Abstract: The present light-receiving circuit provides a function capable of adjusting the temperature dependence and the output of the bias supply circuit independently. The light-receiving circuit includes a bias supply circuit, a voltage divider and a temperature compensation circuit that adjusts a division ratio of the voltage divider so as to depend linearly on the temperature. The temperature compensation circuit has a differential amplifier operating in the inverting mode, and a temperature-sensing resistor that connects the inverting input to the output of the differential amplifier. Since the temperature-sensing resistor has a linear dependence on the temperature and is connected as a feedback resistor, the output of the differential amplifier also depend linearly on the temperature.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for increasing the quality of digital images produced by systems using uncorrected lenses where in-focus elements in the image space of the lens are detected and recorded as directed by data in a lookup table that specifies where light from addresses in the lens specimen plane come to focus in the lens image space.

Abstract: Exemplary methods, apparatuses, media, and arrangements enable the implementation of one or more features in electronic devices that have (e.g., display) screens that are capable of light emission and detection. These features include, for example, scanning, (simulated) touch-screen sensitivity, and ambient light determination and compensation. The display screens may be comprised of light emitting/detecting elements, such as diodes, that can emit light for visual display and can detect light for receiving light information data. In certain described implementations, a method for implementing a feature using a display screen with emitting/detecting elements includes the actions of: activating multiple elements of an array of elements to emit light; activating multiple elements of the array of elements to detect light; producing detected light data representing the light detected by the multiple elements that are activated to detect light; and processing the detected light data to implement the feature.

Abstract: Optical imaging systems and methods use polarized illumination and a coordinated pupil filter to achieve high contrast. An imaging system includes a light source to generate light for illuminating an object having features aligned in a first direction and features aligned in a second direction, a lens for imaging the illuminated object onto a surface, a spatial selection device, such as a pupil filter, selective in a first mode of light corresponding to features of the illuminated object aligned in the first direction and selective in a second mode of light corresponding to features of the illuminated object aligned in a second direction, a polarization device optically coupled to the spatial selection device and selective in the first mode of s-polarized light corresponding to the first direction and selective in the second mode of s-polarized light corresponding to the second direction, and a controller for selecting operation in the first mode or in the second mode.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of spatial visualization of a scene or an object, in which several views of the scene or object are decomposed into bits of partial information, which are made optically visible by image rendering elements, and in which neighbored image rendering elements emit light of different wavelengths or wavelength ranges, and in which propagation directions for the light are given by means of wavelength filters in such a way that an observer will see predominantly bits of partial information of a first selection of views with one eye and predominantly bits of partial information of a second selection with the other eye. The invention is intended to improve the quality of spatial visualization.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining a physical parameter affecting an optical sensor or a number of sensors in a network. The apparatus uses a narrow linewidth source at an emission wavelength &lgr;e and an arrangement for varying the emission wavelength &lgr;e of the radiation. An analysis module with curve fitting is used to generate a fit to the response signal obtained from the optical sensor. The physical parameter is determined form the fit rather than from the response signal. The apparatus can be employed with Bragg gratings, etalons, Fabry Perot elements or other optical sensors.

Abstract: A position measuring device having a scanning device and a scale, wherein the scanning device is movable in relation to the scale in a measuring direction. The scale including a measuring graduation, wherein periodic measuring signals are generated when the scanning device scans the measuring graduation and a reference marking, wherein a reference marking signal is generated when the scanning device scans the reference marking with a scanning beam bundle. The scale further includes a first optically scannable area marking next to the reference marking and a second optically scannable area marking next to the reference marking and which has a different optical deflection property than the first optically scannable area marking, wherein photoelectric scanning of the first and second optically scannable area markings with the scanning beam bundle from the scanning device generates an area signal that differentiates characteristics of the first and second optically scannable area markings.

Abstract: An optical encoder whose environmental resistance is improved by increasing the variety of options of materials for a resin-made code plate thereof. Used as material for at least a code pattern of the code plate of the optical encoder is one which meets the condition that the material has spectral transmittance of 70% or more with respect to detection light and that of 50% or less with respect to partial light (for example blue light) of visible wavelengths in translucent sections. If infrared light having wavelengths between 800 nm and 1000 nm is used as detection light, it is preferable to apply polyetherimide, polyethersulfone or polyphenylsulfone as a colored resin material. These materials are excellent in heat resistance, oil resistance, etc., compared to transparent and colorless materials (PMMA, PC, glass, etc.) which have been conventionally used, and hardly cause melting, deformation, white turbidity, etc., in a harsh environment.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an optical sensor design and method for continually interrogating that sensor to produce an accurate representation of a dynamic event (such as a change in strain, pressure or temperature) being monitored by the sensor. The sensor design preferably constitutes continuous wave optical source/detection equipment coupled in series to a first fiber Bragg grating (FBG), a long period grating (LPG), and a second FBG formed in an optical waveguide. The LPG broadly attenuates light in the vicinity of the Bragg reflection wavelength &lgr;2B of the second FBG, and this attenuation profile shifts in wavelength in accordance with the dynamic event being monitored. Perturbation of the attenuation profile thus attenuates the intensity of the light reflected from the second FBG, i.e., I(&lgr;B2), because such reflected light must pass (twice) through the LPG. Accordingly, continually monitoring I(&lgr;B2) as a function of time allows the dynamic event to be recreated and processed accordingly.

Abstract: A laser microscope comprises a laser light source which emits a laser light, an objective lens which condenses the laser light from the laser light source onto a specimen, an optical scanning unit which two-dimensionally scans the laser light on the specimen, a beamsplitter which separates light emitted from a condensed position on the specimen of the laser light from the laser light source, the beamsplitter being disposed between the objective lens and the optical scanning unit, an optical fiber in which an incident end is disposed at an optical path separated by the beamsplitter, and to which the light from the specimen is made to be incident, and a spectroscope which is disposed at an exit end of the optical fiber, and to which light from the specimen which is emitted from the exit end is made to be incident.

Abstract: An optical transmitter of the invention comprises a thermoelectric module, a light emitting device, and a light receiving device. The thermoelectric module comprises a first plate, a second plate, and a thermoelectric transducer. The first plate is made of insulating material. The second plate includes a first region and a second region, and at least the first region is disposed opposite to the first plate. The thermoelectric transducer is interposed between the first plate and the second plate, and is in contact with the first plate and the first region. The light emitting device is supported by the first plate. The light receiving device is mounted on the second region of the second plate, and receives portion of light emitted from the light emitting device.

Abstract: The phantom for quality control used to perform verification of performance and invariance of a radiation imaging system includes substrates and image quality evaluation patterns fixed to the substrates. The patterns is photographed with the system and images obtained by photographing is evaluated based on image quality evaluation items. A coefficient of linear expansion &agr;p of each of corresponding patterns fixed to each of the substrates and a coefficient of linear expansion &agr;s of each of the substrates to which the corresponding patterns are fixed, are in a relation of |&agr;p−&agr;s|≦5×10−5.

Abstract: The present invention relates to mass spectrometers capable of performing electron (or positron) capture dissociation, methods of performing tandem mass spectrometry, methods of performing electron capture dissociation, and methods of performing positron capture dissociation. In one embodiment, a mass spectrometer capable of performing electron or positron capture dissociation is provided that comprises a first mass analyzer, a magnetic trap downstream of the first mass analyzer, a second mass analyzer downstream of the magnetic trap, and an electron or positron source positioned such that electrons or positrons may be supplied to the magnetic trap.

Abstract: A hazardous material detection system that can suppress occurrence of contamination due to ionization. When a sensor detects that a test sample has entered an inspection region of an X-ray inspection device as a belt conveyor moves, a corona discharge power supply in a hazardous material detection device is turned on for a constant time, to introduce a gaseous sample containing a substance stuck to the test sample into the hazardous material detection device via a sucking section and gaseous sample introduction piping, in order to ionize the gaseous sample and analyze it at an analyzer, based on a result of which analysis, a data processor decides whether the gaseous sample contains a hazardous material, to display a decision result on a screen. When the test sample is detected by an exit side sensor, the corona discharge power supply is turned off.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for desorption and ionization of analytes for the purpose of subsequent scientific analysis by such methods, for example, as mass spectrometry or biosensors. More specifically, this invention relates to the field of mass spectrometry, especially to the type of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization, time-of-flight mass spectrometry used to analyze macromolecules, such as proteins or biomolecules. Most specifically, this invention relates to the sample probe geometry, sample probe composition, and sample probe surface chemistries that enable the selective capture and desorption of analytes, including intact macromolecules, directly from the probe surface into the gas (vapor) phase without added chemical matrix.

Abstract: Method and apparatus, including computer program products, implement techniques for operating a mass spectrometer that includes a source of ions, a mass analyzer, and a detector, in which a gain of the detector or the number of ions detected by the detector is calculated based on intensity measurements for ions having a plurality of different m/z values. In particular implementations, the detector gain or the number of ions detected by the detector can be calculated based on a ratio of or difference between intensity values for at least two of the ions having different m/z values.

Abstract: A mass spectrometer is disclosed wherein ions are passed through an ion mobility separator and are then mass analysed by a Time of Flight mass analyser. Multiple sets of mass spectral data are obtained which are then post-processed so that mass spectral data relating to ions having undesired charge state(s) is filtered out. The resultant mass spectrum comprises ions having a desired charge state.

Abstract: Ion source assemblies for generating ions for laser desorption mass spectrometry. An ion source assembly includes a target for receiving analyte samples and a plurality of rods. The rods define an interior volume having an axis extending away from a surface of the target for transporting ions. One or more of the rods include an aperture defining an opening through a cross-section of the rod. The aperture is configured such that a laser beam can pass through the aperture to irradiate a location on the target surface to generate ions from an analyte sample deposited at the location.

Abstract: A new mass spectrometer (10) is described in which sample molecules (26) are ionized and caused to oscillate to and fro by reflecting electric fields established between two electrodes (12, 14) in a vacuum chamber (20). A mesh electron producing electrode (16) is located between reflector electodes (12, 14) and produces electrons by secondary emission on each pass of the oscillating ions when some of those ions strike the mesh. The secondary eldctrons are detected (18) after passage through reflector electrode (12), which is alos a mesh. The frequency of oscillation of the ions depends upon their mass and from the frequency distribution of the signals from each electron production event it is possible to identify the ions of different masses. The invention allows for a much more compact spectrometer instrument compared to a Time of flight Mass Spectrometer which is less expensive than a Fourier Transform Mass emplying ion-cyclotron resonance.

Abstract: The invention features a method including: i) confining ions to stable trajectories within an ion trap; ii) exciting a subset of the ions along at least one transverse coordinate; iii) rotating the transverse excitation into an excitation along an axial coordinate; and iv) transferring at least some of the axially excited ions from the ion trap along the axial coordinate. For example, the ions may be transferred to an ion detector or to a subsequent ion trap.

Abstract: Provided are a sample holder for laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry and a method of manufacturing the sample holder. The sample holder includes a metal plate and a thin layer, which is formed on the metal plate and onto which a sample to be analyzed is loaded. The thin layer is formed of a carbon-based material, such as carbon or graphite. The thin layer is deposited on the metal plate by arc-discharging carbon rods and sputtering carbon atoms emitted from the carbon rods onto the metal plate or by coating the metal plate with a carbon or graphite paste, which is a mixture of carbon or graphite powder and a volatile solvent. Accordingly, it is possible to rule out any possibilities of a matrix or silicon oil having undesirable influences on a mass spectrum of the sample, easily and precisely measure not only a polymer but also a low molecular weight material with a molecular weight of 500 Da or lower, and precisely analyze the mass of the polymer without using an ionization additive, such as salt.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods that include a flow-cell that includes porous conductive material(s) that provides a working electrode(s), an inlet connected to the flow-cell to deliver a solution containing an analyte(s), an outlet connected to the flow-cell to allow the solution to exit the flow-cell, a counter electrode positioned proximate to the outlet, and a voltage source(s) coupled to the working electrode(s) and the counter electrode. The methods can include delivering a solution containing an analyte(s) through an inlet to a flow-cell that includes porous conductive material(s) that provides a working electrode(s), connecting the flow-cell to an outlet for allowing the solution to exit the flow-cell, placing a counter-electrode proximate the outlet, and supplying a voltage from a voltage source(s) to the working electrode(s) and/or the counter-electrode.

Abstract: Improvements have been made for collecting, focusing, and directing of ions and/or charged particles generated at atmospheric or near atmospheric pressure sources, such as but not limited to, electrospray; atmospheric pressure discharge ionization, chemical ionization, photoionization, and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization; and inductively coupled plasma ionization. A multiple-aperture laminated structure is place at the interface of two pressure regions. Electric fields geometries and strengths across the laminated structure and diameters of the apertures; all of which act to optimize the transfer of the ions from the higher pressure region into the lower pressure region while reducing the gas-load on the lower pressure region. Embodiments of this invention are methods and devices for improving sensitivity of mass spectrometry when coupled to atmospheric, near atmospheric, or higher pressure ionization sources by reducing the gas-load on the vacuum system.

Abstract: A Q-pole type mass spectrometer can be used under a high-pressure atmosphere of more than 0.1 Pa. The Q-pole type mass spectrometer can analyze the mass of gas molecules continuously, and can separate mass properly even if an ion is injected at high speed in order to reduce the influence of an end electric field near an end face (fringing) of the Q-pole. The motion of the ions to be measured in the diameter direction is independent of the motion of ions in the axial direction within the Q-pole region of the Q-pole type mass spectrometer. In the Q-pole type mass spectrometer installed in a reduced pressure atmosphere, the motion of ions to be measured in the axial direction advancing from an ion source toward a collector, is controlled within the Q-pole region so as to separate the mass of the ions to be measured by Coulomb force generated by a quadrupole high-frequency electric field in the diameter direction.

Abstract: Multipole rod assemblies for guiding or trapping ions in a mass spectrometer. A multipole rod assembly includes a plurality of modules. Each module includes a shield element, one or more insulating elements coupled to the shield element, and one or more multipole rods mounted on the insulating elements, wherein the modules are coupled together to form the multipole rod assembly such that the multipole rods of the modules define an interior volume for guiding or trapping ions.

Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus, including computer program products, for operating a quadrupole ion trap in mass spectrometry. A calibrated resonant frequency is determined for precursor ions in a first ion population in an ion trap. A frequency adjustment is determined for the precursor ions in a second ion population based on the number of ions in the second ion population. The ion trap is operated using an adjusted resonant frequency that is based on the calibrated resonant frequency and the determined frequency adjustment.

Abstract: Apparatus for reducing sensitivity of an article to mechanical shock comprises a frame; first and second planar masses mounted in the frame for bi-directional movement relative to the frame along a first axis of displacement; a first lever pivotable about a first fulcrum secured to the frame; the lever having one end connected to the first mass and the other end connected to the second mass, and the fulcrum being disposed between the ends of the lever; whereby the torque exerted about the fulcrum by the first mass is countered by the torque exerted about the fulcrum by the second mass in response to a mechanical shock applied to the frame along the axis of displacement such that an article carried by the first mass in use has reduced sensitivity to the shock.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for coating nanoelectrospray emitters. The method involves providing a nanoelectrospray emitter body and evaporating an electrically conductive material under conditions effective to form a thin layer of the electrically conductive material onto the nanoelectrospray emitter body.

Abstract: A thin specimen producing method of the invention is to acquire a work amount in a 1-line scan by an FIB under a predetermined condition, also to measure a remaining work width of a thin film on an upper surface of a specimen by a microscopic length-measuring function, to determine a required number of scan lines of work to reach a predetermined width by calculation, and to execute a work to obtain a set thickness. The work amount in a one-line scan by a FIB under the predetermined condition is determined by working the specimen in scans of plural lines, measuring the etched dimension by the microscopic length-measuring function, and to calculate an average working amount per one-line scan.

Abstract: An electron-beam device having a beam generator for generating an electron beam, an objective lens for focusing the electron beam on an object, and at least one detector for detecting electrons scattered on the object or emitted by the object. Furthermore, a detector system for detecting electrons is described. With an electron-beam device having a detector system according to the present invention, it is possible to make a selection in a simple manner, in particular according to backscattered and secondary electrons. At the same time, as many electrons as possible may be detected using the detector system. For this purpose, the electron-beam device exhibits at least one adjustable diaphragm which is allocated to the detector. The detector system exhibits a detector on which a reflector for reflecting electrons onto the detector is accommodated.

Abstract: Sample preparation apparatus and method includes a wafer stage platform with an optical microscope and integrated pattern recognition to automatically address specific locations on the wafer sample of interest. A laser attaches to the optical microscope to mill a set pattern around the area of interest. A precision micro-manipulator engages the sample support structure, extracts the structure, and places the structure in a TEM holder or holder tip. The holder or holder tip can then be placed inside a FIB for final thinning, followed by direct transfer into the TEM.

Abstract: A file format for storing IR images together with other types of data, such as camera settings, text information, and sound is disclosed. An apparatus and a method for bundling and analyzing data obtained via an IR camera and for determining actions to be taken based on the data are disclosed, as well as a method for gathering data.

Abstract: The invention concerns methods for processing a signal emitted by a particle detector. Said methods are characterised in that they consist in: detecting in said signal the portions where the signal is greater than a predetemined value V1, measuring the maximum value Vmax reached by the signal in each of said portions, and associating with each of said portions an analog quantity which, at least in a predetermined range of values &Dgr;V1 of said maximum value Vmax, is an increasing function of (Vmax−V1). The invention is applicable to various devices and appliances implementing said methods.

Abstract: A hand-held sound source for use in an infrared or thermal imaging system that detects sub-surface defects in a structure. The sound source includes a transducer that is positioned against the structure to emit a sound signal into the structure. The sound source further includes an adjustable spring that pushes the transducer against the structure with a predetermined amount of force so that the sound energy is effectively coupled into the structure. The sound source also includes three stabilizing legs that stabilize the transducer on the structure. The length of each leg can be adjustable relative to the length of the other legs so that the sound source can be used against irregular surfaces.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring the relative amounts of 235U and 238U in the gaseous phase of UF6 using tunable diode laser spectroscopy (TDLS). The invention is a faster, more accurate method for making such measurement. The improved method involves using methane (CH4) or acetylene (C2H2) as a calibration gas, and using a Fabry-Perot interferometer to calibrate the laser frequency, to determine the relative amounts of 235U and 238U in UF6 gas within ±0.27% accuracy, for example 7.00%±0.27%. The sample time required for such measurement is about one second.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for the detection of ethylene oxide in a sample of gas, such as air. The system includes a light source operating at a wavelength where molecules typically found within air absorb light at a substantially lower level than ethylene oxide molecules. Exemplary wavelengths are in the range of approximately 1.6-2.2 &mgr;m, and in particular at 1.6 &mgr;m, 1.645 &mgr;m, 1.692 &mgr;m, 2.195 &mgr;m, 2.2 &mgr;m, 2.216 &mgr;m, passes through the sample of gas to be detected by a detector. In one embodiment, the light source is a tunable diode laser or a VCSEL and the ethylene oxide level is determined using harmonic spectroscopy.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the sensitivity, angular resolution and range of motion detectors, occupancy sensors and similar systems are described. Specifically, an improved infrared input and detection section is described which utilizes two dual-detectors configured to optimally operate equivalent to a single quad-detector.

Abstract: Application of power transmitting technique by a microwave is disclosed. A multiplicity of electric power receiving patch devices (3000) is stuck on an electric power receiving vest (2200). The electric power receiving patch device (3000) converts the microwave transmitted from a base station (100) directly into an electric current, and supplies the electric current converted to a portable information terminal (1100). Since the portable information terminal (1100) operates using electric power transmitted by radio, the portable information terminal (1100) does not require a battery and a charger.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid-state X-ray detector comprising a photosensitive sensor associated with a radiation converter, known as a scintillator, transforming the X-rays into a radiation to which the sensor is sensitive, and an entry window through which the X-rays pass upstream of the scintillator. The entry window is mounted on the scintillator, without being fixed to the scintillator, and the entry window and the sensor are fixed by a water vapor-tight seal. The scintillator consists of a support, distinct from the sensor, and a scintillating substance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining crystallization in a very small amount of a material of interest (eg a chemical or biological material of interest).

Abstract: Various aspects of the invention provide improved approaches and methods for efficiently:

Abstract: Plural movement/motion tracking regions on surfaces of an animal are determined based on movement/motion for quantifying (a first step). Coating including a dye or a fluorescent material is applied on the plural movement/motion tracking regions (a second step). An image of the organism are captured under light irradiation (especially under irradiation of an ultraviolet ray for nocturnal animals) (a third step). In the captured image, plural marking areas are discriminated, and representative point locations of the marking areas are decided (a fourth step). A fifth step is carried out for determining the specific movement/motion based on plural representative point location data and for outputting them. A computer apparatus is configured for executing these steps.

Abstract: In a radiation image storage panel having a stimulable phosphor layer which contains a stimulable powdery phosphor and a binder, it is advantageous to employ a stimulable powdery cerium activated lutetium silicate phosphor represented by the following formula (I):

Abstract: A substrate positioning system is provided to facilitate the performing of certain processing on the substrate, such as ion implantation. The system comprises a linkage rotatably mounted to a base and an end effector member rotatably mounted to the linkage and configured for receiving a substrate. Through the synchronized rotation of the linkage about the base and the end effector member about the linkage, the system acts as a robotic unit to move the substrate to the desired location for performing processing thereon. In another aspect, the base is movable along an axis such that the system maintains a constant distance of travel for an ion beam incident on the substrate as the linkage and end effector member travel in a curved path.

Abstract: An apparatus for irradiating surfaces includes an electron beam generator for generating a beam of electrons. The beam of electrons exits the electron beam generator through an exit window. A robotic device moves the beam of electrons over the surfaces to irradiate selected regions of the surfaces. The robotic device includes a propulsion system for propelling the robotic device.

Abstract: A high heat-radiating structure of a gas sensor is provided. The gas sensor includes a sensing element which is to be exposed to a measurement gas and a body in which the sensing element is installed. The body has an outer wall which includes a gas-exposed surface and an air-exposed surface. The gas-exposed surface is to be exposed to the measurement gas. The air-exposed surface is to be exposed to an atmospheric air. At least a portion of at least one of the air-exposed surface and the gas-exposed surface has an emissivity of 0.7 or more, thereby enhancing the heat radiation from inside to outside the body of the gas sensor to protect less heat resistant parts from thermal damage.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and device for applying radiation to a wound cavity resulting from a lumpectomy. The device comprises a non-deformable body of PTFE or similar material, with a rounded head and elongate stem or handle. The stem defines a channel which extends to the centre of the head for receiving a radiation source from a High Dose Rate, Remotely Controlled After-loading Brachytherapy Unit (HDRRCABU). The head of the device is inserted into the wound cavity and the wound is closed, so that the tissue forming the wound cavity is given a precisely controlled dose of radiation in a matter of minutes/hours rather than days/weeks.

Abstract: A radiation shield sheet includes a raw utilizing sheet, which includes a plurality of fibers and a plurality of matrixes reinforced together to define a predetermined crossed structure having a plurality of trapping meshes formed between the fibers and matrixes respectively, and a shielding layer, which is made by a predetermined amount of radiation inadmissible material capable of attenuating an intensity of a predetermined electromagnetic radiation, coated on an exposure surface of the raw utilizing sheet, wherein a portion of the shielding layer is captured in the trapping meshes so as to securely bond the radiation shielding layer on the raw utilizing sheet.

Abstract: Fabric wrinkles are automatically evaluated using a reliable, accurate, affordable, and efficient system. Two algorithms are used, the facet model algorithm and the plane-cutting algorithm, to extract features for evaluating wrinkles in fabrics. These algorithms eliminate the need for independent evaluation of a fabric specimen by a technician.

Abstract: A radiation image detector capable of producing an appropriate synchronization signal for reading out image signals from the detector with a simple structure. A synchronization signal generating electrode is provided in parallel with the striped electrode comprised of a plurality of linear electrodes for reading out the radiation image, which is formed such that a section greater than or equal to a threshold size and a section smaller than the threshold size in width in the direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the striped electrode are disposed alternately in the longitudinal direction of the striped electrode, and the sections greater than or equal to the threshold size are disposed in the longitudinal direction at a predetermined pitch. Charges that change cyclically in amount are read out from the radiation image recording section through the synchronization signal generating electrode to generate the synchronization signal.