Abstract: An acoustic actuator for scale removal and prevention in a wellbore is described herein. For example, a system can include a tubing string deployed downhole in a wellbore. A downhole tool can be coupled to the tubing string. An acoustic actuator can be coupled to the tubing string and positioned proximate to the downhole tool. The acoustic actuator can generate an acoustic signal that can vibrate the tubing string to generate a fluidic disturbance in downhole fluid within the tubing string for removing contaminants from, or preventing formation of contaminants, on the downhole tool.

Abstract: Techniques for correlating changing hydraulic pressure differentials with interval control valve (ICV) movements are contemplated. In some aspects, the disclosed technology includes include methods for applying, by a surface controller, a series of differential pressure values to a hydraulic-open line, receiving, from a position sensor, a corresponding valve position for each of the differential pressure values, and calculating a lag time, a move speed and a response delay for each of the first series of differential pressure values. In some aspects, the method can further include steps for generating an ICV positioning model based at least in part on the lag time, the move speed, and the response delay calculated for each of the first series of differential pressure values. Systems and computer-readable media are also provided.

Abstract: A sling for supporting a subject such as a patient includes a panel assembly including a left flank with a left end, a right flank with a right end, and an interflank panel. The interflank panel has a left extremity permanently joined to the left end of the left flank and a right extremity permanently joined to the right end of the right flank. The sling also includes a left closure element and a right closure element which are securable to each other and releasable from each other to adjust an effective dimension of the sling. In another embodiment, the sling includes a frangible closure member which secures the left flank to the right flank.

Abstract: Techniques for correlating changing hydraulic pressure differentials with interval control valve (ICV) movements are contemplated. In some aspects, the disclosed technology includes include methods for applying, by a surface controller, a series of differential pressure values to a hydraulic-open line, receiving, from a position sensor, a corresponding valve position for each of the differential pressure values, and calculating a lag time, a move speed and a response delay for each of the first series of differential pressure values. In some aspects, the method can further include steps for generating an ICV positioning model based at least in part on the lag time, the move speed, and the response delay calculated for each of the first series of differential pressure values. Systems and computer-readable media are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of increasing stomatal function in plants, which as a result leads to an increase in carbon assimilation and/or water use efficiency and ultimately an increase in yield. In particular the methods of the invention relate to the expression of light-gated potassium channels in the stomatal complex. Also described are genetically altered plants characterised by the above phenotype as well as methods of producing such plants.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for easily and simply lifting and holding upon a heavy cumbersome lids, such as those found on large trash containers thereby allowing the user the use of both hands for hoisting and dumping the trash without having to hold open the lid with one hand or other body part. Furthermore, the use of an external device to lift and hold open the lid makes it easier to keep the task hygienic.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of increasing stomatal function in plants, which as a result leads to an increase in carbon assimilation and/or water use efficiency and ultimately an increase in yield. In particular the methods of the invention relate to the expression of light-gated potassium channels in the stomatal complex. Also described are genetically altered plants characterised by the above phenotype as well as methods of producing such plants.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a downhole device including an actuator which has a primary purpose to operate the device while also having a secondary purpose to induce controlled pulses into a downhole environment at a first location for detection at a second location. A control package can be connected to the actuator. The control package is operable to detect a trigger event and control the actuator to cause the controlled pulses in the downhole environment in response. In some aspects, the trigger event is the reception of a command sent to the downhole device from the surface and the controlled pulses serve to provide a feedback signal receivable at the surface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method of inhibiting or treating a cancer with use of a TNF expressing myxoma virus. Also disclosed herein are methods of inhibiting or treating a cancer with use of a mononuclear peripheral blood cells and/or a bone marrow cells treated with a TNF-expressing myxoma virus. Some aspects relate to engineered myxoma virus and pharmaceutical compositions for use with one or more of the methods described herein.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a downhole device including an actuator which has a primary purpose to operate the device while also having a secondary purpose to induce controlled pulses into a downhole environment at a first location for detection at a second location. A control package can be connected to the actuator. The control package is operable to detect a trigger event and control the actuator to cause the controlled pulses in the downhole environment in response. In some aspects, the trigger event is the reception of a command sent to the downhole device from the surface and the controlled pulses serve to provide a feedback signal receivable at the surface.

Abstract: A sling for supporting a subject such as a patient includes a panel assembly including a left flank with a left end, a right flank with a right end, and an interflank panel. The interflank panel has a left extremity permanently joined to the left end of the left flank and a right extremity permanently joined to the right end of the right flank. The sling also includes a left closure element and a right closure element which are securable to each other and releasable from each other to adjust an effective dimension of the sling. In another embodiment, the sling includes a frangible closure member which secures the left flank to the right flank.

Abstract: A method, a device and a system for activating a running/setting tool are provided. The method includes: 1) detecting a wellbore condition at the running tool, 2) based on a signal from surface equipment received at the running tool, initiating an isolation of pressure below the running tool from pressure above the running tool, and 3) if the signal is not received at the running tool, initiating the isolation of pressure below the running tool from the above at a predefined time based on the wellbore condition.

Abstract: A method, a device and a system for activating a running/setting tool are provided. The method includes: 1) detecting a wellbore condition at the running tool, 2) based on a signal from surface equipment received at the running tool, initiating an isolation of pressure below the running tool from pressure above the running tool, and 3) if the signal is not received at the running tool, initiating the isolation of pressure below the running tool from the above at a predefined time based on the wellbore condition.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for easily and simply lifting and holding open residential size trash containers thereby allowing the user the use of both hands for hoisting and dumping the trash without having to touch the lid with bare or both hands. The device also holds the lid in an open position without having to rest the lid against a wall or abutment or having the lid completely flip to the back side of the receptacle through the hinge.

Abstract: A downhole apparatus (10) adapted to be run on a workstring in a well bore. The apparatus has a body (12) including ports (42) and a valve (26) which is rotatable to open and close the ports to selectively allow fluid flow through the body between regions of a well bore above and below the apparatus. The valve is rotated via a gearbox (28) and motor (30) in the apparatus. A sealing arrangement between the valve and body is also described. A method of running the apparatus in a well bore and monitoring pressure above the apparatus in order to control opening and closing of the valve under predetermined conditions is presented.

Abstract: A downhole apparatus (10) adapted to be run on a workstring in a well bore. The apparatus has a body (12) including ports (42) and a valve (26) which is rotatable to open and close the ports to selectively allow fluid flow through the body between regions of a well bore above and below the apparatus. The valve is rotated via a gearbox (28) and motor (30) in the apparatus. A sealing arrangement between the valve and body is also described. A method of running the apparatus in a well bore and monitoring pressure above the apparatus in order to control opening and closing of the valve under predetermined conditions is presented.

Abstract: A downhole apparatus adapted to be run on a workstring in a well bore. The apparatus has a body including ports and a valve which is rotatable to open and close the ports to selectively allow fluid flow through the body between regions of a well bore above and below the apparatus. The valve is rotated via a gearbox and motor in the apparatus. A sealing arrangement between the valve and body is also described. A method of running the apparatus in a well bore and monitoring pressure above the apparatus in order to control opening and closing of the valve under predetermined conditions is presented.

Abstract: A security system controls access to a currency cassette. The system includes a database having images of individuals authorized to access the cassette. The system also includes a camera for capturing an image of an individual attempting to access the cassette. A processor determines whether the captured image corresponds to an authorized individual represented in the database. Access is granted based on a positive determination. The security system can be used so that only approved service personnel can gain immediate access to a currency cassette.