The present invention is directed to variant squalene synthase enzymes, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae squalene synthase enzymes, and to nucleic acid molecules encoding these variant enzymes. These variant enzymes produce squalene at a lower rate than the wild-type enzyme, allowing more farnesyl pyrophosphate to be utilized for production of isoprenoid compounds, while still producing sufficient squalene to allow the S. cerevisiae cells to grow without the requirement for supplementation by sterols such as ergosterol. These variant enzymes, therefore, are highly suitable for the efficient production of isoprenoids.

With over 50,000 identified members, terpenoids comprise the largest known class of natural products. These compounds are structurally diverse, although based on related carbon skeletons. The structural diversity found among these compounds allows them to perform a variety of essential biochemical functions. These compounds serve as attractants for pollinators, antimicrobial and antiherbivorial defense compounds, and may react with reactive oxygen species to protect against oxidative damage (Dudereva et al., Plant Physiol. 135: 1893-1902 (2004)). As components of the essential oils of aromatic plants, they are largely responsible for the distinct flavors and fragrances associated with their host plants. Moreover, the value of these small molecules extends beyond their biological utility. Many terpenoids have commercial value as antibiotics, pest control agents, fragrances, flavors, and anti-cancer agents, among other important uses.
A specific class of these natural products, sesquiterpenoids, is derived from a common 15-carbon building block. This common 15-carbon building block is farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP). Many important products, such as the flavoring nootkatone, the cosmetic additive bisabolol, and amorpha-4,11-diene, a precursor to the antimalarial compound artemisinin, are sesquiterpenoids and thus are based on the 15-carbon skeleton of FPP. Therefore, methods that can increase the yield of FPP that can be utilized in sesquiterpenoid synthesis are of extreme importance.
To maximize production of terpenes, mutations in squalene synthase have been used to prevent or minimize conversion of farnesyl pyrophosphate to squalene. In practice, this has been done by either eliminating the corresponding gene, reducing its expression using weak promoters, or controlling its expression with a regulated promoter. Squalene is a precursor to sterols, which are essential to viability of yeast and other organisms. Accordingly, complete elimination of the gene requires feeding of sterols. The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is not normally capable of taking up sterols under aerobic conditions, so in order to feed sterols to mutants, secondary mutations enabling sterol uptake are required.
Various solutions have been proposed in order to obtain high yields of farnesyl pyrophosphate for maximum production of terpenes. In one approach, the ERG9 gene of the yeast is completely eliminated. The gene ERG9 encodes the enzyme squalene synthase. However, because these mutants in which ERG9 is eliminated cannot synthesize squalene, which is a precursor to sterols, they must be fed sterols (Takahashi, et al. Biotech. Bioengineer. 97:170-181 (2007)). In another approach, PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO 06/102342 by Bailey et al. describes production of high yields of farnesyl pyrophosphate by modifying the expression or activity of one or more polypeptides involved in generating cytosolic acetyl-CoA and/or NADPH. In another approach, a promoter, the MET3 promoter, is used in place of the native ERG9 promoter to downregulate the expression of squalene synthase by repressing its synthesis by adding methionine, which acts as a repressor with respect to the MET3 promoter (Asadollahi et al., Biotech. Bioengineer. 99: 666-677 (2007)). In a similar approach, in addition to repression of ERG9 production, overproduction of a soluble, truncated form of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, and enhancement of the activity of the transcription factor UPC2 was employed (Paradise et al., Cell. Metabol. Engineer. Bioengineer. 100: 371-378 (2008); Ro et al., Nature 440: 940-943 (2006)).
However, there is a need for improved strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae that can overproduce FPP without the need for sterol supplementation and without regulating expression. Preferably, these improved strains would grow efficiently and produce high levels of farnesyl pyrophosphate for subsequent terpenoid synthesis.


A system for reducing discharges from an oven prior to opening an oven door. In particular, the system includes a housing forming a cooking compartment arranged within the oven. The system also includes a purge passage extending through the housing into the cooking compartment and a cover arranged over a portion of the purge passage to removeably block the purge passage. An expelling port is included that extends from the cooking compartment through the housing. A controller is configured to remove the cover from blocking the purge passage to inject air into the cooking compartment through the purge passage and displace substances within the cooking compartment through the expelling port.

The present invention relates generally to a system and method for reducing discharges from an oven and, more particularly, to a system and method for venting combination convection and steam ovens prior to the expiration of a cooking time.
Combination ovens provide the ability to cook foods using steam, hot-air convection, or both steam and convection. A motor driven fan is used to circulate air within a cooking chamber past electrical heating elements or gas heat exchange tubes to perform the convection functionality. To produce steam within the cooking chamber, a water line feeds water into the cooking chamber near the heating elements to vaporize the water.
This combination of convection heating with steam provides a system where food can be properly cooked significantly faster than with traditional ovens or even convection ovens alone. As a result, combination ovens have become a vital asset in commercial cooking environments that need to cook food quickly and, often, in large quantities.
Within any kitchen employing even traditional ovens, the heat produced by the oven can significantly affect the temperature of the kitchen, especially when the oven door is opened. In the case of combination ovens, the steam released upon opening the oven door may further raise the temperature in the kitchen. Furthermore, even if the kitchen is of sufficient size to allow the heat and steam to dissipate, the individual operating the combination oven is subjected to a concentrated release of heat and steam upon each opening of the oven door. In either case, this can present a less than desirable working condition, especially in commercial kitchens where one or more combination ovens are routinely used over long durations requiring repetitive openings and closings of the oven door.
Accordingly, it would be desirable to have a system and method to manage the discharge of steam and/or other substances from an oven upon opening of the oven door.

System and method for limiting the escape of heat and steam from an open oven door


The invention relates to a connector (10) for a fluid conduction system comprising: —a female coupling part (12); —a male coupling part (14) for inserting into the female coupling part (12) along a longitudinal axis (16) of the connector (10); and —controlling means for locking/unlocking the inserted male coupling part (12) within the female coupling part (14) and for controlling the fluidic coupling of the two coupling parts (12, 14) by rotating said two coupling parts (12, 14) against one another about the longitudinal axis (16); wherein a portion of each of the coupling parts (12, 14) is realized as a shut-off valve (18, 24) with a valve body (20, 26) and a rotatable slider element (22, 28), wherein the rotatable slider element (22, 28) of each shut-off valve (18, 24) is in a compulsory closed position when the two coupling parts (12, 14) are unlocked; and wherein the rotatable slider element (22, 28) of each shut-off valve (18, 24) is transferable between the closed position and an open position only if the two coupling parts (12, 14) are locked by use of the controlling means. The invention further relates to a corresponding fluid conduction system.

The above mentioned connector is known as a connector for joining two conduits in a fluid conduction system from document EP 0 633 039 A1. Said document shows a hose connector for joining two hoses of a system for medical purposes. The connector comprises a female coupling part; a male coupling part for inserting into the female coupling part along a longitudinal axis of the connector; and a bayonet lock for locking/unlocking the two coupling parts by rotating them against one another about the longitudinal axis after the insertion of the male coupling part into the female coupling part, wherein a fluid-tight connection of the coupling parts is improved by the rotating motion and a corresponding sealing.
These connectors are arranged for non-dangerous liquids or other fluids like gases or aerosols but not suitable for hazardous fluids like toxic fluids, caustic fluids or other harmful liquid chemicals.
Therefore, the one object underlying the present invention is to provide a save, cost-effective and easy to use connector.

Connector for a fluid conduction system and a fluid conduction system with a corresponding connector


A method for providing a first dashboard that includes a first several window panes for providing information about a first set of aspects of a patient's condition. The method also provides a second dashboard that includes a second several window panes for providing information about a second set of aspects of a patient's condition. The method further defines a link that causes the second dashboard to be opened when an item is selected in at least one of the first several window panes.

In recent years, hospitals have increased the amount of information they produce about each patient in digital form to an extent that would be overwhelming to a human being trying to cope with every bit of that information. For example, a patient's heart rate or blood pressure might be continuously monitored with a new value generated several times a minute.
Accordingly, systems for displaying such data have been developed. Some of these systems take the form of dashboards for computer or other electronic displays for displaying specific information about a patient. Prior dashboards provide a menu of options for pulling data out of one or more data repositories. Unfortunately, in many cases, sorting through the overwhelming amount of raw data to locate the relevant data is a time consuming endeavor in a time sensitive environment such as a hospital. Therefore, a need has arisen for a system that helps a user select an appropriate dashboard to use to easily display relevant information about a selected patient.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Drill down clinical information dashboard

The Regents of the University of California


A document editing system using a third party application having an embedded document editing module is disclosed. The system include a client-side document editing engine that accepts requests to edit a document from and displays at least a portion of the document to a user of the client-side system. The system includes a first server-side application engine that processes the requests to edit the document. The system can include a second server-side data storage engine that stores the document in a remote storage location.

Applications that edit user generated (or automatically generated) data normally reside on a user's personal computer, or workstation. The application allows the computer user the flexibility to perform local changes and save the result in some format locally. The resulting saved file can be viewed in editable format, enabling one to use input devices such as a keyboard or mouse, to make changes, and save in a native format. The user can invoke the same application to view the file in the native format. Files saved in a native format can be shared between users who use the same application. An example of such a widely used system, is the Microsoft suite of applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.). One evolution of this application takes advantage of networked computers and allows the creator of a file to share the document with another user through a file transfer system such as via email attachment or file sharing on networked computers, enabling the other user to make further changes, thus allowing for collaboration on the same document. The document can be transferred between multiple users.
Another evolution of the document editing application takes advantage of the cloud computing paradigm that eliminates the need (for the user) to own and maintain application software. Instead, users can use an application hosted on a remote server, and host their data on a remote data storage system, managed by the hosting server based on input by the user. This system makes it possible for users to access remote applications using the Internet, and browsers, while the application logic itself, is maintained and upgraded by a central entity, the entity that hosts the application and is responsible for storage of user data and application logic source. One outcome of this is the ability to improve features involving collaboration.
The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations related therewith are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Other limitations of the related art will become apparent upon a reading of the specification and a study of the drawings.

Editing an unhosted third party application


A method and apparatus for transmitting an uplink control signal in a wireless communication system are provided. A user equipment spreads a third control signal by using either a reference signal sequence of a first control signal or a reference signal sequence of a second control signal, thereby multiplexing the third control signal to the first and second control signals. Thus, a payload of a control channel can be increased.

Long term evolution (LTE) based on 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) technical specification (TS) release 8 is a promising next-generation mobile communication standard.
As disclosed in 3GPP TS 36.211 V8.7.0 (2009-05) "Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA); Physical Channels and Modulation (Release 8)", a physical channel of the LTE can be classified into a downlink channel, i.e., a physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) and a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), and an uplink channel, i.e., a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) and a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH).
The PUCCH is distinguished by using different codes, frequencies, times, or combinations thereof while using the same time-frequency resources. Code division multiplexing (CDM) uses different codes. Frequency division multiplexing (FDM) uses different frequencies. That is, each of user equipments transmits its PUCCH by using different codes and/or frequencies in the same time resource.
It can be said that transmission reliability is more important than transmission capacity in a control channel. This is because when an error occurs in transmission of the control channel, a data channel may be never received or it may have a significant effect on scheduling or HARQ operations. Therefore, a payload of the control channel is generally limited to be less than several bits to tens of bits.
In addition, in the uplink control channel, a peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR)/cubic metric (CM) property is important for power management of a user equipment. The uplink control channel needs to maintain a low PAPR/CM property to ensure long battery standby-time and low battery consumption. For this, LTE uses a sequence having a low PAPR/CM property such as a Zadoff-Chu (ZC) sequence in the control channel.
However, the increase in transmission capacity of the control channel is essential due to the introduction of a new technique such as a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) technique, a multi-carrier technique, or the like.
Accordingly, there is a need for a method capable of increasing transmission capacity of a control channel while maintaining a low PAPR/CM property.

Method and apparatus for transmitting an uplink control signal in a wireless communication system


A method and an X-ray system are disclosed for reduction of the radiation dose used within the framework of an imaging X-ray examination. In at least one embodiment, for each pixel of a recorded image, structure information of a structure which may be present at a distance around the examined pixel is determined and a direction-dependent lowpass filter is applied to the pixel examined in each case, which filter's spatial coverage is less than the distance and which takes into account the morphological information of a structure which may be present with a direction-dependent weighting of the lowpass filter.

Essentially, known noise reduction algorithms can be traced back to two different and in each case separately used principles, namely diffusion filters on one hand and morphological or edge-preserving filters on the other hand.
Diffusion filters look at the difference between pixel values in relation to statistical uncertainty. As well as the simple diffusion filters, bilateral filters or regularizers used for iterative reconstructions in accordance with patent application DE 10 2009 039 987.9-35 also belong to this class.

Method for reduction of the radiation dose used within the framework of an X-ray imaging examination and CT system


A transfer apparatus includes a supporting member, a free electron excitation device and a detection device; the free electrons excitation device is configured to excite semiconductor material of an object to be transferred to generate free electrons, and the detection device is configured to detect whether material of a surface of the transferred object in contact with the support surface of the supporting member is conductive under excitation by the free electron excitation device. A laser annealing apparatus comprising the transfer apparatus is further provided.

With rising and development of flat display devices, low temperature polysilicon technique has become a synonym for high quality display devices. In recent years, major manufacturers of display panel begin to invest and build low-temperature polysilicon (LTPS) production lines in sequence due to its rapid development and promising future.
Excimer laser annealing process is an important step for forming polysilicon. In a conventional excimer laser annealing (ELA) apparatus, it is required to place a substrate onto a substrate stage manually. However, it is difficult to distinguish between the glass side of the substrate and a silicon side of the substrate on which an a-silicon film is formed because the two sides are similar in color. Mistakes are prone to occur in visually discriminating the two sides from each other. If a mistake occurs, serious consequences will be caused. For example, if the glass side of the substrate is placed upward by mistake and is irradiated by a laser beam, the laser beam will pass through the substrate and is irradiated on an alignment film (e.g., PI film), and this irradiation may cause the alignment film to be ashed and the ash thus produced is diffused around the process chamber of an LEA apparatus, which causes the apparatus contaminated and unnecessary cost to clean the process chamber.

Transfer apparatus and laser annealing apparatus


A method for selecting a communication option for communications from a mobile device which operates in a wireless communication network, the mobile device having access to stored address book information that includes contact names, the method including: storing for at least some of the contact names an indication of a last communication option used for communicating therewith; displaying a list of user selectable contact names on a display of the mobile device; after receiving user input selecting of one of the contact names from the list, causing a list of user selectable communication options for communicating with the selected contact name to be generated on the display; and automatically positioning a selection symbol on the display to highlight the selectable communication option that corresponds to a last communication option that was used for communicating with the selected contact name.

Communications devices, in particular handheld mobile communications devices, are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Such a device allows a user to contact a second user or device through a communication network through various contact methods.
Accordingly, there are numerous contact methods for the user to contact the second user or device. For instance, the user may choose to email, phone, Short Message Service (SMS), or fax the second user or device. Another contact method is known as Personal Identification Number (PIN) communication. PIN communication is different from and often considered to be more private than sending messages between email accounts. PIN messages are sent directly from one device to another without going through a central corporate server. Instead, the messages are sent through a non-corporate server such as a telecommunications provider and directly to the other device. In order for a user to choose the contact method, the user may be required to scroll through a menu using a scrollwheel or keyboard to select the appropriate contact method.
Once a user has finished contacting the second user or device using a contact method, the user may wish to contact the second user or device again using the same contact method. For example, a user may email a second user by scrolling through a menu to choose the appropriate contact method, in this case the "email" field is chosen. If the user wishes to contact the second user again through a new email, the user would have to once again scroll through a menu to select the email as the appropriate contact method. The scrolling may waste valuable time, as is the case when the user continually contacts the second user using the same contact method.

Communications device and method for associating contact names with contact methods


A stretcher which comprises a bed, and a frame having first and second parallel frame members coupled to first and second lateral frame members is disclosed. A securement track is define by an upper surface of at least one of the first parallel frame member, the second parallel frame member, the first lateral frame member, and the second lateral frame member, the securement track having a plurality of alternating open regions and necked down regions along a length. A bed mount configured to both support the bed and be releasably secured in the securement track in a secure condition, and configured to be repositionable along the length of the securement track in an unsecured condition.

Equipment and device manufactures do not have a standard for mounting their hardware to surfaces or other equipment or devices. This can inhibit quick configuration of the stretcher or litter for different situations encountered by a user and in some cases require the use of specialized tools. Mounting equipment and devices on a stretcher or litter are also dependent on the manufacturer's chosen mounting locations. This may require individual adaptation for each piece of equipment or device to mount to specific locations on a stretcher or litter which may be time consuming and labor intensive. Furthermore, if the piece of equipment or device is desired to be moved, the amount of time and effort is increased to re-mount the piece of equipment or device in a new location. A manufacturer may entertain adding quick mounting hardware to their equipment or devices for addition money paid for by the customer but the new hardware may not be compatible with other manufacturer's hardware.
The problem is compounded if the piece of equipment or device is desired to be mounted to a mobile structure. The rigors that the securing fasteners must endure are increased over static applications. Furthermore, the users may be away from a service area and may require relocation of the equipment or devices or a different configuration of equipment or devices without the need for tools.
Accordingly, a need exists for alternative approaches to secure and easily relocate equipment or devices on a stretcher or litter.


The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition or a health functional food composition for improving sleep or preventing or treating sleep disorders comprising beta-lapachone as an active ingredient. Beta-lapachone decreases the sleep latency and increases the total sleeping time, and thus the composition comprising the beta-lapachone can effectively improve sleep and prevent and treat sleep disorders.

Sleep refers to the state in which the conscious activity is relaxed with eyes closed and it is an important process to recover the fatigue accumulated by physical activity and to supplement the energy used by people during daytime activities. Sleep is not only the time to restore energy and fatigue but also the time when the growth hormone which is essential for human growth is most secreted. The brain in our body is responsible for all the physiological functions for maintaining life, and rest is necessary to maintain a balance of appropriate activities. Most of these rest is done during sleeping time.
However, the number of patients diagnosed and treated for sleep problems due to the exhausting and busy routine of modern life and the aging of the population have increased in recent years and are expected to increase steadily in the future. According to the National Sleep Foundation, a survey in 2005, ten of the active population is reported that they were absent or made mistakes in their work due to sleep-related problems.
Disorders associated with sleep are directly harmful to the health and recent studies have shown that lack of sleep increases the risk for diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. In the study of Journal 'Sleep' published in 2004, women who sleep less than five hours at night on average had significantly higher mortality rates than women who sleep for seven hours.
Currently, the administration of sleeping pills, tranquilizers, and stress relievers, to treat insomnia or sleep disorder has been used as a common treatment. However, a long-term dose of these drugs for at least 4 weeks occurs problems of dependency and drug side effects, and in the case of elderly or pregnant women the administration of such drugs may be limited. Accordingly, there is a need to develop a medicament made of a natural substance capable of effectively improving or treating sleep disorders with fewer side effects besides the above-mentioned drugs.
Meanwhile, beta-lapachone is a natural quinone substance obtained from lapacho tree (Tabebuia avellanedae), which can also be extracted from various plants. Studies to date have shown that beta-lapachone has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal effects, but there has been no report on the effects of treating or improving sleep or sleep disorders.

Composition for improvement of sleep or for prevention or treatment of sleep disorders, containing beta-lapachone

AJOU UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION

UNIVERSITY-INDUSTRY COOPERATION GROUP OF KYUNG HEE UNIVERSITY


A chair includes a base and a seat each having two side tracks and a front track. Three pairs of pivotal bars have upper ends coupled to the tracks of the seat and have lower ends coupled to the tracks of the base. The bars may expand and fold when the seat moves up and down relative to the base. A tube is extended in the base, the seat includes a downward extending rod slidably engaging in the tube and threaded with a bolt. A motor is coupled to the bolt for driving the bolt and for moving the seat up and down relative to the base to adjust the height of the seat relative to the base.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a chair, and more particularly to a chair having an elevating device for elevating the seat relative to a base.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Typical chairs, particularly sofas, comprise a seat or seat cushion solidly supported on a base. The seat may not be adjusted relative to the base such that the seat may not be adjusted according to the sizes of the users.
The present invention has arisen to mitigate and/or obviate the afore-described disadvantages of the conventional chairs.

No. 26-23, Tien Chong Yiang Road, Yuan Lin Town


A circuit selectively sets a left/right monaural playback channel in a digitally signal-processed stereo audio apparatus. The circuit includes a channel selecting signal generator for generating a channel selecting signal to select the channel corresponding to a signal desired to be reproduced among the audio signals of several channels, a storage circuit synchronous to a predetermined clock signal and temporarily storing the audio signals of several channels, a path controlling circuit for controlling the paths of an audio signal supplied after being processed into a digital signal and a signal output from the storage circuit to transmit to a D/A converter the signals corresponding to the channels selectively set by the channel selecting signal generator, and a control circuit for outputting to the channel selecting signal generator the control signal for selecting a desired channel to be reproduced in response to user commands, and controlling the generation of a channel selecting signal.

The present invention relates to a circuit for selectively setting a monaural playback channel in a stereo audio apparatus of a digital video/audio signal processing system, and more particularly to a circuit for selectively setting a monaural playback channel which selectively sets a single channel signal desired to be reproduced among left/right channel signals to a monaural playback channel after being digitally processed and before conversion into an analog signal.
The present disclosure is based on the disclosure in Korean Patent Application No. 92-3112 filed on Feb. 27, 1992, which disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.
Generally, an audio apparatus in a digital video/audio signal processing system carries out digital-signal processing and analog-signal processing to record/reproduce audio signals. Such an audio apparatus is classified into two types: monaural (generally referred to as "mono") which reproduces the sound utilizing only one channel, and stereophonic (generally referred to as "stereo") which reproduces the sound using a transmission line having at least two channels to achieve a more lifelike sound quality. Recently, the stereo type is generally used, but most systems have a means to select stereo or mono modes according to user preference.
A conventional digital audio apparatus comprises a switching unit constituted by analog elements and formed between a D/A converter and an output unit (including an output amplifier and a speaker), and controls the signal processing according to monaural or stereo type. That is, in the stereo mode, the apparatus controls the operation of an analog switching unit to separately output left/right channel signals via the output unit, which are output from the D/A signal converter. While, in the mono mode, the apparatus controls the operation of the analog switching unit to output the signal of one channel among left/right channel signals to the output unit, respectively. However, due to the structural characteristics of an analog switching unit, the signal of one channel is affected by that of the other channel, and vice versa, so that the quality of the reproduced sound is lowered, which is more severe in the mono mode. Also, since the output from the D/A converter is unamplified, the signal is more sensitive to noise.

Circuit for selectively setting a monaural playback channel in a stereo audio apparatus


A radiographic image capturing system includes a radiographic image capture device, a radiation irradiation device, and a control device. The radiographic image capture device is capable of wired and wireless communications, and is capable of fluoroscopic imaging in which radiographic images are successively captured at notified synchronization timings or at a predetermined frame rate. The radiation irradiation device irradiates radiation toward the radiographic image capture device during fluoroscopic imaging, with continuous irradiation or pulse irradiation. The control device includes a wireless communication unit, a wired communication unit, and a controller that, if communication with the radiographic image capture device is performed by the wireless communication unit, prohibits fluoroscopic imaging with pulse irradiation in which the synchronization timings are notified to the radiographic image capture device and radiation is irradiated from the radiation irradiation device in pulses matching the notified synchronization timings.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a radiographic image capturing system, and in particular, to a radiographic image capturing system that is capable of wired communication using a communication cable and wireless communication, and can carry out fluoroscopic imaging in which the capturing of radiographic images is carried out continuously at notified synchronization timings or at a predetermined frame rate.
2. Description of the Related Art
Radiation detectors such as flat panel detectors (FPDs), in which a radiation-sensitive layer is disposed on a thin film transistor (TFT) active matrix substrate and that can convert radiation directly into digital data have been put into practice in recent years. Portable radiographic image capturing devices (hereinafter also called "electronic cassettes"), that capture radiographic images expressed by irradiated radiation by using the radiation detector, are being put into practice. As compared with a radiographic image capturing device that uses a conventional X-ray film or imaging plate, a radiographic image capturing device that uses the radiation detector has the advantages that images can be confirmed immediately, and fluoroscopic imaging (video image capturing), in which the capturing of radiographic images is carried out continuously, also can be carried out. As methods of converting radiation at the radiation detector, there are an indirect conversion method that, after converting radiation into light at a scintillator, converts the light into charges at a semiconductor layer of photodiodes or the like, and a direct conversion method that converts radiation into charges at a semiconductor layer of amorphous selenium or the like, and the like. There exist various types of materials that can be used at the semiconductor layer in these respective methods.
As image capturing methods for fluoroscopic imaging, there are a method of capturing images at a predetermined frame rate while irradiating radiation continuously from a radiation source (continuous irradiation), and a method of, while irradiating radiation in the form of pulses synchronously with the frame rate (pulse irradiation), capturing images synchronously with the irradiation of the radiation. With pulse irradiation, the radiation can be irradiated for the time needed for imaging, and the amount of radiation that the patient is exposed to can be suppressed as compared with continuous irradiation, and there is therefore the advantage that the irradiated amount per unit time can be increased. However, with pulse irradiation, there is the need to synchronize the timing of irradiating the radiation from the radiation source and the timing of the image capturing at the radiation detector.
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open (JP-A) No. 2009-136481 discloses a technique in which a switch for switching between continuous irradiation and pulse irradiation is provided. In imaging using C arm, when the C arm is rotated and positioning of the imaged region is carried out, the form of irradiation is switched to pulse irradiation by the switch. When capturing diagnostic images, the form of irradiation is switched to continuous irradiation by the switch, and image capturing is carried out.
JP-A No. 2009-186439 discloses, in a wireless X-ray fluoroscopic system that is physically divided into an exposure unit and a sensor unit, a technique of generating beacon signals at a period that is associated with the frame rate of image capturing, and wirelessly synchronizing the irradiation timing and the image capturing timing.
Electronic cassettes generally have better usability if communication thereof with a control device (known as a console) is wireless communication than wired communication using a communication cable.
For such cases, using the technology recited in JP-A No. 2009-186439 and generating a beacon signal with a period corresponding to a frame rate of image capture to synchronize irradiation timings with image capture timings has been considered.
However, if transmitting and synchronizing beacon signals by radio communication to synchronize irradiation timings with image capture timings is attempted, the synchronization is difficult because of communication delays and the like, and fluoroscopic images may not be captured reliably.
Radio communication between an electronic cassette and a control device has been described here, but the same applies in a case in which communication between a control device and a radiation irradiation device or between an electronic cassette and a radiation irradiation device is performed by radio communication and synchronization of irradiation timings with capture timings is performed by radio communication.


Measurements of complex permittivity using transient techniques and Fourier transforms require computation which can be lengthy. In the invention, a synthesizer generates a succession of waveforms each containing a small number of harmonically related frequency components. These waveforms are applied to a capacitive potentiometer formed by a reference capacitor and a sample head. The voltages across the potentiometer and the sample head are passed by way of an analog-to-digital converter to a microprocessor which calculates Fourier transforms and indicates permittivity versus frequency. By limiting the frequency components, the computation time is reduced and a quick scan to find spectral regions of interest is possible. These regions can then be examined at higher resolution by changing a clock frequency which determines the generation of the frequency components.

The present invention relates to a spectrometer and spectral method for use with a test circuit containing a component or device whose properties are to be measured over a frequency range. The component may hold a sample of material whose electrical properties are to be determined over the frequency range.
The invention is particularly but not exclusively concerned with the measurement of complex permittivity. Known techniques of permittivity measurement divide into single-frequency (Q-meter, bridge, phase-sensitive-detector) and multi-frequency (transient-step response and pseudo-random-noise) techniques. Laboratory apparatus employed for the more exacting measurements appears to call for particular skills on the part of the user. Transient techniques have been of particular interest in recent years and heralded major advances in speed of measurements at low frequencies at an accuracy sufficient to satisfy many investigations.

Apparatus and methods for spectral analysis of electrical materials, components and devices

National Research Development Corporation


A bone plate for treating periprosthetic fractures includes a head portion sized and shaped so that, in an operative position, a proximal end thereof aligns with a vastus ridge of a greater trochanter of a femur. The plate also includes a shaft portion extending distally from the head portion. The shaft portion includes offset holes to receive bone fixation elements therethrough. Each of the offset holes includes a first hole positioned on a first side of a longitudinal axis of the plate and a second hole positioned on a second side of the longitudinal axis opposite the first side so that bone fixation elements inserted therethrough extend anterior and posterior of a prosthetic received within the femur. The first and second holes are staggered relative to one another along a length of the shaft portion and extending beyond longitudinal edges of the shaft portion.

Proximal femur fractures may be treated with bone plates positioned along the femur to extend across a fracture site. In some cases, however, particularly for periprosthetic fractures, fixation of the bone plate may be difficult as bone fixation elements must be inserted through the bone without interfering with a stem of a previously implanted THA (Total Hip Arthroplasty) system or other intramedullary device.


A spherical laser includes a transparent or semi-transparent outer spherical vessel having an internal cavity, an amplifying medium in the cavity, and means to excite the amplifying medium. The sphere is provided with a partially reflective coating to act as a spherical optical resonator. Excitation of the amplifying medium produces an optical gain. When the gain exceeds cavity losses and threshold conditions are met, lasing is supported. This creates a three-dimensional, spherically radiating emission, emulating a point source. The output is radially diverging, but is harnessed by enclosing the sphere within a mirrored ellipse to image the output to a point, or within a mirrored parabola to columinate the emission. A concentric, reflective inner sphere may be disposed in the cavity, with the amplifying medium lying between the two spheres. A voltage potential is applied between the spheres to excite the medium.

Modern lasers including semiconductor lasers, gas lasers, and solid state lasers utilize optical cavities consisting of two mirrors or prisms arranged to form closed optical paths of low loss, into which an amplifying medium is inserted. The amplifying medium enclosed within the optical cavity may be gaseous, liquid, crystalline, or a glassy solid. Laser oscillation will occur at specific frequencies if the gain of the medium exceeds cavity losses. Gain of the medium is dependent upon the stimulated emission rate, which is increased when population inversion is present (a necessary condition for lasing). The onset of laser oscillation is governed by threshold conditions and stabilizes at a level that depends on the saturation intensity of the amplifying medium and the reflectance of the mirrors. The beam exits the resonator via an output coupler ("OC"), e.g., a mirror with a reflectivity of less than 1 for the lasing wavelength, in a direction perpendicular to the OC mirror, thereby establishing a directed beam of light (coherent or incoherent, as the case may be). The exiting laser beam propagates in a single direction while supporting lateral and longitudinal modes indicative of the laser design and operation. Gain saturation and second order effects limit the maximum output power of conventional lasers, thereby limiting their scalability. Many applications utilize a focused laser beam, including microscopy, industrial applications (e.g., welding, cutting, and writing), and printing, among others. The minimum spot size achievable is limited by diffraction to approximately one half the wavelength of excitation.


A system and methods for time and/or location authentication are presented. A hash value is received from a client device and a hash value receiving time of the received hash value is stored. A data block is received after receiving the hash value is received, the received data block comprising alleged transmission signal data. A computed hash value of the received data block is computed, and an estimated transmission signal client receiving time by the client is calculated based on the alleged transmission signal data. A timely possession of the received data block by the client device is authenticated based on a comparison of the computed hash value to the received hash value and a comparison of the hash value receiving time to the estimated transmission signal client receiving time.

Cyber-security is becoming increasingly important as electronic systems become more engrained into everyday business and social tasks. Many previously managed business processes have expanded into electronic data processing online, which has made on-going information and computing security advancement techniques necessary in order to protect these everyday-used systems. Important documents and other data using information from social security numbers to national infrastructure related information are stored in networked systems that if accessed by an unauthorized party would have varying degrees of societal impact from nuisances to major societal infrastructure breakdown. In parallel with increased reliance on electronic systems, an increase in computer hacking motivates improving methods for protecting networked computer systems. Cyber-attacks and network penetrations are becoming more common. These frequent occurrences have brought potential dangers of network penetrations by external threats in both commercial and military environments to the forefront.
Current access control approaches are principally based on either static passwords, or are authentication based using passwords and smart badge credentials based on Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). As system attacks are often conducted by impersonating the end user (e.g., spoofing), there has been a tendency for organizations to focus on user authentication methods to curtail network data interception network vulnerabilities. These approaches continue to be vulnerable to sophisticated attacks.

System and method for improved geothentication based on a hash function


In one illustrative embodiment, the method comprises providing a plurality of wafer lots, each of the lots comprising a plurality of wafers, performing at least one process operation on at least some of the wafers in each of the plurality of lots, identifying processed wafers having similar characteristics, re-allocating the wafers to lots based upon the identified characteristics, and performing additional processing operations on the identified wafers having similar characteristics in the re-allocated lots. In one illustrative embodiment, the system comprises a first processing tool for performing processing operations on each of a plurality of wafers in each of a plurality of wafer lots, a controller for identifying processed wafers having similar characteristics and re-allocating the wafers to lots based upon the identified characteristics, and a second processing tool adapted to perform additional processing operations on the identified wafers having similar characteristics in the re-allocated lot.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is generally directed to the field of semiconductor manufacturing, and, more particularly, to dynamic lot allocation based upon wafer state characteristics, and a system for accomplishing same.
2. Description of the Related Art
Modern integrated circuit devices are comprised of millions of devices, e.g., transistors, formed above a semiconductor wafer comprised of, for example, silicon. Typically, integrated circuit devices are formed above a substrate in the shape of a flat, cylindrical wafer. Current semiconductor manufacturing operations use 8-inch diameter wafers. However, it is anticipated that 12-inch diameter wafers will be used in the immediate future. Additional increases in wafer size may also occur in the more distant future.
In general, the process of forming integrated circuits involves the formation of layers or films of material, selective removal of portions of those layers, introducing dopant atoms into the substrate at predefined locations, and formation of a plurality of conductive interconnections that will allow the devices to electrically communicate with one another and perform their intended function. The processes involved include, for example, deposition processes, etching processes, ion implantation processes, photolithography processes, thermal growth processes and various heat treating processes. The processes may be performed in a variety of process flows or sequences to form completed integrated circuit devices. Given the very small feature sizes on modern integrated circuit devices, e.g., 0.18 xcexcm and less, great care is taken in performing each and every processing step, e.g., deposition, etch, polish, etc., in an effort to achieve the precision required to form the small features on modern integrated circuit devices.
Nevertheless, despite efforts to the contrary, processed wafers may exhibit variations in one or more characteristics or states. For example, with reference to FIG. 1, when a process layer 12, e.g., silicon dioxide, is formed above a wafer 10 and thereafter subjected to a chemical mechanical polishing process, a surface 14 of the process layer 12 may be domed as a result of a so-called edge-fast (or center-slow) polishing process (the view depicted in FIG. 1 is exaggerated for purposes of explanation). Alternatively, although not depicted in FIG. 1, the surface 14 of the process layer 12 may be dished as a result of a center-fast (or edge-slow) polishing process. By way of another example, as depicted in FIG. 2, due to a variety of factors, gate electrodes 16 formed above different regions of a wafer 10 may exhibit significantly different critical dimensions 15. For example, as depicted in FIG. 2, the gate electrodes 16 near an edge region 18 have a larger critical dimension 15 as compared to the critical dimension 15 of gate electrodes 16 near a center region 20 of the wafer 10. As another example, in photolithography operations, a layer of photoresist may be formed such that the thickness of the layer of photoresist is greater at the edge of the wafer 10 as compared to the center of the wafer 10.
All of these variations can have an adverse impact on subsequent processing, device yields and overall manufacturing efficiencies. For example, if a process layer is formed too thick in a given region, this over-thickness may determine the minimum required etch time for the entire layer, as complete removal of the etched portions of the process layer must be assured. As a result, the additional etch time required to etch through the additional thickness of the process layer may damage the underlying process layers, and/or cause difficulty in maintaining feature size accuracy in other areas of the process layer. As another example, forming a layer of photoresist above a process layer that has a domed or dished surface profile may result in the layer of photoresist having areas of differing thickness. As a result, subsequent exposure processes performed in a stepper tool may be adversely impacted. For example, given the variation in photoresist thickness, there may be unacceptable deviations in the critical dimension of photoresist features formed in areas of the layer of photoresist having different thicknesses.
Efforts have been made to adjust various process parameters based upon wafer characteristic variations. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, if it is determined that, as a result of a polishing process, a process layer 12 has a domed surface 14, a subsequent layer 17 (indicated by dashed lines) formed above the domed layer 12 may be formed using a deposition process that is designed or modified to deposit more material on the edge region 18 of the wafer 10 than in the center region 20 of the wafer 10. Other modifications may be made to other processes in an effort to compensate for such variations in wafer characteristics. However, all of these methodologies generally involve varying one or more parameters of a processing operation on a lot-by-lot or wafer-by-wafer basis. Such methodologies may, in some cases, require extensive capital, material and labor to implement, and they may not be necessary or appropriate for some semiconductor manufacturing operations.
The present invention is directed to a method that may solve, or at least reduce, some or all of the aforementioned problems.
In one illustrative embodiment, the method comprises providing a plurality of wafer lots, each of the lots comprising a plurality of wafers, performing at least one process operation on at least some of the wafers in each of the plurality of lots, identifying processed wafers having similar characteristics, re-allocating the wafers to lots based upon the identified characteristics, and performing additional processing operations on the identified wafers having similar characteristics in the re-allocated lots. In a further embodiment, the method involves identifying wafers having similar across-wafer characteristics and re-allocating the lots of wafers on that basis.
In another illustrative embodiment, the present invention is directed to a system comprised of a first processing tool for performing processing operations on each of a plurality of wafers in each of a plurality of wafer lots, a controller for identifying processed wafers having similar characteristics and re-allocating the wafers to lots based upon the identified characteristics, and a second processing tool adapted to perform additional processing operations on the identified wafers having similar characteristics in the re-allocated lot.

Dynamic lot allocation based upon wafer state characteristics, and system for accomplishing same


A safe, quick-drawing holster includes: (a) a frame support (23) with an open top, the frame support comprising a bottom end (22) and at least one side panel (15); (b) a retention assembly (30) including a retention bracket (31), a retention plate (34) adjacent to a side of the retention bracket, and a trigger-impinging means (37) projecting from a side of the retention plate (34) into the retention bracket (31); (c) a spring-loaded actuator assembly (29) including an actuator (40) connected to an actuator arm (42), a portion of the actuator (40) extending through the side panel (15) to the outside, a portion of the actuator arm (42) extending inwardly through the side panel 15 into the retention bracket (31) and to the retention plate (34); and (d) a stabilizer spring assembly (79) including a stabilizer pin (81) having a base affixed to panel of the holster, and a movable power spring (80) substantially surrounding the stabilizer pin. A method of using the holster is also included herein.

1. Technical Field
The present device is a gun holster with a stabilizer spring assembly and actuator assembly that allow for quick release of the gun, and a safety assembly and retention assembly for keeping the gun securely in the holster when it is not in use.
2. Background Information
Many policemen and security guards across our nation are killed each year by their own guns. Criminals occasionally take an officer""s gun right out of his holster, or wrest the officer""s handgun from his hands, and shoot the officer or a bystander. In order to protect officers and guards from such people, there is a need for a gun holster that prohibits access by all but its wearer, yet allows a quick draw.
Unfortunately, safety and quick-release appear to be mutually exclusive terms. When safety is improved by making a more complex safety on the gun, draw time is oftentimes increased. In order to protect officers and other innocent victims, both qualities are needed. Officers"" holsters must be safe, and their draw must be fast so that they can protect themselves and others from threats.
The present invention is a secure, quick-release gun holster. With the present invention, the officer has ready access to his gun, if he should require it in the course of his duties. At the same time, the present invention prevents an attacker from grabbing the officer""s weapon from his or her holster and using it on the officer or others. This invention also acts to prevent accidental withdrawal of the gun from the holster.
The solution is made more complicated by the many different types of handguns that can be used in a holster. For example, a Glock is a bulky, polymer frame gun with a wide trigger guard, while a Baretta is designed for military use by a soldier with a gloved hand. It has a long trigger guard. A holster that can function well with different types of handguns, like the present invention, is more versatile and useful.
The holster of the present invention is safe, lightweight, and quick-release. It generally includes an open front to allow easy removal of the gun, a bottom loading spring providing quick release of the gun, a retention assembly by means of which the gun is retained in the holster when desired, a hand-operated actuator assembly by means of which the gun is released from the retention assembly, and a safety that will not accidentally release. Most embodiments are also adaptable for the future, consistent performers, and provide feedback to the user.
The present invention is a quick-drawing holster for retaining a handgun having a trigger and trigger guard, the holster comprising:
(a) a frame support with an open top, the frame support comprising a bottom end and at least one side panel;
(b) a retention assembly comprising a retention bracket, a retention plate adjacent to a side of the retention bracket, and a trigger-impinging means projecting from a side of the retention plate into the retention bracket;
(c) a spring-loaded actuator assembly comprising an actuator connected to an actuator arm, at least a portion of the actuator extending through the side panel to the outside, at least a portion of the actuator arm extending inwardly through the side panel into the retention bracket and to the retention plate; and
(d) a stabilizer spring assembly comprising a stabilizer pin having a base affixed to panel of the holster, and a movable power spring substantially surrounding the stabilizer pin. The holster preferably also includes (e) a safety assembly, which comprises a safety button or switch affixed to a rear panel of the holster.
Also included herein is a method of using a gun holster, comprising the steps of:
(a) moving a safety button into an xe2x80x9conxe2x80x9d position, which moves a safety lock arm connected to the safety button into an up position, which moves a safety lock arm hook connected to the safety lock arm away from an actuator arm, the actuator arm being attached to an actuator, so that the actuator is depressible; and
(b) depressing the actuator, which causes the actuator arm to move toward a retention assembly at an end portion of the actuator arm, the retention assembly comprising a retention bracket adjacent to a retention plate, a retention wedge and retention pin projecting from a same side of the retention plate through holes in the retention bracket, the end of the actuator arm pushing the retention plate away from the retention bracket, thus disengaging the retention wedge and retention pin from the retention bracket, and therefore from a trigger and trigger guard of a handgun restrained in the holster, so that the handgun may be drawn from the holster; and preferably further including the steps of:
(c) releasing the actuator, causing tension in an actuator spring around the actuator arm to push the actuator arm back to an initial position, causing the actuator arm to pull the retention plate back to its previous position; and
(d) replacing the handgun in the holster, thus allowing the trigger guard to slide past the retention wedge, forcing the retention plate away from the retention bracket, disengaging the retention plate until the trigger guard has slipped past the retention wedge, allowing the retention plate to return by force of the actuator spring to a secure position, whereby the trigger guard is again positioned between the retention wedge and retention pin, thus restraining the handgun in the holster.


A method and apparatus for finish rolling long products such as bars, rods and the like, comprising: in a first operational mode, rolling the products through a finishing block and a reducing sizing mill arranged on a primary pass line; and in a second operational mode, diverting the products from the primary pass line to a secondary pass line bypassing the finishing block and then back to the primary pass line for rolling in the reducing sizing mill. Optionally and preferably, a cooling unit is shifted between the primary and secondary pass lines to cool products being rolled in each operational mode.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to continuous rolling mills for rolling long products such as bars, rods and the like, and is concerned in particular with an improved layout for the finishing section of such mills.
2. Description of the Prior Art
As shown for example in U.S. Pat. No. 5,325,697 (Shore et al.), the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference, it is known to roll products sequentially in finishing blocks and post finishing blocks (commonly referred to as "reducing sizing mills") arranged along a common primary pass line. Although this practice has many advantages which have resulted in its widespread commercial acceptance, one disadvantage stems from the inability to continue utilizing the reducing sizing mill while the upstream finishing block is being serviced or reconfigured to roll different products.


Embodiments of the present invention relate to a scriptable plug-in API. According to the invention, all of the interfaces in a conventional, non-scriptable plug-in API are mapped to similar interfaces in a scriptable plug-in API. There is no need to change the existing plug-in APIs. In one embodiment, a set of interfaces and a set of wrappers are used to bind the new, scriptable plug-in API to the old one. In another embodiment, C++ wrappers are written to bridge new API to the old one. Inter-threading calls for plug-ins are also made possible using a proxy that functions with scriptable interfaces. In another embodiment, the plug-in is written for a Mozilla™/Netscape™ 6.x browser. In another embodiment, the scripting languages used to develop the plug-in include Python, JavaScript, and Perl.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an application programming interface (API) for writing a scriptable plug-in.
2. Background Art
Platform independent programming languages allow a virtual machine to be opened in a host application. The virtual machine creates its own environment within the host application and runs computer programs in its environment without regard to the type of computer system the host application is running. This is useful, for instance, when a person is using the Internet and the virtual machine is opened in a host application such as a web browser.
To extend the functionality of the web browser, plug-ins are used. The use of a plug-in allows a developer to write a computer program that performs some desired task from within the web browser. For instance, a common plug-in relates to sound. When a web page on the Internet is encountered that uses sound, the appropriate plug-in is initiated and it instructs the web browser how to handle the sounds and play them for the user.
An application program interface (API) is often used by a developer to create plug-ins. Current plug-in APIs are non-scriptable, meaning that they cannot be implemented in scripting languages such as Javascript, Perl or Python. This is disadvantageous because the large number of script developers and existing scripting codes cannot be leveraged in plug-in programming. Before further discussing this problem, an overview of platform independent programming languages is provided.
Platform Independent Programming Language
An example of a platform independent programming language is the Java™ technology platform. A program which utilizes Java™ technology is composed of a number of classes and interfaces. Unlike many programming languages, in which a program is compiled into machine-dependent, executable program code, programs which utilize Java™ technology are compiled into machine independent bytecode class files. Each class contains code and data in a platform-independent format called the class file format. The computer system acting as the execution vehicle contains a program called a virtual machine, which is responsible for executing the code in classes. The virtual machine provides a level of abstraction between the machine independence of the bytecode classes and the machine-dependent instruction set of the underlying computer hardware. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a sample network application environment, for instance a Java™ technology network application environment, comprising a client platform 102 coupled over a network 101 to a server 100 for the purpose of accessing class files for execution of an application or applet.
Sample Network Application Environment
In FIG. 1, server 100 comprises development environment 104 for use in creating the class files for a given application. The development environment 104 provides a mechanism, such as an editor and an applet viewer, for generating class files and previewing applets. A set of core classes 103 comprise a library of classes that can be referenced by source files containing other classes. From development environment 104, one or more source files 105 are generated. Source files 105 contain the programmer readable class definitions, including data structures, method implementations and references to other classes. Source files 105 are provided to compiler 106, which compiles source files 105 into compiled ".class" files 107 that contain bytecodes executable by a virtual machine. Bytecode class files 107 are stored (e.g., in temporary or permanent storage) on server 100, and are available for download over network 101.
Client platform 102 contains a virtual machine (VM) 111 which, through the use of available native operating system (O/S) calls 112, is able to execute bytecode class files and execute native O/S calls when necessary during execution. Class files are often identified in applet tags within an HTML (hypertext markup language) document. A web server application 108 is executed on server 100 to respond to HTTP (hypertext transport protocol) requests containing URLs (universal resource locators) to HTML documents, also referred to as "web pages." When a browser application executing on client platform 102 requests an HTML document, such as by forwarding URL 109 to web server 108, the browser automatically initiates the download of the class files 107 identified in the applet tag of the HTML document. Class files 107 are typically downloaded from the server and loaded into virtual machine 111 individually as needed.
It is typical for the classes of a program to be loaded as late during the program's execution as possible; they are loaded on demand from the network (stored on a server), or from a local file system, when first referenced during the program's execution. The virtual machine locates and loads each class file, parses the class file format, allocates memory for the class's various components, and links the class with other already loaded classes. This process makes the code in the class readily executable by the virtual machine.
Plug-In API
With the understanding of platform independent programming languages and networking environment in place, the obstacles of non-scriptable Plug-in API is now discussed. There are two main obstacles. First, current plug-in APIs are non-scriptable, meaning that they cannot be implemented in scripting languages such as Javascript, Perl or Python. This is disadvantageous because the large number of script developers and existing scripting codes cannot be leveraged in plug-in programming.
The second obstacle is found the non-scriptable limitation of XPCOM (Cross Platform Component Object Model). XPCOM is a technology that allows software components written in various programming languages to communicate with one another within the browser environment. However, the powerful potential of having software modules written in different languages working together does not extend to modules written in scripting languages. As such, software components developed in XPCOM cannot be bound to software modules implemented in scriptable languages.

Scriptable plug-in application programming interface


An adjustable mechanism is provided for adjusting a seat back of a stroller which has two vertical posts. The adustable mechanism includes a stop disposed on each vertical post, a sleeve, and a button insertable into the sleeve. the vertical post and the stop are slidably received in the sleeve and the button. A spring element viases the button forward to engage with the stop so that the sleeve can not move downwrad. The sleeve is freely movable downwards along the vertical post when the button is slightly depressed against the spring element.

The present invention relates to an adjustable mechanism, and more particularly to an adjustable mechanism for a seat back of a stroller.
The increasing local travel of parents in and about the suburbs on errands and the like and the fact that their young children usually accompany them, has brought forth the need for convenient strollers or the like. Strollers and baby carriages usually have seats comprising flat, hinged-together boards surrounded by flexible fabric. The seat backs thereof are usually upright and unadjustable, which is not comfortable for infants who sleep most of the time.
The present invention has arisen to mitigate and/or obviate the afore-described disadvantages of the conventional seat back of the strollers.

Adjustable mechanism for a seat back of a stroller


Disclosed is a system for providing an air lubricating layer between the hull of a vessel and the water flowing under the hull as the vessel is moving through the water, including an air cavity and a wave deflector having a planar bottom surface which faces the interface plane and extends parallel thereto and is arranged in an air cavity of the air lubrication system at a distance of 2-15 cm from the interface plane, wherein the bottom surface has a peripheral edge that is spaced apart from the sidewalls by a gap having a width of 0.5-15 cm, wherein, when viewed in projection onto a plane wherein the planar bottom surface extends, at least 85% of the area of the opening is covered by the wave deflector and/or the planar bottom surface thereof, more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95%.

WO 2010/064911 describes how to generate a layer of micro bubbles on the hull of a displacement vessel in order to reduce frictional drag, by means of a cavity being provided in a flat bottom area of the hull of a vessel, such that an opening of the cavity is at the flat bottom area. Air is injected into the cavity at such a rate that the water level in the cavity is kept substantially at the level of the hull of the vessel. Due to the forward movement of the vessel, the air in the cavity will move relative to the water at the speed at which the vessel is moving, or seen from the cavity, the water will flow past the cavity at that speed. This difference in velocity between the air and the water causes a so-called Kelvin Helmholtz Instability (KHI) which results in a mixing of air and water at the interface between the water and the air, and in a consequential generation of a layer of small sized air bubbles. The small size of these air bubbles makes them very stable and they tend to stay in the water for a relative long period. The small bubbles generated in the cavity are released there from at the rear edge of the cavity such that they form a stable lubricating layer extending a long distance along the bottom of the hull downstream of the cavity. In this way energy savings in propulsion of a vessel can be achieved.
WO 2015/133900 describes providing a number of wave deflectors that extend transversely across the cavity and are connected to sidewalls of the cavity, wherein the wave deflectors are arranged for facilitating emptying of an air cavity during start up. The wave deflectors reduce turbulence inside the cavity and cause air to be retained inside the cavity for a longer period of time such that compressors of reduced capacity for less powerful air injection during start up are required. By providing a wave deflector inside the cavity with a relatively long dimension in the cavity length direction, the cavity can be filled with air effectively while the vessel is sailing, e.g. at a speed of 20 knots. In operation, the deflector effectively shields the air-filled cavity from water entry due to waves and roll motions of the vessel, the elongate deflector part keeping the water surface inside the cavity stable during roll motions, such that a stable operation of the cavity is warranted. The deflectors are welded to the sidewalls
Though an air lubrication system provided with such wave deflectors significantly reduces the drag on the hull of a vessel when in operation, i.e. when providing the air lubricating layer, when the system is not in operation the air cavities increase the drag on the hull.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an air lubrication system and vessel with reduced drag on the hull of the vessel, even when the air lubrication system is switched off.
It is a further object to provide an air lubrication system which is less susceptible to debris becoming lodged in the air cavity of the air lubrication system.
The present invention further aims to provide an air lubrication system in a relatively low volume of air suffices for expelling water from the air cavity

Air lubrication system with a wave deflector for a vessel


The present invention is directed to a device for manufacturing foam cushions with coverings. The device broadly includes:. (i) a mold having an upper half and a lower half and having a mix head associated therewith, wherein at least one half of said mold consists of a cavity and a surrounding stretching rim, the inner walls of said cavity having suction channels therein, said suction channels being connected to a vacuum source such that when a vacuum is applied, a covering is sucked into said cavity and against said inner walls, and PA1 (ii) a tenter adapted to be placed over said rim, said tenter having. (1) an elastic, flexible roller element rotatably mounted in a groove in said tenter, said roller element being further characterized as. (a) being capable of twisting around its axis, PA3 (b) being located in the region of the tenter which comes into contact with said rim, and PA3 (c) allowing said covering to slide when said covering is being sucked into said cavity.. The device further includes an elastic bearing member which presses down upon said roller element over the full length of said roller element, to thereby press said roller element against said covering.

The present invention is directed to a device for manufacturing cushions with back-foamed covers, and in particular motor car seat cushions. The device broadly consists of a mold with an associated mix head. One half of the mold consists of a cavity and a stretching rim surrounding the cavity. The inner wall of the cavity is provided with suction channels which are in turn connected to a vacuum source. A tenter (or stretcher) is placed over the cavity and a roller element associated with the tenter presses the covering material against the stretching rim.
Roller elements have already been provided in the form of rollers mounted on axles, in order to have better control over the sliding of the cover material during suction into the mold (see U.S. Pat. No. 3,943,215). One problem with this earlier device is that such rollers cannot adjust to curves and thus may only be used in straight, flat regions of the rim. The geometry of the mold causes the cover material to travel shorter distances at some points, and longer distances at others, during drawing-in. It has turned out that the use of rollers does not sufficiently allow for this.
The problem is in improving the device of the type noted, so that the cover material could slide free of folds, or with reproducible folds at desired places, into the mold cavity.

Device for manufacturing foam cushions with a covering


A computer-implemented method for determining cost efficient order fulfillment system. A list of items is received in a purchase order for delivery. A quality score comprising a shipping history score, an inventory accuracy score, and a handling score is calculated for each retail location. The retail location with the lowest cost and the highest quality score is selected to ship the order.

There are two basic methods for purchasing items. In the first method, the purchaser goes to a store, selects the item they want, purchases the items and takes the items back with them. In the second method, the purchaser submits an order for the item(s), the vendor packages the item and ships it to the purchaser. Packaging and shipping all the items in an order is referred to as fulfillment of the order. Packaging of the items is often referred to as handling and can include selecting the items from shelves or other containers, placing the items in boxes or other shipping containers, and placing a shipping label on the shipping structure(s) that will allow a carrier to deliver the shipping structure(s) to the proper destination.
Accordingly, it is desirable to provide customers with prompt shipping and a high quality shipping service.

System for cost efficient order fulfillment


An N-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) transistor includes a first gate and a first spacer structure disposed on a first sidewall of the first gate in a first direction. The first spacer structure has a first thickness in the first direction and measured from an outermost point of an outer surface of the first spacer structure to the first sidewall. A P-type metal oxide semiconductor (PMOS) transistor includes a second gate and a second spacer structure disposed on a second sidewall of the second gate in the first direction and measured from an outermost point of an outer surface of the second spacer structure to the second sidewall. The second spacer structure has a second thickness that is greater than the first thickness. The NMOS transistor is a pass-gate of a static random access memory (SRAM) cell, and the PMOS transistor is a pull-up of the SRAM cell.

In deep sub-micron integrated circuit technology, an embedded static random access memory (SRAM) device has become a popular storage unit of high speed communication, image processing and system-on-chip (SOC) products. The amount of embedded SRAM in microprocessors and SOCs increases to meet the performance requirement in each new technology generation. As silicon technology continues to scale from one generation to the next, parasitic effects may be impacting SRAM device performance more and more. For example, device parasitics and gap filling issues may become a greater factor as semiconductor feature sizes continue to shrink, which may lead to sub-par SRAM performance or even device failures.
Therefore, although existing SRAM devices have been generally adequate for their intended purposes, they have not been entirely satisfactory in every aspect.

SRAM speed and margin optimization via spacer tuning

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.


The present invention relates, in general, to movement disorders and, in particular, to a method of treating movement disorders, including Parkinson's Disease.

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent of the neurodegenerative disorders. PD results from the death of 60-70% of the dopaminergic neurons located in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The motor symptoms of the disease are characterized by bradykinesia or akinesia, rigidity, resting tremors, and gait disturbances (Fahn, Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 991:1-14 (2003)). Currently, dopamine replacement therapy with levodopa is the most widely accepted treatment for PD. Chronic use of the drug, however, leads to long-term complications, such as on-off states and dyskinesia, for about 60% of the patients. Moreover, a large percentage of these patients become unresponsive to the drug, rendering such pharmacological therapy ineffective after a few years.
The most common alternative to dopamine replacement therapy is the direct electrical stimulation of deep brain areas, such as the basal ganglia and thalamus. This therapy is generically known as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). In patients with severe PD motor symptoms, chronic continuous high frequency electrical stimulation of motor brain regions, such as the subthalamic nucleus, globus pallidus, or thalamus, can decrease tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. DBS also permits the reduction of dopaminergic medication, minimizing the long-term side effects associated with pharmacotherapy.
Unfortunately, DBS requires a stereotactic, high-precision, intracranial surgical procedure, and its efficacy depends on the accuracy of targeting brain nuclei. Additionally, DBS surgery can be associated with serious complications, including intracranial hemorrhage (3.9%) and infections (1.7%). Adverse events related to the device include electrode replacement (4.4%), device dysfunction (3.0%), infection (1.9%) and migration (1.52%) (Kleiner-Fisman et al, Mov. Disord. 21, Suppl 14:5290-5304 (2006)). Thus, despite clear advantages of DBS over L-DOPA therapy, its use is typically restricted to patients in the late stages of PD that are medically stable enough to undergo surgery. That restricts considerably the total number of patients who can benefit from this rather invasive neurosurgical procedure.
The precise neural mechanism by which DBS exerts it effects remains unknown. However, some evidence suggests that its action occurs through the disruption of characteristic aberrant low frequency (<10 Hz) synchronized activity of neuronal populations of basal ganglia and/or motor cortex observed in parkinsonian states (Brown, Mov. Disord. 18:357-363 (2003); Brown et al, Exp. Neurol. 188:480-490 (2004); Costa et al, Neuron. 52:359-369 (2006); Gatev et al, Mov. Disord. 21:1566-1577 (2006)).
The present invention provides new approaches to the utilization of neurostimulation as a continuous therapy for controlling the primary motor symptoms of PD and other movement disorders (e.g. essential tremor (Benabid et al, Lancet 337:403-406 (1991))). The methods to which the invention relates are less invasive than DBS and avoid the complications associated with intracranial surgery.

Method of treating parkinson's disease and other movement disorders