Abstract: A ski or snowboard has a lower running surface and comprises means for attaching a boot to the ski or snowboard, a deformable lubricant reservoir, and means for conveying lubricant from the reservoir to the running surface, the arrangement being such that, in use, an attached boot can exert pressure on the reservoir to deform the reservoir and drive lubricant from the reservoir, via the conveying means, to the running surface. The means for conveying lubricant is preferably arranged to convey lubricant from the reservoir to a plurality of positions on the running surface, via one or more porous members that each have an outer surface which forms part of the running surface. A corresponding lubrication method is described.

Abstract: A group fo liquid crystalline compounds defined by formulas (1) and (2) including polymers, monomers, oligomers and intermediates for their preparation. Also included are symmetric and non-symmetric poly(dimethylsiloxy) compounds having end groups derived from Formulas (1) and (2).

Abstract: Liquid crystal compounds of formula I may be used by themselves or they may be mixed with other liquid crystal compounds to give useful liquid crystal mixtures which may then be used in liquid crystal devices. The materials exhibit smectic mesophases and may therefore be used in ferroelectric, ferrielectric, antiferroelectric, themochromic and electroclinic devices. They may also be used as long pitch materials.

Abstract: Dioxane derivatives for use as components in liquid crystal devices (LCDs) of general formula (A), wherein X is CH or B; R.sup.1, R.sup.2 are each A.sup.1, OA.sup.1, OCOA.sup.2, or COOA.sup.2 ; A.sup.1 is a straight or branched chain alkyl group containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms and may be substituted with one or more F or CN. A.sup.2 is a straight or branched chain alkyl group containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms and may be substituted with one or more F or CN and if straight may be unsubstituted. Y.sup.1, Y.sup.2, Y.sup.3 may each be (CH.sub.2).sub.p, (CH.sub.2).sub.p COO or OCO(CH.sub.2).sub.p ; p is from 0 to 10, n is 0 or 1, m is 0 or 1, either or both of Z.sub.1 and Z.sub.2 are F and, when not F, are H; Y.sup.4 is a covalent bond or, when n is 0, may be (a) LCDs, containing the devices exhibit very fast switching speed, bi-stable characteristics, enhanced greyscale and storage capabilities and a wide viewing angle.