Abstract: Methods and apparatus (systems) are set forth for generating a ramping output alarm signal. An input alarm driver signal is used to generate a ramp control signal over a predetermined time period, t. A first predetermined output alarm signal is generated at the beginning of time period t; ramping to a second predetermined output alarm signal at the end of time period t, in response to the ramp control signal. Output alarm signals contemplated by the invention may also be stepped (as opposed to ramped), signals. In addition, both audio and visual alarm signals are contemplated by the invention. Both ramping and stepped output alarm signals would, for example, find particular utility in door alarms used in environments where sensitivity to the alarm signal itself is or may be an issue. Such environments include, without limitation, nursing homes and cardiac rehab facilities.

Abstract: A new and distinct Euphorbia griffithii×ephithymoides cultivar named ‘AUTUMN SUNSET’ is disclosed, characterized by distinct bright orange floral bracts, upright plant shape and free flowering habit. The new variety is a Euphorbia hybrid, and naturally blooms during June and July.

Abstract: Access to digital data is controlled by encrypting the data in such a manner that, in a single digital data acquisition step, it can be decrypted only at a specified location, within a specific time frame, and with a secret key. Data encrypted in such a manner is said to be geo-encrypted. This geo-encryption process comprises a method in which plaintext data is first encrypted using a data encrypting key that is generated at the time of encryption. The data encrypting key is then encrypted (or locked) using a key encrypting key and information derived from the location of the intended receiver. The encrypted data encrypting key is then transmitted to the receiver along with the ciphertext data. The receiver both must be at the correct location and must have a copy of the corresponding key decrypting key in order to derive the location information and decrypt the data encrypting key. After the data encrypting key is decrypted (or unlocked), it is used to decrypt the ciphertext.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling access to digital information utilizes a location identity attribute that defines a specific geographic location. The location identity attribute is associated with the digital information such that the digital information can be accessed only at the specific geographic location. The location identity attribute further includes a location value and a proximity value. The location value corresponds to a location of an intended recipient appliance of the digital information, and may be further defined in terms of latitude, longitude and altitude dimensions. The digital information is encrypted using a geolocking key based at least in part on the location identity attribute. The geolocking key is based on a shape parameter that is determined from the location identity attribute and is included with the encrypted digital information. The shape parameter describes a shape of a geographic area, but does not identify where the geographic area is located.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Euphorbia plant named ‘Jessie’, characterized by its freely flowering habit and bright yellow floral bracts and whorl leaves with distinct orange margins.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Euphorbia plant named ‘Jessie’, characterized by its freely flowering habit and bright yellow floral bracts and whorl leaves with distinct orange margins.

Abstract: A new and distinct Euphorbia griffithii×ephithymoides cultivar named ‘AUTUMN SUNSET’ is disclosed, characterized by distinct bright orange floral bracts, upright plant shape and free flowering habit. The new variety is a Euphorbia hybrid, and naturally blooms during June and July.