A disclosed multifunctional input/output device has an e-mail client function for sending/receiving e-mails to/from a mail server. The multifunctional input/output device includes a storing unit configured to store a first e-mail acquired from the mail server; a printing unit configured to print the first e-mail stored by the storing unit onto a print medium and to add code information to the print medium, wherein the code information is obtained by encoding a source e-mail address of the first e-mail; a reading unit configured to read the code information printed onto the print medium by the printing unit; and an e-mail sending unit configured to send a second e-mail to the source e-mail address acquired from the code information read by the reading unit.

1. Technical Field
This disclosure relates to the field of multifunctional input/output devices.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, there are widely popular television programs/radio programs that announce the contents of messages/postcards which have been received beforehand from viewers/listeners. Due to the pervasiveness of the Internet in recent years, viewers and listeners are starting to send messages via websites on the Internet and e-mails instead of sending letters and postcards by mail. A viewer/listener can access a website of a television/radio program from his/her terminal connected via the Internet, to request music or post messages such as feedback and opinions on the program. Accordingly, more messages are being received, thus making television/radio programs more exciting.
The following is an outline of operations performed by television/radio stations to process such messages received from viewers/listeners via the Internet. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a flow from when a listener posts a message to the radio program until the message is announced. A listener 101 of a radio program listens to the radio program with a radio terminal 102 and finds out the e-mail address for sending messages. Then, the listener 101 sends a message from a mobile phone 103 or a personal computer 104. The message can be sent with an e-mail client or with a message form in the website of the program. The e-mail message is sent through the Internet and arrives at a mail server 105 to which the e-mail account of the program belongs. A staff member 106 of the program (assistant etc. of the program) uses a personal computer 107 installed with e-mail client software to acquire the e-mail message from the mail server, and prints out the e-mail message with a printer 108. The staff member 106 decides whether to announce the message and make additions/corrections according to need. Then, the printed message is handed to the host of the radio program as a manuscript. This is a typical workflow for receiving the contents of a message by e-mail, printing out the message on a paper medium, and delivering the message to the host.
Patent document 1 discloses a system for performing operations from receiving an e-mail message to printing out the message with the use of an image processing device installed with a general-purpose OS and an e-mail client. This system analyzes the header of the received e-mail, and automatically prints out the body of the e-mail that has been received by the mail server, from the starting time to the ending time of the broadcast program. Additionally, there is a function for preventing the image processing device from printing out an e-mail that has been determined as spam mail by the mail server and e-mail messages that have been repeatedly received from the same source address. Accordingly, the human user does not need to perform the task of discriminating such e-mails.
Patent Document 1: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Application No. 2004-356822
However, with the invention disclosed in patent document 1, in order to return a thank-you note by reply mail to the listener whose message has been announced in the program, the human user needs to recognize the name and the e-mail address of the viewer/listener from the paper printout, and input the return address in a separate personal computer. Additionally, as to spam control, when an e-mail includes inappropriate contents, and the television/radio station desires to prohibit any subsequent e-mail messages from the corresponding e-mail address, determinations made by the mail server may be inadequate for taking flexible measures. Specifically, in order to prevent unwanted junk mail, the human user needs to manually operate the image processing device to add such e-mail addresses to a junk mail list.


Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to making polyurethane foam less likely to become separated from an in-mold foamed molded product unit, the in-mold foamed molded product unit including an in-mold foamed molded product and an insert material which are integrally provided. A foamed composite molded product is configured such that a portion of an insert material is exposed to an outside of an in-mold foamed molded product, and is in contact with polyurethane foam.

Conventionally, a vehicle seat has typically been produced by providing a seat body made of polyurethane foam in an integrated manner with a metal wire embedded therein. The metal wire serves as an insert material for stabilizing the shape of the vehicle seat. Recently, in view of achieving vehicle weight reduction, cost reduction, and the like, there has been proposed a configuration in which polyurethane foam is combined with an in-mold foamed molded product unit, which is molded from thermoplastic resin. The in-mold foamed molded product unit is obtained by insert molding in which an insert material (for example, a metal wire) is provided in an in-mold foamed molded product, made of thermoplastic resin expanded particles. The in-mold foamed molded product unit is used as a core material of the vehicle seat. The vehicle seat is obtained by providing the in-mold foamed molded product unit integrally with the polyurethane foam and then covering the in-mold foamed molded product unit and the polyurethane foam with a seat cover.
However, in a case where the in-mold foamed molded product unit and the polyurethane foam are molded integrally, there is the possibility that the in-mold foamed molded product and the polyurethane foam will not adhere to each other and will therefore easily separate. As such, there is a risk of a reduction in passenger comfort occurring due to separation of the in-mold foamed molded product and the polyurethane foam.
Examples of techniques that have been previously disclosed include the inventions in Patent Literatures 1 to 3. In Patent Literature 1, a surface of a molded product (in-mold foamed molded product) made of thermoplastic resin includes a contact region at which the molded product comes into contact with a different-material layer (polyurethane foam). The contact region is heated to a temperature which is not less than 80% of a softening temperature of the molded product. This heating causes expandable resin particles in the region of contact to soften and expand so as to form unevenness in the region of contact. The different-material layer is provided so as to enter depressions in the unevenness.
Patent Literature 2 discloses carrying out an adhesiveness-providing treatment, such as a corona discharge treatment or coating with an anchor coat agent, between padding (polyurethane foam) and a foamed molded product (in-mold foamed molded product) made of olefin resin. This increases the adhesion strength between the surface of the foamed molded product and the surface of the padding.
Patent Literature 3 discloses a configuration in which an opening is provided to a base material layer (in-mold foamed molded product) made of olefin resin. Polyurethane foam enters into the opening in the base material layer. This causes the base material layer and the polyurethane foam to be in close contact over a large area and in a complex manner. As such, the base material layer and the polyurethane foam are unified in a laminar manner with a high bonding strength.
Patent Literature 4 discloses a configuration in which an outer envelope foam (polyurethane foam) is adhered to a reinforcement foam (in-mold foamed molded product) along the entire surface of the reinforcement foam.
In this way, the in-mold foamed molded products of Patent Literatures 1 to 3, adhesion to the polyurethane foam has been improved.

Foamed composite molding and method for manufacturing foamed composite molding


A joint for a fluid pumping apparatus includes a body having a passage defined in the body and extending through the body. A through hole is longitudinally defined in the body and extends through the body. A container is mounted to a lower end of the body, and the passage and the through hole communicate with the interior of the container. A connecting seat in mounted to an upper end of the body and has hollow connector communicating with the through hole in the body. A hose has a first end connected to the hollow connector and a second extending into a pail containing fluid. Consequently, the fluid in the pail can be sucked into the container when a compressed air flows through the passage in the body.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a joint, and more particularly to a joint for a fluid pumping apparatus.
2. Description of Related Art
A conventional oil-pumping device usually has a complicated structure and a great volume. It is an inconvenient design. Further, the container of the conventional oil-pumping device for receiving the pumped oil uniquely corresponds to the oil-pumping device. Consequently, the user often needs to clean the container after the being used for next use when sucking the fluid that is different from the previous operation.
The present invention has arisen to mitigate and/or obviate the disadvantages of the conventional oil-pumping device.


An electromagnetic interference preventing component (18) includes a high-permeability magnetic film in high-frequency in which a real number component μ′ of complex relative permeability at a transmission band frequency of an electronic device (10) incorporating the electromagnetic interference preventing component (18) is 10 or more, tan δ (=μ″/μ′) is 0.1 or less, and a ferromagnetic resonance frequency (fr) is 1.5 times or more of the transmission band frequency. The electromagnetic interference preventing component (18) having the high-permeability magnetic film in high-frequency is disposed in the electronic device (10) having an electromagnetic wave transmitting function, as to selectively decrease the electromagnetic field intensity in directions in which the electromagnetic waves radiated by an electromagnetic wave transmitting part such as an antenna (16) are not required.

In recent years, a portable communication device has made outstanding development, and particularly cellular phones are under rapid reduction in size, weight and thickness. Accordingly, an antenna positioned in the cellular phones and the like has come closer to a human head and other electronic devices susceptible to noise. Therefore, an interaction of the antenna with the human head or other electronic devices has become a subject of discussion.
Radio waves radiated from the antenna of the cellular phone are partially absorbed by the closest human head and the remaining radio waves are radiated to the air. Absorption of electromagnetic energy by the human head might cause a problem that the radiation efficiency and communication characteristics of the antenna are deteriorated. When the cellular phone is used, the antenna is close to the head, which is locally exposed to a strong electromagnetic field, so that adverse effects on a human body due to an increase in amount of power partial-body absorption are worried about. Therefore, guidelines (an amount of power partially absorbed per unit mass: SAR (Specific Absorption Rate)) for an electromagnetic energy partial-body absorption directed to the cellular phone have been set up in the U.S., Europe and Japan, consecutively.
Under the circumstances described above, the portable communication device represented by the cellular phone is desired to reduce the amount of electromagnetic energy absorbed by the human body (e.g., an exposure amount of the human head to electromagnetic energy). The exposure to the electromagnetic energy can be reduced by sufficiently increasing the distance between the antenna and the human body, but it is not a realistic solution to solve the problem because the cellular phone cannot be used if it is separated from the ear by a sufficient distance.
As a technology to decrease the level of an electromagnetic field generated around the antenna, it is known to dispose as an electromagnetic wave absorber a composite magnetic material containing soft magnetic powder and an organic binder or an inorganic binder at the antenna base or the like of the cellular phone (see, for example, Patent References 1 and 2). Here, the electromagnetic waves are consumed as heat loss by utilizing the fact that an imaginary component μ″ of a complex relative permeability μ of the composite magnetic material rises steeply near the transmit frequency of the antenna.
Patent Reference 3 describes a granular magnetic film, which has ferromagnetic fine grains and a grain boundary substance formed of a metal oxide, a metal nitride or the like and arranged around them, as an electromagnetic wave absorption film which has the imaginary component μ″ of the complex relative permeability μ in a gigahertz range enhanced. Patent Reference 4 describes an electromagnetic wave absorber that the real number component μ′ and the imaginary component μ″ of the complex relative permeability μ in a high-frequency region of 1 to 3 GHz meet the relationship of μ′>μ″.
Among the above electromagnetic field level reducing technologies, the technology which consumes the electromagnetic waves as a heat loss based on the imaginary component μ″ of the complex relative permeability μ of the magnetic material has a disadvantage that the strength of a transmission signal itself lowers because of the reduction to the electromagnetic field level near the antenna. Patent Reference 1 describes that as a SAR suppressor application condition that the imaginary component μ″ value of the complex relative permeability μ of the electromagnetic wave absorber is increased and a tan δ (=μ″/μ′) value is also increased.
For a conventional electromagnetic wave absorber that the imaginary component μ″ of the complex relative permeability μ is larger than the real number component μ′, a loss due to energy absorption cannot be disregarded. Therefore, it is necessary to find optimum values of an electromagnetic wave absorber adhering position, area and the like by experiments so that an energy loss can be minimized, namely an output drop of the electromagnetic waves radiated from the antenna is minimized. Therefore, a plan for improving the SAR suppression effect is merely described, and useful SAR measures have not been provided.
The electromagnetic wave absorber described in Patent Reference 4 suppresses a loss of electromagnetic waves by determining that the μ″ having functions to absorb and attenuate the electromagnetic waves is decreased to be smaller than the μ′ which does not contribute to the loss but relates to a magnitude of the complex relative permeability μ. But, since a noise frequency is generally higher than the signal frequency, it is necessary to increase a resonant frequency sufficiently. And, fine particles have the shape anisotropy dispersed, and their aggregate, namely an electromagnetic wave absorber, becomes easy to allow the passage of a magnetic flux in a vertical direction. Therefore, there is a possibility that the magnetic flux is directly leaked through the component inserted between the human body and the antenna from the antenna to the human body via the interference preventing component.
[Patent Reference 1] JP-A 2002-158484 (KOKAI)
[Patent Reference 2] JP-A 2002-158488 (KOKAI)
[Patent Reference 3] JP-A 2002-158486 (KOKAI)
[Patent Reference 4] JP-A 2004-128001 (KOKAI)

Electromagnetic interference preventing component and electronic device using the same


A breathing assisting device. The device includes a face mask and an oxygen dispenser which alternately injects oxygen (i) into the mask during an inhalation phase, and (ii) into a conveying piece which in turn conveys the oxygen through the mask during an exhalation phase in a manner which produces a subatmospheric pressure, or suction, within the mask during the exhalation phase, thereby assisting the user with both inhalation and exhalation.

1. The Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to portable resuscitation devices. More particularly, it concerns a portable device capable of both injecting air into, and withdrawing air from, a patient's mouth.
2. The Background Art
It is common practice to provide oxygen to an non-breathing person as part of a cardiopulmonary resuscitation process. In order to resuscitate a non-breathing person, it is known to try to force oxygen into the person's lungs as soon as possible. Prior art apparatus for accomplishing such a purpose involve large oxygen tanks and related machinery which are bulky and cumbersome and must often be transported by ambulance to the non-breathing patient.
Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is often the only option available for treating a non-breathing person. A Bystander performs CPR, including mouth-to-mouth breathing which usually only provides 10% to 20% oxygen content to the lungs, is often insufficient for the purposes of resuscitation and prevention of brain damage. The problem in compounded by the fact that a majority of CPR administrations are preformed improperly. One recent study was published to reveal that only 46% of the Bystander CPR cases included in the study were performed effectively; further, only 4.6% of those receiving effective CPR survived, while only 1.4% of those receiving ineffective CPR survived. Gallagher, et al., "Effectiveness of Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Survival Following Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest," Journal of the American Medical Association, Vol. 274, No. 24, 1922-25 (Dec. 27, 1995).
Attempts have been made in the prior art to provide alternatives to Bystander CPR, in the design of portable resuscitation devices. U.S. Pat. No. 3,613,677 (granted Oct. 19, 1971 to Blasko) discloses a portable resuscitator carried in a box with a handle. This device is characterized by several disadvantages, including the need for a bellows device to mix oxygen from a storage bottle with ambient air. The device is designed such that only a limited amount of oxygen can be carried, and the oxygen is therefore supplemented by ambient air which reduces the effectiveness of the device.
There are several other portable resuscitation devices known in the prior art, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,197,842 (granted Apr. 15, 1980 to Anderson). This patent reference discloses a portable resuscitation device which requires complex electronic control circuitry to provide selectivity between blower operation for I.P.P.B. breathing or alternatively emergency oxygen breathing, as well as other options. This device is expensive to manufacture and complex in operation.
It is noteworthy that none of the prior art known to applicant provides a resuscitation device capable of evacuating air from a patients mouth during the exhalation phase of the resuscitation. There is a long felt need, illustrated by the sobering statistics of low survival rates resulting from Bystander CPR as well as the disadvantageous resuscitation devices currently known, for a portable device which is inexpensive to make, simple in operation and which completes the resuscitation cycle by not only providing oxygen during inhalation but also evacuating air from the patient's mouth during the exhalation phase.


A straw attaching apparatus for attaching straws to beverage-filled sheet bags, the apparatus comprising a transportation means for transporting the beverage-filled sheet bags, a supply means for supplying a straw stripe to the beverage-filled sheet bags, and a pressing means for respectively pressing a straw to a beverage-filled sheet bag, and a corresponding method. A second supply means is provided for supplying a second straw stripe, with a control unit matching the speeds and operational sequences of the transportation means of the first and second supply means such that the first supply means attaches straws to the first, third, fifth . . . sheet bag supplied, and the second supply means attaches straws to the second, fourth, sixth . . . sheet bag supplied.

When in an automatic beverage filling system a straw is to be attached to the filled sheet bags at the end of the process, the straw being usable for withdrawing the beverage, a straw attaching apparatus is used for such a purpose. To this end, a generic apparatus comprises a transportation means with the help of which the beverage-filled sheet bags are transported to the straw attaching point. The straws are fed in the form of a continuous stripe to the beverage-filled bags. The straws of such a stripe are normally oriented in a direction perpendicular to the direction of transportation and are connected to a tape. Before the straw is attached to the beverage-filled sheet bags, the tape is severed or detached. A pressing means presses the isolated straws to the beverage-filled sheet bags. The straw is e.g. held by an adhesive on the beverage-filled bag, the adhesive having been applied to the bag beforehand. The individual straws may be enclosed in protective covers.
In the known apparatuses, the output is limited by the maximum speed at which the individual mechanical components can be operated without any deteriorating effect on reliability. Attention must here be paid to the fact that the positioning accuracy decreases at an increasing speed. In case of failure of a straw attaching apparatus, e.g. in the case of a crack in the straw stripe, the whole system must be stopped, or there will be faulty products.

Indag Gesellschaft fur Industriebedarf m.b.H.


A plurality of chairs are configured to be ganged together such that the chairs are releasably held together in a side-by-side manner. The chairs include a first chair having a first leg at a side of the first chair, and a second chair having a second leg at a side of the second chair. The first and second legs are generally opposed when the first and second chairs are side-by-side and facing in generally the same direction. The first chair includes a lower ganging element attached at a lower end of the first leg and configured to receive a lower end of the second leg when the second chair is positioned next to the first chair. The first chair includes an upper ganging element attached along a portion of the first leg and configured to receive a corresponding portion of the second leg.

It is known in the art to provide a ganging element or elements to gang or interlock or substantially retain two or more chairs together in a row. Such ganging elements often include a pin or tab on one chair that inserts into a corresponding slot or bracket on another chair to retain the chairs together. While such an arrangement may hold the chairs together, it is often difficult to assemble or gang the chairs together and to disassemble or separate the chairs when desired. Also, the process of joining and separating of the chairs often causes damage to the pin or the slot.
Therefore, there is a need in the art for gangable chairs, such as gangable folding chairs, that overcome the shortcomings of the prior art.


An electrical link (290) configured to link a DC high-voltage power source (270) to a user apparatus (250), and includes an electrical conductor (240) surrounded by an insulating cover and an electrical protection device (200) including: a conductive sleeve (280) arranged around the insulating cover, a biasing module (245) configured to voltage-bias the conductive sleeve (280), a circuit breaker (210) arranged on the conductor (240) and configured to cut off a current transiting through the conductor (240), and a detection module (220) connected to the conductive sleeve (280) and configured to detect a current leak out of the conductor (240) and to command the circuit breaker (210) on the basis of the detection. The invention also relates to a method for the secure supply of electric power.

An electrical installation on an aircraft conventionally comprises an electric power source linked to a user apparatus to provide power to the user apparatus. The electrical installation includes an electrical link formed of an electrical conductor covered with an insulating cover. The electrical link further comprises a circuit breaker device for monitoring parameters of the electrical signal transiting through the link between the power source and the user apparatus and interrupting an overload current or a short-circuit current in the conductor.
Electric power consumed on aircraft has been increasing due to increasing power demands of electrically powered user devices. This trend inevitably leads to an increase in the voltage levels of the electric power supply systems on aircraft, which were traditionally 115 volts AC (AC for alternating current) and 28 volts DC (DC for direct current).
Voltages of the order of +/−270 volts DC, +/−540 volts DC are nowadays contemplated. These high voltage values give rise to new problems on aircraft. For example, series or parallel electric arcs may occur when current leaks from the electrical link. A parallel arc between an electrical conductor supplying power to an apparatus and the conductive structure of an aircraft, or between two adjacent electrical conductors, could damage the user apparatus.
Prior art circuit breaker devices are not optimized for securing the transmission of power via the electrical links of installations using high voltages. Specifically, at high voltages, with prior art circuit breakers, it is mandatory to comply with large safety distances between a strand containing power supply cables and the airframe of the aircraft, or between a strand containing power supply cables and another strand containing cables for data transmission, in order to prevent a possible electric arc in the strand containing power supply cables from damaging the conductive structure of the aircraft, or the strand containing cables for data transmission, through a thermal effect. These safety obligations generate large spatial constraints in an aircraft.

Electrical link comprising an electrical protection device—voltage bias


A scoring system uses a grooved roller and a variety of resilient annular scoring tools. The scoring tools have scoring features or blades of different profiles, and further have annular bases uniform in width to enable their interchangeable installation into one or more tool-retaining grooves formed into the roller. The bases are much larger than the scoring features to provide increased strength and durability, along with more stable mounting of the scoring tool. In one version, a single roller assembly is formed by removably securing processing sleeves and spacing sleeves on a common support member.

The present invention relates to rotary systems and equipment for high-speed processing of paper and card stock, and more particularly to systems and equipment designed to score (crease) and perforate such stock.
For many years, rotary devices have been used to cut, score and perforate paper and card stock in recognition of the considerably higher throughput rates afforded by such devices. In essence, the stock is fed between a processing (e.g. scoring) disc or roller and a counter-directionally rotated back-up disc or roller. The arrangement is particularly well-suited to process a continuous web of paper or card stock. U.S. Pat. No. 1,091,204 (Ferres) illustrates an early approach.
More recently, rigid processing tools have been used in combination with resilient opposing or back-up members, for example, as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,318,206 (Kuehn et al.) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,045,045 (Davenport et al.). Similarly, it is known to fabricate a resilient processing tool, for example the resilient compression rings shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,977,310 (Keck). Each compression wheel, in the form of an O-ring, is seated in a groove formed into a rigid main body.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,572,519 (Harris) shows a creasing device in which creasing rings, more particularly rubber O-rings, are removably received in grooves formed into a rigid cylindrical male roller. A rigid female roller is provided with grooves corresponding to the O-ring locations. Harris advises that the male roller can have grooves of different widths to accommodate O-rings of different widths, and further that the grooves in the male roller can be formed to different depths to provide for O-rings that project from the roller at different heights.
While suitable for particular applications, this approach has limited flexibility. For example, if the narrowest or shallowest of the grooves is positioned near a given end of the male roller, and the operator needed to re-position the narrowest or farthest-projecting O-ring near the opposite end or along a medial region, another roller with a different arrangement of grooves would be needed.
Other disadvantages arise from the nature of the O-rings, which when suitable for scoring have extremely small diameters, e.g. in the range of 0.025 to 0.035 inches (0.63-0.88 mm). This renders the O-rings subject to excessive force concentrations that can lead to tearing, cracking or other damage when the rings are stretched to install them onto a male roller. Also, since the tensile force necessary to positively secure the O-rings on the roller is large in comparison to the O-ring cross-sectional area, the ring is susceptible to cold flow and relaxation of the tension, which over time diminish the tension and provide a less secure mounting of the ring.
Accordingly, the present invention has several aspects directed to one or more of the following objects:                to provide a resilient annular scoring tool configured to accommodate higher tensile forces for a more secure mounting around a grooved roller, with more stability in terms of maintaining the desired position of the radially outward or working end of the scoring tool;        to provide a resilient annular scoring tool that is less susceptible to wear and fatigue from repeated elongations during installation onto and removal from rigid grooved rollers;        to provide a roller assembly adapted to accommodate differences in size, shape, degree of radial protection and axial location of scoring blades while using a single grooved roller; and        to provide a paper processing roller assembly that accommodates different combinations of, and different axial spacings between, scoring tools, perforating tools and other processing tools in a single roller arrangement.


A mechanism to allow switch manager software to determine bandwidth consumption and cooperate with a VM manager. Counter hardware measures network traffic between the various ports of the switch stack. The switch manager determines the MAC or IP addresses of devices connected to each port, which are provided to the VM manager to correlate VMs to ports. The switch manger collects statistics from the counter hardware to determine traffic flow levels between the various ports. A list of high traffic port pairs is provided to the VM manager. In conjunction with each port is a list of available ports, identified by at least one MAC or IP address associated with that port, having capacity to receive the traffic of the respective ports of each port pair and provided in order of least to most hops, to allow the VM manager to select a closer port to receive a migrated VM.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to network devices and computers executing virtual machines.
2. Description of the Related Art
A revolution is well underway in the data center, namely the conversion from single purpose servers to servers executing a series of virtual machines (VMs), each virtual machine then acting as the previous single purpose server. This virtual machine model allows much better use of the server hardware resources than the prior single use model. The virtual machines are managed using a virtual machine manager. The virtual machine manager can monitor the loading of each physical server and migrate virtual machines between physical servers to address overload conditions. While this may be very helpful when managing the physical server hardware, no consideration is made regarding the underlying physical network infrastructure. VMs are migrated only based on server hardware loading and not network constraints. As a result, it is not unusual to end up with excessive bandwidth consumption and traffic high latency within an L2/L3 router-switch stack, or router-switch virtual chassis cluster, due to high volume transit traffic between physical servers that are connected to different devices within the stack or cluster. As a result, the performance of the VMs may actually be degraded, as compared to the original configuration and definitely is suboptimal.


A seat for supporting the pelvis of the user in a correct physiological position substantially corresponding to the pelvic standing position. The seat has a dished gluteal position (16) which extends to the rear of the seat and a seat back (11) with a substantially convex upper portion (13) and a concave lower portion (12) with the distance between the junction (21) of the two and the lowest point (22) of the dished gluteal portion (16) substantially corresponding to the average dimension between the posterior superior spine of the ilia P and the ischial tuberosities (site bones) of an adult person.

There are many types of seats each with a different back rest profile. The majority of these seats are aimed at providing an S-shaped spine profile in order to provide particular support of the lower lumbar area. However these seats do not provide any support of the pelvic area and therefore allow incorrect positioning of the pelvis in relation to the spine and makes such chairs ineffective in providing true good posture.
It is known to have a seat design which attempts to support the pelvis but this is done by crude methods such as a projection extending from the lower part of the back rest that pushes upon the upper part of the pelvis to provide correct positioning of the pelvis. This is obviously extremely uncomfortable and because of the distancing of the back from the back rest does not provide support of the lower lumbar area. Another method is to have a flat bottom of the seat which tilts forwardly in order to obtain the correct position of the pelvis. However this does not allow for comfortable sitting and urges the back away from the back seat.
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a seat which provides support to the pelvis while also allowing support of the lower back.


Embodiments predict early stage NSCLC recurrence, and include an image acquisition circuit configured to access an image of a region of tissue demonstrating early-stage NSCLC including a plurality of cellular nuclei; a nuclei detecting and segmentation circuit configured to detect a member of the plurality; and classify the member as a tumor infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) nucleus or non-TIL nucleus; a spatial TIL feature circuit configured to extract spatial TIL features from the plurality, the spatial TIL features including a first subset of features based on the spatial arrangement of TIL nuclei, and a second subset of features based on the spatial relationship between TIL nuclei and non-TIL nuclei; and an NSCLC recurrence classification circuit configured to compute a probability that region will experience recurrence based on the spatial TIL features; and generate a classification of the region as likely or unlikely to experience recurrence based on the probability.

Early-stage (e.g., stages I and II) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 80% of lung cancer. Early-stage NSCLC is typically treated with complete surgical excision. However, even after resecting the entire tumor mass, 30% to 55% of patients develop post-surgery recurrence within five years of surgery.
NSCLC histopathology is characterized by the interplay of tumor cells, immune cells (e.g., lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, or granulocytes), fibroblasts, and pericytes/endothelial cells. The interaction of tumor cells with immune cells is associated with the likelihood of disease progression. Patient survival and treatment response, including chemotherapeutic response, is also associated with the density of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in diverse solid tumor types.
However, existing approaches to estimating TIL density using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained slides suffer from inter-reader variability. For example, inter-pathologist agreement is merely moderate (Kappa=0.59) in quantifying TILs on tissue slides, and guidelines for standardizing TIL grading are not widely adopted or implemented in lung cancer treatment. Thus, the use of TIL density as a prognostic marker for NSCLC has limited utility in clinical situations. Furthermore, existing approaches that quantify the extent of TILs on routine H&E pathology slide images focus on either counting individual TILs, or estimating TIL grade, which further limits the utility of such approaches.

Predicting recurrence in early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using spatial arrangement of clusters of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and cancer nuclei


Contrast from dual energy CT images is removed without affecting other aspects of the image, including objects surrounded by contrast. Dual energy images are acquired during a study of a subject. First, a binary mask image (“Contrast localizer”) is produced to localize the contrast-enhanced areas and build sets of images with contrast-enhanced areas only (“Contrast images”) and complement images with contrast-enhanced areas removed (“Contrast complement images”) for both low and high x-ray beam energy image sets. Only the contrast images are used for dual energy contrast subtraction. Second binary mask image (“Subject localizer”) is produced to localize the objects under study. This mask image is used to reconstruct both low and high energy image sets with contrast selectively removed and subject present.

The present invention relates to computed tomography (CT) imaging apparatus; and more particularly, contrast-enhanced images acquired at more than one x-ray energy level.
In a current computed tomography system, an x-ray source projects a fan-shaped beam which is collimated to lie within an X-Y plane of a Cartesian coordinate system, termed the "imaging plane." The x-ray beam passes through the object being imaged, such as a medical patient, and impinges upon an array of radiation detectors. The intensity of the transmitted radiation is dependent upon the attenuation of the x-ray beam by the object and each detector produces a separate electrical signal that is a measurement of the beam attenuation. The attenuation measurements from all the detectors are acquired separately to produce the transmission profile.
The source and detector array in a conventional CT system are rotated on a gantry within the imaging plane and around the object so that the angle at which the x-ray beam intersects the object constantly changes. A group of x-ray attenuation measurements from the detector array at a given angle is referred to as a "view" and a "scan" of the object comprises a set of views made at different angular orientations during one revolution of the x-ray source and detector. In a 2D scan, data is processed to construct an image that corresponds to a two dimensional slice taken through the object. The prevailing method for reconstructing an image from 2D data is referred to in the art as the filtered backprojection technique. This process converts the attenuation measurements from a scan into integers called "CT numbers" or "Hounsfield units", which are used to control the brightness of a corresponding pixel on a display.
Dual source CT systems have two separate x-ray sources and associated detector arrays, which rotate together in the gantry during a scan. The x-ray sources may be operated at different energy levels to acquire two image data sets from which a low energy and a high energy image may be reconstructed.
Proper calibration of image pixel values versus x-ray beam energy can be used for qualitative and quantitative material composition evaluation of a scanned object. The ratio of CT numbers at high and low energies can be calculated for a given material and later be used to selectively remove this material from the image. The ratio is calculated using mean pixel value over the area of the material being removed. For this reason, the subtraction of a material leaves residual pixels with comparatively low values. Such a procedure is called "dual energy image subtraction" and the result of using a conventional method is shown in FIG. 3. In this conventional method pixel values of two corresponding images acquired at different x-ray beam energies are subtracted from each other using a ratio calculated for one particular material. Thus, the particular material, or tissue type, is removed from the subtracted images, but the resulting image has poor quality and severely degraded intensity levels over the entire image. In addition, the brightness in the final subtraction images is no longer measured in Hounsfield units.

Object identification in dual energy contrast-enhanced CT images

MAYO FOUNDATION FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH


A motor-driven outdoor vacuum has a ground level intake and a hose intake. When a hand-operable actuator moves a first or main door into a ground pick-up position, the ground level intake, which is carried by the first door is in direct air-flow communication with the impeller and the hose intake, which is carried by the first door is closed by a spring-actuated second door carried by the main door. When the actuator is moved to a hose intake position, the main door is moved to a second position in which the hose is in air-flow communication with the impeller and the ground level intake is closed.

Some existing commercial dual mode outdoor vacuums require a mounting plate to assemble a hose connection to the impeller inlet and to block the ground level intake when it is desired to convert the machine to the hose intake mode. This design is inconvenient, first because the mounting plate must be located and then assembled to the housing for the conversion, which is time consuming and inconvenient. Second, many times, the desired use of the hose takes only a few minutes, after which the vacuum must be re-converted to the ground pick-up mode.
The present invention converts the vacuum between the ground pick-up mode and the hose intake mode without having to locate additional parts, or remove parts from the vacuum, assembly or any additional parts to the vacuum. Moreover, the present invention permits the conversion and re-conversion to be accomplished simply, quickly and reliably with one activation lever, and without having to shut off the suction motor. Still further, the present invention provides a conversion mechanism which is simple and economical to manufacture, yet durable and reliable, while being readily accessible to, and easily and reliably operable by the operator in a single, simple and safe conversion procedure.
The present invention includes a main door or flap pivotally mounted within the deck of the vacuum and rotatable between a ground pick-up position and a hose intake position by means of a simple lever or other manual actuating device. A hose connector is mounted directly to the main door Oct. 3, 2003 on with a hose inlet aperture in the main door.
When the main door is in the ground pick-up position, the ground level intake is in direct air-flow communication with the impeller (i.e. suction or "vacuum" device), and the hose intake is closed by a second door pivotally mounted to the main door. The second door is spring-biased to close the hose inlet aperture in the main door when the main door is in the ground pick-up position.
When the actuator is moved to the hose intake position, the hose is in direct air-flow communication with the impeller, and the ground level intake is cut off from the suction source by the main door with the same conversion lever without any need to move additional actuators or assemble or detach parts. In the hose intake position, the second door is opened by an actuator located adjacent an intermediate opening located between the impeller and the ground level intake.
The hose connection between the deck and the flexible hose is mounted to and carried by the main door so that the hose connector is moved with the main door between the two operating positions, thereby simplifying and maintaining the seal between the hose connector and the suction source (i.e. impeller) when the machine is placed in the hose intake position.
The present invention thus provides a simple, economical, and yet reliable mechanism for converting a vacuum machine between the two desired modes of operation with a single actuator for placing the vacuum in both modes of operation and eliminating separate parts and mounting procedures.
Other features and advantages will be apparent to persons skilled in the art from the following description and drawings wherein like numerals will refer to the same element in the various views.


The present invention relates to an inkjet print head device for continuous inkjet printing, comprising a transducer; a charge electrode; a deflection plate; a gutter; and a holster; provided that the holster is receiving at least the aforementioned components, wherein the holster comprises an opening for a dedicated outlet for the ink in a printing mode, and wherein the holster further comprises an ink leakage detection area. Further the invention relates to a method and a system for detecting ink leakage in a print head.

In continuous ink jet printing dots with a size of about 70 μm of size will be travelling at a high speed from an orifice to a gutter in standby printing mode. A gutter is a kind of a return pipeline, for collecting the ink exiting in standby mode.
Upon printing the dots passing are deflected via charge electrodes and a high voltage deflection plate to form a printing pattern based on object's movement speed. The ink dots misaligned from entering the gutter or deflected far away from the holster's exit path will build up as waste and accumulating in a holster cover and finally drip on the product and/or conveyor causing unfavorable stains.
All this will be undetected until physical notice by a human or a vision inspection system.
Some ink leakage detection systems are known in the prior art, which refer to leakage detection in the ink supply system (U.S. Pat. No. 8,864,275B2, U.S. Pat. No. 6,402,277B1, EP 1 812 239B1). Further to that ink leakage detection is known from U.S. Pat. No. 6,431,678B2, where ink leakage is detected on the print head substrate.
Further to that, in printing with security inks, there is a threat of stealing the security ink by unauthorized users by siphoning via tweaking the print head. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a printing head that includes a mechanism that detects when a) ink has escaped its confined space and b) abnormal security situation has occurred.

Inkjet print head device and a method and system for detecting ink leakage


A holder for sample-holding plates has a retainer for pressing a plate placed in the holder both against the back wall and against a side wall. Thus a plate of a certain type will always settle in the same position in the holder. It is also possible to use in the holder plates of many sizes, which can be kept in place during handling owing to the retainer. The device is suitable for use in particular in assay methods in which samples to be assayed are handled on plates having a plurality of wells, for example in optical analyzers or other apparatuses.

Samples handled in laboratories may be in many types of vessels, according to need. For example, the diameters of the vessels vary from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. In general, larger entities, i.e. plates, are formed of the vessels. The plates also come in many sizes and shapes. The most commonly used plate is the so-called microtiter plate having 8.times.12 wells.
For the rationalization of assays it would be preferable if as many different types of plates as possible could be used in one and the same apparatus. In general, plates according to only a certain standard can be used in present-day apparatuses, such as optical analysers.
In certain optical analysers the sample-holding plate is handled in a holder in which the plate can be shifted over fractions of a millimeter in one given direction (e.g. iEMS Reader/Dispenser, Labsystems Oy, Finland). Thus it is possible to take into account small deviations from the standard of the outer dimension of the plate in the direction concerned. These apparatuses have in one edge of the plate holder adjustable stop screws, a movable wall, or a spring pressing against the plate.


A tray holds a media device in a substantially facedown position. The tray may have a transparent bottom surface or a window, permitting content on the media device to be viewed from below, through the transparent surface or window. The tray may optionally be angled, at a fixed or adjustable angle, for optimal orientation during viewing. The tray may be secured to a wall, cabinet, table, or other surface or object, either in a fixed or adjustable position. The tray may include a lip around its edges, to ensure that the media device does not slide off during normal operation. Optionally, additional mechanisms can be provided to further secure the media device within the tray; these can include, for example, elastic strap(s), hook-and-loop fastener(s), adhesive fastener(s), magnet(s), tension clip(s), spring(s), a lid, and/or the like. The tray may also include cutouts to enable access to features of the media device.

Keeping a baby entertained during diaper changing time is a uniquely difficult challenge. Typically, the person changing the diaper needs two hands to perform the task properly, and does not have a free hand to restrain the baby or to make sure the baby does not fall off the changing table. Straps designed to restrain the baby may be cumbersome, uncomfortable, and difficult to use. Usually, the person changing the diaper simply needs the baby to be entertained so that the baby lies still for a few moments, making the diaper changing process quicker, safer, and easier for all.
One way to entertain a baby is to provide engaging, child-friendly audiovisual entertainment, as may be displayed on a smartphone, tablet, or other device. However, since the person changing the diaper does not typically have a free hand, it is necessary for such a media device to be held in some secure manner during the diaper changing process. Handing the device to the baby is a risky approach, since the baby may throw, damage, or attempt to eat the device.
Ideally, the device needs to be within view of the baby, while also being out of reach so that the baby cannot grab the device and potentially damage it. However, existing device holders, clips, and similar apparatuses are not well adapted to this unique situation. In general, such device holders provide ways to secure the device in a vehicle, on a desk, or in some other situation where the device is intended to be viewable and easy to reach. Such device holders are therefore not well-suited for entertaining a baby. In addition, many such device holders require some effort to secure the device to the holder, making it difficult for a person changing a diaper to quickly and effectively place the media device it an appropriate position for viewing by the baby. Further, such device holders are not designed to carefully consider the viewing angle of the phone relative to the process of inserting the device. Finally, many device holders require that the media device be fitted with a specialized case, magnet, or other apparatus.


A transmission characteristic compensation system enables to reduce the generation of transmission deterioration by estimating an initially selected control direction, and also to compensate in advance with a setting value estimation so as to suppress the generation of transmission deterioration in advance. The transmission characteristic compensation control system includes a variable compensator having a control circuit; and an optimal setting value calculation portion for calculating an optimal setting value for the control circuit, wherein the optimal setting value calculation portion estimates future transmission deterioration on a predetermined time-by-time basis to set into the control circuit the optimal setting value for compensating the estimated transmission deterioration performed by the variable compensator.

In recent years high-speed transmission has been achieved using an optical transmission system. A 10 Gbps optical transmission system has become in practical use. Currently 40 Gbps optical transmission system is under development. Meanwhile, as transmission speed increases, optical signal waveform becomes deteriorated caused by wavelength dispersion in an optical fiber, a polarized wave dispersion in both the optical fiber and an optical circuit, nonlinear effect, ASE (amplified spontaneous emission) noise produced in an optical amplifier, etc. This deterioration of optical signal waveform becomes a main factor to restrict transmission distance.
For this reason, when transmitting for more than hundreds of kilometers with the speed of 40 Gbps, compensation against waveform deterioration is strictly required. When compensating, however, a plurality of automatic compensation systems are required to cope with the above-mentioned various factors producing waveform deterioration.
Further, to control such compensation, it is required to minimize the deterioration of transmission quality caused by this control itself.
One method for controlling transmission characteristic using a plurality of compensators, there is disclosed a configuration in the official gazette of Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. Hei-9-326755, which is shown in FIG. 1. The system is configured with a receiver 100 and an automatic equalization controller 200. In receiver 100, an optical amplifier 101 is provided for optical-amplifying the signal with excited light produced by noise light generator 201 in automatic equalization controller 200.
The amplified optical reception signal is dispersively compensated in a variable dispersion compensation circuit 102 to convert into electric signal in opt-electric converter 103. An electric signal corresponding to the converted reception signal is amplified in an amplifier 104 to input to a clock extraction circuit 105 and a discrimination circuit 106. In discrimination circuit 106, electric signal level is discriminated at the timing of a clock signal regenerated in clock extraction circuit 105 according to the discrimination signal from an discrimination voltage generation circuit 107, to output to a reception code.
Meanwhile, in automatic equalization controller 200, an output error of discrimination circuit 106 is detected in an error detection circuit 202. Corresponding to the output from error detection circuit 202, noise light level in noise light generator 201 is controlled. Also, through a dispersion equalization controller 203 and a discrimination voltage controller 204, feedback control is performed respectively against variable dispersion compensation circuit 102 and discrimination voltage generation circuit 107.
In the conventional method shown in FIG. 1, on detecting an output error in error detection circuit 202, the feedback control is carried out by a variety of compensation circuits. Namely, in case of the configuration shown in FIG. 1, such compensation circuits include noise light generator 201, variable dispersion compensation circuit 102, discrimination voltage generation circuit 107.
As a variable wavelength dispersion compensation device constituting variable dispersion compensation circuit 102, there are employed a VIPA (virtually imaged phased array) device such as being disclosed by M. Shirasaki, et al., in "Dispersion compensation using the virtually imaged phased array" (APCC/OECC '99, pp. 1367–1370), and an FBG (fiber Bragg grating) such as being disclosed by M. M. Ohn, et al. in "Tunable fiber grating dispersion using a piezoelectric stack" (OFC '97, WJ3).
In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, a device such as VIPA (virtually imaged phased array) is applied as a variable wavelength-dispersion compensation device for dispersion compensation to vary dispersion values. In order to search a setting point to optimize a dispersion value, it is not possible to determine to which direction the search is carried out optimally (that is, the direction of the setting value to be varied either greater or smaller). For this reason, conventionally the control direction to the optimal setting point is determined by searching in any directions possible to search, thereby to monitor how many amount the transmission deterioration is produced.
In this method, if the selected moving direction is opposite to the direction of optimal setting, the transmission deterioration increases by the search. In addition, in the conventional method, a threshold value of the transmission deterioration is set so as to suspend to start until the deterioration exceeds the threshold value. Therefore, substantially large transmission deterioration is produced before the control is activated.
Also, in the conventional plurality of compensation methods against the control device, there is introduced a centralized control method in which each compensation circuit is managed with centralized control. In such a centralized control method, the control management becomes difficult as the number of compensation circuits increases. At the same time, it becomes difficult to increase the number of compensation circuits corresponding to the increase of communication speed or the expansion of communication distance. Therefore the method is short of expandability and flexibility.

Transmission characteristic compensation control system


A method for transmitting system information. The method may include: determining an information type of system information to be transmitted, wherein the information type is configured to indicate a network device that triggers the system information; transmitting the system information to User Equipment (UE) within the coverage of a base station by broadcasting when the system information is first system information, wherein the first system information is triggered by the base station; and transmitting the system information to the UE by unicasting or broadcasting, wherein the second system information is triggered by the UE.

In recent years, the mobile communication technology has developed rapidly in order to provide better communication services for UE (User Equipment). In a current communication system, to enable UE to communicate with a base station, the base station needs to transmit system information to the UE, and the system information includes multiple pieces of information for communicating between a UE and a base station, e.g., information for selecting a base station, information for accessing a base station and information for re-selecting a base station.
The base station may transmit the system information by broadcasting, such that all UE within the coverage of the base station may receive the system information from the base station. Further, the UE can communicate with the base station in accordance with the system information.

Method and device for transmitting system information and base station

Beijing Xiaomi Mobile Software Co., Ltd.


The invention relates to screening of patients to determine the possible presence of Kawasaki Disease. The screening involves assaying for levels of V.beta.2 or V.beta.8.1 by immunoassay, or for the mRNA expressing either of these V.beta. elements. The polymerase chain reaction is one way the mRNA level can be determined. Once the levels in the patient are determined, they are compared to normal levels. An increase is indicative of possible Kawasaki Disease.

In recent years, the mechanism by which mammalian immune systems, such as human and murine systems react to infections, foreign antigens, and to so-called "self antigens" in connection with autoimmune diseases has begun to be established. See, in this regard, Grey et al., Scientific American 261(5): 56-64 (1989); Male et al., Advanced Immunology (J. P. Lippincott Company, 1987), especially chapters 6 through 10.
Well known, both to the skilled artisan and to the general public is the role of antibodies, sometimes referred to as "immunoglobulin" or the less correct and older "gammaglobulin" in response to infection. Antibodies are protein molecules which are produced by B cells in response to infection. It is well known that these antibodies act to "disable" or to inactivate infectious agents in the course of combating the infection.
In order for antibodies to be produced, however, preceding events must occur which lead to stimulation of the B cells which produce the antibodies. One of the key events involved in the processes leading to antibody production is that of antigen recognition. This aspect of the immune response requires the participation of so-called "T-cells", and is less well known than the antibody response commented on supra.
Briefly, and in outline form, antigen recognition requires interaction of an "antigen presentation cell", a "processed antigen", and a T-cell. See Grey and Male, supra. The "processed antigen", in an infection, is a molecule characteristic of the pathogen which has been treated, i.e., "processed", by other cells which are a part of the immune system. The processed antigen interacts with a receptor on the surface of an antigen presentation cell in a manner not unlike a lock fitting into a key hole or, perhaps more aptly, two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.
The configuration of the complex of processed antigen and receptor on antigen presentation cell allows the participation of T-cells. T-cells do not join the complex unless and until the processed antigen has fit into the receptor on the antigen presentation cell. This receptor will hereafter be referred to by its scientific name, the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), or the human leukocyte antigen (HLA). Generally, MHC is used to refer to murine systems, and HLA to humans.
These receptors fall into two classes. MHC-II molecules are involved in most responses to pathogens. In contrast, MHC-I molecules are involved when the pathogen is a virus, or when a malignant cell is involved. When MHC-I participation is involved, there is no antibody stimulation; rather, the interaction of MHC-I, processed antigen and T-cell leads to lysis of cells infected with the pathogen.
The foregoing discussion has focused on the events involved in responding to "infection", i.e., the presence of pathogenic foreign material in the organism. Similar mechanisms are involved in autoimmune diseases as well. In these conditions, the organism treats its own molecules as foreign, or as "self-antigens". The same type of complexing occurs as described supra, with an antibody response being mounted against the organism itself. Among the diseases in which this is a factor are rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, systemic lupus erythromatosus, and others.
The ability of the T-cell to complex with the processed antigen and MHC/HLA complex is dependent on what is referred to as the T-cell antigen receptor, referred to as "TCR" hereafter. The TCR is recognized as a heterodimer, made up of alpha (.alpha.) and beta (.beta.) chains. Five variable elements, coded for by germline DNA and known as "V.alpha., J.alpha., V.beta., D.beta., and J.beta." as well as non-germline encoded amino acids contribute to the TCR. See, in this regard, Marrack, et al., Immunol. Today 9: 308-315 (1988); Toyonaga et al., Ann. Rev. Immunol. 5: 585-620 (1987); Davis, Ann. Rev. Immunol. 4: 529-591 (1985); Hendrick et al., Cell 30:1 41-152 (1982). With respect to the binding of TCR with processed antigen and MHC, see Babbitt et al., Nature 317: 359-361 (1985); Buus et al., Science 235: 1353-1358 (1987); Townsend et al., Cell 44: 959-968 (1986); Bjorkman et al., Nature 329: 506-512 (1987).
Generally, both the alpha and beta subunits are involved in recognition of the ligand formed by processed antigen and MHC/HLA molecule. This is not always the case, however, and it has been found that so-called "superantigens" stimulate T-cells with a particular V.beta. element, regardless of any other element. See Kappler et al., Cell 49: 273-280 (1987); Kappler et al., Cell 49: 263-271 (1987); MacDonald et al., Nature 332: 40-45 (1988); Pullen et al., Nature 335: 796-801 (1988); Kappler et al., Nature 332: 35-40 (1988); Abe et al., J. Immunol 140: 4132-4138 (1988); White et al., Cell 56: 27-35 (1989); Janeway et al., Immunol. Rev. 107: 61-88 (1989); Berkoff et al., J. Immunol. 139: 3189-3194 (1988), and Kappler et al., Science 244: 811-813 (1989).
The "superantigens" mentioned supra, while generally stimulating T-cells, are somewhat specific in terms of the particular form of the V.beta. moiety which is present on the stimulated T cell. This feature is one aspect of the invention, i.e., the ability to assay for particular subtypes or subclasses of T-cells, based upon the cell surface antigens presented by these subclasses.
It must be pointed out, however, that the expansion of the V.beta. element does not in and of itself mean that a superantigen is involved, and in the discussion which follows, the inventors do not limit themselves to the possibility that vasculitic disorders are caused by a superantigen mechanism.
Staphylococcus antigens discussed supra are not the only substances which provoke a restricted, V.beta. proliferative response. Indeed, it is the purpose of this invention to show that such a response occurs, and can be measured in other diseases and conditions, vasculitic disorders in particular, even where an etiological agent is not recognized. It is the purpose of this invention to provide a method for diagnosing a vasculitic disorder by assaying a T-cell containing sample from a patient for a particular V.beta. element, and comparing the value determined to "base line" or "normal" values. Deviation from normal is indicative of the particular vasculitic disease associated with variations in the level of the particular V.beta. element. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the method is used for diagnosis of Kawasaki disease, but other vasculitic disorders, such as Wegener's Granulomatosis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosis, Behcet's disease, Chung-Strauss Syndrome, Lymphomatoid Granulomatosis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, Polyarteritis Nodosa, Rheumatic Fever, and Thromboangiitis Obliterans may also be diagnosed in the manner described herein.
In a particularly preferred embodiment, the V.beta. element is assayed for by utilizing polymerase chain reaction ("PCR"), as described in, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,683,195; 4,800,159 and 4,683,202 the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference. Another preferred method involves assaying the V.beta. element by use of antibodies, monoclonal antibodies in particular.
The data which follow deal, for the most part with Kawasaki Disease, and to that end some discussion is necessary.
Sometimes referred to as monocutaneous lymph note syndrome, Kawasaki disease ("KD" hereafter) is an acute multi system vasculitis of unknown etiology. The disease primarily affects infants and young children. See Kawasaki, Jpn. J. Allergol 16: 178-222 (1967); Rauch et al., Pediatr. Infect. Dis. 4: 702-703 (1985). While KD does occur worldwide, it is most prevalent in Japan and in children of Japanese ancestry. Primary clinical manifestations include prolonged fever, bilateral non-exudative conjuctivitis, induration and erythema of extremities, inflammation of lips and oropharynx, polymorphous skin rash, and cervical lymphadenopathy.
In Japan and in the United States, KD has become one of the most common causes of acquired heart disease in children. Recent studies have shown that when gamma globulin is administered intravenously ("IVGG") during the acute phase of the disease, coronary artery lesions, which otherwise develop in 15-25% of patients, are significantly decreased. See Newburger et al., N. Engl. J. Med. 315: 341-6 (1986); Nagashima et al., J. Pediatr. 110: 710-2 (1987); Firisho et al., Lancet ii: 1055-57 (1984); Rowley et al., J. Pediatr. 113: 290-94 (1988); Newburger et al., N. Eng. J. Med. 324: 1633 39 (1991). Thus, in order to treat this disease effectively, as with all other vasculitic diseases, early recognition is essential.
KD is characterized by an acute stage, as well as a convalescent stage. These are described in some detail infra. The acute phase is characterized, inter alia, by marked immune activation. Investigators have demonstrated, for example, increased numbers of circulating and infiltrating T cells bearing the HLA-DR activation antigen and elevated serum soluble IL-2 receptor levels. The phenomena are indicative of T-cell activation. See Leung et al., J. Clin. Invest. 79: 468-472 (1987); Terai et al., Hum. Pathol. 21: 231-234 (1990); Lang et al., J. Pediatr. 116: 592-596 (1990). In addition, acute KD has been associated with increased production of IL-1.beta., TNF-.alpha., IL-6, IL-2, and IFN-.gamma.. See, e.g., Matsubara et al., Clin. Immunol. Immunopathol 56: 29-36 (1990); Maury et al., J. Lab. Clin. Med. 113: 651-54 (1989); Lang et al., J. pediatr. 115: 939-43 (1989); Leung et al., Lancet ii: 1928-1302 (1989); Rowley et al., Ped. Inf. Dis. J. 7: 663-67 (1988); Ueno et al., Clin. Exp. Immunol 76: 337-342 (I989); Jordan et al., in Kawasaki, ed., The Third International Kawasaki Disease Symposium 1989: 144-46. The cytokines referred to supra are believed to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of vascular cell injury during acute KD, due to their proinflammatory and prothombotic effect on endothelial cells. See Mantovani et al., Immunol. Today 10: 370-74 (1989). Vascular endothelia, in KD lesions, have been demonstrated to express cytokine inducible leukocyte adhesion molecules known to be involved in localization of inflammatory cells. See Leung, supra. Patients with acute KD have been found to have cytotoxic antibodies against IL-1.beta., TNF-.alpha. and IFN-.gamma. stimulated endothelial cells, but not unstimulated cells. See Leung et al., J. Clin. Invest. 77: 1428-35 (1986); Leung et al., J. Exp. Med. 164: 1958-72 (1986).
As indicated, the cause of acute KD and the large scale immune response are unknown. While epidemiologic studies directed toward identifying potential environmental toxins, and laboratory culturing of body fluids for known microbial agents have taken place, an etiological agent has not been found. See Rauch et al., Ped. Infect. Dis. J. 6: 1016-21 (1987). Due to the acute, self-limited nature of the disease, geographic clustering of outbreaks, clinical symptoms of fever and eruptions which mimic conditions and diseases such as measles, roseola, and scarlet fever, as well as the unique susceptibility of young children, it has been suggested that humoral immunity develops early in life. KD is rarely seen over the age of 8, suggesting that there is an asymptomatic infection caused by a ubiquitous agent, followed by development of protective immunity in the general population.
The general observations on KD, as well as other vasculitic conditions, suggest that these diseases may have some similarities with disorders characterized by response to a so-called "superantigen". The patent applications cited supra and incorporated by reference herein, show that various superantigens lead to expanded populations of V.beta. elements or TCRs ("T cell receptor molecules"). This evidence is also presented in, e.g., Choi et al., J. Exp. Med. 172: 981-84 (1990); Kappler et al., Science 24: 811-13 (1989); and Choi et al, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 86: 8941-45 (1989). The disclosures of these three references are all incorporated by reference herein. The superantigens, including bacterial toxins, provoke marked activation of T cells and monocytes/macrophages. For example, staphylococcal enterotoxins and streptococcal erythrogenic toxins induce IL-1 and TNF-.alpha. from monocytes. Staphyloccal enterotoxin and SPE-mediated stimulation of monocytes is a consequence of binding and transducing a positive signal through MHC-II molecules on monocyte cell surfaces. In the presence of antigen presenting cells, superantigens stimulate T-cell proliferation by selective stimulation of T cells expressing particular V.beta. elements. For example, Staphyloccocal TSST-1 stimulates T cells presenting V.beta.2. Choi et al., J. Exp. Med. 172: 981-4 (1990), have shown expansion of V.beta.2 cells in toxic shock syndrome. The similarities thus suggest at this time that vasculitic diseases especially KD, may involve the same phenomena as is involved in superantigen caused diseases and conditions, but, as noted supra, this is a theory rather than a known mechanism, as compared to the expansion of the V.beta. subtype, which is an empirical phenomenon. As noted supra, the inventors do not imply that vasculitic disorders are caused by superantigens.

Method for screening for Kawasaki disease

National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine


A single entity contains source lines, being operated on by one or more end users. Within the same entity are entity version and level control data. Individual source lines contain version-related identification variables. After each version or level update by a user, a comparison is made between new and old versions; source line identification variables are modified, and new source lines are added; dependent version information is stored in the entity, and control data is updated. Subsequent retrievals of a version are responsive to the dependent version information, and produce indications of any changes that had been made to dependent versions.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the field of software development tools. More particularly, it relates to a system for storing multiple versions of program source data in a single entity, permitting modification to the versions of different accessors.
2. Background Art
Bulk Data Storage Libraries typically serve as large repositories of related data such as source code for a software development project or book versions for a publications organization.
Typically, inherent in these applications is the requirement that multiple versions of source data be maintained and that the versioning technology supports an easily understood, intuitive, view of the data.
Current bulk data storage technologies enable the storage of and retrieval of versions of data via a number of methods:
Full Copy versioning is the most basic implementation of maintaining multiple versions of data. Maintaining multiple full copies of each version of a given source object requires a great deal of storage media (DASD) and is typically applicable only in small bulk data applications where DASD usage is not a problem. PA1 Delta versioning enables multiple changes to be made to a common base and also enables more efficient utilization of DASD. Delta versioning is usually implemented via the creation of multiple small files which represent only the changes (deltas) to a given base version. Delta versioning however, requires the use of unique merge processes in order to initially construct and subsequently reconstruct each given version from the potentially large number of multiple files which make up that version. In addition, the dependency relationships between the multiple files is typically maintained in a separate control file (which must be separately accessed each time a version of the data is to be stored or retrieved). Delta files also require some external mechanism to uniquely identify the line that is to be changed. There are basically two kinds of delta schemes: those in which the full source copy is the oldest version and the deltas represent newer versions; and those in which the full source copy is the newest version and the deltas represent older versions. The former type is sometimes called "forward" deltas whereas the latter are called "reverse" deltas. PA1 Some versioning schemes have been developed which attach line identifiers to each record in a file in order to uniquely identify each line which may be used in a merge operation. However, implementations of this methodology may require the creation and maintenance of multiple separate files (one for each version) in which merge control information is created and maintained. Or Versions Dependencies may not be recordable, or trackable. PA1 The ability to access, control, and modify multiple versions of source data concurrently. PA1 The ability to maintain a history of incremental changes to the source and to uniquely identify the historical order in which changes occur. PA1 The ability to detect, record, and provide notification of changes to a related version. PA1 The ability to maintain control data and source data, and application-defined data in a more intuitive, controlled, and efficient manner. PA1 The ability to minimize the use of external storage (DASD) in facilitating massive data storage requirements.
Todays information processing applications require greatly enhanced bulk data version control capability coupled with enhanced capability to effectively utilize that data.
Keys areas which must be accessed by these technologies include the following:

Version management system using pointers shared by a plurality of versions for indicating active lines of a version


An electronic camera includes a search unit for sequentially capturing and analyzing a monitor image for an object and for sequentially determining whether or not a figure of a specified form representing a print/picture image is included in the monitor image, and a memory for, responsive to determination that the figure is included in the monitor image, storing the monitor image including the figure as a candidate for the print/picture image.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to electronic cameras and more particularly to digital cameras that pick up and record an image of an object such as a print/picture and store it.
2. Description of the Related Art
In the past, electronic cameras are known that pick up and store an image of a print/picture including characters, figures and images. Such camera comprises a body attached through an arm to a stand on which an object whose image is to be picked up is placed such that the position at which the object image is picked up can be moved without moving the object and the camera body (see Japanese Patent Publication (KOKAI) H10-229515). In order to correct a deformed image of characters written on a calling card, a postcard, a catalog, a signboard or a bulletin boards and picked up by a digital camera, a method and apparatus is known that extracts and corrects a four-sided figure of the image so as to provide a non-deformed rectangular image (see Japanese Patent Publication (KOKAI) 2003-58877).
The camera disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication (KOKAI) H10-229515, however, requires a sliding member that moves the position at which the object image is picked up, thereby making the whole camera large-scale. The method and apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication (KOKAI) 2003-58877, which refers to correcting a deformed four-sided figure image extracted from the picked-up image so as to provide a non-deformed rectangular image, presupposes correction of the picked-up image. Thus, when the original rectangular image is not picked up in an optimal state, that is, when the picked-up image is too small or when the picked-up image lacks partly, a preferable character image cannot be obtained even by retouching. For example, when the image pickup state of a calling card is bad, the characters printed on the calling card would be unclear. Thus, the whole frame of the calling card can not be extracted as rectangular. Accordingly, when the image of the calling card is picked up, careful pickup operation is required, for example, by finely adjusting the direction of the lens while performing the zooming-in/-out operation, which would impose a large burden on the user.
When a user picks up an image of an object such as a calling card, a post card, a catalogue, a signboard or a bulletin board having characters printed or written thereon, he or she often will have a hard time accommodating the object image in an optimal state within the frame image. Although the image of such object should preferably be picked up in a large size such that the characters may be read clearly, it would be meaningless to pick up an image of such object which is missing a part thereof that protrudes outward beyond the frame image. In order to avoid such situation, the user will peep into the monitor display screen while adjusting the zoom power and the image pickup direction to the respective optimal ones and then operate the shutter. However, if an object has characters of different sizes printed or written thereon, it is very difficult and troublesome to adjust the zoom power and the image pickup direction such that all the character images may be picked up. That is, there is a big possibility of failure in the image pickup.

Image pickup camera and program for picking up-an optimal-state image of a print/picture


A method of processing client requests on a data processing apparatus. The method includes receiving control portions of client requests from respective clients. Each client request has control and payload portions, where the payload portion includes data and the control portion includes information relating to the data of the payload portion. The method also includes buffering, in non-transitory memory of the data processing apparatus, the received client request control portions, and retrieving the payload portion of a client request before processing that client request.

A server is generally dedicated to run one or more services requested by one or more clients (e.g., user). The server usually offers specific services such as a database server providing database service to the client, a file server providing a location for files shared among different clients, a mail server providing mail from one client to another, a print server connecting a client to a specific printer over a network, a web server allowing a client to view the content of a website, etc. Each server, regardless of the service it provides, usually includes a hardware portion and a software portion. The hardware portion allows the software portion to run a software program that performs the specific server service.
The server receives requests from clients and performs a specific task based on the client request. The server often receives an unpredictable pattern of requests at various priorities. These requests are sometimes queued for processing in a buffer, and a major problem in server design is managing an incoming queue of client requests. The server should try to maintain the size of the buffer to avoid running out of memory. In some instances, when the buffer receives a great number of requests from clients, the server rejects the requests or suspends the connection and stops reading any incoming client requests. Rejecting the requests consumes network and computer memory resources because the client resends the request.

Accessing payload portions of client requests from client memory storage hardware using remote direct memory access


An image forming device includes: a main casing; a retaining unit; a feed tray; and a pickup roller. The retaining unit retains a plurality of photosensitive drums juxtaposedly arrayed and spaced away from each other in an array direction. The retaining unit is movable in the array direction between a mounted position in which the retaining unit is mounted in the main casing and a pulled-out position in which the retaining unit is pulled out of the main casing. The feed tray is configured to accommodate a first transferred medium. The pickup roller is configured to pick up the first transferred medium accommodated in the feed tray. The pickup roller is arranged to overlap with the retaining unit in the array direction.

One electrophotographic type color printer conventionally well known in the art is an intermediate transfer type color printer. One such intermediate transfer type color printer includes a plurality of process cartridges each having the photosensitive drum for one of four colors, a drawer for retaining the plurality of process cartridges, an endless belt that is disposed below the plurality of process cartridges and contacts the photosensitive drum of each process cartridge, a secondary transfer roller that contacts a rear portion of the endless belt, a sheet supply tray that is disposed below the endless belt, and a discharge tray that is formed on the top of the printer.
In this color printer, each sheet of paper accommodated in the sheet supply tray is conveyed upward from the sheet supply tray so as to pass through a position between the endless belt and the secondary transfer roller. Then, the sheet is discharged to the discharge tray so as to be conveyed frontward. In other words, the sheet accommodated in the sheet supply tray passes through a generally C-shaped conveying path (so-called C-path) to be discharged to the discharge tray.
Further, this image forming device is capable of so-called "front access", replacing each process cartridge by pulling the drawer frontward and setting the sheet of paper in the sheet supply tray by pulling the sheet supply tray frontward.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Image forming device having feed tray and retaining unit retaining photosensitive drums


There is disclosed a stent delivery system includes a first cylindrical member capable of being inserted into a forceps channel of an endoscope and including a through hole having a central axis; a second cylindrical member inserted into the through hole of the first cylindrical member and capable of advancing/retreating with respect to the first cylindrical member, the second cylindrical member including a holding mechanism which holds a relative position of the second cylindrical member with respect to the forceps channel of the endoscope, and a stent which is attached between the first and second cylindrical members in a state where a diameter of the stent is reduced by the first cylindrical member and which expands when the first cylindrical member is removed.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a stent delivery system for use in indwelling a self-expansion type stent in a body cavity, and an indwelling method for a stent.
2. Description of the Related Art
There are known various techniques concerning a stent delivery system for indwelling a self-expansion type stent in a body cavity, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,302,893.
FIGS. 10 to 11B show a conventional type of delivery system 210 in which a self-expansion type stent 260 is indwelled in the body cavity as one example of the stent delivery system. An outer cylinder 220 which contacts an inner wall of a forceps channel 214 of an endoscope 280 is disposed in the delivery system 210 as shown in FIG. 10. An inner cylinder 224, inserted so as to be capable of advancing and retreating, is disposed in the outer cylinder 220.
As shown in FIG. 10, in the delivery system 210, a doctor α who operates the endoscope 280, and a doctor β who operates the delivery system 210 move the outer cylinder 220 in a pull-out direction (arrow I direction) with respect to the forceps channel 214 (see FIG. 11A). The doctor α holds the inner cylinder 224 and prevents to move the inner cylinder 224. Then, the stent 260 attached to a tip end of the inner cylinder 224 is indwelled in a target position 290 in a bile duct confirmed using X-ray chips 254a, 254b (see FIG. 11B).

Stent delivery system and indwelling method for stent


An image forming device includes output rollers disposed for ejecting media out of the image forming device, and a single solenoid activated bi-directional output drive mechanism connected to the output rollers for bi-directionally driving the output rollers and for enabling a return path back through the output rollers for duplexing of the media. In an alternate embodiment, the image forming device includes substantially all components necessary for duplexing, integrated with the base engine of the image forming device, but excludes the solenoid activated bi-directional output drive mechanism, for providing a non-duplexing system that is optionally and easily upgradeable to a duplexing system.

The art of duplexing, or printing on both sides of a sheet of paper (or other media), has long been reserved for higher end imaging devices, including inkjet printers, laser printers, photocopiers, etc. The complexities associated with duplex imaging are well known in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,453,841 describes a Duplex Printing system And Method Therefor wherein multiple copy sheets are transported simultaneously through a sheet path. A copy sheet inverter receives the copy sheets sequentially from the sheet path after the sheets are printed on their first sides and returns them to the sheet path in an inverted orientation prior to printing on the second sides.
A separate implementation for duplexing is noted in U.S. Pat. No. 4,066,252 wherein after a sheet is printed on a first side, it is transported to an output accumulation tray, but then withdrawn therefrom and re-introduced into the paper path while at the same time being inverted for imaging on the second side.
Duplexing systems such as that described in the '841 patent are generally more complex, costly and faster than systems such as that described in the '252 patent. As such, duplexing systems that incorporate the technique of withdrawing the sheet from the output tray to return it for duplexing (similar to the description of the '252 patent) are generally implemented in lower end, lower cost systems, with the sacrifice of speed being exchanged for reduced cost. However, in either type of system, there is a continual effort to reduce costs, increase speed, and provide improved options for the customer.
To this end, it is also known in the art to implement duplexing systems by creating the duplexing feature as an add-on option to an already existing imaging system, such as a laser printer. This enables a lower cost non-duplexing system that can be subsequently upgraded to a duplexing system by the purchase of the add-on duplexer. However, these add-on type duplexers generally require separate drive motors and duplicate components relative to what already exist in the imaging system to which the add-on duplexer is added. Thus, overall costs may actually be greater than if the duplexer is purchased as an integrated feature of the original imaging system.
Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to enable a low cost duplexer through the integration of certain duplexing functionality into the base engine while retaining some add-on type capability.


A mobile communications device is provided with an integrally associated ignitor device for enabling the use of the device to light flammable items, such as cigarettes. The combined communications device and ignitor device facilitate the ready availability of an ignitor device for lighting smokable items or for igniting emergency flammable items, such as flares or kindling.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to mobile communications devices, such as mobile telephones or PDAs, and specifically relates to the combination of a mobile communications device with a cigarette lighter device to facilitate ready location of an ignition device for igniting a smokable or flammable item.
2. Description of Related Art
In the current age, mobile communications devices, particularly mobile telephones, are ubiquitous. In many parts of the world, many people are seldom without them, carrying them on their belts, in their purses, pockets, automobiles, or any other number of readily handy places. Because they are constantly in communication with others, either for business or personal reasons, people tend to be cognizant of their mobile telephones and tend to always know where they are and keep them available.
In contrast, people who smoke constantly misplace their cigarette lighters or other devices they use for lighting their cigarettes. As a result, smokers are constantly searching for a "light." At the same time, however, smokers presumably use mobile telephones or other communications devices with the same frequency as non-smokers, or as the population at large. Thus, many smokers will generally be able to locate their mobile telephones even when they cannot find their lighters or other igniting device.
As a consequence, it would be an improvement on the existing technology to combine a cigarette lighter with a mobile communications device to create one unit that serves multiple functions. This would allow smokers who carry mobile telephones or other communications devices to always be in possession of a means to light their cigarettes. Even if a smoker was not in possession of a mobile communications device with a cigarette lighter function, he or she could probably obtain a "light" from another person having a mobile communications device with such a function.
A mobile communications device with a cigarette lighter function provides a benefit not only to smokers, but also to hikers and other individuals who may find themselves lost or stranded in a cold or otherwise hostile environment and in need of a source of flame to build a fire. Once again, people are frequently caught in such situations without matches or other fire-starting materials, but would more likely have their mobile phones. While having a mobile phone in such dire circumstances would usually allow a stranded person to call for help, the ready availability of an ignition device would allow the person to build a fire until help arrived. Furthermore, hikers, and even motorists, can frequently find themselves lost or stranded in an area that lacks communications frequency transmission, and having access to a lighter may provide the very chance for survival.
Thus, it would be an advantage in the art, for the reasons stated previously, to provide a mobile communications device with an integrally formed or attached ignition device for producing a heat source that may be used to ignite flammable items, such as cigarettes or kindling.

Mobile telecommunications device with cigarette lighter