The invention provides topical pharmaceutical gel compositions for the treatment of chronic skin damage, specifically for damage caused by neuropathic ulcers and preferably for the treatment of diabetic foot, and in the treatment of vascular ulcers wherein said compositions comprise a combination of Modified Diallyl Disulfide Oxide (M-DDO) (as an antiseptic/antibiotic agent) and 5-methyl-1-phenyl-2(1H)-pyridone.

The word ulcer comes from the Latin ulcer plural of ulcus, sore. It is defined as a continuity solution with loss of substance from any epithelial surface of the organism, with little or no tendency to spontaneous healing. Is also accepted the definition of more specific pathological processes, such as loss of skin or mucous substance, consequence of a pathological process, which in depth affect at least sub-epithelial connective tissue. Ulcers due to trauma are called wounds.
The ulcers can reach the superficial or deep dermis, the hypodermis or they can reach the fascia, and even the underlying bone. Due to its evolution, ulcers can be classified generically as acute and chronic.
Ulceration is any loss of the substance of the skin, if it is superficial, it is called erosion or exulceration, such as a blister that breaks; if the germinative layer is not injured, there will be no scar.
The ulceration can cover all the layers of the skin and reach the subcutaneous cellular tissue and even deep planes. When they are linear, they are known as fissures or cracks.
Chronic ulceration is the solution of continuity with loss of substance from any epithelial surface of the organism, with little or no tendency to spontaneous and long-lasting scarring (>6 weeks) or with frequent recurrence.
The process of tissue regeneration is given by a balance between degradation and synthesis of new tissue, through three phases: inflammation, proliferation and remodeling. When there is an imbalance between the production and degradation of tissue, it results in the chronic presence of an epithelial lesion in the form of an ulcer, that is, a solution of continuity of the epithelial surface, which tends to a slight healing.
In ulcers, chronic inflammation due to infection, necrotic tissue or foreign bodies, favors the release of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) as well as metalloproteases whose function is to degrade extracellular matrix proteins. Therefore, upon raising the levels of metalloproteases, the destruction of the extracellular matrix is favored.
A key cytokine in this pathophysiological process is the transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1). TGF-β1 stimulates the process of fibrogenesis and modulates the activity of some growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), among others.
In chronic injuries, the balance of the process is broken regardless of the type of ulcer problem the patient attends. It can be said, that the alterations in the process of tissue regeneration are due to alterations in the balance between the production of new tissue and the degradation effects that cause a lesion to become chronic.
Among the chronic ulcers, which are increasingly affecting the population, are diabetic foot ulcers, pressure or decubitus ulcers (bedsores), as well as vascular, arterial and venous ulcers.
Since the alterations in the process show deficiencies in the expression of growth factors, it has been sought to control these alterations, being studied among others, the Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) and the Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor (GCSF).
Unfortunately, GF despite its promising results, have the disadvantage that still need to be obtained by complex biotechnological processes and their production, more than difficult, it is expensive; what affects the treatment of the patient.
Diabetic Foot
Diabetic foot is a clinical entity that refers to the resulting syndrome from the interaction of predisposing factors (such as angiopathy, neuropathy and infection), upon extrinsic and intrinsic triggers (such as trauma, local hygiene and bone deformities), due to chronic hyperglycemia present in the diabetic patient.
Such syndrome is considered one of the complications of diabetes mellitus, being the most common cause of non-traumatic amputation in people over 50 years of age. 85% of amputations are preceded by an ulcer in the foot, which decreases the quality of life of the patient since only one third of these patients walk again using prosthesis. Added to this, approximately 30% of these patients die in the first year and it is estimated that, after 5 years, 50% suffer amputation of the other limb.
Vascular Ulcers
Are classified as:                Arterial ulcers,        Venous ulcers.Arterial Ulcers
Represent the second cause of skin ulcers on the legs. Are those ulcers produced by arterial insufficiency, with loss of arterial blood supply by either, chronic arterial vasoconstriction, obstruction or malformation.
Obstruction, vasoconstriction and arterial malformation They occur in scleroderma, extramural processes, progeria, arteriosclerosis, vasculitis, vaso-spastic disorders, thrombosis, embolism, Raynaud's phenomenon, coagulation disorders and tissue scars.
Appearance and Location
Arterial ulcers are of variable size, from a few millimeters to several centimeters, sometimes occurring on the entire surface of the leg, may be single or multiple ulcer, oval, round or irregular, unilateral or bilateral, with borders well defined (discretely elevated) and atrophic background, gray or black base, with little granulation tissue. They are usually located in bony prominences and metatarsal heads, mainly in the middle perimalleolar area, frequently in the inner region of the lower third of the leg.
Venous Ulcers
Represent the most frequent cause of cutaneous ulcers in the legs. The majority of chronic ulcers in the lower pelvic limbs are secondary to chronic venous stasis due to postphlebitic syndrome or arteriovenous shunts.
They are also defined as ulcers produced by chronic venous insufficiency, given by valvular incompetence.
Appearance and Location
Venous ulcers present with ill-defined borders (irregular and elevated) and granulomatous fundus. They are usually located on the inner side region of pelvic limbs.
Bedsores
Produced by pressure, friction or continuous friction of the tissues between two planes, that is, the bony prominence of the patient and an external surface, for a prolonged period.
The developed invention comprises the combination of an antimicrobial agent and 5-methyl-1-phenyl-2(H)pyridone (Pirfenidone), which application in the treatment of chronic ulcers has given results that have exceeded therapeutic expectations.
Antibiotic is defined as "those chemical substances produced by various species of microorganisms (bacteria, ascomycetes and fungi) or chemically synthesized, which have the ability to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and cause their destruction". Several formulations have been designed for systemic and topical use, which indication is based on the therapeutic needs determined by the nature of the patient's infectious condition and the medical criteria. When we speak of antimicrobial agents, a large arsenal of substances is included, ranging from antibacterial (antibiotics), antituberculous agents, antifungals, antiseptics to antiviral agents.
Topical antibiotic agents have a fundamental role in dermatology and represent an option against systemic agents in highly localized skin infections and without systemic compromise, for both outpatients and inpatients.
Topical antibiotics have a more selective toxicity that allows them to inhibit the development of bacterial cells or destroy them respecting the host cells. Topical antibiotics can create microbial resistances and cause sensitization by cross-reactions. It is considered as an ideal topical antibiotic when it has the following characteristics:
1. A broad spectrum of activity for skin pathogens.
2. A persistent antibacterial effect.
3. Low capacity to induce resistance.
4. Absence of cross-resistance with antibiotics for systemic use.
5. Good tolerability, low incidence of allergy.
6. Minimum or absence of toxicity and incidence of allergy.
7. Penetration in skin and scabs.
8. Low cost.
Antimicrobial Characterization of M-DDO
Diallyl Disulfide Oxide (ODD) also known as allicin, is the product of the catalysis of the aliin, found in garlic (Allium sativum), by the intervention of the enzyme allinase. It is a sulfur compound that has various pharmacological activities of interest. By virtue of being a very unstable compound, ODD loses its properties quickly. It has been shown that ODD has in vitro activity against Candida albicans, some species of Trichomonas, Staphylococcus aureus; Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, S. paratyphi, Shigella dysenterica and Vibro cholerae.
Through a process of semi-synthetic synthesis, it has been possible to stabilize the Diallyl Disulfide Oxide, adding a cofactor. The resulting compound is called Modified Disulfide Diallyl Oxide [M-DDO], which is much more stable than allicin and apparently retains its properties.
Modified Diallyl Disulphide Oxide [M-DDO], is the chemical compound called [1,2-diallyl-1-(5-methyl-tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yloxy)disulfuronium]+6- [(benzyl, methyl, octylammonium) (hydroxymethylamine)(methylamine)]-tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3-oxy]chloride; which structural formula is represented below:

In several investigations published in refereed journals, the activity of allicin has been demonstrated; however, its poor stability has been a limitation in its possible therapeutic applications. Consequently, it is clear that the use of the stability properties of the M-DDO complex will allow its therapeutic application based on the antibacterial and antiseptic properties, among other known properties of allicin. This antimicrobial agent meets the aforementioned characteristics of an ideal antimicrobial because it has a broad spectrum of activity for skin pathogens, has a persistent antibacterial effect, has a low capacity to induce resistance due to its triple antimicrobial action mechanism, and does not present cross-resistance with antibiotics for systemic use. Has good tolerability, low incidence of allergy and minimal or no toxicity and incidence of allergy.
The M-DDO molecule is described in the patent application number MX 2012003874 A, which gives the present invention an additional novel feature, by using an innovative molecule for its pharmacological use.
Characterization of Pirfenidone
Complementarily, 5-methyl-1-phenyl-2(1H)-pyridone, which structural formula is shown below:

Is a drug that has been applied in the restoration of tissues with injuries that occur with fibrosis and for the prevention of fibrotic injuries. Such compound, called Pirfenidone, is itself a known compound and its pharmacological effects have been described in, for example, Japanese applications KOKAI Nos. 87677/1974 and 1284338/1976, as an anti-inflammatory agent that includes antipyretics and analgesics effects. U.S. Pat. No. 3,839,346, published on Oct. 1, 1974, U.S. Pat. No. 3,974,281, published on Aug. 10, 1976, U.S. Pat. No. 4,042,699, published on Aug. 16, 1977, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,052,509, published on Oct. 4, 1977, describe methods for obtaining Pirfenidone, as well as its use as an anti-inflammatory agent, since it acts as:                1. A potent inhibitor of factors that act in the inflammatory phase of healing (TNF-alpha, IL-1, IL-6).        2. Powerful inhibitor of NFkB. This transcriptional factor is the most important in the regulation of the transcription of genes that code for pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6.        3. Cytokines regulator that stimulate fibroblasts and keratinocytes to promote the production of collagen fibers and the formation of granulation tissue necessary to "fill" the wound, an example of this is TGF-β1, considered the main profibrogenic cytokine.                    TGF-beta 1 (Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1).                        4. Potent inducer of TGF-beta 3 production, that acts as re-epithelization agent.        5. Powerful enzyme modulator (at the genetic and protein level) called metalloproteases (collagenases) that are responsible for degrading fibrotic tissue.        6. Powerful MODULATOR of TIMPs (Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteases) which allows REGULATING the action of the enzymes described above and that help in the remodeling of the tissue.        7. A modulator of the action of other important cytokines involved in the regenerative process of tissues: VEGF, PDGF, FGF, KGF, etc. Because these are "coordinated" by TGF-beta 3, which has proven to be a pluripotential element that acts by regulating the action of these factors.        8. Regulator of the oxide-reduction state in the wound. It decreases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that perpetuate the oxidation of the wound and the inflammatory state.        9. Promoter of the expression of genes that encode ANTIOXIDANTS enzymes such as catalase (CAT), catalytic and regulatory fractions of glutamyl cysteine synthetase (GCLC and GCLM) and Hemo-oxygenase 1 (HMO1).        10. These events described in the previous point results in the sequestration and elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and in the increased production of reduced glutathione, one of the most potent antioxidant systems in the human body.

Topical semisolid composition containing an antimicrobial agent and pirfenidone for the treatment of chronic skin damage

Abstract: Furthermore, the invention describes methods of treatment, applications and/or pharmaceutical uses in the preparation of medicaments for eliminating, reducing or preventing chronic skin lesions and the damages caused by neuropathic ulcers and particularly in the treatment of diabetic foot and in the treatment of vascular ulcers.


A sheet-feed device, including: a sheet accommodating portion for accommodating sheets; a sheet-feed roller which feeds one of the sheets located uppermost among the accommodated sheets; an inclined sheet-separation plate; separation pawls arranged on the sheet-separation plate for cooperating with the roller to separate the one of the sheets from the other sheets; a sheet guide member supported on the sheet-separation plate so as to pivot about an axis and including: a first contact portion located on a sheet feeding route and configured to contact the separated sheet; and a second contact portion located on one side of the axis remote from the first contact portion and configured to protrude from the sheet-separation plate so as to contact the separated sheet owing to a pivotal movement of the guide member by a contact of the separated sheet with the first contact portion, whereby the separated sheet is moved away from the separation pawls.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a sheet-feed device configured such that recording sheets stacked on a sheet accommodating portion are separated one by one by a sheet-feed roller or rollers and a plurality of separation pawls, for feeding the separated one of the recording sheets. The invention also relates to the image recording apparatus having an image recording unit for recording an image on the separated one of the recording sheets fed by the sheet-feed device.
2. Discussion of Related Art
An image recording apparatus, such as a printer, a copying machine, a facsimile machine or the like, is generally equipped with a sheet-feed device that separates cut sheets (i.e., recording sheets each as a recording medium) one by one and feeds the separated sheet to an image recording unit of the image recording apparatus.
For instance, Patent Document 1 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2006/0180992 A1 corresponding to JP-A-2006-182481) discloses a sheet-feed device provided on an image recording apparatus. The disclosed sheet-feed device includes: a sheet-supply cassette, as a sheet accommodating portion, opening upward and accommodating a stack of recording sheets; and a sheet-feed roller provided at a distal end of an arm which is disposed above the sheet-supply cassette so as to be pivotable upward and downward. The sheet-supply cassette includes: an inclined sheet-separation plate disposed at its downstream end portion in a sheet-feed direction in which the recording sheets are fed; and a sheet-separation member disposed at a middle portion of the inclined sheet-separation plate in its width direction, i.e., in a width direction of the recording sheets.
The sheet-separation member disclosed in the Patent Document 1 includes: a metal base portion; pawl-like separation protrusions; arm portions each of which supports a corresponding one of the separation protrusions at opposite sides thereof; and leaf spring portions which are formed integrally with the base portion and by which the sheet-separation member is fixed to a prescribed position on a rear surface of the inclined sheet-separation plate. The separation protrusions, the arm portions, and the leaf spring portions are formed on the base portion by press working so as to be arranged in the sheet-feed direction at suitable intervals. Each of the separation protrusions is configured to protrude, by a suitable amount, in a direction in which the separation protrusion is to contact the recording sheet being fed in the sheet-feed direction. Each separation protrusion protrudes through a corresponding one of windows formed in the inclined sheet-separation plate so as to be arranged in the sheet-feed direction.
In the sheet-feed device disclosed in the Patent Document 1, the sheet-feed roller is rotatably driven while pressing an uppermost one of the recording sheets stacked in the sheet-supply cassette, whereby the recording sheets accommodated in the sheet-supply cassette are fed one by one. Since the sheet-feed roller is disposed so as to swing upward and downward, a pressing force with which the sheet-feed roller presses the recording sheets accommodated in the sheet-supply cassette varies depending on a vertical position of the sheet-feed roller, i.e., depending on the amount of the recording sheets stacked in the sheet-supply cassette. In the thus constructed sheet-feed device, where the pressing force of the sheet-feed roller with which the sheet-feed roller presses the recording sheets is large, there may be a risk of so-called multi-feeding, namely, a risk that two or more of the recording sheets are fed at one time in an overlapping state, from the stack of the recording sheets accommodated in the sheet-supply cassette.
In this respect, where two or more of the recording sheets are fed at one time in the sheet-feed device disclosed in the Patent Document 1, leading edges of the respective two or more of the recording sheets come into contact with the separation protrusions provided on the inclined sheet-separation plate, so that the two or more of the sheets being fed in the overlapping state are separated from one another, namely one by one, by a cooperative action of the sheet-feed roller and the separation protrusions. Thus, the above-indicated multi-feeding is prevented in the sheet-feed device disclosed in the Patent Document 1.
The thus separated one of the recording sheets by the cooperative action of the sheet-feed roller and the separation protrusions is fed to the image recording unit disposed above the sheet-supply cassette via a sheet-feed path having a U-turned portion that is provided above the inclined sheet-separation plate, so that an image is recorded on the one of the recording sheets by the image recording unit, and the sheet is consequently discharged through a sheet-discharge portion.
In the thus constructed sheet-feed device disclosed in the Patent Document 1, each of the recording sheets accommodated in the sheet-supply cassette reaches the image recording unit through the sheet-feed path, and the image recording unit records an image on the recording sheet from above the recording sheet. Accordingly, the recording surface of each of the recording sheets on which an image is to be recorded by the image recording unit faces downward in a state in which the recording sheets are accommodated in the sheet-supply cassette. During feeding of each of the recording sheets through the U-turned portion of the sheet-feed path, the recording sheet is turned upside down, so that the recording surface of the recording sheet faces upward.
Before the recording sheet passes through the U-turned portion of the sheet-feed path, the recording sheet is fed on the inclined sheet-separation plate while facing the separation protrusions that are provided on the inclined sheet-separation plate. As described above, since the direction of feeding of each recording sheet is changed during the recording sheet passes through the U-turned path portion whose radius of curvature is small, it is likely that the recording surface of the recording sheet being fed comes into strong contact with the separation protrusions. In this instance, the sheet recording surface may surfer from scratches or damages due to the strong contact with the separation protrusions, undesirably causing a problem that the quality of the image to be recorded on the damaged recording surface is deteriorated.
The above-described problem is serious particularly when a glossy paper which has a larger thickness and is more unlikely to bend, than a plain paper (such as a copy paper), is used. The glossy paper is used exclusively for recording photographic data with use of a large amount of ink and includes a base layer and a coating layer which is superposed on the base layer for adjusting absorption of ink, for instance. One of opposite surfaces of the glossy paper on which the coating layer is formed functions as the recording surface.
Where the glossy paper is used as the recording medium in the sheet-feed device constructed as described above, there may be a possibility that the coating layer on the recording surface comes into contact with the separation protrusions. As mentioned above, the glossy paper has a lager thickness and is more unlikely to bend, than the plain paper. Accordingly, the glossy paper tends to strongly contact the separation protrusions. In other words, where the glossy paper is used as the recording medium, the coating layer on the recording surface may be seriously damaged, resulting in a considerable difference in the image quality between the damaged portion of the recording surface and the other portion of the recording surface. Because the use of the glossy paper has the great advantage of providing or assuring excellent image quality, the deterioration in the image quality due to the damage of the coating layer by the contact with the separation protrusions is quite serious.
In this regard, the sheet-feed device disclosed in the above-indicated Patent Document 1 is configured such that the height, i.e., the amount of protrusion, of one of the separation protrusions located on the most downstream side in the sheet-feed direction is made smaller than that of the other separation protrusions located on the upstream side, thereby reducing the damage of the sheet recording surface.

Sheet-feed device and image recording apparatus equipped with the same


Methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture to generate workscope tasks. An example apparatus includes a workscope task generator and a workscope task processor. The example workscope task generator is to process an asset health quantifier and a next mission criterion for a target asset according to a workscope transfer function to generate a set of workscope tasks for maintenance of the asset at a desired health state to satisfy the next mission criterion, the workscope tasks involving a location, a resource, and a time for maintenance of the engine. When the generated set of workscope tasks does not satisfy a lifecycle expectation for the asset, the generated set of workscope tasks is modified by the workscope task processor to generate a set of targeted, forecast workscope tasks from the modified set of workscope tasks to trigger maintenance of the engine.

In recent years, turbine engines have been increasingly utilized in a variety of applications and fields. Turbine engines are intricate machines with extensive availability, reliability, and serviceability requirements. Traditionally, maintaining turbine engines incur steep costs. Costs generally include having exceptionally skilled and trained maintenance personnel service the turbine engines. In some instances, costs are driven by replacing expensive components or by repairing complex sub-assemblies.
The pursuit of increasing turbine engine availability while reducing premature maintenance costs requires enhanced insight. Such insight is needed to determine when to perform typical maintenance tasks at generally appropriate service intervals. Traditionally, availability, reliability, and serviceability increase as enhanced insight is deployed.
The market for long-term contractual agreements has grown at high rates over recent years for many service organizations. As the service organizations establish long-term contractual agreements with their customers, it becomes important to understand the expected scope of work (also referred to as "workscope") including product, service, and/or other project result. In addition, the service organizations need to have an understanding of the planning of repairs (e.g., shop workload and/or workscope planning) and how the maintenance of components will affect management of their service contracts including time, cost, risk, etc.
The figures are not to scale. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawing(s) and accompanying written description to refer to the same or like parts.

Methods and apparatus to generate an asset workscope operation


Roading lamp assemblies for use on a construction machine are typically mounted to a frame assembly or similar structure. During operation of the construction machine, the roading lamp assembly experiences vibration which may damage an illuminating apparatus therein. The present invention includes utilization of inner and outer resilient members on either side of a housing assembly which is secured to the frame through a plate member and bolts. The plate member has a plurality of legs which extend through a plurality of mounting holes in the housing assembly, the inner and outer resilient members and the frame. The pair of resilient members are pre-loaded through adequate torqueing of the bolts in cooperation with the plurality of legs to protect the illumination apparatus from damage during extreme vibration. Additionally, a harness assembly which supplies electrical energy to a lamp in the roading lamp assembly passes internally through the frame to an interior chamber in the housing assembly. The isolation of the harness assembly from the atmosphere provides protection from debris.

Components which are mounted to a frame on a construction machine, such as a roading lamp assembly, typically experience substantial vibration during operation of the construction machine. The vibration incurred may damage or shorten the life of the roading lamp assembly especially since the roading lamp assembly is normally mounted directly to the frame in direct metal-to-metal contact. Therefore, various methods have been used to protect the roading lamp assembly from the vibration. One such method is the utilization of a rubber mount on the bolt stem. Unfortunately, the rubber mount on the bolt stem is generally not sufficient to protect the delicate internal apparatus within the roading lamp assembly since the rubber mount only has limited, positional vibration control. Additionally, a harness assembly which is necessary to conduct electrical energy to the internal apparatus of the roading lamp assembly has been run externally from the construction machine to the roading lamp assembly which increases the possibility of damage thereto.
The present invention is directed to overcoming the problems as set forth above.


An EUV photoresist composition includes paramagnetic particles that are adapted to block EUV radiation. The magnetic manipulation of the paramagnetic particles within a deposited layer of EUV photoresist can beneficially impact focus control and the achievable line width roughness during subsequent photolithographic processing. A spin-coating apparatus for dispensing the EUV photoresist composition onto a substrate includes a plurality of concentric electromagnets located beneath the substrate that influence the distribution of the paramagnetic particles in the photoresist layer.

The present application relates generally microelectronic device manufacture, and more specifically to an apparatus and methods for fabricating microelectronic device structures using extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography.
Extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography techniques have been implemented in single exposure lithography processes to achieve desired critical dimension (CD) targets in advanced node (e.g., less than 22 nm) microelectronic device manufacture. However, a challenge facing the implementation of EUV materials and methods is the ability to simultaneously achieve a desired line edge roughness and EUV photoresist sensitivity in order to meet industry targets.

Uniformity control of metal-based photoresists


An apparatus for sealing a bag opening includes a retaining member and a slide member adapted to slide into said retaining member. The retaining member includes an elongated opening that extends through at least one open end of the retaining member. A bottom stop is provided at an end of the retaining member that is opposite to the open end of the retaining member. Alternatively, the retaining member includes an elongated opening that extends through both ends of the retaining member and the bottom stop is omitted. The slide member includes at least one protruding portion that protrudes from the retaining member when the slide member is slid into and retained by the retaining member. The slide member abuts the bottom stop of the retaining member when such bottom stop is provided within the retaining member. In cases in which the retaining member is provided with two open ends, the slide member may include two protruding portions that protrude from both open ends of the retaining member.

The present invention relates generally to methods and devices for sealing containers. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for sealing a bag opening.
Modern methods of packaging, storing and marketing a variety of consumable food products has led to an explosion in the use of hermetically sealed bags in the grocery industry. The use of such bags enables manufacturers to provide consumers with a variety of food products having long duration shelf lives and different portion sizes. Once opened by the consumer, however, the product retained in an open bag can begin to degrade rapidly due to exposure to air. Product degradation may occur, for example, due to microbial agents or by atmospheric conditions, such as humidity levels, which might be detrimental to the product contained in the opened bag. Accordingly, in order to avoid spoilage, one must either transfer any unused product from the opened bag to a sealable container or find a way of resealing the bag that prevents, at least to some degree, the penetration of air and subsequent degradation of the product.
One approach to solving the bag resealing problem is to provide the product bag itself with a resealable closure. U.S. Pat. No. 5,138,750 issued to Gundlach et al., for example, illustrates a bag closure structure operated by pressing the opposite sides of a mouth of a bag together. The user squeezes the opposite sides of the mouth together typically with their thumb and index finger and slides their thumb and index finger along the mouth of the bag so that a cooperating interlocking coupling structures are engaged together to form a seal. Once sealed, the mouth of the bag can be reopened by gripping and pulling opposite sides of the mouth of the bag apart to release the interlocking coupling structures. Anyone that has used such a bag closure structure, however, is well aware of how difficult it can sometimes be to properly align the interlocking coupling structures and maintain the alignment while squeezing and sliding the thumb and index finger over them to form a seal. Such bag closure structures also have a tendency to come open under various conditions such as storage in a freezer. Further, the addition of a bag closure structure to the bag itself increases the cost of manufacturing the bag.
An alternative approach to providing a bag closure structure in the structure of the bag itself is to utilize a separate sealing mechanism that can be used to close the open mouth of the bag. A typical example of a separate sealing mechanism is a spring loaded clamping device having a pair of spring loaded elongated jaws that clamp two sides of the opened mouth of a bag closed. Spring loaded clamping devices, however, are usually limited in size and may not seal the entire length of the mouth of the bag. Further, the spring loaded clamping devices are not easily stackable or storeable and take up an inordinate amount of storage space in kitchen drawers designed to store utensils. The spring loaded clamping devices are also generally composed of multiple pieces which much be assembled adding to their expense.
In order to overcome the problems associated with spring loaded clamping devices, U.S. Patent Application Publication 2009/0211059 A1 filed by Byron et al. discloses a sealing device which includes a receiver portion and a sealing portion as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 therein. The sealing portion is removably retained within an engagement aperture provided in the receiver portion when the sealing portion is inserted into the receiver portion. At least one of the sealing portion and the receiver portion are formed of an semi-rigid material. In operation, the sealing portion is impressed into an opening in the receiver portion and moves into the engagement aperture with a portion of the bag next to the open mouth threaded between the sealing portion and the receiver portion. Essentially, it can be said that the sealing portion and the receiver portion mechanically clip or snap together and capture the mouth of the bag between them as the sealing portion is snapped into the receiver portion.
While the device illustrated in Byron et al. may provide some advantages over the spring loaded clamping devices discussed above, the device of Bryon et al. also suffers from certain disadvantages and deficiencies. Primary among such disadvantages and deficiencies is the necessity of applying a uniform force across the sealing portion in order to clip and snap the sealing portion into the receiving portion. The application of such force can be difficult for individuals lacking in manual dexterity. Elderly individuals or those suffering from arthritis, for example, may have difficulty fitting and snapping the sealing portion into the receiving portion. Further, since the device relies on the flexibility of at least of the sealing portion and receiving portion to enable the click fit by gripping surfaces described in Byron et al., the continued use of the device over time may lead to a situation in which the seal becomes less air tight due to the stretching or deformation of the receiving portion after multiple uses.
Accordingly, in view of the above, it would be desirable to provide a method and apparatus for sealing a bag opening that can be applied to a variety of bags in a convenient and easily attachable way such that an effective seal of the bag opening is maintained. Further, it would be desirable to provide a method and apparatus for sealing a bag opening in which the sealing device would not degrade in usefulness over time. It would still further be desirable to provide an apparatus for sealing a bag opening that is simple in design and inexpensive to produce.

Method and apparatus for sealing a bag opening


An apparatus for use with aircraft to detect the position of the aircraft relative to the fuselage in order to achieve improved safety and flight conditions. The apparatus includes a signaling device such as a laser and a sensor of any suitable configuration. The device and the sensor are mounted on the wing or fuselage, respectively.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention is directed to aircraft sensing devices, in general, and to devices for sensing the position of the wing of an aircraft relative to the fuselage thereof, in particular.
2. Prior Art
Airplanes are well-accepted vehicles in current science and technology. Current aircraft utilize a fuselage and at least one wing. The fuselage is usually an elongated, generally cylindrical body and the wings extend outwardly therefrom. The wings can be located at virtually any position along the axis of the fuselage. In addition, tail wings are, generally, provided adjacent the rearward end of the fuselage to provide stability.
The wings are, of course, a very important aspect of an airplane in providing the surface to which the lifting forces are applied in flight. However, the wings are exposed to many hidden hazards, some of which can be internal wing damage or metal fatigue. These problems, among others, can be discovered and even measured by observing and measuring the position of the wing relative to the fuselage or, in other words, measuring the degree of droop or sag that the wing displays relative to the fuselage. This measurement may be referred to as the "attitude" of the wing relative to the fuselage. Of course, the aircraft must be stationary on level ground and the ambient air temperature noted.
Likewise, in inclement weather, ice may form on the interior or exterior surfaces of the wing and incorporate excessive wing weight. This burdening effect on the wing manifests itself as a lower wing position.
On the other hand, when the aircraft is aloft, the wing position changes in the opposite direction, i.e. the wings bend upwards. By measuring this upward bend (or dihedral) relative to the fuselage and noting the air temperature, the weight effect of the fuselage and its payload can be determined irrespective of any weight calculations or computations. Of course, the airplane must be flying straight and level and in non-turbulent conditions.
To date, there is no known mechanism for measuring the position of the wing reactive to the fuselage of an airplane in flight.


Pd-based composite oxide containing at least one element selected from rare earth metals is used. Therefore, a composite oxide having the same amount of noble metal as in a conventional technique can be burned at a lower temperature. As a result, a purification catalyst for exhaust gas having superior purification properties in which deterioration of Pd dispersion by crystallization is prevented, and a production method therefor can be provided.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to a purification catalyst for exhaust gas, to a production method therefor, and to a purification catalyst device for exhaust gas, and specifically relates to a production technique for a purification catalyst for exhaust gas in which nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbon (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO) contained in exhaust gas emitted from an internal combustion engine (for example, in a vehicle) can be simultaneously and effectively reduced, thereby reducing the undesirable components of the exhaust gas.
2. Background Art
For purifying exhaust gas containing, for example, CO, HC, NO, and NO2, it is well known that noble metal elements (Pt, Rh, Pd, Ir) exhibit high performances. Therefore, it is preferable to employ the above-mentioned noble metal elements in the purification catalyst for exhaust gas. These noble metals are generally supported or mixed with Al2O3 which is a support having a high specific surface area, with additives such as La, Ce, or Nd. On the other hand, noble metals can be combined with various elements by making composite oxides, the composite oxides can exhibit various properties compared to the noble metal alone, and performances for purifying exhaust gas can be improved. Furthermore, it is known that a purification catalyst for exhaust gas having superior heat resistance can be obtained in mixed condition or solid-solution condition of Pd-based composite oxides and transition metal-based composite oxides.
As such a purification catalyst for exhaust gas, a heat-resistant catalyst in which a Pd-based composite oxide comprising at least one element selected from rare earth metals and alkali earth metals and a composite oxide comprising at least one element selected from transition metals are mutually dissolved or used in a mixture, is disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 10-277393. In this technique, since the purification catalyst for exhaust gas is composed of the Pd-based composite oxide, heat resistance can be improved based on stabilization of fine Pd particles. Furthermore, since sintering-proof property of the Pd-based composite oxide is obtained by mixing the Pd-based composite and transition metal-based composite oxide, heat resistance can be improved.
However, it is necessary to burn at more than 1000° C. to form the Pd-based composite oxide in the above-mentioned current technique. Therefore, crystallization proceeds and Pd dispersion is deteriorated, and as a result, superior purification property cannot be obtained. Therefore, a purification catalyst for exhaust gas having superior purification property in which deterioration of Pd dispersion by crystallization is prevented even if composite oxide having the same amount of noble metal as in a conventional technique is burned at a lower temperature, is required.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Purification catalyst for exhaust gas, production method therefor, and purification catalyst device for exhaust gas


A retainer includes: a connecting piece; one or more retaining parts provided at either end of the connecting piece and having a hole into which a terminal of an electrical component fits; an arm piece extending from near the hole; and a washer that is formed on the fore-end of the arm piece and is for fitting together with the hole over the terminal, wherein the connecting piece, the retaining part, the arm piece, and the washer are formed integrally of an insulating material having good expansion/contraction properties.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to retainers for retraining terminals on a high-pressure part of a lamp, and strobe devices using the retainers.
2. Description of Related Art
FIG. 7 is an oblique view of a strobe device 1 suitable for installation in cameras, and FIG. 6 is an exploded oblique view thereof. The strobe device 1 includes a case 2 made of a resin, a reflector 3 made of a metal, and a rod-shaped lamp 4. The case 2 has a front opening 21. The reflector 3 has a front opening 31 and fits into the case 2 through the opening 21 of the case 2. The lamp 4 is arranged inside the reflector 3. The lamp 4 has terminals 41 and 41a on opposite ends thereof, which project outwardly through holes 23, 33 and 33, 23, formed at opposite ends of the case 2 and the reflector 3.
The lamp 4 is fixed to the case 2 with a band-shaped retainer 5 that has good expansion/contraction properties and insulation performance. (See, for example, Japanese Unexamined Pat. App. Pub. No. 9-113969).
The retainer 5 has holes 53 and 53a, which are formed at opposite ends of an elongated connecting piece 51 and into which terminals 41 and 41a are fitted tightly. In order to fix the lamp 4 to the case 2 with the retainer 5, one hole 53 is fitted onto the terminal 41 on one end of the lamp 4, the connecting piece 51 is stretched along the outer rear face of the case 2, and the other hole 53a is fitted onto the terminal 41a on the other end of the lamp 4. The pulling force of the retainer 5 tending to return to its original shape presses the lamp 4 against the rear of the case 2, thus fastening the lamp 4 to the case 2. (See FIG. 7.) As shown in FIG. 8, conductor wires 6 are soldered onto the terminals 41 and 41a.
The holes 53 and 53a of the retainer 5 are fitted tightly onto the terminals 41 and 41a. The fore-end of the retainer 5 electrically insulate the solder 7 from the reflector 3, thus preventing electric leakage.
As shown in FIG. 8, however, a pulling force acts on both ends of the retainer 5 in a state in which the lamp 4 is fitted. As a result, the hole 53 of the retainer 5 is elongated in the stretching direction, producing a gap 50 between the hole 53 and the terminal 41 of the lamp 4.
Due to the just-noted gap 50, the retainer often loses the effects of electrical insulation and electric leakage prevention, leading to such problems as giving electrical shocks to users and causing flashing failures.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a terminal retainer free from such problems as giving electrical shocks to users and flashing failures.

Terminal retainer and strobe device using the retainer


This invention relates to an improved plant holder for use in a garden for supporting plants and vines as they grow and mature. The plant holder comprises a plurality of identical posts which may be driven into the ground by means of pointed ends. Each post has a plurality of hooks in pairs at different heights along the post. Further, between the posts rods are provided that clip into the hooks to lie in a horizontal plane at each of the different levels of the hooks. Since the hooks are paired on either side of the posts at different levels then a pair of rods may also be found at the corresponding levels. Each pair of rods is connected by C-clips which snap over the rods. A plant, such as a tomato plant, may be supported by this structure by driving the posts on either side of the plant, assembling the rods into the hooks on either sides of the plant stems, then applying the clips to secure the rods into position. Further, the clips are sufficiently spaced on the rods allowing a branch of the plant to be drawn through an opening in the clips for further support of the branches.

a) Field of Art
This invention relates to an improved plant holder for use in a garden for supporting plants and vines as they grow and mature.
b) Prior Art
Many garden variety plants, particularly those that bear fruits or vegetables, require support to maintain their produce off the ground as it grows and ripens, for example, tomato plants, beans, peas, cucumbers and other vegetables that grow on vines or weak stemmed plants. Many prior art devices have been developed to deal with this problem, each providing different structures with certain advantages and disadvantages. Examples of prior art devices are found in the following patents.
Canadian Patent No. 1,135,509 relates to a device for supporting tomato plants or the like, comprising a plurality of stakes which may be driven into the ground, and a series of disks fixed in a tiered arrangement on the stakes. Each disk has an opening to permit the plant to grow upwards through the disk to be supported therebelow by the disk.
Canadian Patent No. 967,750 describes a clip which may be used to attach a plant such as a tomato plant to a string suspended above the plant and thereby maintain it in an upright position.
Canadian Patent Application No. 2,123,975 relates to a bendable clip which may be fastened about a plant and over a post to maintain the plant in an upright position.
Canadian Patent Application No. 2,121,169 relates to a device for propping a plant by means of a combination of clips and an extension rod that fits onto the side of a pot.
Canadian Patent Application No. 2,096,865 discloses a tiered device comprising hoops or bowls and ball-like structures suspended on a rod to support a plant.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,276,996 relates to spiral structures which may be fixed in the ground and to clips adapted to hold a plant to the spiral structure as the plant grows.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,750,293 discloses a rod and flexible band-like clip member.
U.S. Design Pat. No. 261,853 discloses a rod having an arrow-shaped bottom with C-clips on its sides for clamping a plant to the rod.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,341,593 discloses a stake to support a large tomato plant with a shading mechanism.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,881,342 discloses hook and eye mechanisms which may be used to clip plants to a supporting rod.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,440,834 discloses a plant supporting ring and fastening device for use with a trilobal rod.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,860,489 discloses a spiral ring device clipped to a plurality of rods to support a vegetable plant such as a tomato plant.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,841,670 discloses a combination of supporting rings and a plurality of rods comprising a structure to support a tomato plant.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,249,390 discloses a trellis apparatus of identical L-shaped pieces which connect together to form a supporting structure.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,250,666 discloses a tiered series of trays or shelves on a central support for planting.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,793,771 discloses a pair of inverted U-shaped members with a mesh which may be used to support adjoining plants in a garden.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,519,162 discloses a ring structure to fit into a channel of a vertical rod for supporting plants within the rings.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,677,788 discloses a tomato plant support comprising a rod having a series of rings fitted about.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,357,710 discloses a combination of a trellis and a plant watering system.


An improved machine (1) for making filter bags (2) containing a product for infusion, with a pick-up tag (3) connected to the top (12) of the filter bag (2) by an intermediate thread (5), comprises a wheel (6) which rotates with a stepping motion about its own axis of rotation (16) and is equipped with grippers (7) which are brought into contact with a series of operating stations, comprising at least one station (9) for folding a tubular semi-finished product (20) containing the product for infusion, and at least one station (15) for knotting the thread (5). The machine (1) has thread (5) feed means (33, 34, 35) which operate on the thread (5) fed between consecutive pairs of the grippers (7) along the edge of the wheel (6) so as to prevent it from sliding backwards. The thread (5) knotting station (15) is equipped with needles (45) which have a first and second eye (51, 52) positioned at different distances from the point. The needles (45) are moved in such a way as to pick up the thread (5) with the second eye (52), forming a loop (62) in which the thread (5) is associated with the first eye (51), interceptor elements (54) being moved in time with the needles (45) so that they passe through the first eye (51), pushing a section of thread (5) through the loop (62). The invention also relates to a method for knotting the thread (5).

The present invention relates to machines for the automatic production of filter bags containing a product for infusion, such as tea, camomile or other similar products, the filter bags being made of filter paper, folded and closed with a knotted thread which connects them to the pick-up tag.
In the packaging of products for infusion, the technique in which folded bags are formed and closed by knotting the thread connecting the filter bag and the pick-up tag is currently used to obtain top-quality bags of product, distinguished from similar bags by the fact that they prevent contact between the infusion and elements of the packaging which may, even to a limited degree, damage the health or (particularly important from a marketing viewpoint) modify the organoleptic characteristics of the infusion. Such effects are encountered, for example, in bags obtained by gluing sheets of filter paper with a hot-melt glue or even in bags in which the top is closed and the thread secured by metal staples.
In particular, the present invention relates to an improved machine of the type comprising a wheel which rotates with a stepping motion about its own axis of rotation and is equipped with grippers which, as the wheel rotates, are brought into contact with a series of operating stations around the wheel, which comprise, in particular, a station for folding a tubular semi-finished product consisting of filter paper containing the dosed product, and at least one station for knotting the thread so as to close the top of the bag and attach the pick-up tag to it. Such a machine is described in the application for an Italian patent BO95A000148.
A machine of the above-mentioned type fulfils the aim of allowing high-quality bags to be obtained. However, it can be significantly improved in terms of increasing its productivity.
The aim of the present invention is, therefore, to increase the production capacity of the machine through a corresponding increase in its operating speed.
Such an aim can be achieved by ensuring that the thread fed around the wheel, between the wheel and the operating stations, is not allowed to slide in an uncontrolled manner inside the machine, sliding which must be avoided, above all, during folding of the tubular section, when the thread is tensioned so as to circumscribe the filter bag being formed.
In accordance with the present invention, said aim is fulfilled by an improved machine comprising thread feed means which operate on the thread fed between pairs of grippers positioned one after another along the edge of the wheel.
If the machine, in accordance within a preferred embodiment comprises a knotting station equipped with a knotting device that has needles for knotting the thread to the tag and to the top of the filter bag, the needles being brought into contact with tag and bag-top stops and with respective mobile needle interceptor elements, the same aim can also be achieved by creating, in the knotting stations, between the needle, thread and interceptor elements, reciprocal connection conditions predetermined by precise geometric constraints which allow the obtainment of conditions which can be repeated with great precision, even when the machine is operating at high speed.
In accordance with the invention, the operating speed is increased by an improved machine in which the knotting device is equipped with at least one needle having a first and a second eye located at different distances from the point. Said needle, or needles being moved in such a way as to pick up the thread with the second eye, forming a loop in which the thread is associated with the first eye, an interceptor element being moved in time with the needle so that it passes through the first eye, pushing a section of thread through the above-mentioned loop.
In accordance with the invention, the above-mentioned aim is also achieved using a method for knotting the thread to the tag and to the top of the bag.
The technical features of the present invention, in accordance with the above-mentioned aims, are set out in the claims herein and the advantages more clearly illustrated in the detailed description which follows, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate a preferred embodiment without limiting the scope of application, and in which:
FIG. 1 is an assembly view of the improved machine according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a partial, scaled up view of the machine in FIG. 1, with some parts cut away to better illustrate others;
FIG. 2a illustrates a detail from FIG. 2;
FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 are schematic illustrations of a characteristic succession of operating stages of the machine according to the present invention;
FIGS. 6, 7 and 7a are a perspective assembly view, an elevation view and a scaled up detail of a filter bag made in the machine disclosed;
FIGS. 8, 9 and 9a are scaled up details of the machine, showing parts of the folding station in two elevation views (FIGS. 8 and 9) and a view from direction k in FIG. 9;
FIG. 10 is a scaled up detail view of the machine showing parts of the knotting station;
FIGS. 11 and 11A to 11M are detail views showing a succession of operating configurations of parts of the knotting station;
FIG. 12 is a plan view from below of an alternative embodiment of a detail of the invention;
FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of the detail illustrated in FIG. 12.

Machine for attaching a tag to an infusion bag using an intermediate knotted thread

I.M.A. Industria Macchine Automatiche S.p.A.


A one time programmable (OTP) electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM) transistor (100) having an increased breakdown voltage (BVdss) is disclosed. The increased breakdown voltage reduces the probability that the OTP EPROM (100) will breakdown during a programming operation by maintaining a breakdown voltage above a programming voltage. The breakdown voltage is, at least partially, increased by forming a p-doped region (140) within a semiconductor substrate (102), and forming a drain region (166) of the OTP EPROM (100) within the p-doped region (140).

One time programmable (OTP) electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM) can be an effective, low cost mechanism for providing non-volatile memory in a variety of computer related applications, such as in small handheld digital devices like cellular telephones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), etc.
A relatively high voltage is, however, generally required to perform a programming operation in OTP EPROM. In particular, the high programming voltage has to be applied to the drain of a transistor device of the OTP EPROM. Such a high voltage may, however, exceed certain thresholds in some applications. In advanced complimentary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) applications, for example, the high programming voltage may exceed a breakdown voltage (BVdss) of the transistor device, which can induce a runaway current in the CMOS transistor based OTP EPROM, causing it to perform in an undesirable manner.
Accordingly, it would be desirable to have OTP EPROM with an increased drain junction breakdown voltage so that the OTP EPROM can be utilized (e.g., programmed) in advanced CMOS applications without experiencing a runaway current.

One time programmable EPROM for advanced CMOS technology


A method for producing a semiconductor module includes providing an adhesion carrier and a plurality of circuit carriers. The adhesion carrier has an adhesive upper side and a lower side opposite the adhesive upper side. Each of the circuit carriers includes a ceramic carrier and an upper conductor layer applied to the ceramic carrier, and a circuit carrier lower side. By placing the circuit carriers onto the adhesive upper side, the circuit carrier lower side of the circuit carriers contacts and adheres to the adhesive upper side, so that a quasi-panel is formed, in which the circuit carriers are processed while preserving the quasi-panel and can then be removed from the adhesive upper side.

In the processing of circuit carriers, such as are used for example in semiconductor modules, positioning inaccuracies, which accumulate in the course of the processing, respectively occur during different process steps. Owing to this, necessary safety distances, for example required in order to avoid sparking, need to be dimensioned on a corresponding scale. As a result, this means that the circuit carriers must be configured with a correspondingly large area because of these positioning inaccuracies, in order to avoid incorrect positioning, short circuits or sparking. Furthermore, these positioning inaccuracies limit the achievable integration density of the components installed on the circuit carrier.

Method for producing a semiconductor module by using an adhesion carrier


Systems and methods of the present disclosure generally relate to real time characterization of material recovered from a subterranean formation, based on magnetic properties. A system comprises an enclosure comprising electromagnetic shielding; an optically pumped magnetometer (OPM) disposed within the enclosure; and a sample conduit extending into the enclosure, the sample conduit configured to receive a subterranean material recovered from a wellbore, the OPM configured to detect a magnetic response of the subterranean material.

During drilling of a wellbore into a subterranean formation, drilling fluid may be circulated from the surface, into the wellbore, and back up to the surface. The drilling fluid serves several functions, such as transporting drill cuttings to the surface for separation from the drilling fluid. Additionally, other solids present in the wellbore may be circulated to the surface. Determining content of the drill cuttings recovered from the wellbore may be useful for managing an efficient drilling operation.

Real time magnetic properties of drill cuttings, drilling fluids, and soils


A digital audio signal processing apparatus is provided having a predictive error generator for generating predictive error data by processing input digital data to acquire a plurality of different frequency characteristics. A selector selects one of the plural predictive error data. A requantizer requantizes the selected predictive error data. A corrector processes with a predetermined frequency characteristic, the requantization error induced during the operation of the requantizer, thereby correcting the requantization error caused in the requantizer. A frequency characteristic control selects at least two of the predictive error data obtained with the plural frequency characteristics, then calculates the selected predictive error data and controls the frequency characteristic in the corrector in accordance with the result of such calculation. In this apparatus, the ratio or the difference between at least two predictive error data obtained with a plurality of frequency characteristics is calculated and then is compared with a predetermined reference value. The frequency characteristic in the corrector is controlled in conformity with the numerical relation between the calculated value and the reference value. Therefore, two or more frequency characteristics in the corrector are selectively rendered conformable with one frequency characteristic in the predictive error generator, hence achieving an enhanced effect of further improving the signal-to-noise ratio.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an apparatus for processing a digital audio signal and, more particularly, to an apparatus adapted for use in recording, reproducing and transmitting an audio signal or the like with a high quality.
2. Description of the Prior Art
There is proposed a method of compressing digital audio data by the use of a technique termed adaptive predictive coding (APC). Such method is capable of recording audio data at a high density without deteriorating the signal-to-noise ratio or articulation thereof. And, a conventional signal processing apparatus contrived to perform such a recording operation is disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,797,902 or U.S. Pat. No. 5,070,515 by the present applicant.
The apparatus cited above fundamentally comprises a predictive error generating circuit for dividing input digital data into blocks each composed of a predetermined number of words along the time base, then processing the data of each block to acquire a plurality of different frequency characteristics, and generating predictive error data thereof; a selecting circuit for selecting, out of such predictive error data obtained from the predictive error generating circuit, the data having the smallest one of maximum absolute values; a bit compressing circuit for compressing the bits of the selected predictive error data; a correcting circuit for processing the quantization error caused at the time of bit compression with predetermined frequency characteristics and feeding the processed error back to the bit compressing circuit; and a frequency characteristic control circuit for controlling the frequency characteristic of the correcting circuit in such a manner as to conform the same with the frequency characteristic optimal for obtaining the predictive error data having the smallest one of the maximum absolute values at the respective frequency characteristics.
For example, one block is composed of 28 words each consisting of 16-bit input audio digital data. The data in each block are processed with four different frequency characteristics, and the maximum predictive errors (absolute values) obtained by the processes with the respective characteristics are detected. And, the frequency characteristic relative to generation of the smallest value out of such four maximum predictive errors is selected as a characteristic for optimizing the signal-to-noise ratio.
The bits of the predictive error data produced as a result of the process with such selected frequency characteristic are compressed (requantized) by selection of, for example, 4 significant bits out of 16 bits. The requantization error resulting from the bit compression is processed with the same frequency characteristic as that used in the predictive error generating circuit and then is fed back to the bit compressing circuit, whereby the spectrum of the requantization noise is turned into white noise differently from the spectrum of the input audio data.
By adjusting the frequency characteristic of the requantization error thus fed back, it is rendered possible to distribute much of the requantization noise in a frequency band where the energy level of the audio data is high, so that the signal-to-requantization noise ratio (SNR) can be improved by the auditory masking effect.
The process of improving the auditory SNR by shaping the spectrum of the requantization noise in a manner to conform with the spectrum of the input audio data is the fundamental principle of the cited known apparatus. In strictly optimizing the relationship of mutual correspondence between the two spectra, precise analysis of the input signal becomes necessary to consequently require a huge amount of calculations and complicated noise shaping.
Therefore, the conventional apparatus is so contrived that, under an assumed condition where the frequency characteristic in the process of generating a predictive error corresponds substantially to the spectrum of the input signal, the frequency characteristic of the requantization error correcting circuit is set to have a relationship of 1:1 to the frequency characteristic of the predictive error generating circuit.
In such a constitution, however, there arises a problem that when the input audio signal is an intense attack sound of a piano or the like, the signal-to-noise ratio may be deteriorated on the contrary to consequently cause a noise.

Apparatus for processing digital audio signal


The present invention describes methods for improving the appearance of skin, particularly, treating, ameliorating, preventing, delaying, and/or improving one or more signs of aging, by topically applying compositions comprising an extract of Medemia nobilis.

Consumers constantly seek to improve the appearance of their skin, and in particular seek to improve the appearance of skin by reducing signs of skin aging, such as wrinkles and the like. Cosmetic products that enhance the appearance of skin are increasingly in demand as consumers increasingly seek to mitigate or forestall signs of aging, in particular of wrinkles and/or fine lines. In particular, there is an interest in botanical and other naturally derived actives for cosmetic and therapeutic use on the skin.
It is therefore an object of the invention to provide new compositions and methods for combating signs of skin aging using botanical extracts. It is a further object of the invention to provide such compositions and methods to improve the overall appearance of skin, including treating, remediating, reversing, slowing, and/or preventing signs of aging, including signs of aging associated with degradation of collagen and/or elastin matrices and to enhance the regulation of new skin cells.


The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method, apparatus and device for generating a microservice, and a storage medium. The method includes: determining a service set of a microservice according to a first user requirement; determining a deployment mode of devices controlled by the microservice; determining parameter information of the microservice according to a second user requirement; and generating the microservice according to the service set, the deployment mode and the running parameters.

Microservice is a software architecture that develops a single application using a set of small services each running in its own process and communicates by a lightweight mechanism. These services are constructed based on service capacity, and can be independently deployed with an automatic deployment mechanism. These services are implemented with different programming languages, stored by using different data storage technologies, and kept with the minimum centralized management.
A single application generally integrates all services together to realize coupling among the services, while microservice applications refer to an application consisting of a series of small services. However, with expanded services, the single application will confront problems such as low running speed, large volume, tight coupling, difficulty in upgrading and downgrading, complex operation and maintenance, and the like, while an application consisting of a large number of microservices will confront problems such as high deployment cost and high operation and maintenance cost.

Method, apparatus and device for generating microservice, and storage medium


An actuator for use in a surgical instrument, the actuator includes an upper portion configured to be actuated by one or more fingers, wherein the upper portion has an upper distal portion for operating the surgical instrument in a first mode of operation, and an upper proximal portion for operating the surgical instrument in a second mode of operation, and wherein the upper distal portion and the upper proximal portion have different respective tactile configurations for informing the user of the first and second modes of operation, respectively.

In endoscopic vessel harvesting (EVH) surgical procedures, a long slender surgical instrument may be advanced into a tunnel next to the saphenous vein in a patient's leg, and along the saphenous vein to dissect the vessel away from adjacent tissue, and to sever side-branch vessels along the course of the vessel to be harvested. Similar technique may also be used to harvest a radial artery or other target structure.
A vessel harvesting device often includes a surgical tool at the distal end of the harvesting device, and a handle with a control for operating the surgical tool. Controls typically have a symmetrical configuration and are unintuitive.


A method for detecting zonal operator presence includes receiving a sensor output from a sensor. The sensor may be located on an agricultural machine and the sensor output indicates an operating state of the agricultural machine. Once the sensor output has been received, the operating state of the agricultural machine is determined based on the sensor output. The operating state includes an operator being located within a work area of the agricultural machine. The work area is divided into a plurality of zones. An operating parameter is adjusted based on the operating state.

1. Field of Invention
This invention relates to operation of an agricultural machine, and more particularly to using a zonal operator presence detector to determine if an operator is located within a work area of the agricultural machine.
2. Description of Related Art
Various vehicles and implements are used within an agricultural environment. The vehicles and implements may include various areas an operator or plurality of operators may be located. In addition, the vehicles and implements may include guidance systems to assist an operator in reaching a desired location and/or following a desired path.


A vehicle having moving funnels separated from stationary funnels that suppresses any decrease in intake efficiency. The moving funnels are arranged on an intake side of the stationary funnels to lead air to an engine. A funnel holding section holds the moving funnels and includes opened holes. The moving funnels are moved straight between separated positions in which openings of the moving funnels are separated from openings of the stationary funnels, and abutment positions in which the openings of the moving funnels abut against the openings of the stationary funnels. The opened holes pass air on an upstream side to a downstream side.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a vehicle, and more particularly to a vehicle having a funnel through which air is led to an intake port of an engine.
2. Description of Related Art
An intake device provided with an intake inertial pipe (funnel), through which air is led to an intake port of an engine, is known. JP-UM-A-56-2023, for example, discloses an intake device for internal combustion engines, comprising an intake inertial pipe including three stationary pipes (stationary funnels) fixed to an intake muffler (case section), three intermediate extension pipes (moving funnels), which are movable to slide on outer peripheries of the three stationary pipes, and three extension pipes (moving funnels), which are movable to slide on outer peripheries of the three intermediate extension pipes, a single flat-plate shaped flange section (funnel holding section), to which the three intermediate extension pipes are fixed, a single flat-plate shaped and horn-shaped suction section (funnel holding section), to which the three extension pipes are fixed, and a screw shaft (ball screw) for movement of the flat-plate shaped flange section and the flat-plate shaped and horn-shaped suction section. As the flat-plate shaped flange section and the flat-plate shaped and horn-shaped suction section of the intake inertial pipe are moved upon rotation of the screw shaft, the three intermediate extension pipes and the three extension pipes are slid on straight extensions of the three stationary pipes whereby the intake inertial pipe is changed in length. The three stationary pipes and the three intermediate extension pipes are structured not to separate from each other, and the three intermediate extension pipes and the three extension pipes are structured not to separate from each other.
In JP-UM-A-56-2023, however, the flange section (funnel holding section), to which the three intermediate extension pipes (moving funnels) are fixed, and the horn-shaped suction section (funnel holding section), to which the three extension pipes (moving funnels) are fixed, are in the form of a flat plate, so that flow of air in the intake muffler (case section) is liable to be obstructed. Therefore, when the flange section and the horn-shaped suction section, which are in the form of a flat plate and to which the moving funnels are fixed, are provided in an intake device constructed such that the moving funnels are separated from the stationary funnels, flow of air is obstructed by the flat-plate shaped flange section and the flat-plate shaped and horn-shaped suction section when air upstream of the moving funnels passes outside the moving funnels to the stationary funnels downstream of the moving funnels, in a state in which the moving funnels are separated from the stationary funnels, so that it is difficult to feed air smoothly to the stationary funnels. Consequently, there is a problem in that intake efficiency is decreased when the moving funnels are separated from the stationary funnels.

Engine air intake arrangement for a vehicle


An electric power distribution and control apparatus has a stack of conductive plates each having a plurality of spaced contact pads and conductive traces connecting the contact pads to others of the pads. At least one of the plates has contact terminals for connection to electrical components for supply of electrical current. An array of contact pins pass through holes in the plates at a respective one of the contact pads such that the array of pins provides connection between selected contact pads of different selected conductive plates. An electronic system for connection to a communication bus is added to the above known system by providing a main circuit board having the electronic components thereon, a mapping circuit board having a plurality of contact pads thereon arranged for connection to respective ones of the array of pins and a header having a male pin array and a female socket array connecting the main printed circuit board and the mapping circuit board.

In U.S. Pat. No. 6,496,377 (Happ) et al issued Dec. 17, 2002 and in a number of related patents all assigned to Cooper Technologies Company, is disclosed an arrangement for distribution of electrical power to components of a machine such as a vehicle.
This arrangement has led to a commercially significant product manufactured by Bussman Cooper which provides electrical connections and support for terminals for connection to fuses, relays and other components of the machine which receive electrical current from sources of supply attached to the device.
The arrangement is manufactured from conductive plates which are arranged side by side in a generally parallel overlying array with each plate having an array of contact pads thereon. The plates are separated each from the next by an insulation arrangement and the plates are connected by pins which extend at right angles to the plates through holes in the plates at the contact pads. The contact pads of each plate are connected by contact traces which are applied onto the plates. This arrangement allows economic manufacture of different constructions of connections for different machines. It will be appreciated that high production runs for example used on automobiles can carry the cost of tooling for manufacture of a power distribution apparatus which is tailored to the specific vehicle concerned. However other machines which do not have a such a high production run but require the power supply to be tailored to the particular requirements of the machine, require a power distribution apparatus which is manufactured in smaller runs. The device of the above patent has been found to be particularly effective in this regard and is widely used in the field for which it is primarily designed.
The patent also mentions in column 8 at line 46 that the apparatus may be directly attached to a printed circuit board of conventional design. This allows the apparatus to be interfaced with a range of electronic components and all mounted in the single housing.
However up till now no commercial arrangement has been generated of this device including a printed circuit board.
The provision of such a printed circuit board would enable the attachment of the system to the communication bus which is now commonly used in vehicles for more effective control of electronics within the vehicle. However it is well known that such electronic systems cannot economically control components with a high current draw.
Even though there is therefore a high demand and need for a product of this type, up till now no commercial success has been obtained.

Electric power distribution and control apparatus


A user terminal includes processor configured to execute processes of: receiving, from a base station, configuration information indicating whether the user terminal shall transmit a device-to-device (D2D) synchronization signal used for a D2D proximity service; transmitting the D2D synchronization signal in response to the received configuration information being first configuration information explicitly indicating the user terminal shall transmit the D2D synchronization signal; and prohibiting transmission of the D2D synchronization signal in response to the received configuration information being second configuration information explicitly indicating the user terminal shall not transmit the D2D synchronization signal.

In 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) which is a project aiming to standardize a mobile communication system, the introduction of a Device-to-Device (D2D) proximity service is discussed as a new function on and after Release 12 (see Non Patent Document 1).
The D2D proximity service (D2D ProSe) is a service enabling direct device-to-device communication within a synchronization cluster including a plurality of synchronized user terminals. The D2D proximity service includes a discovery procedure (Discovery) in which a proximal terminal is discovered and D2D communication (Communication) that is direct device-to-device communication.
Further, a discovery procedure in which a user terminal that exists in a certain cell (serving cell) discovers a proximal terminal that exists in other cell (neighbor cell) is called an inter-cell discovery procedure (Inter-Cell Discovery). Further, D2D communication in which a user terminal that exists in a serving cell performs communication with a proximal terminal that exists in a neighbor cell is called an inter-cell D2D communication (Inter-Cell Communication).


A piezoresistive pressure and/or strain sensor micro-machined primarily from plastic and/or glass. In one illustrative embodiment, the piezoresistive pressure sensor is formed on a polymer substrate. A first selectively implanted region is provided in the polymer substrate to create a piezoresistive region in the polymer substrate. A second selectively implanted region is then provided in at least part of the first selectively implanted region to modulate the electrical conductivity of the first selectively implanted region. The illustrative sensor may be selectively implanted with, for example, nitrogen to create the piezoresistive region, and boron to modulate the electrical conductivity of the piezoresistive region. Phosphorus or any other suitable material may also be used to modulate the electrical conductivity of the piezoresistive region, as desired. The piezoresistive pressure/strain sensor may be formed from a single substrate, or two or more substrates, and the resulting pressure/strain sensor may be mounted in a plastic package, if desired.

There is a need for new low cost sensors, such as strain and/or pressure sensors. One application for such low cost sensors is in the disposable market, such as in the biomedical domain where single use devices are often used. Many other markets and applications also exist. In the past decade, there has been progress made in the development of polymer thin and thick films for use as flexible electronics and different sensing applications. For example, piezoresistive metal foils have been deposited on flexible polymer substrates to form strain gauges. Some drawbacks of these types of sensors include the de-lamination of the metal film over time, the relatively low resistivity of the piezoresistive metal, thereby requiring relatively large sensors, and rather low gauge factors for the metal foils.
Silicon Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology has also been used in manufacturing strain and pressure sensors, in some cases with the advantage of integrating the sensor and the supporting electronic circuits for signal conditioning and processing on the same chip. In spite of the well-established silicon MEMS technology, the cost of these devices cannot usually be reduced below certain limits, often due in part to the cost of the single crystal silicon substrate. Thus, there remains a need for new low cost sensors based on cheaper substrates.

Micro-machined pressure sensor with polymer diaphragm


A sports swing training apparatus (10) for temporarily immobilizing a users back foot except for pivotal movement; wherein, the apparatus (10) comprises a base member (20) rotatably secured to a platform member (40); and, releasable securing means (50) operatively and detachably securing the user foot to said platform member (40) for teaching the user the proper swing technique for baseball, softball and golf.

This invention was the subject matter of Document Disclosure Program Registration No. 287771 which was filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office on Jul. 29, 1991.
As can be seen by reference to the following U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,757,995; 4,516,772; 4,194,735; and 5,037,094; the prior art is replete with myriad and diverse baseball hitting instructional devices which concentrate on the proper placement and stride elements incorporated into the mechanics of hitting a ball.
While all of the aforementioned prior art constructions are more than adequate for the basic purpose and function for which they have been specifically designed, these patented constructions have relied heavily on the need to provide some sort of mechanical immobilization feature which physically limits the stride length of the batters leading foot in the act of swinging the bat.
As most coaches are aware the proper mechanics of swinging a bat at a ball involve limiting the movement of the back foot of the batter to pivotal movement only as the batters lead foot moves freely in the direction of the ball.
As a consequence of the foregoing situation, there has existed a longstanding need among batting instructors for a new type of instructional apparatus that will temporarily immobilize a batters trailing foot from lateral displacement while also allowing the batters trailing foot to pivot in place, as the batter follows through with their swing; and, the provision of such a construction is a stated objective of the present invention.
Briefly stated, the baseball swing training apparatus that forms the basis of the present invention comprises in general a base unit, an anchor unit; a pivot unit; a platform unit; and, a releasable foot engaging unit.
The anchor unit is employed to secure the base unit at a desired location within the batters box. The pivot unit forms the operative engagement between the base unit and the platform unit; and, the releasable foot engaging unit provides a break-away engagement between the batters rear foot and the platform unit.
As will be explained in greater detail further on in the specification, the releasable foot engaging unit is intended to maintain the batters rear foot in the proper position during the act of swinging the bat and also to allow the batters foot and the attached platform unit to rotate in unison when the batter pivots their rear foot in accordance with the proper swing technique.
However, the releasable nature of the foot engaging unit also insures that should the batter employ an improper technique during their swing, that their trailing foot will be readily detached from contact with the platform unit to prevent injury to the batter such as a sprained ankle or the like.


A liquid crystal display includes a signal control unit which supplies an image signal; a voltage supply unit which outputs a first reference voltage when the image signal is not at a highest grayscale level and outputs a second reference voltage having a voltage level higher than that of the first reference voltage when the image signal is at the highest grayscale voltage level; a grayscale voltage generating unit which receives the first reference voltage or the second reference voltage and generates a plurality of positive- and negative-polarity grayscale voltages whose voltage levels sequentially decrease; and a data driving unit which receives the image signal, the plurality of positive- and negative-polarity grayscale voltages and applies an image data voltage corresponding to the image signal to a pixel.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a liquid crystal display and a driving method thereof, and in particular, a liquid crystal display and a driving method thereof having an improved display quality.
2. Description of the Related Art
In general, liquid crystal displays include a first display panel having pixel electrodes, a second display panel having a common electrode, a liquid crystal having dielectric anisotropy injected between the first display panel and the second display panel, a data driving unit which outputs data signals and a grayscale voltage generating unit which generates a plurality of grayscale voltages.
The grayscale voltage generating unit generates the plurality of grayscale voltages by dividing a reference voltage having a predetermined voltage level, and supplies the generated plurality of grayscale voltages to the data driving unit. The data driving unit either applies the plurality of grayscale voltages supplied from the grayscale voltage generating unit to a plurality of pixels, or may divide the plurality of grayscale voltages and then apply the divided grayscale voltages to the pixels.
Each grayscale voltage of the plurality of grayscale voltages is constant and a voltage difference between given grayscale levels is therefore constant as well. As a result, when a dark screen transitions to a bright screen or when a bright screen transitions to a dark screen, a luminance difference according to the voltage difference between the given grayscale levels is constant, making it difficult to increase the luminance difference. As a result, it is difficult to improve a display quality in the liquid crystal display.

Liquid crystal display and driving method thereof


A gas is detected using a MEMS gas sensor. The electrical power to a heater in the gas sensor is changed between a low level, a high level suitable for detection of detection target gas, and a 0 level, and, therefore, poisonous gas is evaporated or oxidized at the low level, and the detection target gas is detected at the high level.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to detection of a gas using a MEMS gas sensor, and particularly relates to prevention of poisoning by organic solvent, silicone vapor, or the like.
2. Description of Related Art
It is known that silicone vapor poisons a gas sensor. Known countermeasures against this problem include a technique for removing poisonous gas using a filter made of activated carbon or the like (Patent Document 1: JP 3087982) and a technique for causing poisonous gas to decompose on a surface portion of a gas sensor (Patent Document 2: JP 4401445). Furthermore, the present inventor found that, in the case of a MEMS gas sensor, organic solvent such as ethanol also acts as poisonous gas.
Although a filter is effective for the prevention of poisoning, when the filter is exposed to a high concentration of poisonous gas for a long period of time, the poisonous gas passes through the filter and reaches inside the gas sensor.

Gas detection apparatus and gas detection method


A fuel system of a fuel injected engine includes a separate priming actuating fluid reservoir connected to an actuating fluid manifold and a high pressure pump for maintaining the volume of oil at the manifold and pump during periods when the engine is not in operation.

In the construction of diesel engines, particularly diesel engines of earthworking machines, space is severely limited for locating and positioning various components of the engine and components associated with the engine. It has also been a problem to maintain actuating fluid lines which power the fuel injectors filled to capacity during periods when the engine is shut down for an extended period and/or during cold weather conditions. During such times, actuating fluid occasionally drains out of the system and/or the volume of actuating fluid decreases in response to cooling thereof. This reduction in the volume of actuating fluid can result in the introduction of air into the system, leading to an undesirable increase in cranking times during cold-weather starts. In order to overcome this problem, actuating fluid must be supplied to the system so that sufficient pressure can be developed to inject fuel into the combustion chambers and start the engine.
Glassey, U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,083, assigned to the assignee of the instant application, discloses a hydraulically actuated fuel injection system including a high pressure actuating fluid pump for developing high pressure actuating fluid for fuel injectors and a priming reservoir arranged in fluid communication between a sump and an inlet of the pump. The priming reservoir primes and thereby facilitates rapid pressurization of the high pressure pump during engine start-up so that long cranking times are avoided. In addition, means are provided for automatically making up or replenishing voids in manifolds downstream of the pump due to cooling and contraction of actuating fluid and/or precipitation of entrained air from the actuating fluid. Such means comprises an actuating fluid siphon passage having a check valve therein which bypasses the inlet of the high pressure pump and is connected directly between the priming reservoir and the manifolds.
While the fuel injection system disclosed in the above-identified Glassey '083 patent is effective to limit cranking times, it is necessary that the lowest level of the actuating fluid in the reservoir be higher than the pump inlet. In installations where sufficient space above the pump mounting location is not available or in a situation where the pump mounting location is at a low elevation compared to the engine head and injectors, the system disclosed in Glassey '083 patent may not be suitable.
The present invention is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems as set forth above.

Fuel system having priming actuating fluid reservoir


A conveying device having a drive motor with motor shaft, a motor housing, and a load-receiving support stand, where to improve the conveying device in terms of simplified assembly and ease of maintenance, the motor housing is configured as part of the load-receiving support stand.

Such a conveying device is known from WO 2006/087088. The known conveying device is part of a transport system for container handling machines, particularly for bottle fillers. The transport system contains drivable inlet and outlet stars positioned on columnar support housings. The support housings are given a substantially tubular shape and accommodate, for instance, the drive motor for the conveying device together with its housing. The drive motor must be correctly adjusted at its predetermined place inside the outer support housing.


Methods for generating comparison shopping data are provided. One example method includes receiving a request for a desired item and generating an item table for the desired item. The item table is assembled from current on-line data that includes e-commerce purchasing information. Once the item table is assembled, the item table is displayed for the requested item such that the displayed information can inform an on-line buyer of the best current purchasing alternatives for the requested item. In one aspect of this method, the desired item can be selected form a data base of classified advertising. Once the classified advertising item is selected, the item table is generated and displayed along with the selected classified advertising item. In one example, the item table can include merchant name information, price information, availability information, new and used information, tax and shipping information, prior purchaser ratings, and total cost information. The displayed information will therefore provide an on-line purchaser with a powerful array of information to enable the making of an intelligent on-line purchasing decision.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to computer systems, and more particularly to methods for facilitating informed Internet commerce transactions.
2. Description of the Related Art
As a result of the Internet's popularity and the recent mechanisms for ensuring secure transactions of confidential data, merchants are increasingly turning to the Internet to reach a world-wide customer base. On the same token, consumers are also increasingly turning to the Internet to research and purchase all types of goods and services.
Typically, merchants set up their own web sites that are specifically designed to market their particular goods or services. Some web sites even allow consumers to comparison shop particular goods or services. Comparison shopping, however, is limited to new merchandise or services. This allows one merchant to competitively market its merchandise against merchandise of like kind.
Another type of Internet commerce is in the form of classified advertising. To facilitate this type of classified advertising, web sites are designed to allow users to list their goods or services, and users that may be interested in purchasing the goods or services can contact the listing party directly, typically by way of e-mail. This type of classified advertising is limited to used merchandise or services.
In view of the foregoing, there is a need for more comprehensive and informative web-based comparison shopping methods, which use data of both new and used goods, and services. There is also a need for informative comparison shopping methods that enable users to quickly generate comparison price lists of on-line merchants, off-line merchants, and private party classified ad sellers.

Methods and computer-readable media for processing web-based new and used good comparison shopping