Abstract: Disclosed is an improvement in a rubber roller as a developing roller in a electrophotographic printer of which the silicone rubber forming the rubber layer on and around a metallic core mandrel is electrically semiconductive. The printing characteristics and abrasion resistance of the rubber roller to ensure good durability of the rubber roller in printing services can be greatly improved by the irradiation treatment of the rubber surface with ultraviolet light having principal wavelengths of 253.7 nm and 184.9 nm in an irradiation dose of 1.2 to 76 J/cm.sup.2, preferably, in an oxygen-containing atmosphere to form an ultraviolet-hardened surface layer of which the rubber surface has a specified surface rough-ness.

Abstract: A method for optimizing the breathing ability of an intubated patient is based on an evaluation of the expirational flow characteristics of an endotracheal tube connector. It has been found that an increase in the amount of work required for the expirational portion of the breathing cycle while minimizing the inspirational work of a patient improves the patient's blood chemistry and the absorption of oxygen and/or medication by the lung.The method may be obtained by using an improved connector which includes an annular gas inlet and an annular gas outlet which share a common longitudinal axis. The inlet has an inside diameter which is about 2-1/2 to 3 times greater than the inside diameter of the outlet and is adapted to receive a flexible tube having an outside diameter which is approximately the same as the inside diameter inserted therein.

Abstract: Disclosed is a swimming exerciser mainly including a main frame, a pair of pedal means pivotally connected to two rear ends of the main frame, an height-adjustable abdomen cushion connected to a front top of the main frame, a front telescopic tubular support angularly and pivotally connected to and in front of the main frame, and a damping-type grip means mounted on a top of the telescopic tubular support. The grip means, the abdomen cushion and the pedal means together form an angle-adjustable inclined plane suitable for a user to train his or her body through imitative swimming movements.