Abstract: A mixture includes paraffin wax and a thickening agent, the thickening agent being pseudoplastic above the melting point of the paraffin wax. The paraffin wax ideally makes up 50-99% w of the mixture, and the thickening agent 1-40% w of the mixture. The thickening agent includes diatomaceous earth. The mixture may include abrasive material, fibrous particles, and talc to affect its texture when applied to an article. Also disclosed is a synthetic log of combustible material including wood waste and a hydrocarbon (such as paraffin wax), and a coating applied in a state of low viscosity so as to partially or wholly cover the surface of the log, which then sets. This coating is ideally the mixture defined above. The log may be wrapped in a sleeve which features a transparent window, so the coating can be viewed, especially if the coating is only applied to part of the log's surface.

Abstract: A web-based system that displays a plurality of web-based data files in a simulated animated format in a cost-effective and reliable manner is described. The web-based system includes a client system including a browser, a data storage device for storing the plurality of web-based data files, and a server system accessible by the client system and coupled to the database. The browser includes a viewer that sequentially displays the plurality of web-based data files to simulate an animation effect. The viewer creates an interactive animation of the web-based data files that is viewable without using additional browser plug-in software.

Abstract: A substrate processing chamber 30 comprising a first gas distributor 65 adapted to provide a process gas into the chamber 30 to process the substrate 25, a second gas distributor 215 adapted to provide a cleaning gas into the chamber 30 to clean the chamber, and an exhaust 90 to exhaust the process gas or cleaning gas from the chamber 30.

Abstract: A cellular telephone subscriber who wishes directory assistance services is connected in the conventional manner to an operator who identifies a destination telephone number desired by the subscriber. As in the prior art, the operator then initiates a call connecting the subscriber to the destination telephone number. However, rather than dropping all further involvement with the call, the preferred embodiment of the present invention continually monitors the connection thereby established for a predetermined DTMF signal issued by the customer, such as that obtained by pressing the “*” button. If such a signal is detected, the customer is transferred back to a directory assistance operator, who can then provide whatever further assistance is needed (e.g. redialing a busy number, or providing further directory assistance). Billing information for the calls originated by the directory assistance operator on the subscriber's behalf is logged in a database at the directory assistance center.

Abstract: A system and method for determining noise power levels across a range of frequencies of the optical signal output from a device operating at a specified optical power and drive current and, in particular, for determining relative intensity noise values (RIN). The system may comprise a reference laser for generating an optical reference signal and a photodetector for converting the optical signal output from the reference laser and the device under test into equivalent electrical signals. The system also comprises means for measuring ac and dc components of the electrical signals output from the photodetector. The system may be used to measure RIN levels to an accuracy of less than 1 dB. Such measurements are of particular importance in the field of fiber optic telecommunications. The reference laser is shot noise limited in the frequency range of interest, typically between 20 MHz and 20 GHz, and has a narrow linewidth, typically less than 5 kHz.

Abstract: A cellular telephone subscriber who wishes directory assistance services is connected in the conventional manner to an operator who identifies a destination telephone number desired by the subscriber. As in the prior art, the operator then initiates a call connecting the subscriber to the destination telephone number. However, rather than dropping all further involvement with the call, the preferred embodiment of the present invention continually monitors the connection thereby established for a predetermined DTMF signal issued by the customer, such as that obtained by pressing the “*” button. If such a signal is detected, the customer is transferred back to a directory assistance operator, who can then provide whatever further assistance is needed (e.g. redialing a busy number, or providing further directory assistance). Billing information for the calls originated by the directory assistance operator on the subscriber's behalf is logged in a database at the directory assistance center.

Abstract: A cellular telephone subscriber who wishes directory assistance services is connected in the conventional manner to an operator who identifies a destination telephone number desired by the subscriber. As in the prior art, the operator then initiates a call connecting the subscriber to the destination telephone number. However, rather than dropping all further involvement with the call, the preferred embodiment of the present invention continually monitors the connection thereby established for a predetermined DTMF signal issued by the customer, such as that obtained by pressing the “*” button. If such a signal is detected, the customer is transferred back to a directory assistance operator, who can then provide whatever further assistance is needed (e.g. redialing a busy number, or providing further directory assistance). Billing information for the calls originated by the directory assistance operator on the subscriber's behalf is logged in a database at the directory assistance center.

Abstract: A cellular telephone subscriber who wishes directory assistance services is connected in the conventional manner to an operator who identifies a destination telephone number desired by the subscriber. As in the prior art, the operator then initiates a call connecting the subscriber to the destination telephone number. However, rather than dropping all further involvement with the call, the preferred embodiment of the present invention continually monitors the connection thereby established for a predetermined DTMF signal issued by the customer, such as that obtained by pressing the “*” button. If such a signal is detected, the customer is transferred back to a directory assistance operator, who can then provide whatever further assistance is needed (e.g. redialing a busy number, or providing further directory assistance). Billing information for the calls originated by the directory assistance operator on the subscriber's behalf is logged in a database at the directory assistance center.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for designing and editing a distribution system for a building is disclosed. Elements of such distribution systems and requirements of relevant standard, are stored in a computer's memory. Building parameters are entered into a computer manually. The user identify the standard to be followed and the element to be optimized. The system divides the building into sections as appropriate to the user identified standard. The system then computes layout needed to comply with the selected standard. The layout is routed and sized to avoid building structural members, yet the elements of the layout are optimized for size and length. The apparatus prints out a hard copy of the design layout which can include an elements listing needed to complete the system. The design layout as well as the building parameters can be edited. The edited layout is checked for compliance with the identified standard as well as avoidance of building parameters.

Abstract: A process for the production of hydroxy-substituted oxazolidinones, particularly 5-hydroxyoxazolidinones, which are useful as intermediates in the synthesis of herbicidally active compounds, comprising treating a hydroxythiazolidinone with an oxidizing agent.

Abstract: A herbicidal compound of formula (I) ##STR1## or a salt, tautomer or cyclic derivative thereof; where R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are hydrogen and A is an optionally substituted saturated or unsaturated chain or ring of three carbon atoms.Methods for preparing these compounds, intermediates used in the preparation and herbicidal compositions containing them are also described and claimed.

Abstract: A deicing fluid recovery system for aircraft deicing apparatus includes a storage tank from which a deicing fluid/water deicing mixture is pumped through a line heater to a deicing fluid distribution and collection zone for application to the wings and fuselage of aircraft. Expended deicing fluid is collected in a drainage system incorporated into a concrete or asphalt pad and directed to a sump. Upon accumulation of a sufficient quantity, the diluted used deicing fluid is pumped to a sludge tank. Solids and free water are separated by settling and filtration processes in the sludge tank. The filtered deicing fluid mixture is heated through sequential heat exchangers and directed to a regenerator. The deicing fluid mixture is leaned by a dehydration process in the regenerator in which the mixture is heated and compressed air is injected to exhaust water from a stripping column. The lean deicing fluid flows over an overflow weir into an accumulator.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for designing and editing a distribution system for a building is disclosed. Elements of such distribution systems and requirements of relevant standard, are stored in a computer's memory. Building parameters are entered into a computer manually. The user identify the standard to be followed and the element to be optimized. The system divides the building into sections as appropriate to the user identified standard. The system then computes layout needed to comply with the selected standard. The layout is routed and sized to avoid building structural members, yet the elements of the layout are optimized for size and length. The apparatus prints out a hard copy of the design layout which can include an elements listing needed to complete the system. The design layout as well as the building parameters can be edited. The edited layout is checked for compliance with the identified standard as well as avoidance of building parameters.

Abstract: A cellular telephone subscriber who wishes directory assistance services is connected in the conventional manner to an operator who identifies a destination telephone number desired by the subscriber. As in the prior art, the operator then initiates a call connecting the subscriber to the destination telephone number. However, rather than dropping all further involvement with the call, the preferred embodiment of the present invention continually monitors the connection thereby established for a predetermined DTMF signal issued by the customer, such as that obtained by pressing the "*" button. If such a signal is detected, the customer is transferred back to a directory assistance operator, who can then provide whatever further assistance is needed (e.g. redialing a busy number, or providing further directory assistance). Billing information for the calls originated by the directory assistance operator on the subscriber's behalf is logged in a database at the directory assistance center.

Abstract: A process for the synthesis of a compound of general formula II: ##STR1## wherein: R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are each independently hydrogen or C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl;A is an aromatic or heteroaromatic ring system optionally substituted with one or more substituents as defined herein; and in which any ring nitrogen atom may be quaternised or oxidised;alternatively, any two substituents of the group A may combine to form a fused 5- or 6-membered saturated or partially saturated carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring in which any carbon or quaternised nitrogen atom may be substituted with any of the groups defined herein for A or in which a ring carbon atom may be oxidised;the process comprising cyclising a compound of general formula VII: ##STR2## wherein A, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are as defined for general formula II, R.sup.20 is hydrogen, benzyl or benzyl substituted with up to five substituents selected from halo, C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl, O(C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl) or nitro and R.sub.21 is C.sub.1 -C.sub.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of a compound of general formula II: ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 is hydrogen, or C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 hydrocarbyl or heterocyclyl having 3 to 8 ring atoms, either of which may optionally be substituted; each R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4 and R.sup.5 is independently hydrogen or C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl; A is an optionally substituted aromatic or heteroaromatic ring system; and R.sup.21 is hydrogen, halogen, OH or OCONHR.sup.1, wherein R.sup.1 is as defined above; the process comprising cyclizing a compound of general formula III: ##STR2## wherein A, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5 and R.sup.21 are as defined in general formula II and R.sup.25 is a leaving group such as a halogen atom; under basic conditions.

Abstract: A power supply for controlling voltage supplied to a microprocessor-based controller, for an internal combustion engine utilizing pulse position modulation to regulate output voltage during periods of high engine controller power demand and output voltage feedback to regulate power during low engine controller demand.

Abstract: A spreading system for spreading cloth in flat, aligned and vertically arranged layers on a spreading table comprising a reciprocally driven spreading machine arranged on a spreading table, and a stationary supply of cloth arranged near one end of the spreading table for supplying cloth to the spreading machine. An overhead cloth support and delivery assembly cooperates with the spreading machine and the cloth supply to support and deliver cloth drawn from the cloth supply to the spreading machine. The support and delivery assembly is supported for movement which is synchronous with the movement of the spreading machine by guides arranged longitudinally of the spreading table. The system operates so that longitudinal movement of the spreading machine away from the cloth supply draws cloth from the supply over the support and delivery assembly and delivers it to the spreading machine which spreads it on the spreading table.

Abstract: An ignition control circuit for an internal combustion engine having at least two spark plugs and two coils to provide a spark upon de-energization of the coils. The circuit also includes an output circuit connected to the coils to regulate current flow to energize the coils and a driver circuit connected to the output circuit to control the voltage to the output circuit in response to an input signal to the driver circuit.

Abstract: A wall mounting plate assembly simplifies installation while providing positive securement with a substrate such as a wall, ceiling, floor, duct work or like substrates and is particularly suitable for low voltage electrical connection applications. A plug portion is receivable within a port provided in a face plate which includes a tubular extension. The tubular extension acts as a guide for accommodating movement of the plug from a nonsecuring position to an engaging or operative position. Preferably, a spring bias is created as the plug is forced into the face plate which serves to draw the face plate towards wall engaging arms which moved outwardly past the tubular extension as the plug is moved to the engaging position. The assembly allows more convenient porting of the wall or substrate and simplifies installation.