Abstract: The flocculation threshold of a petroleum product containing asphaltenes is measured by measuring the radiation in the near infrared transmitted through a sample of the product in solution in a solvent in relation to the quantity of precipitant continuously added to the sample.

Abstract: A ventilating/aspirating apparatus, and related methods, the apparatus comprising a catheter tube for evacuation of lung secretions wherein the distal end portion of the catheter tube is disposed at a substantial angle in respect to the remainder of the catheter tube whereby entry into the left lung of a patient may be predictably and accurately tended to without appreciable trauma to the patient. A removable angle retainer is provided for maintaining the configuration of the distal end portion of the catheter tube during storage, prior to use. Radiopaque indicia, selectively located within the wall of the catheter tube, is provided by which the entry of the distal end portion of the catheter tube into the lungs and particularly the left lung of the medical patient can be insured through accurate monitoring visually or by using available radiological techniques.

Abstract: Apparatus for respiratory therapy, which is particularly useful in a neonatal context, and related methods, the apparatus comprising an adaptor for connection to the exposed fitting of an indwelling endotracheal tube of any one of several types to an aspirating apparatus which may include ventilating capacity. The adaptor includes an appendage by which a lavage solution can be selectively introduced into the lungs of a patient through the indwelling endotracheal tube to loosen secretions without necessarily interrupting the ventilation cycle or requiring that the ventilating circuit be broken. The apparatus also comprises a fitting at one end of an aspirating/ventilating apparatus which has low dead space, alleviating the incidence of inadvertent disconnection and trauma induced by unintended displacement of the end fitting and accommodating not only aspiration and ventilation but also monitoring of certain vital indicator to allow prompt medical response to contraindications.

Abstract: A ventilating/aspirating apparatus, and related methods, the apparatus comprising a catheter tube for evacuation of lung secretions wherein the distal end portion of the catheter tube is disposed at a substantial angle in respect to the remainder of the catheter tube whereby entry into the left lung of a patient may be predictably and accurately tended to without appreciable trauma to the patient. A removable angle retainer is provided for maintaining the configuration of the distal end portion of the catheter tube during storage, prior to use. Radiopaque indicia, selectively located within the wall of the catheter tube, is provided by which the entry of the distal end portion of the catheter tube into the lungs and paraticularly the left lung of the medical patient can be insured through accurate monitoring visually or by using available radiological techniques.

Abstract: Apparatus for respiratory therapy, which is particularly useful in a neonatal context, and related methods, the apparatus comprising an adaptor for connection to the exposed fitting of an indwelling endotracheal tube of any one of several types to an aspirating apparatus which may include ventilating capacity. The adaptor includes an appendage by which a lavage solution can be selectively introduced into the lungs of a patient through the indwelling endotracheal tube to loosen secretions without necessarily interrupting the ventilation cycle or requiring that the ventilating circuit be broken. The apparatus also comprises a fitting at one end of an aspirating/ventilating apparatus which has low dead space, alleviating the incidence of inadvertent disconnection and trauma induced by unintended displacement of the end fitting and accommodating not only aspiration and ventilation but also monitoring of certain vital indicators to allow prompt medical response to contraindications.

Abstract: A method for operating an electronic control system for an operator controlled, electrically driven vehicle. The vehicle being powered by a direct current electric traction motor. The electronic control system includes a power source, a variable mark-space ratio power regulator responsive to a motor current command signal developed in response to the position of an accelerator, a direction selection means for providing signals indicative of the direction of motion of the vehicle, and a braking signal responsive to brake position. The electronic control system implements operation of the motor automatically in a propulsion mode, a regenerative mode, and a plug mode. The propulsion mode is either a series connected mode or a separately excited mode. The regenerative mode simulates the retarding effects of an internal combustion engine driven vehicle, while recover the kinetic energy of the vehicle by the generation of current to recharge the power source.

Abstract: Tape cassettes, particularly video tape cassettes, are provided with means internally to count the number of times the cassette is subjected to a sequence of user operations. This enables a hirer of such cassettes to see how many times the cassette has been used and to charge a hire fee accordingly. The counter may be mechanical, electro-mechanical or electronic, and is actuated by means associated with the tape release mechanism already built into such cassettes as a standard component; thus, no modification to of extra interaction with, the cassette player is needed.

Abstract: Process for the production of hydrocarbons from synthesis gas in which the gas is contacted at elevated pressure and temperature over a catalyst comprising thorium oxide and zinc oxide promoted with at least one alkali metal compound. Preferably the alkali metal compound is potassium oxide. A major part of the product consists of C.sub.5.sup.+ -hydrocarbons.

Abstract: A palatable liquid dispersed potassium compound dissolution for human oral ingestion to physiologically induce an appetite suppressive response being for use thereof at times of hunger pang sensation and as an appetite satiant substance and method to aid in accomplishing weight control and reduction procedures by dampening the impulse to eat.

Abstract: An electrical braking control circuit for use in a control system for a direct current traction motor which may be employed, for example, to propel an electrically driven vehicle. The electrical braking controller of the invention initiates electrical braking in a plug mode of braking and then, when conditions are suitable for regenerative braking, causes a transition to regenerative braking, followed by return to a plug mode of braking whenever regenerative braking can no longer be efficiently achieved, all of which is carried out smoothly and efficiently without unduly wasting regenerative power.

Abstract: An electrical braking circuit provides smooth transitioning between regenerative and plug braking of a DC electric motor by use of a low ohmic value resistance path to maintain motor torque during transitioning. During initiation of electrical braking, a similar low ohmic resistance path momentarily connects the motor to a power source in order to establish proper magnetic flux in the motor to enable regenerative braking. Both resistance paths are disabled during motoring and braking modes of operation in order to minimize power loss in the resistance paths.

Abstract: A speed regulating circuit which regulates motor speed without the use of a speed feedback signal by adjusting the magnitude of motor current so as to maintain a predetermined relationship between motor voltage and current. A function generator generates a current reference signal as a function of motor terminal voltage. The relationship between terminal voltage and motor current is established by curve fitting of the motor volt-amp family of curves for constant motor speeds. The current reference signal controls a motor current control circuit, preferably a time ratio or chopper circuit in order to adjust motor current and to regulate motor speed. A closed loop current control loop is associated with the chopper circuit for adjusting motor current to the current reference value.