Abstract: A digital signal of which input data has been segmented as block each having a predetermined data amount and highly efficiently encoded along with an adjacent block is decoded, edited, and then highly efficiently encoded. A delay that takes place in such signal processes is compensated. Thus, part of a digital signal that has been highly efficiently encoded digital signal can be edited.

Abstract: A developing device for developing a latent image formed on an image carrier with a developing liquid containing a carrier liquid and a developing substance, including a developing roller including a roller portion and rotatable while carrying the developing liquid on the roller portion, and a voltage applying device configured to apply a voltage to the roller portion to thereby form an electric field for development between the roller portion and the image carrier, whereby the developing liquid deposited on the roller portion is transferred to a latent image formed on the image carrier. The roller portion has a volume resistivity ranging from 0 &OHgr;cm to 107 &OHgr;cm.

Abstract: A method of forming an insulating film which includes the steps of: dissolving in a solvent a first and second polymer which each comprise methylpolysiloxane as the main component and one of which has a weight average molecular weight at least 10 times that of the other to thereby prepare a chemical solution; applying the chemical solution to a semiconductor substrate to form a coating film; and heat-treating the coating film to thereby form an organosilicon oxide film. The weight-average molecular weight of the first polymer is preferably at least 100 times that of the second polymer. Thus, an insulating organosilicon oxide film having a low dielectric constant and high cracking resistance is formed from a coating fluid.

Abstract: An electric power generation system using fuel cells, wherein the system includes a stack of fuel cells each having an anode, electrolyte and a cathode. Associated with the anodes are anode passageways divided into two groups. Each group is formed by anode passageways connected to one of the two anode gas exhaust manifolds. Associated with the cathodes are cathode passageways divided into two groups. Each group is formed by cathode passageways connected to one of the two cathode gas exhaust manifolds. The anode exhaust gas in each of the manifolds is maintained completely separate from that in the other manifold. Similarly, the cathode exhaust gas is separate in the two manifolds. Fuel gas from a supply is fed to an inlet manifold supplying all of the anode passageways in which the reforming reaction takes place. Anode exhaust gas from the outer manifold is supplied to the inlet manifold to mix with the fuel gas to the anode passageways.

Abstract: Flouorosilicone compounds of formula (I): ##STR1## wherein k is 1-17, l is 1-18, p is 1-6, R.sub.1 represents a hydrogen atom or a C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl group,R.sub.2 represents a C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl group or the --OSi(R.sub.3).sub.3 group, andR.sub.3 represents a C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl group.These are applicable, in the form of non-volatile oil, for topical application in field of cosmetics and dermatology.

Abstract: Ballpoint pen pastes are prepared comprising at least one colored metal oxide pigment and customary ballpoint pen paste resin and organic solvent as essential components and also, if desired, further customary additives.