Abstract: A system for performing a competitive assessment including a method for evaluating at least one operation associated with a market sector is disclosed. The method includes determining a first entity and at least one second entity, each performing the at least one operation within the market sector to separately produce a desired output. The method also includes compiling data indicative of the first entity and the at least one second entity respectively performing the at least one operation. The method also includes determining a first value and at least one second value as a function of the compiled data. The first and at least one second value are indicative of a respective ability of the first and the at least one second entity to perform the at least one operation. The method further includes evaluating the at least one operation as an advantage of the first entity over the second entity with respect to the market sector if the first value is greater than the at least one second value.

Abstract: An optoisolator device is shown having a die attachment device with a planar surface. A first circuit die has first and second planar surfaces and a first side surface. A receiver circuit and a first photodiode are formed on the first planar surface of the first circuit die, where the first photodiode is electrically coupled to the receiver circuit. The second planar surface of the first circuit die is attached to the planar surface of the die attachment device. A second circuit die has a transmitter circuit that includes a first light emitting diode and is attached to the die attachment device in a position adjacent to the first side surface of the first circuit die. A clear plastic layer is formed on the planar surface of the die attachment device over the first and second circuit dies. An opaque layer may be formed over the clear plastic layer.

Abstract: The invention is a themed puzzle calendar game, and its associated processes, that teaches and/or tasks a user to interact with a set of pieces and a board. The invention consists of front artwork, pieces, and a base board. Pieces are placed in predetermined positions onto the base board. Each piece and the underlying base board have matching indicia facilitating where each piece is to be placed. The pieces and board teach users information and/or task a user to do certain things. The pieces can be held in place on the base by an adhesive means including but not limited to magnets, Velcro®, electrostatic material, vinyl, or other means or material.

Abstract: A towelette assembly includes a flexible towelette and a barrier material. The towelette is pre-moistened with a first fluid, and includes a cavity, an external surface, and an opposite internal surface. The cavity is defined at least partially within the towelette by the internal surface. The barrier material is positioned at least partially within the cavity. The barrier material encapsulates a second fluid within the cavity such that the barrier material is between the towelette inner surface and the second fluid. The barrier material is substantially impervious to the first and second fluids.

Abstract: Means of teacher teaching and pupil learning to spell words and sentences, with code marked alphabet letters and code marked word and sentence lanes.

Abstract: A waterflood oil recovery process, in which a mixture of petroleum sulfonate and alkoxylated alcohol sulfate surfactants is injected into a reservoir to displace oil, is improved by using a sulfate surfactant that contains at least one chain-branching substituent on a carbon atom alpha or beta to the sulfate group. In a reservoir that is relatively hot, the improved process provides good oil-displacement efficiency and polyvalent metal ion compatibility in addition to improved stability towards hydrolytic decomposition of the sulfate surfactant.