Abstract: Updating data in a distributed system, in which a data coordinator receives a proposed change to a data element, locks the data element, and sends an invalidation command to nodes in the distributed system. If all nodes acknowledge the invalidation command, the data coordinator updates the data element locally and unlocks the data element. If not all nodes acknowledge the invalidation command, the data coordinator terminates the proposed change and unlocks the data element. Each node that invalidated the data element requests the data element. The data coordinator returns its current value. If the value is changed, all nodes request and receive the update. If a node did not invalidate, it will not request an update, but the value will not have changed so all requesting nodes receive the previous value. Thus, all nodes have the same value for the data element and consistency is maintained throughout the system.

Abstract: An operating system on a computer system can comprise a user space, which can comprise a persistent data store, and a kernel space, which can be extended by loading kernel modules. As provided herein, the kernel space can utilize kernel designated electronically addressed non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory) to cache data from the user space persistent store, for example, upon a boot event. The kernel space can further comprise a cache controller that can be used to populate the kernel electronically addressed non-volatile memory with kernel in-memory data caches that comprise user space persistently stored data. In one embodiment, the kernel space can further comprise kernel designated volatile main memory (e.g., RAM), which can be used in conjunction with the kernel electronically addressed non-volatile memory to cache user space persistently stored data. In this way, kernel modules may access user space persistent store data from the RAM and/or electronically addressed non-volatile kernel cache.

Abstract: An operating system on a computer system can comprise a user space, which can comprise a persistent data store, and a kernel space, which can be extended by loading kernel modules. As provided herein, the kernel space can utilize kernel designated electronically addressed non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory) to cache data from the user space persistent store, for example, upon a boot event. The kernel space can further comprise a cache controller that can be used to populate the kernel electronically addressed non-volatile memory with kernel in-memory data caches that comprise user space persistently stored data. In one embodiment, the kernel space can further comprise kernel designated volatile main memory (e.g., RAM), which can be used in conjunction with the kernel electronically addressed non-volatile memory to cache user space persistently stored data. In this way, kernel modules may access user space persistent store data from the RAM and/or electronically addressed non-volatile kernel cache.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a T-shaped wrench having three drive stems including a base drive stem wherein the top portion of the wrench has opposing ends or drive stems which are 30 degrees offset from each other. The angularly offset drive stems of the top portion allow the wrench to be used in tight areas where other wrenches are not usable.

Abstract: A container for holding a sample is presented. The container has a substantially cylindrical vial defining an interior cavity and a longitudinal axis. The vial has a first end, an opposed second end, and a circumferential sidewall. The first end of the vial is open for access to the interior cavity and the second end is closed. In one aspect, the circumferential sidewall has a first sidewall portion located proximate the first end projecting inwardly into the interior cavity, and a second sidewall portion positioned between the first sidewall portion and the second end projecting inwardly into the interior cavity.

Abstract: A vial package includes a tray having one or more spaced apart openings disposed therein with dimensions corresponding to a lower portion of a vial, and a lid having one or more spaced apart openings disposed therein with dimensions corresponding to an upper portion of the vial. The one or more bottom tray openings and the one or more lid openings are arranged such that the vial when disposed within the package is securely held in place.

Abstract: A process is provided for inspecting an absorbent article constructed from multiple components. A filtered image is produced from the absorbent article. In the image of the absorbent article, a nonlinear first edge and a second edge are identified at a location where there is a course change in contrast. A center point and centerline of the absorbent article is calculated using the position of the first edge and the second edge. A skew of the absorbent article is calculated. These known locations are utilized to define at least one additional region of the image for further analysis. A third edge and fourth edge are identified at a location where there is a fine change in contrast. The skew of the third edge and the fourth edge within the defined region is calculated and compared to known parameters for the absorbent article.

Abstract: This power supply system for a D.C. electrical load, such as an illuminated sign, is normally energized by batteries. A central processing unit monitors the battery voltage and when it falls below a predetermined magnitude, the central processing unit then activates a starter motor which cranks an engine coupled to it. The central processing unit also actuates a valve and fuel pump to pass fuel to the engine. The engine drives an alternator which produces A.C. voltage which is then rectified by aa rectifier to recharge the batteries. When the batteries are fully charged the central processing unit stops the engine. The central processing unit employs a microprocessor chip to control operations of the system.