Abstract: The present invention relates to an x-ray tube that utilizes a stationary anode assembly. The stationary anode assembly includes an anode target portion that is disposed on the target end of an anode substrate. The anode target includes an overhang portion, that functions to prevent rebounding electrons from striking the underlying anode substrate that would otherwise result in the production of errant x-rays, and that also functions to block errant x-rays produced at the substrate from exiting the x-ray tube. Embodiments also include an anode target having a target surface that is formed with a contoured shape that functions to direct any rebounding electrons towards the center of the anode target surface, and away from the underlying anode substrate. The present invention is particularly useful in preventing a secondary electron stream from emitting errant x-rays that would compromise the particular quality of the x-ray that the x-ray device is designed to generate.

Abstract: Computer implemented training exercises present stimuli to a user and receive responses by the user to the stimuli. The stimuli are specifically selected to challenge and improve a cognitive ability of the user, e.g., the ability to perceive and understand spoken language. As a result, the stimuli cannot be changed or adapted to motivate the user through entertainment. Motivation is therefore provided by periodic reward animations which include persistent plots and characters. Progress indicators represent progress toward reward animations and represent such progression with smooth, entertaining progress animations. Randomly appearing animations and variations in rewards and immediate feedback add to the surprise and curiosity of the user and motivate further correct responses to see further random animations and variations. Progress indicators also represent a relation between the number of steps taking toward completion of a task and a maximum number of steps which should be needed to complete the task.

Abstract: Computer implemented training exercises present stimuli to a user and receive responses by the user to the stimuli. The stimuli are specifically selected to challenge and improve a cognitive ability of the user, e.g., the ability to perceive and understand spoken language. As a result, the stimuli cannot be changed or adapted to motivate the user through entertainment. Motivation is therefore provided by periodic reward animations which include persistent plots and characters. Progress indicators represent progress toward reward animations and represent such progression with smooth, entertaining progress animations. Randomly appearing animations and variations in rewards and immediate feedback add to the surprise and curiosity of the user and motivate further correct responses to see further random animations and variations. Progress indicators also represent a relation between the number of steps taking toward completion of a task and a maximum number of steps which should be needed to complete the task.

Abstract: Computer implemented training exercises present stimuli to a user and receive responses by the user to the stimuli. The stimuli are specifically selected to challenge and improve a cognitive ability of the user, e.g., the ability to perceive and understand spoken language. As a result, the stimuli cannot be changed or adapted to motivate the user through entertainment. Motivation is therefore provided by periodic reward animations which include persistent plots and characters. Progress indicators represent progress toward reward animations and represent such progression with smooth, entertaining progress animations. Randomly appearing animations and variations in rewards and immediate feedback add to the surprise and curiosity of the user and motivate further correct responses to see further random animations and variations. Progress indicators also represent a relation between the number of steps taking toward completion of a task and a maximum number of steps which should be needed to complete the task.

Abstract: A method and device for detecting the presence, absence or amount of an analyte in a whole blood sample is disclosed. The device comprises four zones, a sample receiving zone, a labeling zone, a capture zone and an absorbent zone. The sample receiving zone contains an irreversibly immobilized reagent that allows for removal of substantially all red blood cells from the whole blood sample. Flow through the device is via capillary migration and all of the dissolved or dispersed components in the sample flow at substantially equal rates and with relatively unimpaired flow through the device. The method involves the use of the device for detection of analyte in a whole blood sample.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for vertically scoring a tamper-indicating plastic closure includes a rotatably-driven carousel which includes mandrel assemblies at the periphery thereof. Each mandrel assembly includes a rotatable mandrel on which a respective closure is positioned in operative association, so that the mandrel and closure are moved relative to an associated scoring mechanism. The scoring mechanism includes at least one, and preferably a plurality, of rotatably driven scoring blades, with each blade arranged to engage and cut the pilfer band of a respective closure. Significantly, the system can be operated so as to closely approximate the preferred radial movement of the blade with respect to the closure, thus minimizing "digging" of the scoring blade into the plastic of the closure.

Abstract: An eye bolt for a bicycle cantilever brake system is modified by the enlargement of the shoulders of the head, so that they no longer set within the contoured adjustment washer and the addition of a device to hold the brake shoe stud within the eye. Generally this device would include a threaded hole oriented transversely to the eye and a cooperative set screw. This combination allows the brake shoe stud to be held firmly in place in the eye shaft. With this configuration, the brake shoe may be replaced or adjusted without undoing the nut which retains the eye bolt, thereby allowing the firm retention of the contour adjustment washers during the operation.

Abstract: An identifier generator produces unique identifiers for objects in a distributed computer system by concatenating (i) the identifier of the node associated with the object--a unique space component; (ii) the current time read from an associated clock, adjusted such that no two identifiers created by the same generator have the same current time, regardless of the resolution of the associated clock--a unique time component; and (iii) a random name-sequence; and (iv) a (software/hardware) version number. The generator stores the time and the random name-sequence components. When the next identifier is generated, the generator compares the then current time with the stored time component. If the times are equal, the current time is adjusted and the adjusted time is used as the new identifier time component. If the current time is less than the stored time, the generator changes the stored random name-sequence component and uses it and the current time as identifier components.