Abstract: An image coding method includes the steps of producing a complexity normalizing signal for respective macro blocks based on a complexity in a space domain with regard to an input image, producing a zero coefficient sum by performing a discrete cosine transform operation on the input image and counting the discrete cosine transform coefficients from -1 to +1, producing a zero coefficient normalizing value for respective macro blocks in accordance with the zero coefficient sum; producing a transient weight signal for respective macro blocks in accordance with the zero coefficient sum and a predetermined compression ratio, and summing the complexity normalizing signal, the zero coefficient normalizing value and the transient weight signal so as to produce the scale factor. The quantization step size of the discrete cosine transform coefficients is controlled in a macro block in accordance with the scale factor.

Abstract: A shelf track lighting for improving illumination of devices such as refrigerators or freezers. Coupled to the shelf is a lamp and a supporting brackets. The brackets engage with vertically positioned standards which are mounted to the rear wall of the device. Power is provided to the lamp through the standards and the brackets so that the lamp may be illuminated when the shelf and lamp levels are adjusted.

Abstract: The invention relates to preformed, shaped, refractory, heat-insulating articles for use in an expendable sidewall lining of a molten metal handling vessel. The lining has a face at part of which is exposed a zone of matter of high resistance to erosion by molten metal and accompanying slag. The vessel may be e.g. a tundish for use in the continuous casting of molten metal e.g. steel.