Abstract: A luminaire drive circuit (1) comprises an AC to DC power supply (2) delivering DC power to rails (3), and a plurality of LED drive circuits (4) connected across the rails to receive DC power. Each LED drive circuit (4) comprises a plurality of LEDs (7) in series and a voltage and current controller (6) for controlling current through the LEDs and a voltage across the LEDs which is less than the voltage across the rails. In one example, each LED circuit (4) has a dedicated sensor (52) to detect proximity of an illuminated object. This allows control of illumination intensity both for energy efficiency and visual effect. The proximity sensor may be simply a photodiode (52) mounted to detect extent of light reflected from the objects (FIG. 5), thus avoiding need for a self-contained proximity sensor such as one of the ultrasonic type.

Abstract: A vessel closing laminate comprising: a seal laminate (1) comprising a bottom subassembly of layers including a foil layer (5); and a seal substrate attached to the uppermost layer of the bottom subassembly of layers wherein the seal substrate has a bottom foam layer (2) and a top plastic material layer (10) and further includes a free tab (50) lying wholly within the circumference of the seal; a wax layer (11) on top of the plastic material layer of the seal substrate; and an absorbent liner (12) adhered to the plastic layer of the seal substrate by means of the wax layer.

Abstract: Articles for applying color on a surface comprise a sheet of dry color component and an adhesive on one surface of the sheet of dry color component. In one embodiment, the article is free of a releasable liner and a carrier sheet. In another embodiment, the sheet of dry color component and adhesive have a combined thickness of about 3 mils or less. Methods for providing a substantially permanent color effect on an architectural surface comprise applying dry color component to the architectural surface.

Abstract: The present invention presents an apparatus and system for providing an ability to conduct a secondary search using results provided by a first search capability. This secondary search is integrated with the first search and functions as an added tool or accessory. The present invention allows for user control of search ranking, search viewing and search presentations thus affording more relevant information retrieval. Searchers can dynamically and interactively examine and manipulate the search results to improve relevance and quickly satisfy their search objectives.

Abstract: An inorganic pigment, the pigment comprising a compound which is an oxysulphide or oxyselenide of tin and a metal chosen from niobium or tantalum. The pigments are brightly colored in the color range from yellow, through orange to red, and are especially suitable for the coloration of glass and plastic substrates. Methods for the production of the pigments are also described.

Abstract: A process for producing an API Group I base oil, comprising: blending a lower quality base oil that does not meet API Group I specifications with a Fischer-Tropsch derived distillate fraction having defined pour point, viscosity index and Oxidator B, and isolating an API Group I base oil that has improved defined properties. A process for producing an API Group I base oil, consisting essentially of: (a) selecting a lower quality base oil not meeting API Group I specifications, having defined saturates, viscosity index and Oxidator BN; and (b) blending the lower quality base oil with a Group II base oil and a Fischer-Tropsch derived base oil. A process for improving the lubricating properties of a lower quality base oil. Also, a process for operating a base oil plant.

Abstract: Transforming data structures between different programming languages is disclosed. In some embodiments, a transformation module is configured to transform objects between a first programming language and a second programming language. In some embodiments, an object defined in a first programming language is received, and data comprising the object defined in the first programming language is copied and used to create a corresponding object defined in a second programming language.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing electrostatic discharge protection for a disc drive read head. A pair of depletion mode MOSFETS, and a fuse associated with each are disposed between the read head output terminals. The MOSFETS are controlled to an “off” state for testing the preamplifier prior to assembly of the read head. After assembly of the head, a second pair of MOSFETS is gated to an “on” state to open the fuses and thus permit normal operation of the read head.

Abstract: The book trimming apparatus comprises guides (4) which direct a collated and, optionally, bound book (1) to a fore-edge trimming station (3). The book trimming apparatus further includes a transfer station (5) and a side-edge trimming station (7). For both the fore-edge trimming station (3) and the side-edge trimming station (7) in each case the book is orientated so that the edge to be trimmed is arranged substantially parallel to the direction of motion of the book. The automated book trimming apparatus is particularly suited for use in combination with collation and binding stations in in-line book manufacture.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method of locking-in investment gains can include initializing an investment fund having a net asset value per share. The investment fund can include assets allocated to at least a discount instrument and a derivative instrument, where the discount instrument provides a floor value of the net asset value per share. The method can further include selecting a target value for the investment fund. In addition, in some instances, the method can include reinitializing the investment fund in response to one or more of the following: (a) the investment fund at least achieving the target value and (b) expiration of an investment period of the investment fund. Reinitializing the investment fund can include rolling over the assets of the investment fund.

Abstract: A device and method for deploying a mechanical closure device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart. The single disc mechanical closure device is comprise of a distal and proximal anchor constrained by a closure line to facilitate mechanical closure by bringing the distal and proximal anchors into close proximity along the closure line.

Abstract: A method for producing a primary laminate including a tabstock the steps of; feeding a seal laminate comprising bottom food contact layers including a foil layer and a top polyester layer to a laminating station wherein either the foil layer or the underside of the polyester layer has been printed; simultaneously feeding a tabstock, which is narrower than the seal laminate, to the laminating station such that the bottom of the tabstock and the top polyester layer of the seal laminate come into contact to form a primary substrate, the top face of which is partly comprised of the top face of the tabstock and partly comprised of the top polyester layer of the heat sealable laminate, prior to reaching the laminating station; simultaneously feeding a plastic film stock which has top and bottom surfaces to the laminating station; and continuously extruding a polymeric adhesive between the top face of the primary substrate and bottom surface of the plastic film stock such that the two are adhered together with a bon

Abstract: A multi-function showerhead has at least a first set of nozzles forming first curves and a second set of nozzles forming second curves. The showerhead discharges water through the first curves when a first water delivery function is selected and through the second curves when a second water delivery function is selected. The first curves and the second curves are interleaved so that a coherent and balanced spray pattern is provided resulting in a pleasant showering experience, regardless of the selected water delivery function.

Abstract: Peptides have been identified that bind with high affinity to hair, skin, and nails. The peptide-based conditioners consist of a body surface-binding peptide coupled to a conditioning peptide. Conditioning peptides are typically derived from proteins and peptide having repeating amino acid sequences. Personal care compositions containing these peptide-based conditioners are also described.

Abstract: Prosaposin, saposin C and various peptide fragments of saposin C stimulate neurite outgrowth in vitro. In addition, prosaposin and saposin C promote increased myelination ex vivo. Prosaposin is present in large, neurons of the brain, including both upper and lower motor neurons.

Abstract: A robotic vehicle is disclosed, which is characterized by high mobility, adaptability, and the capability of being remotely controlled in hazardous environments. The robotic vehicle includes a chassis having front and rear ends and supported on right and left driven tracks. Right and left elongated flippers are disposed on corresponding sides of the chassis and operable to pivot. A linkage connects a payload deck, configured to support a removable functional payload, to the chassis. The linkage has a first end rotatably connected to the chassis at a first pivot, and a second end rotatably connected to the deck at a second pivot. Both of the first and second pivots include independently controllable pivot drivers operable to rotatably position their corresponding pivots to control both fore-aft position and pitch orientation of the payload deck with respect to the chassis.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, a computer-implemented method of comparing financial parameters includes providing a first value representing at least a first financial parameter, providing a second value representing at least a second financial parameter, and calculating in a computer a ratio index comprising a time sequence of the ratio of the first value to the second value. In some embodiments, the method further includes creating a financial instrument, wherein the price of the financial instrument is based at least in part on the ratio index. In one embodiment, the financial instrument is an asset-liability derivative having an underlying comprising the ratio index.

Abstract: A tire in which a tire manufacturer has determined the tractive capacity at numerous levels of tread wear, the tire having at least one visual warning indicator located at a tread depth corresponding to a percentage loss of tractive capacity. Also, a method of making the tire and a method improving traffic safety through use of such a tire combined with educating the consumer as to proper use of the tire.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide footwear that may be easily adapted for increased traction and/or recreation. Embodiments may include a chamber having a flexible wall, and retractable members coupled to the flexible wall such that when fluid is inserted into the chamber, the retractable members are extended from the bottom of a shoe and when fluid is removed from the chamber the retractable members are retracted into the bottom of a shoe.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for mixing a fluid dispersion disposed in a container having either a cylindrical or a square shape. The apparatus includes a holding structure having a retaining structure connected to a base. The retaining structure prevents lateral movement of the container both when the container has a cylindrical shape and when the container has a generally square shape with a width substantially equal to the diameter of the cylindrical shape. The apparatus rotates the container about at least one axis.