Abstract: A new and distinct almond variety of Prunus dulcis named ‘MATAN’, particularly characterized by self-fertility and production of high quality almond fruit with a large kernel.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Rubus plant named ‘BP1’ having large, easy to pick fruits with a long shelf life.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Erysimum plant named ‘Inneryrysistar’ that is characterized by large yellow flowers, a long flowering season, profuse flowering and a compact habit.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Dianthus hybrida, ‘Hope’, characterized by its clean, mounded, blue foliage, and its single flowers that are bright fuchsia in color.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Begonia boliviensis named ‘YAMINA’, characterized by its large single bright red flowers, its compact, freely branched and pendulant plant habit, and its good tolerance to wind and rain when grown as a bedding plant in open ground. ‘YAMINA’ has been observed to be mildew free under the conditions grown to date.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Gypsophila named ‘Pearl Blossom’ particularly characterized by vigorous growth potency and uniform flowering; high yields, especially after pruning; low artificial light requirements; relatively late flowering (9 to 10 weeks during summer and 14 to 15 weeks during late autumn); long, heavy, and stable branches that are of high quality year-round, pinching increases the stem number to a range of 7 to 9 heavy stems and up to 15 stems of medium size and weight; has big, white flowers that are full and of uniformly good quality year-round without distortion or color change; is convenient to harvest and use in floral arrangements; has a long vase life; and has good tolerance to Powdery Mildew, is disclosed.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to improve a conventional DPD method having a problem that a tracking servo becomes unstable due to a reduction in the accuracy of detecting a phase difference between short mark signals at an edge, in a case where the amplitudes of the short mark signals are very small, or where a readout signal contains large noise. To this end, the present invention provides a method for increasing the contribution ratio of long mark signals to generate a tracking error signal by causing a phase difference pulse to include information on a phase difference, and by causing the area of the pulse to be weighted according to the length of a mark/space adjacent to a concerned edge.

Abstract: An optical pickup apparatus compatible with at least two types of optical recording media, using light beams having respective different wavelengths for recording and reading information, the optical pickup apparatus including two laser light sources to emit light beams having the different wavelengths, a holographic lens including a holographic ring to transmit the light beams incident in an inner region of the holographic ring, and to diffract a specific light beam among the light beams emitted from the laser light sources incident in an outer region relative to the inner region, an objective lens to focus the light beams passed through the holographic ring lens on the respective information recording surfaces of the two types of the optical recording media, optical elements to alter optical paths of the light beams reflected from the information recording surfaces of the optical recording media to corresponding photodetectors.

Abstract: A method of allocating data transmission channels to a mobile station, in particular in half-duplex mode, in a mobile telecommunications network of the type using packet mode and having multiple access by multiplexing transmission channels, in which method the transmission channels allocated to a mobile station, respectively in a “down” direction from the network to the mobile station, and in an “up” direction from the mobile station to the network, can change at each “allocation period”, a transmission authorization received over a transmission channel in the down direction for a given allocation period indicating that the transmission channel is allocated in the up direction for the following allocation period; wherein a transmission authorization received over a transmission channel in the down direction for a given allocation period indicates that not only the transmission channel, also referred to as the authorization channel, but also consecutive transmission channels identifiable from the authorization

Abstract: In packet data transmission method, a packet data connection is indicated with a connection identifier and the destination of the packet data connection is indicated with a destination identifier. A destination identifier is involved in the initialization of a transmission queue, at least one connection identifier is related to each transmission queue, and a set of proper connection identifiers is the union of the connection identifiers related to the initialized transmission queues. A data packet having a proper connection identifier is placed (504, 505) to the corresponding transmission queue. The method is characterized in that the initialization of a new transmission queue is triggered (506, 508) by a data packet not having a proper connection identifier and having a destination identifier and after a successful initialization of a new transmission queue the data packet that triggered the initialization is placed (509) to the new transmission queue.

Abstract: A method of selectively providing MIMO transmission/reception in a WLAN system includes using a TSPEC reservation and signaling mechanism to instantiate and tear down, dynamically, multi-channel operation in a WLAN; providing an inference algorithm to determine the minimum number of channels required to establish a TSPEC using a MIMO WLAN system; providing specific channel parameters as parameters to be negotiated in the TSPEC; providing frame exchange sequences to be used in Enhanced Distributed Coordinated Access contention based access and to be used in polled access; and providing a mechanism wherein an access point makes a decision as to whether to admit MIMO functionality on a given link, wherein a “link” is a set of communications between two specific WLAN stations.

Abstract: A Pipelined-based Maximal-sized Matching (PMM) scheduling approach for input-buffered switches relaxes the timing constraint for arbitration with a maximal matching scheme. In the PMM approach, arbitration may operate in a pipelined manner. Each subscheduler is allowed to take more than one time slot for its matching. Every time slot, one of them provides the matching result. The subscheduler can adopt a pre-existing efficient maximal matching algorithm such as iSLIP and DRRM. PMM maximizes the efficiency of the adopted arbitration scheme by allowing sufficient time for a number of iterations. PMM preserves 100% throughput under uniform traffic and fairness for best-effort traffic.

Abstract: A picture type identifier, indicating one of intra-picture coding (an I-picture), forward or backward predictive coding (a P-picture) and bi-directionally predictive coding (a B-picture), is included with a picture signal when the signal is encoded and when the signal is decoded. Each of initial and subsequent encoding and decoding is a function of the included picture type.

Abstract: A stackable FBGA package is configured such that conductive elements are placed along the outside perimeter of an integrated circuit (IC) device mounted to the FBGA. The conductive elements also are of sufficient size so that they extend beyond the bottom or top surface of the IC device, including the wiring interconnect and encapsulate material, as the conductive elements make contact with the FBGA positioned below or above to form a stack. The IC device, such as a memory chip, is mounted upon a first surface of a printed circuit board substrate forming part of the FBGA. Lead wires are used to attach the IC device to the printed board substrate and encapsulant is used to contain the IC device and wires within and below the matrix and profile of the conductive elements.

Abstract: A network server system includes a download manager that manages the publication, purchase and delivery of digital content from multiple content suppliers to wireless services subscribers in multiple domains. Each domain is defined as a different grouping of subscribers, such as a wireless carrier or subsidiary thereof, a business enterprise, or other defined group of subscribers. The download manager maintains data defining the multiple domains and associations between the domains and wireless services subscribers. Digital content suppliers can publish and manage their products on the server system via a computer network and make their products available to the subscribers for purchase or licensing. The subscribers in each of the domains can access the server remotely to purchase rights to download and use the digital content on associated wireless communication devices.

Abstract: An electronic amusement device and a method for operating the device are disclosed. The device conducts a game of chance that preferably incorporates game elements that change and expire during the game. The device performs the steps of generating and displaying a subject game element having a first class. The step of displaying includes displaying an indicia of the first class. The device further assigns a second class to the subject game element, and displays the subject game element, thereby displaying an indicia of the second class.

Abstract: Disclosed are processes for the preparation of fused piperazin-2-one derivatives of general formula (I) wherein the groups R1 to R5, A1 and A2 have the meanings given in the claims and in the description, particularly the preparation of 7,8-dihydro-5H-pteridin-6-one derivatives and intermediates thereof.

Abstract: Adherent packed beds of ceramic beads, each comprising a ceramic body coated with a biodegradable polymer, and fabric bags containing such beads in a packed, self-supporting configuration. The polymeric coating provides some resilience to a packed bed of the ceramic beads, and prevents the beads from moving with respect to each other when placed under stress, leading to reduced breakage. The ceramic beads desirably are osteoconductive, and preferably are formed of a ceramic material that is resorbed during bone growth, such as hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate, or mixtures of these materials. The beads may contain, either internally or on their surfaces or both, a bone morphogenic protein, and the latter may also be included in the biodegradable polymer coatings on the beads.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus and method including hardware and software, which allows collecting and analyzing data to obtain information about mechanical properties of soft materials in a much faster way. The apparatus can be used as a stand-alone deice or an add-on to the existing AFM device. The apparatus allows collecting dynamical measurements using a set of multiple frequencies of interest at once, in one measurement instead of sequential, one frequency in a time; measurements.

Abstract: A method for determining e-mail address formatting rules corresponding to particular domain names, whereby e-mail address data is collected and sorted based on domains. Based on the gathered data for particular domains, a pattern is identified and an e-mail address formatting rule is determined. Format rule information is stored for future use to assist in correcting and directing e-mail messages so that they may be received by their intended recipients. Gathering of e-mail address data occurs by directly gathering e-mail addresses and e-mail address format data directly from entities responsible for the domain or format are derived based on patterns observed in collected address data for particular domains. Data for developing these patterns may be gathered from e-mail address information resident on the Internet, e-mail address information from e-mail address books, or from public e-mail address listings.

Abstract: A method and device for securing a removable Attached Computer Module (“ACM”) 10. ACM 10 inserts into a Computer Module Bay (“CMB”) 40 within a peripheral console to form a functional computer such as a desktop computer or portable computer. The present ACM 10 includes a locking system, which includes hardware and software 600, 700, to prevent accidental removal or theft of the ACM from the peripheral console. While ACM is in transit, further security is necessary against illegal or unauthorized use. If ACM contains confidential data, a high security method is needed to safeguard against theft.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method treat a neurological disorder by applying proprioceptive feedback to a wearer of a garment. Specifically, the garment includes one or more pressurizable reservoirs that, when pressurized, apply distributed pressure to the wearer. A system including the garment also includes a mechanism for pressurizing the reservoir and, optionally, a controller operable to control the pressurizing mechanism.

Abstract: A hockey helmet (20) comprising a front helmet portion (22) and a rear helmet portion (24) disposed to be moveable relative to each other so as to define an internal cavity of varying volume, a securing member (26) being mounted to a location on the front helmet portion (22) adjacent the temple thereof, the securing member (26) being slidable between a first or open position and a second or closed position, the rear helmet portion (24) having a restraint (28) configured and disposed to be complimentary to the securing member (26) such that when the securing member (26) cooperatively engages the restraint (28), the relative displacement of the front helmet portion (22) and the rear helmet portion (24) is inhibited. The restraint (28) comprises a number of positions in which the securing member (26) can be cooperatively engaged such that the volume of the helmet (20) may be modified.

Abstract: Protective elements may include a pair of material layers, a plurality of pad components, and a plate. The pad components may be located between the material layers, and the plate may be positioned adjacent to one of the material layers and opposite the pad components. Similar protective elements may also be utilized with apparel systems. For example, an inner garment may include the protective element, and an outer garment may extend over the inner garment. The outer garment may include an outer pad locatable to extend over the plate, and the outer pad may have a greater area than the plate.

Abstract: A modular cartridge based liquid dispensing system for automatically dispensing a metered amount of liquid(s) into a toilet water tank and/or bowl. This unique programmable system mounts onto a standard water tank, and is shaped to match the tank so that it blends well with the existing toilet design for aesthetics. It is designed to dispense one or a plurality of solution types, allowing any desired solution to be dispensed, such as cleaning solutions and deodorants. It uses replaceable liquid cartridges that can be refillable or disposable, and can also use fixed tanks. This invention can also utilize all of its components in a low-rise cabinet chassis that allows the entire system to be mounted inside the water tank where it is completely hidden from view. The system also has provisions for an optional automatic toilet flushing device and can also be used to dispense its liquids to a bidet apparatus.

Abstract: A spa pool assembly has a pool having an enclosing wall and a base that together defines an interior. The base has a plurality of inflatable sections that are divided by at least one air passage. A hose delivers air from outside the pool to the air passage, with the hose extending partially inside the enclosing wall and having a U-shaped section extending outside the enclosing wall at a vertical level that is higher than the top of the enclosing wall.

Abstract: Shoulder supports extend from a shower enclosure wall and support a shower accessory. The shoulders have an attachment on the side for the shower accessories. The selected shower accessory would have a mating attachment on each of its ends to correspond to two shoulders extending from the enclosure walls. The attachment is preferably a male/female indentation on one of the shoulders and shower accessory and a corresponding attachment on the other. The indentations provide a non-permanent attachment of the shower accessory to the supports so that the chosen accessory may later be removed and replaced if desired.

Abstract: A molded shower surround provides a base portion that receives wall portions and a corner portion. The corner portion includes a multiple of features such that the shower surround may be particularly tailored to customers' desires.

Abstract: A pumped drainage apparatus for a shower includes a waste water unit, a waste water inlet for accepting waste water runoff from a shower, a waste water outlet in fluid communication with the waste water inlet, a pump in fluid communication with the waste water unit, a sensing circuit including one or more sensors for sensing waste water, and a control circuit for controlling and varying a flow rate of the pump based on an output of the sensing circuit. The sensors may be isolated to prevent contact with waste water while the apparatus is in use. A variable flow control device for the pumped drainage apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: A height-adjustable shower waste for a bathroom floor having a non-flexible waterproof floor covering material, the shower waste comprising a waste body (12) for mounting in the bathroom floor and having a base (20), one or more sides extending from the base (20), a waste water inlet (26), and a waste water outlet (30) connected or connectable to a drain; a cover support element (16) on which a cover element (18) is or can be provided to cover the waste water inlet (26); distance setting means (54, 66) for selectively setting a distance between an in use upper edge of the cover support element (16) and the waste body (12); and retaining means (90, 104) for positively retaining the cover support element (16) at the said set distance. A method and an adapter device are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a transporting device for patients who are to be transported from a first site to a second site using low force. For this purpose is provided a firm board which can also be resilient, wherein this board is encompassed by an endless band. This endless band is adapted to the shape of the board and can slide around the board. The outer ends of the board are provided with caps which, on the one hand, lend the board high rigidity at the ends and, on the other hand, prevent body fluids from penetrating into the interspace between board and endless band.

Abstract: A transfer device has a carriage supported on a base, movable between a home position and an extended position. A table assembly includes a lower table fixed to the carriage and an upper table coupled to the lower table, movable between a downward position in forcible contact with the lower table and an upward position having no contact with the lower table. The table assembly moves toward the extended position with the tables in forcible contact to place the table assembly underneath the object to be transferred while keeping the base stationary. The plates are separated to lift the object on the upper table while the lower table remains resting upon the support surface. The table assembly returns to the home position while supporting the object on the upper table and keeping the upper and lower tables separated. The device may operate in a bidirectional manner.

Abstract: A device for the assisted loading of a stretcher (2) provided with a chassis (3), comprises at least one driving wheel (4) cinematically connected to a driving member (5) fed by feeding means (6) and controlled by control means (7) to activate the at least one driving wheel (4) at least during the loading of the stretcher into the ambulance.

Abstract: A medical examination table is provided. The medical examination table comprises a base providing a storage area, a patient support movable independent of the base between a lowered position and a raised position, and a lift mechanism coupled to the patient support for moving the patient support between the lowered position and the raised position. The patient support comprises a backrest and a seat. Movement of the patient support independent or separately from the base and without interfering with the storage areas within the base may allow for the efficient use of the examination table as a storage area.

Abstract: A lifting column comprising two or more telescopically arranged column elements, where each column element comprises at least two column sub-elements arranged symmetrically on either side of a first vertical plane, one set of sub-column elements closer to the plane than the other set of sub-elements, where the outer sub-elements are slidingly connected to adjacent inner sub-elements by means of guiding sledges, and further where each column sub-element comprises at least two pulley wheels, one upper and one lower, and further where one first continuous flexible member runs from an upper pulley wheel of a first sub-element to a lower pulley wheel on an adjacent sub-element, so that the first flexible member runs on the upper or lower pulley wheels of the innermost sub-elements on either side of the vertical plane, and that the flexible member is shortened or lengthened by rolling at least one end of the flexible member around a drive wheel on a rotatable axle of an actuating motor.

Abstract: A system for disposable, easily stored, single use, foldable backboard cushions for placement under a patient being transported by a medical backboard. The backboard cushions comprise an adhesive strip to removably adhere the cushion to a medical backboard during use. The cushions comprise living hinges to facilitate folding into a compact unit and unfolding for use. The system also provides a method whereby a choice of permeable or non-permeable cushions may be selected for use.

Abstract: A method of integrating a pillow, including stuffing, within an encapsulated mattress having a core and covering surrounding the core is disclosed. A mattress for use in institutions, such as correctional facilities, detention centers, rehabilitation centers, hospitals and the like, includes a core formed of a padding material, a pillow adjoining the core, the pillow containing stuffing, and a covering surrounding the core and the pillow. Also disclosed is a mattress including a core formed of a padding material, a pillow adjoining the core using a sleeve, the pillow containing stuffing, the sleeve retaining the pillow to the core, and a covering surrounding the core and the pillow.

Abstract: A system for transporting a span on a road vehicle capable of being transformed into an amphibious vehicle, enabling crossing of a dry or water-filled gap by any road vehicle. The vehicle for transporting the span is amphibious to allow any vehicle to cross a gap filled with water by transferring and transporting the vehicle on the span supported on the amphibious vehicle operating as a floating ferry. The invention is particularly applicable in the field of civil or military engineering.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush is provided. The electric toothbrush has a handle, a head with a carriers and a longitudinal axis, and a neck disposed between the handle and the head. A motor is disposed within the handle. A shaft is operatively connected to the motor. The shaft is operatively connected to the carrier to move the carrier in a first motion. The carrier is capable of moving in a second motion when subjected to user forces.