Abstract: Techniques are presented for applying fine-grained client-specific rules to divide (e.g., chunk) data statements to achieve cost reduction and/or failure rate reduction associated with executing the data statements over a subject dataset. Data statements for the subject dataset are received from a client. Statement attributes derived from the data statements are processed with respect to fine-grained rules and/or other client-specific data to determine whether a data statement chunking scheme is to be applied to the data statements. If a data statement chunking scheme is to be applied, further analysis is performed to select a data statement chunking scheme. A set of data operations are generated based at least in part on the selected data statement chunking scheme. The data operations are issued for execution over the subject dataset. The results from the data operations are consolidated in accordance with the selected data statement chunking scheme and returned to the client.

Abstract: Techniques are presented for applying fine-grained client-specific rules to divide (e.g., chunk) data statements to achieve cost reduction and/or failure rate reduction associated with executing the data statements over a subject dataset. Data statements for the subject dataset are received from a client. Statement attributes derived from the data statements are processed with respect to fine-grained rules and/or other client-specific data to determine whether a data statement chunking scheme is to be applied to the data statements. If a data statement chunking scheme is to be applied, further analysis is performed to select a data statement chunking scheme. A set of data operations are generated based at least in part on the selected data statement chunking scheme. The data operations are issued for execution over the subject dataset. The results from the data operations are consolidated in accordance with the selected data statement chunking scheme and returned to the client.

Abstract: Techniques are presented for applying fine-grained client-specific rules to divide (e.g., chunk) data statements to achieve cost reduction and/or failure rate reduction associated with executing the data statements over a subject dataset. Data statements for the subject dataset are received from a client. Statement attributes derived from the data statements are processed with respect to fine-grained rules and/or other client-specific data to determine whether a data statement chunking scheme is to be applied to the data statements. If a data statement chunking scheme is to be applied, further analysis is performed to select a data statement chunking scheme. A set of data operations are generated based at least in part on the selected data statement chunking scheme. The data operations are issued for execution over the subject dataset. The results from the data operations are consolidated in accordance with the selected data statement chunking scheme and returned to the client.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved swivel joint for use as part of a cable-guided fishing assembly. The swivel joint contains a bearing assembly comprising a series of ball bearings partially encased by an inner and outer race. During a cable-guided fishing operation, the inner and outer race exert a shearing, rather than compression, force on the ball bearing due to the unique configuration of the bearing assembly. This unique configuration increases the strength of the bearing assembly, and the corresponding strength of the swivel joint, without necessitating an increase in the outer diameter of the swivel joint.

Abstract: A cable hanger for use in a cable-guided fishing operation is disclosed. The disclosed invention provides a cable hanger in which a specially-shaped hanger body is connected to a handle having a cable groove running through it. The cable groove allows for the centerline of a cable to run through the centerline of the handle, thereby allowing for a straight-line pull to be exerted on the cable through the cable hanger. The specially-shaped hanger body is operatively connected to a specially-shaped body cover by a plurality of links. In this way, the hanger body and cover form a “clamshell” arrangement in which the cover can rotate from an open position to a closed position around the cable. When in the closed position, the cover and body are bolted together along the side of the cover and body opposite the links.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved spear head overshot. The spear head overshot is particularly useful as part of a cable-guided fishing assembly. The spear head overshot essentially comprises one or more pivot lugs, the pivot lugs comprising jaw sections and release point sections, an actuator slide, a wave spring, a pivot mandrel, a screw attached to the pivot mandrel, and a compression spring threaded over the screw. In operation, a spear head is inserted into the spear head overshot until the spear head passes the jaw sections of the pivot lugs, at which time the spear head is locked into place. To release the spear head, the release point sections of the pivot lugs are manually forced inward. Simultaneously, the jaw sections of the pivot lugs are forced outward, thereby allowing the spear head to be removed from the spear head overshot. In a cable-guided fishing operation, this process can be repeated as often as necessary.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods, apparatus and solutions for cryopreserving microscopic biological materials for biologically extended periods of time. The method comprises treating a suspension of biological material, in an appropriate buffer, with a cryoprotectant or combination of cryoprotectants which raises the glass transition temperature range of the sample. One or more dry protectants may be added to the cryosolution. The cryosolution is then nebulized and rapidly cooled with novel apparatus, dried by molecular distillation, stored and then rehydrated in a buffer prior to its use. The solutions comprise novel mixtures of cryoprotectants.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods, apparatus and solutions for cryopreserving microscopic biological materials for biologically extended periods of time. The method comprises treating a suspension of biological material, in an appropriate buffer, with a cryoprotectant or combination of cryoprotectants which raises the glass transition temperature range of the sample. One or more dry protectants may be added to the cryosolution. The cryosolution is then nebulized and rapidly cooled with novel apparatus, dried by molecular distillation, stored and then rehydrated in a buffer prior to its use. The solutions comprise novel mixtures of cryoprotectants.

Abstract: An electromagnetic projectile launcher is provided with an insulating cartridge having an internal pressure chamber and an aperture for receiving a projectile assembly. A fuse element within the pressure chamber is electrically connected to a pair of generally parallel conductive launcher rails. Current flow through the fuse element causes it to explode and create a high pressure plasma within the pressure chamber. This high pressure plasma forces the projectile assembly to accelerate away from the cartridge and later serves as a means for conducting current between the conductive rails and for propelling the projectile assembly along the rails.

Abstract: An armature for electromagnetic launchers is provided with multiple conductive fibers which form a multi-contact interface with the launcher rails. The fibers are attached to an insulating armature support and can extend across the launcher bore or be attached to contact faces of a trailing conductive chevron. Transposition of the fibers reduces electrical skin effect within the armature.