Abstract: A disposable absorbent article may comprise a chassis and an ear. The chassis comprises a liquid permeable topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet. The ear comprises an elastomeric material and a first substrate joined to the elastomeric material. The ear has a first void region adjacent the proximal edge of the ear. The ear is joined to the chassis by at least one mechanical bond that engages the elastomeric material.

Abstract: A stretch laminate having a first nonwoven material, a second nonwoven material, an elastic film. The elastic film may be interposed between said first and second nonwoven material. The elastic film has a first longitudinal side edge and a second longitudinal side edge. The stretch laminate further has a first plane of adhesive having differing amounts of adhesive as measured laterally within the stretch laminate. The differing amounts of adhesive being controllable. The first plane of adhesive being interposed between the first nonwoven material and the elastic film. The stretch laminate further has a second plane of adhesive having differing amounts of adhesive as measured laterally within the stretch laminate. The differing amounts of adhesive being controllable. The second plane of adhesive being interposed between the second nonwoven material and the elastic film. Each of the above elements are substantially laminated together to form a laminate. The laminate is activated to form the stretch laminate.

Abstract: A method of automating validation in a manufacturing facility is disclosed. The method comprises defining requirements, selecting and integrating automated devices for manufacturing. A hub-box with communication links is used to integrate the automated devices. The hub-box controls and facilitates communication between automated devices. The hub-box further collects and analyzes processing data for validation of the process. By interconnecting the automated devices to a hub-box, processing data may be collected substantially real-time and accessed remotely, facilitating continuous process validation.

Abstract: An improved layout for a manufacturing facility is disclosed. The layout includes a production area which includes a hub which is at least partially surrounded by a production corridor. The production corridor comprises production stages used in the manufacturing process. The hub, having direct line-of-sight to the production stages, can easily monitor the manufacturing process.

Abstract: An improved layout for a manufacturing facility is disclosed. The layout includes a hub surrounded by a production corridor. The production corridor comprises production stages used in the manufacturing process. The hub, having direct line-of-sight to the production stages, can easily monitor the manufacturing process.

Abstract: The present invention involves a method of assaying for modulators of enzymes involved in the phosphorylation of the inner core oligosaccharide of LPS. In particular, the method assays for modulators, preferably inhibitors, of WaaP, a tyrosine kinase responsible for the phosphorylation of HepI of the inner core LPS. The finding that monoclonal antibody mAb 7-4 specifically recognizes the phosphate group(s) of LPS, is the basis for the development of a non-radiolabeling, ELISA-based assay for enzymes involved in the phosphorylation of LPS.

Abstract: A diamond polishing workbench having a top working surface substantially free of vibration comprises an open rectangular steel frame having a peripheral shoulder on its interior. A first support table is rested within the shoulder and is mechanically insulated from the frame by a vibration damping material and a polishing wheel mount is connected to the first table. A second table is seated on the upper surface of the frame and is also mechanically insulated from the frame by a suitable vibration damping material.