Abstract: A communication system uses a differential edge modulation scheme having one of four or more values and a clock pulse is also encoded in each unit interval. A four-valued encoding may be as follows: prior to each unit interval, two signals are both at the same value; at the start of the unit interval, a first one of the signals is transitioned to indicate a first bit of the symbol; after a selected one of two delay periods that are less than the unit interval, the other signal to is transitioned indicate a second bit of the symbol; after this transition, both signals are again at the same value. The transitioning, at the start of the unit interval, provides an edge that may be extracted and used a timing reference.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: A brush guard assembly having left and right wing portions supported by vertical struts attached to the frame of an automotive vehicle, which wing portions have inserts that are attached to upper and lower bar extrusions by screws. The screws are located through the rear of the brush guard assembly so as to not be visible from the front. The wing portions are cast aluminum and the upper and lower bar extrusions are extruded aluminum.

Abstract: An animal headgate including a pair of neckbars attached to the gates in such a manner that the neckbars are movable and adjustable independently from the movement of or adjustment of the gates. The neckbars are biased to pivot away from each other. Contact of the neckbar lever with a locking mechanism acts to overcome the biasing force and positions and locks the neckbars in a predetermined desired spaced relationship when the headgate is in the latch position. When the locking mechanism is released, the neckbars immediately release from the animal's neck while the shoulder bars gradually release from the animal's shoulders as the gates open.

Abstract: An animal headgate having a forward portion and a rearward portion on a stationary frame (11), having a pair of gate pivot members (19) pivotably connected to said frame (11), and a pair of headgates (13) attached to said gate pivot members (19), said headgates (13) being operably movable among receive, latch and release positions. The headgate further includes a pair of first animal securement means (14) attached to said headgates for substantially restraining movement of an animal, and a pair of second animal securement means (15) positioned forward of said first animal securement means (14) to further restrain movement of said animal, said second animal securement means (15) being movably attached to the headgates and operably movable among receive, latch and release positions.