Abstract: A system (100) and method for remotely monitoring and controlling time variant data in an industrial plant (400). The system (100) includes a local server (102) and at least one remote server (104). The local server (102) includes a local server cache (206), a local controller (308), and a local operator station (1001). Each remote server (104) includes a remote server cache (901) and a remote controller (903). Wherein the local server cache (206) stores a plurality of data units (304), and the local controller (308) provides updated units (902) to the local server cache (206). Each remote server cache (901) stores a plurality of data units (902), and each remote controller (903) provides updated data units (902) to its corresponding remote server cache (901). The method operates such that each cache (206, 901) buffers controllers (308) and other servers (104) from unnecessary data requesting transactions, minimizing the data traffic in the system (100).

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus for transferring security documents. The apparatus is formed from a carrier adapted for use in an air tube system capable of transporting the carrier from a source to a destination. The carrier includes a substantially cylindrically shaped housing (10) which cooperates with the tube to allow the carrier to be transported. The housing includes an internal cavity (10A), and is coupled to a lid (17) and a base (18) to enclose the cavity. The lid includes an aperture (17A) to allow documents to be inserted into the cavity, with the base being removable via a lock to allow the security documents to be removed. The invention also claims an air tube system for transferring security documents, the system including a controller adapted to control a number of control stations (21A, 21B, . . . 21G) for selectively transferring carriers along interconnecting tubes between loading stations and destination stations.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for expanding and increasing survival of hematopoietic cell populations, for prolonging viability of an organ for transplantation, and enhancing bioproduction, using interleukin-1&bgr;-converting enzyme (ICE)/CED-3 family inhibitors. Exemplary compounds useful in the methods of the invention are provided herein.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for expanding and increasing survival of hematopoietic cell populations, for prolonging viability of an organ for transplantation, and enhancing bioproduction, using interleukin-1&bgr;-converting enzyme (ICE)/CED-3 family inhibitors. Exemplary compounds useful in the methods of the invention are provided herein.

Abstract: A material dispensing device having a discharge spout, passage of material through the spout being controlled by a curved blade spring which is operable to snap between two positions in each of which it co-operates with an obturating member in closing the spout.