An apparatus, system, and method efficiently manage reverse link resources by allowing a mobile station to select between transmitting a payload at a standard power level and transmitting a smaller payload at a boosted power level. The mobile station, therefore, can autonomously select a QoS (Quality of Service) level for physical layer packets. Based on reverse link transmission information received from a base station, the mobile station derives a reverse link transmission guideline defining the power levels and associated payloads for at least a standard service and boosted service. The mobile station selects a reverse link transmission power level from a plurality of power levels including at least a standard reverse link transmission power level associated with a standard payload size and a boosted reverse link transmission power level associated with a boosted payload size where the standard payload size is greater than the boosted payload size.

The invention relates in general to communication systems and more specifically to an apparatus, system, and method for managing reverse link resources in a communication system.
Many wireless communication systems employ geographically distributed base stations to provide communication cells or regions where a serving base station provides communication service to mobile stations within the region corresponding to the serving base station. In certain situations, the reverse link signals transmitted from each mobile station to a base station interfere with other reverse link signals transmitted from other mobile stations. Because of the interference and limited resources, the capacity of each base station is limited and many systems manage reverse link resources in order to improve overall performance of the communication system. One method of controlling the reverse link resources includes limiting the transmitted energy of the mobile stations. Some conventional systems incorporate a retransmission mechanism allowing information to be accurately reconstructed and received at the base stations. By limiting the transmission power level to a relatively low power level, reverse link resources are efficiently used while retransmissions allow the accurate reconstruction of transmitted information. A retransmission scheme results in an increased system capacity for time varying channels since an early termination of the retransmission scheme occurs when a good channel is utilized. Conventional systems, however, are limited in that the retransmissions result in increased transmission latency on the reverse link channels. The resource management techniques of conventional systems allow a mobile station to transmit a reverse link signal at higher relative transmission power levels where payload sizes are larger. For relatively smaller payloads, however, the mobile station is required to transmit at generally lower relative power levels resulting in approximately the same average latency times for all payload sizes.
Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus, system, and method for efficiently managing reverse link resources in a communication system based on latency considerations.

Apparatus, system, and method for managing reverse link communication


Biocompatible polymeric complexes having utility in many fields including medical applications, as well as personal and health care, are provided and can be affixed to a variety of substrate materials which themselves may or may not also be biocompatible. The complexes of this invention are comprised of a carboxylic acid polymer with either a poly(lower-alkylene oxide) or a poly(N-vinyl lactam). Moreover, a complex of an antimicrobial agent such as iodine can be formed with the complex to provide antimicrobial activity. The complexes are also useful for forming biocompatible coatings on medical devices, some of which can render the surface lubricious when exposed to aqueous or body fluids.

1) Field of the Invention
This invention relates in general to biocompatible hydrophilic polymeric complexes. In one aspect this invention relates to biocompatible hydrophilic polymeric complexes which can be affixed to numerous substrates and therefore render them particularly useful for a variety of applications, particularly in the medical device, personal care, and health care fields. In a further aspect, the invention is directed to coated substrate materials wherein the substrate material may not itself be biocompatible, but since it possesses desirable physical and other properties, when coated with the polymeric complex it is then ideally suited for use in areas where biocompatibility is desired. In a still further aspect, this invention is directed to combinations of the complexes with biologically active agents, such as antimicrobial agents as well as to processes for their preparation.
2) Description of the Related Art
For many applications it is desirable to have a hydrophilic polymeric surface which is biocompatible with the animal and human body. However, many polymeric surfaces due to their chemical composition or method of preparation are not compatible with the body and hence they are not suitable for use in fields such as medical devices, personal care, health care, pharmaceuticals, and other areas of interest.
In addition, it is desirable that the hydrophilic polymer be firmly attached to the substrate such that it exhibits good abrasion resistance. Historically, techniques used to attach a polymer to a substrate include chemical treatment such as chemical cross-linking or exposure to a high energy radiation source, such as an electron beam machine. These methods are not usually desirable. A highly cross-linked composition prepared by any one of these techniques can often result in a different chemical composition from that of the parent polymer and therefore, such polymers might have a potentially different biological behavior. Furthermore, high-energy cross-linking often leads to polymer degradation and discoloration. Thus, the conventional cross-linking techniques are not particularly suited for preparing a polymeric coating from a biocompatible material since there is no assurance that the final coating will still possess the desired biocompatibility, physical properties, or both.
Of the many known natural and synthetic polymeric hydrophilic systems, two polymeric compounds are particularly noted for their biocompatibility and have found wide acceptance in a variety of areas where such biocompatibility is desired. One such known polymeric compound, poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), has an exceptionally low animal oral toxicity and a high parental lethal dose (LD.sub.50) and accordingly, has found extensive application in the pharmaceutical industry. For example, the United States Pharmacopeia, 22nd Revision, Jan. 1, 1990, discloses on page 1118 the product Povidone, which is a linear synthetic polymer consisting of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone). It is indicated that this polymer when complexed with iodine is useful as an ointment and as a topical anti-infective aerosol solution.
The biocompatibility of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) is also mentioned in an article "Acetylene Derived Polymers", by S. C. Johnson, Comestics and Toiletries, Vol. 99, Jun. 14, 1984, pp 77-81.
A second well known class of polymeric compounds which are characterized by excellent biocompatibility with animals and humans, are the poly(ethylene oxides), particularly the high molecular weight ethylene oxide polymers. The biocompatibility of poly(ethylene oxide) with blood has been studied and reported in several journals, such as, for example, an article by George, J. N., Direct Assessment of Platelet Adhesion to Glass; study of the forces of interaction and the effects of plasma and serum factors, platelet function and modification of the glass surface, Blood, 40, 862, 1972.
Other articles include, Wasiewski, W., Rasio, M. J., Martin, B. M., Detwiler, J. C., and Fenton, J. W., Thrombin Absorption to Surfaces and prevention with PEG 6000, Thromb. Res., 8, 881, 1976, and S. W. Kim and J. feijen, "Critical Reviews in Biocompatibility", D. F. Williams, Editor, CRC Press, Inc., Boca Raton, Fla., Vol 1, issue 3, pp 229-260.
However, even though both poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) and poly(ethylene oxide) have excellent biocompatible properties with the human body, they do not readily adhere to substrates which might find application in the medical, personal care, health care, or pharmaceutical fields. Accordingly, prior to the present invention, substrates which are not normally biocompatible were rarely utilized in areas involving the human body even though they may possess desirable features of strength and mass which would otherwise render them suitable for such purposes.
A poly(lower-alkylene oxide) or a poly(N-vinyl lactam), such as poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), can be immobilized through complexation with a carboxylic acid-containing polymer on the surface of a variety of substrates forming an abrasion resistance, biocompatible coating. In some instances, the coatings also offer a high degree of lubricity in aqueous and body fluids such as blood. Since the complexes are formed through a relatively weak hydrogen bond or dipole-dipole interactions, the chemical compositions and properties of the parent polymer are largely preserved. Hence, the disadvantages of chemical cross-linking and other methods mentioned above are largely avoided. These biocompatible surfaces can be further formulated with additives, such as antimicrobial agents, to yield novel coated substrates having antimicrobial properties.
Accordingly, one or more of the following objects will be achieved by the practice of this invention. It is an object of this invention to provide biocompatible, polymeric abrasion resistant surfaces. Another object is to provide substrates coated with the polymeric complexes so that the outer exposed surface is biocompatible with its surrounding environment. A further object of this invention is to provide substrate materials, such as medical devices having a coating of a polymeric compound which is biocompatible. A further object is to provide substrates coated with the polymeric complexes and which contain additives such as antimicrobial agents and other pharmaceutically effective agents. A still further object of this invention is to provide processes for the preparation of the coated substrates. Another object is to provide medical and other devices and instruments which have a coating of a biocompatible material which becomes lubricious upon exposure to body fluids. These and other objects will readily become apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the teachings herein set forth.

Biocompatible hydrophilic complexes and process for preparation and use

Union Carbide Chemicals & Plastics Technology Corporation


There is a method and system for a bidirectional firewall in computer communications, which utilizes the transfer of information from an optical display to a separate server thereby eliminating unauthorized entry into the server and prohibiting access to the stored information. This may include a computer communication system for the transmission or receiving of data, or both, which system comprises, data processor server computer; a terminal for the computer; a data processor connected to the computer; a display monitor to display data from the terminal; and an optical scanner to receive or transmit data from the data processor to the display monitor. The optical scanner is constructed and arranged to create an electronic security gap between the display monitor and the data processor and computer.

Current technologies to create firewalls for security purposes in the transmission of data using computers has been through the use of sophisticated software programs utilizing encryption techniques. These techniques have been circumvented by numerous techniques and programs that allow hackers to enter a server and access mainframe and peripheral data storage.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved system and associated method to prevent unauthorized access to information transmitted and received in computer and internet systems.
Another object of the present invention is to provide such a system and method to prevent unauthorized access to information, and in which optical means are used as an electronic gap in data transmission.

System and method for optical security firewalls in computer communication systems


The present disclosure provides generally for providing behavioral insights across individuals and groups and presenting this information in a clear, actionable, and reliable way. The method and system may efficiently and effectively assess individuals and groups using a variety of factors, such as with psychometric assessments. Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for providing dynamic behavioral insights for individuals and groups.

Psychometrics were developed as a method for measuring psychological attributes or abilities, typically through an assessment. The study of psychometrics includes the study of the statistical, mathematical, and professional protocols that underpin any assessment used and how any assessment is constructed, used, and evaluated.
Some of the very first instances of mental testing started in ancient China, where proficiency assessments were used to grade, rank, and place personnel. These early assessments were a mix of skill, intelligence, and endurance testing, often requiring a candidate to attend testing for a full day and night. At the time, these exams had incredibly low passage rates, with a stated goal of only finding the best personnel for public official positions.
In the 13th century, European universities gave students formal oral testing, with written examinations starting in the 16th century. By the beginning of the 19th century, competitive university examinations were instituted. As social mobility increased, society relied more on other forms of assessments to determine who was appropriate for certain roles, such as in the government. This switch from personal judgment or word of mouth to something more impartial helped streamline application processes and vetting for whether a person was fit for a position or role in a group. This led to an academic interest in human variation and measurement-based psychology.
The interest in measuring behavioral capacity and mental capabilities has expanded to determining who might be appropriate when building a team within an organization. A version of a psychometric assessment might be useful when determining a culture fit or how to best optimize the makeup of a team. For example, these assessments may vary and test for aptitude, ability, or personality. Employers may use these at any phase of an employee's life cycle within a company, from onboarding, determining fit, and future potential, such as for a promotion or working in a different department or specialty.
One particular focus of psychometrics is providing objective and impersonal assessments for individuals or groups to be compared without unconscious bias. Despite the advancements made standardizing and optimizing assessments within an organization, there is always room for increased efficiency when implementing or reviewing psychometric assessments.

Systems and methods for dynamically providing and developing behavioral insights for individuals and groups


The invention relates to a derivative of a GLP-1 analogue, which analogue comprises a first K residue at a position corresponding to position 37 of GLP-1(7-37) (SEQ ID NO: 1), a second K residue at a position corresponding to position 26 of GLP-1(7-37), and a maximum of ten amino acid modifications as compared to GLP-1(7-37), wherein the first K residue is designated K37, and the second K residue is designated K26, which derivative comprises two albumin binding moieties attached to K26 and K37, respectively, wherein the albumin binding moiety comprises a protracting moiety selected from:

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (2000), vol. 43, no. 9, p. 1664-669 discloses derivatives of GLP-1(7-37) that are double-acylated at K26,34—see Table 1.
WO 98/08871 discloses a number of GLP-1 derivatives including some that are double-acylated at K26,34, see Examples 3, 7, 17, 24, 32, 33, and 36. Liraglutide, a mono-acylated GLP-1 derivative for once daily administration which is marketed as of 2009 by Novo Nordisk NS, is also disclosed in WO 98/08871 (Example 37).
WO 99/43706 discloses a number of mono-and double-acylated GLP-1 derivatives including some K26,37 derivatives (see p. 148-178).
WO 2005/027978 discloses a number of GLP-1 derivatives including a few that are double-acylated at one and the same residue, K37, see Examples 8 and 9.
WO 2009/030738 discloses a number of GLP-1 derivatives including one double-acylated at K31, Dap34, see Example 37.
Journal of Controlled Release (2010), vol. 144, p. 10-16 relates to acylated exendin-4 analogs and discloses, among others, a double-acylated exendin-4 (K12,27-diLUA-Exendin-4) is disclosed (LUA is lauric acid, C12).
WO 06/097537 discloses a number of GLP-1 derivatives including semaglutide (Example 4), a mono-acylated GLP-1 derivative for once weekly administration which is under development by Novo Nordisk A/S.
Angewandte Chemie International Edition 2008, vol. 47, p. 3196-3201 reports the discovery and characterisation of a class of 4-(p-iodophenyl)butyric acid derivatives which purportedly display a stable noncovalent binding interaction with both mouse serum albumin (MSA) and human serum albumin (HSA).

Abstract: Chem. 1, Chem. 2, Chem. 3 or Chem. 4; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, amide, or ester thereof.


A retractor suction catheter used during surgery is provided. The suction catheter may include a flexible tube having an open end and a closed end. The open end may include a fitting. The tube may further include a plurality of slits in between the open end and the closed end. The tube may fit through a subject's oral cavity and out of the mouth. The tube may retract the soft palate so that the surgeon may perform the proper surgery. Further, a vacuum may be attached to the fitting, and therefore liquids, fumes and debris may be removed through the apertures.

The present invention relates to a suction catheter and, more particularly, to a suction catheter that retracts the soft palate.
In medicine, a catheter is a thin tube extruded from medical grade materials serving a broad range of functions. Catheters are medical devices that can be inserted in the body to treat diseases or perform a surgical procedure. By modifying the material or adjusting the way catheters are manufactured, it is possible to tailor catheters for cardiovascular, urological, gastrointestinal, neurovascular, otolaryngic and ophthalmic applications
Catheters can be inserted into a body cavity, duct, or vessel. Functionally, they allow drainage, administration of fluids or gases, access by surgical instruments, and also perform a wide variety of other tasks depending on the type of catheter. The process of inserting a catheter is catheterization. In most uses, catheter is a thin, flexible tube though catheters are available in varying levels of stiffness depending on the application.
When performing procedures on the back of the nose, nasopharynx and/or oral cavity through the mouth, it is necessary to hold back the soft palate to prevent the soft palate from blocking the working area. Further, it is advantageous to remove fluid, smoke or vapor produced during the procedure to visualize the surgical site. The current practice during surgeries such as Tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies is to use a small red rubber catheter through the nose and out of the mouth. The catheter is then tied to itself or held with a clamp. Then a second person usually must suction the fluids, vapors and/or smoke with a separate suction device interfering with visualization of the operating field. Using two devices in a small operating area is awkward and blocks visualization in the working area.
As can be seen, there is a need for an improved catheter used to perform the surgeries listed above.


A refrigerator includes a cabinet that defines a refrigerating compartment and a freezing compartment, a door configured to open and close at least a portion of the freezing compartment, an ice maker located adjacent to a rear surface of the door and configured to supply water to make ice automatically, to provide ice to an ice tray, and to transfer ice automatically, a cabinet duct located above the freezing compartment and configured to supply cold air to the freezing compartment or to the ice maker, an ice cover that is located above the ice maker and that includes a cover inflow hole configured to receive cold air located at a position that faces an outlet of the cabinet duct, and a supply duct that connects the cover inflow hole to the ice maker and that defines a cold air supply passage to an interior area of the ice maker.

The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.
Refrigerators are home appliances for storing foods at a low temperature. Such a refrigerator includes one or all of a refrigerating compartment for storing food in a refrigerated state and a freezing compartment for storing food in a frozen state.
Also, in recent years, a dispenser may be mounted on a front surface of a door of the refrigerator. Thus, drinking water may be dispensed through the dispenser without opening the refrigerator door.
In addition, an ice maker (an ice making device) for making ice to store the made ice may be disposed on the refrigerator door or in the storage compartment. Thus, the ice may be dispensed through the dispenser.
An automatic ice maker for detecting an amount of stored ice to perform water supply, ice making, and ice transfer is being developed as the ice maker. The ice stored in the automatic ice maker is dispensed to the outside through a dispenser.
In recent years, since a large amount of ice is used, a refrigerator having an improved structure of an ice maker itself so that an ice bin, in which made ice is stored, largely increases in capacity, or ice is more quickly made.
Representatively, a refrigerator having a grill structure in which a top surface of a cover is inclined toward an ice tray to more smoothly introduce cold air to an upper side of the ice tray is disclosed in Korean Patent Registration No. 10-0809749.
However, in the above-described structure, the cold air may be lost to the outside or a lower side of the tray while the cold air flows to the top surface of the ice tray.
In addition, a structure in which the introduced cold air is circulated on the top surface of the ice tray may not be provided to deteriorate heat-exchange efficiency with water of the ice tray.
In addition, the cold may be introduced toward the ice bin by passing through the ice tray. As a result, the stored ice may be frozen with each other due to the vaporization on a surface of the stored ice.


The peptide production method of the present invention produces a peptide (SEQ ID NO: 1) of a protein from Plasmodium falciparum, which is effective as a malaria vaccine. The method produces the peptide of SEQ ID NO: 1 by linking the fragments (i) through (v) shown below:                (v) Asn-Asn-Asp-Xaa (SEQ ID NO: 2);        (iv) Asp-Phe-Lys-Thr-Pro (SEQ ID NO: 3);        (iii) Asn-Lys-Thr-Tyr-Asp-Leu (SEQ ID NO: 4);        (ii) Phe-Tyr-Asn-Ser-Glu (SEQ ID NO: 5); and        (i) Xaa-Ala-Ser-Glu (SEQ ID NO: 6),where ‘Xaa’ in (i) and (v) represents zero or any arbitrary number of amino acid residues.

(1) Present Status of Malaria and Other Infections
In spite of the optimistic prospective of overcoming various infections, the global transportation of people and products, the development-inducing global environmental change, and the drastic change of various social activities have significantly and rather adversely changed the circumstances surrounding the infections. For example, the popularity of overseas travels and the destruction of rainforests induce tropical diseases, and the heavy use and the abuse of anti-infectives lead to the appearance of drug-resistant viruses and bacteria.
Among the variety of infections, especially the actions against malaria as a tropical protozoal infection are slow and insufficient. The number of malaria patients amounts to approximately 300 to 500 millions per year including 1.5 to 2.7 million deaths (see WHO report, 1999). Among four human-infecting protozoa species, Plasmodium falciparum is most severe and deadly. Malaria has the massive impact on the human health and also causes the economic recession and social instability in African states.
It is often pointed out that the destruction of rainforests and the global warming have contribution to the increasing number of malaria patients. According to the reports of the International Panel on Climate Change (1996 and 1998), a potential increase of 50 to 80 million new malaria patients would be predicted by a temperature rise of 2° C. by the global warming. With the wide spread of overseas travels, the number of malaria-(imported malaria-) infected individuals in Japan has an increasing tendency to 120 to 150 patients per year from 50 to 70 patients per year in 1980s.
(2) Prior Arts and Their Problems
Many of currently used malaria medications include the patent loyalties and are thus rather expensive. This interferes with the widespread of the malaria medication in the developing countries. There are some inexpensive malaria drugs like chloroquine. The limitless use of these popular drugs leads to the high degree of drug resistance.
There are many malaria-related issues to be solved. The domestic and international pharmaceutical industries have not actively been involved in development of therapeutic and preventive medicines for malaria. The target of their research and development is focused on the age-related disorders and diseases, which have the greater importance for the developed countries. Another reason for their sluggish attitude is a relatively small market of the products for the developing countries. The existing companies may thus not be sufficiently reliable for development of novel antimalarial pharmaceutical substances. There is a need of commercially production and distribution of effective but inexpensive therapeutic, preventive, and inspective medicines for malaria.
The compound "mefloquine" developed during the Vietnam War is the most commonly used antimalarial drug at present. The newer antimalarial drug is Malarone approved in the US in 2000. This is, however, only the diversion of a known substance to the therapeutic medicine for malaria. The latest study has proposed an inexpensive synthetic compound OZ227 having the similar action mechanism to that of a known natural therapeutic agent 'artemisinin' (see Non-Patent Reference 1).
The conventional anti-Plasmodium falciparum drugs, however, generally have severe side effects including headache and nausea. Administration of such medicines for the preventive purpose is thus not generally recommendable. Some of the conventional antimalarial substances, for example, quinine and chloroquine, are deleterious. Peptide vaccines mainly composed of amino acids, on the other hand, exert only desired preventive immunological effects, while being less poisonous and deleterious than the conventional antimalarial substances.
The disadvantage of the peptide vaccine is the potentially different preventive immunological effects among different individuals. The prevalence rate of malaria is high in the epidemic regions. The simple reduction in the risk of malaria development is thus expected to have sufficient contribution to the decrease in the number of sufferers and the number of deaths.
Over many years, the inventors of the present invention have been occupied in development of peptide vaccines, based on the epidemiologic study in the epidemic regions in combination with the molecular analyses in the laboratory scale. As the result of the extensive studies, the inventors have found that enolase, which is a glycolytic enzyme produced from the Plasmodium falciparum-infected human, functions as a protective immune molecule against malaria and have developed peptide vaccines by taking advantage of such finding.
For example, the inventors noted and examined a partial amino acid sequence of enolase from Plasmodium falciparum shown in SEQ ID NO: 12.
A small amount (several milligram level) of a peptide including this partial amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 12) was synthesized and was used as an artificial antigen. The use of this artificial antigen induced an immunological response to Plasmodium falciparum, enabled diagnosis of the immunological state of malaria infection (immunological inspection), and derivatively produced an immunological antigen for inhibiting the proliferation of Plasmodium falciparum. These research results are reported in Patent Reference 1, together with the research results on synthetic peptides comprising other partial amino acid sequences of enolase protein from Plasmodium falciparum.
The peptide vaccine is conventionally produced by the solid-phase synthesis or by the genetic recombination. Neither the solid-phase synthesis technique nor the genetic recombination technique requires the specific skill or experience for producing any sequences. The solid-phase synthesis technique, however, generally has a lower synthesis yield for a longer chain substance and gives a relatively poor yield of a final product after purification. The genetic recombination technique also generally gives a poor yield of a final product.
The laboratory scale synthesis of the peptide including the partial amino acid sequence of enolase from Plasmodium falciparum (SEQ ID NO: 12) by the solid-phase synthesis technique gives a yield of only several hundred micrograms to several milligrams. The synthesis of the peptide by the genetic recombination technique with culture of Eschelichia coli in a relatively large (laboratory scale) 2-liter vessel gives a yield of only 1 to 2 milligrams (as the vaccine for only one person). Even the genetic recombination with an industrially largest-level 1000-liter vessel gives a yield of only 500 to 1000 milligrams (as the vaccine for about 500 people).
Another conventionally known technique potentially applicable for synthesis of the partial peptide (SEQ ID NO: 12) is fragment condensation. In this case, synthesis of a fragment having a glutamic acid residue at the terminal is the most important issue to be solved. Introduction of trichloroethyl ester group or another optional ester group into N-α-protected-L-glutamic-γ-benzyl ester is essential for obtaining a synthesis intermediate N-α-t-butoxycarbonyl-L-glutamic-γ-benzyl ester-α-trichloroethyl ester described later in Examples and other optional synthesis intermediates N-α-protected-L-glutamic-γ-benzyl ester-α-protected esters. According to Non-Patent Reference 2, esterification of N-α-protected-L-glutamic-γ-benzyl ester for the purpose of protecting the α-site carboxylic acid group has a high potential for racemization. It is thus believed in the art that N-α-protected-L-glutamic-γ-benzyl ester is not suitable for the synthesis of a peptide. There has been no synthesis tried after the report of the Non-Patent Reference 2.
The synthesis of the partial peptide (SEQ ID NO: 12) by the conventional fragment condensation technique in consideration of the potential racemization requires large fragments having at least 14 residues. The desired size of each fragment is generally 5 to 7 residues at the maximum for the good yields of synthesis and purification. Namely the conventional fragment condensation technique is not adequate for the efficient large-scale synthesis of the peptide.
As used herein: Patent Reference 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open Gazette No. 2002-371098; Non-Patent Reference 1: pages 900-903, vol. 430, 2004, Nature; and Non-Patent Reference 2: pages 1962-1965, vol. 47, 1982, Journal of Organic Chemistry.

Method of producing partial peptide of enolase protein from

National University Corporation Gunma University


Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a metal mask for an integrated circuit chip interconnect solder bump. The invention deposits a very thick photoresist on both sides of a very thick molybdenum foil sheet (the molybdenum sheet is at least 8 mils thick and the photoresist is at least 5 microns thick). Then the process exposes and develops the photoresist to produce at least one opening having a diameter of at least 5 mil. The invention simultaneously etches both sides of the molybdenum foil using a very low etchant spray pressure of approximately 5 psi to form at least one via in the molybdenum foil that has a diameter of at least 12 mil and a knife-edge of 0.2 mil. The photoresist is removed after the etching process.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to masks used to form interconnect solder bumps on integrated circuit chips and more particularly to an improved methodology that allows the mask images or openings to be made larger than could be made previously.
2. Description of the Related Art
During the manufacturing of integrated circuit chips, it is often necessary to form solder bumps to form interconnections to allow external devices to connect to the chip. Conventionally, various masks were used to deposit the conductive material to form the interconnect solder balls. However, for certain applications, these conventional processes have been shown to be inadequate for formation of the required mask image sizes. Therefore, the invention described below presents a new methodology of forming the masks that allows the mask openings to be made much larger than could have been made conventionally.

International Businss Machines Corporation


An integrated circuit includes a string of substantially similarly-shaped resistive cells, each cell having a first resistive portion and a second resistive portion, the string having an overall orientation and at least one cell, preferably substantially all cells, and more preferably all cells have their respective centerlines oriented at non-orthogonal angles, preferably about 45 degrees, relative to the overall orientation. The cells are contiguous such that a resistor is formed by the first resistive portion of one cell and the second resistive portion of an adjacent cell. The cells preferably have a substantially hexagonal shape and are arranged into substrings. If the string includes a folding point, substrings immediately adjacent to the folding point should include an odd number, preferably three, of cells, and substrings not adjacent to the folding point should comprise an even number, preferably two, of cells. Preferably, the hexagonally shaped cells include two longer sides and four shorter sides, each cell having a tap substantially centrally positioned along one of its longer sides, a resistor being formed between the taps of any two adjacent cells. The taps are preferably arranged to form a grid such that each tap is aligned with at least one other tap substantially parallel to the overall orientation and each tap is aligned with at least one other tap substantially perpendicular to the overall orientation. A converter, such as a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) or an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) includes such a resistor string.

Typically a DAC or ADC will require equal resistances for each resistor in a string. Other applications may require a string of resistors wherein the resistance values of the resistors are related, but not necessarily equal. For example, a string having uniform voltage per unit length can be implemented wherein the smallest possible resistance value equals n, and each of the resistors in the string can have a resistance value equal to a multiple of n. A resistor string according to the invention is especially suited for these applications.
DACs are used to convert a digitally coded signal to an analog signal, or in conjunction with successive approximation circuitry as part of an analog-to-digital converter. DACs convert a digitally coded signal to an analog signal, typically a voltage, that correspond, to the digitally coded signal. The analog signal can take on many different values over a predetermined range corresponding to the range of digitally coded signals.
DACs may employ a resistor string comprised of series coupled equal resistance resistors. Between contiguous resistors in the resistor string, as well as between the resistor string and an energy source energizing the resistor string, are intermediate taps. Switches, coupled between an output node and intermediate taps, when turned on, electrically couple the respective intermediate taps to the output node, and when turned off, isolate the intermediate taps from the output node.
The precision with which resistors are formed affects the precision of the resulting analog signal. A critical goal in the design of resistor strings is to reduce the amount of area required for the resistor string. Typically, the resistor string is the bulkiest part of the converter design from a silicon die area perspective. Direction reversals, or folding points, are typically employed to confine the resistor string to a limited area. Another goal is to be able to fabricate a resistor string demonstrating linearity, wherein, for example, each resistor has the same resistance. This goal is particularly elusive when folding points are incorporated into the string. Specifically, it is difficult to design a compact resistor string where the resistors near the folding points exhibit substantially identical resistance to resistors away from the folding points. Gross e, al., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,862, incorporated herein by reference, describe one approach to creating a resistor string with equal resistance resistors. However, the Gross et al. approach achieves linearity at the cost of devoting a large amount of area to the resistor string. It is preferable, and in fact mandated by design constraints of many modern applications, that a resistor string exhibit linearity while requiring less area than that required by the Gross et al. approach.

Resistor string with equal resistance resistors and converter incorporating the same


A flying spinning tether toy has an annular rim and a transverse bar across the diameter joined to the rim. The transverse bar has an axial tubulation with a center hole at the axis of rotation. A closed loop of line passes through the center hole and around the rim at one point. A tether line connects to the loop. The toy is thrown with a spin like a discus. When flown to the full extent of the tether line, a pull on the line changes the direction of flight and the toy will return to the player. To keep the toy flying and spinning, the transverse bar is provided with a propeller like shape with sloping surfaces to provide lift, and the leading and trailing edges of the transverse bar are provided with low and high resistance faces to enhance spinning when pulled. Embodiments are shown having either the lifting elements or the unidirectional resistance elements alone. The spinning toy may also be provided in the shape of an inverted saucer.

This invention relates to a toy of the flying discus type and more particularly to a circular toy that spins and lifts when thrown and whose flight path is controlled by an attached monofilament tether.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,976,297 issued Aug. 24, 1976 to the applicant discloses a flying saucer-shaped disc that is thrown with a spinning motion by a flick of the user's wrist to provide the well known gyroscopic flying discus action. The disc is tethered by a monofilament line attached to a loop passing through an axial hole in the disc to cause the device to return to the thrower when tension is applied to the line.
Subsequent models have a circular rim with an open center. A flat bar across the diameter is connected to the rim at both ends and the axial hole is in the bar. No structures are provided in the prior art for maintaining the spinning or lift of the toy, so that the toy falls to the ground soon after launching. Young children do not have the strength and coordination to give the toy a sufficiently vigorous launch and spin to maintain flight long enough to be interesting.


Systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable media can present a first view of a three-dimensional user interface to a user, the first view representing a first portion of a three-dimensional space of the three-dimensional user interface. A first user input is received to modify the first view. The first view is modified based on the first user input to present a second view of the three-dimensional user interface, the second view representing a second portion of the three-dimensional space different from the first portion. The first portion comprises a first application window, and the second portion does not include the first application window.

Today, people often utilize computing devices (or systems) for a wide variety of purposes. Users can use their computing devices, for example, to interact with one another, create content, share content, and view content. In some cases, a user interface can be provided for a user to interact with various content on a computing device. For example, a user interface can allow a user to interact with various applications and/or files on the computing device. The user interface can also provide an organizational structure for a user to locate files and/or applications intuitively and with minimal difficulty.
One type of user interface commonly utilized in computing devices is a windows-driven user interface. A windows-driven user interface can, for example, be implemented on a two-dimensional display device, and provide one or more two-dimensional windows laid over a two-dimensional background, or desktop. Each window can be associated with a particular application. For example, a user can have a window open for a word processing application, a window open for a spreadsheet application, a window open for a web browser application, and a window open for an operating system application or file storage application. These various windows provide an organizational structure for a user to navigate between various applications.


5*3 states are arranged on a plane composed of the horizontal axis and vertical axis, 2-bit data of 01, 10, 00, and 11 are assigned to the state transitions in the up, down, right, and left-directions respectively in the 3*5 states. A 20-bit code is generated by 10 times the state transitions. 2.sup.16 20-bit codes are prepared and these codes have a one-to-one correspondence to 16-bit data (2.sup.16). The end point of the previous state transition is the starting point of the next state transition, and 16-bit data are converted successively to 20-bit codes while the state transitions occur continuously. In the manner as described above, the conversion efficiency in PR (1, 1) is improved.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a method and device for code modulation, method and device for code demodulation, and method and device for code decoding, and particularly relates to a method and device for code modulation, method and device for code demodulation, and method and device for code decoding suitably used for recording and reproducing audio data and video data in a recording media such as a disk or tape in a form of digital data.
2. Description of Related Art
High density recording of video and audio digital data in a recording media such as a magnetic disk, optical disc, magneto-optic disc, and magnetic tape is desirable. Usually, high density recording is realized using partial response (1, 0, -1) or partial response (1, 1). Higher density recording is realized using PRML (Partial Response Maximum Likelihood) that is a combination of partial response (1, 0, -1) or partial response (1, 1) with Viterbi decoding.
For example, in partial response (1, 0, -1) (abbreviated as PR4 hereinafter), assuming that the free squared Euclid distance (referred to as geometrical distance hereinafter) in the conventional peak (bit by bit) detection method is 1, then the geometrical distance for decoding can be 2 by performing Viterbi decoding. The larger geometrical distance can improve S/N ratio, and provide a means for additional high density recording. Further, PR4 allows the geometrical distance for Viterbi decoding to be 4 depending on the code modulation method.
For reproduction, for example, in order to suppress the generation of error due to the fluctuation of a reference level when a reproduction signal is converted to a binary code (digitized), or in order to suppress the generation of fluctuation in various error signals such as a tracking error signal in so-called servo control of a disk device or tape device, it is required to not include a direct current component in a modulation code.
Symbols of data 1! and 0! are represented by +1 and -1, then so-called DSV (Digital Sum Value), that is the grand total of symbols from the starting point of a modulation code train, is an index for evaluation of the above-mentioned direct current. A smaller absolute DSV represents a less direct current component or a low frequency component.
In modulations such as 8-10 modulation used for digital audio tape recorders (DAT), EFM (Eight to Fourteen Modulation) used for compact disc (CD) players, and Miller 2 (Miller Square) used for magnetic disk devices, DSV control is employed for reducing the absolute value of DSV, for example, after NRZI (Non Return Zero Inverted) that is so-called mark length modulation.
In PR4, DSV control may not be performed for reducing the absolute value of DSV of a modulation code train because PR4 has no direct current component in nature. But in partial response (1, 1) (abbreviated as PR1 hereinafter), DSV control should be performed to a modulation code train because PR1 a has direct current component by nature.
Further, application of a PRML system involves a problem of the length of path memory when Viterbi decoding is used. The path memory is a memory device for storing an estimated value of decode until the result of Viterbi decoding is established, and has a length proportional to the time length until the result is established. The time length until the establishment of the result, or the length of path memory, can be controlled dependent on the method for modulation coding. For example, the maximum value of the successive number of 1's in a modulation code train before NRZI modulation is the determinant of the required length of the path memory for application of 8-10 modulation code to PR1.
For a real device, it is not possible to provide an infinite path memory, and it is required to provide a path memory as short as possible in order to save cost and occupied space. A control for shortening the length of a path memory should be performed to a modulation code train.
In PR1 which has small spectrum in high frequencies and is suitable for high density recording in comparison with PR4, it is possible to simultaneously perform DSV control and the conversion of geometrical distance to 2 when decoding and to shorten the length of path memory by using the improved 8-10 modulated code proposed in the patent specification and drawings of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/309981 (Filing Date : Oct. 13, 1992) this applicant. The improved 8-10 modulation can not perform simultaneous DSV control and conversion of geometrical distance to 2 when decoding and can not shorten the length of path memory. This is disadvantageous. Though the geometrical distance when decoding can be 2, the geometrical distance when decoding can not be larger than 2. This is disadvantageous.
In order to solve the problem, the inventors of the present invention have proposed a code modulation method in which 3*3 states are located in the space of a transition diagram composed of the first axis and second axis. A code 00! is assigned for transition from a certain state to another state along the first axis in the first direction. A code 11! is assigned for transition from a certain state to another state along the first axis in the second direction opposite to the first direction. A code 01! is assigned for transition from a certain state to another state along the second axis in the third direction. A code 10! is assigned for transition from a certain state to another sate along the second axis in the fourth direction opposite to the third direction to generates a 12-bit code. The 12-bit code is assigned to 8-bit data correspondingly. Thereby a 8-bit data is converted to a 12-bit code. This proposed code modulation method and code demodulation method are described in the patent specification and drawings of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/579,002 (Filing Date: Dec. 27, 1995). (Japanese Patent Application corresponding to this application is not yet published when this application was filed in the U.S.A. Therefore, the application is described herein only for reference to an examiner)
However, this method performs not so high of conversion efficiency because this method is a method for converting a 8-bit data to a 12-bit code. This method is still not sufficient in the aspect of high density recording and reproduction.

Method and device for code modulation, method and device for code demodulation, and method and device for decoding


An ultrasonic cleaning apparatus for cleaning the interior surfaces of tubes. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic generator and reflector each coupled to opposing ends of the open-ended, fluid-filled tube. Fluid-tight couplings seal the reflector and generator to the tube, preventing leakage of fluid from the interior of the tube. The reflector and generator are operatively connected to actuators, whereby the distance between them can be varied. When the distance is changed, the frequency of the sound waves is simultaneously adjusted to maintain the resonant frequency of the tube so that a standing wave is formed in the tube, the nodes of which are moved axially to cause cavitation along the length of the tube. Cavitation maximizes mechanical disruption and agitation of the fluid, dislodging foreign material from the interior surface.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to ultrasonic cleaning. In particular, the present invention relates to ultrasonic cleaning of the interior surfaces of elongated tubes.
2. Discussion of Background
Pipes or tubes for circulation of process fluids or containment of materials are abundant in industrial facilities. To avoid contamination of chemical compounds used in a process, all pipes, containers, and so forth to be used in the process are thoroughly cleaned before use. In particular, the surfaces of process piping must be cleaned to remove deposits of grease and particulate materials remaining from machining operations.
A number of techniques are available for cleaning elongated tubes. Cleaning is often accomplished simply by submerging the tubes in a cleaning solution for a predetermined time, or by pressure flushing with chlorinated fluorocarbon (CFC) solvents such as methylene chloride toluene. CFC solvents are effective but environmentally undesirable, so their use is being reduced or eliminated in many areas. Aqueous, non-CFC, solvents are biodegradable, thus are considered to be environmentally preferable. However, aqueous solvents are much less effective cleaning agents than CFC solvents when used with these conventional techniques.
High pressure, low-frequency shock waves are used to unplug blocked pipes (Simon, U.S. Pat. No. 4,974,617; Coon et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,551,041), and clean corrosion products and sedimentation from the interior walls of heat exchanger tubes (Scharton et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,645,542). Such techniques are, however, not suitable for cleaning the interior surfaces of elongated tubes for the purpose of degreasing, due to the high pressures (up to 5,000 psi) of the shock waves and extended time periods required (1-24 hours).
The use of ultrasonics to enhance the cleaning effectiveness of solvents is well known. Ultrasonic techniques are particularly valuable when aqueous solvents are used, since aqueous solvents are intrinsically less effective than CFC solvents. The object to be cleaned is placed in a bath containing a mixture of water or some other solvent. Ultrasonic waves agitate the mixture, inducing cavitation or fluid breakdown at sites where the localized pressure is low enough that the fluid can no longer support the sound wave. At typical ultrasonic frequencies, cavitation occurs at sound pressures of approximately 0.36 watt/cm.sup.2 in water, compared to approximately 1.20.times.10.sup.3 watts/cm.sup.2 in air at atmospheric pressure. The mechanical disruption and agitation of the fluid at the cavitation sites significantly enhances its effectiveness as a cleaner and degreaser.
John, Jr. et al. describe an ultrasonic cleaning apparatus for fuel rod tubes in U.S. Pat. No. 4,966,177. These perforated tubes are conveyed through a cleaning bath filled with detergent-containing water. Ultrasonic transducers induce cavitation within the water, thereby cleaning the tubes. This technique is also effective for cleaning the exterior surface of a solid wall tube. However, metals reflect a significant fraction of incident sound energy, so the wall of the tube forms a barrier to efficient energy transfer to the interior. Thus, cavitation cannot readily be induced within the interior of the solid wall of the tube when it is immersed in an ultrasonic bath, so there remains a need for a method for the effective cleaning of the interior surface of a tube.

Ultrasonic cleaning of interior surfaces

The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy


An extended authorization system and method implementing a second layer of access authorization. The first layer of access authorization corresponds to conventional access authorization processing such as, for example, validating an entered user identifier and password. The second layer of access authorization determines if the user has a valid contractual or other business relationship with an information system provider. The status and type of contractual or other business relationship may determine user access privileges which allow the user to access services provided by an information system. When a user has a valid contractual or other business relationship with an information system provider, first layer authorization login data such as, for example, a user identifier and password may be generated for the user.

In order to regulate access to computer systems, networks, and information systems, authentication procedures have been established to implement basic levels of security. The most common authentication procedure is the use of login information such as, for example, a user identification (e.g., user name) and password, to restrict the access to a computer system, network, and/or information system to designated individuals. This basic authentication model is the standard conventional means of implementing access control on computer systems, networks, and information systems. Other less widely used authentication models include, among others, security keys (e.g., radio frequency cards) which work in a similar manner by matching a code associated with the key to a code that has been permitted access to the system in question. One alternative example of the conventional basic authentication model is the use of radio frequency codes (e.g., on radio frequency cards) to provide login information (e.g., user identifier) to a system. Though the technical media is different, the basic authentication model functions in the same way as for the more standard keying in of user identification and password data.
Some authentication models may use the login information (e.g., user name and password or radio frequency code) to determine the services provided to the user upon login. Service determination in these conventional embodiments is based on the information used in the basic authentication model (e.g., user name and password or radio frequency code) and does not contemplate other considerations that may be pertinent in determining the services presented to a user. For example, users accessing an information system of an insurance provider may all be given access to the same services instead of tailoring the services offered according to the type of policy in effect between the user and the bank. This limitation on tailoring services is based on the restricted authentication criteria (e.g., user name and password) used in making the service determination. In order to overcome this limitation, some systems may designate specific services for each user. However, these services are still determined by the user login information (i.e., the allowed services are linked to the user login information). The conventional means for access authorization is limited by the reliance on the login information in determining access privileges and services.
Moreover, a common feature in virtually all conventional authentication models regulating access to computer systems, networks, and information systems is the binary nature of the authentication either granting or denying access based on matching a user's login data or code with an associated system recognized value. For example, if a user name and password entered by a user matches data in a record/row in a security database of an information system, the user is granted access to the information system. Otherwise, the user is denied access. Intermediate processing is not available whereby a user may be granted access based on other considerations such as the user's contractual relationship with the computer system, network, and/or information systems provider. This represents a further limitation imposed by conventional authentication models.

Method and system for user authentication and authorization of services


A liquid crystal display includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix, the pixels including a plurality of pixel electrodes each including a first subpixel electrode and a second subpixel electrode; a plurality of first thin film transistors electrically connected to the first subpixel electrodes; a plurality of second thin film transistors electrically connected to the second subpixel electrodes; a plurality of third thin film transistors electrically connected to the second subpixel electrodes; a plurality of first gate lines electrically connected to the first and second thin film transistors; a plurality of data lines electrically connected to the first and second thin film transistors; a plurality of the second gate lines electrically connected to the third thin film transistors; and a plurality of capacitance electrode lines overlapping the first and second gate lines and disposed in a same layer as a layer of the pixel electrodes, wherein drain electrodes of the third thin film transistors overlap the capacitance electrode lines.

(a) Field of the Invention
This disclosure relates to a liquid crystal display.
(b) Description of the Related Art
A liquid crystal display (hereinafter, referred to as an "LCD") is one of the most widely used flat panel displays. The LCD includes two display panels including electric field generating electrodes, the electric field generating electrodes including pixel electrodes and a common electrode, and a liquid crystal layer interposed between the two display panels. In the LCD, voltages are applied to the electric field generating electrode to generate an electric field in the liquid crystal layer. Due to the generated electric field, liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer align and a polarization of incident light is controlled, thereby an displaying image.
The LCD also includes switching elements electrically connected to the respective pixel electrodes, and a plurality of signal lines, including gate lines and data lines, for controlling the switching elements and applying voltages to the pixel electrodes.
A type of LCD is a vertical alignment mode LCD. In a vertical alignment mode LCD, major axes of the liquid crystal molecules are disposed so as to be vertical relative to the display panels in a state in which an electric field is not applied. The vertical alignment mode LCD has been widely used due to its high contrast ratio and wide reference viewing angle. The reference viewing angle refers to a viewing angle that is 1:10 in contrast ratio, or a critical angle of gray-to-gray luminance reversion.
One method for side visibility to approximate front visibility in a vertical alignment mode LCD is a method which causes a different transmittance from two subpixels disposed by dividing a pixel into two subpixels and applying different voltages to the two subpixels.
An exemplary method of causing different transmittance from two subpixels includes applying a same voltage to two subpixels and reducing a voltage of one of the two subpixels by using a separate switching element. In this structure, when the semiconductor layer is disposed under the data conductor, a capacitance of a capacitor is not uniform due to the semiconductor layer such that it can be difficult to control the voltage of the two subpixels.


The present disclosure provides an intelligent voice shopping system and method. The system includes: an information collecting device, configured to capture voice information; a data processing device, configured to process the voice information, obtain row and column information of a location of the user, and obtain corresponding voice information of the product from a product information database according to the voice information and the row and column information, wherein the product information database stores in advance a correspondence between voice information of various types of products and the row and column information; and a directional transmission device, configured to send the voice information of the product to the user.

When customers shop in supermarkets, shops, and other places, they may need to consult the shopping guides of the above locations for some of the unfamiliar goods, such as the production area of vegetable and fruit, a certain method of using skin care products, the size of the clothes, the suitability of a skin care product, or the like.

Intelligent voice shopping system and shopping method


Methods and systems are provided for maintaining combustion stability in a multi-fuel engine. In one example, a system may include first and second fuel systems to deliver liquid and gaseous fuels, respectively, to at least one cylinder of the engine, and a controller. The controller may be configured to supply the gaseous fuel to the at least one cylinder, inject the liquid fuel to the at least one cylinder to compression ignite the liquid fuel and combust the gaseous fuel in the at least one cylinder, and retard an injection timing of the injection of the liquid fuel based on a measured parameter associated with auto-ignition of end gases subsequent to the compression-ignition of the liquid fuel. In some examples, the controller may further be configured to adjust an amount of the gaseous fuel relative to an amount of the liquid fuel based on the measured parameter.

Engines may be configured to operate with more than one fuel type. For example, engines may operate with liquid fuel, such as diesel, and gaseous fuel, such as natural gas. A mixture of gaseous fuel and air provided to a cylinder of an engine may be ignited when liquid fuel is injected into the cylinder. The compression of the cylinder ignites the liquid fuel and the gas/air mixture burns from the initiation site created by the liquid fuel combustion, forming a flame front that propagates to heat the unburned mixture ahead of the flame front. Under certain conditions where the temperature and pressure of the unburned gases reach an auto-ignition limit, combustion may be initiated before the flame front can initiate combustion, resulting in a secondary ignition point or volumetric ignition of the remaining mixture. If the secondary ignition point is formed or volumetric ignition occurs, detonation waves may be formed that can lead to engine degradation. Further, uncontrolled auto-ignition may result in high in-cylinder pressure, which may lead to engine degradation and potentially higher emissions due to higher in-cylinder temperatures.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Systems and method for controlling auto-ignition


Circuits and methods for providing zero-gap playback of consecutive data streams in portable electronic devices, such as media players, are described. In some embodiments, a circuit includes a decoder circuit configured to receive encoded audio data and to output decoded audio data including data streams associated with a data file and a subsequent data file. Moreover, a predictive circuit, which is electrically coupled to the decoder circuit, is configured to selectively generate additional samples based on samples in the data file, where the additional samples correspond to times after the end of a data stream associated with the data file. Additionally, a filter circuit, which is electrically coupled to the decoder circuit and selectively electrically coupled to the predictive circuit, is configured to selectively combine or blend samples at a beginning of the subsequent data file with the additional samples. Note that the circuit may be included in an integrated circuit.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to techniques for smoothly transitioning between consecutive data streams. More specifically, the present invention relates to circuits and methods for providing zero-gap playback of consecutive data streams using predictive mixing.
2. Related Art
Portable electronic devices, such as media players, are becoming increasingly popular. These devices allow users to store and playback a variety of media files, such as audio files containing music. In order to enjoy a continuous stream of music, users typically queue multiple media files, such as those in a play list, for playback.
However, there are often 'breaks' or 'gaps' in this continuous stream at the beginnings and/or the endings of media files, which may degrade the overall user experience. For example, there is often a header and/or a trailer in a given audio file that does not include music. These headers and trailers may include a fixed time interval associated with a media application/encoder that was used to generate the given audio file (including any warm-up time and/or delays associated with the encoder), as well as a variable time interval associated with how the given audio file was generated (including factors such as the window size and the sampling rate). Moreover, the music in many songs progressively ramps up at the beginning and/or slowly ramps down at the end. These intervals effectively add to the headers and/or trailers and increase the size of the gaps between consecutive songs in a play list.
Since these gaps degrade the overall user experience, it is often advantageous to reduce or to eliminate them. For example, during radio broadcasts many disc jockeys routinely start a subsequent song prior to the end of the preceding song. This approach may be implemented in electronic devices using multiple decoders. For example, one decoder may decode an audio file associated with the current song and another decoder may decode an audio file associated with the subsequent song. By transitioning between the data streams output by these decoders, the gap during consecutive playback of these audio files may be reduced or eliminated. Alternatively, a single decoder may be used with a large memory or buffer, which can be used to simultaneously store decoded data streams for multiple audio files, thereby facilitating transitions between these audio files during playback.
However, it may be difficult to use these techniques in portable electronic devices. For example, due to the limited energy capacity of batteries, as well as cost constraints, many portable devices do not have multiple decoders and/or have a limited amount of memory. These limitations and constraints make it difficult to reduce or eliminate gaps during playback of consecutive audio files.
Hence what is needed is a method and an apparatus that facilitates playback of consecutive data streams without the above-described problems.

Zero-gap playback using predictive mixing


A flash and voice warning system generally comprises a power supply with charging circuit, a smoke sensor power supply and auto reset circuit, a smoke sensor (or manual operation), a circuit for converting current to voltage, a single-chip microprocessor, a 60 Hz square wave generator, a control circuit, a buffer, a current amplifier, a high-voltage circuit, N-discharge tube circuits, N-triggering circuits, a flash lamp direction control circuit, and a voice circuit. The smoke sensor is arranged in an appropriate position of a building and the other circuits are mounted within a control box made of fire-proof material. Hence, the flash and voice warning system for fire accidents can direct people where to flee from the fire in case of fire accidents.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention is related to a flash and voice warning system for fire accidents.
2. Description of the Prior Art
It is often known that many people die of suffocation and flames in a building, especially a large and high building. In order to survive the toxic environment associated with fires, victims need to reach breathable air in a minute. Hence, there are known fire alarms used for giving warning signals to the people in a building. However, such alarms are simply apparatuses for giving a warning of danger and cannot tell people where to flee from the fire thereby making it impractical in use.
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a flash and voice warning system for fire accidents which can obviate and mitigate the above-mentioned drawbacks.


A thermoplastic resin composition comprising (A) 75 to 99.8% by weight of a rubber-modified styrene thermoplastic resin, (B) 0.1 to 15% by weight of an aromatic polyester having an intrinsic viscosity in the range of 0.2 to 1.5 dl/g, and (C) 0.1 to 10% by weight of an aromatic polycarbonate. The resin composition provides a painted surface with a superior appearance when a paint is applied on its surface, while maintaining its good fluidity, high impact resistance, and excellent molding heat stability. It can be applied with particular advantage to bodies or chassis of automobiles and the like onto which a paint is coated.

1. Field of the Invention:
The present invention relates to a thermoplastic resin composition comprising a major amount of a rubber-modified styrene thermoplastic resin, a small amount of an aromatic polyester with a specific intrinsic viscosity, and a small amount of an aromatic polycarbonate. The thermoplastic resin composition possesses a high impact resistance and provides a painted surface with a superior appearance when a paint is applied on its surface.
2. Description of the Background Art
A rubber modified styrene thermoplastic resin is light in weight and can excellently be processed or molded. A secondary processing such as painting and galvanization can easily be applied to the molded surface. Because of these reasons, the resin is abundantly used for bodies or chassis of automobiles and the like. A rubber modified styrene thermoplastic resin, however, is unstable against organic solvents used for paints and produces deficiencies on the painted surfaces after finishing, such as crazing and very fine cracks leading to lack of glossiness, due to residual stresses created during the molding.
A method known in the art to solve the problem and to improve the external appearance of the painted surfaces is to use a large amount of monomers having polar groups, e.g. cyano compounds, for producing rubber modified styrene thermoplastic resins. Even though the method can improve the external appearance of the painted surfaces, moldability, processability, and molding heat stability of the resin are greatly impaired. Adhesion of the painted film to the substrate also decreases.
Thus, the improvement in external appearances of the painted surfaces involved the problem of worsening the intrinsic properties of the resin, such as superior moldability, processability, heat stability, and the like. They are inherently incompatible with each other. Conventional technologies could not find an adequate solution to the problem.
The present inventors have undertaken extensive studies in order to solve this problem, and found that incorporation of a small amount of aromatic polyester with a specific intrinsic viscosity and an aromatic polycarbonate could improve both the painted surface appearance and the impact resistance of a rubber modified styrene thermoplastic resin.


A system for accurate and precise measurements of analyte(s) in a system. The measurement system comprises piezoelectric surface wave sample devices, at least one piezoelectric surface wave reference device, and the measurement instrument.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to analytical chemistry, and, more particularly, to devices and methods for determining the concentration of analytes in liquid samples.
2. State of the Art
In the field of analytical chemistry, there is a continuing interest in developing new, simpler and more reliable techniques to detect and measure the presence of analyte(s) in samples. In many instances, both speed and accuracy are important for the measurement, particularly with certain physiologically active compounds. In other situations, convenience can be made a major consideration.
Piezoelectric sensors have been used as microgravimetric immunoassay devices (see, for example, Joy E. Roederer and Glenn J. Bastiaans, "Microgravimetric Immunoassay with Piezoelectric Crystals", Anal. Chem. 1983, 2333-2336). These sensors operate on the principle that changes in the amount of mass attached to their surface cause shifts in the resonant frequency.
For ascertaining the concentration of a compound in a liquid, the piezoelectric sensor is preferably a surface transverse wave device or a Love wave device (collectively referred to as "piezoelectric surface wave devices"). Such devices are known in the art and are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,130,257 and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 07/792,975 and 07/404,721, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Piezoelectric surface wave devices and other surface acoustic wave devices have come into general use, primarily for filtering radio frequency signals. A typical device is constructed on a piezoelectric substrate and has interdigital input and output transducers defined by precise electrode fingers.
In the case of piezoelectric surface wave devices, selective mass detection is achieved by coating the surface of the device with a chemically reactive layer (e.g., a receptor layer) that preferentially reacts with the substance to be detected such that the mass of the receptor layer changes in the presence of this substance. These devices function as chemical sensors that can measure the concentration of the selected class of compounds in a solution into which the sensor or device is immersed. For example, to measure the concentration of a specific antibody in a solution, a piezoelectric surface wave device is utilized in which the receptor layer contains the antigen corresponding to this antibody. The concentration of this antibody in a liquid can be measured by immersing the device in the liquid. Antibody present in the liquid will bind to the surface of the device, thereby increasing the mass loading of the top surface. Radio frequency energy coupled into the device through the input transducer is converted to a surface acoustic wave confined to within a few wavelengths of the surface. The velocity of the surface acoustic wave will vary according to the mass loading of the top surface of the device. The surface acoustic wave propagates along the surface of the device until it encounters the output transducer, which converts the surface acoustic wave back into RF energy. The change in velocity of the surface acoustic wave with the mass loading of the surface of the device translates into variation of the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the output transducer which can then be correlated to the mass of the antibody bound to the surface.
The mass sensitivity (i.e., the fractional frequency change divided by the mass change of material deposited on the surface of the device) increases as the mass of the piezoelectric surface wave device is decreased or, correspondingly, as the device thickness is decreased. A practical lower limit of about 100 microns, corresponding to a resonance frequency of about 20 MHz, is imposed on device thickness by manufacturing difficulties. Consequently, the sensitivity of piezoelectric surface wave devices is limited.
As an additional complication, while prior art devices attribute the shift in resonant frequency in piezoelectric surface wave devices used in liquid sample (e.g., aqueous solutions) to changes in the mass attached to the surface, not all of this shift is due solely to increases in the mass. In particular, physical and chemical factors such as temperature, pressure, non-specific binding, ionic strength, conductivity, mass density, viscosity, etc., are all interrelated to the shift in resonant frequency and interfere with any direct correlation between the shift in resonant frequency and the changes in mass attached to the surface of the device. While this interference can be minimized to some extent, a true correlation between frequency shifts and mass is not possible.
In the prior art, multiple measurements of multiple analytes have required a large volume of analyte to be divided into separate samples, one for each measurement. In certain medical testing applications, only a limited quantity of analyte may be available. Without the ability to perform multiple measurements of multiple analytes from a single sample, the number of measurements that may be performed is therefore limited.

Mass sensor method for measuring analytes in a sample


A goggle and an angle adjustment mechanism thereof are provided. The angle adjustment mechanism includes an assembling slot and a bendable temple. The assembling slot has a retaining rack arranged therein, and the retaining rack is in an arced shape. The bendable temple is integrally formed as a single one-piece structure and includes an assembling segment pivotally connected to the assembling slot and having an engaging tooth and a flexible segment that extends from the assembling segment. The engaging tooth of the assembling segment is inserted into the assembling slot and is engaged with the retaining rack, and the assembling segment is rotatable relative to the assembling slot in an angle range, so that the engaging tooth is engaged with and movable from one end of the retaining rack to another end of the retaining rack.

A conventional goggle needs to have an adjustment function for matching different facial sizes and contours of users. For example, the conventional goggle includes a frame and two temple structures that are assembled to the frame, and each of the two temple structures is formed by assembling a plurality of components, thereby providing an angle adjustment function. However, the temple structure of the conventional goggle is manufactured by a complex assembling process and is easily damaged, which results in a high manufacturing cost of the conventional goggle.

Goggle and angle adjustment mechanism thereof


A virtualization system for supporting at least two operating systems and resource allocation method of the virtualization system are provided. The method includes allocating resources to the operating systems, calculating, when one of the operating systems is running, workloads for each operating system, and adjusting resources allocated to the operating systems according to the calculated workloads. The present invention determines the workloads of a plurality of operating systems running in the virtualization system and allocates time resources dynamically according to the variation of the workloads.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a virtualization system for supporting at least two operating systems and a resource allocation method of the virtualization system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for allocating hardware resources on multiple cores of the virtualization system supporting at least two operating systems and a system for executing the resource allocation method.
2. Description of the Related Art
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a virtualization system according to related art.
Referring to FIG. 1, the virtualization system supporting at least two operating systems is capable of utilizing resources efficiently on multiple cores. An operating system running on the virtualization layer acts as if it occupies the corresponding hardware resource wholly on its own.
The virtualization software operates in a similar way as a scheduler of the operating system. Accordingly, the virtualization software schedules the individual operating systems running on the virtualization layer as tasks. The operating systems are assigned time resources in a predetermined ratio. In order for the at least two operating systems to share a hardware resource, each operating system use the time resources in up to a predetermined number of time slots (t). How to allocate time resources for each operating system is described below with reference to FIG. 2.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a method for a plurality of operating systems to share a resource according to related art.
Referring to FIG. 2, the first operating system (OS1) 210 consumes the time resource allocated for tOS1 and then hands over control to the Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) as a hypervisor so as to execute tasks necessary for driving hardware. After completing the operations necessary for driving hardware, the VMM hands over the control to the second operating system (OS2) 220. The second operating system 220 consumes the time resource allocated for tOS2. The second operating system 220 then hands over the control to the VMM. A method for each operating system to operate with the allocated time resource is described below with reference to FIG. 3.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an operating system to operate with an allocated time resource according to related art.
Referring to FIG. 3, the VMM for driving at least two operating systems starts operating in step 310. Here, the VMM may also be referred to as a hypervisor and control multiple operating systems running in a single host terminal.
The VMM creates a guest OS1 as the first operating system and fixes the weight of the resource allocated to the OS1 in step 320. The VMM creates a guest OS2 as the second operating system and fixes the weight of the resource allocated to the OS2 in step 330.
The VMM adjusts the time quantum per operating system in step 340. The VMM determines whether the scheduler has scheduled the OS1 or OS2 in step 350. If the OS1 has been scheduled, the OS1 runs in step 360. If the OS2 is scheduled, the OS2 runs in step 370.
In such a virtualization system, the time resource allocated according to the workload of the tasks executed in the individual operating systems may not be consumed completely. While one operating system is idle, the other operating system may be slacking due to the lack of resource. Such a situation is described with reference to FIG. 4.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating behaviors of operating systems in a method according to related art.
Referring to FIG. 4, the time resource consumptions of the first operating system (General Purpose Operating System; GPOS) and the second operating system (Real Time Operating System; RTOS) vary according to the executed tasks. However, the time resources allocated to the respective operating systems are fixed to a predetermined amount. Accordingly, although the first operating system consumes a large amount of time while the second operating system consumes a small amount of time, there is no way to reallocate the remaining time resource allocated to the second operating system without consumption to the first operating system. Also, when the first operating system consumes a small amount of time while the second operating system uses a large amount of time, it is impossible for the second operating system to use the time resource allocated to the first operating system but not consumed.

Virtualization system and resource allocation method thereof


Injection molding apparatus having a number of heated nozzles extending in a row from an elongated heated melt distribution manifold. Each heated nozzle has a pair of mounting flanges extending outwardly in opposite directions adjacent its rear end. Hollow insulating and locating bushings extend forwardly from the mounting flanges to the cooled cavity plate. The combination of the mounting flanges and the insulating and locating bushings accurately locates the heated nozzles very closely together in a row and spaces the heated elongated melt distribution manifold rearwardly from the cooled cavity plate.

This invention relates generally to multiple nozzle injection molding apparatus and more particularly to such apparatus wherein a number of nozzles extend from an elongated melt distribution manifold and each nozzle has an elongated mounting flange from which two locating and insulating bushings extend into the mold on opposite sides of the nozzle.
Injection molding apparatus having a number of heated nozzles extending from an elongated heated melt distribution manifold into a cooled mold are well known. As seen in U.S. Pat. No. 5,282,735 to Gellert which issued Feb. 1, 1994, in some applications the front end of the nozzle is located in the mold and the rear end of the nozzle is attached to the melt distribution manifold by being screwed into it. However, in most applications, it is necessary to locate both the front and rear ends of the nozzle in the mold to allow the melt distribution manifold to move slightly relative to the rear end of the nozzles to allow for heat expansion and contraction of the elongated melt distribution manifold. As shown for instance in U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,491 to Gellert which issued Jul. 4, 1995, this is usually achieved by the nozzle having an outer cylindrical collar portion which is either an integral part of the nozzle or removable and sits against a circular seat in the mold. However, these previous nozzles with a cylindrical collar portion have the disadvantage that the cylindrical collar portions prevent the pitch between adjacent nozzles or cavities along the elongated melt distribution manifold being reduced as much as desired.

Injection molding apparatus having nozzles with elongated mounting flanges


A fluid sensing device such as a Surface Transverse Wave device or a Love Wave device having controlled transfers of energy from a transduction surface of a piezoelectric substrate to a sensing surface and back to the transduction surface. A first wave-trapping structure adjacent to an input transducer tapers to provide a controlled diffraction of shear transverse wave energy to a second wave-trapping structure disposed on an opposite side of the piezoelectric substrate. The second wave-trapping structure interfaces with the fluid under test. The shear transverse waves are then recaptured by a third wave-trapping structure on the same surface as the first wave-trapping structure. The wave energy is then decoupled from the piezoelectric substrate. In the STW device, the wave-trapping structures are periodic fingers that are selectively varied in thickness or width or both. In the LW device, the wave-trapping structures are plates that each vary in thickness.

There are a number of types of piezoelectric devices that have been designed to perform electronic signal processing or to measure such variables as mass, pressure, viscosity and density. For example, a gravimetric sensor may be used to measure the concentration of a selected class of compounds in a chemical solution into which the sensor is immersed. In addition to use with liquids, piezoelectric sensors may be utilized with gases.
As used herein, such piezoelectric devices are broadly classified as "bulk wave devices," "plate wave devices" and "surface wave devices." A bulk wave device is one in which an acoustic wave tends to propagate and extend throughout the full thickness of a piezoelectric substrate. A plate wave device is one in which acoustic energy is confined by reflection from the top and bottom surfaces of a plate. A surface wave device is one in which acoustic energy is confined in a vertical direction (i.e. a direction perpendicular to a substrate surface) in a region adjacent to the substrate surface.
Each of the three classes can be subclassified by the orientation of the acoustic wave motion with regard to the substrate surface of the device. The three types of wave motion are: (1) longitudinal wave motion in which material displacement is in a direction parallel to the direction of propagation of the wave; (2) shear vertical wave motion in which material displacement is in a direction perpendicular to both the substrate surface and the direction of wave propagation; and (3) shear transverse, or shear horizontal, wave motion in which material displacement is perpendicular to the direction of propagation and parallel to the substrate surface.
A "Surface Acoustic Wave" (SAW) device is one type of surface wave device. This type is also known as a "Rayleigh Wave" (RW) device and utilizes waves that are predominantly shear vertical, with the energy localized within an acoustic wave length of the substrate surface. While this type operates efficiently in many applications, the shear vertical wave motion may adversely affect performance when the SAW device is used as a sensor in a liquid. The shear vertical component of wave motion presses against the fluid under test. If the surface wave velocity is greater than the fluid compressional wave velocity, energy will be radiated into the fluid. Because the energy of the surface wave leaks away into the fluid, the fluid compressional waves are called "leaky waves." The attenuation resulting from leaky-wave radiation into a fluid causes an unacceptable amount of insertion loss, rendering the device inoperable for such use.
A "Flexural Plate Wave" (FPW) device also utilizes shear vertical wave motion. An FPW sensor has a thin plate that is fabricated by using conventional semiconductor fabrication techniques. An FPW chemical sensor is described by Wenzel et al. in "Flexural Plate-wave Gravimetric Chemical Sensor," Sensors and Actuators, A21-A23 (1990), pages 700-703. A region for the flow of a vapor or a liquid is etched into a silicon substrate and an ultrasonic delay line consisting of a composite plate of low-stress silicon nitride, aluminum and zinc oxide is used as the plate for the top-to-bottom reflection of wave energy. The FPW sensor has the advantage of exhibiting an acoustic velocity that is less than the acoustic velocity of most liquids, thereby avoiding the "leaking away" of wave energy into the liquid. However, the FPW sensor is overly sensitive to small changes in liquid density, pressure and temperature. Moreover, the sensor is relatively fragile, since the plate is extremely thin, as necessitated by a low acoustic velocity.
Shear transverse wave motion is the preferred orientation of acoustic wave motion within a fluid sensor. Shear transverse waves are not affected by the same leaky wave mechanism, since the material displacement at the fluid/substrate interface is parallel to the substrate surface and does not press against the fluid. The absence of the surface-normal component of material displacement allows the shear transverse waves to propagate without unacceptable amounts of wave energy dissipation into the fluid under test.
An "Acoustic Plate Mode" (APM) liquid sensor using shear transverse waves is described by Martin et al. in "Characterization of SH Acoustic Plate Mode Liquid Sensors," Sensors and Actuators, 20 (1989), pages 253-268. Martin et al. teach use of a thin, single-crystalline quartz plate which acts as an acoustic wave guide to confine acoustic energy between upper and lower surfaces of a plate as the waves propagate from an input to an output transducer. The upper and lower surfaces of the quartz plate impose a transverse resonance condition, such that the APM has displacement maxima at the surfaces, with sinusoidal variation between the surfaces. Because of the characteristics of plate wave devices, sensing can take place on a side of the quartz plate opposite to the transducers. APM sensors are less susceptible to leaky-wave attenuation, but are typically less sensitive than SAW devices.
A "Surface Skimming Bulk Wave" (SSBW) device utilizes shear transverse wave motion. The Surface Skimming Bulk Wave type is also referred to as a "Shallow Bulk Acoustic Wave" (SBAW) device. Propagation occurs by way of bulk mode, in which the waves graze the surface and diffract into the piezoeleotric substrate. Bulk propagating modes have higher velocities than Rayleigh waves, but are more susceptible to losses due to inefficient coupling of power to and from the substrate. Moreover, diffraction losses are significant.
"Love Wave" (LW) devices differ from an SSBW by the inclusion of a plate that functions as a surface trapping structure to trap the wave energy proximate to the surface of the piezoelectric substrate. Addition of the plate provides mass loading and causes piezoelectric shorting which slows down the skimming bulk shear wave, thereby creating a decay of the wave function into the depth of the substrate. The material selected in fabricating the plate is conventionally one having a lower acoustic shear wave velocity than the piezoelectric substrate, so that the plate slows the shear transverse wave even further.
A "Surface Transverse Wave" (STW) device also utilizes shear horizontal wave motion. The STW device differs from the Love Wave device only by the replacement of the wave-trapping plate with surface grooves or with a raised grating of fingers. The grating of fingers provides stronger surface trapping than the plate. Thus, high velocity bulk modes are further trapped near the surface of the substrate, allowing an even greater coupling of power through more efficient transduction.
Typically, an LW sensor or an STW sensor includes an input interdigital transducer having an array of interleaved electrode fingers to launch shear transverse waves along a sensing region of a piezoelectric substrate in response to an electrical signal. On the opposite end of the sensing region is an output interdigital transducer, which detects the waves and generates a corresponding output signal. In its simplest form, such sensors act as highly sensitive detectors of changes in surface mass, responding to accumulated mass per unit area. More sophistication is achieved by coating the surface of the piezoelectric substrate with a chemically reactive layer that preferentially reacts with a constituent within the fluid under test. Depending upon the concentration of the constituent within the fluid, the mass of the chemically reactive layer will fluctuate. The change in mass of the layer causes a corresponding change in the phase delay or acoustic shear wave velocity of the sensor. Thus, the sensor may be dedicated to detection of a specific constituent, such as a particular antibody within a solution.
One concern in the use of an LW sensor or an STW sensor is the effect of the fluid under test on the input and output interdigital transducers. Typically, the electrode fingers of each of the transducers are interleaved metallic members. Depending upon the fluid under test, the fluid may cause corrosion of the electrode fingers. Moreover, the fluid may electrically short the electrode fingers together. Therefore, preferably the fluid is sealed within the sensing region of the sensor and prevented from reaching the interdigital transducers. For example, a flow cell may be mounted to the surface of the piezoelectric substrate and a compliant gasket may be sandwiched between the flow cell and the substrate surface.
Sealing the fluid flow from the interdigital transducers solves the problems of electrical shorting and premature corrosion, but creates other problems. Firstly, the compliant gasket is another source of leaky-wave attenuation. Wave energy leaks away from the sensor substrate into the compliant gasket in the form of shear waves. Secondly, in addition to leaky-wave attenuation, other mechanisms cause the gasket to reflect or absorb wave energy, leaving a smaller fraction of wave energy propagating from the input interdigital transducer to the output interdigital transducer. The wave attenuation increases with the length and the mechanical rigidity of the gasket or other sealing member. Consequently, the choice of the means for providing a fluid-tight seal represents a compromise between attenuation and fluid sealing considerations. That is, the compromise is between the sensitivity of the sensor and the reliability of the seal.
It is an object of the present invention to improve the sensitivity and performance of Surface Transverse Wave devices and Love Wave devices that are utilized for fluid sensing, wherein the improvement is achieved without compromising the reliability of a fluid-tight seal for containment of a fluid under test.

Double-sided fluid sensor for reduced attenuation of shear transverse waves