Abstract:
Apparatus and method of producing a halftone image reproduction of a continuous tone photograph. Scanning means is provided to scan the photograph to be reproduced along a series of scan lines. Incremental control parameters are provided in accordance with a reproduction ratio to define predetermined scan sample points for each scan line. Control means is provided for controlling the scanning means to produce successive sets of digital sharp and unsharp gray level data signals at the predetermined scan sample points proportional to the light reflected from successive concentric sharp and unsharp areas with the sharp area at each scan sample point corresponding to the general area of a predetermined portion of a halftone cell. The successive sets of digital sharp and unsharp gray level data signals are combined in accordance with a sharpness factor having a predetermined value in accordance with the original image being scanned to produce a succession of digital resultant gray level data signals which are processed into halftone digital data signals and applied to a photosensitive material to produce a halftone image reproduction of the continuous tone original photograph.
Abstract:
A disposable protective sleeve for an equine endoscope made from thin, flexible plastic used to cover the endoscope during examination of an equine patient in order to prevent cross contamination between equine patients. The distal end may optionally have a small pocket for collection of samples, such as mucous, for submission to a laboratory for testing.
Abstract:
A fluid handling system adapted to provide storage and supply of a number of liquid solutions to an automatic clinical analyzer having three different bottle-like containers, a collapsible plastic-metal-plastic pouch having a mouth-like opening, a fitment to be sealed within mouth-like opening a septum within the fitment, and open meal band or cap to seal the septum into the fitment.
Abstract:
An automated analyzer for analyzing patient samples. The analyzer includes a plurality of cuvettes, which allow the samples to be mixed with various reagents. The analyzer includes one or more detectors, including a detector adapted to detect luminescence of the reaction mixture in the cuvettes. The analyzer allows for various diagnostic assays to be performed on a single system, and provides for high-sensitivity analysis at faster speeds.
Abstract:
A working end of a catheter includes at least one therapeutic element, such as a resistive heating element, usable to deliver energy for ligating, or reducing the diameter of, a hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, the catheter includes a lumen to accommodate a guide wire or to allow fluid delivery. In certain embodiments, a balloon is inflated to place resistive element(s) into apposition with a hollow anatomical structure and to occlude the structure. Indexing devices and methods are also disclosed for successively treating portions of the hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, marks along the catheter shaft provide visual verification to the physician of the relative position of the therapeutic element of the catheter. Embodiments of indexing devices may include pairs of rings and/or hinged arms that move a catheter a desired indexed position between successive treatments.
Abstract:
A catheter assembly comprises a first branch body having a first axis, a second branch body extending in a non-parallel relationship with respect to the first axis, and at least one electrode carried by the second branch body. In use, the first branch body can be located within a pulmonary vein within the left atrium, while the electrode carried by the second branch body is located in contact with endocardial tissue outside the pulmonary vein. Ablation energy can be transmitted from the electrode to contacted endocardial tissue while the first branch body is located within the pulmonary vein.
Abstract:
A control system for a steam turbine driven chiller unit is provided. The control system automatically utilizes the full range of the governor, compressor pre-rotation vanes, and hot gas bypass valve capabilities to control the capacity of the chiller and provide anti-surge and override control functions to prevent undesirable operational ranges while maintaining maximum efficiency of operation.