Abstract: A method for forming a polymer-filler composite having advantageous bound filler content, the method comprising (a) providing a guayule cement; (b) introducing particulate filler to the guayule cement to form a solution masterbatch; and (c) desolventizing the solution masterbatch to form a polymer-filler composite.

Abstract: A bumper system includes a high-strength metal B-shaped beam with miter-cut end sections, a front center energy absorber, and a pair of energy-absorbing end pieces that nestingly engage front outer ends of the beam. By this arrangement, the bumper system with energy absorbers forms an impact system capable of providing good corner impact resistance. The energy-absorbing end pieces act as a low-cost and lightweight extension to the beam, and absorb energy so as to lessen intrusion and decrease the energy that is transmitted into the frame rails of the vehicle.

Abstract: A gateway provides for the processing of transactions in a heterogeneous database environment using LU6.2 two-phase commit involving a database, supporting a first communication protocol, and an LU6.2 transaction manager associated with a database supporting a second communication protocol. The gateway includes a first protocol manager for providing communication between the gateway and the database according to the first communication protocol. The gateway also includes an LU6.2 protocol manager for providing LU6.2 communication between the gateway and the LU6.2 two-phase commit transaction manager.

Abstract: An integrally moulded plastic boat hull structure is provided with a plurality of threaded inserts for securing associated boat components. Each of the threaded inserts is moulded into the boat hull structure through an intermediate insert which reinforces the hull and directs the localized forces away from the threaded insert to an enlarged boat hull region proximate the threaded insert. Where the boat hull is formed of low density polyethylene, the intermediate reinforcement member will be formed of a higher density polyethylene, to provide both a structural and molecular bond in the moulded hull. By reinforcing the location of the threaded insert and spreading its lead over a greater region, a highly localized stress point is avoided.

Abstract: Subsoil treatment apparatus (1) comprises an impact striking head (2) associated with one end (3) of an impact transmission block (4) which has an internal chamber (5) connectable to a source of compressed air, and a hollow, tubular, ground-piercing spike (6) projecting from an opposite end (7) of the block (4) and to which impacts are transmitted from the block (4), the end (8) of the spike (6) associated with the block (4) being in air flow communication with the chamber (5), and the opposite end (9) of the spike (6) being provided with at least one air discharge aperture (10). The invention also includes a truck (28) carrying multiple apparatus (1).