A reset signal generation circuit included in an output control circuit ANDs a reset signal for resetting complementary data buses for transferring data to a second output stage at prescribed timing and an internal control signal corresponding to a read mask signal and outputs a reset signal for resetting other complementary data buses for transferring the data to a final output stage. Thus, invalid data is reset on the complementary data buses.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a semiconductor memory device, and more particularly, it relates to a synchronous semiconductor memory device performing an operation in response to an external clock signal.
2. Description of the Prior Art
A synchronous semiconductor memory device developed for high-speed access executes every operation (instruction) necessary for reading or writing data in synchronization with a clock (external clock signal) supplied from the exterior in a stable cycle.
The structure of a principal part of a conventional synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 is now described with reference to FIG. 11.
The conventional synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 shown in FIG. 11 comprises a plurality of banks (FIG. 11 representatively shows a bank B0), an output stage 10 and an output control circuit 20.
The synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 further comprises an internal clock generation circuit (not shown) for generating an internal clock signal synchronous with an external clock signal, for reading data from the bank B0 in synchronization with the internal clock signal when a read instruction is inputted from the exterior. The output stage 10 outputs the data read from the bank B0 to a data input/output terminal DQ on the basis of a signal outputted from the output control circuit 20. A read mask signal (referred to as EXTDQM) inputted from the exterior in such a read operation is adapted to mask (inhibit) output of the data at prescribed timing.
The structure of the output stage 10 is now described. The output stage 10 comprises a first output stage C1, a second output stage C2 and a final output stage C3.
The first output stage C1 includes a preamplifier 11 and a gate circuit 12. Complementary data buses RDA and ZRDA connect the preamplifier 11 and the gate circuit 12 with each other. The preamplifier 11 amplifies the data read from the bank B0. The gate circuit 12 outputs the data received from the preamplifier 11 to complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF in response to a gate control signal ZBEST(0).
When four banks are provided, data read from the remaining banks (not shown) are transferred to the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF in response to gate control signals ZBEST(1), ZBEST(2) and ZBEST(3) outputted from the output control circuit 20 respectively. In other words, the data outputted from any bank are selectively transferred to the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF in response to any of the gate control signals ZBEST(0), ZBEST(1), ZBEST(2) and ZBEST(3).
The second output stage C2 comprises a gate circuit 13 and a latch circuit 14. The gate circuit 13 fetches the data from the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF in response to a gate control signal RDGATE. The latch circuit 14 latches the data received from the gate circuit 13 and outputs the same to complementary data buses RD and ZRD.
The final output stage C3 comprises a gate circuit 15 and an output buffer 16. The gate circuit 15 latches the data from the complementary data buses RD and ZRD in response to a gate control signal CLKOEN. The output buffer 16 amplifies the data received from the gate circuit 15 and outputs the same to the data input/output terminal DQ.
The complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF are connected with a P-channel MOS transistor P1. The transistor P1 resets the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF in response to a reset control signal ZRDFPC.
The complementary data buses RD and ZRDF are connected with a P-channel MOS transistor P2. The transistor P2 resets the complementary data buses RD and ZRD in response to a reset control signal ZRDPC.
The output control circuit 20 is now described.
The output control signal 20 generates various signals for controlling the flow of the data in the output stage 10. FIG. 11 representatively illustrates a reset signal generation circuit 21, a gate control signal generation circuit 22, a reset signal generation circuit 23, a gate control signal generation circuit 24 and an output control signal generation circuit 25.
The reset signal generation circuit 21 outputs the reset signal ZRDFPC for controlling the ON/OFF state of the transistor P1. The gate control signal generation circuit 22 outputs the gate control signal RDGATE for controlling switching of the gate circuit 13. The reset signal generation circuit 23 outputs the reset signal ZRDPC for controlling the ON/OFF state of the transistor P2. The gate control signal generation circuit 24 outputs the gate control signal CLKOEN for controlling switching of the gate circuit 15. The output control signal generation circuit 25 outputs an output enable signal OEM for controlling the operation of the output buffer 16.
The circuit structures of the output control signal generation circuit 25 and the final output stage C3 are now described with reference to FIG. 12.
The final output stage C3 is first described. As shown in FIG. 12, the gate circuit 15 includes NAND circuits N3, N4, N5 and N6 and an invertor circuit I2. The NAND circuit N4 is connected with the complementary data buses RD and ZRD. The NAND circuit N3 receives the gate control signal CLKOEN and a power supply voltage VDD. The invertor circuit I2 inverts and outputs an output of the NAND circuit N3. The NAND circuit N5 is connected with the data bus RD and output nodes of the NAND circuit N4 and the invertor circuit I2. The NAND circuit N6 is connected with the data bus ZRD and the output nodes of the NAND circuit N4 and the invertor circuit I2. The gate circuit 15 transfers the data received from the complementary data buses RD and ZRD to the output buffer 16 in response to the gate control signal CLKOEN.
The output buffer 16 is formed by a driver 17 and a latch circuit 18. The latch circuit 18 includes an invertor circuit I1, NAND circuits N1 and N2, AND circuits A1 and A2 and NOR circuits NR1 and NR2. The latch circuit 18 latches the signal outputted from the gate circuit 15 and outputs the same to complementary data buses DQ0 and ZDQ0. The output enable signal OEM outputted from the output control signal generation circuit 25 controls the operation of the latch circuit 18.
The driver 17 is connected with the complementary data buses DQ0 and ZDQ0. The driver 17 receives the data from the complementary data buses DQ0 and ZDQ0, for amplifying and outputting the result to the data input/output terminal DQ.
The output control signal generation circuit 25 is now briefly described. As shown in FIG. 12, the output control signal generation circuit 25 includes shift circuits 30 and 31, a NAND circuit N19 and an invertor circuit I4.
The shift circuit 31 shifts a signal OEMF by a time responsive to a CAS latency CL and outputs the same (signal OEMST). The CAS latency LC is a value indicating the number of the clock for starting outputting the data after input of a read instruction READ. The signal OEMF, which keeps a high level by a burst length BL (value indicating the number of clocks of read data to be outputted), is generated on the basis of the read instruction READ.
The shift circuit 30 includes NAND circuits N11, N12, N13, N14, N15, N16, N17 and N18. The shift circuit 30 outputs an internal control signal ZDQM in a delay by one clock with respect to an internal clock signal CLK (and an inverted clock signal ZCLK. The internal control signal ZDQM is a negative-phase internal signal corresponding to the read mask signal EXTDQM.
The NAND circuit N19 receives the signal OEMST and the output signal from the shift circuit 30 in its input. The invertor circuit I4 receives an output signal from the NAND circuit N19 in its input, for inverting the same and outputting the result as the output enable signal OEM.
The synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 successively outputs the data read from the banks to the exterior in a pipeline operation on the basis of the aforementioned reset signal ZRDFPC and ZRDPC, gate control signals ZBEST(0) to ZBEST(3), RDGATE and CLKOEN, and output enable signal OEM.
An operation of the conventional synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 is now described with reference to a timing chart shown at (A) to (Q) in FIG. 13.
A read operation with reference to the bank B0 is described on the assumption that the CAS latency CL is 3 and the burst length BL is 4. It is assumed that the internal clock signal CLK rises at times t1, t2, t3 . . . . It is also assumed that the synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 performs the read operation only with respect to the single bank B0 (thus, the gate control signal ZBEST(0) is regularly fixed at a low level). It is further assumed that the read mask signal EXTDQM is inputted at a time t5 (for masking data outputted at a time t7 if the latency is 2).
As shown in FIG. 13, an activation instruction ACT (for activating a word line) is inputted at the time t1 and the read instruction READ is inputted at the time t3, whereby a column selection signal CSL rises to a high level to activate a column system of the bank B0. Thus, first read data (read at the time t3) is transferred to the preamplifier 11, which in turn amplifies this data and transfers the result to the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF.
Following a time t4, the gate control signal RDGATE goes high at a proper time. Therefore, the latch circuit 14 fetches the data from the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF. Thus, the latch circuit 14 transfers the first read data from the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF to the complementary data buses RD and ZRD.
Then, the reset signal ZRDFPC of a low level is generated at a proper time so that the transistor P1 receiving the same in its gate conducts, thereby precharging the complementary data buses RDF, ZRDF, RDA and ZRDA.
Then, a second column selection signal CSL rises to a high level for transferring second read data (read at the time t4) to the preamplifier 11. The preamplifier 11 amplifies the transferred second data and transfers the result to the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF again.
Following the time t5, the gate control signal CLKOEN goes high at a proper time so that the output buffer 16 fetches the first read data transferred to the complementary data buses RD and ZRD at the time t4.
The data input/output terminal DQ outputs the data (Q0 at (C) in FIG. 13) fetched in the output buffer 16 to the exterior when the output enable signal OEM enters a high-level state.
Then, the reset signal ZRDPC of a low level is generated at a proper time so that the transistor P2 receiving this signal in its gate conducts, thereby precharging the complementary data buses RD and ZRD. Thus, next data can be transferred.
Then, the gate control signal RDGATE goes high at a proper time. Thus, the second read data is transferred from the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF to the complementary data buses RD and ZRD.
Then, the reset signal ZRDFPC of a low level is generated at a proper time so that the transistor P1 receiving this signal in its gate enters a conducting state, thereby precharging the complementary data buses RDF, ZRDF, RDA and ZRDA.
Then, a third column selection signal CSL goes high for transferring third read data (read at the time t5) to the preamplifier 11. The preamplifier 11 amplifies and transfers the data to the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF.
At a time t6, the gate control signal CLKOEN goes high, so that the output buffer 16 fetches the second read data transferred to the complementary data buses RD and ZRD.
However, the output enable signal OEM goes low due to the read mask signal EXTDQM inputted at the time t5. Therefore, the second read data, which is to be outputted from the data input/output terminal DQ to the exterior at the time t7, is not outputted.
The same operation is further repeated for outputting data Q0, Q2 and Q3 in correspondence to the first, third and fourth read data except the second read data.
If the CAS latency CL is 2, the complementary data buses RDA and ZRDA, RDF and ZRDF and RD and ZRD perform the same operations in a single cycle. In this case, these complementary data buses RDA and ZRDA, RDF and ZRDF and RD and ZRD are simultaneously precharged.
As hereinabove described, the conventional synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 can output the data by operating at the timing shown at (A) to (Q) in FIG. 13 in synchronization with the external clock signal supplied from the exterior in a stable cycle.
However, the conventional synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 disadvantageously outputs data to be masked to the exterior, as described below.
This problem of the conventional synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 is now described with reference to a timing chart shown at (A) to (J) in FIG. 14.
It is assumed that data are read at times identical to those shown at (A) to (Q) in FIG. 13. The read mask signal EXTDQM is inputted at a time t5.
As shown in FIG. 14, the output enable signal OEM falls from a high level to a low level at a time t6, due to the read mask signal EXTDQM inputted at the time t5. At this fall timing, the output enable signal OEM cannot immediately fall to the low level with respect to the leading edge of the external clock signal EXTCLK, in order to satisfy a data hold tOH (generally 3 ns) of output data. Therefore, the output enable signal OEM must maintain the high level for a period of several ns from the leading edge (time t6) of the external clock signal EXTCLK.
On the other hand, the synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 must perform the serial transfer operation (pipeline operation) for transferring the data from the complementary data buses RD and ZRD to the output buffer 16, then from the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF to the complementary data buses RD and ZRD and from the bank B0 to the complementary data buses RDF and ZRDF in a single operation clock. In order to increase the data output speed (operating speed) of the conventional synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000, therefore, the gate control signal CLKOEN must rise as fast as possible so that the output buffer 16 fetches the data at a high speed.
When such requirement is satisfied, however, the output enable signal OEM maintains the high-level state on the trailing edge of the gate control signal CLKOEN (see the output enable signal OEM at the time t6 shown at (D) in FIG. 14). Thus, the output buffer 16 disadvantageously fetches the data to be masked despite the read mask instruction and outputs the same to the exterior (see an output DOUT at the time t6 shown at (J) in FIG. 14).
If the synchronous semiconductor memory device 9000 outputs this data (hereinafter referred to as invalid data), which must not be outputted from the first, to the exterior, a malfunction is disadvantageously caused in a system receiving the invalid data.

Synchronous semiconductor memory device having function of inhibiting output of invalid data


The present invention relates to a new guide actuator with high radial direction load capability, which has the purpose of providing a directional force bearing way to common loading method to make the actuator can bear load and transmit with higher accuracy. On design, the present invention has grooves bearing load at the center of the bottom of the U-shape guide structure, and a table is set between two inner side walls of the U-shape guide structure, grooves corresponding to the grooves of the U-shape guide structure being set at the bottom of the table, rollers being set between grooves and grooves to make the table and the U-shape guide structure slide respect to each other with very low friction due to rolling motion of the rollers with high radial load capability.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a guide actuator fit to be applied on machining tools, robotics, electrical equipments and automation industry, and so on, especially to a new one having U-shape guide structure and enabling to bear higher radial load.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Commonly known linear guide actuators are mainly composed of a pair of parallel linear slide rails fastened on an assistant frame, a movable table locked on a table of the linear slide rail, and a screw or a belt used as an actuating structure to drive the table to move back and forth (as U.S. Pat. No. 5,598,043). The assistant frame is usually made of cast iron, but it is more difficult in manufacturing process and more expensive in cost. Therefore, some designs are made of extruded aluminum for reducing cost. The aluminum material is soft enough to be extruded as every kind of shape to reduce process cost. However, aluminum has low stiffness such that linearity and parallelism are relatively more unstable. In this way, it is essential to adjust carefully and pay more attention to the assembling geometry precision.
FIG. 6 is a prior improved design (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,273,381 and 5,277,498). The design uses a U-shape guide structure (1) made of iron and steel but not linear slide rails and an assistant frame. A pair of grooves (16) are respectively set at the inner walls of two sides of the U-shape guide structure, and there are steel balls (8) set in the grooves to guide the table (2) slide directly along the grooves (16) of the guide structure. Because the U-shape guide structure is made of steel and iron, the design has better intensity. Besides, the structure of the design is simple such that time and requirement of experience of users for assembly are reduced. However, when the improved design bears weight, or withstands a downward force (as F shown in the figure), both walls of two sides of the U-shape guide structure would spread out slightly due to withstanding steel balls such that the table (2) slightly descend. Therefore, the precision of the guide actuator is lowered to affect the stiffness of the mechanism and positioning accuracy. Unfortunately, most guide actuators are set in this way, including the single axis type and two axes type, X-Y actuator. The X-Y actuator according to this way bears force from upside to underside. As long as the mechanism on the table is too heavy or the table bears too much load downward, the precision of the actuator would be affected obviously. Moreover, the actuator may bears too heavy load to be destroyed.
Besides, there is another type of transmission mechanism such as one disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 4,659,238 by the name of "Linear Guideway". It is essentially installing a block on a rail, then afterwards fasten a table onto the block such that the table is movable with respect to the rail. Since the rail provided in this case is designed to configure into a narrow, elongated small cross section element whose cross sectional moment of inertia is very small, the rail is apt to be distorted and flexed causing inconvenient to assemble. Moreover, the planarity of the base entraining the mechanism greatly affects the parallelism of table movement. Because the actuating means is not included in this prior art so that an extra actuating means must be required to connect with the block thereby requiring an extra space in the mechanism to accommodate actuating means. As a result production efficiency of the machine will be greatly lowered by spending too much labor force for calendering and caliberating the base.

Guide actuator with high radial direction load capacity


A meta-hardened circuit that reduces the effects of metastability preferably includes a pulse generator coupled to receive a first clock signal and generate in response thereto a second clock signal and an enable signal. A buffer, preferably tri-state, is coupled to receive a first data signal and the enable signal and generate in response thereto a second data signal. A bi-stable device, such as a flip-flop, is coupled to receive the second clock signal and the second data signal. The pulse generator preferably includes a combining device and a delay device. The buffer preferably includes at least one tri-state inverter and a keeper circuit. A method to reduce the metastability effects preferably includes the step of generating a delay between a second data input signal and a second clock signal that is greater than a delay between a first data input signal and a first clock signal. The step of generating preferably occurs in one clock cycle. The method also preferably includes generating an enable pulse by generating a second clock signal in response to a first clock signal and combining the first and second clock signals to generate the enable signal, and generating a second data input signal in response to a first data input signal, where generating the second data input signal includes receiving an enable signal. The method preferably includes the step of generating an output signal in response to the second data input signal and the second clock signal, the output signal having a reduced metastable effect.

Most digital systems have at least one asynchronous input. For example, a computer can have a power-on reset signal, an interrupt signal or a data signal being input at a frequency independent of the system clock. All such systems must synchronize the asynchronous input signal to the system clock before utilizing the input signal.
One method of synchronizing the input signal to a system clock is to use a bi-stable latch or storage element. A flip-flop is one such bi-stable storage element. A conventional flip-flop requires that an input signal, usually a data signal, have a minimal setup time. Setup time is the amount of time the input signal must be stable before the system clock transitions to store the input signal in the flip-flop. The input signal must also remain for a minimal hold time, which is the required time for the output signal of the flip-flop to change state to the value of the input signal.
However, since the input signal is asynchronous to the system clock, an event may occur where either the setup or hold time will be violated. This event causes the output signal of the flip-flop to be an unknown state. Further, the final transition of the flip-flop's output signal may be abnormally delayed. This phenomenon, known as "metastability," can cause errors in other circuits that are coupled to receive the synchronized input signal.
Metastability occurs at a certain time window of the system clock transition. Referring to FIG. 1, the graph shows a flip-flop propagation delay versus a data input timing. The left side of the graph, defined by line 10, shows the input data signal transition occurring well in advance of the setup time and clock transition. This condition causes an output 12 of a flip-flop to become stable after a normal propagation delay T.sub.p, as illustrated in FIG. 1.
Metastability occurs in a time window T.sub.w. During time window T.sub.w, the input data signal transitions within a certain time before or after the transition of the system clock. As a result, output signal 12 is delayed for a time T.sub.pde. If the input signal violates the hold time, output 12 may not follow the input signal, as shown at 14. For a further discussion, please refer to Hoang Nguyen, How to Detect Metastability Problems, ASIC & EDA, February 1993, which is incorporated herein by reference.
As designers push circuit frequencies to 200 MHz, one area of concern is how metastability will affect system reliability. The increasing frequencies have an adverse effect on the mean time between failures (MTBF) due to synchronization failures caused by flip-flop metastability. The MTBF increases exponentially with the clock and data rates. See the referenced article supra.
Various circuit design methods have been used to improve the MTBF of the flip-flop. Such methods include reducing the load at the master transmission gate, or using different types of transmission gates. The improvement gained in the MTBF by using these methods is insignificant. Another method uses two clock cycles, which exacts a time penalty that is disadvantageous for high-speed systems.
A need exists for a flip-flop circuit that reduces the effect of metastability while increasing the MTBF. The present invention meets this need.


Die (110) and/or undiced wafers and/or multichip modules (MCMs) are attached on top of an interposer (120) or some other structure (e.g. another integrated circuit) and are covered by an encapsulant (160). Then the interposer is thinned from below. Before encapsulation, a layer (410) more rigid than the encapsulant is formed on the interposer around the die to reduce or eliminate interposer dishing between the die when the interposer is thinned by a mechanical process (e.g. CMP). Other features are also provided.

The present invention relates to semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs), and more particularly to assemblies of multiple ICs.
FIG. 1 illustrates a typical assembly with multiple ICs 110 connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) 114. Each IC 110 is a die initially fabricated with other die as part of a larger wafer but then separated from the wafer. Oftentimes, die 110 are not attached to the PCB directly because PCB contact pads 114C cannot be spaced as closely from each other as the die's contact pads 110C due to coarser PCB fabrication technologies. Therefore, the die are attached to the PCB through an interposer (ITP) 120; the interposer's top contact pads 120C.T match the die's contact pads 110C, and the interposer's bottom contact pads 120C.B match the PCB contact pads 114C. The interposer thus provides a contact redistribution function. Also, in many assemblies, the die's coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) is different from the PCB, and the interposer relieves thermal stresses due to the CTE mismatch between the die and the PCB.
The die-to-interposer and interposer-to-PCB attachments are shown at 126, and they can be solder, conductive or anisotropic adhesive, or can be formed by direct diffusion bonding without additional solder or adhesive materials. PCB 114 includes conductive interconnects 114L which interconnect the PCB contact pads 114C in a desired pattern.
Interposer 120 is manufactured based on a substrate 120S, possibly silicon, glass, or some other material. Conductive vias 130 pass through the substrate and terminate at contact pads 120C.T. (Vias 130 can be electrically insulated from substrate 120S by dielectric 134 if the substrate 120S is not dielectric.) On top of substrate 120S, a redistribution layer (RDL) 140 provides the top contact pads 120C.T and also provides conductive lines 140L that connect the vias 130 to contact pads 120C.T (RDL lines 140L may also connect the top contact pads 120C.T to each other, and/or connect the vias 130 to each other.) Lines 140L are electrically insulated from each other and, if needed, from substrate 120S, by RDL dielectric 140D.
Underfill ("UF") 150 is introduced between the die 110 and interposer 120 to glue the die to the interposer around the attachments 126. Underfills reduce the thermal stresses (mechanical stresses generated by thermal expansion) on connections 126, which is especially important if the die CTE in the XY plane (the plane of interposer 120) does not match the interposer. A typical underfill is a plastic organic polymer (e.g. cured epoxy resin), often with additives (e.g. fire retardants), possibly with hard-particle fillers (silica, alumina, or others) used to reduce the underfill CTE and possibly adjust other parameters of interest, and to lower the cost. An encapsulant 160 covers the die to protect them from contaminants and to mechanically strengthen the structure. The encapsulant can be organic polymeric material (possibly with additives, including hard-particle fillers), the same or similar to the underfill materials described above, and can be deposited in a flowable form (liquid or semi-solid, e.g. by molding or without a mold), or by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Underfill 162 (possibly but not necessarily the same material as 150) can glue the interposer 120 to PCB 114 around the corresponding connections 126.
In many applications, the interposer substrate 120S should be thin to reduce the assembly size and the length of vias 130. However, a thin substrate is fragile and, in addition, is easily warped by internal and external stresses, e.g. thermal stresses. Therefore, in some manufacturing processes, the interposer fabrication starts with a thick substrate 120S, and the substrate is thinned at a later stage. For example, in FIG. 2A, the substrate 120S is initially thick, and the vias 130 penetrate the substrate only partially. Substrate 120S is thinned only after formation of RDL 140 (FIG. 2B); the thinning exposes the vias 130 on the bottom. Further, before the substrate is thinned, it is strengthened by a temporary carrier wafer 210 attached to the interposer's top surface; the carrier wafer provides mechanical strength, reduces warpage, and improves heat dissipation. Mechanical strength is particularly important if the interposer thinning involves mechanical processes such as grinding, lapping, chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP), etc.
Carrier wafer 210 is later removed to allow die attachment to the top of the interposer. Alternative processes are desirable.

Integrated circuit assemblies with rigid layers used for protection against mechanical thinning and for other purposes, and methods of fabricating such assemblies


A compact disc identification kit includes a base portion supporting an alignment post and a soft material surrounding the alignment post for the purpose of supporting and protecting a compact disc. A stamp pad support has a bore fittable over the alignment post to enable centering of the stamp pad, in this case an annular stamp ring, with respect to the compact disc. A stamp accommodation depression enables the mounting of the stamp pad support in the kit and about the alignment post when the kit is not in use.

This invention relates to an apparatus and method for personalizing individual compact discs. More particularly, the invention relates to a self contained method and kit which facilitates the quick, easy marking of compact discs in a manner which not only helps to keep track of the component parts used for marking, but which also provides a structure for gently and safely supporting a compact disc and aligning the disc with its identification stamp.
Compact discs are polymer coated metallic, generally flat, annular discs of material in which a series of pits have been formed. The pits are typically a half wave length deep in order to permit a finally tuned laser to determine the existence of the pits. The existence of the pits are determined rapidly in a "reading" of the compact disc. Compact discs are used for storing data, music, and even video signals.
Typically the plastic coating of a compact disc can withstand some abuse without a serious degradation of the quality of the "read." However, especially where the compact disc is one of which a musical performance is recorded, it is important to attempt to insure that the compact discs are treated in such a way that they will not be scratched, nicked or cut.
Compact disc owners are known to treat their compact discs with extreme care, to ensure that even the smallest of nicks, scratches and marks will not occur on the plane surface.
Further, it is also undesirable to cause of a compact disc to deviate from its intended condition of planarity. Compact discs spin quite rapidly in the plane devices. Given that the pits which are "read" are only one half of a wave length deep, any warping of the compact disc on the order a quarter of a wave length could cause serious problems. These problems would relate to the reading of the compact disc, in addition to potential damage to the compact disc players.
Compact discs containing musical performances cost significantly more than cassette tapes. It is not unusual for compact discs to range in price from about $15-25. For the serious audio file, having a music library of several hundred compact discs can be quite costly. The cost and permanence of compact discs enhance their value as a long lasting asset. Because of the value of a library compact discs and their potential loss to the owner, it is desirable to permanently mark the discs with the identity of the owner to both deter the likelihood of their being taken during a crime and to permit identification and recovery of the compact discs one the crime has occurred.
The marking of the compact disc storage box would be easily accomplishable, but would not seriously deter theft since the storage box could be easily discarded. On the compact disc itself, the only area of any portion which is available for marking is a small annular area adjacent the central aperture in the compact disc. The potential exists for etching away a portion of the plastic covering, such as with a vibrating pin, in order to mark the compact disc. However, such a method produces a marking which is not to readily seen at first glance and the pressure of the vibrating pin may warp or bend the disc.
One other method which has shown some promise is the use of heat to form an impression stamp on the inner most annular area of the compact disc. However, remembering that compact discs are of laminate construction having a layer of metal sandwitched between two layers of plastic, it is readily apparent that heating could cause the compact disc to warp. Such a process is not easy to control. Even if the temperature of the "brand" were controlled, there would be a corresponding need to control both the duration and pressure with which the identifying branding iron was impressed into the compact disc. Further, although an impression "brand" could be obtained, it still may not be as readily visually apparent since the material forming the impression is clear plastic.
What is therefore needed is a method for marking compact discs in which the disc can be treated in a very gentle manner so as not to spoil the read surfaces of the compact disc. The needed method should not involve heat, which always runs the risk of warping the disc, and should not involve undue pressure or vibration on the disc. Further, the method of identification should be one which is readily observable and sufficiently permanent so that it cannot be removed by individuals who misappropriate the compact discs. It is also desirable that the physical attribute of the system used to mark the compact disc be one that is not costly or complex and which is not given to failure through the loss of one or more of its component parts.


An electrical connector (100) includes an insulative body (2), a number of contacts (1), and a metal shell (5). The insulative body includes an upper wall (21), a lower wall (22), a pair of sidewalls (23), and a rear wall (24) connecting between the upper wall, the lower wall, and the sidewalls for cooperatively defining a receiving space (20). The insulative body has a mating tongue (25) extending forwardly from the rear wall into the receiving space. The contacts are retained in the mating tongue and partly exposed in the receiving space. The metal shell has a length along a front-and-rear direction smaller than that of the receiving space. The metal shell has a length along a front-and-rear direction smaller than that of the receiving space so as to be positioned on a front part of the lower wall for reducing interference between the metal shell and an antenna.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to an electrical connector, and more particularly to an electrical connector reducing antenna interference.
2. Description of Related Arts
Japan Pat. No. 4875130 issued to Hirose on 2011 Dec. 2 discloses an electrical connector comprising a metal shield with a receiving space, a plurality of contacts received in the receiving space of the metal shield, and an insulative body molding over the metal shield and retaining the contacts. The metal shield together with the contacts is insert-molded in one-shot via the insulative body. The insulative body forms an insulative cover adhering to an outside surface of the metal shield and a tongue portion extending forwardly into the receiving space for supporting the contacts. The metal shield usually has a large length along an insertion direction to extend from an insertion opening to an inner connecting surface between the insulative cover and the insulative body. The metal shield usually has a plurality of grounding tails to be soldered with a printed circuit board of an electronic device such as a mobile phone which usually has an antenna for both transmitting and receiving signals. Therefore, the metal shield has an antenna interference issue because a small distance between the metal shield and the antenna when the electrical connector is assembled on the printed circuit board of the electronic device.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,845,363 issued to Ardisana, II et al. on 2014 Sep. 30 discloses an electronic device including a receptacle connector. Reinforcing element may be embedded within an upper portion of shell adjacent to antenna of device. As the position of antenna may vary among electronic devices, so may the position of reinforcing element vary to be adjacent to antenna and embedded in shell. Some embodiments disclosed relate to improved receptacle connector shells that can provide for a smaller, stronger receptacle connector shell, increased Electromagnetic Interference and Electromagnetic Compatibility performance ("EMI/EMC performance"), and increased flexibility in the positioning of an antenna within the enclosure of an electronic device.
An electrical connector reducing antenna interference is desired.

Electrical connector reducing antenna interference


‘Kakegawa S85’ is a new Calibrachoa cultivar particularly distinguished by having a white flower color and a creeping growth habit.

The present invention comprises a new and distinct cultivar of Calibrachoa, botanically known as Calibrachoa sp., and hereinafter referred to by the cultivar name 'Kakegawa S85.' It is characterized by having white flower color and creeping growth habit. The new cultivar originated from a hybridization made in 2001 in Kakegawa, Japan. The female parent was a proprietary hybrid Calibrachoa breeding line named 'K8-1463' having a white flower color and a creeping plant growth habit. The male parent was a proprietary hybrid Calibrachoa breeding line named '0B-11A-1' characterized by its apricot flower color and semi-creeping plant growth habit.
In 2001, 'K8-1463' and '0B-11A-1' were crossed and 37 seeds were obtained. In fall 2001, the F1 seed was sown in the greenhouse and produced plant lines with erect and creeping growth habits and deep apricot, pale apricot and white flower colors. Line 'K2-143' was selected for its white flower color and creeping plant growth habit. In spring 2002, 'K2-143' was vegetatively propagated by cuttings in Kakegawa and re-evaluated. The line was subsequently named 'Kakegawa S85' and its unique characteristics were found to reproduce true to type in successive generations of asexual propagation.
Plant Breeder's Rights for this cultivar were applied for in Canada on Mar. 31, 2006.


The invention entails synthetic short peptides based on Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) fusion protein. The peptides are broad-spectrum antivirals, and are useful for prophylactic treatment against or therapeutic treatment of infection by hemorrhagic fever viruses, such as RVFV, Ebola Virus, and Andes Virus, as well as vesicular stomatitis virus.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to novel, broad-spectrum, antiviral peptides, compositions containing one or more of these, and their use for the prophylactic treatment against and/or therapeutic treatment of infection by hemorrhagic fever viruses (HFVs), such as Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), Ebola virus (EBOV), and Andes virus (ANDV). Additionally, these peptides were capable of inhibiting vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), an agricultural pathogen with limited therapeutic availability.
2. Background
Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are highly infectious and often fatal. VHF viruses possess enveloped RNA genomes and emanate from four distinct families, the Arenaviridae, Bunyaviridae, Filoviridae, and Flaviviridae. Upon infection in humans, VHFs elicit a flu-like illness (e.g., fever, malaise, headache, sore throat), which can rapidly progress into a life-threatening multisystem syndrome, with mortality rates reaching as high as 95%. To date, effective countermeasures to VHFs are either unavailable or inadequate. In addition to natural outbreaks, the threat posed by these viruses is further heightened due to their potential use as bioweapons, which is substantiated by their capacity for dissemination by the aerosol route (4) (reference citations are listed at the end of this document text). Inadequate countermeasures targeted against these viruses pose a serious threat to military welfare and public health. Viral agents contributing to this threat include, for example purposes only, RVFV, EBOV and ANDV.
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a disease of major public health and economic concern, affecting humans and livestock throughout Africa (1, 10, 11, 13, 23, 25) and the Arabian Peninsula (33). The etiological agent of this zoonosis, RVFV, is an arbovirus belonging to the Phlebovirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae. RVFV was first identified following an outbreak in Kenya's Rift Valley in 1931 (10). RVFV infection is severe in animals, especially sheep, cattle, and goats, resulting in high mortality rates in newborns and near 100% abortion rates in pregnant animals. In humans, infection is usually self-limiting, but a small percent of cases (1-2%) can progress to severe hepatitis with hemorrhagic manifestations. In addition, retinal inflammation can lead to permanent vision loss in about 1-10% of infected patients (23).
In addition to RVFV, other HFVs of concern to humans include ANDV, a bunyavirus, and EBOV, a filovirus. Occasional outbreaks of EBOV can lead to extremely high morbidity and mortality, and ANDV is endemic in South America. All of these are highly pathogenic biothreat agents, and currently there are no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved vaccines or therapeutics against these agents licensed for human use. Additionally, VSV, which can cause a limited disease in humans (20), can cause an acute disease in pigs, horses, and cattle that usually resolves within two weeks.
RVFV, EBOV, ANDV and VSV are enveloped animal viruses, which are able to infect a target cell after (1) binding to a target cell membrane, and (2) fusing with either the plasma membrane or an internal membrane of the target cell. The fusing process is carried out by the virus fusion proteins. The envelope fusogenic proteins are comprised of at least two different classes of fusion proteins based on structural similarities. The fusion proteins of arena-, filo-, myxo-, paramyxo-, and retroviruses are collectively known as Class I fusion proteins. Features of Class I fusion proteins include a N-terminal membrane disruptive fusion peptide and a pair of extended alpha helices (15, 16, 40). The alpha-, bunya-, and flaviviruses utilize Class II fusion proteins which are characterized by predominately beta sheets and an internal fusion peptide domain. These fusion proteins contain multiple domains that interact with and disrupt bilayer membranes, a process required for virion-cell fusion (7).
Like other bunyaviruses, RVFV is an enveloped RNA virus containing three genome segments. The large (L) segment encodes the viral polymerase, the medium (M) segment the glycoproteins, Gn and Gc, and two non-structural proteins, and the small (S) segment the nucleocapsid protein, N, and the nonstructural protein NS s. RVFV entry into permissive cells is mediated by Gn and Gc, with Gc predicted to be a class II fusion protein [17] that uses a low pH-dependent fusion mechanism following endocytosis [14]. While little is known about the fusion process of RVFV, the functional aspects of other class II fusion proteins have been well characterized [18]. For example, the flavivirus fusion protein, E, binds to a cellular receptor, and the virus enters cells by endocytosis. Acidification of endocytic vesicles results in a low-pH dependent rearrangement of E, rearranging from a dimer to a trimer [3] and inserting a previously hidden fusion peptide into the target cellular membrane [26, 5, 2, 28]. A second rearrangement of the trimer pulls the viral and cellular membranes into close proximity to allow membrane disruption and fusion to occur [5]. Based on structural modeling, the hydrophobic residues of the stem region N-terminal to the transmembrane domain of E likely moves through a groove formed by domain II interactions in the E trimer during this second rearrangement; as the stem travels through this groove, domain II (with the fusion loop inserted into the endocytic membrane) is pulled toward the transmembrane domain within domain II [26]. These large conformational rearrangements that take place during this fusion process present potential opportunities to disrupt the fusion process and prevent a productive infection (18, 26).
Targeting this viral entry process with inhibitory peptides has proven successful with multiple viruses including the flavivirus dengue virus (DENV) (8, 19, 32), SARS coronavirus (31), and, most notably, HIV-1 (21, 39). The mechanism of action for various fusion inhibitors appears to differ depending on the region of the fusion protein the peptide was designed. For DENY, peptides designed to disrupt the hinge region of domain II or the beta sheet interaction between domains I and II are thought to trigger a rearrangement of the viral glycoproteins and thus interfere with virion binding to the targeted cell (8). In contrast, peptides homologous to the hydrophobic DENV stem region of the fusion protein interfere with fusion of the viral and cellular membranes (32). Data suggest that this stem peptide interferes with the movement of the viral stem region along domain II, preventing the two membranes from coming in close enough proximity to destabilize and fuse (32).
Yet another mechanism was described for HIV involving gp41 rearrangement in response to gp120 binding of CD4 and either the co-receptor CCR5 or CXCR4. This rearrangement exposes the C- and N-terminal heptad repeat domains which, following the second gp41 rearrangement, form a 6-helix bundle in the post-fusion state. Peptides analogous to the C-terminal heptad repeat bind to the exposed N-terminal heptad repeat when these domains are exposed, preventing completion of the second rearrangement and formation of the 6-helix bundle (22).

Antiviral rift valley fever virus peptides and methods of use

The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Army, on behalf of the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases


A method of manufacturing a vertical metal-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MESFET) device is provided. The method includes forming a first oxide layer, forming a first electrode in the oxide layer, forming a crystallized silicon layer on the first electrode, forming a second electrode on the first oxide layer and on sidewalls of the crystalized silicon layer, forming a second oxide layer on upper surfaces of the second electrode. The method also includes forming a third electrode on an upper surface of the crystallized silicon layer.

The present disclosure relates to three-dimensional (3D) stackable bidirectional access devices for memory arrays and methods of manufacturing the 3D stackable directional access devices. Back-end-of-line (BEOL) compatible access devices can enable a 3D memory array for both storage class memory and/or neuromorphic and cognitive computing. Ovonic threshold switches (OTS) are one possible access device that may be used in stackable 3D memory applications. It may be desirable to develop alternative solutions for stackable 3D memory applications.

3D stackable bidirectional access device for memory array

International Business Machines Corporation


A system and method for treating a prostate of a patient is disclosed. The system includes a rectal probe for insertion into a rectum of the patient. A fluid supply system connected to the rectal probe supplies fluid to the rectal probe. A microwave radiation system, which is positioned anterior to the rectum of the patient, heats tumorous tissue of the prostate. The combination of the microwave radiation system and the fluid supplied to the rectal probe creates an asymmetrical heating pattern about a urethra of the patient and protects tissue adjacent to the rectal probe from thermal damage during radiation of the tumorous tissue.

The present invention relates to the field of microwave thermal therapy of tissue. In particular, the present invention provides rectal cooling in conjunction with heating of diseased intraprostatic tissue.
The prostate gland is a complex, chestnut-shaped organ which encircles the urethra immediately below the bladder. This relatively small organ, which is the most frequently diseased of all internal organs, is the site of a common affliction among older men: benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as well as a more serious affliction, cancer. BPH is a nonmalignant, bilateral nodular expansion of the prostate tissue occurring mainly in the transition zone of the prostate. Left untreated, BPH causes obstruction of the urethra which usually results in increased urinary frequency, urgency, incontinence, nocturia and slow or interrupted urinary stream. BPH may also result in more severe complication, such as urinary tract infection, acute urinary retention, hydronephrosis and uraemia.
Recently developed treatments of BPH include transurethral microwave thermal therapy in which microwave energy is employed to elevate the temperature of diseased intraprostatic tissue surrounding the urethra above about 45.degree. C. thereby thermally damaging the tumorous BPH tissue. Delivery of microwave energy to tumorous prostatic tissue is generally accomplished through use of a transurethral microwave antenna-containing applicator or catheter positioned within the urethra adjacent the prostate gland. The microwave antenna, when energized, heats adjacent tissue due to molecular excitation and generates a cylindrically symmetrical radiation pattern which encompasses and necroses the tumorous intraprostatic tissue. The necrosed intraprostatic tissue is subsequently reabsorbed by the body, thereby relieving an individual from the symptoms of BPH.
While transurethral microwave thermal therapy mininizes the distance between a microwave antenna-carrying applicator and the transition zone of the prostate gland, there is still concern that healthy tissue located within the radiation pattern of the microwave antenna may be thermally damaged. In particular, rectal wall and adjacent tissue may be thermally damaged during a therapy session depending upon the length of time of the therapy session and the strength of the microwave signal transmitted from the microwave antenna.
Therefore, there is a need for a system and a method which will protect rectal wall and adjacent tissue from thermal damage during a transurethral microwave thermal therapy session in which tumorous prostatic tissue is necrosed.

System and method for transurethral heating with rectal cooling


A fluid ejection device includes a pulse generation unit that changes the volume of a fluid chamber using a volume changing section to eject pulsating flow; a fluid supply unit including a pump chamber and a pump chamber volume changing section that changes the volume of the pump chamber to supply the fluid to the pulse generation unit; a drive control unit that inputs a pulsating flow drive signal for driving the pump chamber volume changing section and inputs a fluid supply drive signal for driving the fluid supply unit; and an operation command input unit that inputs an operation command to the drive control unit, wherein the fluid supply drive signal and the pulsating flow drive signal are input in conjunction with the input of the operation command.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to a fluid ejection device and a medical device including the fluid ejection device.
2. Related Art
In a fluid ejection device such as a water jet knife that excises or incises living tissue using high-pressure fluid, a pump that supplies fluid (for example, physiological saline or Ringer's solution) at stable pressure over a long period of time is required. For example, JP-T-2010-509542 discloses a medical pump employing a technique of supplying fluid without interruption by alternately operating a plurality of pistons (plungers).
However, the above technique of the related art has a problem in that the mechanism for driving the plurality of plungers and the control means thereof are complex. Moreover, there is another problem in that it is difficult to secure high reliability of the pump, simplify the maintenance, and decrease manufacturing costs. On the other hand, a single plunger may be used in order to simplify the structure or the control thereof. However, if a single plunger is used, the size of the pump increases since a large amount of fluid has to be secured in a fluid supply unit, and an amount of fluid sufficient for ejection has to be secured in a pump chamber.

Fluid ejection device and medical device


Fabrication of through-substrate via (TSV) structures is facilitated by: forming at least one stress buffer within a substrate; forming a through-substrate via contact within the substrate, wherein the through-substrate via structure and the stress buffer(s) are disposed adjacent to or in contact with each other; and where the stress buffer(s) includes a configuration or is disposed at a location relative to the through-substrate via conductor, at least in part, according to whether the TSV structure is an isolated TSV structure, a chained TSV structure, or an arrayed TSV structure, to customize stress alleviation by the stress buffer(s) about the through-substrate via conductor based, at least in part, on the type of TSV structure.

Wafer-level production has been proposed to stack wafers together to produce extremely dense electronic packages. Through-substrate via (TSV) (such as through-silicon via) processing is one of the techniques used in wafer-level packaging. It enables the production of small form factor devices, and the stacking of wafers to facilitate three-dimensional integration. Although TSV processing may provide higher reliability and less parasitic effects, the one or more through-substrate vias typically have a higher coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) than the conventional wafer substrate, such as silicon. This CTE mismatch may result in significant stress in the substrate in the region of the through-substrate via, which may propagate outwards towards other devices. As such, TSVs may produce high stress, which may impact yield, and thereby increase costs.

Customized alleviation of stresses generated by through-substrate via(S)


Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for reliably communicating a detonation signal and perforating oil and/or gas well casings. Particularly, at least one embodiment includes a pass-through bulkhead connection switch that can reliably withstand high operating temperatures and pressures. Such pass-through bulkhead connection switch can be used in perforating gun assemblies and can eliminate or reduce incidents of failed detonations.

1. The Field of the Invention
This invention relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for communicating detonation and control signals in a perforating gun assembly.
2. Background and Relevant Art
During oil or gas extraction operations, a well casing, including the surrounding cement layers, can be perforated to access particular areas or zones of oil and/or gas deposits. Particularly, such perforations can create flow conduits, which can channel oil and gas from the deposit areas into the well. In some instances, a hydraulic fluid can be pumped into the well and through the perforations to produce fracking (or hydraulic fracturing) in the surrounding rock layers, which can facilitate increased flow of oil and/or gas into the well.
Commonly, the perforations are made with a perforating gun (or a perforating gun assembly) that is loaded with explosive charges (e.g., shape charges). Such perforating gun can have multiple charges positioned about the circumference thereof. Accordingly, as the perforating gun fires or detonates the charges, resulting blasts can create perforations at multiple locations about the circumference of the well casing.
A perforating string incorporating a single or multiple perforating guns can be lowered into the well and the perforating guns can be positioned at desired depths. Subsequently, a detonation signal from a detonation controller (typically located at ground level) can be sent to the perforating gun, detonating the charges in a desired sequence. For instance, the perforating string may contain two perforating guns, and the lower perforating gun may be fired first, while the upper perforating gun can be fired thereafter.
Commonly, zones that contain desirable amounts of oil and/or gas deposits can be relatively thin but numerous. Such zones can be separated from each other by nonproductive sections. Hence, using a perforating string with multiple perforating guns can be a most efficient procedure for accessing the oil and gas deposits near the well. Moreover, to access the oil and/or gas deposits, the multiple perforating guns can be selectively fired, to perforate the well casing adjacent the desired zones.
In some instances, the signal from the surface passes through a connection switch and triggers a detonator. The detonator can then ignite a detonating cord (e.g., Primacord), which can, in turn, detonate the explosive charges of the perforating gun. Commonly, connection switches, which pass the signal from the surface to the detonator, have various moving, mechanical components. Such mechanical components can increase the risk of failure of the connection switch. For example, connection switches can be subjected to high pressures (e.g., static pressure within the well and increased pressure from a blast wave created after detonation of the explosive charges) and high temperatures.
If a connection switch fails, usually the entire perforating string, including all of the perforating guns, is withdrawn out of the well to remedy the failure. Because some of the perforating guns may contain undetonated explosive charges extreme precautions typically must be taken to avoid surface detonation. Furthermore, usually, to replace the failed connection switches, the perforating guns are disassembled, which can be dangerous, time consuming, and expensive.
Accordingly, there are a number of disadvantages in devices, systems, and methods for communicating detonation signals in perforating gun assemblies that can be addressed.

Pass-through bulkhead connection switch for a perforating gun


A microcomputer in a radio frequency (RF) signal receiver, such as a cordless telephone set, periodically samples a received baseband audio signal to determine its frequency content. The microcomputer uses at least one predetermined frequency threshold value, and determines that the RF signal is present if the output signal contains signals no higher in frequency the frequency threshold value, and determines that the RF signal is absent if the output signal contains signals higher in frequency than the frequency threshold value. The circuit is useful in either a base unit or a handunit of a cordless telephone set.

It is common practice for cordless telephone systems to employ analog circuitry to measure the radio frequency (RF) field strength of a carrier on a receive channel, and to provide an indicative signal on a carrier detect output pin. If the signal strength is above a preset threshold level, then a signal of an appropriate logic level is developed at the carrier detect output pin. The carrier detect output pin typically is coupled to an input of a microprocessor, which reads the logic level periodically.
There are several uses for the information gathered from the carrier detect signal. For example, a microprocessor in a base unit can use this information to determine whether the handunit is out-of-range, or not. Alternatively, a microprocessor in either a base unit or a handunit can use this information to determine if a specific channel is occupied.
Unfortunately, during the manufacturing process, an adjustment procedure must be performed on the analog carrier detect circuitry in order to ensure correct triggering at the specified thresholds. This adjustment procedure tends to be difficult, time consuming, and often causes the detection of the RF carrier to be unreliable.

Microcomputer-based carrier detection system for a cordless telephone by comparing an output signal which contains signals no higher in frequency with a frequency threshold value


Provided herein are methods for altering a health state of a subject by administering a wellness intervention to subjects found to have quantitative measures of microbial genera in the subject's microbiome that are associated with undesirable health states. Undesirable health states can be inferred by executing models that predict health states based on the quantitative measures, such as relative amounts of selected microbial genera to all microbes. Models are created by statistical methods that analyze datasets that include, for each of a plurality of subjects, verified health states and quantitative measures of each of a plurality of microbes classified at designated taxonomic levels, e.g., genus level.

A goal of understanding microbiome studies is to reveal mechanisms of host genetic and environmental factors that shape the human microbiome. Insights gained from these types of studies may contribute to the development of improved health outcomes, including therapeutic strategies for modulating the microbiome composition in human health and disease states. However, despite significant public interest in this area of scientific investigation, conclusive data linking detection and causality remain elusive. Consequently, microbiome health claims study is fraught with correlative claims that are difficult to substantiate or link to a mechanism.

Indices of microbial diversity relating to health


A method of assembling a wind turbine tower is provided, wherein the method includes providing a plurality of tower members having a top end and a bottom end, and coupling the bottom end of a first tower member to the top end of a second tower member such that the bottom end of the first tower member is interlocked within at least a portion of the top end of the second tower member. The method also includes coupling at least one support member to each of the plurality of tower members.

This invention relates generally to wind turbine towers, and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus for assembling wind turbine towers.
At least some known wind turbine towers include a plurality of sections coupled on top of one another to form the tower. Generally, adjacent sections are welded around a perimeter of a joint defined between the adjoining sections to form a unitary structure. Often, however, the welds may be subjected to flexural stresses caused by loads within the tower or induced to the tower during turbine operation. Specifically, high winds acting on the tower may cause increased flexural stresses, and/or the weight of the turbine at the top of the tower and/or the operation of the turbine may induce high cycle vibrational flexural stresses within the tower. Over time, a combination of these factors may cause the welds to be subjected to high tensile stresses, which may increase the probability of cracks initiating and propagating at the welds. Weld cracking may reduce the life span of the turbine tower, which in-turn may increase costs associated with maintaining the tower.

Methods and apparatus for assembling wind turbine towers


A tracking system is provided for tracking an objects. A first and a second trackable member each have an inertial sensor unit producing at least orientation-based data. A processing unit receives the orientation-based data from the trackable members. The processing unit has an orientation calculator calculating an orientation of the second trackable member with respect to the first trackable member from the orientation-based data of both said trackable members, whereby the processing unit calculates an orientation of the objects. A method is also provided.

Tracking of surgical instruments or tools is an integral part of computer-assisted surgery (hereinafter CAS). The tools are tracked for position and/or orientation in such a way that information pertaining to bodily parts is obtained. The information is then used in various interventions (e.g., orthopedic surgery, neurological surgery) with respect to the body, such as bone alterations, implant positioning, incisions and the like during surgery.
The tracking systems may use different technologies, such as mechanical, acoustical, magnetic, optical and RF tracking. Depending on the technology used, different types of trackable members are fixed, permanently or temporarily, to the item that needs to be tracked. For instance, during Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery, trackable members are fixed to the limbs and to the different surgical instruments, and these trackable members are tracked by the tracking system. The CAS system calculates position and orientation data associated with the tracking, and the information displayed by the computer is used by the surgeon to visualize the position of the instrument(s) being manipulated with respect to the limbs, or in numerical values.
Two types of tracking systems are commonly used. The active tracking systems provide a transmitter as trackable member on the tool to be tracked, which transmitter emits signals to be received by a processor of the CAS system, which will calculate the position and/or orientation of the tool as a function of the signals received. The transmitters of the active tracking systems are powered, for instance by being wired to the CAS system or by being provided with an independent power source, so as to emit signals.
Passive tracking systems do not provide active transmitters on the tools as trackable members. The CAS system associated with passive tracking has an optical sensor apparatus provided to visually detect optical elements on the tools. The optical elements are passive, whereby no power source is associated therewith.
In order to obtain values for position and/or orientation, the optical elements must be in the line of sight of the optical sensor apparatus. Accordingly, with passive tracking systems, surgery takes place in a given orientation as a function of the required visibility between the optical sensor apparatus and the optical elements.
The trackable members currently used, whether active or passive, have a noticeable size depending on the technology used. For an electromagnetic system, a casing is wired to the CAS system and is secured to the instrument or to the patient. For an optical system, a trackable member generally comprises at least three optical elements. For instance, the optical elements are light sources wired to the CAS system and forming a scalene triangle. The light sources can be individually fixed or assembled on a base. In this second construction, the assembly is large and obstructive.
As an alternative, passive reflector spheres or patches can be used instead of light sources, and a light source is used to illuminate them (in the infrared spectrum).
Some factors must be considered when selecting a type of tracking system: the presence of wires in sterile zones for active trackable members; a line of sight required for navigation when using optical tracking; the size of the trackable members in order to deliver the required precision during surgery; the necessity for the surgeon to visualize a computer screen for intraoperative alignment information; the necessity for the surgeon to digitize landmarks on bones in order to build coordinate systems; the difficulty in integrating current optical, electromagnetic or radio-frequency sensors in disposable instruments (such as cutting guides) because of their volume.


The present disclosure relates to Emetine Auristatin compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising such compounds, and methods for using such compounds or pharmaceutical compositions.

Emetine is a tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid found predominantly in the roots of the plant species Carapichea ipecacuanha (Brot.) L. Andersson, otherwise known as Psychotria ipecacuanha (Brot.) Stokes, and named for its emetic properties.1a-c Earlier it was also used as an amoebicidal agent until the mid-20th century.2 More recently it was found to inhibit protein, DNA, and RNA synthesis and therefore non-specifically cytotoxic to all cells with activity in the NCI 60 Cancer cell screen (G150 of 27 nM).3a-c
Emetine was found to inhibit Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-kB) signaling; dysregulation of this signaling pathway is connected to diseases including cancer.4 In addition, emetine promotes apoptosis in malignant cells by upregulation of the Bcl-xS splicing variant.4a Furthermore it has been shown that both the (R) configuration at C-1′ and the methoxy group at C-7′ are essential for the biological activity of emetine and that alkylation of the secondary amine at position N-2′ causes loss of activity.5a-c In more targeted therapy studies, derivatives with thiourea, urea, sulfonamide, dithiocarbamate, carbamates, amides and peptides at the N-2′ position have been investigated as prodrugs to be activated in either a lower pH environment of a tumor, proteolysis by proteases fibroblast activation protein (FAP), or the Prostate-Specific antigen (PSA). These derivatives were found to generally reduce emetine's biological activity, with the dithiocarbamates being further evaluated as less toxic analogues of emetine and the peptides as prodrugs for prostate cancer treatments.6a-e
The present inventors investigated the construction of peptides from the N-2′ position of emetine.7 The biological activity of proline-emetine analogues has been reported and found to be 150-200 fold less cytotoxic than emetine.6d
Citation of any reference in this section is not to be construed as an admission that such reference is prior art to the present disclosure.

Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State University


The invention relates to fluid flow paths and fluid connectors for use with detachable containers that can be seated in an infusate caddy for use in a dialysis machine. The detachable containers can contain infusates or other solutes or materials such as disinfectants or cleaners, and can be conveniently seated in the infusate caddy. The detachable containers can be removed from the infusate caddy for restocking, cleaning, or resupply, as needed. The infusate caddy can be positioned or seated in a receiving compartment of a dialysis machine, and can also be removed, as needed. The fluid path and fluid connectors of the present invention provide the required fluid fittings, valve arrangements, pumps, and paddle assemblies for using the infusate caddy.

Dialysis systems require specified amounts of solutions to be used during each dialysis session, such as sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and cation infusates. Further, many cations, such as potassium, calcium and magnesium, can cross the dialyzer and be removed from a patient during dialysis. These cations must be added back into the dialysate to maintain the concentration of these cations at a desired level. Sodium bicarbonate can be used during dialysis as a buffer to control the pH of the dialysate and to treat acidosis by delivering bicarbonate across the dialysis membrane to the patient receiving a treatment. The amounts of sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and other cations added to dialysate should be closely monitored and controlled. Further, the amounts of each of these solutions can vary considerably.
Systems and methods for ensuring appropriate fluid lines and fittings are used for adding and removing solutes to dialysate is required. In order to facilitate use of dialysis outside of a standard dialysis setting or by personnel having varying levels of skill, a method is needed that can ensure that each of the materials to be added to the dialysis system is connected to the correct pumps, valves, and connectors of the dialysis system. Further, there is a need for a system that can ensure that all necessary materials for dialysis are connected to the dialysis system and at the correct locations, allowing the proper amounts of each of the solutions to be added to the dialysate at the proper points in the dialysis system.
There is a further need for a method and system that can ensure proper fittings and connections of a dialysis system after a dialysis session is complete. There is a need for a system that can allow users of varying skill levels to easily configure the dialysis session including the necessary fittings and connections for disinfection, and ensure that the dialysis system can be used outside of a standard dialysis clinical setting, such as in a patient's home.
There is further a need for a system of fluid lines, pumps and valves that are configured so that they are attachable to an infusate caddy for use in dialysis. There is a need for the system to be configured to ensure that the proper containers connect to the proper fluid lines, valves and pumps.

Fluid connectors and fluid flow paths for an infusate caddy


A three-phase vacuum interrupter switch assembly for power distribution systems comprises an outer case having at least one window, a plurality of internal disconnect switch assemblies, and a plurality of vacuum interrupter bottle switch assemblies within the case. Each vacuum interrupter bottle switch is coupled in electrical series with a corresponding internal disconnect switch assembly. Because the open/closed state of a bottle switch is not directly observable owing to its sealed interior, a direct visible indication of the state of the three-phase vacuum interrupter switch assembly is provided by a visually detectable contact rod for each internal disconnect switch that is visible through the case window. To prevent potentially serious damage caused by arcing between the contacts of the internal disconnect switch, the internal disconnect switch is prevented from opening or closing when the bottle switches are closed. The case interior is preferably free of oil and/or SF6 gas.

Electric utility power distribution systems are frequently constructed underground for a variety of reasons ranging from objections to the above-ground aesthetics, the premium of above-ground space in dense urban locations, and safety concerns. Accordingly, power distribution systems heretofore constructed of poles, wires, and pole-mounted switches and transformers are being superseded and even replaced by underground systems in underground installations.
Whether used in overhead or underground locations within a power distribution system, the main function of current-interrupting switches is to isolate desired sections to allow for maintenance. While overhead space is relatively open and unrestricted, space in underground installations is at a premium. Underground installations (which are also referred to as "vaults") are relatively small and need to have enough space for all the necessary material, as well as enough room for lineman to safely work inside.
For many vaults, switch installation requires using an equipment access hole which may require lifting a heavy cover and can be costly. A switch that can fit through a maintenance hole (sometimes referred to as an "access hole" or a "manhole"), however, can be very cost effective. Many switches currently used in underground vaults contain oil or SF6 gas as an electrical insulation medium in order to make the switch small. It is possible that a switch containing oil or SF6 gas can be made small enough to fit through a maintenance hole; however, rising environmental and safety concerns discourage the use of oil and SF6 gas, which can each be flammable and/or explosive while presenting environmental hazards when leakage occurs or when emissions are created. Thus, utility companies are trying to move away from switches with oil or SF6 gas.
Three-phase vacuum switches have been manufactured under the Elastimold trademark by Thomas & Betts Corporation (Memphis, Tenn.) that fit through a maintenance hole, and utilize vacuum interrupter bottle switches as the current-interrupting switch. The vacuum interrupter bottle switches utilized in the Elastimold switches are molded inside a rubber housing and surrounded with a thin metal sheet. Vacuum interrupter bottle switches are manufactured so that the inside components cannot be seen. The only indication as to whether or not the switch is opened or closed is the position of an exterior handle which is not the most direct type of visible evidence one wishes to have when dealing with such high voltages and currents. It is not possible to determine whether the switch is truly open or closed because the movable contacts are hidden inside.
Three-phase vacuum switches have been developed to fit through a maintenance hole, and utilize vacuum interrupter switches as the current-interrupting switch. However, they do not incorporate a visible disconnect switch as a safety feature. It is not possible to determine whether a vacuum interrupter bottle switch is open or closed because the movable contacts associated with the switches are contained within the sealed body of the bottle.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Three phase vacuum interrupter switch for high voltage distribution systems


An intelligent shelving system uses touch sensors to operate power-operated, adjustable shelves. Touch sensors also are used as limit switches to control shelf motion, to monitor the encroachment of shelved items on shelves, to detect spills, and to control other related devices and functions, such as shelf lighting. Display units are provided to provide information relating to objects stored in the shelving system and to the operation of the shelving system.

Shelving systems are commonly used for the efficient display or storage of consumer and other items. In their most basic form, shelving systems use fixed (non-adjustable) shelves. Such systems necessarily are designed with sufficient spacing between shelves to accommodate the largest or tallest object expected to be stored therein. A considerable storage volume can be wasted if such a system is used to store items smaller than those considered in establishing the design. Such wasted storage volume could be reduced by reducing the spacing between shelves, but only at the expense of no longer providing capacity to store larger items.
Manually adjustable shelving systems can decrease these inefficiencies by allowing the user to set shelf spacing as necessary for a particular application and to adjust the shelf spacing as needs change. However, manually adjustable systems typically require that items borne on a shelf be removed from the shelf before adjustments can be made. Power operated shelving systems can overcome this problem by allowing the user to adjust shelf spacing on demand, without first clearing a shelf of its contents. However, power operated shelving systems using conventional mechanical switch control interfaces also have limitations. For instance, mechanical switches typically include internal moving parts which are at least somewhat exposed to the environment. As such, contaminants, such as dirt or moisture, can enter the switch mechanism and increase the risk of malfunction or the severity of mechanical wear. Also, the discontinuities and crevices associated with mechanical switches can make such switches and the areas around them difficult to clean.
Further, mechanical switches typically have large profiles which makes it difficult to integrate them into the shelving system's overall design. For example, mechanical switches typically required a dedicated switch panel which might not easily be integrated into a shelving unit and might even need to be mounted remotely from the shelving unit. Moreover, because mechanical switches generally perform only a single function, a system wherein many functions need to be performed requires the use of a like number of such switches. Thus, the use of mechanical switches is disadvantageous in shelving systems wherein space conservation is an important consideration.


The present disclosure provides a drilling machine configuration and related method that avoids drilling mud from contaminating hydraulic fluid that flows through the drive system of the machine. The disclosed system and method provides a drilling mud anti-contamination system that requires infrequent service and a system wherein the service can be quickly and easily performed.

Directional boring machines and methods for making underground holes are known. A typical directional boring machine is generally configured to drive into the ground a series of drill rods joined end-to-end to form a drill string. At the end of the drill string is a rotating drilling tool. Typically, the rotation of the drill tool is driven by a mud motor or by axially rotating the drill string itself. Various techniques and configurations can be used to provide steering of the drill string during boring operations. Improvements in directional boring machines, drill strings for use with such machines, and methods of directional drilling are needed.


An index associated with a database is dynamically processed in an information retrieval system to create a set of questions for use when processing a data inquiry from a user. The index, a structured guide used when searching the database, has different information domains. After one of these domains is selected, a particular order of the index categories within the selected domain is determined, typically by referring to the order lookup table within the index. A script corresponds to the selected domain. Within the script, there are questions corresponding to each index category within the selected domain. These questions are dynamically used to prompt the user. Only the questions corresponding to active index categories are arranged into the set of questions having a question set order corresponding to the particular order of the index categories. In an iterative process, the first question is identified and used to prompt the user to select a term from a scaled down vocabulary of terms (i.e., only those terms associated with the first question and corresponding first index category). Upon selecting the term, a search of the database is performed by the search engine module based upon the selected term. If there is too much information returned from the search, the next question is identified and the iterative process is repeated.

At the dawn of civilization, cave dwellers may have sat within the dark confines of their cave and scrawled pictorial figures on the walls to record information by the flickering light of their fires. The amount of information recorded by these early historians was probably limited by the amount of space on the stone walls of their cave. With such a limited amount of recorded information, cave dwellers typically searched for information by visually scanning the walls.
Later, Egyptians used papyrus as a writing medium on which to record information. The known universe of information was larger and more information was deemed worthy of recording. As a result of the increased amount of recorded information, searching for specific information began to become more laborious and difficult.
During the Dark Ages, religious orders such as monasteries served as learning centers. These monasteries also served as the archives for much of the recorded information during the time period. Many monks spent their lives recording information into books. For very important information, such as religious texts, some monks hand copied the information and intricately illustrated the information. Again, searching for information became more difficult as the amount of recorded information grew.
As a result of the industrial revolution, what was considered to be the limits of the known universe of information exploded. The amount of recorded information grew at an astounding pace through the space age with the boundaries of human thought and existence being pushed out farther and farther.
As computers were introduced into our society, more and more information has been recorded and made relatively accessible. The global Internet provides an almost unthinkable amount of recorded information. This amount seems to exponentially increase each day. For example, the World Wide Web (the Web) is a portion of the global Internet having hypertext-enabled pieces of information. A few years ago, the Web contained mainly information that was focused in some niche areas, such as science, UNIX, and UFOs. Today, information on the Web comes close to covering all major subject areas and includes information in multimedia formats, such as video and audio information, in addition to a traditional text format. Despite the vast amount of recorded information online, the information on the Web continues to grow at approximately twenty percent per month, according to some commentators.
With such information accessible via a computer and a modem, many people use the online resources of the Internet and the Web as sources of information. However, searching this vast amount of information can be problematic and vary time consuming. The proverbial phrase of finding a needle in a haystack gains new meaning in today's digital culture of endless numbers of Web sites and freely accessible data warehouses. Therefore, there is a need to find ways to efficiently search for and access the right information in a timely manner if we want to avoid frustration and information overload.
There are many ways of searching for information utilized by existing information retrieval systems. These searching methods usually depend on how the information is classified. Information within a database can be classified into hierarchical categories. This organizes the information in a vertical fashion, beginning at very high-level headings working down into lower-level headings. This is traditionally how most people have been trained to organize information. Some search engines on the Web, such as the YAHOO| searching tool found at the Internet address or universal resource location (URL) of http://www.yahoo.com, use this type of hierarchical categorization methodology to organize online information.
In an online example, new online information (in the form of a URL of a new Web site) is regularly added to the Web. Once Web search engines, such as the YAHOO| searching tool, are informed of the new online information, a human being usually classifies or organizes new information. The new information is classified by deciding the appropriate hierarchical heading with which to associate the new information. Unfortunately, this makes categorization of the new information subjective depending on who is actually doing the categorization. Subjective classification of information may lead to misclassified information. For example, a Web site author may believe their site should be classified under a popular hierarchical heading. The human being making the decision may believe the Web site is more appropriately classified under a less popular hierarchical heading. This may be confusing and frustrating to a user searching for information in this new Web site under the popular hierarchical heading.
Information can also be classified in a non-hierarchical or horizontal fashion for searching. Searching using horizontal classifications is similar to searching bottoms-up through information within the database looking for selected terms, also called keywords. One search engine tool that looks for selected terms is the ALTAVISTA search engine tool created by the Digital Equipment Corporation. The ALTAVISTA search engine tool can be found online at the URL of http://www.altavista.digital.com. The ALTAVISTA search engine tool employs a bottoms-up technique where a term is selected and the term is associated with various documents using an inverted index as a lookup table. The inverted index is essentially a table of documents and terms related to the documents. In this manner, horizontal classification supports content-based searching for documents based upon the term. However, horizontal classification does not usually lend itself to searching based upon the context of the term in a document.
Given the existing kinds of information retrieval systems and the vast amount of recorded information that is usually searched, there can be many problems encountered when trying to provide efficient information retrieval. One type of information retrieval system interacts with an inquiring party using scripted questions to efficiently retrieve information. For example, the inquiring party wants to access certain information within a database via the information retrieval system. In order to handle the inquiry for the desired information, the system usually provides large scripts of questions that are written to guide the inquiring party through an interactive process of finding the desired information from within the database. These scripts are usually static because the script is predetermined in what questions are asked and in what order they are asked. Because of the static nature of the script, the system prompts the inquiring party with each question in the static script according to a predetermined sequence.
Typically, a static script is created and maintained for each domain or grouping of information within the database. For example, if the database contains classified advertising information, the domains may include restaurants or automobiles. In other words, a domain is a highlevel category of the information in the database. A domain may have a corresponding static script which is used by the system in order to find the desired information associated with the domain.
A database usually includes more than one domain or grouping of information. A typical database of information may have over a thousand domains. As the database gets larger with more and more information, the number of domains continues to increase. Accordingly, as the number of domains increases, more static scripts must be created in order to search the database. Creating new static scripts can be time consuming. Additionally, the increasing number of static scripts for the increasing number of domains requires a larger and ever-increasing amount of valuable memory space within the system. As the number of domains increases, the memory requirements may become problematic and the need to create new static scripts for each domain can become burdensome.
Other problems may exist when searching databases with static scripts written for each information domain. For example, the order of questions in a static script may be inappropriate to the inquiry, or one or more questions in a static script may be superfluous. In a given inquiry, the first question in a static script may not be appropriate as the first question because it does not help to focus the search of the database. In such a situation, it is undesirable to ask this first question in the beginning of the static script. To remedy this situation, the order of the questions can be rearranged. However, in order to rearrange the order of questions in the static script, the entire contents of the static script are usually viewed and edited offline to implement the different order of questions. In other words, the whole static script must be laboriously rebuilt offline, which is burdensome and time consuming.
What if there is nothing in the database relative to one of the questions in the static script? As previously described, the system prompts the inquiring party with the questions within the static script according to a predetermined sequence. This can be potentially confusing for the inquiring party if there is no information within the database relative to a question because the system is basically asking about non-existent information. For example, one domain within the database may be related to restaurants. The static script related to the restaurant domain is used to prompt the inquiring party. The static script related to the restaurant domain may include a series of standard questions on restaurants in a fixed order. These questions may include questions on what kind of cuisine, what operating hours are kept (such as Monday through Friday or Saturday), and what amenities are desired (such as valet parking or smoking sections). Typically, these questions are asked in the same sequence each time someone requests information about restaurants. However, if there was no information on restaurant amenities, a system using static scripts would still ask the inquiring party about what amenities are desired. Typically, the system would indicate there is no information about restaurant amenities after prompting the inquiring party about what restaurant amenities are desired or return a null set from the database. Yet, merely asking the question without regard to the available information in the database wastes the inquiring party's time, is a drain upon the resources of the information retrieval system, and may return no information at all. Asking questions without regard to the available information in the database can be especially annoying when repeated questions are asked when no information is available.
Another problem arises when information retrieval system processes inquiries in a voice format. A voice formatted inquiry is typically an inquiry received by the system from an inquiring party who uses a conventional telephone or other telephonic device to interact with the system. When the system processes the voice inquiry, the system typically performs some kind of voice recognition on the voice inquiry. Many voice recognition techniques rely on a vocabulary of words or terms that can be recognized. By comparing the voice inquiry to the vocabulary of terms, the system is able to recognize certain words from the voice inquiry as terms from the vocabulary of terms. However, if this vocabulary is large, the voice recognition technique is usually slower and more prone to inaccuracies.
In summary, there is a need for a system for providing a flexible set of questions within a script used when processing requests for information that (1) more efficiently processes an inquiry, (2) requires less memory when compared to static scripts for each domain, (3) can be easily modified without rebuilding the entire script, (4) is dynamically created according to what kind of information is desired and what information is available in the database, and (5) minimizes the voice recognition processing time and inaccuracies.

Dynamically processing an index to create an ordered set of questions