Abstract: A method of compressing image data that comprise a plurality of pixel values that are associated with a respective pixel is described, wherein the pixel values are compressed for at least some pixels in accordance with the following steps: associating the respective pixel with one of a plurality of pixel groups in accordance with a predetermined grouping scheme, with each of the plurality of pixel groups being defined by the pixels of a plurality of predetermined pixel alignments or by a subset of pixels of a plurality of predetermined pixel alignments; determining an estimated pixel value of the respective pixel in dependence on the pixel value of at least one predetermined other pixel while using at least one estimation rule, with the at least one predetermined other pixel being selected in dependence on the pixel group of the respective pixel; forming a difference value of the respective pixel that corresponds to a predetermined relation between the pixel value and the estimated pixel value of the respecti

Abstract: A computerized method for implementing an optimal supply chain configuration includes the step of implementing an optimal supply chain configuration for a business. The method includes the step of modelling costs for minimization in an optimal supply chain configuration. The method includes the step of modelling constraints in an optimal supply chain configuration. The method includes the step of, based on the modelled cost for minimization and the modelled constraints, optimizing a supply chain for the business.

Abstract: A method of compressing image data is described in which a difference value is formed for a respective pixel, said difference value corresponding to a predetermined relation between the pixel value and the estimated pixel value of the respective pixel and being represented by a first binary word that has a first length. The first binary word is encoded by at least one second binary word that has a second predetermined length. the first length is compared with the second length to determine whether the first length is smaller than the second length, with the first binary word otherwise being completely encoded by a single second binary word when the first length is smaller than the second length, and with the first binary word otherwise being completely encoded by a plurality of second binary words. A method of decompressing image data is furthermore described that corresponds to a reversal of the compression method.

Abstract: A system provides bi-manual game-based integrative therapy combining cognitive training with mild upper body physical exercising during game play. The system includes a pair of interfaces tracking a user's arms in 3D and detect trigger pressing. Custom therapeutic game controllers that detect grasping force, finger extension, 3D hand position, skin temperature and pulse may be used. Using one of these interfaces the patient plays a series of custom games displayed on a laptop, medical grade workstation, or other computer platform. The whole therapeutic system may be integrated on a medical cart, so to make the system mobile and easier to place in a clinical setting. Games were designed to improve motor control, shoulder strength, finger and arm range of motion, task sequencing, focusing, decision making (executive function), short term and long term visual/auditory memory, and were progressed in difficulty over 6 to 8 weeks of therapy. This therapy reduces depression.

Abstract: A method of compressing image data that comprise a plurality of pixel values that are associated with a respective pixel is described, wherein the pixel values are compressed for at least some pixels in accordance with the following steps: associating the respective pixel with one of a plurality of pixel groups in accordance with a predetermined grouping scheme, with each of the plurality of pixel groups being defined by the pixels of a plurality of predetermined pixel alignments or by a subset of pixels of a plurality of predetermined pixel alignments; determining an estimated pixel value of the respective pixel in dependence on the pixel value of at least one predetermined other pixel while using at least one estimation rule, with the at least one predetermined other pixel being selected in dependence on the pixel group of the respective pixel; forming a difference value of the respective pixel that corresponds to a predetermined relation between the pixel value and the estimated pixel value of the respecti

Abstract: A method of compressing image data is described in which a difference value is formed for a respective pixel, said difference value corresponding to a predetermined relation between the pixel value and the estimated pixel value of the respective pixel and being represented by a first binary word that has a first length. The first binary word is encoded by at least one second binary word that has a second predetermined length. the first length is compared with the second length to determine whether the first length is smaller than the second length, with the first binary word otherwise being completely encoded by a single second binary word when the first length is smaller than the second length, and with the first binary word otherwise being completely encoded by a plurality of second binary words. A method of decompressing image data is furthermore described that corresponds to a reversal of the compression method.

Abstract: A system provides bi-manual game-based integrative therapy combining cognitive training with mild upper body physical exercising during game play. The system includes a pair of interfaces tracking a user's arms in 3D and detect trigger pressing. Custom therapeutic game controllers that detect grasping force, finger extension, 3D hand position, skin temperature and pulse may be used. Using one of these interfaces the patient plays a series of custom games displayed on a laptop, medical grade workstation, or other computer platform. The whole therapeutic system may be integrated on a medical cart, so to make the system mobile and easier to place in a clinical setting. Games were designed to improve motor control, shoulder strength, finger and arm range of motion, task sequencing, focusing, decision making (executive function), short term and long term visual/auditory memory, and were progressed in difficulty over 6 to 8 weeks of therapy. This therapy reduces depression.

Abstract: A trap device for a carpenter bee. A first lure comprises an entry hole defined through an enclosure. A second lure comprises a tunnel extending from the entry hole into the interior. A third lure comprises a means for allowing natural sunlight to penetrate into the interior such that a bee passing into the tunnel is lured towards the exit. A tray is situated within the interior past the exit, the tray containing a sticky substance such that the bee is immobilized upon traveling into the interior. An optional bait lure is utilized consisting of either female bee pheromone or a fragrance. Therefore, a bee, attracted to the natural wood of the enclosure and entry hole, enters the tunnel, turns by natural instinct to follow the path of two chambers and makes contact with the sticky pad to become immobilized.

Abstract: A method is provided for assigning a relative score number to foods. Assignment of a relative score number to foods allows consumers to select foods that will provide a desirable diet. Equations are provided which are effective to yield a predicted raw score based on measured characteristics. The predicted raw score statistically correlates to a raw score that would be determined by an actual panel. The predicted raw scores are further processed to provide a relative score number that can be easily tracked by a consumer.

Abstract: A method is provided for assigning a relative score number to foods. Assignment of a relative score number to foods allows consumers to select foods that will provide a desirable diet. Equations are provided which are effective to yield a predicted raw score based on measured characteristics. The predicted raw score statistically correlates to a raw score that would be determined by an actual panel. The predicted raw scores are further processed to provide a relative score number that can be easily tracked by a consumer.

Abstract: A trap device for a carpenter bee. A first lure comprises an entry hole defined through an enclosure. A second lure comprises a tunnel extending from the entry hole into the interior. A third lure comprises a means for allowing natural sunlight to penetrate into the interior such that a bee passing into the tunnel is lured towards the exit. A tray is situated within the interior past the exit, the tray containing a sticky substance such that the bee is immobilized upon traveling into the interior. An optional bait lure is utilized consisting of either female bee pheromone or a fragrance. Therefore, a bee, attracted to the natural wood of the enclosure and entry hole, enters the tunnel, turns by natural instinct to follow the path of two chambers and makes contact with the sticky pad to become immobilized.

Abstract: A structural element employing hydrostatic pressure to compress cohesion-less particles to significantly increase the load carrying capacity of the element along a load-bearing axis, a system for deploying said structural element and a method for deploying said structural element using the system.

Abstract: A structural element employing hydrostatic pressure to compress cohesion-less particles to significantly increase the load carrying capacity of the element along a load-bearing axis, a system for deploying said structural element and a method for deploying said structural element using the system.

Abstract: A method is provided for assigning a relative score number to foods. Assignment of a relative score number to foods allows consumers to select foods that will provide a desirable diet. Equations are provided which are effective to yield a predicted raw score based on measured characteristics. The predicted raw score statistically correlates to a raw score that would be determined by an actual panel. The predicted raw scores are further processed to provide a relative score number that can be easily tracked by a consumer.