Abstract: The present invention provides BZPA products with improved flowability and two methods of producing such BZPA products. Both methods successfully produce BZPA products that are not prone to agglomerate upon storage, and thus the flowability of such BZPA products does not degrade over time. The first method includes mechanically forming the BZPA crystals into large compacted pellets or briquettes without the introduction of any additives or binders. The compacted pellets are large enough that the physical and chemical effects that occur on the surface of small crystal particles are eliminated or minimized, but small enough that the BZPA can be easily handled and used in commercial applications. The second method includes adding a substantially inert anti-caking agent to the BZPA crystals to minimize or retard their tendency to agglomerate. The preferred anti-caking agent is silicon dioxide (SiO2), which is blended with the BZPA crystals in small amounts.

Abstract: Evaporation control for a fluid supply, such as used in a clinical analyzer, can be provided by utilizing a straw-like insert which is disposed into a fluid-containing bottle. The straw provides an increased diffusion length or “stagnant” zone. The bottle can also be configured to effectively reduce evaporation in a similar manner by providing a narrowed diameter prior to the fluid retaining portion of the bottle and by increasing the distance between the top of the bottle and the top of the fluid surface.

Abstract: Methods and systems for performing iterative soft slicing methods are disclosed. A data signal is received and processed into individual data tones. A noise estimator provides noise estimates for each data tone. A beamformer utilizes the noise estimates to provide first and second components of a constellation point estimate. A ratio of the first and second components corresponds to the constellation point estimate. A soft slicer uses outputs from the beamformer and noise estimator to determine weighted constellation points without dividing the first component by the second component.

Abstract: A window covering system includes a plurality of horizontal slats which are tiltable to control entry of light. The slats include a light processing section which may be a transparent or translucent plastic and an opaque section which may be aluminum. In cross-section, the slats have a complex curvature which processes and diffuses light into the interior while preventing direct light beam penetration to the interior.

Abstract: An adhesive system has been developed for orthodontic ceramic brackets which minimizes tooth fracture and makes bracket removal easier and more predictable. The adhesive system makes use of current filled adhesives and a plasticizer (e.g. diethyl phthalate, xylene, etc.). Additions of plasticizer between 10 to 20 weight percent of the adhesive will decrease the adhesion in excess of 50%. This adhesive permits more patient comfort while at the same time allowing for the use of ceramic brackets.