Abstract: A method for measuring the performance of fund managers. The method comprises collecting quantitative performance data on the fund managers within a predefined service sector, comparing the quantitative performance of the fund managers against a chosen benchmark over a predefined period, calculating the probability of randomly selecting an outperforming fund manager from the group of fund managers and determining the probability of selecting a number of fund managers in a recommended shortlist who have outperformed the benchmark. The method is particularly applied in circumstances where a shortlist of fund managers has been created by a consultant for recommendation to fund trustees as it allows for an objective analysis of the consultant's recommendations.

Abstract: A method of placing a grating material at an optimum distance from a sensor that will produce a reference spectrum on that sensor. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a device with a diffraction grating end will protrude into the empty lens well of a camera and with the camera inserted into a telescope eyepiece holder will focus both a image of an object, that the telescope is pointed to, and its spectrum onto the light sensor in the camera. This dual image, called a reference spectrum, allows the separation between the image of the object and a point in the image of its spectrum to be determined quickly. This separation distance to the spectral point within the spectrum is then a referenced distance. Once a reference distance is known it is then used to determine the wavelength of any other point or spectral line within the spectrum.

Abstract: A tanning device is disclosed. The tanning device comprises an elliptically-shaped conic reflector assembly comprising (1) a lighting element assembly emitting ultraviolet light waves, the lighting element assembly mounted at the vertex of the elliptically-shaped conic reflector assembly; (2) a reflector wall, the reflector wall comprising a reflective inner surface; and (3) at least one axis-directed reflective end portion, said reflector wall and said at least one axis-directed reflective end portion directing a plurality of said light waves axially towards and through a light filter mounted on a filter frame assembly positioned proximate to the base of said elliptically-shaped conic reflector assembly.

Abstract: The invention provides novel 1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine compounds, such as those represented by formula (I): their use as medicaments, particularly in platelet aggregation disorders, compositions containing them and processes for their preparation.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to novel means and methods for nucleic acid analysis and detection. More particularly, the present invention relates to a set of oligonucleotide probes, wherein two or more probes, in combination, can specifically detect a target polynucleotide and wherein different combinations of probes provide specificity for detecting and distinguishing different target polynucleotides. The invention also relates to methods for designing such combinations of oligonucleotide probes by way of gene sequence analyses that are preferably carried out using a digital computer, and to methods for interpreting the results of tests using such probe combinations.

Abstract: A process of selectively removing layers of a thermal barrier coating system from a surface of a component. A thermal barrier coating system of interest comprises an inner metallic bond coat layer, an outer metallic bond coat layer that is less dense than the inner metallic bond coat layer, and a ceramic topcoat having vertical cracks therethrough. The process involves directing a jet of liquid at the component to simultaneously remove the topcoat and the outer metallic bond coat layer without removing the inner metallic bond coat layer.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus in which movement of a weight by the user generates a vibration which acts on the muscles being exercised.

Abstract: A process of selectively removing layers of a thermal barrier coating system from a surface of a component. A thermal barrier coating system of interest comprises an inner metallic bond coat layer, an outer metallic bond coat layer that is less dense than the inner metallic bond coat layer, and a ceramic topcoat having vertical cracks therethrough. The process involves directing a jet of liquid at the component to simultaneously remove the topcoat and the outer metallic bond coat layer without removing the inner metallic bond coat layer.

Abstract: The invention provides novel 1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine compounds, their use as medicaments, compositions containing them and processes for their preparation.

Abstract: Gene expression in normal unexercised hearts; chronically exercised, minimimally hypertrophied hearts; and hearts with hypertrophy due to renovascular hypertension is described. Methods of screening compounds for potential hypertrophic effects on cardiac muscle are provided.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for removing a ball valve is provided. The ball valve removal tool provides a handle sliding along the length of a shaft. One end of the shaft is secured within an interior cavity of a ball valve while the opposite end of the shaft defines a stop member. By providing a manual sliding force to the handle, the handle impacts the stop member and transmits the force to the ball valve. The direction of the force is along the shaft of the removal tool and disengages the ball valve from the ball valve housing.