Abstract: A layout structure and a method for reducing audible noise generated by a flexible printed circuit are provided. The layout structure includes a flexible printed circuit and a piezoelectric element. The flexible printed circuit is disposed with respect to an axis. When an alternating voltage/current is applied across the piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element expands and contracts alternately. The piezoelectric element is located on the flexible printed circuit, and an angle between the axis and a side of the piezoelectric element is less than 90 degrees.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing an integrated circuit in a target electronic application, wherein the apparatus comprises a socket for receiving the integrated circuit, a modified commercial electronic product which models the target electronic application, and an electrical connection between the socket and the modified commercial electronic product. The method of testing an integrated circuit comprises placing an integrated circuit in a socket that is coupled to a circuit board substantially identical to that of a circuit board configured to include the integrated circuit, but which does not include the integrated circuit, and testing the integrated circuit. A method of making such a tester mechanically attaching a socket to a modified commercial electronic product and electrically connencting an integrated circuit and the modified commercial electronic product. This approach allows for cheaper, more comprehensive, and more accurate testing of an integrated circuit.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-functional peripheral apparatus to be connected to a host. The apparatus comprises a connection module, a plurality of peripheral modules, and a control module. The connection module provides a transmission interface to receive a peripheral output signal from the host. Each of the peripheral modules performs a specific peripheral function. The peripheral modules further comprise a data storage memory to store at least one peripheral driver. The control module receives the peripheral output signal from the connection module and produces a corresponding peripheral control command to control and to enable the selected peripheral module specified in the peripheral output signal to perform the corresponding specific peripheral function. When the apparatus is connected to the host, the host allows the control module to install the peripheral driver into the host so that the host employs the driver to drive the selected peripheral modules.

Abstract: It has been discovered that the Chinese fruit known as shanzha, and extracts and purified component derived therefrom, can be administered orally to animals to reduce levels of cholesterol in the blood. The mechanism of action is believed to include the "up-regulation" of LDL receptors on cell surfaces and inhibition of transcription factors for sterol responsive genes. Examples demonstrate the isolation of active components and extracts, potential mechanisms of action in animals and cell culture, and conditions promoting retention of activity during storage.