A method for analyzing or detecting methimazole (“MTZ”) comprising contacting a sample suspected of containing MTZ with the dendrimer-stabilized silver nanoparticles and performing surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Graphene-dendrimer-stabilized silver nanoparticles (G-D-Ag).

Field of the Invention. The present disclosure relates generally to graphene-dendrimer-stabilized silver nanoparticles (G-D-Ag) and polymer supported derivatives and sheets thereof.
Description of Related Art Raman spectroscopy is based on the behavior of the inelastically scattered photons upon interaction with targeted molecules, and it has been recently becoming an attractive tool for various applications. The most challenging problem with Raman techniques is the nature of the weak scattering, which hinders its effective utilization, especially for low detection limit targets. The surface-enhanced Raman scattering ("SERS") approach, however, could provide a promising strategy to solve this problem. Moreover, given the noticeable advances in instrument technology, Raman spectroscopy has begun to compete with well-established traditional analytical techniques in terms of sensitivity and ease of use; Fleischmann M., Hendra P. J. & McQuilla A. J. Raman spectra of pyridine adsorbed at a silver electrode. Chemical Physics Letters, 26, 2, 163-166 (1974).
In SERS, the targeted molecules are adsorbed from an aqueous solution onto nanoparticles that allow a charge transfer between analyte molecules and the particle surface, leading to an enhancement of the Raman signal. See Tian Z. Q., Ren, B. & Wu D. Y. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering: from noble to transition metals and from rough surfaces to ordered nanostructures. Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 106, 37, 9463-9483 (2002), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Among the various commonly used types of materials to produce enhanced scattered Raman light are high-purity film-based substrates, which include metals settled on planar surfaces such as glass, quartz, and silicon wafers; or on nanoparticle-embedded surfaces such as silica beads and polystyrene. See Vanduyne R. P., Hulteen J. C. & Treichel D. A. Atomic force microscopy and surface enhanced Raman Spectroscopy, Ag island film over polymer nanosphere surfaces supported on glass. Journal of Chemical Physics, 99, 3, 2101-2115 (1993); and Giesfeldt, K. S. et al. Studies of the optical properties of metal-pliable polymer composite materials. Applied Spectroscopy, 57, 11, 1346-1352 (2003), each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. SERS films can also be tuned somewhat to appropriate localized surface plasmon resonances by altering various parameters such as film thickness and deposition rate, with most thicknesses of metal being between 5-60 nm. See De Jesus, M. A., Giesfeldt, K. S. & Sepaniak, M. J. Factors Affecting the Sorption of Model Environmental Pollutants onto Silver-Polydimethylsiloxane nanocomposite Raman Substrates. Applied Spectroscopy, 58, 10, 1157-1164 (2004), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. SERS substrates of colloidal silver or gold nanoparticles can consistently yield a large signal enhancement, explained by electromagnetic and/or chemical enhancement. See Reilly T. H., Corbman J. D. & Rowlen K. L. Vapor Deposition Method for Sensitivity Studies on Engineered Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering-Active Substrates. Analytical Chemistry, 79, 13, 5078-5081 (2007), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Recently, SERS has been reported as a promising technique for quantitative and qualitative identifications of various targets. See Novikov, S. and Khriachtchev, L. Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering of Silicon Nanocrystals in a Silica Film. Sci. Rep. 6, 27027; doi: 10.1038/srep27027 (2016), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It demonstrated the potential to impact the areas of analytical chemistry, biochemistry, forensics, environmental analysis, and trace analysis.
The SERS approach exhibits a number of advantages for use in low-detection limit drug analysis when compared to other analytical techniques. Due to its ultra-sensitivity, SERS was used to detect trace organic and inorganic analytes in different media. For example, some organophosphorus compounds, such as methylparathiol and dimethoate, that exist in pesticides were identified at the nanogram level. See Szymanski, H. A. Raman Spectroscopy: Theory and Practice. Plenum Press, Buffalo, N.Y., 1967, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Because water molecules scatter weakly in Raman experiments, it has made the SERS approach an attractive choice to conduct useful characterization of samples. See Creighton J. A., Blatchford C. G. & Albrecht M. G. Plasma resonance enhancement of Raman scattering by pyridine adsorbed on silver or gold sol particles of size comparable to the excitation wavelength, Journal of the Chemical Society, Faraday Transactions, 75, 790-798 (1979); Powell, J. A. et al. Programmable SERS active substrates for chemical and biosensing applications using amorphous/crystalline hybrid silicon nanomaterial. Sci. Rep. 6, 19663; doi: 10.1038/srep19663 (2016); and Do{hacek over (g)}an, I. et al. Analysis of temporal evolution of quantum dot surface chemistry by surface-enhanced Raman scattering. Sci. Rep. 6, 29508; doi: 10.1038/srep29508 (2016), each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
However, one of the most challenging tasks in developing an effective analytical SERS based method is the fabrication of the right metal colloid substrate, such as silver, that can exhibit a hotspot within the nanoparticles and subsequently achieve extremely high enhancement. See Aroca, R. F., Alvarez-Puebla, R. A., Pieczonka, N., Sanchez-Cortez, S. and Garcia-Ramos, J. V. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering on colloidal nanostructures. Advances in Colloid and Interface Science, 116, 1-3 45-61 (2005), each incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Since it is required to have more nanoparticles to hook the targeted molecules, the use of a support to load the silver nanoparticles may control the agglomeration that diminishes the enhancement in SERS. Dendrimers, which represent a new class of polymeric nanoscale compounds, are promising candidates for SERS applications due to their homogeneous nature and unique tree-like structure. They have been found to be useful in the health industry, and in pharmaceutical and materials applications. See Abbasi, E. et al. Dendrimers: synthesis, applications, and properties. Nanoscale Research Letters 9, 247-257 (2014), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In addition, dendrimers are considered as one of the most appropriate encapsulating agents for the stabilization of metal nanoparticles (NPs), due to their large size and the presence of a unique three-dimensional architecture of the dendrons that prevents leaching of the NPs during the course of the reaction. See Jiang Y., Gao Q. Heterogeneous Hydrogenation Catalyses over Recyclable Pd(0) Nanoparticle Catalysts Stabilized by PAMAM-SBA-15 Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Composites. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 128, 716-717 (2006), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The polyamidoamine dendrimers are considered the favored choice for pharmaceutical applications, due to their regular structure, large size, and chemical versatility. See Rajesh R., Kumar S. S., & Venkatesan R. Efficient degradation of azo dyes using Ag and Au nanoparticles stabilized on graphene oxide functionalized with PAMAM dendrimers. New J. Chem. 8, 1551-1558 (2014), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Several analytical procedures have been reported for the determination of a methimazole-based drug (also known as 1-methyl-2-mercaptoimidazole and tapazole), which is considered as an antihormone drug widely used to treat hyperthyroidism. These methods include molecularly imprinted biomimetic sensing, fluorescence, thin layer chromatography, coulometry, conductometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. See Pan, M. et al. Molecularly imprinted biomimetic QCM sensor involving a poly(amidoamine) dendrimer as a functional monomer for the highly selective and sensitive determination of methimazole, Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 207, 588-595 (2015); Farzampour L., Amjadi M., Sensitive turn-on fluorescence assay of methimazole based on the fluorescence resonance energy transfer between acridine orange and silver nanoparticles, Journal of Luminescence, 155, 226-230 (2014); Aletrari M., Kanari P., Partassides D., Loizou E., Study of the British Pharmacopeia method on methimazole (thiamazole) content in carbimazole tablets, Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 16, 785-792 (1998); Nikolic K., Velasevic K. Coulometric determination of methimazole, Pharmazie, 42, 698-700 (1987); Berka A., Velasevic K., Nikolic K. Conductometric determination of methimazole, Pharmazie, 44, 499-500 (1989); and Moretti, G. et al. Determination of thyreostatic residues in cattle plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection, Journal of Chromatography: Biomedical Applications, 616, 291-296 (1993), each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. No SERS attempts with the use of graphene dendrimeric-based substrates have been reported to detect low-concentration samples of methimazole ("MTZ").
Other work in this field includes that of Liao X. et al. Au—Ag—Au double shell nanoparticles-based localized surface plasmon resonance and surface-enhanced Raman scattering biosensor for sensitive detection of 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole. Talanta. 117, 203-208 (2013); Ma P. et al. Highly sensitive SERS probe for mercury(II) using cyclodextrin-protected silver nanoparticles functionalized with methimazole. Microchimica Acta. 181, 975-98 (2014); Economou A., Tzanavaras P. D., Notou M. & Themelis D. G. Determination of methimazole and carbimazole by flow-injection with chemiluminescence detection based on the inhibition of the Cu(II)-catalysed luminol-hydrogen peroxide reaction. Analytica Chimica Acta. 505, 129-133 (2004); Sun J. et al. Electrochemical Detection of Methimazole by Capillary Electrophoresis at a Carbon Fiber Microdisk Electrode. Electroanalysis. 17, 1675-1680 (2005); Yazhen W. Electrochemical determination of methimazole based on the acetylene black/chitosan film electrode and its application to rat serum samples. Bioelectrochemistry. 81, 86-90 (2011); Zakrzewski R. Determination of Methimazole in Pharmaceutical Preparations using an HPLC Method Coupled with an Iodine Azide Post-Column Reaction. Journal of Liquid Chromatography & Related Technologies. 32, 383-398 (2009); and Molero L., Faundez M., Valle M. A., del Rio R. & Armijo F. Electrochemistry of methimazole on fluorine-doped tin oxide electrodes and its square-wave voltammetric determination in pharmaceutical formulations. Electrochimica Acta. 88, 871-876 (2013).
In this work the inventors used graphene as a support, modified with a dendrimer, to allow controlled silver nanoparticles to be linked to its branches. The prepared graphene linked with dendrimer-stabilized silver nanoparticles (G-D-Ag) was used as a SERS substrate for MTZ detection.

KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALS


An optical beam splitter arrangement comprising two beam splitter mounts one of which is turnable relative to the other by flexing a deformable connection. By controlling the turn angle of rotation it is possible to use the light reflected by one of the beam splitters to monitor the output power of a laser and to use the light reflected by the other beam splitter to monitor the wavelength transmitted by the laser.

The output of a semiconductor laser will vary over time as the characteristics of the device change, and may also vary in response to changes in temperature, etc. It is important for lasers used in optical communications systems that the laser output is stable with regard to the power and the wavelength of the transmitted light. Known systems that are used for monitoring the wavelength and power level of use interferometers, such as, for example, a Mach-Zehnder interferometer, and consequently are expensive and complex.

Avago Technologies Fiber IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.


A camera viewfinder has a viewfinder lens comprising a plastic lens element with a molded integral aiming circle whose molded optical finish is different than the molded optical finish of the remainder of the lens surface to make the aiming circle visible.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to the field of photography, and in particular to a viewfinder lens for a camera viewfinder.
2. Description of the Prior Art
When taking a picture it is necessary to know not only in what direction to aim the camera but also how much of the subject will be included in the picture. For this reason practically every camera has a viewfinder of some kind.
It is well known to include an aiming circle or cross-hairs in the viewfinder tunnel of a camera. However, these prior art aiming devices existed apart from any viewfinder lens and, therefore, added to the bulk of the camera. More recently, it has become known to mold a lens element for a viewfinder with a lens surface that is integrally textured to have an optically clear finish. After the lens element is constructed an aiming device can be painted or etched on the lens surface. However, this is a time-consuming process.

Viewfinder lens with molded integral aiming circle


A pin plug includes a hollow conductive pin having an opening at one end, an insulation member secured around the pin, a conductive member attached to the insulation member so as not to be contacted with the pin, and a conductor lead of the coaxial cable type and having a core wire which is inserted into the pin through the opening and is electrically and mechanically connected to the pin and shield lines which are electrically connected to the conductive member. A hollow conductive insert is inserted into the pin, and the core wire is inserted into the insert. The insert is crimped and deformed by crimping a predetermined portion of the pin, thereby integrally securing the core wire, insert and pin together and providing an electrical and mechanical connection therebetween.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a pin plug for electrically connecting between various elements, for example, between electronic equipments, between an equipment and an electric power source or between conductor leads. More particularly, the invention relates to a pin plug adapted to be attached to an end of a conductor lead to be connected to a pin jack.
2. Related Background Art
In an example of a conventional pin plug, as shown in FIG. 1, a lower end of a hollow pin 31 is fixedly embedded into a resin insulation member 32 by a resin-injection molding process, and a metal spring sleeve 33 is fitted around an outer peripheral surface of the insulation member 32. A solder material 34 is previously inserted into the pin 31. A core wire 36 of a conductor lead 35 of coaxial cable type is inserted into the pin 31, and shield wires 37 are connected to the spring sleeve 33. Thereafter, the solder material 34 is heated and melted, with the result that the core wire 36 is electrically and mechanically secured to an inner surface of the pin 31. Then, a resin cap 38 is attached so as to surround the metal spring sleeve 33 and the conductor lead 35.
However, the above-mentioned conventional example has the following disadvantages:
(1) Since a soldering operation space for treating the solder material 34 is small, it is difficult to perform the soldering operation, and the soldering operation therefore requires expert skill. Accordingly, there can be uneven strength in the connection between the pin 31 and the core wire 36, resulting in poor conductivity and frequent disconnection of the core wire from the pin. PA1 (2) Harmful gas generating from solder flux during the soldering operation can be a bad influence upon an operator's health. Although flon gas frequently has been used to clean the soldering bath and/or to remove the flux, flon gas has recently been inhibited from use because it destroys the ozone layer. PA1 (3) A process for integrally forming the protruded portion on the pin 31 is troublesome, and it is difficult to automatically perform the engaging operation (for engaging the core wire with the protruded portion) and the caulking or crimping operation, and such operations become unstable frequently, thereby causing uneven or poor mechanical connection and electrical conductivity between the pin and the core wire. PA1 (4) In a further conventional example, core wire 36 is inserted into a hollow portion of pin 31 and the pin 31 itself is deformed so as to contact with the core wire 36 by caulking the pin 31. However, in this case, since an amount of deformation of the pin 31 is limited from the viewpoint of the appearance of the pin, the contact between the pin and the core wire is inadequate, and thus good mechanical connection and electrical conductivity (between the pin and the core wire) cannot be achieved. PA1 (1) Since the crimping operation can be performed by using a punch and the like, the crimping operation can be easily performed uniformly and effectively by any person without expert skill even within a narrow space, in contrast to a soldering operation, the strength of the mechanical connection between the pin and the core wire is stabilized, the electrical conductivity between the pin and the core wire is improved, and disconnection of the core wire from the pin can be prevented, thereby obtaining uniform and high quality articles. PA1 (2) Since there is neither generation of harmful gas from the flux used in a soldering operation nor the need to use flon gas (because the soldering operation can be omitted), the operator's health is not subjected to such dangerous conditions and danger to the ozone layer can be prevented. PA1 (3) Since there is no need to form a protruded portion on the pin to connect the core wire to the pin, the manufacturing process of the pin is simplified. Further, since there is no need to perform the troublesome connection between the protruded portion and the core wire, reliability of the article and operability thereof are improved. PA1 (4) Since the crimping operation is performed after the core wire is inserted into the insert which is previously inserted within the pin, a gap between an outer diameter of the core wire and an inner diameter of the insert becomes very small, with the result that, when the pin is deformed by the crimping operation, the pin is adequately urged against the core wire, thereby not only protecting the appearance of the pin itself but also providing good mechanical connection and electrical conductivity between the pin and the core wire. PA1 (5) Since the large diameter portion of the insert is firmly press-fitted against the inner surface of the pin, during the crimping operation, the insert can be displaced neither in an axial direction nor in a direction perpendicular thereto, with the result that a stable crimping condition can be achieved, thereby providing more stable mechanical connection and electrical conductivity between the pin and the core wire. PA1 (6) Since the inner diameter of the insert corresponds to the outer diameter of the core wire to provide no gap therebetween, there is no place where the core wire escapes during the crimping operation. Thus, the deformed portion of the insert is effectively penetrated into the core wire, thereby providing more stable mechanical connection and electrical conductivity between the core wire and the pin. PA1 (7) With this arrangement, since the two outer diameter portions of the insert having different outer diameters are steppingly press-fitted against the inner surface of the pin, even if there is variation in dimension between an inner diameter of each of the pins and an outer diameter of each of the insert, such variation is accommodated by the two outer diameter portions of the insert, thereby always achieving a good press-fit condition of the insert and providing a more stable construction.
In another conventional example, core wire 36 is engaged with a protruded portion integrally formed with a lower end of pin 31, and the protruded portion is deformed by caulking or crimping to electrically connect the core wire 36 to the pin 31. However, this technique has the following disadvantage:


Novel isolated stem cells derived from pre-term placental tissue and compositions comprising the stem cells are provided as well as use of the compositions for therapy, research and diagnosis. The cells and compositions are useful in treating Myelomeningocele (MCC), spina bifida (SB) or spinal cord injury or paralysis.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating trauma which results in functional impairments varying from motor and sensory dysfunction to irreversible paralysis (Sahni, V. et al. (2010) Nature Reviews Neurology 6:363-372). 1,275,000 Americans suffer from some form of SCI (Paralysis Facts & FIGS. 2010) The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation Paralysis Resource Center) and, depending on the severity of injury and age at injury, lifetime healthcare costs associated with that injury may exceed 4.5 million dollars (Spinal Cord Injury Facts and Figures at a Glance (2012) J. Spinal Cord Med. 35:480-481). Stem cell therapy for SCI with a variety of cell sources has been investigated in numerous preclinical and a few clinical trials (Reier, P. J. (2004) NeuroRx: The Journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics 1:424-451). Despite promising findings in predominantly rodent models (Lu, P. et al. (2012) Cell 150:1264-1273; Busch, S. A. et al. (2011) The Journal of Neuroscience: the Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience 31:944-953; Parr, A. M. et al. (2007) Bone Marrow Transplantation 40:609-619), clinical trials have not yet substantiated the clinical utility of these stem cell therapies. This discrepancy has in part been linked to differences between rodent and higher order mammalian spinal cords, and differences in the severity or mechanism of SCI (Sahni, V. et al. (2010) Nature Reviews Neurology 6:363-372). As discussed below, Applicants' research on a congenital form of SCI is providing critical leads in the search for a clinically relevant, stem cell based therapy or cure for SCI.
Myelomeningocele (MMC), a form of spina bifida (SB), is a devastating birth defect caused by incomplete closure of the neural tube during development. Intrauterine damage to the exposed spinal cord leaves afflicted children with lifelong paralysis, fecal and urinary incontinence, musculoskeletal deformities and cognitive disabilities. Healthcare costs for children with MMC are 13 times greater than those for children without MMC. Even as adults, individuals born with MMC shoulder almost 7 times the medical expenses of peers with no history of MMC (Ouyang, L. et al. (2007) Birth Defects Research Part A: Clinical and Molecular Teratology. 79:552-558). In the US alone, approximately 4 children a day are born with this personally and financially costly disease (Parker, S. E. et al. (2010) Birth Defects Res. A Clin. Mol. Teratol. 88(12):1008-1016). The recent Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) randomized-controlled clinical trial demonstrated that in utero coverage of the spinal cord improves the paralysis of some MMC patients compared to postnatal repair (Adzick, N. S. et al. (2011) N. Engl. J. Med. 364:993-1004). While promising, these improvements were limited and sporadic. Covering the spinal cord may prevent further in utero damage, but simple closure fails to reverse injury incurred prior to repair. In utero stem cell therapy can build upon this surgical advance to cure MMC. The fetal environment contains numerous qualities which can facilitate stem cell therapy. (Tiblad, E. et al. (2008) Best Pract. Res Clin. Obstet. Gynaecol. 22(1):189-201; Flake, A. W. (2004) Best Pract. Res Clin. Obstet. Gynaecol. 18:941-958) Chief among them, the natural receptivity of the gestational environment to remodeling and regeneration of fetal tissues by stem cells. While a diverse array of autologous and allogeneic cells have been investigated for in utero therapy (Flake, A. W. et al. (1999) Blood 94:2179-2191; Roybal, J. L. et al. (2010) Semin. Fetal Neonatal. Med. 15:46-51; Fuchs, J. R. et al. (2003) J. Pediatr. Surg. 2003; 38:984-987; Fuchs, J. R. et al. (2005) Stem Cells 23:958-964; Fuchs, J. R. et al. (2004) J. Pediatr. Surg. 39:834-838; Kaviani, A. et al. (2003) J. Am. Coll. Surg. 196:592-597; Kaviani, A. et al. (2001) J. Pediatr. Surg. 36:1662-1665), substantive advances in cell therapy for MMC have not yet been made.
Thus, a need exists in the art for compositions and method to treat CSI and related disorders. This disclosure satisfies this need and provides related advantages as well.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

The Regents of the University of California


A read circuit for a disc player or the like is provided that can achieve a high-speed data recovery, which can be varied by increasing only a clock speed. The read circuit can include a control signal generating unit receiving a radio frequency signal detected from a disc and outputting first and second control signals to an external circuit and outputting first and second output signals. A level compensating unit receives the first output signal from the control signal generating unit and feeds back a level compensation control signal to the control signal generating unit. A gain compensating unit receives the second output signal from the control signal generating unit to feed back a gain compensation control signal to the control signal generating unit to compensate a gain of the control signal generating unit. A timing control unit receives the second output signal from the control signal generating unit and feeds back a timing control signal to the control signal generating unit.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a read circuit, and more particularly, to a read circuit for data signals recorded/reproduced in a disc player or the like.
2. Background of the Related Art
When a laser beam is scanned onto a disc such as CD, DVD or the like, a disc player converts reflected optical signals to electric signals using a photo sensor. When the photo sensor is divided into 4 sections, the disc player amplifies an output voltage in each of the sections by a preamp. The disc player inputs a radio frequency signal RFSUM in which the amplified signals are superimposed or compounded to a circuit for a radio frequency process. In the radio frequency process circuit, the output signal is restored through a DSP, a decoder, ect., to be displayed on a screen of a display apparatus or recovered as a sound by an audio player.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a read circuit of a related art disc player. As shown in FIG. 1, the read circuit is composed of an automatic gain control (AGC) unit 1 outputting a radio frequency signal RFOUT at a predetermined level, an analog equalizer 2 receiving an output signal from the AGC unit 1 and compensating radio frequency attenuation effects and a 6 bit A/D converter 3 converting an output analog signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2 to a digital signal. A level compensating unit 4 obtains a mid value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2 and compares the value to a predetermined reference value VCM to adjust a level of a mid value of the output signal RFOUT from the AGC unit 1. A gain compensating unit 5 obtains and compares a peak value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2 to a predetermined reference value Vpeak to adjust a gain of the AGC unit 1. A timing control unit 6 detects a speed of an output signal Dout from the A/D converter 3 and controls a sampling time of the A/D converter 3.
The level compensating unit 4 is composed of an integral circuit 4-1, which includes a resistor R11 and a capacitor C11, that obtains a mid value of the output signal EQOUT of the equalizer 2 and a comparator AMP11. The comparator AMP11 compares an output signal from the integral circuit 4-1 and the reference value VCM. The comparator AMP11 adjusts a level of the mid value of the output signal RFOUT from the AGC unit 1 in accordance with the compared result.
The gain compensating unit 5 is composed of a peak value detector 5-1 detecting a peak value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2, a capacitor C12 and a comparator AMP12. The comparator AMP12 adjusts an amplification gain of the AGC unit 1 by comparing an output value from the peak value detector 5-1 to the reference peak value VPEAK and the capacitor C12 stabilizes an output from the comparator AMP12.
The timing control unit 6 is composed of a timing detector 6-1, a low-pass filter 6-2 and a voltage control oscillator 6-3. The timing detector 6-1 detects a frequency of the output signal Dout from the A/D converter 3 and outputs a control signal PU/PD in accordance with the result. The low-pass filter 6-2 converts the output signal PU/PD from the timing detector 6-1 to a direct current voltage. The voltage control oscillator 6-3 is controlled by the direct current voltage from the low-pass filter 6-2 to transmit a sampling clock signal SCLK to the A/D converter 3.
The operation of related art read circuit for the disc player will now be described. First, the radio frequency signal RFSUM is amplified in the AGC unit 1 and outputted as the signal RFOUT at a predetermined level. The output signal RFOUT from the AGC unit 1 is inputted to the equalizer 2 and also inputted to a servo block (not shown) for tracking and focusing control. The equalizer 2 receives the output signal RFOUT and compensates the frequency change. The A/D converter 3 converts the compensated signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2 to a digital signal Dout. As shown in FIG. 2, the equalizer 2 is an analog circuit configured filter with a gain characteristic that is flat in a low frequency range and boosted in a particular frequency range. The gain characteristic is boosted in the particular frequency range to compensate radio frequency effects or elements of 4 electric signals converted in the pickup unit that are attenuated when inputted to the circuit. The frequency and boost characters of the equalizer 2 are controlled by an externally input coefficient data K.
In the level compensating unit 4, the integral circuit 4-1 is composed of the resistor R11 and the capacitor C11. When the integral circuit 4-1 detects the mid value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2, the comparator AMP11 compares the detected mid value to the predetermined reference value VCM to output the comparison result to the AGC unit 1. When the reference value VCM is larger than the mid value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2, the mid value of the output signal RFOUT from the AGC unit 1 is increased. When the reference value VCM is smaller than the mid value of the output signal EQOUT, the mid value of the output signal RFOUT from the AGC unit 1 is decreased.
By having the mid value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2 become the reference value VCM, offsets of a number of amplifiers provided in the AGC unit 1 and the equalizer 2 are eliminated. The capacitor C11 is provided to maintain the stability of a negative feedback loop formed of the AGC unit 1, the equalizer 2 and the level compensating unit 4.
In the gain compensating unit 5, the peak value detector 5-1 detects a peak value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2. The comparator AMP12 compares the output signal EQOUT peak value to the predetermined peak value VPEAK and outputs the comparison result to the AGC unit 1.
When the reference value VPEAK is larger than the peak value of the output signal EQOUT from the equalizer 2, the gain compensating unit 5 increases the gain magnitude of the AGC unit 1. When the reference value VPEAK is smaller than the peak value of the output signal EQOUT, the gain compensating unit 5 decreases the gain magnitude of the AGC unit 1. Accordingly, the AGC unit 1 amplifies the radio frequency signal RFSUM and outputs the signal RFOUT at a constant level.
The capacitor C12 connected with an output terminal of the comparator AMP12 and has a capacity of a few .mu.F. The capacitor C12 is used to maintain the stability of the negative feedback loop of the AGC unit 1, the equalizer 2 and the gain compensating unit 5.
In the timing control unit 6, the timing detector 6-1, the low-pass filter. 6-2 and the voltage control oscillator 6-3 constitute a PLL loop to supply a sampling clock SCLK to the A/D converter 3. The timing detector 6-1 of the timing control unit 6 determines whether a phase of the output signal Dout of the A/D converter 3 is rapid or slow so that the A/D converter 3 may perform a sampling operation with an accurate sampling time at the peak value of the output signal EQOUT of the analog equalizer 2. Thus, the timing detector 6-1 outputs the control signal PU/PD to control the phase of the output signal Dout of the A/D converter 3. The low-pass filter 6-2 outputs a voltage, which is proportional to the signal PU/PD, to the voltage control oscillator 6-3. Thus, the voltage control oscillator 6-3, which is controlled by the voltage supplied from the low-pass filter 6-2, controls the speed of an oscillator frequency and maintains a constant frequency, for example 240 MHz. Thus, the timing control unit 6 modulates a sampling frequency and a phase of the A/D converter 3 to obtain the accurate sampling timing.
As described above, the related art read circuit has various problems. In the related art read circuit of the disc player, the analog equalizer 2 consumes a great deal of power and the power consumption increases as data recovery speed increases, which makes embodying a theoretical characteristic of the analog equalizer 2 difficult. For example, currently over 1W of electric power is consumed to achieve 3x of data recovery speed. Thus, the analog equalizer is difficult to use in a data recovery speed of 4x.
The above references are incorporated by reference herein where appropriate for appropriate teachings of additional or alternative details, features and/or technical background.


A ventilation system comprises a seat, a first fan, and a second fan. The seat has an upholstery part that includes a shaped body. The shaped body has a bearing surface, a rear side opposite the bearing surface, a first opening extending generally from the bearing surface to the rear side, and a second opening. The first fan is coupled to the first opening and is configured to generate a first flow of air generally perpendicular to the bearing surface. The second fan is coupled to second opening and is configured to generate a second flow of air generally transverse to the first flow of air.

Ventilation systems of this type are known. These are used on seat parts and/or backrests for "climatic seats". The ventilation system ensures that air flows through the upholstery part by means of an extractor fan driven by an electric motor, as a result of which a pleasant seat climate is achieved.
A disadvantage of these known ventilation systems is that, when the seat is used, the air cannot flow through an occupied contact zone between the user and the upholstery part. At the very most, the air can be sucked through the remaining free region of the upholstery part. This means that an air passage of approximately 70% based on the entire surface area of the upholstery part is closed. Due to this fact, the climatic effect of the known climatic seats, in particular the effect of conducting away moisture, is greatly impeded.
The present ventilation system is based on the object of providing a ventilation system which significantly improves the climatic effect, in particular the effect of conducting away moisture, even when a seat is occupied.
Further advantageous refinement features of the present ventilation system are hereinafter disclosed.
In the various figures, the parts which are identical are provided with the same reference numbers, so that they are generally only described once in each case.

Ventilation system for an upholstery part


Display panel, light sensing detection method thereof and display device are provided. The display panel includes a plurality of light sensing detection units. A light sensing detection unit of the plurality of light sensing detection units includes a light sensing detection circuit. The light sensing detection circuit corresponding to a same light sensing detection unit includes N light sensing detection branches connected in parallel, a light sensing detection branch of the N light sensing detection branches includes a storage capacitor, and N≥2. The N light sensing detection branches include a first light sensing detection branch and a second light sensing detection branch. The storage capacitor includes a first storage capacitor located in the first light sensing detection branch and a second storage capacitor located in the second light sensing detection branch. A capacitance of the first storage capacitor is greater than a capacitance of the second storage capacitor.

From a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) era to an LCD era, to a now coming OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) era, the display industry has experienced decades of development and has become rapidly changing. A display industry has been closely related to our lives. Devices from conventional mobile phones, tablets, TVs and PCs to electronic devices such as smart wearable devices and VRs are inseparable from display technology.
To meet people's needs, electronic devices can achieve more and more functions. An electronic device is generally provided with a light sensing detection unit for detections, such as optical fingerprint recognition or ambient light detection. In existing products, a sensitivity of the light sensing detection unit is fixed and can only be applied to scenes with a fixed light intensity environment, and an application range is limited.

Shanghai Tianma Micro-Electronics Co., Ltd.


Structures such as layers of material associated with an electronic device may be assembled using adhesive. The adhesive may be dispensed onto the surface of an electronic device layer in liquid form. The liquid adhesive material may be a liquid pressure sensitive adhesive precursor material. Patterned structures such as touch sensor electrodes, black ink masking layers, and other structures may be formed on the electronic device layer. The use of liquid adhesive material may help the adhesive material flow over the edges of the patterned structures without forming bubbles or voids. Following application of the liquid pressure sensitive adhesive precursor material, the liquid pressure sensitive adhesive precursor material may be cured to form a solid layer of pressure sensitive adhesive. The layer of material on which the solid layer of pressure sensitive adhesive has been formed may then be vacuum laminated to an additional electronic device layer.

This relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly, to joining electronic device structures using adhesive.
Adhesives are widely used to assemble components for electronic devices such as computers, cellular telephones, media players, and other electronic equipment. For example, sheets of pressure sensitive adhesive are often used to join planar structures. Planar structures may, for example, be laminated together with pressure sensitive adhesive using lamination equipment. Pressure sensitive adhesive layers are, however, only able to accommodate a limited amount of surface topology. When pressure sensitive adhesive layers are used to join structures with substantial step heights or other abrupt features, there is a risk that bubbles or voids may develop. The risk of bubble formation may be reduced by using softer pressure sensitive adhesive materials, but this tends to weaken bond strength and other desirable properties.
Liquid adhesives can be used to overcome step height discontinuities, because liquid adhesives can flow over abrupt features. However, the process of joining electronic device structures using liquid adhesives is often disfavored because of the challenges associated with using liquid adhesives in a production environment.
It would therefore be desirable to be able to provide improved ways to join structures such as electronic device structures using adhesive.

Methods of joining device structures with adhesive


A parallel connection of an enhancement type nMOS transistor and an enhancement type pMOS transistor is connected between an input terminal receiving a clock signal and a capacitor. The pMOS transistor is turned on and off in dependece on an output of a power supply voltage detector, so that a signal transmission path between the input terminal and the capacitor, as the clock signal is at a high level, has a switched position at a side of the nMOS transistor when the power supply voltage is high, and a switched postiion at a side of the pMOS transistor when the power supply voltage is low. Due to a threshold drop effect of the nMOS transistor, a signal amplitude of a high level is limited to an output level of a limiter minus a threshold voltage of the nMOS transistor, reducing a charge-discharge current of the capacitor.

The present invention relates generally to a voltage step-up circuit, and particularly, to a voltage step-up circuit of a type including a pair of diode-connected MOS field effect transistors serially connected between a power supply terminal and an output terminal of the circuit in a forward direction for conduction from the power supply terminal to the output terminal and a capacitor connected to a serial interconnection between the transistors, so that a charge pump action depending on an externally input periodical signal permits a higher voltage than a power supply voltage to be output.


Asymmetrical absorbent articles having printed regions to facilitate individual placement of the absorbent article are described.

Some commercially-available absorbent articles are extremely long to help manage large volumes of fluid and/or to provide additional coverage for fluid paths depending on the position of the wearer (e.g., lying down). Extra-heavy flow and overnight products can also be asymmetric about their transverse axis, with different geometries and/or fluid management properties associated with the first and second longitudinal ends (e.g., these articles can have a large end and a small end). Due to the length and asymmetry, placement of the article in one's undergarments can be confusing.
Over time, individuals can notice trends of where an absorbent article captures fluid or leaks according to their body type, fluid flow, and typical activities. For example, some individuals may tend to capture fluid or leak towards the front of an absorbent article. Some individuals may discover the opposite. As consumers learn about their needs with the use of a chosen product, they can individualize the placement of the article to best suit their individual fluid management needs. For example, for the consumer that tends to see fluid flow towards the front of the article, they can place the larger end in the front of their undergarment. It would be helpful to consumers to provide a long, asymmetric article with a printed region that does not span the entire length of the article to serve as their personal guide for individual placement. A large portion of commercially-available absorbent articles contain printed regions, but some of the longest and/or asymmetrical products are devoid of printed features. And as discussed above, this represents a long-felt and unmet need. Embodiments of the present invention can address this need.

Absorbent article having a printed region


A description of a continuous conveyor is provided. The continuous conveyor includes a front segment, a central segment and a rear segment. At least the central segment has a conveying device for conveying objects and at least one height-adjustment device for adjusting the height of at least the conveying device from at least one lower, use position for conveying objects into an upper position. In a conveying position, the front segment, the conveying device of the central segment and the rear segment are arranged one behind the other in at least one conveying direction. Provision is made for a free space beneath the conveying device of the central segment in the upper position. The free space has a height of at least 160 cm, a width of at least 70 cm, and a depth corresponding to the width of the conveying device of the central segment.

Very different continuous conveyors, which are also used for very different purposes, are known. In many cases, the continuous conveyors serve to convey objects, which can be wrapped goods and/or items. There are basically no limitations as far as the size, shape and type of such objects are concerned, but the objects in question here are intended to be, in particular, those which can be carried, and handled, by a person. In particular, the objects can be items, such as packages, in particular so-called parcels or packets, which are used separately and are sorted, and distributed, in distribution centres. Packages can be considered here, as required, to be wrapped items.
Objects can be conveyed, in general, for different reasons. For example, the objects can be conveyed for sorting, packaging, labelling, customization or transshipment purposes. Corresponding conveying installations are installed for this purpose, usually in factories or object-conveying facilities. In the case of parcels, use is also made here of so-called distribution centres, in which the parcels are wrapped, sorted and/or distributed. Depending on the task to be accomplished, the conveying system here requires, quite fundamentally, a not inconsiderable amount of space. Since the amount of space available is usually limited and the task of creating space basically also constitutes a not inconsiderable cost factor, the compactness of the conveying installations has to meet increasingly stringent requirements.
In order to render the conveying system ever more compact, it is increasingly common practice to cut back on space for paths on which people can walk through the conveying installations. This can even be tolerated, in principle, since increasingly few staff are required for operating the conveying installations. On the other hand, it is nevertheless necessary for certain installation parts to be accessible for maintenance and repair purposes. Moreover, it has to be ensured that rescue and escape routes are available to a sufficient extent in order to allow people to leave a certain installation region quickly and to allow good accessibility to certain installation parts where accidents involving personal injury can occur. Against this background, there are increasing limits in respect of rendering the conveying system more compact, or more and more outlay is required in order to render the conveying system more compact.

Continuous conveyor for conveying objects, and object-conveying facility having a continuous conveyor


A system and method for controlling inflow of fluid into a production string. In aspects, the invention provides a downhole sand screen and inflow control device with a gas or water shut-off feature that can be operated mechanically or hydraulically from the surface of the well. The device also preferably includes a bypass feature that allows the inflow control device to be closed or bypassed via shifting of a sleeve. In embodiments, the flow control device can be adaptive to changes in wellbore conditions such as chemical make-up, fluid density and temperature. Exemplary adaptive inflow control devices include devices configured to control flow in response to changes in gas/oil ratio, water/oil ratio, fluid density and/or the operating temperature of the inflow control device. In other aspects of the present invention, inflow control devices are utilized to control the flow of commingled fluids drained via two or more wellbores.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to systems and methods for selective control of fluid flow into a production string in a wellbore. In particular aspects, the invention relates to devices and methods for actuating flow control valves in response to increased water or gas content in the production fluids obtained from particular production zones within a wellbore. In other aspects, the invention relates to systems and methods for monitoring flow rate or flow density at completion points and adjusting the flow rate at individual production points in response thereto.
2. Description of the Related Art
During later stages of production of hydrocarbons from a subterranean production zone, water or gas often enters the production fluid, making production less profitable as the production fluid becomes increasingly diluted. For this reason, where there are several completion nipples along a wellbore, it is desired to close off or reduce inflow from those nipples that are located in production zones experiencing significant influx of water and/or gas. It is, therefore, desirable to have a means for controlling the inflow of fluid at a particular location along a production string.
A particular problem arises in horizontal wellbore sections that pass through a single layer of production fluid. If fluid enters the production tubing too quickly, it may draw down the production layer, causing nearby water or gas to be drawn down into the production tubing as well. Inflow control devices are therefore used in association with sand screens to limit the rate of fluid inflow into the production tubing. Typically a number of such inflow governing devices are placed sequentially along the horizontal portion of the production assembly.
The structure and function of inflow control devices is well known. Such devices are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,112,817; 6,112,815; 5,803,179; and 5,435,393. Generally, the inflow control device features a dual-walled tubular housing with one or more inflow passages laterally disposed through the inner wall of the housing. A sand screen surrounds a portion of the tubular housing. Production fluid will enter the sand screen and then must negotiate a tortuous pathway (such as a spiral pathway) between the dual walls to reach the inflow passage(s). The tortuous pathway slows the rate of flow and maintains it in an even manner.
Inflow control devices currently lack an acceptable means for selectively closing off flow into the production tubing in the event that water and/or gas invades the production layer. Additionally, current inflow control devices do not have an acceptable mechanism for bypassing the tortuous pathway, so as to increase the production flow rate. It would be desirable to have a mechanism for selectively closing as well as bypassing the inflow control device.
The present invention addresses the problems of the prior art.

Downhole inflow control device with shut-off feature


A plate fin heat exchanger is disclosed. The heat exchanger includes a plurality of plates defining a set of hot fluid passages between adjacent plates of the plurality of plates and a set of cold fluid passages between adjacent plates of the plurality of plates. A hot fluid inlet and outlet are located at a first face of the heat exchanger. A barrier is located between adjacent plates defining the hot fluid passages. The barrier extends between the adjacent plates and extends from the first face of the heat exchanger at a location between the hot fluid inlet and the hot fluid outlet in a direction perpendicular to the first face, and defines a first pass of hot fluid passages on a first side of the barrier and a second pass of hot fluid passages on a second side of the barrier.

This disclosure relates to heat exchangers, and in particular to a multi-pass plate fin heat exchanger.
Heat exchangers are often used to transfer heat between two fluids. For example, in aircraft environmental control systems, heat exchangers may be used to transfer heat between a relatively hot air source (e.g., bleed air from a gas turbine engine) and a relatively cool air source (e.g., outside air). Some heat exchangers, often referred to as plate fin heat exchangers, include a plate fin core having multiple heat transfer sheets arranged in layers to define air passages there between. Closure bars seal alternating inlets of hot air and cool air inlet sides of the core. Accordingly, hot air and cool air are directed through alternating passages to form alternating layers of hot and cool air within the core. Heat is transferred between the hot and cool air via the heat transfer sheets that separate the layers. In addition, to facilitate heat transfer between the layers, each of the passages can include heat transfer fins, often formed of corrugated material (e.g., steel), that are oriented in a direction of the flow within the passage. The heat transfer fins increase turbulence and surface area that is exposed to the airflow, thereby enhancing heat transfer between the layers.
Bleed air from a gas turbine engine such as on an aircraft is at a high temperature, often in excess of 1000° F. This bleed air is too hot for an ECS air cycle machine to effectively utilize for producing conditioned cabin air, and is also too hot for easy transport from the aircraft engine to ECS air cycle machines typically located in the aircraft wing stem. Accordingly, the bleed air is usually passed through a heat exchanger in a location proximate to the engine. This heat exchanger, often referred to as a precooler, is typically tasked with cooling the bleed air from a temperature in excess of 1000° F. to a temperature below 400° F. Such temperature differences between inlet and outlet temperatures on the heat rejection side of the heat exchanger can subject the heat exchanger to undesirable levels of thermal stress. Additionally, if the heat rejection side of the heat exchanger has multiple passes, the overall large temperature difference will necessitate large temperature differences between adjacent passes in the heat exchanger, which can contribute to reduced heat transfer efficiency from heat being conductively transferred through the pass barrier from a hotter pass closer to the hot side inlet to an adjacent cooler pass closer to the hot side outlet.


DRAM read accessing circuitry having two parallel connected control lines, one of which includes a level translator stage and the other of which includes an enable gate. Both the level translator stage and the enable gate are connected to receive 0.0 to 3 volt small logic swings from output buffer logic utilized in reading data out of the DRAM. Output signals from the level translator stage are applied to a pull up output transistor in an output driver stage, and output signals from the enable gate are connected to a pull down output transistor in the output driver stage. A feedback connection is provided between the output of the level translator stage and one input to the enable gate to ensure that the enable gate does not generate an enabling output signal for turning on the pull down output transistor until the pull up output transistor is completely turned off. Not only does this novel operation completely eliminate crossing or crossover currents in the output driver stage, but it also introduces minimum time delays in logic swings at the output node of the output driver stage.

Many different types of circuits and systems have been developed in the past for reading and writing data into a DRAM which comprises a predetermined number of rows and columns of individual memory cells. One such system is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,148,546, entitled "Method and System for Minimizing Power Demands on Portable Computers and the Like by Refreshing Selected DRAM Ceils" and issued to Greg A. Blodgett. This patent is assigned to the present assignee and is incorporated herein by reference.
In the past, it was customary to use the conventional 0.0 and 5 volt digital logic levels to define the logic swing for accessing these DRAM cells. More recently, DRAM access level translating circuitry has been developed which operates to convert the above 0.0 to 5 volt logic swing down to 3 volts used in switching these access transistors in order to conserve power in the DRAM. This level translating circuitry also serves to reduce certain metal-oxide-silicon (MOS) processing requirements, such as reducing MOS gate oxide thicknesses which were required to handle to the larger 0.0 to 5 volt logic swing. Thus, this level translating circuitry is operative to convert the 0.0 to 5 volt logic swing to a 0.0 to 3 volt logic swing prior to writing data into the DRAM. Further the level translator circuit is operative to convert the 0.0 to 3 volt logic swing back to a 0.0 to 5 volt logic swing in the process of reading data from the DRAM and applying it to external circuitry to boost a gate voltage of an NPN output buffer transistor in order to drive a full supply potential of the output buffer to an output node. In the present example if V.sub.cc is 3 volts the gate voltage is boosted to 5 volts by a level translator. In a further example if V.sub.cc is 5 volts the gate voltage is boosted to 7 volts.
This level translating circuitry is normally connected in one of two signal paths used for reading data from a DRAM and when operating in the well known "Extended Data Out" mode for video RAMs (VRAMs) or for synchronous DRAMs or "SDRAMs". Using this mode of operation, the elimination of crossing currents in output MOS buffer transistors is particularly critical since the output data can switch states with no shut off period in between.
Access circuitry for reading data from the DRAM will typically include a large plurality of data channels, e.g. sixteen, each of which includes a pair of parallel connected data processing control lines or paths. One of these paths will include the above level translating stage used for converting the 3 volt logic swing to a 5 volt logic swing and then applying it to an output pull up MOS buffer transistor. This output pull up MOS transistor is normally connected in series to an MOS pull down transistor and between a V.sub.cc supply voltage and ground potential. The common node interconnecting the pull up and the pull down transistors is the point where the output signal from each channel is taken, and the pull down transistor is connected to be driven by the second control line or signal processing path which in turn is connected in parallel with the level translating stage.
These level translating stages in each read channel introduce time delays into the signals being processed in this one signal path of each channel and thereby make it necessary to introduce an even longer time delay in the other parallel signal path of each signal channel which feeds the pull down MOS transistor in the output driver stage. This latter requirement is necessary in order to ensure that the above pull up and pull down transistors in the output driver stage are not conducting at the same time, and that their crossing or cross-over currents are minimized or eliminated.
The problem and disadvantage of using fixed delays in this other parallel signal path or control line driving the pull down transistor is that these fixed delays must always be longer than actually required in order to ensure that the pull down transistor is never turned on until the pull up transistor is completely turned off. This latter requirement is necessary as a result of variations in MOS wafer processing and MOS process tolerances, and it represents an undesirable time delay in accessing the DRAM. It also imposes an undesirable limitation on the maximum achievable switching speeds and data processing capability for this access circuitry. Accordingly, it is the solution to the above problems to which the present invention is directed.

Read circuit for accessing dynamic random access memories (DRAMS)


Trunk piston marine engine lubrication, when the engine is fueled by heavy fuel oil, is effected by a composition of TBN in the range of 20 to 60 comprising a major amount of an oil of lubricating viscosity containing 50 mass % or more of a Group 1 basestock, and respective minor amounts of a calcium alkyl salicylate detergent system providing 40 to 90 mmol of calcium alkyl salicylate per kg of the composition, and 1 to 7 mass %, based on the mass of the composition, of an oil-soluble polyalkenyl-substituted carboxylic acid anhydride, wherein the or at least one polyalkenyl group is derived from a polyalkene having a number average molecular weight of from 200 to 3,000. Asphaltene precipitation in the lubricant, caused by the presence of contaminant heavy fuel oil, is prevented or inhibited.

Marine trunk piston engines generally use Heavy Fuel Oil ('HFO') for offshore running. Heavy Fuel Oil is the heaviest fraction of petroleum distillate and comprises a complex mixture of molecules including up to 15% of asphaltenes, defined as the fraction of petroleum distillate that is insoluble in an excess of aliphatic hydrocarbon (e.g. heptane) but which is soluble in aromatic solvents (e.g. toluene). Asphaltenes can enter the engine lubricant as contaminants either via the cylinder or the fuel pumps and injectors, and asphaltene precipitation can then occur, manifested in 'black paint' or 'black sludge' in the engine. The presence of such carbonaceous deposits on a piston surface can act as an insulating layer which can result in the formation of cracks that then propagate through the piston. If a crack travels through the piston, hot combustion gases can enter the crankcase, possibly resulting in a crankcase explosion.
It is therefore highly desirable that trunk piston engine oils ('TPEO's) prevent or inhibit asphaltene precipitation. The prior art describes ways of doing this.
WO 2010/115594 ("594") and WO 2010/115595 ("595") describe the use, in trunk piston marine engine lubricating oil compositions that contain 50 mass % or more of a Group II basestock, of respective minor amounts of a calcium salicylate detergent and of a polyalkenyl-substituted carboxylic and anhydride. The data in "594" and "595" show that the combination gives rise to improved asphaltene dispersancy.
"594" and "595" are not, however, concerned with the economics of treating TPEO's to inhibit 'black paint' formation when a Group I base oil is used. A considerable cost arises from the amount of detergent soap that is used, i.e. the detergent other than the basic material. It is now found that, by using relatively small additions of the above anhydride, it is possible to achieve good asphaltene dispersancy properties at lower, and therefore more economic levels, of soap.


An acrylic-based aqueous adhesive comprises acrylic polymer, propylene glycol, calcium carbonate, organic defoamer, biocide, hydrocarbon solvent, thickener, sand, and water.

This inventive formulation is generally considered a "contact adhesive;" i.e., it is applied to at least one of the surfaces of the items to be adhered together, and the items are thereafter brought into contact under pressure. The adhesive hardens to form an adhesive layer intermediate the items, thus forming a durable bond therebetween.
Adhesives are well-known in the construction industry as useful for bonding building panels to a wooden substrate. Many conventional adhesives, however, experience shrinkage, and thus allow delamination of the panels away from the wooden building substrate.
It would be desirable to prepare an acrylic-based aqueous adhesive which would resist shrinkage and delamination.


A loaded condition plotting method capable of simultaneously and promptly recognizing a motor loaded current value and a point being machined with accuracy is provided. During the cutting operation using a spindle motor controllable by a numeric control system executing a machining program, there is decided one region under which a spindle motor load current value periodically detected falls, among four regions consisting of a first region where the spindle motor load current value is less than 80% of the spindle motor rated current, a second region of 80% or more and less than 100%, a third region of 100% or more and less than 130%, and a fourth region of 130% or more. On a plotting image sections of the tool locus determined in accordance with the machining program appear with a workpiece configuration and a tool, the sections being correspondingly plotted in blue when the detected current value is within the first region, in green with the second region, in yellow with the third region, and in red with the fourth region.

In the known prior art, during the cutting operation using a motor controllable by a numerical control system as the drive source, a load current flowing through the motor is displayed in the form of a bar graph, or alternatively the fluctuation waveform of the motor load current with a lapse of time is displayed in a graph so that the operator can grasp the cutting state. When the motor load current is displayed in a bar graph, the operator reads a point being machined from the abscissa of the graph while reading a motor load current value shown in the ordinate of the graph, to verify the motor load current values at various machined points, thereby grasping the cutting state. Also, in the case where the fluctuation waveform of the motor load current is displayed in a graph, the cutting state can be grasped based on the elapsed time (corresponding to the machined point) and the motor load current value, respectively shown along the axis of abscissas and axis of ordinates of the graph.
According to the conventional loaded condition plotting method, it is, however, difficult in that the operator must simultaneously and promptly grasp the motor load current value and the point being machined with accuracy. Due to this, even though a disorder is found in the motor load current value, the operator cannot promptly judge the machined point where such disorder has occurred.


A wheel on a vehicle having a flat tire may be protected by attaching a first semi-cylindrical shell having a first planar end to the wheel, and attaching a second semi-cylindrical shell to the first semi-cylindrical shell. The first semi-cylindrical shell and the second semi-cylindrical shell are secured together so as to form a cylindrical shell of diameter having a cylindrical wall which covers a tread surface of the flat tire. The first semi-cylindrical shell is attached to the wheel to cover a first portion of a tread surface of the flat tire; and, after attaching the first semi-cylindrical shell, the wheel is rotated. The first portion of the tread surface does not contact a ground surface prior to the rotation step, but does contact a ground surface through the first semi-cylindrical shell after the rotation step. A connector for connecting the semi-cylindrical shells to the wheel is also disclosed.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to the field of spare tires, and more particularly to spare tires that can be used to protect the wheel or wheel rim of a vehicle without requiring removal of the flat tire from the vehicle.
2. Description of Related Art
One of the most common maintenance procedures that a driver must perform is changing a flat tire. To change a flat, a driver must typically execute the following steps remove the lug nuts securing the wheel carrying the flat tire to the vehicle; remove the wheel from the vehicle; position a spare wheel bearing a flat tire on the vehicle; and secure the spare wheel to the vehicle by replacing the lug nuts.
Various attempts have been made to provide a substitute for the traditional spare tire. A wide variety of modular spare tires comprised of a plurality of connecting segments have been proposed. In most cases, however, the original flat tire must still be removed from the vehicle, requiring a hazardous step of jacking up the vehicle. In other cases, the original flat tire is not replaced, but is supplemented by a spare tire system which rides alongside the outer surface of the tire, greatly increasing tire width. Additionally, some cars have wheel wells which may not be deep enough to allow for such excess tire width.
There remains a need for a lightweight spare tire that can be mounted on a vehicle without a need for changing the flat. Preferably, a typical driver should be able to install the lightweight spare tire with a minimum of tools and effort.


An information processing system and an electronic message notification method for an information processing system automatically change an incoming account for which an electronic message reception notification is made. An information processing system includes an information terminal provided with a communication function and an in-vehicle device. The information terminal receives an electronic message from the exterior in a corresponding incoming account; configures an incoming account for making a notification of the reception of an electronic message; and when an electronic message has been received by the configured incoming account, notifies the in-vehicle device. The in-vehicle device determines whether or not an electronic message has been distributed to the information terminal from a specific partner; and, if so, changes the configuration of the configuration unit so that a notification that the electronic message has been received from the specific partner is made.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to information processing systems and electronic message notification methods for information processing systems, and particularly relates to methods for notifying an electronic device of an electronic message that has been received by an information terminal such as a mobile telephone. 2. Description of the Related Art
Electronic devices installed in vehicles (called "in-vehicle devices" hereinafter) typically include functions for receiving television broadcasts and radio broadcasts, functions for playing back video and audio, and so on, in addition to navigation functions. Various types of services can be used by connecting such an in-vehicle device to a network or the like. For example, real-time traffic information, information of a route to a destination, or the like can be obtained by connecting the in-vehicle device to a traffic information distribution server, or updated map data can be obtained by connecting the in-vehicle device to a map distribution server; the obtained information can be used in the navigation function. Furthermore, there are also services that embed necessary information in electronic messages and distribute those electronic messages to in-vehicle devices.
In the case where an in-vehicle device is provided with a communication function, the in-vehicle device itself is provided with a data communication function, or the in-vehicle device is externally connected to a mobile telephone or the like that includes a data communication function. In recent years, multi-functionality, higher levels of performance, and higher speeds are being implemented in mobile telephones, as exemplified by smartphones; and there is demand for the ability to use functions provided in such smartphones in in-vehicle devices.
According to JP-2006-107421A, in a system that connects a mobile terminal to an in-vehicle device, it is determined whether or not an e-mail received by the mobile terminal from a server is an information liaison e-mail, and in the case where the e-mail is an information liaison e-mail, the information liaison e-mail is forwarded to the in-vehicle device. This eliminates a burden on the user when accepting the provision of a service.
What is known as an "operator service" is a way in which the in-vehicle device connects to a network or the like and receives the provision of various types of services. It is difficult for a driver to make input operations while driving, and thus this service allows the driver to speak with an operator through a hands-free call, whereupon the operator distributes necessary or useful information via an electronic message. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a user uses a hands-free kit 510 installed in an in-vehicle device 500 to call an operator 530 via a mobile telephone 520 and inform the operator 530 of the location the user wishes to travel to through voice communication. Upon doing so, the operator 530 creates an electronic message 540 including destination information regarding a destination (the name of the destination, the latitude and longitude, the telephone number of the destination, and so on), and distributes the created electronic message 540 to the mobile telephone 520 from an electronic message distribution server. The distributed electronic message 540 is received by the mobile telephone 520 and is then forwarded from the mobile telephone 520 to the in-vehicle device 500. The in-vehicle device 500 analyzes the received electronic message 540, extracts the destination information included therein, and sets the destination for navigation using the destination information.
However, a problem such as that described hereinafter exists when using this type of operator service. As described above, in the case where the destination information is distributed to the in-vehicle device 500 through the electronic message 540, the electronic message 540 is sent to the mobile telephone 520 from the electronic message distribution server in a predetermined format, such as an SMS (Short Message Service) that is made up of a set number of characters. The in-vehicle device 500 and the mobile telephone 520 are connected through close-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth, and thus in order for the mobile telephone 520 to notify the in-vehicle device 500 that an electronic message has been received, it is necessary to configure a profile, such as a MAP (Message Access Profile), provided in the mobile telephone 520. In other words, although the mobile telephone 520 can receive electronic messages in multiple formats, a profile such as MAP limits the number of incoming accounts for which the in-vehicle device 500 can be notified of reception (for example, only one account can be configured), and thus the in-vehicle device cannot be notified of the reception of an electronic message received in an account aside from the configured incoming account. For example, if the incoming account for which a reception notification is to be made is configured for e-mail in the mobile telephone 520, when an SMS electronic message, which is in a different format than e-mail, is sent to the mobile telephone 520 through the operator service, the in-vehicle device 500 is not notified of the SMS electronic message reception by the mobile telephone 520. The user thus cannot know whether an SMS electronic message has been distributed, or in other words, cannot receive the information through the operator service.
Thus with past techniques, even if an electronic message (such as an SMS) sent through an operator service has been successfully received by a mobile telephone, if the incoming account in the mobile telephone that is used for reception notification does not match (for example, it is configured for e-mail), the user cannot know that an electronic message from the operator service has been received, and thus cannot use that service. While a notification that an electronic message from the operator service has been received can be provided if the incoming account in the mobile telephone that is used for reception notification (for example, SMS) is caused to match the incoming account for electronic messages from the operator service, new message notifications cannot be provided to the user for a different account used as a primary account (for example, an e-mail account). Furthermore, forcing the user to carry out the complicated operations for changing the incoming account used for reception notification every time increases the burden on the user.
To solve the stated past problems, it is an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide an information processing system capable of automatically changing an incoming account for making a notification regarding the reception of an electronic message, and an electronic message notification method for such an information processing system.

Information processing system and electronic message notification method for information processing system


A wraparound battery cover (10) which slidably attaches to the lower portion (24) of a housing (20) is provided. The radio cover comprises a front side (12) and a rear side (14) joined by a gripping portion (15). Locking pegs (21) snap-fit into corresponding openings (11) in the battery cover. A plurality of gripping surfaces (19) are provided upon the gripping portion (15) of the cover. Upon full engagment of the battery cover to the housing, the battery cover wraps around five sides of the housing, with the rear side covering a battery containment section (26) of the housing. The battery cover is easily removed from the housing by pulling the cover and the housing in opposite directions perpendicular to the direction of battery insertion.

Battery-powered electrical products generally contain a section into which a battery is inserted, the section having therein electrical contacts for contacting the battery and coupling it to electrical circuits within the product. Such battery sections have an opening through which the battery is inserted into the housing and a cover for covering the opening to prevent the battery from dislodging from the battery section. Although reference is made to a battery, it will be appreciated that the same is true of products which incorporate more than one battery, and any references to "a battery" herein are intended to imply one or more batteries.
In commonly available portable consumer products, such as two-way radios and pagers, a variety of attachment means are employed to secure the battery door to the product casing or housing. Commonly, locking mechanisms are incorporated to prevent the battery cover from unexpectedly opening and/or detaching from the product; for example, when the product is inadvertently dropped to the ground. Such locking mechanisms are often provided as a supplementary attachment where a primary attachment means, such as a latch, may not provide adequate protection when the product is dropped. Products which do not incorporate such locking mechanisms are generally more prone to opening when the product is subject to an unexpected impact, due to the loading on the battery door caused by the battery. Although supplementary locking mechanisms may ensure adequate attachment, they result in additional component and manufacturing costs. In addition, such mechanisms often add to the complexity of the product.
In light of the above, what is needed is a battery cover which may be easily attached and removed from a battery housing without the need for a secondary locking mechanism. Furthermore, the cover should be able to withstand the impact from an accidental drop without opening.


A method for the artifact correction of three-dimensional volume image data of an object is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method includes receiving first volume image data via a first interface, the first volume image data being based on projection measurement data acquired via a computed tomography device, the computed tomography device including a system axis, and the first volume image data including an artifact including high-frequency first portions in a direction of a system axis and including second portions, being low-frequency relative to the high-frequency first portions, in a plane perpendicular to the system axis; ascertaining, via a computing unit, artifact-corrected second volume image data by applying a trained function to the first volume image data received; and outputting the artifact-corrected second volume image data via a second interface.

Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging method which is used primarily for medical diagnosis. In computed tomography, for the acquisition of spatially three-dimensional volume image data, an X-ray tube, as well as an X-ray detector interacting with said X-ray tube, rotate around an object to be examined. For this purpose, in a computed tomography device (CT device), the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector are arranged on a rotating assembly or rotor, which during operation of the CT device performs a rotational movement around an axis, along which the object to be mapped is positioned. This axis is generally also referred to by the person skilled in the art as a system axis or as the z axis of the CT device. Nowadays, spiral and/or multi-slice CT devices are used in this context in medical imaging as a rule. In a spiral CT, the object experiences a continuous feed through the CT device, while X-ray tube and X-ray detector steadily rotate around the object. The X-ray beam of the X-ray tube thus describes a continuous spiral around the object. The term multi-slice or multi-row CT refers to the X-ray detector used, which does not only comprise one row or line of detector elements, but rather a plurality of rows or lines lying adjacent to one another in the direction of the system axis, meaning that a plurality of slices of the object are simultaneously acquired for each orbit of the X-ray tube.
During the rotational movement of the X-ray tube, projection measurement data is acquired via the X-ray detector for a plurality of angular directions. The projection measurement data involves a projection or a plurality of projections, which contain information regarding the attenuation of the radiation through the examination object for the respective angular direction. The projection measurement data is also referred to as raw data or as a raw data set. From this projection measurement data, it is subsequently possible for two-dimensional sectional image data or three-dimensional volume image data of the examination object to be reconstructed or calculated, for example by way of what is known as a filtered back projection method (FBP).
One prominent example of an artifact in CT imaging is what is known as the "windmill artifact". In particular, such a windmill artifact is characterized by high-frequency portions in the volume image data in the direction of the system axis and portions in the image plane perpendicular to the system axis which are low-frequency in relation thereto.
The windmill artifact occurs as part of multi-slice spiral CT imaging and results from the sub-sampling by the specified detector elements in the z direction which is intrinsically inherent with the X-ray detector and thus from the non-fulfillment of the Shannon sampling theorem along the system axis. In this context, a windmill artifact occurs in particular in connection with high-contrast jumps along the system axis, i.e. in the presence of a strong gradient in the X-ray contrast in the object to be acquired in the direction of the system axis. This may be caused by adjacent materials in the object with strongly differing absorption behavior for X-ray radiation, such as in the region of the vertebral body of the spinal column of a patient.
Solution approaches lie in the reconstruction of thicker slices, for example, wherein by way of the suitable combination of detector rows lying adjacent to one another in the direction of the system axis, the sampling theorem can be fulfilled. This, however, is associated with a loss in image resolution in the direction of the system axis. Furthermore, a CT device with what is known as a "spring focus" in the direction of the system axis can be used. In this context, every second acquisition of a raw data set is shifted in the direction of the system axis by the width of half a detector row, and thus the sampling theorem is approximately fulfilled. The disadvantage of this is in particular the very high structural outlay. Furthermore, measures may be used which work on the basis of the already-reconstructed image data and, for example, remove or reduce the artifacts from the volume image data by non-linear filters. In this context, an optimum adjustment of the filter parameters is important for an effective and error-free correction of the image data. The disadvantage is that other structures in the object, which have a similar signature, are likewise filtered and thus image information is lost. One example of such a filter method is known from the publication WO 2011/042821 A1 or from "Method for Reducing Windmill Artifacts in Multi-Slice CT" by K. M. Brown et al. (Proc. of SPIE, vol. 7961, 79611P, https://doi.org/10.1117/12.877437).
One further prominent example of an artifact is what is known as a "cone beam artifact". When using a cone beam of the X-ray tube for the exposure of a multi-slice X-ray detector, the slice planes are inclined. The larger the number of detector slices or detector rows, the greater the inclination of the slice planes of the projection measurement data in the edge regions. By way of mathematical simplifications introduced into the reconstruction, this may lead to a cone beam artifact, which likewise has higher-frequency portions in the image data in the direction of the system axis and portions in the plane of the image data perpendicular to the system axis which are low-frequency in relation thereto.

Method for the artifact correction of three-dimensional volume image data


A viewfinder for aiding an artist in the creation of a work of art is provided. The viewfinder includes a frame that carries a first door. The first door is configured for moving with respect to the frame. A second door is provided and is also carried by the frame. The second door is configured for being moved with respect to the frame. At least one of the first door, second door and frame define a subject area for use in the creation of a work of art. Other exemplary embodiments exist that include a light filter, reducing lens and/or a grid.

The creation of works of art, such as through painting or drawing, is a common commercial and leisure activity. An artist often creates a work while viewing a particular subject either in his or her studio or outdoors. Various techniques are known for aiding the artist in creation of a particular work.
One method of assisting artists involves the use of a sighting grid. Such grids generally include a plurality of intersecting horizontal and vertical lines. The artist may view an image through the grid as the areas between the intersecting horizontal and vertical lines are either open or are made of a transparent material. Next, the artist can apply a similarly proportioned grid to the drawing or painting surface. The artist may more easily paint or draw the image onto the working surface as the grid breaks the image up into smaller, more manageable portions. Further, the grid assists the artist in visualizing three dimensional form and perspective as a two dimensional shape for a better result upon transfer of the image to the working surface.
Another technique used by artists is employed when an artist desires to reproduce the natural color of an image while working in a color medium. In order to accurately reproduce the color of such an image the artist must determine the value of the image. The value of the image refers to the amount of light reflectance from the image and, as such, may be described as its level of lightness or darkness. A known method of ascertaining the value of the studied image involves viewing the image through a light filter such as a green light filter. The green light filter may be a piece of green, transparent plastic that acts to turn the various colors of the viewed image into shades of green. Upon creation of such a monotone image, the artist may more easily distinguish the various values of the colors for use in making a more accurate reproduction on the working surface.
An additional method used by artists in the creation of a work involves framing of the image. Here, the artist uses an object such as a viewing frame to better visualize how the image will look once put onto the working surface. The frame acts to block out undesired objects in the artist's field of vision and hence allows the artist to better concentrate on the desired subject. Upon the absence of a frame, the artist may use his or her fingers to frame the image. Although useful when creating a work of art from a photograph, the use of a frame is especially helpful when making a plein air painting as the artist's vision is normally overloaded from the surrounding environment.
Although previous devices are known for aiding an artist in the creation of a work, they are limited to assisting with only one technique. Further, other devices are cumbersome and do not optimize the particular employed method of assisting the artist. As such, there remains room for variation and improvement within the art.


Exemplary presses, e.g., for applying indicia to garments by application of heat, are disclosed. For example, a press may include an upper platen, and a lower platen disposed below and generally aligned with the upper platen. The press may further include a support head adapted to move the upper platen between an open position, wherein the upper and lower platens are spaced away from one another, and a closed position, wherein the upper platen is pressed against the lower platen. Exemplary presses may further include a stand supporting the press.

Heat applied transfers include a variety of indicia with inks, material layers, and adhesives that become bonded to material layers, for example, apparel such as shirts, jackets, or the like, upon pressurized contact and heating of the transfers and apparel between press platens. Graphic images and lettering may generally be accurately and quickly transferred to the apparel without bleeding or partial interruptions in the bonding of the transfer, as long as the presses can be operated at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time and at a predetermined pressure.
The presses must be able to accommodate many variations in the arrangement of transfers and apparel, as well as the types of transfers and apparel materials available. Moreover, the presses must accommodate a wide variety of temperatures, pressures, and time intervals associated with application of indicia to a garment. Due to the need for flexibility and economic factors, presses have traditionally been manually operated, i.e., they rely on a user (e.g., an operator) to control at least (a) the force applied through the platens and (b) the length of time the force is applied with a mechanical apparatus.
The accuracy and precision of the temperature, the pressure and the time duration for which these parameters are applied to the transfers are particularly important to complete an efficient bonding of the transfers to materials, and are difficult to accomplish in an accurate and repeatable manner. In particular, depending upon materials and the structure of the indicia to be applied to the apparel, indicia may be subject to inconsistent application conditions throughout the surface of apparel to which the transfer is applied. For example, the application of excessive pressure between the platen pressing surfaces may cause bleeding of the colors, while insufficient pressure may result in blotched or unattached areas where the indicia failed to adhere completely to the garment.
Some basic controls have been employed more recently in some presses, e.g., a timer or sensor to detect an amount of time or magnitude of an applied force, respectively. However, these controls have not solved the essential difficulty of controlling the time or pressure under which heat is actually applied to a garment. For example, difficulties in adjusting timing or pressure settings tends to encourage operators to avoid adjustments even for garments where such adjustments are critical, e.g., between stages of a process where different pressures or timing is needed. Additionally, press operators may tend to go by their "feel", given their experience, to apply an appropriate amount of pressure. Moreover, there is often a lack of consistency with the same press operator, let alone differences between different presses and press operators.
Known presses are typically relatively large and heavy, and thus operators typically will mount the presses on large tables or stands. Even as presses have become smaller and in some cases more portable, known press stands remain bulky in order to provide adequate stability for the press.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved press for applying a platen to adhere graphic images or foils to textiles or substrates with a more consistent and repeatable force that facilitates easy adjustments. Additionally, there is a need for an improved press that applies a given force accurately over multiple time intervals. Moreover, there is a need for an improved press that allows accurate application of a force and/or time interval, while also allowing variation of the force and/or time.

Threadable heat transfer press with adjustable stand