There is provided a communication apparatus compliant with ultra wide band communication systems for improving resistance to interfering waves in combination with DS-SS (direct sequence spread spectrum). There is provided a training section based on short code spread with the same pattern repeated for each symbol length. Actual communication itself is preceded by coherent channel measurement of a transmission channel by using the training section to specify a length of the short code to be a measurement period and using N cycles of a carrier as a time resolution for measurement. A chip timing is controlled at the time resolution for measurement. At all points given by a time resolution for a measurement period, a measured value is obtained by using the short code to despread A/D-converted values from an input signal based on the chip timing.

The present invention relates to a communication apparatus and a communication method compliant with ultra wide band (UWB) communication systems for using an impulse signal sequence having a very short cycle of approximately several hundred picoseconds to configure an information signal and transmitting and receiving the signal sequence. Particularly, the present invention relates to a communication apparatus and a communication method for transmission and reception using a pulse that solves spectrum problems in an ultra wide band (UWB) communication system.
More specifically, the present invention relates to a communication apparatus and a communication method compliant with ultra wide band communication systems for improving resistance to interfering waves in combination with DS-SS (direct sequence spread spectrum).

Wide band communication reception apparatus and method


A water sport device with an adjustable boot. The boot is mounted to a support on which the user rides. The boot includes separate toe and heel portions that are adjustable to fit the needs of the user, and to also accommodate different users. One or more rails extend along the support and provide for adjustment of the boot. Each of the one or more rails includes an adjustment mechanism that can be rotated by the user to move the toe and heel portions relative to each other to adjust the boot size. Each rail may also include a locking mechanism to prevent adjustment of the boot. When engaged, the locking mechanism may prevent any adjustment of the boot, or may prevent enlargement of the boot but allow for additional reduction in boot size.

The present application is directed to an adjustable boot for use with a water sport device such as water skis or waterboards and, more particularly, to an adjustable boot that is straight-forward to adjust and provides for secure fit for a user's foot.
Water sports in which a user is pulled across a surface of a body of water while riding on a support such as a board or ski continue to be popular. These water sports may include but are not limited to wakeboarding, kiteboarding, and water skiing. These sports include the user being pulled across the water by a variety of forces, including but not limited to a motorboat, pulley system, and wind power.
Basic equipment necessary for these sports includes one or more supports on which the user stands while being pulled. This may include the user using a single support such as a waterboard, or using a pair of supports such as water skis. Each of the supports is equipped with one or more boots each configured to receive a foot of the user. The boot is important to the overall functionality of the water sport device as it supports the user's foot and keeps the support attached to the user during use. A boot that is too large is not effective as it easily falls off during use. A boot that is too small is also ineffective because it is uncomfortable and/or not usable by the user.
Because a support may be used by different users, the boot may be adjustable to accommodate users with different feet sizes. This may include the boot being made from multiple sections that may be movable relative to each other to adjust to fit the size of the particular user.
A drawback of existing adjustable boots is the difficulty in adjusting the size to accommodate the user's foot. The mechanism for adjusting the size may be difficult to use. This may include difficulty in adjusting the size of the boot, or the inability to properly size the boot for a particular user. Further, the boots are often not durable and have a limited life expectancy. The relatively short life expectancy is caused by the stresses applied to the boot by the user during use, as well as the various impacts encountered when the user falls from the device while being pulled across the water.

Adjustable boot for a water sport device


An automatic end of row detection and compacting sequence for a cotton harvesting machine which is initiated responsive to the machine ceasing harvesting at the end of a crop row, as represented by a condition such as raising a picker drum of the machine from a harvesting position to a non-harvesting position. Steps of the sequence can include ceasing operation of augers of compactor apparatus located in the cotton receiver are turned off, and moving the compactor apparatus downwardly within a cotton receiver of the machine and against cotton accumulated in the lower region of the receiver, one or more times, for further and better compacting the cotton. Then, when the machine is aligned with a new swath or row and a condition such as the picker unit being lowered to the harvesting position, normal operation of the compactor apparatus can be resumed.

Commonly, known cotton harvesting machines include a basket or other receiver which serves as a compacting chamber for packaging or compacting the harvested cotton into a unitary body or module. Compactor apparatus including a frame supporting at least one auger is typically disposed in an upper region of the basket or other receiver and is modulated downwardly with the auger or augers actuated for distributing the cotton in the basket and then with the augers off compacting it downwardly against a floor of the basket. The packing occurs in process, as the cotton is being harvested and conveyed into the chamber, and is typically initiated from one of three conditions including (1) auger pressure exceeding a threshold limit; (2) a yield signal from a yield monitor reaching a set point; and (3) achieving a count value set by the operator. However, each of these conditions will be present only when the harvesting machine is harvesting, not when the machine is between passes through the field, which would be an ideal time to add compaction cycles so as to better compact the module or body of cotton.
Thus, what is sought is a process for determining an end of row or swath and automatically initiating a compacting sequence, to provide the advantages and overcome one or more of the problems set forth above.

End of row detection and compacting sequence for a cotton harvesting machine


In some embodiments, a request to retrieve a photograph is received. The request is interpreted and associated metadata for the requested photograph is retrieved. A determination is then made as to whether to retrieve the content of the photograph from either a multi-image container file or from a photo cache. The content of the photograph is then retrieved from the determined source. Finally, the content of the photograph and associated metadata are displayed on a display.

Modern storage systems store many different types of objects (e.g. text files, XML files, image files, video files, etc.). With the proliferation of social networking and other technologies that increase the ease and capabilities with which users may share information, sharing information between geographically dispersed users has rapidly increased and the demand for efficient, lightweight storage of digital images in particular has rapidly increased.
To maintain near instantaneous access to photos and other objects, storage systems must constantly store higher volumes of information while constantly improving access rates to these higher volumes of information. Various methods have been proposed and implemented to store more information (e.g. deduplication) and improve access rates (e.g. use solid-state drives), but very few solutions have taken advantage of the unique storage and retrieval requirements for photographs.
There is a need, therefore, for an improved method, article of manufacture, and apparatus for content storage and retrieval that takes advantage of this unique characteristic of photo storage.

Lightweight appliance for content retrieval


A stop arrangement for forming an adjustable stop between a first component and a second component that are movable in relation to each other, in particular between a vehicle body and a flap hinge-connected to it, including a fastening element which is connected to the first component and has a first threaded portion, and including a stop part, which serves as a stop for the second component and has a second threaded portion, which can be brought into engagement with the first threaded portion in such a way that, by turning the stop part, the distance of the latter from the first component can be set.

Such a stop arrangement is known, for example, from the document EP 1 600 590 A2.
The production of motor-vehicle bodies and body parts is subject to tolerances. On the other hand, one aim in the body making business is to avoid rattling. However, with a hinged connection of a flap such as a tailgate or an engine bonnet to a vehicle body, these tolerances may cause rattling to occur. It is accordingly desired to keep the flap in place on the body under a slight tension when it is in a closed state to prevent rattling noises. This takes place by providing adjustable stop arrangements on the body and/or on the flap to make it possible to compensate for the tolerances for each individual vehicle. This may involve providing a stop arrangement that comprises a buffer part or damping part which butts directly against the other component (for example against the body). Alternatively, it is possible to provide a stop arrangement that forms a fixed stop on one of the components and for the stop arrangement to be assigned a buffer element or damping element on the other component.
In the case of the stop arrangement that is known from the document EP 1 600 590 A2, a stop arrangement is formed by providing a body panel with a hole in which a cage with an internal thread is inserted. The cage is formed in the manner of a pot and extends to the inner side of the body part. A threaded stud that forms the stop can be screwed into the cage. The distance between the upper side of the threaded stud and the body can be set by turning the threaded stud. Furthermore, means for securing the position of the threaded stud set in this way are provided.
Against this background, it is one aspect of the invention to provide an improved stop arrangement and an improved method for setting up a stop for two components that are movable with respect to each other.
The above aspect may be achieved in the case of the stop arrangement according to the invention by the fastening element being formed as a stud which is rigidly joined to a surface of the first component.
Furthermore, the above aspect may be achieved by a method for setting up a stop for two components that are movable with respect to each other, comprising the steps of:                joining a stud having a first threaded portion to a surface of one of the components;        fixing a latching part to the stud;        screwing a stop part having a second threaded portion onto the stud, the stop part coming into latching engagement with the latching part; and        turning the stop part on the stud in a latching manner until a desired height of the stop part with respect to the one component is achieved.
In the case of exemplary embodiment of the stop arrangement according to the invention and exemplary embodiment of the method according to the invention, a stop may be formed without it being necessary to provide an opening in the respective component. This allows problems with regard to sealing and corrosion to be avoided.
The stud can be connected to the respective component in any way desired, for example by adhesive bonding. For example, the stud may be joined to the surface of the component by the stud welding that is known in the prior art. It goes without saying here that the stud is formed from an electrically conductive material such as a metal.
Furthermore, the stop arrangement can be obtained with very few components, in the simplest case just with the stud and the stop part.
The stop part may be formed in the manner of a shroud and covers the stud.
In this way, the stop arrangement can be formed in an aesthetically attractive manner.
According to a another embodiment, the stop part may have a central portion, on which the second threaded portion is formed, and a shroud portion extending from it.
The central portion may, for example, be a screw portion, which is screwed into a threaded bore of the stud. The stud may be formed with an external thread and the central portion may be formed as a hollow portion with an internal thread.
The stop part may be designed in such a way that it does not touch the component in any screwed position, in order to avoid accumulations of water in this region. However, according to an exemplary embodiment, the shroud portion of the stop part may cover over a flange portion that is often provided on the stud, so that only the shroud-shaped stop part can be seen from the outside.
The fixing of the stop part with respect to the stud can take place in any way desired, for example by an adhesive, such as a delayed-curing adhesive.
In an exemplary embodiment, a latching part to which the stop part is fixed in a latching manner in the circumferential direction is rigidly fixed to the stud.
In the case of this embodiment, the stop arrangement can be obtained with only three components. The latching part can be rigidly fixed to the stud after the stud is joined onto the surface of the component. Then different latching positions in which the stop part is respectively fixed can be obtained between the stop part and the latching part during the turning of the stop part.
The stud may have a shank portion and a flange portion, which projects in the radial direction with respect to the shank portion, the latching part being fixed to the flange portion.
Such a flange portion is provided on the stud with preference between the shank portion and the joining location. Furthermore, the flange portion also extends in the radial direction with respect to the joining location and is kept at a distance from the component.
The latching part may have at least one latching nose which engages axially behind the flange portion.
In this way, the latching part can be fixed in the axial direction by a simple working step, to be specific by clipping onto the stud.
According to another embodiment, the flange portion and the latching part respectively have a twist-preventing contour, which act on each other in such a way that the latching part is fixed on the stud in the circumferential direction.
Such a twist-preventing contour may, for example, be a polygonal contour which is formed on the outer circumference of the flange portion (or on the inner circumferential portion of the latching part).
Furthermore, the latching part may have at least one latching lug on which the stop part acts.
The latching lug may be fixed in the circumferential direction and in the axial direction with respect to the stud, but with preference can be radially deflected to obtain a latching engagement between the latching part and the stop part.
A plurality of such latching lugs that are spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction are provided on the latching part. In the same way, a plurality of latching noses that are arranged such that they are distributed in the circumferential direction and engage axially behind the flange portion are provided with preference.
The latching part and/or the stop part may be produced from a plastic, for example, by an injection-moulding process.
The stop part may have a shroud portion which covers over the latching part, at least one latching groove which cooperates with the latching lug to fix the stop part in a latching manner in the circumferential direction being formed on an inner circumferential surface of the shroud portion.
However, a latching effect between the latching part and the stop part can also be created by latching grooves being formed on the latching part and latching lugs being formed on the stop part.
According to another embodiment, the stop part has such a latching groove which is formed as a longitudinal groove, that is to say extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal extent of the stud.
Such a stop part can be easily produced by the injection-moulding process.
Furthermore, the stop part may have a fit-facilitating portion, past which a latching lug is guided when the stop part is screwed onto the stud, to be precise until the latching lug acts on the latching groove.
In this way it is first possible to achieve reliable and easy screw engagement between the stop part and the stud before the latching engagement between the stop part and the latching part is set up.
This fit-facilitating portion may be formed in such a way that the latching lug does not act on the stop part at all in this region.
The fit-facilitating portion may have a fitting latching groove which is aligned with the latching groove of the stop part and has a greater depth than the latching groove.
In this way, a latching effect between the stop part and the latching part that can be overcome with little expenditure of force on account of the greater depth of the fitting latching groove is also achieved during the screwing-on operation.
The depth of the fitting latching groove may, for example, be formed such that a worker can screw the stop part onto the stud by hand until the latching lug engages in the actual latching groove (fixing latching groove).
The depth of the fixing latching groove may in this case be chosen such that turning of the stop part is no longer possible by hand, but can only be obtained by means of a tool.
The stop part may have at least one depression for placing a tool.
Such a depression may, for example, be formed on a head portion of the stop part.
As an alternative to this, it is also possible to make the stop part essentially smooth on the outside.
In the case of this embodiment, a tool which acts with frictional engagement on the outer circumference of the stop part is used for the latching adjustment of the stop part.
According to another embodiment, a plurality of markings spaced apart in the circumferential direction are formed on the outside of the stop part.
These markings may, for example, be numbers. This measure allows better orientation for the worker to be obtained during the screwing-on operation.
Furthermore, the stop part may be connected to an elastic buffer part or damping part.
In the case of this embodiment, it is possible to form the stop arrangement in such a way that it cooperates directly with the other component. In other words, for example, a stop face of a tailgate can be pressed directly onto the elastic buffer part of the stop part to keep it in place under tension without any rattling.
The buffer part and the stop part may be produced by a two-component injection-moulding process, so that the buffer part and the stop part are formed in one piece with each other.
However, it is also conceivable to adhesively bond the buffer part to the stop part or connect them in some other way.
The stop arrangement may have a latching part which is fixed to the stud.
As an alternative to this, however, it is also possible that the stud has a latching face on which the stop part is supported in a latching manner in the circumferential direction.
According the stop arrangement can be obtained with only two components.
In the case of the method according to the invention, it is preferred if the stud, the latching part and the stop part are made to match one another in such a way that the stop part can first be screwed onto the stud with little expenditure of force, until the stop part and the latching part come into latching engagement.
Latching engagement is meant here to mean any latching engagement that leads to final fixing of the stop part with respect to the stud in the circumferential direction.
It goes without saying that the features mentioned above and those still to be explained below can be used not only in the combination respectively specified but also in other combinations or on their own without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Stop arrangement and method for setting up a stop for two components that are movable with respect to each other


A communications system includes call devices that are capable of communicating over a packet-based data network. The packet-based data network may be according to an Internet Protocol (IP), for example. The call devices are capable of performing call communications, such as according to a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) or an H.323 Recommendation. Each of the call devices includes a user interface that is customizable to one or multiple configurations depending on which user is using the call device. User identification information is communicated from the call device to a proxy or server that has access to a database. The identification information is used to locate configuration information associated with the user. The corresponding user configuration information is then retrieved from the database and communicated back to the call device to configure the call device user interface.

The invention relates to configuring user interfaces of call devices in a communications system.
Data networks are widely used to link various types of network elements, such as personal computers, servers, gateways, network telephones, and so forth. Data networks may include private networks (such as local area networks or wide area networks) and public networks (such as the Internet). Popular forms of communications between network elements across such data networks include electronic mail, file transfer, web browsing, and other exchanges of digital data.
With the increased capacity and reliability of data networks, voice communications (including telephone calls, video conferencing, and so forth) over data networks have become possible. Voice communications over data networks are unlike voice communications in a circuit-switched network, such as a public switched telephone network (PSTN), which provides users with dedicated, end-to-end circuit connections for the duration of each call. Communications over data networks, such as IP (Internet Protocol) networks, are performed using packets or datagrams that are sent in bursts from a source to one or more destination nodes. Voice data sent over a data network typically shares network bandwidth with conventional non-voice data (e.g., data associated with electronic mail, file transfer, web access, and other traffic).
Various standards have been proposed for voice and multimedia communications over data networks. One such standard is the H.323 Recommendation from the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), which describes terminals, equipment, and services for multimedia communications over data networks.
Another standard for voice and multimedia communications is the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), which establishes, maintains, and terminates multimedia sessions over a data network. SIP is part of a multimedia data and control architecture developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). The IETF multimedia data and control architecture also includes other protocols to enable voice and multimedia sessions over data networks, including the Resource Reservation Protocol (RSVP) for reserving network resources; the Real-Time Transport Protocol (RTP) for transporting real-time data and providing quality of service (QoS) feedback; the Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) for controlling delivery of streaming media; the Session Announcement Protocol (SAP) for advertising multimedia sessions by multicast; and the Session Description Protocol (SDP) for describing multimedia sessions.
A call device in a communications network, such as a packet-based data network, may be configured to have a user interface that is specific for the user of the call device. Examples of call devices may include a network telephone, a computer, a portable device, and other types of devices. The user interface of a telephone may include pre-programmed buttons, such as speed dial buttons and other programmable buttons. Different users may have different preferences on which buttons are used for specific functions. The same also holds true for user interfaces of computer systems. For example, the graphical user interface (GUI) screen provided by a communications application program, such as a telephony application program, may be configured to a specific user's preferences.
If a second user wishes to use a call device configured to a first user's preferences, the second user may have to learn how the user interface is configured or avoid using certain functions all together. Shared devices, such as telephones in a conference room or a visitor's office, may need to be programmed with a generic user interface to avoid confusion. Such generic user interfaces on call devices may not provide a full feature set. For example, speed dial buttons may not be used since different users have different telephone numbers programmed into their speed dial buttons. In addition, buttons on a user interface may have to be specifically labeled to enable usage of those buttons for the desired functions.
A need thus exists for a method and apparatus to provide more convenient user interfaces in call devices that are capable of participating in communications sessions over a network.

Configuring user interfaces of call devices


An image forming apparatus comprises an image information obtainer that obtains image information, a gradation sequence processor that applies multiple types of gradation sequence processing to the image information, and a toner image formation device that forms a toner image based on the image information. A fixing device is provided to fix the toner image onto a recording medium in a fixing process. A temperature controller is also provided to change a start-up temperature of the fixing device before the fixing process. The start-up temperature is changed in accordance with inclusion of a halftone process and a type of the gradation sequence processing applied to the image information.

In electrophotographic image forming apparatuses, such as copiers, printers, facsimile machines, multifunctional machines formed by combining these devices, etc., there is generally provided a fixing device to fuse and fix toner (i.e., developer) onto a recording medium sheet. In such a fixing device, a prescribed temperature often referred to as a fixing temperature is needed for fixing an unfixed toner image, and accordingly is set in advance.
However, the fixing temperature varies depending on the type of toner image and/or recording medium used. Typically, the conditions that cause the fixing temperature to vary include density of toner attracted onto a sheet or the number of isolated toner dots attracted thereto and the like. When relatively large numbers of isolated toner dots are attracted onto a sheet and accordingly a printing rate is relatively high, the fixing temperature generally needs to be higher than when relatively small numbers of isolated toner dots are attracted thereonto, and accordingly the printing rate is relatively low. For this reason, the fixing temperature in conventional image forming apparatuses is set using the most difficult conditions for fixing the toner onto the recording medium.
However, when a fixing operation is executed under such a worst-case scenario even in a situation in which fixing can be carried out easily, the fixing temperature is maintained at an unnecessarily high level, thereby wasting power in a heating system and going against recent energy saving trend.
Further, such a problem relates not only to the fixing temperature of an actual fixing operation but also to that of a start-up temperature for preheating the fixing device executed before starting the fixing operation. Specifically, if the start-up temperature is decreased, energy can be saved by reducing the power to be supplied to the fixing device before start of the fixing operation.
Further, a sleep mode is increasingly employed in an image forming apparatus these days, to be entered immediately after completion of printing as a start-up time period needed before starting up the fixing device decreases. Accordingly, the start-up time period increasingly impacts energy saving.
Japanese Patent No. 3,295,273 (JP-3295273-B) describes a technology capable of changing a start-up time period for starting up a fixing device in accordance with a difference in image resolution between a character mode and a photographic mode. With such a technology, the start-up time can be shortened in the character mode due to its low resolution (i.e., favorableness to fixed condition), thereby further minimizing energy consumption in comparison with a situation in which the start-up time is invariably long.
However, various factors impact the fixed conditions of a toner image beside the resolution thereof. For example, since a dot shape differs depending on the type of gradation sequence processing used, fixing performance is significantly impacted by the type thereof. Accordingly, if the start-up temperature is controlled only based on the resolution of the image as described in JP-3295273-B, no large energy savings can be expected.

Image forming apparatus capable of obtaining good fixed condition regardless of type of gradation sequence processing


An improved ECG electrode connector adapted for attachment to a biomedical patient electrode by either pinch or snap connection is disclosed. A closed-end electrical connector includes pair of pivotally connected members including a main connector body having an electrically conductive plate defining an electrode stud receiving aperture and disposed in proximity to the bottom surface thereof, and a jaw pivotally connected thereto and resiliently biased to a closed position. The jaw is adapted with a beveled surface that functions to urge the jaw in open by engagement of the top surface of an ECG stud thereby allowing the connector to be attached by snap engagement. The electrically conductive plate defines an irregular, generally oval-shaped opening that allows the electrode stud to be inserted through a wide portion of the opening and retained by the narrow portion of the opening. Positioning an electrically conductive plate at the bottom of the connector allows the connector to maximize electrical contact with the electrode stud. An ECG electrode connector in accordance with the present invention may further be fabricated of radiolucent materials.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to electrocardiograph systems, and more particularly to an electrode connector for electrically connecting a signal-conducting leadwire from an electrocardiograph patient monitoring system to a biomedical electrode.
2. Description of Related Art
The electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) system is a common diagnostic tool that measures and records the electrical activity of the heart. An ECG system produces a graphic representation of electrical activity called an electrocardiograph, which records the electrical voltage in the heart in the form of a continuous strip graph. It is the prime tool in cardiac electrophysiology, and has a prime function in screening and diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. Interpretation of these details allows diagnosis of a wide range of heart conditions.
The ECG has a wide variety of uses including: (1) determining whether the heart is performing normally or suffering from abnormalities; (2) indicating acute or previous damage to heart muscle (heart attack) or ischaemia of heart muscle (angina); (3) detecting potassium, calcium, magnesium and other electrolyte disturbances; (4) allowing the detection of conduction abnormalities (heart blocks and bundle branch blocks); (5) as a screening tool for ischaemic heart disease during an exercise tolerance test; (6) providing information on the physical condition of the heart; and (7) providing a tool to diagnose or suggest non-cardiac disease.
An ECG is constructed by measuring electrical potential between various points of the body using a galvanometer. In the United States, leads I, II and III are measured over the limbs: I is from the right to the left arm, II is from the right arm to the left leg and III is from the left arm to the left leg. From this, the imaginary point V is constructed, which is located centrally in the chest above the heart. The other nine leads are derived from potential between this point and the three limb leads (aVR, aVL and aVF) and the six precordial leads (V1-6). Therefore, there may be as many as twelve leads in total.
A typical ECG system relies on electrodes placed on a patient in specific locations to detect electrical impulses generated by the heart during each beat. Electrical impulses detected by the electrodes are communicated to an ECG monitor via a plurality of leadwires, each of which terminated with an electrically conductive electrode connector that is physically connected to one of said electrodes so as to be in electrical communication therewith. The electric signals generated by the heart are weak, typically from 0.5 mV to 2.0 mV.
There are two primary ways in which electrode connectors attach to the studs of biomedical patient electrodes, namely by pinch connection or snap/press connection. Certain electrode connectors are designed for pinch connection. An example of such an electrode connector is found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,178,052, issued to Ekbom, which discloses an open ended electrode connector adapted to pinch the stud of a patient electrode between a pair of jaws. Open ended connectors, however, are burdened with a significant disadvantage, namely a tendency to snare or snag leadwires that happen to come between the opening between the jaws. When wires accidently become snagged, the connector and/or the entire connector and electrode assembly can be unknowingly dislodged from the patient. In an effort to overcome that disadvantage, "closed end" electrode connectors have been developed. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,390,223, issued to Zenkich, discloses a closed end electrode connector. Another category of electrode connectors is referred to as the "snap" connectors. These connectors snap on to the stud of the electrode by application of a downward pressure. An example of such an electrode connector is found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,671,591, issued to Archer. It has been found that pinch connectors are preferred in certain healthcare environments while snap connectors are preferred in other environments. Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved electrode connector that maximizes the advantages of both snap and pinch connectors.
Further, conventional ECG electrodes, connectors, and leadwires are often constructed with metal components that show up clearly on X-rays and other imaging procedures. When those components show-up on X-Rays they can complicate medical procedures by obscuring vital organs and other anatomical structures. Accordingly, transparency to hospital imaging systems, such as X-ray or fluoroscopes, is desirable in many medical procedures so that the patient's body may be X-rayed without removing the flexible leadwires so that the patient's bio-signals may be recorded without interruption.
Although several efforts have been directed towards developing radiolucent ECG components in the past, none of these efforts have heretofore proven successful. U.S. Pat. No. 5,356,428, issued to Way, discloses a radiolucent electrode that replaces conventional foil backing with an expanded foil backing formed by a mesh structure of metal wires that produce a low enough attenuation of X-irradiation such that body structures may be visualized through the backing without significant degradation. U.S. Pat. No. 4,800,887, issued to Shigeta et al., discloses an X-ray transparent electrode fabricated with graphite. U.S. Pat. No. 5,366,497, issued to Ilvento et al., discloses a radiolucent electrode connected to otherwise conventional insulated metal leadwire. U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,860,557 and 7,933,642, each issued to Istvan et al., disclose a radiolucent chest assembly for a wireless monitoring system.
A further shortcoming found with electrode connectors relates to poor electrical contact between the signal conducting stud found on the biomedical electrode and the conducting element. Most electrode connectors include a flat, electrically conducting metal plate that defines an opening or aperture which receives the stud of a biomedical patient electrode. The poor electrical connection is due to the minimal contact between the peripheral edge of the aperture with the outer surface of the electrode stud.
Accordingly, there further exists a need for advancements in the field of electrode connectors for EKG/ECG systems, including improved electrical connections, and improved radiolucent characteristics.

Patient electrode connectors for electrocardiograph monitoring system


A composition of matter for treating sexual dysfunction is described, along with methods of making same, and methods of using same.

Arginine is a conditionally nonessential amino acid, meaning that most of the time it can be manufactured by the human body, and does not need to be obtained directly through the diet. The biosynthetic pathway, however, does not produce sufficient arginine, and some must still be consumed. Individuals with poor nutrition or certain physical conditions may need to increase their intake of foods containing arginine or take arginine supplements.
Arginine is synthesized from citrulline by the sequential action of the cytosolic enzymes argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS) and argininosuccinate lyase (ASL). In terms of energy, this is costly, as the synthesis of each molecule of argininosuccinate requires hydrolysis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine monophosphate (AMP), i.e., two ATP equivalents. In essence, taking an excess of arginine gives more energy by saving ATPs that can be used elsewhere.
Citrulline can be derived from multiple sources:                from arginine via nitric oxide synthase (NOS)        from ornithine via catabolism of proline or glutamine/glutamate        from asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) via DDAH
On a whole-body basis, synthesis of arginine occurs principally via the intestinal-renal axis, wherein epithelial cells of the small intestine, which produce citrulline primarily from glutamine and glutamate, collaborate with the proximal tubule cells of the kidney, which extract citrulline from the circulation and convert it to arginine, which is returned to the circulation. As a consequence, impairment of small bowel or renal function can reduce endogenous arginine synthesis, thereby increasing the dietary requirement.
Synthesis of arginine from citrulline also occurs at a low level in many other cells, and cellular capacity for arginine synthesis can be markedly increased under circumstances that also induce iNOS. Thus, citrulline, a co-product of the NOS-catalyzed reaction, can be recycled to arginine in a pathway known as the citrulline-NO or arginine-citrulline pathway. This is demonstrated by the fact that, in many cell types, citrulline can substitute for arginine to some degree in supporting NO synthesis. However, recycling is not quantitative because citrulline accumulates along with nitrate and nitrite, the stable end-products of NO, in NO-producing cells.
Arginine plays an important role in cell division, the healing of wounds, removing ammonia from the body, immune function, and the release of hormones.
The roles of arginine include:                Precursor for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO). Non-L-arginine derived NO can be generated by the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway that is monitored through saliva testing.        Reduces healing time of injuries (particularly bone).        Quickens repair time of damaged tissue.        Helps decrease blood pressure in clinical hypertensive subjects. NO-mediated decrease in blood pressure is influenced by both the L-arginine-dependent nitric oxide synthase pathway and non-L-arginine or alternative pathway through nitrate-rich foods such as beets and spinach.
Arginine is the immediate precursor of nitric oxide (NO), urea, ornithine, and agmatine; is necessary for the synthesis of creatine; and can also be used for the synthesis of polyamines (mainly through ornithine and to a lesser degree through agmatine), citrulline, and glutamate. As a precursor of nitric oxide, arginine may have a role in the treatment of some conditions where vasodilation is required. The presence of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), a close relative, inhibits the nitric oxide reaction; therefore, ADMA is considered a marker for vascular disease, just as L-arginine is considered a sign of a healthy endothelium.
Intravenously-administered arginine stimulates the secretion of growth hormone, and is used in growth hormone stimulation tests. Two studies have found that oral arginine supplementation is also effective at increasing resting GH levels. The first study found that oral preparations of arginine are effective at increasing growth hormone levels. In fact, the 9-gram dose resulted in mean peak GH levels of 6.4 (+/−1.3) μg/L versus placebo levels of 2.9 (+/−0.7). Another study found similar results. It included resting versus exercise and oral L-arginine versus oral placebo. The authors concluded that "Oral arginine alone (7 g) stimulated GH release, but a greater GH response was seen with exercise alone. The combined effect of arginine before exercise attenuates the GH response . . . GH production: Ex>Arg+Ex>Arg>placebo" suggesting against supplementing with arginine alone prior to exercise if the goal is to raise GH levels, but concurring with the previous study that oral L-arginine increases GH on days free of significant exercise.
In contrast to these two studies that found increased resting GH due to oral arginine supplementation, a third study did not find increase in resting GH levels from oral supplementation. In that study, oral preparations of L-arginine were ineffective at increasing growth hormone levels despite being effective at increasing plasma levels of L-arginine. However, bioavailability data was not available, and it is possible that quality, stability and/or uptake was a problem.
Intravenous infusion of arginine reduces blood pressure in patients with hypertension as well as normal subjects. A meta-analysis showed that L-arginine reduces blood pressure with pooled estimates of 5.4/2.7 mmHg for SBP/DBP. Supplementation with L-arginine reduces diastolic blood pressure and lengthens pregnancy for women with gestational hypertension, including women with high blood pressure as part of pre-eclampsia. It does not, however, lower systolic blood pressure or improve the baby's weight at birth.
Carnitine is another important biological molecule. It is a quaternary ammonium compound biosynthesized from the amino acids lysine and methionine. Carnitine exists in two stereoisomers: its biologically active form is L-carnitine, whereas its enantiomer, D-carnitine, is biologically inactive.
In eukaryotic cells, carnitine is required for the transport of fatty acids from the intermembraneous space in the mitochondria, into the mitochondrial matrix during the breakdown of lipids (fats) for the generation of metabolic energy, and is widely available as a nutritional supplement. Carnitine was originally found as a growth factor for mealworms and labeled vitamin BT, although carnitine is not a proper vitamin.
Carnitine transports long-chain acyl groups from fatty acids into the mitochondrial matrix, so they can be broken down through β-oxidation to acetyl CoA to obtain usable energy via the citric acid cycle. Fatty acids must be activated before binding to the carnitine molecule to form 'acylcarnitine'. The free fatty acid in the cytosol is attached with a thioester bond to coenzyme A (CoA). This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme fatty acyl-CoA synthetase and driven to completion by inorganic pyrophosphatase.
The acyl group on CoA can now be transferred to carnitine and the resulting acylcarnitine transported into the mitochondrial matrix. This occurs via a series of similar steps:                Acyl CoA is transferred to the hydroxyl group of carnitine by carnitine acyltransferase I (palmitoyltransferase) located on the outer mitochondrial membrane.        Acylcarnitine is shuttled inside by a carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase.        Acylcarnitine is converted to acyl CoA by carnitine acyltransferase II (palmitoyltransferase) located on the inner mitochondrial membrane. The liberated carnitine returns to the cytosol.
Human genetic disorders, such as primary carnitine deficiency, carnitine palmitoyltransferase I deficiency, carnitine palmitoyltransferase II deficiency and carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase deficiency, affect different steps of this process.
Carnitine acyltransferase I and peroxisomal carnitine octanoyl transferase (CROT) undergo allosteric inhibition as a result of malonyl-CoA, an intermediate in fatty acid biosynthesis, to prevent futile cycling between β-oxidation and fatty acid synthesis.
There may be a link between dietary consumption of carnitine and atherosclerosis, but there is also evidence that it lowers the risk of mortality and arrythmias after an acute myocardial infarction.
When certain species of intestinal bacteria were exposed to carnitine from food, they produced a waste product, trimethylamine, which is transformed in the liver to trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). TMAO may be associated with atherosclerosis. The presence of large amounts of TMAO-producing bacteria was a consequence of a long-term diet rich in meat. However, when the authors compared the risk of cardiovascular events to the levels of carnitine and TMAO, they found that the risk was higher in those with higher TMAO levels, independent of the carnitine levels.
Vegetarian and vegans who ate a single meal of meat had much lower levels of TMAO in their bloodstream than did regular meat-eaters, as vegetarian and vegans had lower levels of the intestinal bacteria that converts carnitine into TMAO.
Another study has found evidence of a second path for atherogenic activity of carnitine, passing through a different metabolite: γ-butyrobetaine (γBB)
In the course of human aging, carnitine concentration in cells diminishes, affecting fatty acid metabolism in various tissues. Particularly adversely affected are bones, which require continuous reconstructive and metabolic functions of osteoblasts for maintenance of bone mass. A 2008 study found that supplementing with L-carnitine decreased bone turnover and increased bone mineral density in rats.
A 2004 study found that L-carnitine acts as a peripheral antagonist of thyroid hormone action. In particular, L-carnitine inhibits both triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) entry into the cell nuclei. For this reason, L-carnitine has been proposed as a supplement to treat hyperthyroidism. A 2001 study found that L-carnitine was useful in both reversing and preventing hyperthyroid symptoms.
Carnitine has been proposed as a supplement to treat a variety of health conditions including heart attack, heart failure, angina, narcolepsy, and diabetic neuropathy, but not fatigue, improving exercise performance, nor wasting syndrome (weight loss). There is also some suggestion that use of acetyl-carnitine and L-arginine may improve sperm motility in men with sperm abnormalities.
Dehydroepiandrosterone/dehydroepiandrostenedione (DHEA, more correctly didehydroepiandrosterone), also known as androstenolone or prasterone (INN), as well as 3β-hydroxyandrost-5-en-17-one or 5-androsten-3β-ol-17-one, is an important endogenous steroid hormone. It is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans, in whom it is produced in the adrenal glands, the gonads, and the brain, where it functions predominantly as a metabolic intermediate in the biosynthesis of the androgen and estrogen sex steroids. However, DHEA also has a variety of potential biological effects in its own right, binding to an array of nuclear and cell surface receptors, and acting as a neurosteroid.
Zinc and magnesium are also essential elements in the human body. Zinc is an essential trace element for humans, is found in hundreds of enzymes, serves as structural ions in transcription factors and is stored and transferred in metallothioneins. It is typically the second most abundant transition metal in organisms after iron and it is the only metal which appears in all enzyme classes.
There are 2-4 grams of zinc distributed throughout the human body. Most zinc is in the brain, muscle, bones, kidney, and liver, with the highest concentrations in the prostate and parts of the eye. Semen is particularly rich in zinc, which is a key factor in prostate gland function and reproductive organ growth.
In humans, zinc interacts with a wide range of organic ligands, and has roles in the metabolism of RNA and DNA, signal transduction, and gene expression. It also regulates apoptosis. A 2006 study estimated that about 10% of human proteins (2800) potentially bind zinc, in addition to hundreds which transport and traffic zinc; a similar in silico study in the plant Arabidopsis thaliana found 2367 zinc-related proteins.
In the brain, zinc is stored in specific synaptic vesicles by glutamatergic neurons and can modulate brain excitability. It plays a key role in synaptic plasticity and so in learning. However, it has been called "the brain's dark horse" because it also can be a neurotoxin, suggesting zinc homeostasis plays a critical role in normal functioning of the brain and central nervous system.
Because of the important interaction between phosphate and magnesium ions, magnesium ions are essential to the basic nucleic acid chemistry of life, and thus are essential to all cells of all known living organisms. Over 300 enzymes require the presence of magnesium ions for their catalytic action, including all enzymes utilizing or synthesizing ATP, or those that use other nucleotides to synthesize DNA and RNA. ATP exists in cells normally as a chelate of ATP and a magnesium ion.
Magnesium deficiency (hypomagnesemia) is common and vastly under reported: it is found in 2.5-15% of the general population but may be much higher due to the body's attempt to keep blood magnesium levels relatively stable by releasing magnesium from bone and tissues. So, even though the blood level may be normal, the body may actually be deficient. The primary cause of deficiency is decreased dietary intake: only 32% of people in the United States meet the recommended daily allowance. Other causes are increased renal or gastrointestinal loss, an increased intracellular shift, and proton-pump inhibitor antacid therapy. Most are asymptomatic, but symptoms referable to neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and metabolic dysfunction may occur. Alcoholism is often associated with magnesium deficiency. Chronically low serum magnesium levels are associated with metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus type 2 and hypertension.
Not surprisingly, the patent literature is replete with medical uses for these molecules and trace elements, or uses as nutritional support uses for certain disease states. However, there is always room for improved formulations designed to treat specific conditions.

Composition of matter for sexual dysfunction


A substrate for controlling the growth direction of serve fibers charcterized in that a nerve cell adhesive substance is fixed in the form of a desired pattern and a process for preparing the substrate, a method for controlling the growth direction of nerve fibers and a neuronal network.. According to this invention, precise control of nerve fibers' growth direction is achieved.

The present invention relates to a substrate for controlling the growth direction of nerve fibers and a process for preparing the substrate, a method for controlling the growth direction of nerve fibers and a neuronal network.
In recent years, attempts to guide nerve fibers in a specific direction have been prompted by rapid progress in cell technology. In particular, rising interest in a neuro-computer has led to the desire for the development of a technique to guide nerve fibers in a specific direction. There is an example of the technique to control adhering portions of nerve cells as follows. A resist pattern is formed on a base plate of silicone, according to a procedure such as photolithography. After introducing alkyl groups with a silane coupling agent having an alkyl group, the resist is removed. Then, amino groups are introduced in the portions from which the resist was removed by treating with a silane coupling agent having a primary amino group. Nerve cells which are cultured on the base plate, whereon the two-dimensional fine pattern consisting of alkyl groups and amino groups is formed in the above-mentioned manner, are selectively adhered to amino groups. In this example of controlling the growth direction of nerve fibers, nerve fibers are grown along regular continuous channels which are formed according to the procedures of lithography and ion-etching on a base plate of quartz.
However, since selectivity in the adhesion of nerve cells or nerve fibers is poor according to the above-mentioned method, the desired control of the growth direction has not been achieved. Further, another problem is that the processes of preparing the substrate for culturing are complicated and expensive according to the above-mentioned method.
An object of the invention is to provide a substrate on which selectivity in the adhesion of nerve cells or nerve fibers is high and the growth direction of nerve fibers is satisfactorily controlled.
It is an object of the invention to provide a process for preparing the said substrate.
A further object of the invention is to provide a method for controlling the growth direction of nerve fibers.
It is a still further object of the invention to provide an artificial neuronal network in a form of a desired pattern.
These and other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description hereinafter.

Substrate for controlling growth direction of nerve fibers and process for preparing the same, method for controlling growth direction of nerve fibers and artificial neuronal network by the same

Kanegafuchi Kagaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha


A wireless receiver 300 and corresponding method to detect a message identifier or preamble that has been generated and provided by a transmitter 200 uses FFTs to estimate frequency and time offset. The wireless receiver 300 scans, asynchronously and sequentially during a wakeup time, a plurality of predetermined frequencies for the message identifier or specialized preamble. A plurality of received sample sequences are collected, one received sample sequence collected at each of the plurality of predetermined frequencies. A correlation between data corresponding to the preamble and data corresponding to a received sample sequence is compared to a threshold value to determine when the preamble has been detected. The wireless receiver 300 is wakened from a low power mode when the preamble is detected.

In radio communication systems it is normally necessary for a receiver to determine whether a transmitter is trying to initiate a communication. In such systems where the transmitter is normally active or systems where the air interface includes scheduling information, this issue is readily resolved. However in systems using an asynchronous protocol for communications, determining whether a communication is desired in an efficient manner is still a significant problem. This problem is further exacerbated where the particular frequency for the communications is unknown and by frequency mismatches between the transmitter and receiver, particularly for battery life sensitive applications. The power consumed in monitoring for an asynchronous communication from another device to determine whether an attempt to communicate has occurred may significantly reduce the battery life and thus available service time of the mobile unit. Clearly a method and apparatus are needed for identifying when communications are desired, preferably in a time and power efficient manner given frequency offsets between communications devices.

Method and wireless device employing a preamble to initiate communications


A fastener operable to fasten to a strap having a tensioned segment and a loose segment includes a planar profile having at least two sides defining an elongated wrap section configured for having the loose segment of the strap wrapped around it, and at least one slot configured to clip onto the tensioned segment of the strap, and retain the loose segment of the strap wrapped around the elongated wrap section against the tensioned segment of the strap.

Tie-down straps or cargo straps are commonly used in the course of farm work, hunting, recreation, and transporting cargo, equipment, and materials, for example. These cargo straps are generally made of a flat webbing and typically used with hooks on the two ends with a ratcheting or locking mechanism. The cargo straps are typically made of a woven lightweight, flexible, and high tensile strength material. These cargo straps are commonly used to secure articles and items in or on trailers, pickup trucks, vehicles, platforms, etc. After the articles are secured there is always an excess length of the webbing strap that should be secured so it doesn't whip around in the wind during transit, damage adjacent items, or become a trip hazard. Conventionally, users often leave the strap end loose, or tie the strap in sloppy and haphazard knots.


The subject invention addresses the need for methods of treatment and prevention of breast cancer, and other cancers, by providing a peptide of eight to twenty amino acids in length which comprises a hydrophilic analog of an alpha-fetoprotein peptide having SEQ ID NO:6: EMTPVNPG. The peptides may be linear, but are preferably cyclic. The peptides may be provided as dimers or other multimers. A composition comprising the peptide, an antibody that specifically binds to the peptide, a method of reducing estrogen-stimulated growth of cells using the peptide, as well as a method of treating or preventing cancer, such as breast cancer, are also provided. The treatment or prevention method can include the use of tamoxifen therapy in combination with the peptide therapy.

Throughout this application various publications are referenced, many in parenthesis. Full citations for each of these publications are provided at the end of the Detailed Description. The disclosures of each of these publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference in this application.
Every year in the U.S., 180,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed and approximately 60% of these are ER+ (Martin et al. 1994). Moreover, every year there are a substantial number of breast cancer recurrences and many of these are ER+. Tamoxifen has been the mainstay for medical treatment of ER+ breast cancer and has provided significant clinical benefit (Fisher et al. 1989; Fisher et al. 1998). However, there is a substantial number of ER+ breast cancers that are refractory to tamoxifen due to either intrinsic or acquired resistance. New treatments for these ER+, tamoxifen-refractory breast cancers are needed, and some promising agents are currently being evaluated in clinical trial. Letrozole, which blocks estrogen synthesis by inhibiting aromatase, and goserelin, which stifles ovarian release of estrogen by inhibiting gonadotropin release, are both being tested for this purpose (Goss et al. 2001; Nystedt et al. 2000).
Several population and epidemiologic studies as well as laboratory studies have indicated that alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) interferes with estrogen-dependent responses, including the growth-promoting effects of estrogen on breast cancer (Bennett et al. 1998). For example, Couinaud et al. (1973) have reported that women with AFP-secreting hepatomas develop amenorrhea which self-corrects following removal of the hepatoma, and Mizejewski et al. (1983) have shown that AFP inhibits the responsiveness of the uterus to estrogen. Jacobson et al. (1989) and Richardson et al. (1998) have shown that elevated levels of AFP during pregnancy are associated with subsequent reduction in lifetime risk for breast cancer, and Jacobson et al. have hypothesized that this could be caused by a diminution in estrogen-dependent breast cancers (Jacobson et al. 1989). Sonnenschein et al. (1980) have shown in rats that an AFP-secreting hepatoma prevents the growth of an estrogen-dependent breast cancer in the same rat. Finally, it has been shown that AFP purified from a human hepatoma culture and then injected into tumor-bearing immune-deficient mice stopped the growth of estrogen-receptor-positive (ER+), but not estrogen-receptor-negative (ER−), human breast cancer xenografts in these mice, and did so by a mechanism different from that of tamoxifen (Bennett et al. 1998).
More recently, the active site of AFP responsible for its antiestrotrophic activity has been identified (Mesfin et al. 2000). It consists of amino acids 472–479 (SEQ ID NO:6: EMTPVNPG), an 8-mer sequence in the 580-amino acid AFP molecule.
Aggregation of proteins and peptides has been seen with full length AFP as well as with subunits of AFP. Wu et al. (1985) showed that AFP tends to form aggregates, which may contribute to its loss of anti-estrotrophic activity during storage. Eisele et al. (2001) reported that oligomers of various sizes formed during storage of a 34-mer peptide (amino acids 447–480) derived from AFP. Similar aggregation behavior has been seen with a number of other protein and peptide pharmaceuticals including human interferon gamma (Kendrick et al. 1998), human calcitonin (Bauer et al. 1994), insulin (Sluzky et al. 1991), and synthetic beta-amyloid peptide (Hilbich et al. 1991; Christmanson et al. 1993; Halverson et al. 1990). Hughes et al. (1996) and Hilbich et al. (1992) reported inhibition of amyloid peptide aggregation by substitution of hydrophobic phenylalanine with hydrophilic threonine or by adding poly-lysine at the carboxy-terminus of the amyloid peptide.
As indicated above, tamoxifen is currently the most widely used agent for the treatment of estrogen-responsive breast cancers and has provided significant benefit to women with this disease (Fisher et al. 1989; Fisher et al. 1998). However, one problem connected with its clinical use is that not all ER+ breast cancers are sensitive to this drug. About one-third to one-sixth (depending on the lab cutoff for ER positivity) of the ER+, newly diagnosed breast cancers do not respond to tamoxifen (Jensen et al. 1996). Moreover, it is not uncommon that women whose disease is being successfully managed by tamoxifen therapy will in time experience recurrence during treatment apparently because their tumor has acquired resistance to the drug. Because these two groups constitute a substantial number of woman whose disease fails to respond to tamoxifen therapy, it is important to seek alternative treatment methods.

Alpha-fetoprotein peptides and uses thereof

CLF Medical Technology Acceleration Program, Inc.


A vehicle safety warning signal system for use on a bicycle, motorcycle, or like vehicle comprises: an elongate air pump (101) having a longitudinal length, the pump being provided to function as a visual warning device, such as, for example, by way of inclusion of an electrically powered light (105); and an attachment assembly configured to releasably attach the pump to the vehicle for operation in providing a visual warning signal, wherein: the attachment assembly is configured to hold the pump in at least a first position such that the longitudinal length of the pump is transverse to the main plane of the frame of the vehicle.

Vehicle safety devices and systems, such as devices and system comprising lights are known for use on bicycles, motorcycles or like vehicles.
Typically such two wheeled or three wheeled vehicles are operated by a person riding the vehicle via peddling a geared chain and cog arrangement whilst the vehicle is steered by a set of suitably configured handle bars. Persons' riding such vehicles are directly exposed to traffic that passes by as well as on coming traffic. Riding of such vehicles is known to be associated with a relatively high degree of risk in terms of danger to the rider. To reduce the risk of a collision with another vehicle that is passing by from behind, oncoming or coming from a side direction it is known to have a configuration of visual warning signal devices located at various points on the vehicle.
British patent publication no. GB 2374656 (Beard) discloses a bicycle light attached to the ends of the handle bars and configured to emit white light in a first direction and red light in the opposite direction. In this way a warning signal is respectively provided to oncoming traffic and traffic coming from behind. The system disclosed in GB 2374656 is advantageously used in combination with a traditional "back and front" bicycle light arrangement since it provides a visual warning signal to vehicles that are passing by as regards the extent of the space occupied by the rider of a vehicle and therefore aids the driver of a passing vehicle to keep a safe distance from the rider's vehicle.
Further vehicle safety lighting systems are known, such as, for example, that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,379,197 (Conyers GPMRR Enterprises). This reference discloses an apparatus configured for use towards the rear of the vehicle and which comprises an elongate member having an illuminating lens that extends beyond the side of the vehicle, the device also being able to be stored in a vertical position behind the seat of the bicycle. In its operational position this device provides a similar safety function to that described in GB 2374656, in that it provides a "distance" warning to passing vehicles.
Yet a further vehicle warning signal device, configured for use on bicycles and motorcycles, is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,342,280 (Ashworth). This device comprises a warning reflector that is configured to protrude from the side of the vehicle to which it is attached. Again this kind of device is configured to act as a signal for indicating distance between a passing vehicle and the riders vehicle.
In view of increasing motorized traffic on the roads there is a need to improve safety for riders of motorcycles, cycles and like vehicles. Furthermore, to reduce traffic congestion there is a need to encourage drivers of motorized vehicles to turn to alternative forms of transport, such as bicycles and like vehicles that are as safe as possible.
In view of the above there remains a need to further improve safety for riders of bicycle, motorcycle and like vehicles. Due to the nature of such vehicles there is an inherent lack of storage space with the vehicle controls and seating typically being exposed to the elements. Therefore it is of paramount importance to utilise any existing features and components of such vehicles so as to maximise efficiency. In particular it is desirable to incorporate improvements to vehicle safety lighting and light reflector systems as a part of pre-existing components.

Vehicle safety warning signal devices and system for use on a bicycle, motorcycle or like vehicle


A method for forming field effect transistors comprises forming a first dummy gate stack over a first fin, forming a second dummy gate stack over a second fin, depositing a first layer of spacer material on the first dummy gate stack, the first fin, the second dummy gate stack, and the second fin, patterning a first masking layer on the first dummy gate stack and the first fin, etching to remove portions of the first layer of spacer material and form a spacer adjacent to the second dummy gate stack, removing the first masking layer, epitaxially growing a silicon material on the second fin, depositing a layer of oxide material on the first layer of spacer material, the first epitaxial material and the second dummy gate stack, and depositing a second layer of spacer material on the layer of oxide material.

The present invention relates to field effect transistors (FET), and more specifically, to finFET devices.
FinFET devices typically include semiconductor fins that are arranged on a substrate. Gate stacks are arranged on the fins and define channel regions of the device. The source and drain active regions of the device are adjacent to the channel region.
In fabrication, sacrificial dummy gate stacks are often formed prior to forming the active regions of the device. The dummy gate stacks define the channel region, and are formed from a material such as polysilicon. A material such as nitride or oxide is often used to form spacers adjacent to the gate stacks. The dummy gate stacks allow fabrication processes such as ion implantation and annealing or epitaxial growth process to be performed prior to forming the gate stacks. Such high temperature processes can undesirably degrade the materials in the gate stacks, thus the dummy gate is used to define and protect the channel region while the active regions are formed.
Often a wafer includes nFET and pFET devices. The devices are distinguished by the type of materials in the active regions of the devices. The active regions may be formed by ion implantation and/or epitaxially growing doped silicon materials.

Forming field effect transistor device spacers

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION


The invention deals with a sheet-metal bending machine containing a lower machine part and an upper machine part mounted on it in a movable way where on either of the upper and lower machine part there is a pair of working tools designed as a bending arm and a holding arm where the principle is that the upper machine part (3), or at least the pair of the working tools connected to it, is, in relation to the lower machine part (2), or at least in relation to the pair of the working tools connected to it in the feeding direction (L) of the processed metal sheet (14), mounted in a mutually horizontally sliding bond.

At present, sheet-metal bending machines are known that bend sheets in various directions while during the bending the processed object does not have to rotate between individual bending steps. For this purpose in the existing machines the sheet-metal is clamped between the upper and lower holding arm and being clamped this way it is bent or folded either from the top by the upper bending device or arm or from the bottom by the lower bending device or arm. A disadvantage of the operation of the machines of this type consists in the fact that until the moment of bending the inactive bending arm must be away from the bending space, which is achieved by turning or shifting of the arm that is inactive at the particular moment, e.g. with the use of a hydraulic cylinder. In such a situation it is necessary to achieve the corresponding wider turning or shifting movement if the remaining range of movement at that moment should not be limited. On the basis of the described state of the art the purpose of the invention appears to be the creation of a sheet-metal bending machine that would have a simple structure and at the same time enable bending in a large angular range and where it would be possible to carry out a quick change of the machine adjustment or its re-adjustment to bending in a different direction than in the previous bending step.

Sheet-metal bending machine, preferentially hydro-powered machine, and a method of its operation


Adjustable storage units for a vehicle and a method for providing such units are disclosed. The storage units generally include opposing end panels connected by a connecting member along the rear of the end panels. One or more shelf supports are releasably connected to the inner surface of the end panels only through apertures in the end panels. Shelves and/or drawer systems are made from polymer materials are then disposed between the end panels. The end panels may also be made of polymer materials. The storage units are adjustable or reconfigurable by removing the shelves or drawers and repositioning the shelf supports or drawer supports as desired.

The present invention relates to storage units for vehicles and specifically to an adjustable storage system for use in vehicles.
Service professionals, e.g., plumbers, contractors, cable or telephone installers, electricians, etc., are commonly required to carry in their vehicles a large number and variety of tools, parts, equipment and the like necessary to perform their work. The tools, parts, equipment, etc., can range from large or bulky tools or spools of cable to smaller tools, fasteners, spare parts, etc. As such, it is known to equip service vehicles with storage units to house items of various sizes.
Many of the storage units known in the art are steel units that include steel end panels, a back panel and steel shelving. The shelves of these storage units are essentially tray structures having a bottom and four sides extending perpendicular from and perpendicular to the bottom. The shelves are fitted between the two end panels adjacent the back panel to provide a storage unit. The shelves are held in position by connecting the shelves directly to each of the end panels and the back panel. The shelves may be held in position by welding the sides of the shelves to the end panels and the back panel or by mechanical fasteners connecting the shelves to each of the end and back panels through the sides of the shelves.
There are several disadvantages associated with these known storage units. Storage units known in the art are essentially as-is structures that are not easily reconfigurable or adjustable. It may be advantageous or even necessary for a worker to house an item in the vehicle for which no space currently exists. Therefore, it would be beneficial for the worker to be able to reconfigure the storage system in his vehicle by moving, adding or removing shelving, drawers, etc. Shelves that are welded to the end and back panels are not removable (or, at least, not easily removed). In the storage unit described above, shelves or drawers are connected to both back panels and the end panels and therefore cannot be adjusted or reconfigured without either completely removing the unit from the vehicle or unmounting the end panels and back panel.
Additionally, several disadvantages are associated with the all steel construction of the storage units. First, the all steel construction may create a noisy environment. When empty, the steel units are prone to rattling during the operation of the vehicle. The noise level may be increased when the units are filled with various equipment including metal tools or parts. Second, the all steel units can be rather heavy, and added weight to a vehicle may increase fuel consumption for operation of the vehicle and increase the cost to operate the vehicle.
In view of the foregoing, it is therefore an object of the invention to provide storage units for vehicles having storage components, such as drawers, or the like, that are readily adjustable, reconfigurable and/or customizable by the user.
It is a further object to provide an adjustable storage unit wherein the means for adjusting or reconfiguring the shelving or drawers is easily accessible to the user.
It is still a further object to provide a storage unit that provides a reduced noise environment compared to conventional storage units.
It is yet another object to provide a storage system that is lighter in weight compared to conventional storage units.


A polymeric matrix for delivery of an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor such as a statin to tissue such as cardiac tissue in need thereof for the treatment or prevention of a disease or defect such as atrial fibrillation has been developed. In the preferred embodiment, a statin is delivered by means of a patch sutured to cardiac tissue at the time of cardiothoracic surgery. In the most preferred embodiment, the patch is a biodegradable material providing controlled or sustained release over a prolonged period of time, such as a week. Suitable materials include extracellular matrix, or other biodegradable hydrogels or polymeric materials providing sustained or controlled release of statin at the site of application.

An arrhythmia is a disorder with the speed or rhythm of the heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia. The cause is a disorder in the heart's electrical system. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a significant complication that occurs in about 30% of the patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The risk of AF increases with age. Patients over 30 years of age exhibit a 75% increase in AF for every decade of life. The molecular mechanism of acute AF following cardiac surgery is not well understood. Impaired hemodynamics, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative stress, and thrombosis have been implicated as important contributors to AF. In AF patients, turbulent blood flow impacts nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, producing vascular dysfunctions and activation of coagulation system which may contribute to the high rate of embolic events. Drugs that reduce vascular inflammation and improve vascular dysfunction and NO bioavailability may be efficacious for the prevention and treatment AF. One such class of drugs that exhibit these vascular and cardiac pleotropic effects are the HMG-COA inhibitors statins. It is widely documented that statins reduce vascular inflammation, oxidative stress and improve NO generation. Statins also modulate small GTPase including Rac1 by isoprenylation. Rac1 binds to p67phox and leads to activation of the NADPH oxidase system and subsequent generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Indeed, Rac1 activity is closely related to ROS production and ROS generated by NADPH oxidase in response to growth factors and inflammatory cytokines is mediated by Rac1. Importantly, statins inhibit Rac1-mediated NADPH oxidase activity and thereby reduce angiotensin II-induced ROS production and hypertrophy in smooth muscle and heart. Rac 1 has been shown to play role in the pathogenesis of AF. Transgenic mice overexpressing Rac1 exhibit conduction abnormalities and atrial fibrosis.
Observational and prospective studies have suggested beneficial effect of statin on AF (Liakopoulos O J et al. Euro. Heart J. 29; 1548-4559 (2008)) However, results of other prospective studies have been negative. For example, Collard, et al. (J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. 2006, 132:392) and Thielman, et al. (J. Thorac. Cardiovas. Surg. 2007; 134, 1143) failed to show decrease in all cause mortality in patients using statin before cardiac surgery.
There have been a limited number of trials on the effect of systemically administered statin on atrial fibrillation. The results are inconsistent and, in most cases, not statistically significant. For example, Negi, et al., J. Cardiovasc. Electrophysiol. April; 22(4):414-9 (2011) reported on a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, where patients with atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) were randomized to receive either atorvastatin 80 mg (n=33) or placebo (n=31) before CV. Treatment was continued for 12 months or until AF recurred. They concluded that high-dose atorvastatin did not reduce the recurrence of AF after CV. It reduced selective markers of inflammation without affecting systemic oxidative stress. Failure of atorvastatin to prevent AF recurrence may be due to its failure to affect oxidative stress. Another study has shown that atorvastatin but not simvastatin was effective in prevention of AF (Naji et al Int. Heart J. 50, 153-160 (2009)). The inconsistent effect of statins could also be due to inadequate and inconsistent concentration at the target site when administered orally. Further limitations to the efficacy may be due to variability of patient's response to liver metabolism when delivered orally. The high dose of statins also increase the risk of liver and muscle toxicities. Alves, et al. Arg. Bras Cardiol. 2010 Sep. 24. pii: S0066-782X2010005000129. [Epub ahead of print] reported on a study to evaluate whether the chronic and regular use of statins, for a period of six months, prevents atrial fibrillation after elective cardiac surgery. In the postoperative period, atrial fibrillation was present in 42 patients (39%) of the sample, including 11 (26%) people that had used statins on a regular basis in the preoperative period and 31 (74%) who had not. They concluded that the regular use of statin, for six months or more in the preoperative period, reduced the incidence of atrial fibrillation after elective cardiac surgery. In a third report, Kinoshita, et al., Circ. J. 74(9):1846-51 (2010). Epub 2010 Jul. 6, reported on a study to assess the preventive effect of preoperative statin treatment on atrial fibrillation (AF) after elective isolated off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (off-pump CABG) in propensity score-matched Japanese patients. 584 patients were retrospectively reviewed from among 770 consecutive patients undergoing isolated CABG by the same surgeon (99.2% with off-pump technique without conversion to cardiopulmonary bypass) between 2002 and 2009, after excluding emergency (n=150), chronic AF (n=30), and use of cardiopulmonary bypass (n=6). 364 patients received statin at least 5 days before operation and 220 patients received no statin. The concluded that preoperative statin significantly reduces the incidence of AF after elective isolated off-pump CABG in Japanese patients.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a means for treating or preventing atrial fibrillation.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Drug eluting patch for the treatment of localized tissue disease or defect


The present disclosure is described in the exemplary context of a Long Term Evolution (LTE) cellular network and is directed to a method and apparatus for estimating a gain and phase imbalance between an in-phase path and a quadrature path of a receiver operating in such a network. The method and apparatus specifically exploit channel coherence in time and frequency, and the properties of the Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), and/or the Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and/or information in the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), all of which are defined by the LTE standard, to estimate the gain and phase imbalance of the receiver while it remains connected to a base station to receive data.

A direct-conversion, IQ receiver typically uses two mixers and two filters to down-convert a received signal into an in-phase component and a quadrature component. A first mixer mixes the received signal and an in-phase local oscillator signal to produce a first down-converted signal. The first down-converted signal is then processed by a first low-pass filter to remove unwanted high-frequency portions, leaving the desired in-phase component. A second mixer mixes the received signal and a quadrature-phase local oscillator signal to produce a second down-converted signal. The second down-converted signal is then processed by a second low-pass filter to remove unwanted high-frequency portions, leaving the desired quadrature component.
Under ideal conditions, the first mixer and the first low pass filter (collectively referred to as the in-phase path) supply an equal amount of gain and a difference in phase of 90 degrees to the in-phase component as the second mixer and second low pass filter (collectively referred to as the quadrature path) does to the quadrature component. In actual practice, factors such as manufacturing process non-idealities, temperature, and supply voltage cause a gain and phase imbalance between these two paths. These imbalances in a multicarrier communication system result in inter-carrier interference in the frequency-domain between each subcarrier of the received signal and its image, which degrades the performance of the receiver.
Therefore, the gain and phase imbalance between the in-phase path and the quadrature path are typically calibrated, i.e., estimated and compensated for, before the receiver begins receiving data (e.g., at power up). However, further gain and phase imbalances between the in-phase path and the quadrature path can occur after the receiver begins to receive data due to intentional or unintentional changes in the receiver. The conventional approach to dealing with these further gain and phase imbalances is to reset the receiver and re-perform the estimation and compensation process. Although effective in calibrating the paths, such an approach reduces the potential throughput of the receiver.
The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawing in which an element first appears is typically indicated by the leftmost digit(s) in the corresponding reference number.

IQ imbalance estimation using broadcast signals


A composite and process for the production of a composite component, comprising a) a support of a thermoplastic composition, and b) at least one polyurethane layer in direct contact with the support.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a process for the production of composite components with a stable adhesive bond, these comprising a structure-imparting support of a thermoplastic and at least one polyurethane layer in direct contact with this support.
2. Description of Related Art
The present invention moreover relates to the use of specific polycarbonate compositions of high melt flowability and toughness in a 2-component injection moulding or 2-component reactive injection moulding process [2C-(R)IM] for the production of a two- or multicomponent part which is distinguished by good adhesive bonding of the PU coating(s) to the support material.
The present invention also provides composite components with a high toughness and stable adhesive bond, these comprising a structure-imparting support of a thermoplastic and at least one polyurethane layer in direct contact with this support, and the use thereof.
DE 196 50 854 C1 discloses a process for the production of a multilayered part of plastic in which an injection moulded part of plastic is coated with at least one layer of a 2-component thermoset, preferably polyurethane. In this process, the part of plastic and the layer of 2-component thermoset are injection moulded successively in a synchronous cycle in the same mould. No indications are given in DE 196 50 854 C1 of the influence of the nature of the support material and of the process parameters on the adhesion between the carrier material and the layer of the composite component joined to this.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,558,599 B1 describes a process for the production of a lacquered part from a formed thermoplastic material. The process comprises the steps
a) injection moulding of the thermoplastic material in a first cavity of a mould for forming the part,
b) opening of the mould for cooling at least the surface of the part, as a result of which shrinkage of the part occurs, and
c) injection of a lacquer into a second cavity of the mould with the part, the second cavity having the same dimensions as the first cavity.
Lacquers which are mentioned as possible in this application are also those based on polyurethane.
However, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,558,599 B1 neither is the support material specified in more detail, nor is an influence of the support material composition on the adhesion properties of the composite component indicated.
WO 2006/072366 A1 describes a process for forming and coating a substrate in a mould with at least two cavities. The process comprises the steps:
a) forming of a substrate in a first cavity of the mould,
b) introduction of the substrate produced in the preceding step into a second cavity of the mould and
c) coating of the substrate in the second cavity with a lacquer, the coating being carried out under increased pressure.
Polyurethane lacquers and PC+ABS substrates (polycarbonate+acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene substrates) are mentioned by way of example and are preferred. This application says nothing about the influence of the composition of the support and polyurethane material and of possible temperature influences during forming on the adhesive bond.
DE 10 2006 048 252 B3 discloses a process for the production of a composite component, in particular comprising an injection moulded part and a polyurethane element, with the steps
a) production of a support component,
b) introduction or transfer of the support component into an opened cavity of a mould,
c) closing of the mould to a predetermined position, an enlarged cavity with a first size being created,
d) generation of a reduced pressure in the enlarged cavity of the first size,
e) filling of the enlarged cavity with a flooding material and
f) carrying out an embossing step at the same time as the filling and/or after the filling with the flooding material, the cavity being at least slightly reduced in size.
A process as in the present invention in combination with specific compositions for the production of the composite components which have an increased adhesion is not disclosed in DE 10 2006 048 252 B3.
DE 10 2006 033 059 A1 discloses a process for the production of interior parts of plastic. In this, the support is formed in a first mould in a first step, the first mould then being replaced at least in part by a second mould, and the top layer then being formed on the support in a second step. In this process, a hard component, e.g. PA+ABS blends (polyamide+acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene) or PC+ABS blends (polycarbonate+acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), is employed as the support material, and a soft component, preferably polyurethane foam, is employed as the top layer. No indications of the influence of the process parameters and of the composition of the support and polyurethane materials on the bonding properties of the components produced in this way are given in the application. Rather, in DE 10 206 033 059 A1 improvement of the adhesion by primers or laser, corona or plasma treatment is proposed.

Process for the production of polyurethane composite components


An automated torch for generating and sustaining a flame is provided that includes a head, the head including a burning chamber, the burning chamber being open to the atmosphere and weather elements to expose the flame to the atmosphere and weather elements, a pole, a valve, a programmable computer module, the module configured to convert a low voltage to a high voltage, the module further configured to actuate a valve, the module still further configured to control the rotation of the valve to vary the amount of fuel introduced into the burning chamber to modify the aesthetics of the flame, a sleeve nut, the sleeve nut configured to be adjustable to control the amount of air introduced in the burning chamber to modify the aesthetics of the flame, at least one fuel supply tube, a diffuser assembly and an igniter. The igniter positioned within the burning chamber and the igniter including an anode and a cathode. The anode and the cathode are positioned such that the anode is proximate the cathode to create a sufficient gap such that when the high voltage is applied to said igniter a spark is induced across the gap. The anode and the cathode of the igniter are configured to detect the presence of a flame within the burning chamber. The igniter is configured to be electrically connected to the programmable computer module, the programmable computer module programmed to interpret a signal from the igniter to determine whether the high voltage should be induced across the gap to create the spark or a flame is present in the burning chamber.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to torches and, more particularly, to a torch capable of automated flame ignition.
2. Background Art
Torches, and, more particularly, what are known in the art as tiki torches have been used for thousands of years by inhabitants of the South Pacific Islands and other areas as a source of light. While tiki torches may still be relied upon for light by some, many use the tiki torches of today as decorative pieces that not only provide a source of light but also enhance the landscape of a home, building, hotel and the like.
Many different types of torches are in use today. There are inexpensive tiki torches that may be purchased at a local store and placed around the yard of a home to enhance the landscape or to light a path. Often these torches are manufactured of inexpensive materials such as wood and like materials and typically are not manufactured to withstand weather elements for an extended period of time. Generally the structure of these types of torches will last for a few years before replacement is needed. There are also tiki torches that are manufactured of other material such as steel and like metals that are designed to last longer than their less expensive wood counterparts.
Fuel for the torches may be petroleum based and often burn quite dirty thus depositing unsightly black soot on the outside of the heads of torches as well as sending harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Igniting the torches may be a chore as well. Typically, the torches must be hand lit with matches and the like, which may take a considerable amount of time if there are a number of tiki torches on the grounds such as at a hotel. Once lit, torches will tend to extinguish under a heavy wind or rain or when the fuel is exhausted and the chore of relighting the torches begins again.
Torches have been developed that are capable of self igniting once they have become extinguished. However, these torches require the use of computer systems that are generally quite large and cannot be wholly contained in the torch itself thus leading to an unsightly addition to the landscape. Many of today's torches continue to rely on petroleum based products as fuel which continue to create unsightly deposits on the heads of torches as well as spewing harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
Therefore, a need exists for an automated torch that is capable of re-igniting the flame when the flame is unexpectedly extinguished by wind, rain and the like. A need also exists for a completely self contained unit, apart from the fuel source, such that the torches remain aesthetically pleasing while being completely functional. A further need still exists for a torch that is capable of operating with fuels that burn very clean for appearance as well as environmental purposes.