Abstract: An improved device and system for facilitating polymerase chain reaction including a light source, detector, waveguide, and filters that occupy minimal space and facilitate detection of stationary samples, reduced sample read time, and simultaneous reading of multiple light wavelengths.

Abstract: A computer-based apparatus for managing data based on performance of an underlying securities index including a memory element of a computer configured to store computer executable instructions and a processor for the computer, configured to execute the computer readable instructions to receive information on a lower buffer threshold against losses for an investment, and determine a total return on the investment during an outcome period o, wherein the total return is adjusted to fall above the buffer threshold.

Abstract: A computer-based apparatus for managing data based on performance of an underlying securities index including a memory element of a computer configured to store computer executable instructions and a processor for the computer, configured to execute the computer readable instructions to receive information on a lower buffer threshold against losses for an investment, and determine a total return on the investment during an outcome period o, wherein the total return is adjusted to fall above the buffer threshold.

Abstract: A computer-based apparatus for managing data based on performance of an underlying securities index including a memory element of a computer configured to store computer executable instructions and a processor for the computer, configured to execute the computer readable instructions to receive information on a lower buffer threshold against losses for an investment, and determine a total return on the investment during an outcome period o, wherein the total return is adjusted to fall above the buffer threshold.

Abstract: A pumping system has a motor (32) for driving a pumping mechanism (30). A variable frequency drive unit (36) has an input for receiving electrical energy of relatively high power and first, fixed frequency from a power supply, and an output coupled to an input (46) of the motor for supplying electrical energy of relatively low power and second, variable frequency to the motor. This second frequency preferably has a maximum value greater than the first frequency. A control circuit (50) is provided for selectively coupling the motor input (46) directly to the power supply for the supply of the relatively high power energy to the motor to maximize the torque that can be produced by the pumping mechanism. After a period of time the control circuit terminates the direct coupling of the motor input to the power supply for the supply of the relatively low power energy to the motor.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pumping system (60) comprising: a pumping mechanism (64); a motor (51) for driving the pumping mechanism; a drive control (50) for controlling the motor; and means (52) for monitoring at least one state within the system; wherein, to improve the performance of the system, the drive control causes the system to operate for transient periods in an overload condition which can result in said monitored state exceeding a predetermined operational limit, and when operating in said overload condition said drive control controls the power to the motor dependent on the level of said monitored state thereby avoiding said state from exceeding said operational limit.

Abstract: A vacuum pump includes a rotor assembly mounted on a driven shaft, and a motor for rotating a drive shaft in forward and reverse directions. A drive member on the drive shaft engages a driven member on the driven shaft. Each member has first and second impact surfaces. The members are configured to permit at least one quarter of a revolution of the drive member relative to the driven member in either the forward or the reverse direction before one of the impact surfaces of the drive member impacts upon a corresponding impact surface of the driven member. This enables the drive member to acquire sufficient angular momentum before it impacts the driven member such that the amount of energy transferred to the driven shaft upon impact can be sufficient to free a pump that has become locked by process deposits.

Abstract: A pumping system has a motor (32) for driving a pumping mechanism (30). A variable frequency drive unit (36) has an input for receiving electrical energy of relatively high power and first, fixed frequency from a power supply, and an output coupled to an input (46) of the motor for supplying electrical energy of relatively low power and second, variable frequency to the motor. This second frequency preferably has a maximum value greater than the first frequency. A control circuit (50) is provided for selectively coupling the motor input (46) directly to the power supply for the supply of said relatively high power energy to the motor to maximise the torque that can be produced by the pumping mechanism. After a period of time the control circuit terminates the direct coupling of the motor input to the power supply for the supply of said relatively low power energy to the motor.

Abstract: A nasal air filtration device includes a pair of either planar or concave-convex filters, a support structure incorporating a pair of generally annular bases or sleeves for supporting the filters, and a bridge that couples the bases or sleeves to maintain them in a desired spaced-apart relation and to determine a desired angular relationship. The support structure is insertable into the nasal cavities to position the filters within corresponding nasal cavities. Flexible rims maintain the support structure and the filters in spaced-apart relation to the surrounding nasal wall. The rims conform to surrounding nasal tissue to form seals. The rims can be selectively inclined to facilitate insertion and resist accidental removal. In certain embodiments the device is combined with a filter that covers the mouth to provide an air filtration system.

Abstract: A nasal air filtration device includes a pair of concave-convex filters, and a support structure incorporating a pair of generally annular bases for supporting the filters, and a bridge that couples the bases, to maintain them in a desired spaced-apart relation and to determine a desired angular relationship between the bases and between the associated filters. The support structure is positionable against the anterior nares to direct the filters into their corresponding nasal cavities. The support structure maintains each of the filters in spaced-apart relation to the surrounding nasal wall. In alternative embodiments, an open frame is mounted to each base and positioned between its associated filter and the nasal wall.