Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for and a method of shaping an end face 230 of an optical fiber 26. The end face 230 is heated by a heat source 204, 206 in order to form a substantially hemispherical end face 230, which functions as a lens and has a predetermined radius value. An actual radius value of the end face is repetitively calculated by a control computer 6 using information from an image processing device 4, which computer 6 then compares the actual radius value with the predetermined radius value. The heating of the end face is continued if the actual radius value is lower than the predetermined radius value, and discontinued if the actual radius value is equal to or higher than the predetermined radius value.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel process for the synthesis of 5-methoxy-2-[[(4-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl-2-pyridinyl)methyl]sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole, known under the generic name omeprazole. Moreover, the present invention also relates to manufacture of a pharmaceutical preparation thereof and its use in medicine. The novel process for the preparation of omeprazole, comprises the step of oxidizing 5-methoxy-2-[[(4-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl-2-pyridinyl)methyl]thio]-1H-benzimidazole in an organic solvent with an oxidizing agent in the presence of a titanium complex and optionally in the presence of a base.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a solenoid-operated valve element are provided. The valve element is movable between first and second end positions, and is urgable toward the first end position by magnetic attraction caused by activation of the solenoid and is normally urged toward the second end position. The method further enables detection of the time at which the valve element returns to the second end position from the first end position after deactivation of the solenoid.

Abstract: Device for wetting and/or cleaning solenoids in an offset rotary printing machine having a plate cylinder, an offset cylinder and an impression cylinder. The device comprises wetting cylinders running against the plate cylinder and a ramp with several nozzles for spraying liquid towards the wetting solenoids in atomized condition, said ramp being mounted in parallel with the rotational axes of the cylinders. A valve is provided for each nozzle having at least one separate solenoid controlled inlet for liquid and an outlet to the associated nozzle. The solenoid control inlet comprises a valve with a solenoid armature (25) which is spring biased towards the closed position of the valve, and a valve element (26, 27) displaceably mounted in the solenoid armature and spring biased towards the closed position of the valve, said valve element in this position engaging a valve seat.