Abstract: The recognition of a frame synchronization pattern or unique word of a received signal may be enhanced using a data-aided estimator of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) together with a correlation detector of the unique word to be received. Detecting a frame synchronization pattern or a unique word in a received signal, the SNR is estimated on the received signal with a data-aided SNR estimator using the unique word to be received. If the estimated SNR exceeds a certain threshold, an eventual recognition of the unique word established by a correlation correlator of the receiver is considered reliable. Comparing the SNR with the threshold may be carried out either before or after the correlator has processed the unique word.

Abstract: A method for determining a fan speed for a fan used to cool a payload is disclosed. The method includes, according to various embodiments, receiving a first signal indicative of a first fan speed and receiving a second signal indicative of a system temperature. The method further includes selecting a temperature setpoint based on the first fan speed and, based on a comparison of the system temperature and the selected temperature setpoint, computing a first fan speed output. A thermal management system and method for determining a speed-setpoint droop characteristic are also disclosed.

Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer comprises a stack having a first face, an opposed second face and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The stack comprises a plurality of layers, each layer having a top surface and an opposed bottom surface, wherein the plurality of layers of the stack comprises an upper unpoled piezoelectric layer, an underlying lower poled piezoelectric layer, and a dielectric layer. The dielectric layer is connected to the piezoelectric layer and defines an opening extending a second predetermined length in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of the stack. A plurality of first kerf slots are defined therein the stack, each first kerf slot extending a predetermined depth therein the stack through the upper piezoelectric layer and into the lower piezoelectric layer and a first predetermined length in a direction substantially parallel to the axis.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides to increase chemokine production. The present invention also provides methods for treating intestinal motility disorders and improving gastrointestinal function with Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides to increase chemokine production. The present invention also provides methods for treating intestinal motility disorders and improving gastrointestinal function with Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides to increase chemokine production. The present invention also provides methods for treating intestinal motility disorders and improving gastrointestinal function with Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides to increase chemokine production. The present invention also provides methods for treating intestinal motility disorders and improving gastrointestinal function with Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides to increase chemokine production. The present invention also provides methods for treating intestinal motility disorders and improving gastrointestinal function with Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides to increase chemokine production. The present invention also provides methods for treating intestinal motility disorders and improving gastrointestinal function with Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides to increase chemokine production. The present invention also provides methods for treating intestinal motility disorders and improving gastrointestinal function with Zven1 and Zven2 polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention provides a modular controller that connects to irrigation modules with varying station terminals and a standard footprint size. Additionally, the modular controller includes surge protection options, wireless communication with PDA's and other external devices, no required position for each controller module to be connected, immediate display of station modules on the LCD display, retention of a water program if module is removed, communications module for flow monitoring, a modular transformer, rain sensor receiver within the housing, an improved 9-volt batter holder, and other aspects described in the present application.

Abstract: A method for determining a fan speed for a fan used to cool a payload is disclosed. The method includes, according to various embodiments, receiving a first signal indicative of a first fan speed and receiving a second signal indicative of a system temperature. The method further includes selecting a temperature setpoint based on the first fan speed and, based on a comparison of the system temperature and the selected temperature setpoint, computing a first fan speed output. A thermal management system and method for determining a speed-setpoint droop characteristic are also disclosed.

Abstract: An emergency seat belt cutter for mounting in the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The cutter has a handle, a long and narrow blade mounted longitudinally in a blade support portion integral with the handle and lugs on the handle for engagement with a sheath. The sheath has a cylindrical interior with a mounting for the inside of the vehicle, a coil spring in the bottom of the cylindrical interior and bayonet connectors for engagement with the lugs. The cutter is inserted into the sheath with pressure and a counterclockwise rotation. The cutter is removed by again applying transverse pressure and turning in a clockwise direction wherein the coil spring expels the knife into a person's palm.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tool for thinning bunches of young berries comprising a cutter head for housing a cutter. The cutter head is constructed with guides to permit the user to excise selected laterals from the main stem of the bunch without nicking or scraping the main stem, or coming into physical contact therewith except at the tip thereof. The tool includes a handle for controlling the cutter head. The handle serves a double function in that it is also a measuring device which permits the worker to nip off the tip of the main stem touched by the worker doing the thinning process, at a predetermined length.