Described herein are systems and methods for extracting image features from magnetic resonance imaging scans. These methods and systems are useful for both determining cancer lesion severity and disease prognosis. In particular, methods and systems are provided herein for extracting and analyzing imaging features that are correlated with breast cancer subtype and prognosis.

Breast cancer is a leading cancer diagnosis among women, with over 230,000 new cases a year in the United States. Breast cancer comprises a diverse collection of diseases with varying histologic subtypes, clinical presentations, and treatment responses. Gene expression profiling has been used to attempt to provide some organization to this collection by differentiating breast cancers into molecular subtypes on the basis of similarities between tumors at the genetic level. Advances in this field have resulted in the classification of breast cancer into four distinct molecular subtypes: luminal A, luminal B, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) enriched, and basal-like. These subtypes are unevenly distributed among women with breast cancers with differences according to race, menopausal status, and age. These distinct differences in tumor genetics have different patterns of disease expression, response to therapy, and patient survival outcomes.
The initial presentation of disease and subsequent metastatic spread are influenced by molecular subtype. For example, patients with HER2 enriched tumors have higher rates of nodal involvement, multifocal disease, intraductal components, and lymphovascular invasion than do patients with luminal A tumors. Patients with luminal A and B cancers are more likely to develop bone metastases than are those with the basal-like subtype, who are more likely to develop lung and brain lesions. Molecular subtypes also have shown differences in response to therapeutic interventions. In general, HER2 enriched cancers are more likely to have a complete pathologic response to preoperative chemotherapy. In comparison, luminal A and B cancers show improved response rates to post mastectomy radiation therapy. The luminal B subtype has been shown to have significantly worse relapse-free survival rates than the luminal A subtype, with the increased risk limited to the early period after surgery. Although both luminal A and B subtypes have estrogen receptors (ERs) or progesterone receptors (PRs), the luminal B subtype has been shown to be relatively insensitive to endocrine therapies. These differences in molecular subtype patterns of disease extent and treatment response have subsequent effects on patient survival outcomes and theoretically could be used to help guide initial treatment planning and imaging followup.
Although differentiation of breast cancer into molecular subtypes is a potentially powerful tool to enable clinicians to better guide therapeutic interventions, genetic analysis presents a high barrier because of the cost, specialized equipment, and technical expertise needed to process each sample. As a result, formal molecular subtype analysis is currently neither practical nor cost efficient for all patients with breast cancer. There is a great deal of interest in identifying surrogate markers for individual molecular subtypes. The most widely established method is the use of immunohistochemical surrogates to replace formal genetic analysis. The immunohistochemical markers for ER, PR, and HER2 status have been used to define molecular subtypes: ER- or PR-positive and HER2-negative subtypes for luminal A, ER- or PR-positive and HER2-positive subtypes for luminal B, ER- and PR-negative and HER2-positive subtypes for HER2-enriched, and ER-, PR-, and HER2-negative subtypes for basal-like cancers. The use of surrogates has many advantages, including lower cost, no additional testing, and the ability to pursue hypothesis driven research on a scale larger than would be feasible with genetic analysis; however, the use of surrogates has been shown to be less robustly predictive of outcomes than is formal genetic analysis, and the concordance for molecular subtype classification between immunohistochemical surrogates and formal genetic analysis ranges from 41% to 100%. As a result, there is a demand for additional alternative methods that can allow differentiation of breast cancer into molecular subtypes.
Breast cancer subtype analysis is important for establishing initial treatment regimens, but clinicians must also make complicated decisions regarding how, when, and if to utilize chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, radiation therapy, and/or surgery. This treatment planning is currently dictated by patient age, tumor characteristics, tumor subtype as discussed above, and disease extent, as older patients with more limited disease may benefit from a more conservative course of action and younger patients with more extensive disease may need more aggressive therapies. These variables are associated with patient survival statistics, and there are multiple online breast cancer survival calculators freely available to clinicians to facilitate discussions with patients and guide treatment planning. These calculators rely on information that is patient specific (e.g., age, hormone receptor status) which only allows for generalizable conclusions.
Thus, there is a need for tools, which may be used as a rapid method for noninvasively categorizing breast cancer subtypes and provide prognostic value regarding treatment regimens and patient refractory free and overall survival. Specifically, because preoperative breast magnetic resonance imaging is an important part of the diagnostic workup for many patients there is a need for tools, which incorporate information from MRI imaging studies and improve both diagnostic and prognostic accuracy.

Systems and methods for extracting prognostic image features


A standardized message processing procedure is invoked by an application program to generate informative messages. Message repositories are provided in files accessible to the message processor. A separate repository is provided for each national language which is supported. The application invokes the message processor, passing variable information for inclusion in a message. The message processor retrieves the message syntax and fixed fields from the appropriate repository, assembles the message using information from the repository and information provided by the invoking application, and generates the message. A preprocessor can be used to generate the repository files, and macros suitable for inclusion in application source files to invoke the message processor.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates generally to digital computer systems, and more specifically to a system for processing and displaying informative messages to a user of the computer system.
2. Background Art
Programs running on computer systems must communicate information to a user of the system and to other programs. Large programs, such as operating systems and product applications, have a large number of informative messages which must be communicated to a system operator or a user from time to time.
These messages may simply be informative messages, such as those informing a user that an action has been completed or a resource is now available. Some messages could be considered as warning messages, which inform a user that something is not as expected, such as a file not being in the expected format. Critical messages, or error messages, can be considered to be those messages which inform a user that an attempted action failed, such as an attempt to open a file which did not exist. A significant amount of code in large applications such as operating systems can be dedicated to handling such informative messages.
Messages to be read by a user or operator must be presented in a language understood by that person. These languages are often referred to as "national languages" to distinguish them from programming languages. The message generating code must be written with knowledge of the end user's national language. Changes and updates typically involve recompiling the entire application.
Since different national languages can vary quite significantly in syntax (for example, some national languages read right to left and others read left to right, and grammar varies from language to language), translation can be a time consuming task. In addition, significant changes can be introduced into the source code for the message handling subsystem. Maintenance and support becomes much more difficult for products made available in numerous countries having different national languages when different source code was used to generate that product for each different country. Errors found in one national language version will not necessarily be found in other versions, and updates and changes to the application as a whole becomes more difficult.
It would therefore be desirable to provide a message processing system for larger applications which did not need to be recompiled or re-link-edited for each change. Also, it would be desirable for such a message processing system to gracefully and flexibly handle different national languages without introducing a number of different source code versions.

International Business Machines Corporation


A system and method is provided for obtaining and utilizing operational information for a plurality of displays in a distributed computing system. The system can provide for a plurality of base units which are coupled with a plurality of displays. The displays operation to collect and store operational data which can then be transmitted to the base units. The base units can be coupled to a network, and through the network operation data for the displays can be transmitted to an administrative computer. The administrative computer can then store and the analyze the operational data for the plurality of displays. This analysis can be used to identify under utilized assets, and to identify displays which have been operated under conditions which suggest a need for replacement, or servicing.

For a number of different distributed computing environments, systems can now utilize a wide range of different modular and interchangeable components. For example, one computing environment could provide for a number of different personal computers, with each computer being coupled with different interchangeable computing modules. Different modules could include hard disc drives, optical drives, flash memory devices, or a myriad of other storage of processing devices, and could include devices such as displays or monitors. In some computing environments where computers and modules are used in secure environments, such as some military applications, intelligence operations, and research and development facilities, it may be desirable to limit access to use of certain modules to particular locations, people, computers, or other modules. Further, in addition to providing for control over access to different modules it can be desirable to provide a method for tracking which people have accessed different modules in the system. U.S. Pat. No. 5,552,776 (the '776 patent), entitled ENHANCED SECURITY SYSTEM FOR COMPUTING DEVICES, to Wade et al., and assigned to the same assignee as the present application, teaches among other things a system which provides for controlling access or use of different memory modules in computing system, and this patent is incorporated herein by reference. Additional elements and embodiments of systems utilizing different interchangeable memory storage modules are also described in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/754,934, filed Jan. 9, 2004, entitled SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SWITCHING DATA STORAGE DEVICES AND MULTIPLE PROCESSORS, which is assigned to the same assignee as the present application, and which is incorporated herein by reference.
The '776 patent teaches aspect of using different memory tables in different computing to provide for security and access control over different computing devices coupled with a docking base unit.

System and method for tracking operational data in a distributed environment


The present invention relates to a method of monitoring a communication network (100) between an ingress node (102) and an egress node (104), comprising:                a first step of assigning first time stamps to data packet samples of a data stream, by the ingress node,        a second step of assigning of second time, by the egress node,        a third step of determining an evaluation of network performances, these first, second and third steps being performed according to an operating procedure.The method of the invention is characterized in that the ingress node performs further steps of determining a quality measurement of the data stream and, by comparing it to a quality control profile, determining the operating procedure.

The operators and users of enterprise networks prefer that their networks be predictable and provide consistent performance. Predictability and consistency are often more important than the raw capabilities of the network, i.e. a network that provides a consistent medium throughput is often considered more desirable than a network which provides very high throughput at some times, but performs poorly at other times. For many business applications, it is important that transactions be completed in a predictable manner while the time taken for the transactions to complete is relatively unimportant (provided it does not exceed a reasonable limit).
Prior art solutions provide network predictability by preconfiguring the network. This does not work in an IP network, because IP is dynamic and connectionless, and therefore relatively unpredictable. The typical enterprise network environment consists of several campus area networks interconnected by a wide area backbone network. The campus networks usually deploy high-speed links, and perform reasonably well. Congestion tends to occur in the backbone network, which consists of relatively slower speed point-to-point links, and in some of the campus networks which house the servers.
An approach is needed which will provide predictability on an IP backbone network, and do so for backbones with varying degrees of capability. If the network provider can predict the performance of the network, then he can implement service level agreements. A service level agreement is a formal contract entered into by a service provider and its customers. The service provider contracts to transport packets of electronic data between customer premise networks (branch offices, data centers, server farms, etc.) across the provider's backbone network with certain assurances on the quality of the service. This is known as the Service Level Agreement (SLA). The SLA specifies customer expectations of performance in terms of parameters such as availability (bound on downtime), delay, loss, priority and bandwidth for specific traffic characteristics. An SLA includes acceptable levels of performance, which may be expressed in terms of response time, throughput, availability (such as 95% or 99% or 99.9%), and expected time to repair.
SLAs vary greatly from one network to the next, and from one application to another running on the same network. They are normally based on some level of expected activity. For example, if a large airline wants to ensure that the lines at the ticket counter do not get overly long due to poor response time at the ticketing terminals, some estimate must be made of expected workload, so that the network administrator can be prepared with the necessary resources to meet that workload and still remain compliant with the performance terms of the SLA. Another example is audio/video conferences where a certain level of service needs to be guaranteed.
Managing an SLA is an important task because of the revenue implications of failure to support mission-critical business applications. The problem is exacerbated due to diversity of the traffic and due to poor and varying degree of service differentiation mechanisms within the backbone networks. Commercially significant traffic must be prioritised above workloads which do not have a critical time dependency for the success of the business. Many of these workloads in an IP environment are far more volatile than those which have traditionally been encountered in the prior art. In order to meet customer requirements in this environment, a service provider must provide a large excess capacity at correspondingly high charges.
This situation dramatizes the need for effective tools which can monitor the performance of the IP network or system delivering a service over the IP network. Also, there is a need for effective controls which allow the service provider of an IP network to manipulate the priority of the various workloads to be managed.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,459,682 shows a method of controlling packet traffic in an IP network of originating, receiving and intermediate nodes to meet performance objectives established by service level agreements. Traffic statistics and performance data such as delay and loss rates relating to traffic flows are collected at intermediate nodes. A control server processes the collected data to determines data flow rates for different priorities of traffic. A static directory node is used to look up inter-node connections and determine initial traffic classes corresponding to those connections. The rates are combined with the initial traffic classes to define codes for encoding the headers of packets to determine their network priority.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,519,264 shows a method for measuring a rate of message element traffic over a message path in a communications network. The path includes at least one connection and is associated with a maximum rate of transmission. The path is periodically polled for transmission of a message element, the polling being performed at a polling rate associated with polling intervals which are at least as frequent as the maximum rate of transmission. If transmission of a message element is detected during a polling interval, a running count of such detection is incremented, the running count of detection being associated with the connection over which the message element was detected. If transmission of a message element is not detected, a running count of such non-detection is incremented, the running count of non-detection being associated with inactivity of the message path. During each polling interval, an oldest stored value is retrieved from a memory which includes a preselected number of stored values that correspond to an equal number of most recent sequential events of detection and non-detection. Each stored value which represents an event of detection corresponds to an identifier denoting the connection over which the message element was detected. Each stored value which represents an event of non-detection corresponds to an identifier denoting inactivity of the message path. Following retrieval during each polling interval, the running count of detection associated with the connection corresponding to the identifier of the retrieved value is decremented if the retrieved value represents an event of detection. The running count of non-detection is decremented if the retrieved value represents inactivity. The retrieved value is thereafter replaced with a value corresponding to an identifier which denotes the connection over which the message element was detected if transmission was detected. Otherwise the retrieved value is replaced in the memory with a value corresponding to an identifier which denotes inactivity if transmission was not detected. The foregoing steps are repeated for so long as the measurement is undertaken. The rate of message element traffic over a connection of the message path is proportional to the running count of detection associated with the connection.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,363,056 shows a network monitoring method where incoming data packets are time stamped by an ingress node and time stamped again by an egress node. The difference between the two time stamps serves to calculate the delay.
Other network monitoring and managing tools are commercially available from Brix networks (http://www.brixnetworks.com/) and Ipanema Technologies (http://www.ipanematech.com/).
A common disadvantage of prior art network monitoring and control programs is the expense for performing the network measurements, especially in terms of additional network load.


An internal combustion engine has a starter device, wherein the starter device has a drive member and a driven member and a locking mechanism for coupling the drive member and the driven member to one another for starting the internal combustion engine. The locking mechanism has at least one pawl that is pivotably supported on the driven member. For decoupling the drive member and the driven member, the at least one pawl is pivoted outwardly relative to an axis of rotation of the starter device. The at least one pawl has at least one pivot position in which the at least one pawl contacts at least one contact area of the driven member. The at least one pawl has at least one cover covering the at least one contact area.

The invention relates to an internal combustion engine comprising a starter device, wherein the starter device comprises a drive member and a driven member that can be coupled to one another by a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism has at least one pawl that is pivotably supported on the driven member which pawl for decoupling the drive member and the driven member, is pivoted outwardly and in at least one pivot position contacts at least one contact area of the driven member.
U.S. 2005/0051124 A1 discloses a starter device for an internal combustion engine that comprises a locking mechanism for connecting the drive member and the driven member. The pawls of the locking mechanism are arranged in a receiving space on the flywheel which space is surrounded by a peripheral wall.
In operation, the flywheel conveys a stream of air. The stream of air can contain dirt particles. Since the receiving space of the locking mechanism is not completely sealed relative to the ambient, dirt particles can also reach the receiving space. As a result of centrifugal forces the dirt particles are thrown outwardly against the peripheral wall. The dirt particles will deposit on this wall and can thus cause the pawls to no longer be able to completely pivot outwardly or to become stuck in the outwardly pivoted position. This impairs the function of the locking mechanism. Therefore, it may be necessary to clean the starter device before starting the internal combustion engine.

Internal combustion engine with starter device


MFP 100 obtains document image data by reading an image of an IC-tagged document by means of image scanning unit 150, and writes it into the IC tag of the document as archive information of the document image by means of IC-tagged reading/writing unit 140. It also writes the differential image data obtained by extracting the difference between the document image data and the image data related to the archive information stored in the IC tag of the document as the archive information of the document image. Moreover, MFP 100 is capable of reading the desired archive information from the IC tag of the document, and printing or deleting it. This makes it possible to accumulate and use the archive information of the document image in the document itself when the document image is updated multiple times by handwriting notes, etc.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to an image processing device for handling documents equipped with an electronic tag, in particular, an image processing device capable of accumulating archive information of document image on the document itselfe to be used as the document is updated several times by means of handwritten notes, etc.,
2. Description of Related Art
There are occasions wherein the images of a document are updated several times by means of handwritten notes and other means and it is desirable to obtain the original images or images at each updating. In such a case, the common practice has been to print the original images and updated images in each case and file them, which ends up in a substantial waste of paper and filing spaces.
In contrast, an image processing device is known for transmitting the images obtained by scanning the updated document images to and store them in a server as archive information (e.g., JP-2000-115422A). However, it is necessary to access the server via a network and the like in such a device, so that it is incapable of speedy processing, and also that it cannot be used in an environment which lack network facilities.
On the other hand, printed matters that hold the attribute information thereof on themselves by using printing paper with an IC tag, which is embedded in a certain part of printing paper, and image forming devices that allow the uses to use the attribute information by reading it from the IC tag during the printing process have been known (e.g., JP-2001-24845A). However, even in case of those printed matters or devices, it is impossible to use images of previous updates when an image has been updated multiple times by means of handwritten notes, etc.

Image processing device, image processing method and image processing program

Konica Minolta Business Technologies, Inc.


A method for providing a game service and a server for performing the same are disclosed. A method by which a server provides a game service can comprise the steps of: receiving image data including motion data from a user terminal; generating skill motion sequence data of a game character corresponding to the motion data; and adjusting a skill motion of the game character on the basis of the generated skill motion sequence data.

In a game service, a skill motion of a game character is performed in a manner defined when a game developer develops a game. Thus, because a motion of the same form is performed with respect to the same skill of the same character without regard to a user who plays a game, it is difficult to reflect the personality of the user through the skill motion of the game character. The game service provides an environment in which a game user is able to project his or her own personality through a combination of items worn by a game character, but the item worn by the game character is merely an item previously defined by the developer.

Apparatus and method for providing game service


A starting apparatus for a high-pressure discharge lamp provided with an auxiliary starting electrode, has a series resonant circuit for the purpose of generating the starting voltage for the high-pressure discharge lamp. The resonant inductance of the series resonant circuit includes the primary winding of a transformer, whose secondary winding is provided for the purpose of applying the starting voltage to the auxiliary starting electrode (Z) of the high-pressure discharge lamp. The invention also relates to a high-pressure discharge lamp, in particular to a vehicle headlight lamp, having such a starting apparatus arranged in the lamp base.

EP-A 0 294 604 describes a circuit arrangement for the purpose of operating a vehicle headlight high-pressure discharge lamp having a sinusoidal AC voltage. The circuit arrangement comprises a series resonant circuit which generates a sinusoidal AC voltage having a frequency of 45 kilohertz and an amplitude of up to 18 000 volts for the purpose of starting the gas discharge in the high-pressure discharge lamp at the resonant capacitor by means of the resonant peak method, and this sinusoidal AC voltage starts the lamp within a time span of 6 milliseconds.

Starting apparatus for a high-pressure discharge lamp and high-pressure discharge lamp having a starting apparatus and operating method for a high-pressure discharge lamp

Patent-Treuhand-Gessellschaft für Elektrische Glühlampen mbH


The present invention relates to a hydraulic brake system with slip control, including a brake line which connects a braking pressure generator to several wheel brakes, at least one pressure modulation valve associated with each wheel brake to control the hydraulic connection to the wheel brake, a pump which supplies stored pressure fluid to the wheel brakes by way of a pressure fluid collecting means connected to a suction line, and sensors to determine the rotational speed of the wheels and an evaluating circuit to control the wheel slip. The pressure fluid connection between the braking pressure generator and the wheel brakes is established by a brake line, to which the pump is connected, wherein a multi-way valve and a monitoring device including a pressure sensor is inserted into the brake line to sense the pressure prevailing at the pressure modulation valve of the wheel brake.

Previously, hydraulic brake systems with slip control have exclusively been conceived as multi-circuit, preferably dual-circuit, brake systems. A satisfactory deceleration of the vehicle, which is in conformity with legal regulations for brake systems, is achieved due to the given redundance of brake circuits in the event of brake circuit leakage. In this respect, reference is made to the source of literature "BOSCH Technische Unterrichtung" (technical instructions), automotive vehicle brake systems, Robert Bosch GmbH, first edition of September 1989.
Although legal regulations for passenger vehicles in Europe and the U.S. so far do not mandate the provision of multiple circuits in brake systems, multiple circuit systems are the norm. A multiple-circuit brake system is relatively complicated and expensive, especially with respect to an application for anti-lock and/or traction slip control. Further, the complexity of such hydraulic brake systems with slip control involves a great number of possible malfunctions, which should not be underestimated. Such malfunctions are mainly due to leakages of the pump, the braking pressure generator and the pressure modulation valves.

Hydraulic brake system with slip control, in particular for multiple-axle automotive vehicles


Disclosed is a system and method for generating a vehicle speed alert in a driving simulation system that communicates with a remote driving simulator engine and a remote speed optimization engine. The remote speed optimization engine receives data from the vehicle speed alert system after the vehicle speed alert system has received data from the remote driving simulator engine, including the vehicle's simulated distance to a signalized intersection, the time remaining for the simulated traffic light to change, and the current simulated light status (green, yellow, red) of the traffic light. The vehicle speed alert system then receives from the remote speed optimization engine a recommended speed profile for that given instant, and if the driver's current speed does not fall within some maximum difference with the current recommended speed profile, calculates and transmits an alert to an output device to alert the driver of action necessary to achieve the recommended speed profile.

The environmental impact of the use of fossil fuels, and particularly the burning of fossil fuels exhibited by modern vehicular traffic, is of significant concern and the topic of much study. An important aspect relating to vehicular traffic's consumption of fossil fuels is fuel economy, such that systems and methods have been employed to improve fuel economy and, thus, reduce any negative impacts of vehicular traffic's consumption of fossil fuels on the environment. While various motor vehicle systems are constantly under development to improve on such fuel economy, the vehicle operator or driver themselves also have a significant impact, such that understanding and preferably modifying driver behavior to better control fuel consumption may significantly improve fuel economy.
For example, studies have shown that vehicle fuel consumption levels near signalized intersections are dramatically increased due to the driver's deceleration and acceleration of the vehicle as they approach and travel through the intersection. Studies have focused on changing traffic signal timing to optimize vehicles' fuel demand levels, and researchers have attempted to use connected vehicle ("CV") technology and infrastructure technologies to develop eco-driving strategies that are more fuel efficient. For example, Eco-Speed Control ("ESC") was developed to optimize individual vehicle fuel consumption by recommending a fuel-efficient trajectory using advanced information from surrounding vehicles and upcoming signalized intersections. One such ESC system that was developed that computes and recommends a fuel-efficient speed profile in a CV environment is described in Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, Connected Vehicle/Infrastructure University Transportation Center (CVI-UTC), "Field Testing of Eco-Speed Control Using V2I Communication," Apr. 15, 2016, which document is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
As such fuel-saving analytical tools require manual engagement by the driver (unless employed in an automated vehicle), they are dependent upon the driver's response to the recommended speed profile that such system provides. For the system to achieve its intended benefit, the driver must both become aware of the ideal speed that will maximize fuel economy, and then actually react to that knowledge by modifying their speed to match the ideal speed.
One tool that may be useful in evaluating a driver's willingness and ability to adapt their speed to such a recommended ideal speed as they are approaching an intersection with a traffic signal are driving simulators. Driving simulators offer a valuable training tool that allow driver's to hone and improve driving skills without the physical risks associated with operating on the open road, and thus may likewise be valuable in determining the driver's ability and willingness to modify their vehicle speed in response to a directed ideal speed without incurring the expense and fuel waste that would be associated with such training on the open road.
Unfortunately, however, while computer-generated artificial environments are increasing in complexity and realism, driving simulators to date are of limited capabilities in actually simulating a real-world environment that a driver will actually encounter when operating a physical vehicle on the open road. A highly sophisticated, alternate reality environment has, however, been created by FORUM8 Co. Ltd., of Tokyo, Japan, which offers readily commercially available driving simulation software known as UC-win/Road, which software is capable of creating and editing a complete network of traffic elements, including road alignments, intersection design, traffic signals, cross sections, roadside signs, terrain setup, and traffic generation. The FORUM8 UC-win/Road simulator is capable of replicating the driving task on different roadway and pavement types, under various traffic conditions and compositions, using varied traffic information (e.g., dynamic message signs), and under various weather conditions (e.g., rain, fog, snow, etc.), and is capable of building networks with desired features similar to the real world.
Thus, in order to better evaluate driver response to automated ESC systems that may generate a recommended speed profile, it would be advantageous to provide systems and methods able to process data received from a driving simulator that creates a true virtual reality driving environment, such data including simulated vehicle speed and location data in relation to an intersection having a traffic signal, determine an ideal speed based on that current speed and location data that will maximize fuel economy as the driver approaches and travels through the intersection, and alert the driver to that ideal speed so that the driver may adjust their speed to match that calculated ideal speed, and so that the driver's response to the ideal speed alert may be observed.

System and method for generating vehicle speed alerts


A method and process is described for providing Non-Invasive three dimensional (3-D) image of a patient such that during surgical or other procedures, the person performing the procedure can visually identify the organs and the location of the instruments in real time inside the body. Such a non-invasive imaging and reconstruction using spatially coordinated imaging in three dimensions is a very valuable tool especially to the surgical community. The high powered computing capabilities, advances in the imaging techniques, individually or in combination when combined with noise filtering and error correction capabilities, have made accurate 3-D imaging in real time from scans a reality. These 3-D images are also used as a diagnostic tool, a practice tool and a teaching tool by the medical community. There may be other applications in these and related areas which may emerge as technology develops and they become apparent to individuals practicing the art.

Today most of the robot assisted procedures are conducted by the surgeon operating with a limited vision of the operating field, through microscopes and manipulating the instruments by what is visible in the narrow field of view through the optical cable inserted into the body with the surgical instrumentation. The surgeon has no real wide view of the operating area. There has been scanning and imaging technology such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), X-ray, ultra-sound (ultrasonic imaging) etc. which are in wide spread use in diagnostic fields. 3-D imaging technology is also available today, to a limited extend using the images generated which are being used for diagnostic and training purposes. This has improved the capabilities existing for practice of nano-surgery and micro-surgery or procedure (key-hole procedures) and made them more prevalent. But as of now there are no capabilities for viewing the surgery or procedure in a 3-D image projection where the individual doing the procedure can visually see what is being done in real time in a simulated environment. Such a capability if available will be very useful to improve the efficiency of procedures and reduce the problems substantially for key-hole procedures. The MRI scanning and CT scanning are all techniques used today for diagnostic purposes. These are both high resolution scanning methods. These high resolution scanning and processing of the scanned data to generate usable information and images are slow and not real time. The images need to be reconstructed by mathematical computation which makes it a good and reliable diagnostic tool but not easily usable in real time procedures or consultations during the procedures. They are also not usable in procedures to see the location of the instruments inside the body as the procedures happen. This makes them not suitable, by themselves, for the applications which are covered by the current invention.
Low intensity X-ray and Ultra-Sonic scanning to generate images are the other two modes of imaging in use in the medical field that provide fast images but with somewhat lower resolution. All these techniques are in use today as stand-alone applications. It will be of use if a system and method can be found that provide real time visual imaging capability with spatial coordination, such that 3-D images can be generated and updated in real time for conducting procedures with full visibility to the field of the procedure and instrument placement as the procedure is conducted. Such a spatially coordinated 3-D image will also enhance the capability to provide automated robotic implementation of procedures.
What is needed and is proposed hence is the use of ultra-sonic and low level X-ray imaging techniques, that are fast imaging techniques providing real time imaging capability, enabled for use in conjunction with high resolution scanning techniques that provide clear high resolution imaging capabilities, such as MRI or CT, to enable generation of spatially aligned real time continuously updating 3-D image of the patient, thereby providing enhanced real-time visual capability for critical procedures. This is a new field which the inventors believe is an emerging field.

Non-invasive imager for medical applications


A substrate ozone processing device includes: a substrate-carrying/heating platform; above the platform, a gas supply head made up of a main head unit bored with platform-directed vent holes, gas conduits connected at their basal ends to the gas vent holes and separated by an interspace communicating with the gas-supply-head exterior, and a plurality of coplanar facing plates perforated, top-side-to-underside, with gas-discharging through-holes receiving the distal ends of the gas conduits, and with a latticework of gaps surrounding the discharging through-holes and communicating with the interspace; and a gas supply device for supplying ozone gas to the discharging through-holes. The facing plates are of small volume such that even should heat transfer between the plates and the substrate occur, thermal equilibrium between the plates and the substrate is reached in a short time, facilitating substrate temperature management.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to an ozone processing device which discharges a processing gas containing at least ozone onto the surface of a substrate such as a semiconductor substrate or a liquid crystal substrate in order to form or to improve an oxide film on the substrate surface or to remove a resist film formed on the substrate surface.
2. Description of the Related Art
FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 show examples of conventional ozone processing devices. FIG. 7 is a cross-section drawing showing a portion of an ozone processing device based on a conventional technology and is a cross-section drawing along the E-E line in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a bottom-view drawing along the D-D line in FIG. 7.
As FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 show, an ozone processing device 100 is equipped with: a mounting base 101 on which a substrate K is mounted; a gas supply head 102 disposed above the mounting base 101 so that it faces the substrate K. The mounting base 101 and the gas supply head 102 are disposed in a chamber (not illustrated) equipped with a closed space. The chamber (not illustrated) is formed with a suitable exhaust opening from which internal gasses are discharged to the outside.
The mounting base 101 is equipped with an internal heating device (not illustrated) formed from a heater. The substrate K mounted on the upper surface is heated by this heating device (not illustrated). Also, the mounting base 101 can be raised and lowered by a raising/lowering device (not illustrated).
The gas supply head 102 is formed from a nozzle module 103 and a cooling module 104, both formed as block-shaped members that are stacked vertically and bonded. A cavity 105 is formed on the upper surface of the nozzle module 103, i.e., the surface where it bonds with the cooling module 104. Nozzles 106, which communicate with the cavity 105 and open on the lower surface, are arranged in a plurality of rows in a staggered manner. Exhaust grooves 107, which open on the side surfaces, are formed on the bottom surface between the rows of the nozzle 106.
The cooling module 104 is formed from an upper member 104a and a lower member 104b, which are stacked vertically and bonded. A cooling fluid path 108 (108a, 108b) is formed on the bonding surface between the upper member 104a and the lower member 104b in a zigzag pattern extending from one side surface to the other side surface. The cooling fluid path 108 is connected by way of pipes 109, 110 to external cooling fluid supplying means 111. In this manner, the cooling fluid path 108, the pipes 109, 110, and cooling fluid supplying means 111 form a circulation path for cooling fluid to allow the cooling fluid to circulate.
The cooling module 104 is formed with a through-hole 112 that passes from the upper surface to the lower surface and communicates with the cavity 105. This through-hole 112 is connected by way of a pipe 114 connected thereto to an external ozone gas generating device 113. A predetermined concentration of ozone gas (processing gas) is supplied from ozone gas generating means 113 by way of the pipe 114 and the through-hole 112 to the cavity 105, and is discharged toward the substrate K from the lower openings of the nozzle 106.
With the ozone processing device 100 described above, the substrate K is mounted on the mounting base 101. The substrate K is mounted on heating means (not shown) and the mounting base 101 is raised by raising/lowering means (not shown) to a position, as shown in FIG. 7, where it is separated by a predetermined space from the gas supply head 102.
Then, the ozone gas is supplied from ozone gas generating device 113 to the cavity 105 by way of the pipe 114 and the through-hole 112, and this is blown toward the substrate K from the lower openings of the nozzles 106.
The ozone gas flows discharged from the nozzles 106 in this manner run into the surface of the substrate K, flow along the surface, and run into each other to form a flow toward the exhaust grooves 107. During this flow, the ozone (O3) is heated by the substrate K. This heating and the contact with the substrate K and the resist cause the gas to break down into oxygen (O2) and active oxygen (O*). This active oxygen (O*) forms an oxide film on the surface of the substrate K, improves the oxide film on the surface of the substrate K, or removes the resist film formed on the surface of the substrate K by a thermochemical reaction with the active oxygen (O*).
Then, the ozone gas that flows into the exhaust grooves 107 after the processing it performs is exhausted by way of the exhaust grooves 107 from between the substrate K and the gas supply head 102.
In this ozone processing device 100, the gas supply head 102 is cooled by a cooling fluid, and the ozone gas that flows through the through-hole 112, the cavity 105, and the nozzle 106 is cooled by the cooling fluid. Thus, the ozone gas flowing through the through-hole 112, the cavity 105, and the nozzle 106 is prevented from undergoing thermal decomposition due to increased temperature, thus preventing the ozone concentration from dropping due to thermal decomposition.
Also, since the substrate K and the gas supply head 102 are brought close to each other so that the lower openings of the nozzles 106 can be near the substrate K, the ozone discharged from the nozzles 106 is prevented from being thermally decomposed before it reaches the substrate K and a thinner layer of ozone gas flowing on the substrate K is provided. This allows more ozone to contribute to the formation of the oxide film, the improvement of the oxide film, or the removal of the resist film.
In this conventional ozone processing device 100, the gas supply head 102 is positioned close to the substrate K as described above. This causes heat to transfer from the substrate K and the mounting base 101 to the gas supply head 102, resulting in an increase in temperature in the gas supply head 102.
Because the volume (capacity) of the gas supply head 102 is high and is cooled with the cooling fluid described above, thermal equilibrium in the substrate K and the gas supply head 102 becomes difficult to achieve and takes a long time. As a result, the temperature of the substrate K does not stay constant over a long period of time, leading to unevenness in the ozone processing operation.
Also, the processing gas discharged from the nozzles 106 flow into the exhaust grooves 107. The processing gas discharged from the nozzles 106 toward the center of the nozzle module 103 is discharged from the nozzles 106 disposed toward the ends because the gas discharged from the nozzles 106 flow into the exhaust grooves 107. The gas flowing into the exhaust grooves 107 obstructs the flow within the exhaust grooves 107, making it difficult for the gas discharged from the nozzles 106 toward the center from being exhausted out between the substrate K and the gas supply head 102.


Provided herein are aminoquinazoline compounds, salts and uses thereof. The compounds have Formula (I), or a stereoisomer, a geometric isomer, a tautomer, an N-oxide, a hydrate, a solvate, a metabolite, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a prodrug thereof. Also provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds disclosed herein, and uses of the compounds or the compositions for preventing, managing, treating or lessening the severity of a proliferative disorder in a patient and for modulating the protein tyrosine kinase activity.

Protein kinases (PKs) represent a large family of proteins, which play an important role in the regulation of a wide variety of cellular processes and maintaining control over cellular functions. There are two classes of protein kinases (PKs): the protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) and the serine-threonine kinases (STKs). The protein tyrosine kinase is an enzyme that catalytically transfers the phosphate group from ATP to the tyrosine residue located at the protein substrate, and has a play in the normal cell growth. Many growth factor receptor proteins operate via the tyrosine kinase, and influence the conduction of signal passage and further regulate the cell growth by this process. However, in some circumstances, these receptors become abnormal due to either mutation or overexpression, which cause the uncontrolled cell multiplication, cause the tumor growth, and finally initiate the well-known disease, i.e., cancer. The growth factor receptor protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor, via the inhibition of the above phosphorylation process, may treat cancers and other diseases characterized by the uncontrolled or abnormal cell growth.
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a kind of receptor tyrosine kinases, is a multifunction glycoprotein that is widely distributed on the cell membranes of the tissues of the human body, and is an oncogene analog of avian erythroblastic leukemia viral (v-erb-b). Human EGFR/HER1/ErbB-1 and HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor-2)/ErbB-2/Teu/p185, HER3/ErbB-3, HER4/ErbB-4 and the like are grouped into the HER/ErbB family, and belong to protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs). They are single polypeptide chains, and each is encoded respectively by genes located on different chromosomes. EGFR and the like are expressed in the epithelia-derived tumors such as squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck, mammary cancer, rectal cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and the like, which are associated with cell proliferation, metastasis, and the like. Pan-HER tyrosine kinase inhibitor, via the competitive binding to the kinase catalytic sites in the intracellular region against ATP, blocks the autophosphorylation of intramolecular tyrosine, blocks the tyrosine kinase activation, inhibits HER-2 family activation, and therefore inhibits cell cycle progression, accelerates cell apoptosis, and exerts the therapeutic action.
EGFR, after binding to the ligand, forms a dimer with a subgroup of HER family, and then combines with ATP to activate the tyrosine kinase activity of the EGFR itself. Therefore, the autophosphorylation occurs in several tyrosine sites of the intracellular kinase region. Pan-HER tyrosine kinase inhibitor, via simultaneity acting on EGFR and HER2/4, inhibits the activation of HER family, and plays a good role in the tumor growth inhibition.
It is indicated in the study that Pan-HER tyrosine kinase irreversible inhibitor has an inhibition effect on HER2/4, besides it effectively inhibits EGFR. The pharmaceutical drugs of this kind, having an irreversible inhibition to both of HER/ErbB families, not only increase the drug activity, but also reduce the drug resistance, and have a substantial inhibition effect on H1975 cell lines which are resistant to erlotinib.
The pharmaceutical drugs that are now commercially available include selective EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinb (IRESSA®, ZD1839), erlotinib (TARCEVA®, OSI-774), double EGFR/HER2 inhibitor Lapatinib (TYKERB®, GW572016), and the like. These three drugs are all reversible EGF receptor tyrosine phosphorylation kinase inhibitor. It has been found in the study that they have good therapeutic response to some tumors initially. However, several months after the treatment, the disease progression appears again and therefore a natural or secondary drug resistance forms. For example, about half of the patients administered with gefitinib or erlotinib develop resistance to gefitinib or erlotinib, which can not lead to the desired therapeutic effect. And it has been indicated by study that the development of drug resistance to selective EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor relates to mutations in EGFR.
The mutations of EGFR gene mostly located in the tyrosing kinase coding domain (TK, exons 18-21) are mainly deletion mutation in exon 19 and point mutation in exon 21, both of which are drug-sensitive, and few are point mutation in exon 18 and insertion mutation in exon 20. T790M mutation recognized as one of the mechanism of drug resistance is a point mutation in exon 20 of EGFR. The presence of a second-site EGFR mutation leads to the substitution of methionine for threonine at position 790 (T790M) and changes in the structure of EGFR, which hinder the binding of EGFR inhibitors to EGFR or greatly increase the affinity between EGFR and ATP, so that ATP affinity back to the level of wild-type EGFR, thus resulting in drug resistance. Further studies shows that the pre-treatment tumor samples with mutations of EGFR contain T790M mutation, which indicates that T790M mutation is not just associated with drug resistance and it may have the carcinogenic potential itself.
Irreversible inhibitor can bind to EGFR tyrosine kinase by covalent bond. Thus, the drugs can act on the entire link of epidermal growth factor signal transduction pathway, and improve efficiency of drug blocking. Many clinical studies show that some irreversible inhibitors in current development can against T790M mutation, and overcome the drug resistance caused by T790M. Meanwhile, listed drug Afatinib (BIBW 2992) and some irreversible inhibitors in clinical development (e.g., Dacomitinib, PF00299804, etc.), can inhibit multiple members of EGFR receptor family, especially to the role of EGFR and HER-2, possibly by blocking collaborative signal pathway activated by homodimer and heterodimer to enhance inhibitory effect (Oncologist, 2009, 14 (11): 1116-1130).
Upon developing the drug having an excellent antineoplastic effect, being able to reduce the drug resistance and having a good tolerance, the present inventors discover a quinazoline derivatives as tyrosine kinase inhibitors having a Pan-HER irreversible inhibition function.

Aminoquinazoline derivatives and their salts and methods of use thereof


A sense amplifier is provided for reading data in a multiple-state memory cell of a resistive memory array in response to a read voltage applied across the sensed memory cell, including a differential amplifier having first and second input nodes. A sense circuit determines the current in the memory cell with the read voltage applied thereto and applies a sense current representative of the memory cell current to the first input node of the differential amplifier. A reference circuit has first and second resistive elements for applying a reference current to the second input node of the differential amplifier to provide a reference value against which to compare the sense current to determine the state of the memory cell. The first resistive element has a resistance representative of a first state of the memory cell, and the second resistive element has a resistance representative of a second state of the memory cell. A voltage source for applying the read voltage across the first and second resistive elements to generate a reference current by averaging the currents through the first and second resistive elements. A first translator transistor applies the sense current to the first node of the differential amplifier. A second translator transistor applies the reference current to the second node of the differential amplifier. A comparator circuit is used to compare the signals at the first and second input nodes of the differential amplifier to provide an output indicative of the state of the sensed memory cell.

1. Field of Invention
The present invention pertains to the field of memory sense amplifiers. More particularly, this invention relates to high-density memory sense amplifiers having a controlled sense voltage and a plurality of resistive elements providing a reference current.
2. Background
In a random access memory (RAM) array, an amplifier is used to sense the state of an addressed memory cell and provide a signal representing the sensed state to the output of the array. This sense amplifier takes different forms, depending on the type of RAM array. In a static random access memory (SRAM) array or dynamic random access memory (DRAM) array, the memory is often volatile, that is, not retaining the data when the array is powered off. Such memories are often complex and require complex sensing circuitry such as steering (decoder) circuits and clocked, current mode amplifiers.
In contrast, a non-volatile memory array, such as a cross-point array, utilizes very simple compact memory cells, such as the cross-point type, concerned with long-term retention, high density and fast access. A non-volatile array may be a write-once type having a fuse or anti-fuse at each cross-point cell, or a multiple read-write variety, such as a magnetic random access memory (MRAM) array having cross-point magnetic cells each capable of changing between two or more states.
A major problem in such high-density resistive memory arrays is the need to isolate a selected memory cell from the unselected cells to obtain accurate sensing of the cell state. The closeness and miniature size of the cells causes a significant problem with xe2x80x9cparasiticxe2x80x9d leakage current from unselected cells that interfere with the current from the selected cell. Moreover, the small sizes of the cells and the conductors result in smaller voltages and currents, resulting in the need for greater preciseness in measuring the currents and voltages to accurately determine the data in the cell.
For example, in MRAM arrays, typically the magnetic state of a selected cell, and therefore the data stored by the cell, is determined by a small difference in current through the selected cell at a row and column junction in the different cell states. Sensing the resistive state of a single memory cell can be unreliable because all memory cell junctions are coupled together through many parallel paths. The resistance sensed for any given memory cell equals the resistance of the sensed memory cell junction in parallel with resistances of the cells at junctions of the other rows and columns. Moreover, small differences inherent in sense amplifiers can lead to small differential voltages applied to a resistive cross point array when attempting to sense a selected memory cell. These small differential voltages can cause parasitic or xe2x80x9csneak pathxe2x80x9d currents that interfere with the sensing of the cell states. Thus, there is a need to isolate each selected cell from the unselected cells to obtain a true read of the cell data.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,256,247 B1 granted to Pemer on Jul. 3, 2001 discloses a read circuit for high-density memory arrays that includes a differential amplifier and two direct injection preamplifiers. The preamplifiers provide xe2x80x9cequi-potentialxe2x80x9d isolation for the unselected cells by applying an equal voltage across input and output nodes of the cells, thus minimizing undesirable currents through unselected cells.
Another problem with high-density resistive memory arrays, such as arrays using MRAM cells, arises because the cell states are not measured by conductance or non-conductance, as in an anti-fuse memory. Rather the MRAM cell state is determined by minute differences in the conductivity of the cell junction causes by the change in resistance with different magnetic states. Thus, it is crucial to provide an accurate xe2x80x9cmirrorxe2x80x9d of the sensed current from the cell to the sense amplifier, as well as to provide a means of measuring the sensed current against a reliable standard to determine the state of the cell.
One approach has been to use a reference memory array in which the memory circuit stores a single bit of information in one memory cell. The data is stored in the memory cell in one state and is compared to a reference cell in a known state. The cell information is read by detecting the difference in resistance between the memory cell and the reference cell. The sense scheme in this approach relies on including a series transistor with each memory cell and reference cell for isolation necessary for reliable sensing of data in the selected memory cells. An obvious disadvantage is that the effective area of a memory array is increased because of the need for series transistors in each reference cell and memory cell An example of this reference memory approach is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,055,178 granted to Naji on Apr. 25, 2000.
Another approach has been to use a pair of cells to store one bit of data. The data is stored in the memory cell in one state and in the other memory cell in the opposite state. The cell information is read by detecting the difference in resistance between the memory junctions of the pair of cells, called the xe2x80x9cbit, bit barxe2x80x9d approach. The output from the cell pairs doubles the signal available for sensing, thus minimizing error. An obvious disadvantage is that the effective capacity of a memory array is cut in half because of the need for two memory cells for each stored bit. An example of this reference memory approach is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,191,989 granted to Luk on Feb. 20, 2001.
Accordingly, a practical circuit is needed for high-density resistive memory arrays to minimize the leakage currents from the unselected cells, such as by minimizing the voltage potential across the junctions of unselected cells. Moreover, there is a need to isolate the selected cell from the unselected cells so that any parasitic currents from unselected cells will not distort the accuracy of the selected cell current. In addition, it is important that slight differences inherent in different sense amplifiers be minimized to avoid distortions of the measured currents. Further, an accurate translation or mirroring of the sensed cell current must be provided to the sense amplifier in order to accurately measure the sensed current against a reference. Finally, an effective means of providing a reference current is needed which will not compromise the effective storage density of the array.
The present invention provides a practical circuit to integrate with a high-density memory. The circuitry of the present invention applies an accurate sense voltage to a selected cell and simultaneously to selected reference cells. It provides circuitry to apply xe2x80x9cequi-potentialxe2x80x9d isolation to minimize the parasitic effects of leakage current from unselected memory cells. It provides a means to isolate the selected cell from the unselected cells. Further, the present invention provides an accurate reference for the sensed current without requiring an entire reference memory array. Moreover, the present invention provides access and sensing of resistive memory cells while maintaining read access times comparable to other high density sensing approaches.
In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, a sense amplifier is provided for reading data in a multiple-state memory cell of a resistive memory array in response to a read voltage applied across the sensed memory cell, including a differential amplifier having first and second input nodes. A sense circuit is provided for determining the current in the memory cell with the read voltage applied thereto and applying a sense current representative of the memory cell current to the first input node of the differential amplifier. A reference circuit is provided having first and second resistive elements for applying a reference current to the second input node of the differential amplifier, the reference current providing a value against which to compare the sense current to determine the state of the memory cell.
The first resistive element has a first resistance representative of a first state of the memory cell, and the second resistive element has a second resistance representative of a second state of the memory cell. A voltage source for applying the read voltage across the first and second resistive elements to generate a reference current by averaging the currents through the first and second resistive elements. A first translator transistor applies the memory cell sense current to the first node of the differential amplifier, and a second translator transistor applies the reference current to the second node of the differential amplifier. A comparator circuit is used to compare the signals at the first and second input nodes of the differential amplifier to provide an output indicative of the state of the sensed memory cell.
Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is a method of reading data in a sensed multiple-state memory cell of a resistive memory array using a differential amplifier. The method comprises generating a current in the memory cell using a read voltage applied thereto and applying a sense current representative of the current in the memory cell current to the first input node of the differential amplifier. A reference current is generated using a reference circuit with first and second resistive elements, and the reference current is applied to the second input node of the differential amplifier, the reference current providing a value against which to compare the sense current to determine the state of the memory cell.
The reference current is generated by generating a first reference current by applying the read voltage across a first reference element having a resistance representative of a first state of the memory cell, and generating a second reference current by applying the read voltage across a second reference element having a resistance representative of a second state of the memory cell.
The first and second reference currents are averaged, and the averaged current is applied to the second input node of a differential amplifier. A supply voltage is applied across a mirror transistor to the first node of the differential amplifier to generate a sense node voltage, and across a reference transistor to the second node of the differential amplifier to generate a reference node voltage. A first voltage is generated at the first node of the differential amplifier representative of the sense current, and a second voltage is generated at the second node representative of the reference current. The first and second voltages on the first and second input nodes of the differential amplifier are compared to provide an output indicative of the state of the sensed memory cell.
Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, which in conjunction with the accompanying drawings illustrates by way of example the principles of the present invention.


Improved reversibly expandable structures are formed from novel loop assemblies comprising a plurality of links, each of said links having at least one center pivot joint and a plurality of end pivot joints, each of at least two of said plurality of end pivot joints proximate to the outer edge of said loop assembly and connected to another link; each of said plurality of links being connected to another one of said plurality of links by at least two end pivot joints thereby forming a link pair, said loop assembly comprising at least three link pairs, each of said at least three link pairs connected to at least two other link pairs through at least one of said end pivot joints; each of said at least three link pairs connected to a central piece that is central to the loop assembly, said central piece being rotatable around a central axis, wherein the rotation of the central piece reversibly expands said loop assembly.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,942,700, 5,024,031, 6,082,056 and 6,219,974, hereby incorporated by reference as if fully disclosed herein, teach methods for constructing reversibly expandable truss-structures in a wide variety of shapes. The teachings therein have been used to build structures for diverse applications including architectural uses, public exhibits and unique folding toys.
Utilizing the teachings of these patents, self-supporting structures that maintain their overall shape as they expand or collapse in a synchronized manner may be constructed. A basic building block of such structures is a "loop-assembly" which consists of three or more scissor units (disclosed in the '700 and '031 patents) or polygon-link pairs (disclosed in the '056 and '974 patents), each consisting of a pair of links that are pinned together at pivots lying near the middle of each link. Such a loop assembly comprises a ring of interconnected links which can freely fold and unfold. However, at the center of such a ring, a space or void is opened up as the ring expands, resulting in lessened structural stability.
It is, therefore, desirable to provide additional stability and structural stability to such a loop assembly while retaining its ability to expand and contract. It is also desirable to provide a central location to provide a means to mechanically drive the entire assembly.
In accordance with the present invention a novel loop assembly is presented that incorporates an additional useful feature. I have discovered a way to provide a link-pair that lies at the center of the assembly. The middle pivot of this central link-pair is located at the center point of the assembly as a whole. Further, this pivot always maintains its location at the center of the loop assembly as it extends and retracts.
Loop assemblies having such central link-pairs are better stabilized and better self-supported than those without such a feature. The movement of structures built from such assemblies are better synchronized. Further, central link-pairs offer a conveniently placed point of control for folding structures. By simply introducing a rotary motion of one such link relative to its paired link, a force is translated in an even, symmetric fashion to the entire assembly, thereby opening and closing it. Thus, a motor may be conveniently attached to one central link and the motor shaft fixed to the paired central link to provide a well-placed, stabilized means to drive the entire assembly.
Further, in addition to such mechanical improvements, such central link-pairs lead to new functional applications, such as the construction of expanding wheels and spreading mechanisms.


A method and an apparatus for detecting a tampered application are provided. The method of detecting a tampered application includes acquiring a package of an application, extracting and installing a first execution code from the acquired package of the application, extracting a second execution code from the package of the application when an execution command of the application is received after the first execution code is installed, and performing a preset operation when the second execution code differs from the first execution code.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for detecting a tampered application. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for detecting a tampered application after installation of an application, and an apparatus thereof.
2. Description of the Related Art
In recent years, as a smart phone is supplied, use of various types of applications have actively increased in the smart phone. The application may be installed by a user or a device provider in a terminal such as a smart phone. The installed application may be executed according to an execution command of a user or other environments after this.
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a procedure of installing and executing an application by a terminal using an Android operating system according to the related art.
Referring to FIG. 1, a MediaHub.apk 105 package is installed in step 140. A signature verification module 110 of the Android operating system verifies a signature of the MediaHub.apk 105 package. After the signature is verified, the terminal stores an optimized execution code 115 extracted from a corresponding application package in step 150. In this case, the optimized executed code may be configured by an odex format.
After configuring the optimized executed code by the odex format, a user 120 inputs an execution command with respect to a Media Hub application 125 in step 160. The execution command with respect to a Media Hub application 125 is transferred to a dalvik virtual machine 130 of Android in step 170. The dalvik virtual machine 130 of the Android loads an execution code 115 of an odex format to execute the Media Hub application 125 in step 180. In the foregoing way, the user may install an application and then execute the application.
Applications of the smart phone provide a convenient function to a user. However, a maliciously tampered application may download unwanted information to the smart phone and damage the phone or applications installed on it. An application providing contents such as music, images, or e-book uses Digital Rights Management (DRM) for protecting copyright. The maliciously tampered application may incapacitate a copyright protection function such as DRM.
To prevent execution of a tampered application in the smart phone, when installing the application, an Android operating system performs a signature verification procedure. However, after the application is installed, when the execution code 115 is tampered, there is a problem that detection of the tampered execution code or execution of the tampered execution code cannot be interrupted.

Method and apparatus for detecting tampered application


A polycarbonate film having a thickness of 0.05 mm to 0.25 mm is formed from a thermoplastic composition that includes a first branched polycarbonate that has a peak melt viscosity of at least 7,000 poise when measured using a parallel plate melt rheology test at a heating rate of 10° C./min at a temperature of between 350° C. to 450° C., a second branched polycarbonate, and a perfluoroalkyl sulfonate salt.

This disclosure relates to thermoplastic materials, and in particular to films used for applications such as electrical and electronic insulation applications.
Polycarbonates are used in the manufacture of articles and components for a wide range of applications, from automotive parts to electronic appliances. Because of their beneficial properties such as transparency and impact resistance, polycarbonates have been widely used in applications where high flammability resistance is important. In some applications like extruded film used for electrical and electronic insulation applications, flammability resistance must be provided at thickness levels substantially below those utilized for most molded thermoplastic articles, as low as 0.05 millimeters (mm). Other properties such as good folding performance, voltage resistance, and heat resistance are also desirable for such applications. Although many polycarbonate compositions can provide beneficial combinations of the aforementioned properties, many known compositions have not been able to achieve desired levels of flammability resistance with very thin polycarbonate materials. There accordingly remains a need in the art for plastic films that provide beneficial combinations of properties for performance in demanding applications such as electrical insulation applications.


The present invention relates to a method and an online game system for providing position information of a game character in an online game, and more particularly, to a method and an online game system for providing position information of a game character in an online game by interworking with a predetermined messenger server.

In a general online game environment, because only one game server processes signals over a wide game area, there are many problems in system ability or signal processing. To solve the problems, various data distribution methods appear and are performed.
A representative one of conventionally introduced data distribution methods is, for example, a method in which a game area is divided into zones according to a standard and an exclusive game server is allocated to the divided zone, thereby inducing data distribution.
In the data distribution process by using the division of zones and the exclusive game server, in case that a character of a client tries to know position information of another character in performing a game, broadcasting is performed on the exclusive game server with respect to at least one zone or present position information of all characters accessing the online game is recorded in a database. In case that a position information query is transmitted, the present position information of the character is searched with reference to the database. Therefore, heavy load is on processing of the game server and also a communication network.
Also, a conventional method of providing position information of a character in an online game remains within showing information of a certain local server that the character accesses but not showing accurate position information of the character accessing the online game. An example of a screen shot of a strategy simulation game whose name is StarCraft of Blizzard among conventional online games is illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of providing character position information in an online game, according to a conventional method. Referring to FIG. 1, a first user inputs ID information of a second user which the first user tries to search in a command input blank 110, an online game server indicates whether the second user logs in the online game and provides to the first user 100. In this case, in case that the second user logs in the online game server, the name of the game server that the second user accesses may be indicated together. According to the method of providing position information in an online game, according to the conventional method, there are provided whether a user to be searched logs in a game server or name information of the game server that the user accesses. However, detailed information, for example, the user is located in which position in the online game, is not provided.
The position information providing method in an online game according to the conventional method is more required in Massively Multi-player Online Role Playing Game (MMORPG) in which a plurality of users access and perform a game than the described strategy simulation game. In conventional MMORPGs, there is no method of providing position information of another character. In conventional MMORPGs, loads on a game server is very heavy due to managing users accessing at the same time, which are general from several thousands to several tens of thousands. Satisfying the requirement of users for providing position information is not easy due to the load of server processing required in searching character position information and the load on a communication network required in providing position information to users.
Also, the conventional position information providing method in an online game has a problem in which a user trying to search position information of another user can not search the position information of the another user in case that the user does not log in the online game. That is, the requirement of the user is not satisfied, in which the user tries to obtain whether another user that the user tries to search accesses the online game or accurate position information of another user in the online game in a stat in which the user does not log in the online game.
Accordingly, it is increased the requirement with respect to an online game method and system which can reduce the load on a game server required in providing position information of a character in an online game, obtain position information of a certain character in a state in which a user does not log in the online game, and provide concrete position information in the online game, including whether the certain character logs in the online game.

Method for providing location information of game character by operating with messenger server and systems thereof


The present invention relates to a playback device, a playback method, a program, and a recording medium that enable 3D playback in accordance with the capabilities of the playback device.

A BD (Blu-Ray (registered trademark) Disc) can handle BD-J (BD Java (registered trademark)), and BD-J can provide a high-performance interactive function (see, for example, PTL 1).
In addition, BD players for playing BD-ROMs have PSRs (Player Setting Registers) that store information concerning playback of BD-ROMs.
As illustrated in FIG. 1, a flag called BD-J Capability during Stereoscopic Output Mode (hereinafter referred to as a BD-J capability flag) is stored in b5 of PSR24 among PSRs. The BD-J capability flag is a flag indicating whether or not it is possible to perform 3D playback upon execution of a BD-J object.
In addition, a BD-ROM has recorded thereon a program including the syntax of FIG. 2. The BD player determines, in accordance with the program, whether or not the value of the PSR24 (PSR_3D_CAPABILITY) is "0x20", that is, whether or not the BD-J capability flag is 1. Then, the BD player performs a playback process in accordance with the BD-J capability flag.
Meanwhile, there are two playback modes for 3D playback which are used for BD-ROMs: one-plane offset mode (1 plane+offset presentation type) and two-plane mode (Stereoscopic (two planes) presentation type). The one-plane offset mode is a mode for performing one-plane offset 3D playback in which one of two images obtained by shifting an image recorded on a BD-ROM in a horizontal direction is output as a left-eye image and the other is output as a right-eye image. The two-plane mode is a mode for performing two-plane 3D playback in which a left-eye image and a right-eye image that are recorded on a BD-ROM are output as they are.

Playback device, playback method, program, and recording medium

Abstract: A storage unit 24 stores a one-plane offset capability flag indicating whether or not 3D playback is possible in a one-plane offset mode, which is a mode in which one of two images obtained by shifting an image recorded on a disc 11 in a horizontal direction is output as a left-eye image and the other is output as a right-eye image, and a two-plane capability flag indicating whether or not 3D playback is possible in a two-plane mode, which is a mode in which a left-eye image and a right-eye image that are recorded on the disc are output as they are. A control unit 22 sets a playback mode for 3D playback in accordance with the one-plane offset capability flag and the two-plane capability flag stored in the storage unit 24. The present invention can be applied to, for example, a playback device.


A mechanism is provided for a circuit for generation of a random output. A bistable circuit has two stable states as an output and a clock signal as an input. The bistable circuit includes a first logic circuit and a second logic circuit cross-coupled connected together, which transition into a metastable state before resolving to the two stable states. The second logic circuit resolves to a stable state at a resolution time. A digitization circuit is configured to generate random bits corresponding to a variance of the resolution time of the second logic circuit resolving from the metastable state to the stable state for cycles of the clock signal. The resolution time randomly varies according to noise. An actual value of the stable state is eliminated as factor in generating the random bits.

Conventional systems in the field of information security recognize the need for random numbers, and in recent years, there is an increasing demand for high-performance random number generators generating true random numbers, natural random numbers that have uniformity (i.e., are identical in probability in value and frequency of appearance) and appear without ordinality, relevance with preceding and following numbers, or predictability. One such random number generator employs a random pulse obtained by utilizing radioactive rays, thermal noise, crystal oscillator fluctuations, and other similar natural phenomena. However, the generation of truly random numbers is not an easy task. Different methods have tried to use metastable events to generate a random output value. They all seem to be less than ideal and tend to manipulate the output to restore randomness if they perceive it not to be present, which in itself is a non-random process.

Generate random numbers using metastability resolution time


1,2-disubstituted heterocyclic compounds which are inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 10 are described. Also described are processes, pharmaceutical compositions, pharmaceutical preparations and pharmaceutical use of the compounds in the treatment of mammals, including human(s) for central nervous system (CNS) disorders and other disorders which may affect CNS function. Among the disorders which may be treated are neurological, neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders including, but not to, those associated with cognitive deficits or schizophrenic symptoms.

Cyclic phosphodiesterases are intracellular enzymes which, through the hydrolysis of cyclic nucleotides cAMP and cGMP, regulate the levels of these mono phosphate nucleotides which serve as second messengers in the signaling cascade of G-protein coupled receptors. In neurons, PDEs also play a role in the regulation of downstream cGMP and cAMP dependent kinases which phosphorylate proteins involved in the regulation of synaptic transmission and homeostasis. To date, eleven different PDE families have been identified which are encoded by 21 genes. The PDEs contain a variable N-terminal regulatory domain and a highly conserved C-terminal catalytic domain and differ in their substrate specificity, expression and localization in cellular and tissue compartments, including the CNS.
The discovery of a new PDE family, PDE10, was reported simultaneously by three groups in 1999 (Soderling et al. "Isolation and characterization of a dual-substrate phosphodiesterase gene family: PDE10A" Proc. Natl. Sci. 1999, 96, 7071-7076; Loughney et al. "Isolation and characterization of PDE10A, a novel human 3′, 5′-cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase" Gene 1999, 234, 109-117; Fujishige et al. "Cloning and characterization of a novel human phosphodiesterase that hydrolyzes both cAMP and cGMP (PDE10A)" J. Biol. Chem. 1999, 274, 18438-18445). The human PDE10 sequence is highly homologous to both the rat and mouse variants with 95% amino acid identity overall, and 98% identity conserved in the catalytic region.
PDE10 is primarily expressed in the brain (caudate nucleus and putamen) and is highly localized in the medium spiny neurons of the striatum, which is one of the principal inputs to the basal ganglia. This localization of PDE10 has led to speculation that it may influence the dopaminergic and glutamatergic pathways both which play roles in the pathology of various psychotic and neurodegenerative disorders.
PDE10 hydrolyzes both cAMP (Km=0.05 uM) and cGMP (Km=3 uM) (Soderling et al. "Isolation and Characterization of a dual-substrate phosphodiesterase gene family: PDE10." Proc. Natl. USA 1999, 96(12), 7071-7076). In addition, PDE10 has a five-fold greater Vmax for cGMP than for cAMP and these in vitro kinetic data have lead to the speculation that PDE10 may act as a cAMP-inhibited cGMP phosphodiesterase in vivo (Soderling and Beavo "Regulation of cAMP and cGMP signaling: New phosphodiesterases and new functions," Curr. Opin. Cell Biol., 2000, 12, 174-179).
PDE10 is also one of five phosphodiesterase members to contain a tandem GAF domain at their N-terminus. It is differentiated by the fact that the other GAF containing PDEs (PDF2, 5, 6, and 11) bind cGMP while recent data points to the tight binding of cAMP to the GAF domain of PDE10 (Handa et al. "Crystal structure of the GAF-B domain from human phosphodiesterase 10A complexed with its ligand, cAMP" J. Biol. Chem. 2008, May 13th, ePub).
PDE10 inhibitors have been disclosed for the treatment of a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, Huntington's disease, delusional disorders, drug-induced psychoses, obsessive compulsive and panic disorders (US Patent Application 2003/0032579). Studies in rats (Kostowski et. al "Papaverine drug induced stereotypy and catalepsy and biogenic amines in the brain of the rat" Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 1976, 5, 15-17) have showed that papaverine, a selective PDE10 inhibitor, reduces apomorphine induced stereotypies and rat brain dopamine levels and increases haloperidol induced catalepsy. This experiment lends support to the use of a PDE10 inhibitor as an antipsychotic since similar trends are seen with known, marketed antipsychotics.
Antipsychotic medications are the mainstay of current treatment for schizophrenia. Conventional or classic antipsychotics, typified by haloperidol, were introduced in the mid-1950s and have a proven track record over the last half century in the treatment of schizophrenia. While these drugs are effective against the positive, psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia, they show little benefit in alleviating negative symptoms or the cognitive impairment associated with the disease. In addition, drugs such as haloperidol have extreme side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) due to their specific dopamine D2 receptor interaction. An even more severe condition characterized by significant, prolonged, abnormal motor movements known as tardive dyskinesia also may emerge with prolonged classic antipsychotic treatment.
The 1990s saw the development of several new drugs for schizophrenia, referred to as atypical antipsychotics, typified by risperidone and olanzapine and most effectively, clozapine. These atypical antipsychotics are generally characterized by effectiveness against both the positive and negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia, but have little effectiveness against cognitive deficiencies and persisting cognitive impairment remain a serious public health concern (Davis, J. M et al. "Dose response and dose equivalence of antipsychotics." Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 2004, 24 (2), 192-208; Friedman, J. H. et al "Treatment of psychosis in Parkinson's disease: Safety considerations." Drug Safety, 2003, 26 (9), 643-659). In addition, the atypical antipsychotic agents, while effective in treating the positive and, to some degree, negative symptoms of schizophrenia, have significant side effects. For example, clozapine which is one of the most clinically effective antipsychotic drugs shows agranulocytosis in approximately 1.5% of patients with fatalities due to this side effect being observed. Other atypical antipsychotic drugs have significant side effects including metabolic side effects (type 2 diabetes, significant weight gain, and dystipidemia), sexual dysfunction, sedation, and potential cardiovascular side effects that compromise their clinically effectiveness. In the large, recently published NIH sponsored CATIE study, (Lieberman et al "The Clinical Antipsychotic Trials Of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) Schizophrenia Trial: clinical comparison of subgroups with and without the metabolic syndrome." Schizophrenia Research, 2095, 80 (1), 9-43) 74% of patients discontinued use of their antipsychotic medication within 18 months due to a number of factors including poor tolerability or incomplete efficacy. Therefore, a substantial clinical need still exists for more effective and better tolerated antipsychotic mediations possibly through the use of PDE10 inhibitors.


The invention provides a method for correcting thermally-induced field deformations of a lithographically exposed substrate. First, a model is provided to predict thermally-induced field deformation information of a plurality of fields of the substrate. The pre-specified exposure information used to configure an exposure of the fields is then modified based on the thermally-induced deformation information as predicted by the model. Finally a pattern is exposed onto the fields in accordance with the pre-specified exposure information as modified. The predicting of thermally-induced field deformation information by the model includes predicting of deformation effects of selected points on the substrate. It is based on a time-decaying characteristic as energy is transported across substrate; and a distance between the selected points and an edge of the substrate.

A lithographic apparatus is a machine that applies a desired pattern onto a substrate, usually onto a target portion of the substrate. A lithographic apparatus can be used, for example, in the manufacture of integrated circuits (ICs). In that instance, a patterning device, which is alternatively referred to as a mask or a reticle, may be used to generate a circuit pattern to be formed on an individual layer of the IC. This pattern can be transferred onto a target portion (e.g. comprising part of, one, or several dies) on a substrate (e.g. a silicon wafer). Transfer of the pattern is typically via imaging onto a layer of radiation-sensitive material (resist) provided on the substrate. In general, a single substrate will contain a network of adjacent target portions that are successively patterned. Known lithographic apparatus include so-called steppers, in which each target portion is irradiated by exposing an entire pattern onto the target portion at one time, and so-called scanners, in which each target portion is irradiated by scanning the pattern through a radiation beam in a given direction (the "scanning"-direction) while synchronously scanning the substrate parallel or anti-parallel to this direction. It is also possible to transfer the pattern from the patterning device to the substrate by imprinting the pattern onto the substrate.
The demand for smaller and smaller semiconductor devices drives the need to have lithographic fabrication processes achieve pattern features and profiles having smaller critical dimensions. Moreover, such devices may comprise multiple layers, requiring precise positioning of successive layers over one or more prior layers. It is important that these smaller devices are consistently reproduced with as little overlay errors as possible to yield high-quality devices.
During a lithographic fabrication process, there are, however, numerous activities that contribute to overlay errors and compromise the quality of the exposed patterns. In particular, an exposed substrate is subject to thermal energy. In case of an optical lithographic apparatus the thermal energy substrate heating may result in deformations of a field on the substrate under exposure. In an immersion lithographic apparatus the substrate deformation is caused by immersion liquid evaporation that induces deformations of each field. Such thermally-induced deformations may result in unacceptable overlay and focusing errors and significantly reduce yield production.

Method and arrangement for correcting thermally-induced field deformations of a lithographically exposed substrate