Abstract: A transfer apparatus (1) for transferring a plurality of discrete articles (3) between a first location and a second location is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a transfer beam (9) comprising at least one article receiving means (10), adapted to be positioned adjacent the first location (7a) to receive at least one article. The transfer beam is also adapted to be adjacent the second location (7b) to discharge the at least one article. First and second bridging conveyors (12a; 12b) are located adjacent the second location and spaced apart such that the transfer beam is movable between the first and second bridging conveyors. A method of transferring articles using such an apparatus is also disclosed. Preferably the articles are abrasive discs.

Abstract: A transfer apparatus (1) for transferring a plurality of discrete articles (3) between a first location and a second location is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a transfer beam (9) comprising at least one article receiving means (10), adapted to be positioned adjacent the first location (7a) to receive at least one article. The transfer beam is also adapted to be adjacent the second location (7b) to discharge the at least one article. First and second bridging conveyors (12a; 12b) are located adjacent the second location and spaced apart such that the transfer beam is movable between the first and second bridging conveyors. A method of transferring articles using such an apparatus is also disclosed. Preferably the articles are abrasive discs.

Abstract: Compounds of formula (I) ##STR1## in which R and R' are each separately selected from aliphatic hydrocarbon groups, aryl groups and aliphatic hydrocarbon groups substituted by an aryl group, are of value for use in medicaments for the control of free radical induced damage arising from reperfusion injury in tissue, particularly heart damage.

Abstract: A diagnostic test can determine the occurrence of myocardial infarction or the total plasma antioxidant status as a marker of predisposition to such an event, or the antioxidant status of other clinical and non-clinical samples. The test involves contacting a clinical sample in the presence of myoglobin and an oxidant therefor with a compound which reacts in that environment to form a chromogenic species with a characteristic absorption band in the visible spectrum spaced from potentially interfering bands attributable to haem proteins and other blood components.

Abstract: A catalyst for the oxidation of carbonaceous particulates carried in a gaseous phase, for example for the treatment of Diesel engine exhaust emissions, comprises a substrate for permitting flow of the gaseous phase therethrough coated with a high surface area ceramic oxide (for example alumina made by a vapor phase condensation method such as flame hydrolysis), cerium(IV) oxide, and a compound such as an oxide, carbonate or nitrate of an element of Group 1A of the Periodic Table. The substrate may be in the form of a ceramic honeycomb such as of cordierite, or of metal sheets (e.g. of an aluminium bearing ferritic alloy) shaped and wound to define gas flow channels, or of ceramic or metal foams, particles or wires in random or structured arrangement. The catalyst may include other components (e.g. transition metals such as Co, Cu, and Mn; Pb; and precious metals such as Pt and Pd) for enhancing performance.

Abstract: A heat pipe or thermal siphon having an internal surface shaped to promote thin film evaporation therefrom. The internal surface consists of a number of equi-spaced longitudinally extending ribs which define grooves between them, and the ribs may be of rectangular, semicircular, or triangular form. In use the bulk of the condensate in the thermal siphon is pulled by surface tension effects into the corners of the grooves, and leaves a thin film of the condensate between the rivulets. An assembly of heat transfer fins is attached externally one at each side of the heat pipe or thermal siphon for air flow therethrough transverse to the length of the heat pipe or thermal siphon, and a number of such assemblies are clustered together with a silicone rubber sealing strip between them at about the center of each assembly to divide the cluster into two sealingly separated portions.

Abstract: A method of making a spark plug which is suitable for use in an internal combustion engine. The method comprises the steps of providing a tubular outer sheath of corrosion and erosion resistant metal and locating a thermally conductive core in the bore of the sheath. The sheath is worked down onto the core and the exposed end of the core is covered over by melting the outer sheath.