A front access door suitable for accessing and enclosing a housing within a multipoise furnace functions in conjunction with a safety shutoff switch to provide greater access and safety when assembling and servicing the furnace. The front access door is hingably supported upon the bottom wall of the housing for removal from the furnace and rotation between a closed position and an opened position. The shutoff switch is mounted outside the housing on the top housing wall. When the access door moves into a closed position, a switch activator, mounted to the access door, passes over the top housing wall and closes the switch, thereby allowing power to flow to a blower within the housing. When the access door is moved into an open position, the switch activator opens the switch, thereby terminating power to the blower.

This invention relates to a multipoise furnace and, specifically, to a hinged front access door and a safety shutoff switch within a multipoise furnace.
The term multipoise furnace, as herein used, refers to a furnace that can be positioned on either its bottom, top, left side or right side such that the furnace may discharge air in either an upward or downward direction, as well as horizontally to the left or to the right. While most furnaces that may be installed in different positions require extensive modifications when changing orientation, the ability to selectively position a the multipoise furnace exists without modification.
A multipoise furnace includes a blower that draws return air from a comfort zone into a blower housing and forces the air throughout the furnace. Access into the blower housing typically has been achieved by providing an access door that is permanently attached to the furnace. Such an access door, however, may restrict complete access to the blower and complicate assembly of the furnace.
Also associated with the blower housing is the safety shutoff switch. Upon opening the access door, the shutoff switch terminates power to the furnace's control center, causing all components to become temporarily inoperative. If the switch fails to render the blower inoperative, maintenance becomes dangerous as the technician is exposed to an operating blower and its power supply. Furthermore, if the switch fails or does not terminate power immediately upon opening the access door, inefficient operation and early deterioration of the furnace results as unfiltered air enters and deposits throughout the furnace. Failure of the shutoff switch to properly terminate blower operation, however, exists as a probable result when placement of the switch within the housing exposes it to grease, dirt, and the possibility of accidental activation when working within the housing.

Hinged blower access door with blower switch activation


A container format processing tool performs syntax-aware manipulation of hierarchically organized syntax elements defined according to a container format in a media file. For example, a container format verifier checks conformance of a media file to a container format, which can help ensure interoperability between diverse sources of media content and playback equipment. Conformance verification can include verification of individual syntax elements, cross-verification, verification that any mandatory syntax elements are present and/or verification of synchronization. Or, a container format “fuzzer” simulates corruption of a media file, which can help test the resilience of playback equipment to errors in the media files. The container format fuzzer can simulate random bit flipping errors, an audio recording failure or incorrect termination of recording. Or, a container format editor can otherwise edit the media file in the container format.

Engineers use compression (also called source coding or source encoding) to reduce the bit rate of digital media content. Compression decreases the cost of storing and transmitting media information by converting the information into a lower bit rate form. Decompression (also called decoding) reconstructs a version of the original information from the compressed form. A "codec" is an encoder/decoder system. Over the last two decades, various video codec standards and formats have been adopted, and various audio codec standards and formats have been adopted. A codec standard or format typically defines options for the syntax of an encoded media bitstream (sometimes called an elementary media bitstream), detailing parameters in the elementary media bitstream when particular features are used in encoding and decoding. In many cases, a codec standard or format also provides details about the decoding operations a decoder should perform to achieve correct results in decoding.
A media container format specifies how to organize encoded media content for storage, transmission, etc. A media container format can specify metadata about the encoded media content, timing information, digital rights management information, error correction information or other information. Various container formats have been promulgated for multimedia content, including MPEG-2 TS/PS, Advanced Systems Format ("ASF") (formerly Advanced Streaming Format), MPEG-4 ("MP4") as defined in ISO/IEC 14496-12 (ISO base media file format), 14496-14 (MP4 file format) and 14496-15 (AVC file format), Common File Format ("CFF") and Matroska Video Format ("MKV"). The specification for a container format such as MP4 or CFF defines how to organize encoded media content and add metadata for encoded media content so that a media file is conformant with the container format. A container format specification typically defines options for the syntax of a media file in the container format, detailing the meaning and organization of parameters in the media file when particular features are used. In some cases, a container format specification may also provide details about operations to be performed by a container format sink or container format source. A container format sink puts encoded media content in an elementary media bitstream (e.g., from a media encoder such as an audio encoder or video encoder) into a media file according to a container format. A container format source parses the media file in the container format and provides the elementary media bitstream to a media decoder for decoding.
Every day, millions of media files in container formats are produced by diverse sources. Even more media files in container formats are consumed by different users through assorted activities. In some cases, a media file in a container format is corrupted due to random bit flips during streaming or conferencing. Or, a media file may be corrupted due to a storage failure, due to improper recording with a smartphone or for another reason. For many recent container formats, however, existing tools do not provide sufficient means to verify the conformance of media files to the container formats or at least identify corrupted file containers, nor do they provide sufficient means to alter elements of media files in order to test the resilience of playback equipment to errors in the media files.

Syntax-aware manipulation of media files in a container format


Systems and methods are provided for distributing content such as audio, video, and text files to users over a communications network such as the Internet. Content owners may store content items at content provider computers. A catalog provider computer may be used to host a catalog that lists the various content items available from the content owners. Vendors having vendor websites operating on vendor computers may view the content information in the catalog to determine which content items to offer on the websites. Users may select a desired content item to purchase at a vendor's website. When a user clicks on an appropriate purchase option, a micropayment service provider computer handles the purchase transaction. The purchased content item may then be delivered to the user from an appropriate one of the content provider computers.

This application relates to selling and distributing on-line content, and more particularly, to selling and distributing content such as songs, videos, and text using micropayment schemes.
Various subscription-based approaches have been used to distribute content on the Internet. With a subscription-based approach, a customer may pay a monthly fee for a service that provides access to a library of on-line content such as downloadable songs. Although the monthly fee may be relatively modest, the fee and the effort involved in subscribing to the service may deter casual or occasional users. Moreover, because of fragmentation in the content industry, users who desire to purchase content are often faced with subscribing to numerous different services, which further increases the burden on the user.
Micropayment schemes have been proposed in which on-line users are billed on a per-item basis for each separate item of content that is downloaded.
It is an object of the present invention to provide improved micropayment arrangements for distributing on-line content.

Systems and methods for distributing on-line content


A label handling apparatus (40) connected to an air source (90) selectively providing both a positive air pressure and an air suction has a plate (70, 100) which receives a label (26) from a peeler (34) across a lower surface (46) of the plate (100). The plate (100) includes a plurality of holes (102)having upper ends in fluid communication with the air source (90) and lower ends intersecting the lower surface (46) of the plate (|00). Pins (60) are disposed for sliding motion within the plate (70, 100) to selectively block and unblock the fluid communication between selected ones of the holes (102) and the air source (26). By simply moving the pins (60) to cover or uncover selected holes (102), the apparatus can be quickly adjusted to accommodate any size label.

The application of labels to products or parts moving along a conveyor line is a process that is widely used in industry. Generally, the labels are contained and stored on a long continuous strip of webbing or backing material that is wound on a reel mounted on a labeler. When the reel is rotated, a label to be applied is peeled off of its backing strip and held or suspended on a grid plate by a partial vacuum. A part sensor located either on the conveyor or the labeler detects the presence of a part under the suspended label. After a short time delay, a positive air pressure is applied to the back of the label; and it is blown off of the grid plate onto the product.
While there are many different types and varieties of labeling machines, of particular interest is the model 2111-ST labeler manufactured by Label-Aire Inc. and commercially available from the Label-Aire Division of Wallace Computer Services, Inc. of Indianapolis, Ind. With that labeling machine, the strip of backing material containing the labels is fed over an upper surface of a peeler plate, over a peeler plate edge and then, back along a path generally adjacent a lower surface of the peeler plate. The backing material is typically more flexible than the labels attached thereto; and therefore, the backing material readily bends around the peeler plate edge. The label being of a stiffer material will resist bending around the edge of the peeler plate and begin to separate from the backing material strip as the feeding action or motion of the backing material strip continues.
The label continues to feed in a generally horizontal direction beneath a grid plate. The grid plate is perforated by a pattern of holes which are in fluid communication with a plenum above the gird plate having a negative pressure with respect to atmospheric pressure, that is, a partial vacuum. The partial vacuum is normally created by a fan that pulls air through the grid plate holes, thereby creating a suction force on the bottom surface of the grid plate to suspend or hold the label thereon. The feed of the backing material strip continues until the label is completely separated therefrom and is held by the suction force on the grid plate.
The labeling machine is positioned with respect to a moving conveyor line such that a part sensor mounted on the conveyor or the labeler defines a label application position with respect to the suspended label. When the part is at that position, air under a positive pressure is blown through tubes connected to selected ones of the holes on the top side of the grid. The fluid pressure through the tubes is sufficient to overcome the vacuum created by the fan, and the label is blown off of the bottom of the grid and onto the part on the conveyor line.
The operation of the above described labeling machine has proven to be satisfactory in the application of labels to products, for example, plastic cases in which CD's are packaged. In the normal course of a packaging process, the labels being applied to the products may change, or the products themselves may change, thereby requiring different labels. When a different size label is to be used, the labeling machine must be set up for the new label. With each different size label, the application of the pressurized fluid through the holes in the grid must be adjusted. The grid is manufactured to a size accommodating the largest label that the labeling machine will accept. Therefore, the grid may have an area of four or more inches on a side. Further, with each different size label, the suction and blow off forces through the bottom of the grid must be adjusted to most effectively hold and then subsequently blow the label onto the part.
To initially set up the above-described labeling machine, a cover forming a plenum on top of the grid hole is removed. Next, a masking plate is put in place on top of the grid plate so that it covers all of the holes. By viewing down the edge of the grid plate that receives the label, a sample label is located on the upper surface of the masking plate so that it overlies the location of a production label on the lower surface of the grid plate. The masking plate is then removed from the grid plate; and using the sample label as a template, an opening is cut in the masking plate to correspond to the size of the sample label. After the label-shaped hole in the masking plate is cut, the masking plate is again mounted on the upper surface of the grid so that the holes outside of the perimeter of the label cut-out are covered.
The positive pressure to blow the label off of the bottom of the grid plate is adjusted by locating a plurality, for example, 18, flexible tubes having a one end connected to a manifold. The other, distal ends of the tubes are inserted into selected ones of the uncovered holes in the top of the grid plate such that the label is most effectively held on and then subsequently blown off the grid plate. The number and location of the tubes will depend on the area of the label, the label material and thickness. Preferably, more tubes are used in a pattern at the center of a label with fewer tubes being located with respect to the label periphery.
The cover plate providing a plenum for the vacuum fan is then put in place over the grid plate, and the labeling machine is ready for testing. Therefore, the vacuum or suction from the fan is limited to those holes which are not covered by the masking plate and those holes to which pressure tubes are not connected. The placement of the tubes can be time-consuming process, especially the first time that a label is used. Once a proper tube placement is determined, it can be recorded for future reference.
Several test labels are then run through the labeling machine and applied to the part on the conveyor to test the setup of the machine. When working with new labels which have not previously been used, and for which the appropriate location of the pressure tubes is not known, the initial placement of the pressure tubes may result in the label not being applied to the desired location on the part. In other situations, the location of the pressure tubes may result in the position of successive labels varying beyond an acceptable tolerance. Ideally, each label should be applied at precisely the same relative location on each product or case on the conveyor line. If the labels are not being applied to the proper location or the label is being applied inconsistently, that is, the label is not being repeatably applied at the same location on the part, a portion of the set up procedure must be repeated. For example, at the least, the plenum cover must be removed in order to relocate the pressure tubes, and then the plenum cover is reinstalled. The above process is repeated until a pattern of pressure tube locations is found that provides the desired accuracy and consistency in the label placement.
Consequently, there is a need for a label handling system for a labeling machine that permits a faster set up procedure.

Adjustable dispensing grid for labeler and method of applying a label


Disclosed are lubricating oil compositions comprising a major amount of an oil of lubricating viscosity and a tetra-functional hydrolyzable silane compound of the general formula Si—X4 or hydrolysis product thereof, wherein X is independently selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl, alkoxy, aryloxy, acyloxy, amino, monoalkyl amino and dialkyl amino.

Phosphorus, particularly the phosphorus delivered by zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP), has been the predominant antiwear agent in fully formulated lubricants for the past 50 years. Studies have suggested that phosphorus may poison catalytic converters used on gasoline-fueled engines to reduce exhaust emissions of unburned hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen [Spearot, J. A., and Caracciolo, F. (1977), "Engine Oil Phosphorus Effects on Catalytic Converter Performance in Federal Durability and High Speed Vehicle Tests," SAE Technical Paper 770637; Caracciolo, F., and Spearot, J. A. (1979), "Engine Oil Additive Effects on the Deterioration of a Stoichiometric Emissions Control (C-4) System," SAE Technical Paper 790941; Ueda, F., Sugiyama, S., Arimura, K., Hamaguchi, S., and Akiyama, K. (1994), "Engine Oil Additive Effects on Deactivation of Monolithic Three-Way Catalysts and Oxygen Sensors," SAE Technical Paper 940746]. As the environmental regulations governing tailpipe emissions have tightened, the allowable concentration of phosphorus in engine oils has been significantly reduced. Further reductions in the phosphorus content of engine oil is likely in the next category, GF-5, to perhaps 0.05 wt. %.
Many partial solutions exist, where either Zn, P. or S have been partially or totally eliminated. In one approach Zhang et al. [Zhang, Z., Yamaguchi, E. S., Kasrai, M., Bancroft, G. M., "Tribofilms Generated From ZDDP and ashless dialkyldithiophosphate (DDP) on Steel Surfaces, Part 1, Growth, Wear, and Morphological Aspects," Tribology Letters, Vol. 19, 3, pp 211-220 (2005)] studied the growth and morphology of tribofilms, generated from ZDDP and a DDP over a wide range of rubbing times (10 seconds to 10 hours) and concentrations (0.1-5 wt. % ZDDP), using atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy at the 0, P, and S K-edges and the P, S, and Fe L-edges. The major components of all films, generated using a Cameron-Plint tester, on 52100 steel are Zn and Fe phosphates and polyphosphates. The average thickness of these phosphate films has been measured using P K-edge XANES and XPS profiling. For ZDDP, a very significant phosphate film (about 100 Å thick) forms after 10 seconds, while film development for DDP is substantially slower. However, for both additives, the average film thickness increases to 600-800 Å after 30 minutes of rubbing, before leveling off or decreasing.
The antiwear properties of pure ZDDP and in combination with DDP at different rubbing times and concentrations were also been examined. It was found that under all conditions, the performance of ZDDP as an antiwear agent is superior to that of DDP. However, DDP has no adverse effect on the performance of ZDDP when the two are mixed, suggesting that DDP can be used with ZDDP, thereby reducing the amount of total ash.
Another approach that reduces ash was developed by Manka in U.S. Pat. No. 5,674,820 relates to a composition, comprising: (A) a compound represented by the formula:
wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are independently hydrocarbyl groups, and X1 and X2 are independently O or S, and n is 0 to 3; and (B) an acylated nitrogen-containing compound have a substituent of at least 10 aliphatic carbon atoms. In one embodiment, the inventive composition further comprises (C) a second phosphorus compound other than (A), said second phosphorus compound being a phosphorus acid, phosphorus acid ester, phosphorus acid salt, or derivative thereof. In one embodiment, the inventive composition further comprises (D) an alkali or alkaline earth metal salt of an organic sulfur acid, carboxylic acid, or phenol. In one embodiment, the inventive composition further comprises (E) a thiocarbamate. These compositions are useful in providing lubricating compositions and functional fluids with enhanced antiwear properties. Specifically, the compositions disclosed are useful as tractor hydraulic fluids, which show enhanced antiwear and antiscore performance.
In U.S. Pat. No. 5,405,545, antiwear and antioxidant properties are claimed for this invention. A lubricant additive having antiwear and antioxidant properties is the reaction product of a thiodicarboxylic acid and an ether amine, preferably 3,3′-thiodipropionic acid and N-isoeicosyloxypropyl-1,3-diaminopropane which is post-reacted with an aliphatic alcohol, preferably oleyl alcohol, an aliphatic amine, preferably a tert-C12 to C14 amine and/or a trialkylphosphite, preferably a tributylphosphite. The post-reaction product contains at least one ester, amide, and/or phosphonate functional group. Data from a Four-Ball test were given in support of the beneficial antiwear performance.
A supplemental wear inhibitor that contains no phosphorus is described in U.S. Publication No. 2003/0148899 A1. This disclosure provides a lubricant oil composition, having enhanced wear-preventive characteristics for a diesel engine operating with large quantities of soot in the oil (soot content: 0.20-4.0 wt. %), and is especially suitable for a pressure-accumulating (common rail) type diesel engine equipped with an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. The claimed lubricant oil composition contains a base oil composed of a mineral and/or synthetic oil incorporated with at least three additives that are a sulfurized oxymolybdenum dithiocarbamate at 0.03 to 0.50 wt. % as Mo; a zinc dialkyldithiophosphate at 0.04 to 0.05 wt. % as P; and at least one metallic salt of alkyl salicylate selected from the group consisting of a Ca salt of alkyl salicylate at 0.004 to 1.0 wt. % as Ca, Mg salt of alkyl salicylate at 0.002 to 0.60 wt. % as Mg, and Zn salt of alkyl salicylate at 0.006 to 1.60 wt. % as Zn, all percentages being based on the whole composition. Bench tests in SRV friction/wear tester were conducted.
The above references largely describe P- or S-containing supplemental wear inhibitors. Unfortunately the tightening of emission requirements requires wear inhibitors with no P, S, and Zn. Trialkylsilanes were disclosed to add thermal stability to lubricants in U.S. Pat. No. 4,572,791 and phenyltrialkylsilanes were disclosed for oxidation improvement in U.S. Pat. No. 5,120,485. Trifunctional hydolysable silanes have found some applications in fuels and lubricant compositions, U.S. Pat. No. 4,541,838 discloses additive mixtures of an organic nitrate ignition accelerator and a trialkoxysilane for use in fuel compositions. U.S. Pat. No. 6,887,835 discloses bis-(trialkoxysilyl)alkyl polysulfides as well as other linking groups including polysiloxanes. The bis and polymeric silane compounds showed a reduction in the Falex 4-ball wear scar using the ASTM D 4172 test.
Russian Patent No. SU-245955 (Jun. 11, 1969) discloses lubricant additives which improve the antifriction and anticorrosion characteristics of lubricating oils when used in amounts of 2-35% weight, preferably 5% wt are trialkoxyorganosilanes of the general formula (AlkO)3SiRR′ (where AlkO is an alkoxy group, R is alkyl, aryl or alkenyl group, and R′ is a functional group such as such as NH2, CO2H, COH, OH, or CN).
Great Britain Patent No. 1 441 335 discloses lubricant compositions to improve antifatigue containing about 0.01 to 5% weight of a condensation polymer derived from a trialkoxysilanes of the formula R—Si(OR1)3 where R is C1-24 alkyl or C2-24 alkoxyalkyl, and R1 is C1-12 alkyl or C2-12 alkoxyalkyl, where alkoxyalkyl means an ether group represented by —Cn—O—Cm— wherein the sum of n plus m is 2 to 24 in the case of R and 2 to 12 in the case of R1.
Japanese Patent Publication No. 8-337788 (Dec. 24, 1996) discloses additives consisting of silane compounds, e.g., a): R1Si(OR)3, b): (R1)2Si(OR)2, and c): (R1)3SiOR where (R═H, C1-18 alkyl, C2-18 alkenyl, C6-18 aryl; and R1═C6-50 alkenyl optionally containing a N, O, and/or S atom or substituted with hydroxyl, carbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, alkenoxycarbonyl or aryloxycarbonyl, or a C6-50 aryl. Also claimed are (i) lubricating oil compositions containing for engines comprising 0.05-10 wt. % the additive(s); (ii) compositions containing: (A) the additive(s); (B) a metal cleaner(s) in a base oil; (C) an extreme pressure lubricant(s); and (D) an ash-free dispersant(s). The additives are said to improve cleanliness of the piston of engines and thereby allow a reduction of amount of phosphorus-type extreme pressure agents and ester-type oiliness improvers added and prolong the lifetime of engine oils. The compositions are also said to have high friction reducing effects.

Tetraoxy-silane lubricating oil compositions


A single antenna is used so that time-division transmission and reception is carried out in a radar apparatus for obtaining a distance and a relative speed with respect to a target object based on a beat signal obtained by transmitting a frequency modulated signal and mixing a received signal reflected by said target object with the frequency modulated signal that is transmitted.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to radar apparatuses and, more particularly, to a radar apparatus for use in automobiles.
Under recent circumstances, in which automobile accidents are increasing yearly with the increase in use of automobiles, it has become necessary for an automobile to be equipped with an apparatus supporting safety of operation. Such an apparatus should be capable of warning a driver of a possible crash, measuring a ground speed accurately and controlling the engine properly while the automobile is driven on a wet road.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventional radars for measuring a relative speed and distance of an automobile with respect to a target object include a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar and a pulse Doppler radar. In an FMCW radar, as shown in FIG. 1, a triangular baseband signal is supplied to a transmission voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) 10 for frequency modulation. A resultant high-frequency signal obtained from the voltage controlled oscillator 10 is transmitted via a transmission antenna 11. A portion of the high-frequency signal is branched off to a reception mixer (MIX) 12 supplied with a received signal received via a reception antenna 13. According to this arrangement, a beat signal commensurate with a distance from a target object and a relative speed with respect to the target object is obtained. Since such a construction enables a significantly simple signal processing unit to provide a relative speed signal and a distance signal, it is extensively being applied to radar apparatuses such as an automobile radar apparatus which are expected to be small and inexpensive.
In one specific implementation of a radar apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2, a switch (SW) 16 is provided between the reception antenna 13 and the reception mixer 12 so as to prevent a signal-to-noise ratio from being degraded due to a leak of the triangular modulating signal to the reception side and to attenuate 1/f noise provided by the reception mixer (MIX) 12. The switch 16 may be operated according to a drive signal (LO) from an oscillation source 18 so as to subject the received signal to frequency conversion. The received signal output from the reception mixer (MIX) 12 is supplied to a second mixer 22 via a band-pass filter (BPF) 20. In the second mixer 22, the received signal is subject to frequency conversion again, using the drive signal (LO), so that a beat signal is obtained.
For example, a frequency f.sub.0 of a transmitted signal output by the voltage controlled oscillator 10 is on the order of 10-100 GHz, a frequency f.sub.SW of the switch drive signal (LO) is on the order of 10-100 MHz and a beat frequency f.delta. produced by the transmitted signal and the received signal is below the order of 10-100 KHz. The frequency of the triangular wave is on the order of 100-1000 Hz. The amplitude of the transmitted signal supplied to the reception mixer 12 varies due to the frequency response of the VCO 10 and the line. The frequency of the amplitude variation is 100-1000 Hz. Since the reception mixer 12 has an AM demodulating function as well as the frequency conversion function, the output signal of the reception signal 12 inevitably includes noise in the form of the amplitude variation.
The frequency of the received signal received via the reception antenna 13 is given by f.sub.0 +f.delta.. As a result of the frequency conversion using the switch 16, a received signal having frequencies between f.sub.0 +f.delta.-f.sub.SW and f.sub.0 +f.delta.+f.sub.SW is produced. Accordingly, the reception mixer 12 produces an IF signal having frequencies between f.sub.SW -f.delta. and f.sub.SW +f.delta.. The IF signal contains a noise in the form of amplitude variation having a frequency on the order of 100-1000 Hz. Since the IF signal has a frequency on the order of 10-100 MHz, the noise in the form of the amplitude variation is removed by the band-pass filter 20. The mixer 22 subjects the IF signal having the noise removed to frequency conversion so as to obtain the beat signal having a frequency f.delta..
The antennas 11 and 13 must have a size commensurate with a beamwidth capable of covering a single traffic lane so as not to detect a reflected wave from a non-target object outside a detection range of the radar. For example, given that the detection range is 100 m, and the width of a lane is 3.6 m, the beamwidth required to keep out a reflected wave from a vehicle driven in another lane 100 m ahead would be 2.1 degrees. As is well known, the relationship between the beamwidth B and the diameter D of the reflector antenna is given by EQU D.apprxeq.70.times..lambda./B
Assuming that the beamwidth is 2.1 degrees and the frequency is 60 GHz (the wavelength=5 mm), the diameter D of the antenna is 167 mm, according to the above equation.
In the 100 m distance, an area covered by the radar is determined by a product of gain drops of the transmission and the reception antenna at a given angular separation. Thus, the diameter may actually be smaller than the result obtained according to the above equation. Antennas having a diameter of about 110 mm are usually used.
Desirably, an automobile radar apparatus is designed so as not to detract from the aesthetic design of the automobile body. For optimum matching with the design, the smaller the radar apparatus, the better. Also, an automobile radar apparatus is ideally inexpensive in order to be available to the general public. However, requirement for concurrent transmission and reception imposes the use of both the transmission antenna and the reception antenna, so that it is difficult to achieve reduction of the size and price of an automobile radar apparatus according to the conventional technology.
As shown in FIG. 3, one approach to reduce the size of the radar apparatus is to use a directional coupler 26 so that a transmission and reception antenna 24 can be shared. In the circuit of FIG. 3, a portion of the transmission power is supplied to the transmission and reception antenna 24 via the directional coupler 26. An isolation capability of the directional coupler 26 is utilized to supply a local power to the reception mixer 12. The degree of coupling of the directional coupler 26 is set below 10 dB so as not to draw an excessively large power to the reception mixer 12 in consideration of the withstand capability of the reception mixer 12. Accordingly, a problem with this approach is that the voltage controlled oscillator 10 is required to output a significantly larger power than the actual output power needed to attain a satisfactorily long detection range. For example, assuming that the power actually radiated by the antenna is 10 mW, a power exceeding 100 mW is needed. Although an output on the order of 10-100 mW can be easily obtained by high-output devices such as an IMPATT diode and a Gunn diode in the milliwave band, an output exceeding 100 mW cannot be obtained easily by the present device technology. It is also to be noted that devices such as the IMPATT diode and the Gunn diode are quite expensive.
Since the isolation capability of the directional coupler 26 is used in the approach of FIG. 3, the local input power varies due to the antenna impedance. For this reason, it is difficult for the reception mixer 12 to perform stable frequency conversion.
One problem that arises as the number of vehicles equipped with an automobile radar apparatus increases is radio interference from other vehicles. Since automobile radars share generally the same frequency band, radars carried on automobiles driven in the opposite lane may cause radio interference so that the target object ahead of the user driving in the same lane, becomes lost on the radar.
Conventional approaches to prevent radio interference include the use of a 45-degree linearly polarized wave antenna or a circularly polarized wave antenna. Polarization discrimination provided by such types of antennas is used to attenuate radio interference from other vehicles. However, polarization discrimination provided by such types of antennas is 20-25 dB at best. As the number of vehicles equipped with radar increases, the interfering signal level increases so that the conventional technology cannot provide satisfactory performance from the radar.

Radar apparatus with a simplified construction


A dental wedge (10) having a wedge body (11) and a gripping portion (12). The wedge (10) also has a longitudinal axis (13). The body (11) extends from a first end (14) to a second end (15), with the gripping portion (12) attached to the first end (15). The body (11) is constructed of at least two longitudinally extending layers. In one embodiment there are three layers, a first longitudinally extending layer (16), and second longitudinally extending layer (17) and a third longitudinally extending layer (18). The layer (17) is located between the layers (16, 18). In one embodiment the layers (16, 18) are formed of a softer material than the layer (17). In an alternative embodiment the layers (16, 18) are formed of a harder material than the material forming the layer (17).

Traditionally, dental wedges have been primarily used to reduce the incidence of excessive restorative material being pushed between the restoration "formwork" (or the "matrix band" as it is known in dental parlance) and the edge of the tooth in the region of the gum in between the teeth. Such protrusions . . . "overhangs" as they are known, cause floss to snag, and/or fray, cause bacteria and food and plaque to accumulate under the ledge, and can lead to periodontal disease and bone loss, plus increase the chances of future decay. Wedges also serve the dual purpose of stabilising the matrix band. This is especially important when a sectional matrix style of band is used as opposed to the circular toffelmire, sequland or auto matrix type band, which get a grip on the tooth by virtue of their 360° locking on, clamping action, as opposed to the limited 45 degree slice of the tooth the sectional matrix band typically sits next to.
Wedges were nearly always made of timber or wood (often sycamore) but in recent decades there has been a trend to make them from polymer materials, with varying degrees of success. Wedges were always made from flexible, moldable materials in order to adapt to the variable contours and space sizes between the teeth, but were never generally designed to provide substantial springback force when compressed, rather they were usually only able to flex to adapt, not to push back. As a result, virtually all wedges on the market need to be either used with additional equipment, or tightened on multiple occasions.
Wedges made of wood have the disadvantage that they have very little resilience or spring back power because they need to be stiff enough to push into the gap between the teeth at high force without buckling. Although they worked quite well to adapt to the curvature of the teeth, [except in furcations] and they hold the matrix band tightly against the proximal surfaces of that portion of the tooth apical to the edge of the cavity, because of their lack of resilience, they often resulted in poor quality tooth separation and thus poor quality contact points when the matrix band was removed. This is because removal of the matrix band creates a gap equal to the thickness of the band, and it is necessary to separate the teeth within their semi flexible and visco elastic tissue matrix during the course of the restorative procedure before the filling is hardened, at least by the thickness of the matrix band, so that the teeth touch firmly with no inter proximal gap once the band is removed.
This was not a problem in the past but now is due to the increasing use of composite resin. Composite resin restorations differ from other restorations like amalgams in that the lateral force applied by the restorative material during the condensation and packing of the filling phase is far less. As a result of this there is less lateral pressure put on the matrix band [like formwork] and far less separation created between the adjacent teeth, such that when the matrix band is removed composite restorations typically have the above mentioned gap, which typically is just wide enough to allow meat fibres and fine fibres from vegetables such a celery to enter the gap, especially during the high forces of mastication. Such food fibres, especially meat, often contain rubbery elastin, and when forced in under active biting pressure they effectively jam an elastomeric fibre in the gap under pressure, which in turn applies a slight expansive orthodontic like force to the gap. The adjacent teeth are thus pushed apart even further in the subsequent hours and days . . . thus causing the gap to become wider. Hence a viscous circle develops and the gap enlarges to receive even more food, usually up to about a self limiting but highly irritating/damaging width of about 0.8 mm-0.5 mm, and the patient not only gets an immediate uncomfortable, very annoying and irritating problem, but probably gum disease and decay in subsequent years from the impacted food.
As more of the world's dentists turn away from unsightly and mercury containing metallic amalgam, and use composite resin based restoratives for their primary restorative material, so this problem will increase, especially in third world countries where contact pressure may be seen as an optional peripheral refinement, not commercially justified given the lower fee level and time allowed, and a minor issue compared to the main concern of getting decay out and a filling of any kind into the hole. Even in sophisticated western markets it has been reported that as many as 60% of fillings done in composite [white] material result in food traps. [CRA survey] In the period prior to 1990 when the predominant restorative material throughout the world was metal amalgam, this was not such a large problem because amalgam condensation created such high lateral packing pressure it separated the teeth sufficiently so that on removal of the matrix the contact point was sufficiently tight so as not to routinely cause this food impaction problem.
Food packing between teeth however will soon manifest its serious side to those dentists new to composite, who wrongly assume that composite is the same as amalgam in outcome. Food trapping can cause devastating consequences for the patient with time. The bone loss caused by such food packing is usually irreversible and any decay caused by such food packing is usually at a point deep down next to the gum and often well below the gum at the bone level, where it is harder to restore, and where the tooth surface tapers in close to the pulp, or nerve. The nerve is much closer to the encroaching decay than with the usual interproximal and occlusal decay. This fact, combined with the generous nutrient supply from the trapped food to the bacteria making the decay, can cause the decay to start and advance quickly to the nerve, and for it to be infected and destroyed in an alarmingly short time. A dead nerve, apart from being painful, requires expensive root canal therapy, then a crown, but the margins of such crown have to be placed in a compromised sub gingival position right in the most difficult area for the patient to maintain in a plaque free state, (interproximally) and so the chances of periodontal disease and secondary caries increase around this crown. A second crown may be impossible to do because of the unrestorable nature of the sub gingival defect, leading to extraction of the tooth, and the need for an implant or denture or bridge, each with their own set of new risk factors. Thus it can be seen that a series and a lifetime of problems can potentially flow from the simple misadventure of a poorly executed composite resin restoration which results in an open or light contact point pressure with subsequent food trapping.
As a result of the inadequacy of wooden wedges to provide sufficient rebound effect and insufficient separating power, and as a result of the inadequacy of all the existing polymeric wedge wood substitutes to provide adequate separating power, a large industry has developed around the concept of providing separation between the teeth with other devices during the course of the restorative procedure. Instruments such as contact-pro have been used internally within the cavity to lever the teeth apart, and a large section of the general dental community now rely on the provision of metal rings with two legs, with trade names such as Compositite, palodent bitine rings, Garrison rings, Vrings etc to squeeze into the embrasure space between the teeth such that the vectors of force created by the squeezing ring legs apply a separating force between the teeth at the point where the restoration is likely to be placed. The use of these rings, although moderately successful in terms of outcome is somewhat unpredictable in terms of contact point pressure due to variabilities in tooth morphology, the extent of the caries and the amount and shape of the remaining tooth to engage, and the variable geometries and vectors of force that result. Also, use of the rings system is an extra step the clinician needs to take, unlike the current invention, which seeks to stabilise the matrix band, stop overhangs, and separate the teeth adequately at the same time. Also, often these rings are impossible or very difficult to use due to inadequate amounts of tooth structure to support their position on either side of the filling, unlike separation obtained internally within in the filling (eg "contact pro" and other instruments) or via the current invention.
The above rings can also become unstable and 'ping' off in the mouth and go down the throat and cause an inhalation hazard or swallowing hazard. They also still require the use of wedges anyway to stop overhangs and/or to stabilise the sectional matrix band.
Prior wedges are generally made triangular in cross section and made with excessive bulk and especially excessive vertical dimensions at the apex of this triangle that in the opinion of the patent author cause the wedges to interfere with and intrude upon the correct shape desired from the filling. They become intrusive into the desirable contour lines of the filling and distort the smooth flowing form of the matrix band and compromise the operator's ability to get a broad contact point and anatomically correct emergence profile. As a result many restorations have large embrasure spaces, causing more food to become lodged between the teeth by lateral placement during eating, and also causing the contact point anatomy to be more of a point contact at the occlusal surface, which is well known in the dental profession to be less able to resist food impaction than a broad area contact point further toward the gingival margin.
Also the cross sectional shape of most dental wedges is usually triangular or square at the point where they are held by the pliers or tweezers that are used to place and align and drive them into the interproximal space. Most dental wedge holding devices have opposing flat surfaces, which do not allow stable grasping of triangular or square surfaces except at certain discrete angles, and thus limit the flexibility and ease of use. Not only do most wedges not have the ability to be easily orientated 360 degrees, but they also mostly cannot be easily be orientated in the two other planes due to the shape they are made in, and thus they are less comfortable to place, requiring compensatory wrist movement, and not as easy to align so as to be in the ideal trajectory for the interproximal space. The use of the spherical ball at the attachment point is lacking and is designed to overcome this problem.


An image processor and X-ray diagnostic apparatus designate areas of interest, by using an input unit, on at least two of a plurality of still images forming a moving image when continuously displayed, estimate corresponding areas on the remaining images which correspond to the areas of interest by geometrical calculation or the like by using a position detecting section, shift the respective areas of interest and the respective corresponding areas to the image centers of the respective images by using an AFFINE transformation section, and perform continuous display by using the respective images after the shift processing.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an X-ray diagnostic apparatus and image processor.
2. Description of the Related Art
When a moving image is displayed by continuously displaying a plurality of images, the moving image may be observed while a region to be observed (to be referred to as a "region of interest" hereinafter) moves laterally in the image. When images sensed by rotating an imaging system or target are used, in particular, if the target is not located in the rotation center, the target is displayed together with its lateral movement.
It is known that one of the human characteristics is that the power of observation/concentration of an object varies depending on whether the object is largely moving or not. If, therefore, a moving image with a region of interest largely moving is observed, the power of observation/concentration of the region of interest inevitably decreases, resulting in a deterioration in operation efficiency or diagnostic ability.
The present invention has been made in consideration of the above situation, and has as its object to provide an image display apparatus and X-ray diagnostic apparatus which always display a region of interest in an image center to allow an operator to observe the region of interest while keeping the power of observation or concentration high.


A method for securing a blockchain and incentivizing the storage of blockchain data using a publicly verifiable proof of retrievability (PoR) includes receiving a PoR transaction having a PoR proof; determining whether the PoR proof is a verified PoR proof; and based upon determining that the PoR proof is a verified PoR proof, incorporating, by a block creator node, the PoR transaction into a new block of the blockchain.

Blockchain systems are a type of distributed database management systems that allow for data (e.g., a digital ledger including transactions and metadata) to be securely and reliably recorded, shared, and synchronized across a distributed network of different network participants (e.g., nodes). Blockchain technology uses a particular type of data structure that facilitates the storage and distribution of data in packages called "blocks" that are digitally connected to each other in a "chain." Blockchain systems provide a decentralized, open, Byzantine fault-tolerant transaction mechanism.
Blockchain systems are becoming common for various types of Internet interactions, including anonymous online payments, remittance, and the transaction of digital assets (e.g., digital currencies). Cryptocurrencies (a type of digital currency), such as those provided by the Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, or Ethereum platforms, are well-recognized examples of blockchain systems.
With the increasing popularity of blockchain, thousands of nodes join the blockchain network to issue and validate transactions. Given the current transaction volume and the lack of proper pruning mechanism in public blockchains, blockchain nodes face big challenges to host the full blockchain. For example, at present it requires 170 GB for Bitcoin and 75 GB for Ethereum to store the entire blockchain.
As a result of the significant blockchain storage requirements, and with the constantly growing demand for blockchain storage, fewer and fewer nodes store the full blockchain locally. Indeed, most of the blockchain nodes become lightweight clients who utilize the infrastructure but not contribute to it (e.g., do not store the full blockchain). Also contributing to the reduction of blockchain storage is the prevalence of mining pools, where nodes are incentivized to become mining nodes, which do not necessarily need to maintain the whole blockchain in order to mine a block. In fact, only the mining pool coordinators are left to be the full nodes, storing the full blockchain. Changes in blockchain protocols are also leading to fewer nodes storing the whole blockchain; for example, recent bitcoin releases (e.g., Bitcoin, 2015) enables pruning old blocks to reduce the storage requirements.
As a result, there is a shortage of trusted data storage of the whole blockchain, which is a serious threat to the security and sustainability of the blockchain system. For example, because the complete blockchain data is important for a node to validate transactions and detect possible double-spending transactions, it is critical for the blockchain system to have a certain number of full copies of the blockchain in case some of them are corrupted (or compromised) and to prevent invalid transactions from being included in the ledger. Yet, conventional blockchain systems do not effectively incentivize the nodes to store the whole blockchain, and thus serious security threats are left unaddressed.
In fact, even fairly recent advancements in blockchain technologies fail to address the blockchain storage problem. For example, SmartLight (see Damian Gruber, Wenting Li, Ghassan Karame, "Unifying Lightweight Blockchain Client Implementations", In Proceedings of the NDSS Workshop on Decentralized IoT Security and Standards (NDSS-DISS), San Diego, Calif., USA, 2018, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein) proposes a framework to motivate full nodes (that serve lightweight clients) to forward transactions of their interests. SmartLight leverages the smart contract scheme to reach a fair payment contract between the light clients and the full nodes. However, SmartLight does not require participation as a full node (i.e., a node that stores the whole blockchain) to benefit from the payment scheme. In fact, a node can delete a received block after it has forwarded the transactions to the clients; thus SmartLight does not encourage storage of the full blockchain.
EWoK (Entangled proofs of WOrk and Knowledge) (see Armknecht, Frederik, Jens-Matthias Bohli, Ghassan O. Karame, and Wenting Li, "Sharding PoW-based Blockchains via Proofs of Knowledge," semanticsscholar.org, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference herein) is a proposal to combine blockchain sharding with the mining protocol: Proof of Work (PoW). EWoK improves the hash-based PoW puzzle, so that each mining node needs to store part of the blockchain in order to successfully solve the puzzle and generate a block. EWoK, however, is in the setting of a mining pool, where only the pool coordinator knows which partition of the blockchain each mining node stores, and the PoW solution is only verifiable by the pool coordinator. However, as discussed above, mining pools do not incentivize maintaining multiple copies of the blockchain. Instead, they focus on investing computation resources to solve the PoW solution.
Filecoin (see filecoin.io, 2014) proposes using proofs of retrievability in the blockchain as a proof of storage for a distributed file system that is built on top of the blockchain. In Filecoin, the proofs are over the contiguous stored filed pieces with a fixed size. Also, Filecoin only requires that miners in a mining pool give a proof while creating a block; and thus does not address the problem of their being decreasing few copies of the full blockchain data in a network because it is limited to mining pools, of which there are only a few on a network.

Method and system for publicly verifiable proofs of retrievability in blockchains


Migration of profiles between virtual connect domains is described. In an example, a plurality of validations are performed on a profile from a first virtual connect domain virtualizing devices using a first configuration. The profile is updated based on a second virtual connect domain virtualizing devices using a second configuration. The profile is moved for use by a device in the second virtual connect domain.

Some computer systems include multiple enclosures contained, for example, within a rack. Each enclosure is capable of housing multiple computing devices such as servers (e.g., blade servers). In some such systems each server is operated according to a profile which defines such things as medium access control (MAC) addresses, World Wide Names (WWNs), Serial Number from what source the server is to boot, and the like. Operators of such systems generally cannot transfer or migrate the profiles between different enclosures containing different VC hardware or VC configuration. The inability to move profiles between enclosures can pose difficulties maintaining efficient usage of the computers and the applications that run thereon.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP


A media session is established between a first device (e.g., endpoint) and a second device (e.g., endpoint) via a communication network based on connectivity checks performed by the devices. A set of candidate pairs, including network addresses available to the first device and the second device, is generated. Among the candidate pairs of the candidate pair set, a respective priority is initially assigned for connectivity checks. If a connectivity check modification condition is determined to be met for candidate pairs used for connectivity checks, the priority ordering of the candidate pairs is modified to produce a second priority ordering. This second priority ordering assigns a higher priority for a candidate pair which meets the connectivity check modification condition than a candidate pair that does not meet the condition. Based on the modified ordering, connectivity checks are performed, and the media session is configured and established using a candidate pair determined to be valid.

A communication network typically includes different types of network nodes, such as user devices, routers, network address translators (NATs), media relay servers etc., which perform different functions within the network. Communication between two communicating nodes (endpoints, such as user devices) may be via other nodes of the network (intermediate nodes, such as routers, NATs and media relay servers). The network may have a layered architecture, whereby different logical layers provide different types of node-to-node communication services. Each layer is served by the layer immediately below that layer (other than the lowest layer) and provides services to the layer immediately above that layer (other than the highest layer). The network may be a packet-based network and/or an internet.
A media session may be established between two endpoints, such as user devices, connected via a communication network so that real-time media can be transmitted and received between those endpoints via the network. An example of a media session is a SIP ("Session Initiation Protocol") media session. The media session may be a Voice or Video over IP (VOIP) session, in which audio and/or video of a call is transmitted and received between the endpoints in the VOIP session. Endpoints and other types of network node may be identified by a network address (e.g. IP ("Internet Protocol") address), with the session being established between transport addresses associated with the endpoints. A transport address is a combination of a network address (e.g. IP address) and a port associated with that network address.
To establish the media session, one of the endpoints may transmit a media session request to the other endpoint. Herein, an endpoint that initiates a request for a media session (e.g. audio/video communications) is called an "initiating endpoint" or equivalently a "caller endpoint". An endpoint that receives and processes the communication request from the caller is called a "responding endpoint" or "callee endpoint". Each endpoint may have multiple associated transport addresses e.g. a local transport address, a transport address on the public side of a NAT, a transport address allocated on a relay server etc. During media session establishment, for each endpoint, a respective address is selected to for that endpoint to use to transmit and receive data in the media session. For example, the addresses may be selected in accordance with the ICE ("Interactive Connectivity Establishment") protocol. Once the media session is established, media can flow between those selected addresses of the different endpoints. To select a path, a list of so-called "candidate pairs" is generated, each of which comprises a network address available to a first of the endpoint "local" candidates from the perspective of the first endpoint, though note that "local" in this context is not restricted to host addresses on its local interface, and can also include reflexive addresses on the public side of the NA, or a relay network address of a media relay server that can relay media data to the first endpoint—and a network address available to the second endpoint ("remote" candidates from the perspective of the first endpoint). Every possible pairing of local and remote candidates may be checked to determine whether or not it is valid, by sending one or more probe messages from the local address to the remote address during so-called "connectivity checks".

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.


A multi-stage variable gain amplifier is disclosed that utilizes overlapping gain curves to compensate for log-linear errors. Each gain stage is configured to approximate a log-linear response with a sinusoidal error term such that a portion of the curve has positive errors and a portion of the curve has negative errors. In operation, the control signal inputs for the gain stages are driven such that the gain curves overlap and positive errors in each stage are offset by negative errors in the adjacent stage. The resulting combined gain is a more log-linear response.

A variable gain amplifier (VGA) is an amplifier that has a signal gain (Av) determined by a control input. VGAs are utilized in communication systems and other electronic systems where an input signal level varies over a wide dynamic range. The VGA is often embedded inside of an automatic gain control (AGC) feedback loop which attempts to maintain the output signal level nearly constant even though the level of the input signal varies over time. When operating in a feedback loop, a VGA with exponential gain control characteristics is usually desirable for its large dynamic control range, constant loop settling time independent of absolute gain, and the ability to use the control signal as a logarithmic received signal strength indicator. It is also typically important to minimize the variation in the gain slope over the control input range because this factor is an important one in AGC loop stability. The control input can be discrete and digital in nature, such as an N-bit binary word. In this case, accurate exponential gain control can be accomplished by switching in or out gain control elements. In situations where the gain control loop is continuous and analog in nature, then either a voltage or current can be used to control the gain. Achieving accurate exponential gain control for such continuous gain control loops, however, is not easily achieved with CMOS circuitry.
Some prior VGAs have attempted to solve this problem by providing multiple gain stages. A limited range of the gain response for each stage can be used that are more linear in nature with respect to a logarithmic scale or log-linear. By serially combining multiple gain stages and controlling them individually, these prior VGAs could achieve a gain response that more closely tracked an ideal log-linear response than if a single stage were utilized. However, these prior solutions are still attempting to fit as best possible a fundamentally non-log-linear gain response curve for each stage onto a desired log-linear response.

Multi-stage variable gain amplifier utilizing overlapping gain curves to compensate for log-linear errors


A method for producing a workpiece in the form of a metal sheet with at least one at least partly rolled edge, said at least one edge to be rolled having a length in a longitudinal direction and a curvature in at least one portion along said longitudinal direction, comprises the steps of providing said workpiece, in said at least one portion which has said curvature, with at least one material projection extending in said longitudinal direction of said edge over a part of said length of said at least one edge to be rolled, so that said edge, along said material projection, projects beyond remaining portions of said edge adjoining said material projection transversely to said longitudinal direction of said edge, and subsequently rolling said edge including said material projection.

The invention relates to a method for producing a workpiece in the form of a metal sheet with at least one at least partly rolled edge, the at least one edge to be rolled having a curvature in at least one portion.
The invention also relates to a workpiece produced according to the abovementioned method in the form of a metal sheet having at least one at least partly rolled edge.
It is known to roll edges of metal sheets, for example in order to obtain a reinforced margin of the metal sheet, or in order to produce, for example, a hinge lug on the metal sheet.
To roll an edge of the workpiece in the form of a metal sheet, the workpiece is put into a special rolling tool which has a tool top part and a tool bottom part. The tool top part and the tool bottom part are movable relative to one another. In one of the two tool parts, there is a hollow in the shape of a circle segment in cross section, into which the workpiece, with the edge to be rolled at the front, is pressed by the relative movement between tool bottom part and tool top part. When the edge continues to be pressed into the circle-segment-shaped hollow, the edge rolls along the inner wall of the circle-segment-shaped hollow. The edge may be rolled, for example, only partly, for example over a rolling angle of 90° to 180°, or beyond 180° until a rolling angle of almost 360° is achieved, i.e. until the edge is rolled completely.
The workpieces that can be rolled are not only those whose edge to be rolled is straight but also those whose edge to be rolled has a curvature in at least one section, which also includes the case where the edge to be rolled has a curvature or bend over its entire length to be rolled.
In the case of sheet metal edges which have such a curvature, it has been found that an undesirable kink is produced in the region of the curvature during the rolling of the edge, i.e. the workpiece has a kink in the rolled margin in the region of the curvature after the rolling of the edge, and this kink prevents or even completely rules out the usefulness of the workpiece for the subsequent purpose, for example as a component in the motor vehicle industry. Such a kink can impair not only the aesthetic appearance of the workpiece produced in this way but also its strength or stability, since the kink produced can become greater during loading or stressing of the workpiece.

Method for producing a workpiece in the form of a metal sheet with at least one at least partly rolled edge, and workpiece produced in such a way


A novel two-phase brushless motor drive assembly. The motor drive assembly is made of two parts, a motor assemble and a motor control circuit.. The motor assembly, receives a first wire providing electric power, a second wire providing a ground connection, and a third wire. The motor assembly includes, a two-phase brushless motor. It also includes a motor drive circuit, responsive to a speed control voltage signal on the third wire and the electric power on the first wire, providing drive power to the motor to drive the motor to a speed determined by the speed control voltage signal. The motor assembly also includes a sensor circuit providing a sensed speed current signal on the third wire, having a current representing the rotational speed of the motor.. The motor control circuit is coupled to the third wire, and includes a speed control circuit responsive to a speed control signal for generating the speed control voltage signal on the third wire at a voltage corresponding to a speed indicated by the speed control signal. It also includes a current sensing circuit providing a speed signal, corresponding to the sensed speed current signal on the third wire, such that the voltage of the speed control voltage signal is substantially unaffected by changes in the current of the sensed speed current signal, and such that the current of the sensed speed current signal is substantially unaffected by changes in the voltage of the speed control voltage signal.

Brushless DC fans are a type of brushless DC motor assembly that are widely used for cooling a variety of electronics components and systems, including personal computers. Such fans are relatively inexpensive. The motors driving the fans require only a DC supply voltage and relatively simple control circuitry.
There is increasing desire for variable speed control of fans, since systems designers typically design for "worst case" conditions, and consequently design such fans to operate continuously at maximum speed. At maximum speed such fans are typically their noisiest, and their power consumption is also maximum. However, the systems being cooled, and their associated components, seldom operate at worst case, and, thus, the typical operation of brushless DC fans results in greater than necessary noise and power consumption.
Particular to the PC industry is the desire to control fan speed from the computer operating system based on measurement of critical temperatures within the PC, such as the processor die temperature. Controlling a fan from the operating system would provide the capability to lower fan speed under normal conditions and increase it when conditions occur which require higher cooling capacity. Further, control of fan speed using a digital to analog converter controlling a variable DC voltage would allow software or other digital control of the fan speed.
In addition, there is increased desire to actually monitor fan speed such that, e.g., an uncontrolled reduction in speed can trigger an alert to notify the system so appropriate action can be taken. To implement such fan speed monitoring requires a signal from the fan, typically called a tachometer signal, which requires an additional wire.
Presently, PC manufacturers have defined IC devices, which provide a means of controlling fan speed with various methods implemented external to the fan, while monitoring the tachometer signal with an RPM counter. In conjunction with these, it would be desirable to provide all the following criteria:
RPM control over 30% to 100% of range PA1 RPM control using a DAC controlled variable DC voltage PA1 RPM control method providing high power efficiency throughout RPM range PA1 Tachometer speed signal available throughout RPM range PA1 Minimal external components (PC system PCB) PA1 No more than three connections to fan
Solutions have been proposed to provide variable speed control for two-phase brushless motor assemblies such as fans, while limiting the number of wires connecting to such assemblies to three, a desirable cost saving objective. An example of such a prior art solution is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,656,553, entitled "Electronically Programmable Universal Brushless DC Fan with Integral Tracking and Locked Rotor Protection," which issued on Apr. 7, 1987, and was assigned to Comair Rotron Inc. The scheme disclosed in this patent, while maintaining three wires for connection to the motor, nonetheless requires an integrated circuit voltage regulator, e.g. an LM 317, included in the motor assembly, as well as an additional IC in the assembly to internally control the DC motor drive voltage that, in turn, controls the motor commutation. It also requires various additional circuit elements such as resistors, bipolar transistors and Zener diodes, to effect such speed control of the motor. Speed control is limited, accomplished by the selection of the value of a resistor which is connected between two of the external leads of the motor. In addition, this approach does not provide a fan speed tachometer signal, which, if added, would require a fourth wire.
Thus, this approach suffers from the disadvantages of low flexibility in the programmability of the speed of the fan and from the fact that the regulation of the motor speed is accomplished by varying the level of the DC voltage driving the fan motor windings. The arrangement operates with less efficiency than is desirable, and dissipates excessive heat from the linear voltage regulator. In addition, the size of the motor is limited, as the circuitry included in the fan motor assembly requires two ICs.
Another prior art approach is shown in FIG. 1. This approach to speed control of two-phase brushless motor assemblies involves adjusting the DC voltage to the motor, applied between the supply and ground wires. The third wire is then used for the tachometer's feedback signal. The system 10 shown in FIG. 1 consists of a two-phase brushless motor fan assembly 12 connected to a system printed circuit board ("PCB"). A control integrated circuit ("IC") 16 includes an RPM monitor 18. The RPM monitor 18 receives a tachometer ("TACH") signal on a first wire 20 from the fan 12. A digital to analog converter ("DAC") 22 on the control IC 16 provides a control voltage on line 24 to the "+" input of a differential operational amplifier 26. The level of the control voltage on line 24 corresponds to the speed at which the fan 12 is to run. The output of the operational amplifier 26 is provided on line 28 to the base of an NPN bipolar transistor 30. The collector of bipolar transistor 30 is connected to a power supply 32, while its emitter is connected to one end of a first resistor R1. The other end of resistor R1 is connected to one end of a second resistor R2, with the other end of resistor R2 being connected to ground 34. The common connection point of resistors R1 and R2 is connected by way of line 38 to the "-" input of operational amplifier 26, thus providing a feedback path so as to maintain the proper drive voltage on line 28 for bipolar transistor 30. This, in turn, provides the proper voltage on line 36 to motor fan assembly 12 under varying load conditions to line 36, such that the voltage on line 36 is equal to the DAC output voltage present on line 24 multiplied by the formula R2 ##EQU1##
Note that the prior art fan system 10 of FIG. 1 requires that active power drive components be placed on the system PCB. These additional components not only take up space on the printed circuit board which might otherwise be used for other components, the bipolar NPN transistor 30 also dissipate power in the form of heat that must be dealt with on the printed circuit board itself. Notice also that the motor supply voltage provided on line 36 varies in dependence on the desired speed set in DAC 22. This creates potential problems in that circuitry internal to the fan, which commutates drive to the motor phase windings and generates the tachometer signal, are powered from this same voltage source. Thus, lowering the voltage level on line 36 to reduce fan speed may cause these internal circuits to have inadequate operating voltage, leading to malfunction. In short, trying to control fan speed by adjusting an external DC supply voltage may place a lower limit on the RPM to which the fan can be controlled, due to voltage headroom requirements of the internal circuitry.
Thus, there is a desire for an approved apparatus for controlling with high power efficiency the speed of a two phase brushless motor in a functional assembly, while limiting the number of wires needed for connection to the assembly to three. It is desired to have such an arrangement having control over a wide range of motor speed. It is desired to provide such an arrangement while maintaining adequate voltage for other components in the assembly throughout the motor speed range. It is desired to provide such an arrangement while providing a tachometer motor speed signal available throughout the motor speed range. It is desired to have such an arrangement where fewer power drive components are required on the system printed circuit board to which the wires of the assembly are connected. Finally, it is desired to have such an arrangement requiring fewer components overall, including on the printed circuit board internal to the motor assembly.

Brushless DC motor assembly control circuit


The present invention discloses a new strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae BEC1000 CNCMI-1507 which produces industrially useful quantities of a polysaccharide containing L-fucose. Also disclosed is a process of producing the polysaccharide using this strain and mutants thereof. The polysaccharide has properties which are particularly useful to the cosmetics industry.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention concerns a new strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae, subsp. pneumoniae, and a process for the production of a polysaccharide containing L-fucose using this strain.
The new strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae (hereinafter termed BEC 1000) of the invention was deposited in the Collection Nationale de Cultures de Microorganismes, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 PARIS CEDEX 15, France, on 16 Dec. 1994, in accordance with the provisions of the Treaty of Budapest. It was given the registration number I-1507.
2. Technological Background
The use of bacterial strains of the genus Klebsiella to produce polysaccharides containing L-fucose is known in itself.
In Carbohydrate Research, 77 (1979), pages 183-190, J. P. JOSELEAU and M. -F. MARAIS describe a capsular polysaccharide containing D-galactose, L-fucose and D-galacturonic acid in a ratio of 1:1:1 originating from a strain of Klebsiella K-63.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,298,691, G. T. VEEDER and K. S. KANG describe a process for the production of a S-156 heteropolysaccharide by culture of a strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae, close to the above strain K-63, deposited in the American Type Culture Collection, on 12.sup.th May 1988, as N.degree. ATCC 31646, in an aqueous nutrient medium by aerobic fermentation of a source of assimilatable glucides, such as hydrolysed starch. That heteropolysaccharide contains D-galacturonic acid, D-galactose and L-fucose in an approximate molar ratio of 23:21:26.

Strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae, subsp. pneumoniae, and a process for the production of a polysaccharide containing L-fucose


Methods and systems for performing Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) operations are disclosed. A plurality of cascaded stages compute a selectable one of a forward decimation-in-frequency (DFT) FFT operation in a forward direction from an ith stage to a jth stage, and a reverse DFT FFT operation in a reverse direction from the jth stage to the ith stage. The reduction in time and resource usage from employing the disclosed bidirectional DIF FFT architectures may significantly increase performance of DIF applications, for example, ones that involve streaming FFTs.

An FFT calculation includes reading an input data sequence in the form of time-domain samples x[n], n=0, . . . , N−1, where N is the length of the input data sequence, and outputting an FFT data sequence in the form of frequency-domain components X[k], k=0, . . . , N−1. Such a calculation is conventionally called an N-point FFT. Some FFT algorithms use a divide and conquer approach to reduce the computational complexity of calculating an FFT. For example, some FFT algorithms recursively decompose the problem of calculating the FFT into two sub-problems of half the size (i.e., N/2) at every intermediate pass. The size of the FFT decomposition is known as the radix. In the above example, the radix is 2. This decomposition approach generally works for any radix k provided that N is a power of k. Thus, calculating an FFT typically involves making a number of passes. These passes may be made over the input data sequence x[n], n=0, . . . , N−1 (and intermediate results) in the time domain, in which case the algorithm is a decimation-in-time (DIT) algorithm. Alternatively, the passes may be made over the FFT data sequence X[k], k=0, . . . , N−1 (and intermediate results) in the frequency domain, in which case the algorithm is a decimation-in-frequency (DIF) algorithm. In general, each pass can be associated with the same or a different radix. An algorithm using different radix values in different passes is a mixed radix algorithm and may be useful for computing an FFT with irregular sizes (e.g., size that are not a power of 4). For example, a mixed radix 4/2 FFT algorithm may use a radix R=4 in a first stage and R=2 in a second stage.
As an example, consider the calculation of a 64-point FFT using the radix R=4. For computing the FFT, an FFT processor conventionally processes the input data sequence in the order where the indices corresponding to the data samples are arranged in the following order:
00,16,32,48,01,17,33,49,02,18,34,50,03,19,35,51,04,20,36,52, . . . , 15,31,47,63. This order of data samples is referred to as a radix-reversed order. In the first pass of the FFT calculation, data samples corresponding to indices 00, 16, 32, and 48 are used to compute a first radix-4 bin; data samples corresponding to indices 01, 17, 33, and 49 are used to compute the next radix-4 bin; and so on. An FFT bin corresponds to a portion of the FFT calculation that breaks up the larger FFT calculation into smaller sub-transform calculations.
Many applications use Decimation-in-Frequency (DIF)—these applications perform an FFT algorithm on time-domain input data, process the FFT data samples, then perform an inverse FFT (IFFT) algorithm to recover time-domain output data. Because it is generally expensive and inefficient to perform FFT and IFFT algorithms on data ordered in natural order, existing applications either reorder the data in radix-reverse order or use decimation-in-time (DIT) algorithms. These solutions suffer from low throughput and high usage of logic and memory resources. These solutions are also incapable of computing certain radix values, such as radix-2 FFT or mixed radix 4/2 FFT.
A known FFT implementation cascades together a series of FFT stages as shown in FIG. 2. The illustrated architecture 200 is a forward radix-4 FFT architecture, and includes four stages 201, 202, 203, and 204 connected in series. Input data is fed into the first stage 201, and the output of each stage 201, 202, and 203 is directly input to subsequent stage 202, 203, and 204, respectively. Processed data is output in radix-reversed order from the last stage 204. Each stage (except the last stage) has its own dedicated twiddle stage generator—i.e., each stage 201, 202, and 203 has its own dedicated twiddle stage generator, 232, 234, and 236, respectively. In addition, each twiddle stage generator is associated with a corresponding twiddle stride for that pass, i.e., the twiddle stride increases by 4 at each stage, so the number of generated twiddle factors also decreases by a factor of 4 at each stage. In the exemplary architecture of FIG. 2, twiddle stage generator 232 generates 192 twiddle factors with a twiddle indexing of 1× for the first stage 201; twiddle stage generator 234 generates 48 twiddle factors with a twiddle indexing of 4× for the second stage 202; and twiddle stage generator 236 generates 12 twiddle factors with a twiddle indexing of 16× for the third stage 203.
The serial architecture of FIG. 2 has many limitations. First, the serial architecture of FIG. 2 is unidirectional, and can only perform FFT operations on data input from left to right. Second, the serial architecture of FIG. 2 can implement FFT operations in only one direction—it can either perform forward (FFT) operations or reverse (IFFT) operations, but not both. Third, each stage in the serial architecture of FIG. 2 is limited to the configuration of its associated twiddle stage generator, and as such can function only in one specific FFT pass in only one direction of the implemented FFT operation. As a result, a DIF application may require having more than one instance of architecture 200 to handle both the FFT and IFFT operations involved. This has several disadvantages, such as lower performance, increased usage, and lower throughput.

Bidirectional fast fourier transform in an integrated circuit device


An optical coherence tomography system utilizes an optical swept source that frequency scans at least two different sweep rates. In this way, the system can perform large depth scans of the sample and then the same system can perform shorter depth high precision scans, in one specific example. In order to optimally use the analog to digital converter that samples the interference signal, the system further samples the interference signals at different optical frequency sampling intervals depending upon the selected sweep rates of the optical swept source. This allows the system to adapt to different sweep rates in an optimal fashion.

Optical coherence analysis relies on the use of the interference phenomena between a reference wave and an experimental wave or between two parts of an experimental wave to measure distances and thicknesses, and calculate indices of refraction of a sample. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is one example technology that is used to perform high-resolution cross sectional imaging. It is often applied to imaging biological tissue structures, for example, on microscopic scales in real time. Optical waves are reflected from an object or sample and a computer produces images of cross sections or three-dimensional volume renderings of the sample by using information on how the waves are changed upon reflection.
There are several different classes of OCT, but Fourier domain OCT currently offers the best performance for many applications. Moreover, of the Fourier domain approaches, swept-source OCT has distinct advantages over techniques such as spectrum-encoded OCT because it has the capability of balanced and polarization diversity detection. It has advantages as well for imaging in wavelength regions where inexpensive and fast detector arrays, which are typically required for spectrum-encoded OCT, are not available.
In swept source OCT, the spectral components are not encoded by spatial separation, but they are encoded in time. The spectrum is either filtered or generated in successive optical frequency sampling intervals and reconstructed before Fourier-transformation. Using the frequency scanning swept source, the optical configuration becomes less complex but the critical performance characteristics now reside in the source and especially its frequency sweep rate and tuning accuracy.
High speed frequency tuning, or sweep rates, for OCT swept sources is especially relevant to in vivo imaging where fast imaging reduces motion-induced artifacts and reduces the length of the patient procedure. It can also be used to improve resolution.
The swept sources for OCT systems have typically been tunable lasers. The advantages of tunable lasers include high spectral brightness and relatively simple optical designs. A tunable laser is constructed from a gain medium, such as a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) that is located within a resonant cavity, and a tunable element such as a rotating grating, grating with a rotating mirror, or a Fabry-Perot tunable filter. Currently, some of the highest tuning speed/sweep rate lasers are based on the laser designs described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,415,049 B1, entitled Laser with Tilted Multi Spatial Mode Resonator Tuning Element, by D. Flanders, M. Kuznetsov and W. Atia. The use of micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) Fabry-Perot tunable filters combines the capability for wide spectral scan bands with the low mass, high mechanical resonant frequency deflectable MEMS membranes that have the capacity for high speed tuning/sweep rates. Another laser architecture is termed a Fourier-domain mode-locked laser (FDML). This type of laser stores light in a long length of fiber for amplification and recirculation in synchronism with the laser's tuning element. See "Fourier Domain Mode Locking (FDML): A new laser operating regime and applications for optical coherence tomography", R. Huber, M. Wojtkowski, and J. G. Fujimoto, 17 Apr. 2006/Vol. 14, No. 8/OPTICS EXPRESS 3225. The drawback of these devices is their complexity, however. Moreover, the ring cavity including the long storage fiber creates its own performance problems such as dispersion and instability.
Another class of swept sources that has the potential to avoid inherent drawbacks of tunable lasers is filtered amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) sources that combine a broadband light source, typically a source that generates light by ASE, with tunable filters and amplifiers.
Some of the highest speed devices based on filtered ASE sources are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,061,618 B2, entitled Integrated Spectroscopy System, by W. Atia, D. Flanders P. Kotidis, and M. Kuznetsov, which describes spectroscopy engines for diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and other spectroscopic applications. A number of variants of the filtered ASE swept source are described, including amplified versions and versions with tracking filters.
More recently Eigenwillig, et al. have proposed a variant configuration of the filtered ASE source in an article entitled "Wavelength swept ASE source", Conference Title: Optical Coherence Tomography and Coherence Techniques IV, Munich, Germany, Proc. SPIE 7372, 73720O (Jul. 13, 2009). The article describes an SOA functioning both as an ASE source and first amplification stage. Two Fabry-Perot tunable filters are used in a primary-tracking filter arrangement, which are followed by a second SOA amplification stage. Also, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/553,295, filed on Sep. 3, 2009, entitled Filtered ASE Swept Source for OCT Medical Imaging, by D. Flanders, W. Atia, and M. Kuznetsov (U.S. Pat. Pub. No. US 2011/0051148 A1), which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference, lays out various integrated, high speed filtered ASE swept source configurations. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/776,373, filed on May 8, 2010, entitled ASE Swept Source with Self-Tracking Filter for OCT Medical Imaging, by the same inventors (U.S. Pat. Pub. No. US 2011/0051143 A1), outlines still further configurations that rely on the use of a self-tracking filter arrangement that can improve performance both in terms of sweep rate and linewidth, among other things, and which is also incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference.
In order to compensate for instabilities and/or non-linearities in the tuning of the OCT swept sources, a sampling clock (k-clock) is often employed to enable sampling at equally spaced increments in the optical frequency domain (k-space). This k-clock must usually be delayed to match the delay associated with the optical signals in the sample and reference arms of the interferometer of the OCT system.
If a k-clock is not used but the swept source tunes non-linearly, other corrective options are employed. Some resample the data equally in k-space by interpolation, see S. Yun, G. Tearney, B. Bouma, B. Park, and J. de Boer, "High-speed spectral-domain optical coherence tomography at 1.3 μm wavelength," Opt. Express 11, 3598-3604 (2003).
Resampling in k-space, however, has disadvantages. This is because another metric that characterizes the performance of OCT systems is the electronic bandwidth of the electronic signal processing systems. Sufficiently high bandwidth is becoming increasingly important as higher speed, performance and resolution OCT systems are produced. For example, increasing the wavelength tuning speed of the swept source, which produces higher OCT image acquisition speeds, also results in greater requirements for the electronics that are used to sample the resulting optical interference signals. Typically, to accurately resample, oversampling must be employed, which adds overhead to the electronic signal processing systems.
In newer designs, the k-clock system is integrated with the swept source. An example is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/396,099, filed on Mar. 2, 2009, entitled Optical Coherence Tomography Laser with Integrated Clock, by Flanders, et al. (U.S. Pat. Pub. No. US 2009/0290167 A1), which is incorporated herein by this reference. Here, the delay in the k-clock is provided electronically. This solution has certain advantages in that the electronic delay can be programmable to match changes in the interferometer delay that might be concomitant with the use of different OCT probes, for example.

Multi-speed OCT swept source with optimized k-clock


A method of administering an herbal composition, comprising geranium oil and extracts from roots of the plants of the genus Sophora to mammalian animals undergoing cancer treatments that induce bone marrow suppression side effect, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The composition can be in the form of an oil capsule, tablets, pills, and pastes and administered orally at specific dosages. The composition can also take on the form of an injection to be administered intravenously and intraperitoneally at specific dosages. The administration can be made before and or after the cancer treatment.

1. Field of Invention
This invention relates generally to the use of a supporting composition in cancer treatments and more particularly to administering an herbal composition together with chemotherapy or radiation therapy (or both) in the treatment of cancer.
2. Description of Related Art
Normal cells grow and divide in an orderly and controlled manner. Cancer is a disease where cells become abnormal (cancerous cells) and begin to multiply without control to develop into an extra mass of tissue called a tumor. These cancerous cells can invade nearby tissues and spread through the blood stream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Currently, the four primary types of cancer treatments are immunotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. These cancer treatments may be applied alone or in conjunction with one another. Thus a cancer patient may undergo one or more treatments at a time. A single treatment would span a period of time with therapies delivered at various timed intervals. Immunotherapy, also known as biological therapy or biological response modifier (BRM) therapy, tries to stimulate or restore the ability of the immune system to fight the disease. It is also used to lessen immune system related side effects that may be caused by some cancer treatments. Surgery seeks to directly remove the tumor from the body.
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, uses high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors by damaging the cells' genetic material. While cancerous cells are damaged permanently and eventually die, normal cells that are damaged in radiation therapy are able to repair themselves. Side effects that can occur during radiation therapy are skin irritation and hair loss in the area being treated and damage to the bone marrow.
Chemotherapy uses cytotoxic drugs, alone or in combination, to destroy cancer cells. Just as in radiation therapy, cancer cells can be damaged and eventually die. But healthy cells affected in the process can repair themselves after the chemotherapy. Cytotoxic drugs work by interfering with the ability of a growing cell to divide and reproduce itself. Thus, in addition to cancerous cells, other normal fast-dividing growing cells can also be affected. There can be an effect on blood cells forming in the bone marrow causing bone marrow suppression. There can also be an effect on cells in the digestive tract, in the lining of the mouth and in the reproductive system causing diarrhea and mouth soreness, and an effect on hair follicles causing hair loss.
Bone marrow suppression is one of the many side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It results in reduced blood cell production, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Consequently, the patient will experience tiredness, from anemia, become more susceptible to infections, from leukopenia, and bruise easily and bleed more when getting a cut, from thrombocytopenia.
Drugs are used to counter the bone marrow suppression side effect. Epogen (Epoietin alpha) has been used to counter the side effect of anemia in cancer chemotherapy, and WinRho SD has been used to counter the side effect of thrombocytopenia.
Many of the treatments developed to coordinate with chemotherapy and radiation therapy to counter the side effect of leukopenia act on specific types of white blood cells, i.e. granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes. Neupogen is a recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor that stimulates the growth of neutrophils. Leukine is a recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor that stimulates the production of neutrophils and macrophages. In animal laboratories and clinical trials, various interleukins, secreted by T-lymphocytes, have been used to stimulate productions of various white blood cells in the course of chemotherapy. Interleukin 1 (IL-1) is responsible for B-cell and T-cell proliferation, Interleukin 2 (IL-2) is responsible for the proliferation, growth, and activation of B-cells and T-cells, Interleukin 15 (IL-15) appears to be required for natural killer cells (NK cells) and CD8+ Tcells.
Herbs have also been found to counter leukopenia side effect. For example, injection of extracts from Sophora flavescenes roots has been reported to have reduced leukopenia side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Also, injection of Unicaria tomentosa water extracts in rats experiencing leukopenia from chemotherapy led to an increase in white blood cells.

Method of using geranium oil and sophora root extracts as a supporting composition in cancer treatments