Abstract: Electronic cross-talk is reduced in an ultrasound transducer. Ground traces are interleaved with signal traces on a flexible film. By providing ground traces between the signal traces, the electrical cross-talk between signal traces is reduced.

Abstract: Electrical connection is provided in a transducer stack through a backing block. A flexible circuit is sandwiched between pieces of acoustic attenuating material. For example, 2 to 200 or more flexible circuits are stacked in alternating layers with pieces of acoustically attenuating material. The alternating layers are then connected together to form a backing block with Z-axis electrical connection. The top surface of the connected backing block includes a plurality of exposed electrical traces from the flex circuit. Since flex circuits are used, the electrical traces are precisely aligned along one dimension. Since pre-formed acoustic attenuating material pieces are used, precise alignment is provided along a second or orthogonal dimension. The substrate holding the electrical traces in the flexible circuits provides more stability and allows for easier connection to circuit boards as compared to individual strips of metal.

Abstract: Natamycin biomass comprising 5-60% natamycin, most preferably 25-60% natamycin, and methods for forming the biomass, are disclosed. The natamycin biomass can be mixed with compatible carrier to form a premix comprising 0.2-5% natamycin. The premlix may be mixed with animal feed to form an animal feed mixture comprising cracked grain and 1.1-110 ppm of natamycin.

Abstract: A method for treating canola seeds for use in ruminant feed is disclosed. The method consists of treating substantially intact canola seeds at a temperature of 30.degree.-90.degree. C. with an aqueous alkaline solution, the solution having a pH of 10-14 and comprising 1-20% by weight, based on the dry weight of the seeds, of alkaline agent. The integrity of the seed coat of the canola seeds remains substantially intact during treatment. When treated seeds are fed to ruminants, the triglycerides, fatty acids and protein present in the treated seeds bypass the rumen, and are digested in the abomasum and the small intestine. Ruminant feeds comprising the treated seeds and methods for feeding these feeds to ruminants are also disclosed.