Abstract: This application relates to methods and apparatus for driving a transducer with switching drivers. A switching driver has first and second supply node for receiving supply voltages and includes an output bridge stage, a capacitor and a network of switches. The network of switches is operable in different switch states to provide different switching voltages to the output bridge stage. A controller is configured to control the switch state of the network of switches and a duty cycle of output switches of the output bridge stage based on an input signal to generate an output signal for driving the transducer.

Abstract: Provided is a lubricating oil composition that includes a major amount of a lubricant base oil and a minor amount of a viscosity index improver comprising a syndiotactic propylene-based ethylene-propylene copolymer comprising: a) 2 to 20% by weight of ethylene, b) 80 to 98% by weight of propylene; c) 50 to 99% of rr triads; and d) Mw (LS) of 10 to 250 kg/mol.

Abstract: A surgical stapler instrument includes a stapling head assembly that receives a plurality of staples. The staples are configured with features that allow the staples to expand after deployment so that an anastomosis created by the instrument can increase in size after forming. In some versions the staples expand automatically after deployment, and in other versions the staples expand in response to tissue forces imparted upon the staples after deployment. In some versions the staples are configured to be deployed in various patterns that promote expandability of the circular staple line.

Abstract: Formulations of polyvinyl chloride blended with nitrile rubber are provided. These formulations have been found to be useful in floor cleaning units, and provide a cost savings benefit, while meeting the physical and chemical property demands for the floor cleaning unit parts into which they are formed.

Abstract: An electronic flash head for photographic lighting, or a "strobe head", contains a miniaturized circuit that is potted to protect and electrically insulate the components. The flash head is small, and has a socket so the flash tube can be replaced to take different amounts of power input. A clamp quickly fastens to the body of the flash head for connection of any desired reflector, soft box or other accessory. A tail extends from the flash head, the tail being of a size to fit into a light socket for support; and, a threaded socket in the tail allows connection of many different supporting devices to the head. The one flash head can therefore be used in almost any photographic lighting situation through selection of the support, the reflector and the flash tube.