outside the first external ear canal of the first ear; and ["(a) choosing the first ear on the first side for the at least one pressure adjustment based upon a relative distribution of headache pain between the first and second sides of the patient's head,", '(b) making at least one other pressure adjustment to a second pressure in a second external ear canal of the second ear to create at least one respective ...

RECONFIGURABLE APPAREL MANUFACTURE AND BUSINESS PROCESS

Provided herein are methods for the modulation of appearance or material properties within items of apparel or equipment. Also provided herein are design articles having alterable designs. 1. A process for preparing a design element or design article , the process comprising:providing a first material that is configured in a channel network; andlaminating a second material onto the first material.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein a first thermoplastic material is of a harder or softer durometer than a second thermoplastic material.3. The process of claim 1 , wherein a second thermoplastic material is laminated onto the first metal foil material using heat and/or pressure.4. The process of claim 1 , wherein a connector is overmolded to the channel network. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/442,142, filed 11 Feb. 2011, and 61/443,667, 16 Feb. 2011, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.Provided herein are methods of manufacturing and marketing items that contain embedded microfluidic channel networks in order to modulate the appearance or material properties within said items of apparel or equipment. In particular, the present invention relates to manufacturing and marketing methods thereof, including (1) methods of construction and use of the microfluidic channel network (e.g., specialized methods suitable for the apparel and design articles described herein), (2) methods of construction and use of a manually actuated docking station, (3) the distribution of content codes (e.g., through downloadable configuration files, podcasts, celebrity podcasts, social crowdsourcing, propagation through social networks or the like).There has always been the desire to express oneself through color. The ability to modulate the appearance or material properties of apparel, equipment or other items had previously required discrete components, for instance distinct pairs of shoes to coordinate with different ...

REMOVAL DEVICE

A tool for removing a component from a turbomachine is provided. The tool includes a body having an alignment portion and a connection portion. The alignment portion defines a longitudinal axis and a cross sectional shape complementary to a slot defined in a rotor wheel of the turbomachine. When the tool is positioned in the slot, the connection portion is configured to contact the component. The tool additionally includes a force section connected to the body and configured to transfer a force to the connection portion in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the alignment portion. 1. A tool for removing a component of a turbomachine , comprising: a connection portion configured to contact the component; and', 'an alignment portion defining a longitudinal axis and a cross-sectional shape, the cross-sectional shape being complementary to a slot defined in a rotor wheel of the turbomachine; and, 'a body, the body comprising'}a force section connected to the body and configured to transfer a force to the connection portion of the body in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the alignment portion.2. The tool as in claim 1 , wherein the alignment portion of the body is configured to slidably couple the body of the tool to the slot defined in the rotor wheel.3. The tool as in claim 1 , wherein the component is a near flow path seal and the slot defined in the rotor wheel is a dovetail slot configured to receive a rotor blade.4. The tool as in claim 1 , wherein the connection portion comprises a clamp removably attached to the component of the turbomachine.5. The tool as in claim 4 , wherein the clamp defines an upper clamping surface and a lower clamping surface claim 4 , each defined at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the alignment portion claim 4 , and wherein when the clamp is in a closed position claim 4 , the upper clamping surface is substantially flush with an outer surface of the component and the ...

Low pressure gas release hydrothermal and peroxide treatment of odh catalyst

The preparation of an oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst comprising Mo, V, Nb and Te using a hydrothermal step. In some embodiments, the activity and reproducibility of the catalyst is improved by conducting the hydrothermal step while permitting gaseous products to leave the reactor. In some instances a condenser may be upstream of the outlet of the reactor.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVED MANAGEMENT OF VIRTUAL MACHINE CLUSTERS

In one embodiment, a method for improved management of virtual machine clusters may include: determining a current utilization value for each of a plurality of virtual machines (VMs) in a cluster, the VMs associated with a plurality of applications; storing the current utilization values for each of the plurality of VMs in a utilization table; determining that a capacity threshold for the cluster has not been reached based on an aggregation of the current utilization values for the plurality of VMs; provisioning a new VM into the cluster; storing a default utilization value for the new VM in the utilization table; and re-determining the capacity threshold based on the aggregated stored current utilization values for the plurality of VMs and the stored default utilization value for the new VM until a maturity threshold for the new VM is reached. 1. A method for improved management of virtual machine (VM) clusters , comprising: determining a current utilization value for each of a plurality of virtual machines (VMs) in a cluster, the VMs associated with a plurality of applications;', 'storing the current utilization values for each of the plurality of VMs in a utilization table;', 'determining that a capacity threshold for the cluster has not been reached based on an aggregation of the current utilization values for the plurality of VMs;', 'provisioning a new VM into the cluster;', 'storing a default utilization value for the new VM in the utilization table, wherein the default utilization value is based on a utilization metric for an application that is to be associated with the new VM or a pre-set utilization value; and', 're-determining the capacity threshold based on the aggregated stored current utilization values for the plurality of VMs and the stored default utilization value for the new VM until a maturity threshold for the new VM is reached., 'in a cluster management device comprising at least one computer processor2. The method of claim 1 , further ...

TURBOMACHINE BUCKET DISPLACEMENT APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE

Various embodiments include methods adapted to displace turbomachine components from a location within a turbomachine. In some embodiments, a method of displacing a turbine bucket from a turbomachine wheel slot using a displacement apparatus, includes: detachably engaging an engagement arm of the displacement apparatus to the turbine bucket, the engagement arm attached to a linear actuator coupled to a body of the displacement apparatus, and the engagement arm adapted to be actuated in a first axial direction by the linear actuator; contacting the turbomachine wheel with at least two contacting portions of the body of the displacement apparatus; and displacing the turbine bucket from a position within a slot of the turbomachine wheel in the first axial direction by linearly actuating the engagement arm with the linear actuator. 1. A method of displacing a turbine bucket from a turbomachine wheel slot using a displacement apparatus , the method comprising:detachably engaging an engagement arm of the displacement apparatus to the turbine bucket, the engagement arm attached to a linear actuator coupled to a body of the displacement apparatus, and the engagement arm adapted to be actuated in a first axial direction by the linear actuator;contacting the turbomachine wheel with at least two contacting portions of the body of the displacement apparatus; anddisplacing the turbine bucket from a position within a slot of the turbomachine wheel in the first axial direction by linearly actuating the engagement arm with the linear actuator.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the linear actuator is a two-way hydraulic ram for actuating the engagement arm in the first axial direction and a second axial direction opposite the first axial direction and wherein the body includes at least two turbomachine wheel engagement portions for engaging the turbomachine wheel claim 1 , the method further comprising:engaging the turbomachine wheel with the at least two turbomachine wheel ...

System and Method for Managing Audio and Video Channels for Video Game Players and Spectators

A computer-implemented system and method are described for managing audio chat for an online video game or application. For example, a system according to one embodiment comprises: an online video game or application execution engine to execute an online video game or application in response to input from one or more users of the video game or application and to responsively generate audio and video of the video game or application; and a chat subsystem to establish audio chat sessions with the one or more users and one or more spectators to the video game or application, the chat subsystem establishing a plurality of audio chat channels including a spectator channel over which the spectators participate in audio chat and a user channel over which the users participate in audio chat.

REMOVAL TOOL

A tool for removing a component from a turbomachine is provided. The tool includes a body having a connection portion for engaging the component. The tool additionally includes a force section connected to the body and configured to transfer a force to the connection portion in a direction at an acute angle relative to longitudinal axis of a dovetail slot of a rotor wheel adjacent to the component. 1. A tool for removing a component of a turbomachine , comprising:a body including a connection portion configured to engage the component; anda force section connected to the body and configured to transfer a force to the connection portion of the body in a direction at an acute angle relative to a longitudinal axis of a dovetail slot of a rotor wheel of the turbomachine.2. The tool as in claim 1 , wherein the component is a near flow path seal.3. The tool as in claim 1 , wherein the connection portion comprises a clamp removably attached to the component of the turbomachine.4. The tool as in claim 3 , wherein the clamp defines an upper clamping surface and a lower clamping surface claim 3 , and wherein in response to the clamp being in a closed position claim 3 , the upper clamping surface is substantially flush with an outer surface of the component and the lower clamping surface is substantially flush with an inner surface of the component.5. The tool as in claim 3 , wherein the clamp includes a set of clamps claim 3 , each clamp selectively coupled to the body and having a different sized clamping area between the upper clamping surface and the lower clamping surface than other clamps in the set of clamps.6. The tool as in claim 1 , wherein the force section is configured to transfer a pulling force to the body of the tool in a direction away from the component.7. The tool as in claim 1 , wherein the force section comprises a slide hammer attached to a rear end of the body.8. The tool as in claim 7 , wherein the slide hammer comprises:a rod attached to the body and ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATING MEIBOMIAN GLAND DYSFUNCTION

Systems and methods of treating meibomian and sebaceous gland dysfunction. The methods include reducing oxygen concentration in the environment of one or more dysfunctional meibomian and sebaceous glands, thereby restoring a hypoxic status of one or more dysfunctional meibomian and sebaceous glands. The reducing of the oxygen concentration is accomplished by restricting blood flow to the one or more dysfunctional meibomian and sebaceous glands and the environment of one or more dysfunctional meibomian sebaceous glands. The restricting of the blood flow is accomplished by contracting or closing one or more blood vessels around the one or more dysfunctional meibomian or sebaceous glands. The methods also include giving local or systemic drugs that lead to the generation of hypoxia-inducible factors in one or more dysfunctional meibomian and sebaceous glands. 1. A method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction , the method comprising:reducing oxygen concentration or inducing hypoxia-inducible factors in an eyelid environment of one or more dysfunctional meibomian glands, thereby restoring a hypoxic status of the eyelid environment or stimulating hypoxia-related pathways in one or more dysfunctional meibomian glands.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reducing of the oxygen concentration is accomplished by restricting blood flow to the one or more dysfunctional meibomian glands and the eyelid environment of one or more dysfunctional meibomian glands.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the restricting of the blood flow is accomplished by contracting or closing one or more blood vessels around the one or more dysfunctional meibomian glands.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein restricting the blood flow is achieved claim 2 , among other approaches claim 2 , using one or more of a 532-nm potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser claim 2 , a 532-nm neodymium yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser claim 2 , a 578-nm copper vapor laser claim 2 , 585-600-nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) ...

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalyst

Oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts comprising MoVNbTeO having improved consistency of composition and a 25% conversion of ethylene at less than 420° C. and a selectivity to ethylene above 95% are prepared by treating the catalyst precursor with H 2 O 2 in an amount equivalent to 0.30-2.8 mL H 2 O 2 of a 30% solution per gram of catalyst precursor prior to calcining.

Reconfigurable Shoes and Apparel and Docking Assembly Therefor

Provided herein are methods for the modulation of appearance or material properties within items of apparel or equipment. Also provided herein are design articles having alterable designs. Generally, such design articles comprise (1) a microfluidic circuit, and (2) an inlet and an outlet, the alterable design capable of being modulated through use of a docking system to deliver fluid to the microfluidic circuit. 1. An article of apparel or equipment comprising a micro fluidic circuit integrated into or onto a surface of the article, the microfluidic circuit comprising a microfluidic channel with at least one segment exposed to an external surface of the article, an inlet, and an outlet, wherein the microfluidic channel connects the inlet to the outlet. This is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/275,445, filed Sep. 25, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/389,578, which is a national stage entry of PCT/US10/45380, filed Aug. 12, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/233,776, filed 13 Aug. 2009. These applications are incorporated by reference in their entireties.The present invention relates to the modulation of appearance or material properties within items of apparel or equipment. In particular, the present invention relates to fluidic manipulation of appearance or material properties and modulation thereof, including (1) a microfluidic circuit within an item, (2) an inlet and an outlet, and (3) a docking system to deliver fluid to the microfluidic circuit.There has always been the desire to express oneself through color. The ability to modulate the appearance or material properties of apparel, equipment or other items had previously required discrete components, for instance distinct pairs of shoes to coordinate with different outfits, different belts, or different color vehicles. Further, apparel, sporting equipment and other items are often provided for consumption in a manner illustrating one ...

STIMULATION OF HUMAN MEIBOMIAN GLAND FUNCTION

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for stimulating meibomian gland epithelial cell function by administering to the ocular surface or immediate vicinity of an eye of a subject an effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition containing a PLD-inducing compound, such as the cationic amphiphilic drugs (e.g. azithromycin), androgen or an androgen analogue with androgen effectiveness, corticosteroid, progesterone, IGF-1 or an IGF-1 analogue (e.g. insulin), GH, and mixtures thereof. The pharmaceutical compositions are effective to treat a variety of aliments to the eye including meibomian gland dysfunction, evaporative dry eye disease, lipid abnormalities in meibum or the tear film, and autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome. 116.-. (canceled)17. A method for stimulating of human meibomian gland epithelial cell function , the method comprising: preparing a topical formulation of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutic agent of between and including 0.1% and 2% , by mass/volume , of a PLD-inducing compound , wherein the PLD-inducing compound comprises a cationic amphiphilic drug; and administering the topical formulation to an ocular surface of a subject or to an area immediately adjacent thereto.18. The method of claim 17 , wherein the topical formulation is applied to the ocular surface of a subject.19. The method of claim 17 , wherein the topical formulation is applied to a region of an eye immediately adjacent to the ocular surface.20. The method of claim 17 , wherein the pharmaceutical composition further comprises hyaluronate.21. The method of claim 17 , wherein the pharmaceutical composition further comprises at least one electrolyte selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride claim 17 , potassium chloride claim 17 , sodium bicarbonate claim 17 , potassium bicarbonate claim 17 , calcium chloride claim 17 , magnesium chloride claim 17 , trisodium citrate claim 17 , hydrochloric acid claim 17 , sodium hydroxide claim 17 , and ...

TURBOMACHINE BUCKET DISPLACEMENT APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE

Various embodiments include apparatuses adapted to displace turbomachine components from a location within a turbomachine. In some embodiments apparatuses for displacing a turbine bucket from a turbomachine wheel slot include a body having at least two contacting portions for contacting the turbomachine wheel, a linear actuator coupled to the body, and an engagement arm for engaging the turbine bucket, the engagement arm coupled to the linear actuator and adapted to be actuated in a first axial direction by the linear actuator.

TURBOMACHINE COMPONENT DISPLACEMENT APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE

Various embodiments include apparatuses adapted to displace components from a location within a turbomachine. In some embodiments an apparatus for displacing a component of a gas turbine from a first slot in a spacer disk includes a body including a mounting member configured to affixedly attach to a second slot of the spacer disk, a linear actuator coupled to the body and a displacement arm coupled to the linear actuator, the displacement arm actuatable in a first axial direction by the linear actuator to contact the component and displace the component relative to the first slot.

Turbomachine component displacement apparatus and method of use

Various embodiments include a method of displacing a turbomachine component from position in a first slot of a turbomachine spacer disk. The method can include detachably affixing a mounting member of a displacement apparatus to a second slot in the gas turbomachine spacer disk using an attachment device, rotating a displacement arm of the displacement apparatus until the displacement arm contacts the turbomachine component, and displacing the turbomachine component from the position within the first slot by linearly actuating the displacement arm with a linear actuator.

System and Method for Managing Audio and Video Channels for Video Game Players and Spectators

A computer-implemented system and method are described for managing audio chat for an online video game or application. For example, a system according to one embodiment comprises: an online video game or application execution engine to execute an online video game or application in response to input from one or more users of the video game or application and to responsively generate audio and video of the video game or application; and a chat subsystem to establish audio chat sessions with the one or more users and one or more spectators to the video game or application, the chat subsystem establishing a plurality of audio chat channels including a spectator channel over which the spectators participate in audio chat and a user channel over which the users participate in audio chat.

CATALYST FOR ETHANE ODH

A catalyst for oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of ethane with an empirical formula Mo—V—Te—Nb—Pd—O produced using a process comprising impregnation of the Pd component on the surface of the catalyst following a calcination step using a Pd compound free of halogens. The resulting catalyst can be used in both diluted and undiluted ODH processes and shows higher than expected activity without any loss of selectivity. 2. The process of wherein the step ii) heating of said first mixture in said first pressurized vessel is done at a temperature of from 160° C. to 185° C.3. The process of wherein the step vi) drying temperature is from 120° C. to 130° C.4. The process of wherein b equals from 0.1 to 0.5.5. The process of wherein b equals from 0.2 to 0.4.6. The process of wherein c equals from 0.05 to 0.4.7. The process of wherein c equals from 0.08 to 0.3.8. The process of wherein d equals from 0.05 to 0.4.9. The process of wherein d equals from 0.08 to 0.3.10. The process of wherein d equals from 0.10 to 0.25.11. The process of wherein e equals from 0.005 to 0.10.12. The process of wherein e equals from 0.01 to 0.05.13. The process of wherein e equals from 0.015 to 0.03.14. The process of wherein the inert atmosphere comprises gaseous nitrogen.15. The process of wherein the said first recovered insoluble material is calcined at a temperature of from 500° C. to 700° C. claim 1 , (preferably from 550° C. to 650° C. claim 1 , most preferably from 580° C. to 620° C.) claim 1 , for from 1 hours to 8 hours.16. The process of wherein the said first recovered insoluble material is calcined by ramping temperature from at or about room temperature to at or about 600° C. over a period of 4 to 7 hours claim 1 , followed by holding at or about 600° C. for from 1 hour to 4 hours.17. The process of wherein the Pd compound free of halogens is selected from [Pd(NH)](NO) claim 1 , Pd(HCO) claim 1 , Pd(CHCOO)and an analogous Pd containing salt.18. The process of wherein impregnation of said ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LATERAL STATISTICAL ESTIMATION OF ROCK AND FLUID PROPERTIES IN A SUBSURFACE FORMATION

A method is described for estimating hydrocarbon reservoir attributes including obtaining a geophysical dataset and a geological dataset; obtaining a parameter model, the parameter model having been conditioned by training an initial parameter model using training data, wherein the geological data includes well data and the training data includes the well data; picking a surface in the geophysical dataset; assigning stratigraphic meaning to the at least one surface based on the geological dataset; identifying at least one region of interest on the at least one surface; generating statistical seismic attributes for the at least one region; identifying critical attributes among the statistical seismic attributes by applying the parameter model to generate response variable maps for the at least one region; and generating uncertainty maps for each of the critical attributes and for the response variables. The method may be executed by a computer system. 1. A computer-implemented method of estimating reservoir attributes as a function of position in a subsurface volume of interest , the method being implemented in a computer system that includes one or more physical computer processors , non-transient electronic storage , and a graphical user interface , comprising:a. obtaining, from the non-transient electronic storage, a geophysical dataset and a geological dataset representative of a subsurface volume of interest;b. obtaining, from the non-transient electronic storage, a parameter model, the parameter model having been conditioned by training an initial parameter model using training data, wherein the geological dataset includes well data of one or more wells in the subsurface volume of interest and the training data includes the well data;c. picking, with the one or more physical computer processors, at least one surface in the geophysical dataset;d. assigning stratigraphic meaning to the at least one surface based on the geological dataset;e. identifying at least ...

Compostions for Treating Dry Eye Disease

The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of use thereof, for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or an undesired condition that is associated with or causes ocular boundary deficiency at the ocular surface. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises a human PRG4 protein, a lubricant fragment, homolog, or isoform thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents selected from the group consisting of an ophthalmically acceptable demulcent, excipient, astringent, vasoconstrictor, emollient, sodium hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid, and surface active phospholipids, in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for topical administration. 1. A pharmaceutical composition suitable for topical application to an ocular surface comprising:PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof comprising glycosylated repeats of an amino acid sequence at least 60% identical to KEPAPTT (SEQ ID NO:4) at a concentration effective to relieve eye discomfort, dry eye disease, or symptoms associated therewith, andan ophthalmically balanced salt solution.2. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof at a concentration of 10-10 claim 1 ,000 μg/mL.3. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , comprising PRG4 or a lubricating fragment thereof at a concentration of 50-500 μg/mL.4. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , further comprising sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid.5. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , further comprising a surface active phospholipid.6. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 , wherein the salt solution comprises at least three different electrolytes selected from the group consisting of sodium phosphate claim 1 , sodium chloride claim 1 , potassium chloride claim 1 , sodium bicarbonate claim 1 ...