Abstract: An ink loader for a phase change ink imaging device includes an automated access control system that enables ink stick insertion based on user initiated ink load requests with reference to the operating state of the imaging device.

Abstract: The present invention provides pharmaceutical formulations comprising a human antibody that specifically binds to human nerve growth factor (hNGF). The formulations may contain, in addition to an anti-hNGF antibody, at least one non-ionic surfactant, at least one sugar, and acetate. The pharmaceutical formulations of the present invention exhibit a substantial degree of antibody stability after storage for several months.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting larger-sized documents to smaller-sized documents in an image production device is disclosed and may include receiving a request to scan a larger-sized document, determining if the larger-sized document is to be converted to a smaller-sized-document, wherein if it is determined that the larger-sized document is to be converted to a smaller-sized-document, scanning the larger-sized document to obtain image data, combining the image data from each larger-sized document page into one continuous document, measuring a predetermined amount of image data from the one continuous document, positioning the predetermined amount of image data onto a smaller-sized document page, continue positioning the predetermined amount of image data onto a smaller-sized document pages until there is no more image data left from the one continuous document to position onto a smaller-sized document page, and one of storing the smaller-sized document in a memory and printing the smaller-sized docume

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method and apparatus for processing an audio signal are provided. In one example of the invention, an audio signal is received. The audio signal is classified as a high quality signal or a low quality signal based upon a determination of the bandwidth, signal source, and/or signal type of the audio signal. The audio signal is further processed responsive to whether the audio signal is classified as a high quality signal or a low quality signal.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method and apparatus for processing an audio signal are provided. In one example of the invention, an audio signal is received. The audio signal is analyzed to determine an interference level of the audio signal relative to a threshold interference level. Then the audio signal is processed with a lower quality codec or a higher quality codec responsive to the determination of the interference level of the audio signal relative to the threshold interference level.

Abstract: Systems and methods for establishing conference calls using a headset are presented. The headset includes a wireless communications transceiver operable to form a first local wireless link with a first local telephone in communication with a first far end telephone user and a second local wireless link with a second local telephone in communication with a second far end telephone user. The headset further includes a processor operable to establish a conference call between the headset user, the first far end telephone user, and the second far end telephone user.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for operably coupling a headset to one of a plurality of paired audio gateway devices. In one example, a headset includes a processor, an acoustic transducer, and an audio gateway selector operably coupled to the processor, the selector capable of providing a signal for selecting one of a plurality of paired audio gateway devices.

Abstract: One embodiment of a portable, manual, appendage muscle massager comprising a wrap (8) constricted by a tension-transfer member (10), such as a cable, and a manual actuator (14) which retracts the cable (10).

Abstract: A system and method that facilitates the resale activity of items is disclosed. In some embodiments, the system enables sellers to generate “for sale” record data using standardized item descriptions, individual item information, and/or seller-provided information. The generated “for sale” records are distributed by the system to online auctions and/or fixed-price network sites. The system generates customized offers and incentives for use in attracting prospective sellers and buyers, allows buyers to search one or more databases of “for sale” records, and assists with collection and escrow activities after a buyer and seller have agreed to complete a sale. To facilitate the delivery of an item once the item has been sold, the system provides item information and transaction information to a shipper to enable the shipper to ship packing materials to the seller. The seller may then ship the sold item to the buyer using the provided packing materials.

Abstract: Wireless systems having a plurality of physically and electrically-separated data sinks. An exemplary wireless system includes first and second data sinks having no physical or electrical connection therebetween. The first and second data sinks each include a wireless communication device, e.g., a radio frequency (RF) receiver or transceiver configured to receive data signals over one or more single-access wireless links or over a multi-access wireless link. The first and second data sinks in exemplary embodiments may comprise audio data sinks, e.g., stereo speakers, left-ear and right-ear earphones (e.g., earbuds or canalphones), left-ear and right-ear circum-aural over-the-ear headphones, etc. At least one of the first and second data sinks may also be coupled to a wireless transmitter and accompanying data source (e.g., a microphone or sensor), so as to provide, for example, two-way communications between a user and an external data device (e.g., a cellular telephone).

Abstract: The present invention relates to the conjugation of antimicrobial agents to water-soluble polymers to improve their clinical properties in terms of their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and reduced immunogenicity. More specifically, the present invention relates to the conjugation of antimicrobial agents such as lysostaphin to poly(alkylene oxides), such as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG).

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of bacteriology. In particular, the present invention provides compositions (e.g., comprising a lantibiotic and mupirocin or gentamicin) and methods of treating (e.g., killing or inhibiting growth of) bacteria. For example, the present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions (e.g., comprising a lantibiotic and mupirocin or gentamicin) and methods of using the same in research, therapeutic and drug screening applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of bacteriology. In particular, the present invention provides compositions (e.g., comprising a lantibiotic and mupirocin or gentamicin) and methods of treating (e.g., killing or inhibiting growth of) bacteria. For example, the present invention provides pharmaceutical compounds (e.g., comprising a lantibiotic and mupirocin or gentamicin) and methods of using the same in research, therapeutic and drug screening applications.

Abstract: Systems and methods for modifying mobile communication device settings are disclosed. The method generally includes providing a server at the headset, transmitting headset settings from the server to a client device, receiving modified settings, and implementing the modified settings.

Abstract: There is disclosed a closure comprised of a valve, a base unit and an upper unit. The base unit has a base surface with a peripheral skirt. The base surface has an aperture with a cylindrical section extending above and below the base surface. The cylindrical section has an aperture therethrough. The upper unit has an upper surface and an aperture adapted to align with the aperture of the cylindrical section of said base unit. The upper unit has a lid to cover the apertures in the base unit cylindrical section and the upper unit. A lid inner top surface has two projecting seals, one to maintain the valve closed when the lid is closed and the other to provide a seal when the lid is closed. and a latch mechanism attaches the base unit to the upper unit. A preferred latch mechanism comprises a projection and an interfitting recess, one being on the base section and the other on the upper section. The lid top surface preferably has an essential horizontal top surface.

Abstract: The dispensing of substances from multi-chamber containers, such as tubes, can be controlled by the placement of a flow modifying unit in the dispensing nozzle of the container. The dispensing nozzle will have a plurality of channels, usually one for each chamber. The flow controlling unit is a constriction at an intermediate point, a point between the channel inlet and exit, in at least one of the channels. This constriction is sized to adjust flow so that the viscous substance from each chamber is dispensed at a set flow rate and in a set ratio, one to the other. The constriction is formed at the time that the nozzle is formed. In the compression molding process a mold pin is used, the mold pin meeting a mold base at an intermediate point in at least one channel. The mold pin and or mold base has a recess that is the size and shape of the flow modifying constriction. Plastic is injected into the mold and the flow modifying unit is formed at the same time as the nozzle.

Abstract: 4-Phenylbutyrate exerts many beneficial biological effects. It appears to induce the transcription of certain promoters, as well as having a remedial effect on proteins which are aberrantly localized within the cell. In addition, it appears to cause cells to developmentally differentiate. The present invention provides nanosphere formulations of 4-phenylbutyrate and other drugs which remediate defective protein localization intracellularly. These formulations permit lower concentrations of drugs to be administered, providing both cost and safety benefits.