Abstract: A computing device receives, at a scheduler of the computing device, a first write request from a first thread of a plurality of threads. The scheduler schedules access for the plurality of threads across a boundary of an access-controlled region in a memory of the computing device. The computing device determines that a second memory region in the access-controlled region is allocated for storing data copied from a first memory region. During copying, to the second memory region, the data copied from the first memory region, the computing device permits scheduling, by the scheduler, an operation to read from the first memory region for any read requests from the plurality of threads during the copying; and denies scheduling, by the scheduler, an operation to write to the first memory region for any subsequent write requests from the plurality of threads during the copying.

Abstract: A roofing removing tool has a shingle removing body for removing shingles from a roof deck. The shingle removing body has a plurality of elongated tines having a forward portion insertable beneath shingles to be removed. A handle extends rearwardly from the shingle removal body for manipulation of the tool. The tool further has a nail removal body for simultaneously removing nails from a roof deck as shingles are removed from the roof deck. The nail removing body has a nail removing blade supported in spaced relationship to and below the tines, and is positioned rearwardly of the forward portion of the tines and adjacent the handle.

Abstract: A selected value of attenuation can be inserted in an expanded beam fiber optic connector or coupling component. The attenuator includes a spacer member having planar ends slightly inclined to one another so that the axes of the lenses in the two halves of the connection are caused to be misaligned when the spacer member is disposed between the lenses. An adapter kit is disclosed for modifying an existing connector lacking the ability to selectively attenuate. The kit includes a housing extension member and a spacer member.

Abstract: A device for removing samples of a material which is dropped through a vertical pipeline. The device includes a scoop which can be telescoped into the pipeline through a side mounting track to catch a material sample, and then telescoped out of the pipeline into the mounting track. The mounting track has a lower discharge opening which registers with the scoop when the latter is rotated 180.degree. so that the sample can be dropped into a container. The inner end of the scoop is closed so that the pipeline remains closed during all phases of the sampling operation. The mounting track is secured to a nozzle on the pipeline.

Abstract: A floating platform assembly designed to provide a stable work surface within cylindrical, vertically upward closed vessels which have axially centered obstructions and limited entry space and which vessels are partially filled with a liquid. The platform floats on a plurality of pontoons and includes an annular platform on which persons inspecting the interior of the vessel can stand. The annular configuration of the platform allows it to be assembled within the vessel around the central obstruction. The platform is modular and is assembled in the vessel from a plurality of identical sections. After the inspection of the vessel interior, the platform is disassembled and removed from the vessel through the limited entry space.