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Artist Spotlight: Elisar von Kupffer's Gay Eden
Elisar von Kupffer (1872-1942) dedicated his life to a spiritual vision of a perfect world of male love. Most of his writing, art, and painting supported his utopian view of a dreamy youthful bonding between men in an idyllic setting.
To be sure, men of his social standing in life were permitted greater freedom and self-expression. Focusing on the quasi-intellectual side of his philosophy — Klarismus (clarity) — gave his somewhat campy, if not kooky version of a perfect world the safe patina of religion. It was a dreamy world of harmony, eros, and androgynous aesthetics.
He established himself as a muralist in Locarno, Switzerland, with his partner, Eduard von Mayerm and together they created the Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion, a combination museum, temple, and artistic retreat in their villa at the Lake Maggiore.
In the center of the villa is a round room that houses his heroic mural Klarwelt der Seligen. The painting depicts 84 nude, youthful men in various states of ethereal ecstasy and affection. There is a series of poems for each grouping and panel of the mural.
These were not the brawny and intimidating Aryan heroes who were soon to be emblematic of the Third Reich. These were cherubic boys that spanned the distance between masculine and feminine. Von Kupffer's vision was not antiwoman. In fact, he believed encouraging men to engage freely in affectionate homosocial friendships would allow them to experience a greater bond with the women in their lives.
In 1981 the Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion was established as a museum to house von Kuppfer's work.
Drei Seelen, 1913
Modeled by von Kupffer (with cane) and a model Sulla Spiaggia
Von Kupffer and Eduard von Mayer
Self-portrait as Prinz Carneval
Self-portrait as Prinz Carneval, the painted version
Elisar von Kupffer as Saint Sebastian
The Grapes of Tessin
Young men at play in shorts, garters, and what appears to be an early skort.
Ikone Clarismo
An interior shot of Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion
An interior shot of Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion
The pavilion that houses Klarwelt der Seligen
A panel from Klarwelt der Seligen
A panel from Klarwelt der Seligen
A panel from Klarwelt der Seligen
A panel from Klarwelt der Seligen
Elisar von Kupffer


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Pittsburgh Steelers Training Camp Competition: RB Baron Batch vs. RB Chris Rainey
by Neal Coolong on Jun 28, 2012
Admittedly, the running backs are in for a "one vs. all" battle, and breaking them out individually is a bit convenient. But given the similar skill sets of both RB Baron Batch and RB Chris Rainey, it's hard not to compare the two.
That's a good thing for each of them.
With starter Isaac Redman clearly established as the starter while RB Rashard Mendenhall rehabs a torn ACL suffered in January, the depth of the Steelers' backfield will be challenged. Neither Batch nor Rainey can boast the same all-around skill set as Mendenhall, but they have excellent speed, good hands and both have as good a chance as any to make this roster.
Rainey could have an advantage going into camp due to his kick return ability - something he did at a high level while at the University of Florida. What the 2012 5th round pick lacks in size he makes up with his speed, but more specifically, he's a decisive player - his cut-backs on kick-offs show purpose and a willingness to take a hit if it means a chance to get outside and get fast.
Batch, a training camp phenom a year ago before an ACL tear of his own derailed the season, has drawn praise already from offensive coordinator Todd Haley. Batch may be behind Rainey in terms of speed, but he's a little bit bigger and has already shown Steelers coach Mike Tomlin he's a willing football player.
Considering Haley had a running back catch at least 40 passes in each of the two and a half seasons in Kansas City, where he was the head coach, it stands to reason having more than one back who can leverage speed with hands to become a multi-purpose weapon.
It's fully possible both of these players make the team in 2012, but if it came down to the two of them, the question would be answered based on what Rainey shows in the return game.
A difference of 30 lbs. gets you from Danny Hrapmann to Ike Taylor to Rashard Mendenhall to Heath Miller to Brett Keisel to Willie Colon to Alameda Ta'Amu. A difference of 30 lbs. would also get me in shape again, but that's beside the point.
1 CB Vernon Hargreaves Florida 5-10 204
2 DT Austin Johnson Penn State 6-4 314
3 SS Jeremy Cash Duke 6-0 212
4 LB Jaylon Smith Notre Dame 6-2 223
6 WR Moritz Boehringer Germany 6-4 227
7 OT Brandon Shell South Carolina 6-5 324
7 RB Tre Madden USC 6-0 223
DE David Onyemata, LB Ian Seau, FS Jordan Lomax, CB DeAndre Elliott,
QB Jeff Driskel, TE David Morgan, OG Spencer Drango, OC Mike Matthews
2015 MNF Executive Champion!
There is a roster spot for both...last year the Steelers carried 6 WRs, 4 RBs and 3 TEs...
We'll just have to see how it shakes out...
1 CB Vernon Hargreaves Florida 5-10 204
2 DT Austin Johnson Penn State 6-4 314
3 SS Jeremy Cash Duke 6-0 212
4 LB Jaylon Smith Notre Dame 6-2 223
6 WR Moritz Boehringer Germany 6-4 227
7 OT Brandon Shell South Carolina 6-5 324
7 RB Tre Madden USC 6-0 223
DE David Onyemata, LB Ian Seau, FS Jordan Lomax, CB DeAndre Elliott,
QB Jeff Driskel, TE David Morgan, OG Spencer Drango, OC Mike Matthews
2015 MNF Executive Champion!
No hesitation from Batch
Posted by Teresa Varley on July 29, 2012
Running back Baron Batch has waited almost a year to get back to hitting in pads, and after doing it for two days he impressively is right back in the swing of things.
It felt good, said Batch. It felt good to get back out there and start hitting again with the pads on. Its been roughly a year since I have been in the pads and I have been anxious to get out there and it felt good.
Batch suffered a season-ending knee injury in training camp last year, bringing his rookie year to a quick halt. When he took the field for the first time on Saturday he said there were some thoughts about contact in the back of his mind, but after the backs-on-backer drill that quickly went away.
That is probably one of the most physical drills we do in camp, said Batch. Being able to do that helps with confidence, getting hit with what I went through.
Coach Mike Tomlin was pleased with what he saw out of Batch on the first day of hitting.
I like the fact that there was no hesitation in his play, said Tomlin. For a guy thats coming off a knee injury, I thought he moved with authority and trusted his knee, not only in competition periods but in individual work. You get an opportunity to see those things when theyre working with Coach (Kirby) Wilson as running backs. Hes a sharp young guy and hes coming back nicely.
So far Batch has been trying to go through practice without wearing a protective brace or sleeve on his knee.
One of my goals for coming back off this was to be able to go through OTAs and minicamp and be able to come back out here and not have to wear a brace, said Batch. Ive met those goals and it feels good, and I wont have to wear a brace.
Steelers notebook: Baron Batch showing off physicality
By Mark Kaboly
Published: Friday, August 3, 2012
At 5-foot-10, 210 pounds, Baron Batch isnt the biggest running back on the Steelers roster. But the second-year player out of Texas Tech stood tall during the backs-on-backers drill Friday night. Batch won or was even all six times he ran the drill and was physical every time. Batch beat Mortty Ivy, Ryan Baker and smacked the helmet off Adrian Robinson. Also looking good on offense were David Johnson and Jonathan Dwyer.
Lawrence Timmons and Chris Carter stood out for the defense.

subset: commoncrawl


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|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Aug 3, 2004
|Filing date
|Mar 9, 2000
|Priority date
|Mar 9, 2000
|Fee status
|Publication number
|Michael A. Duckett, John C. Bliley, Gerald J. Kielar, Sayed Sadiq Shah, Anthony W. Raymond
|Original Assignee
|Steris Inc.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (24), Non-Patent Citations (2), Referenced by (10), Classifications (45), Legal Events (6)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
The present invention relates to the chemical cleaning arts. It finds particular application in conjunction with the removal of baked on residues from sterilizers, and will be described with particular reference thereto. It should be appreciated, however, that the invention is also applicable to the cleaning of residues from other processing equipment, such as pharmaceutical, food, and beverage equipment, and the like.
Steam sterilizers are generally operated at a pressure of about 2 kg/sq. cm (30 psi) and a temperature of around 130� C. Over a period of time, the chamber walls become coated with a residue comprising baked on materials, such as boiler compounds, lint, debris, tape and packaging materials used to wrap medical devices being sterilized. These residues interfere with the efficient operation of the sterilizer or may be dislodged from the chamber walls and soil the sterilized items.
The baked on residues are difficult to remove. Mechanical methods have been used to remove the residue, but these are labor intensive. It takes approximately 6-8 hours to mechanically clean one sterilizer. In one method, the chamber walls are blasted with a stream of glass beads. An air compressor, which is parked outside the facility and connected to the glass bead equipment by a long air line, powers the equipment. The chamber is tented to contain the beads and dust generated. A ventilation hood, supplied by a separate air compressor, is worn by the operating technician. The surface of the chamber walls is often left in a roughened condition which is difficult to polish to a smooth finish.
In another method, a hand-held grinding/polishing wheel and an abrasive compound are used to remove the residue. The grinding wheel is usually powered by an air compressor, as for the glass bead method. The sterilizer is tented to contain dust generated in the process and breathing equipment is worn by the technician performing the cleaning. In the process, weld joints and studs in the sterilizer may be damaged and additional time is taken to repair the damage. For nickel plated sterilizer chambers, the polishing process may remove the thin nickel plating (typically around 0.5 millimeters in thickness, or less) exposing the underlying carbon steel to subsequent corrosion. On stainless steel sterilization chambers, damage to weld joints is a problem.
The present invention provides a new and improved method and cleaning composition for cleaning baked-on residue from a vessel which overcomes the above-referenced problems and others.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method for cleaning residue from a surface of a sterilizer chamber is provided. The method includes contacting the surface with an alkaline cleaning composition which consists of between about 10 and 30% of an alkaline component and water. The method further includes separately contacting the surface with an acid cleaning composition which consists of between about 10 and 55% of an acid component and water. The steps of contacting the surface with the acid and the alkaline cleaning compositions are carried out for sufficient time to substantially clean the surface of residue.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a two part composition for removing baked-on residues from a surface is provided, the residues comprising both organic and inorganic substances. The composition includes a cleaning solution for removing the organic substance which includes between about 10 and 30% of an alkaline component, 0.1-5% of a surfactant, 3-20% of a chelating agent, and water. The composition further includes a cleaning solution for removing the inorganic substance which includes between about 10 and 55% of an acid component, 0.1-5% of a surfactant, 0.2-10% of a chelating polymer, and water.
One advantage of the present invention is the provision of an easily portable cleaning system.
Another advantage of the present invention is that a sterilizer is cleaned and ready to be returned to service in about two to four hours.
Yet another advantage of the present invention is that the cleaning compositions are contained within the system and pose few hazards to operating technicians.
A further advantage of the present invention is that a neutralized product is formed after cleaning which may be disposed in the normal waste system.
A yet further advantage of the present invention is that the cleaning compositions do not have a significant negative influence on the nickel plate on the sterilizer walls.
A still yet further advantage of the present invention is that the system is adaptable to a variety of sterilizer shapes and sizes.
Still further advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments.
The invention may take form in various components and arrangements of components, and in various steps and arrangements of steps. The drawings are only for purposes of illustrating a preferred embodiment and are not to be construed as limiting the invention.
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a cleaning system in position on a sterilizer, in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the equipment housing of the system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the equipment housing of FIG. 2 with some of the housing panels removed;
FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the equipment housing of FIG. 2 with the housing panels removed;
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cleaning system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a sterilizer with the lid of the system of FIG. 5 positioned for attachment over the opening;
FIG. 7 is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of part of a cleaning system according to the present invention;
FIG. 8 is an alternative embodiment of a cleaning solution supply tank in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a part of a cleaning system in position on a sterilizer, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 10 is an a schematic view of an alternative cleaning system in position on a sterilizer, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a portable system A for cleaning residues from the interior walls 10 of a sterilizer chamber 12 is shown. The system is particularly suited for cleaning nickel clad sterilizer chamber walls, although it may also be used for cleaning stainless steel sterilizer chambers.
With reference also to FIGS. 3-5, the system A includes a cart 20 for transporting the system to the sterilizer to be cleaned. The cart includes a housing 22 with an interior support frame 24 and a base shelf 26, a top 28, and four housing panels, namely, an upper front panel 30, a rear panel 32, and two side panels 34 and 36, respectively. The rear, left, and right side panels 32, 34, extend generally vertically between the base and the top and form the rear, and left and right sides of the housing, respectively. The front panel 30 cooperates with the top, side, and rear panels to form a housing enclosure or upper compartment 38. The front panel extends only part way down the front of the cart to provide access to a tank storage area or lower compartment 39 below the housing enclosure, as shown in FIG. 2. Two (or more) spaced wheels 40 are mounted to a rear end of the housing adjacent the base 26 for maneuvering the cart around a facility. Additional wheels may be positioned at the front of the cart for improved stability. A handle 44, mounted to the top of the housing is used for directing the cart.
The housing 22 holds the operating equipment 48 of the system A in the upper compartment 38 and one or more reservoirs or tanks 52,54 of cleaning fluid in the lower compartment 39. The reservoirs comprise disposable or refillable containers which are filled with cleaning solutions. The containers are formed from a relatively rigid material, such as plastic, which is not degraded by the cleaning solutions at the temperatures used.
With particular reference to FIGS. 1 and 4, the operating equipment 48 includes a high pressure pump 60 for pumping a selected cleaning solution to the chamber 12 of the sterilizer and a scavenge pump 62 for removing the cleaning solution from the chamber. The operating equipment also includes an in-line heater 64, a temperature sensor 66, and, optionally, inlet and outlet strainers or filters 68 and 70, respectively, for filtering particles of dirt from the cleaning solution. As shown in FIG. 1, the heater 64 includes a heating coil 72, which heats the cleaning solution to a suitable temperature for cleaning, preferably about 55-70� C. at the sterilizer chamber walls, although other methods of heating and heating temperatures are also contemplated. The temperature sensor 66 measures the temperature of the cleaning solution just prior to it entering the sterilizer. A control system 74, such as a computer control system or other solid state control system, receives temperature signals from the sensor 66 and regulates the in-line heater 64 accordingly. As shown in FIG. 3, the control system 74 is mounted to the outside of the housing on the rear panel 32, although other suitable locations are also contemplated.
With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, a demountable lid 80 closes an opening 82 in the sterilizer chamber during cleaning. As best shown in FIG. 6, the lid includes a flat plate 83 which is fixed to an end ring 84 of the sterilizer by fixing members, such as clamping bolts 86. The end ring is typically formed from monel and is not exposed to the conditions within the sterilizer chamber 12 during sterilization. Thus, it remains relatively free from tarnish or deposits. The bolts include blocks 88, which are fixed to an outer surface 90 of the lid plate 83. The blocks are spaced from the outer edge of the lid plate. Swivel headed screws 92, tapped through the blocks and lid plate, turn threaded feet 94 mounted to the screws on the inside of the lid plate until they engage the inside surface of the end ring 84 of the sterilizer to position the lid.
A suction-tight fit between the end ring 84 and the lid 80 is provided by the scavenger pump 62. Specifically, during cleaning, the scavenger pump is set to create a sub-atmospheric pressure within the sterilizer chamber (i.e., a slight negative pressure), thus sealing the lid 80 against the end ring 84. This provides containment of the cleaning solutions and their vapors. To achieve the pressure differential, the scavenger pump 62 pumps the cleaning solution out of the chamber 12 at a higher rate than the high pressure pump 60 pumps it in. Optionally, a sealing member 98, such as a gasket, is fitted between the end ring and the lid. Preferably, the gasket is glued, or otherwise attached to an inside surface 100 of the lid plate around the perimeter thereof. An air bleed line 104, with a valve 106, is connected with the lid plate 83 for releasing the pressure inside the chamber 12 once cleaning is complete to facilitate removal of the lid.
The lid plate 83 is sized according to the size of the chamber opening 82. Commercial sterilizers often have openings of 16″�16″ (about 40 cm�40 cm), 20″�20″ (about 50 cm�50 cm), or 24″�36″ (about 60 cm�90 cm). Accordingly, it is desirable to provide several, interchangeable lids 80 of different plate sizes for servicing different size chambers. Preferred lid plates are formed from plastic or stainless steel and have a thickness of about 0.3-1.0 cm. The lids are stored on the cart 20 when not in use. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, a storage bin 108 is mounted for this purpose on the side panel 36 of the cart, although it is also contemplated that the bin could also be accommodated on the rear or front panels of the housing 22.
With reference once more to FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, a first, or inlet fluid line 120 carries the cleaning solution from a selected one of the cleaning solution reservoirs 52, 54 via the high pressure pump 60, the heater 64, and the temperature sensor 66, to the lid 80. The heater preferably heats the fluid to a temperature suitable for cleaning the sterilizer, generally above about 18� C. The inlet fluid line passes through a first, centrally positioned opening 122 in the lid plate 83 to a nozzle 124 releasably mounted to the chamber side 100 of the lid plate. When not in use, the nozzle 124 is stored in the storage bin 108, as shown in FIG. 5.
With particular reference to FIGS. 2 and 5, a disconnectable portion 128 of the first fluid line 120 between the housing 22 and the lid 80 is preferably formed from a length of flexible hose with quick connector couplings 130A, 132A at first and second ends, respectively, for quickly connecting with corresponding quick connector couplings 130B and 132B, on the front panel 30 of the housing and on the lid 80, respectively. When not in use, the hose 128 is uncoupled from the lid and the housing quick connectors 132B, 130B and stored on a hose reel 134 mounted on one of the side panels 34 of the housing, as shown in FIG. 2.
A first three way valve 136, such as a directional ball valve, in the fluid inlet line 120 is fluidly connected between the two cleaning solution reservoirs 52, 54 and the high pressure pump 60 for selectively delivering cleaning solution from one of the cleaning solution reservoirs 52, 54 to the chamber 12. Optionally, a manually operated valve 140 in the fluid inlet line 120 allows the inlet line to be closed, in case of accidental leakage of fluid, such as from the sterilizer chamber.
With particular reference to FIG. 5, the nozzle 124 sprays the cleaning solution over the walls 10 of the sterilizer chamber. A preferred nozzle is one which systematically sprays the entire surface of the chamber walls such that an even coverage of the cleaning solution is obtained. The nozzle may have one or more spray heads 142. A particularly preferred nozzle includes an articulating spray head 142, which is articulated for rotation about two perpendicular axes C, D (i.e., it rotates in three axes). The articulation is powered by the pressure of the cleaning solution entering the nozzle 124, such that over a period of a few minutes, the spray head 142 makes a series of rotational passes which provide complete coverage of the chamber walls 10. The nozzle includes a rigid tubular portion 144 which releasably connects the spray head with the interior surface 100 of the lid plate by quick connect 132B, or other convenient means. The tubular portion 144 is of a suitable length for positioning the spray head 142 at or near the center of the sterilizer chamber 12. Spray heads with different length tubular portions 144 may be stored in the cart storage bin 108 for accommodating sterilizers of different lengths.
The high pressure pump 60 preferably supplies the cleaning solution to the nozzle 124 at a high pressure (around 2 Kg/sq. cm). This provides the spray with mechanical cleaning action which assists in removing the residue from the chamber walls. The spray head preferably delivers cleaning solution at a pressure of 3.5-85 Kg/cm2, or greater, and at a flow rate of 25-160 liters per minute, or greater.
With reference once more to FIGS. 1 and 5, a second, return fluid line 150 connects the sterilizer chamber 12 with the reservoirs 52,54 via a second, lower opening 152 in the lid plate 83, the outlet strainer 70, and scavenger pump 62, in sequence. While FIG. 1 shows the heater 64 in the inlet line, it is also contemplated that the heater may be positioned in the return line 150, or elsewhere in the system.
The sterilizer includes a drain fitting 164, which is positioned at the lowest point of the sterilizer chamber. The cleaning solution sprayed from the nozzle 124 drips off the walls 10 of the chamber and runs down to the drain fitting. A scavenge fitting 166, at the chamber end of the second fluid line 150 is releasably connected with the drain fitting. The scavenge pump 62 sucks the collected solution from the chamber drain fitting, along the return fluid line and through the filter 70, where large particles of dirt and other debris are removed, which could otherwise cause damage to the pumps or block the nozzle. The returning solution is then heated by the in-line heater 64. A second three way valve 168, such as a directional ball valve, in the return fluid line 150 directs the heated cleaning solution to a selected one of the reservoirs 52,54.
As for the inlet line 120, a portion 170 of the return line 150 between the lid 80 and the housing is formed from a length of flexible hose which includes quick connect couplings 172A, 174A at first and second ends for quickly connecting with corresponding couplings 172B, 174B on the front panel of the housing and lid 80 respectively. Optionally, the hose reel 134 on the side panel of the housing is also used for storing the hose 170 between use.
An analysis of the residues found on sterilizer walls, by various techniques, such as X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), has shown that both organic and inorganic substances are present in the residue. To facilitate removal of both types of residue, a two step cleaning process is preferably used. In a first step, an alkaline cleaning solution, which is used to remove organic materials, is sprayed over the chamber walls. In a second step, an acid cleaning solution, which is formulated for removing inorganic materials, is sprayed over the chamber walls 10. The order of the two step process may be reversed, with the acid cleaning step followed by the alkaline cleaning step. However, it is preferable to remove the organic residues first. The two cleaning solutions may be prepared by diluting concentrated cleaning compositions with water or supplied in the dilute form, ready for use.
The first reservoir 52 contains the alkaline cleaning solution 180 and the second reservoir 54 contains the acid cleaning solution 182. The cleaning solutions are withdrawn from the reservoirs through first and second inlet line conduits 184 and 186, which releasably connect the cleaning solution reservoirs 52, 54, respectively, with the first ball valve 136. The inlet line conduits are fluidly connected with siphon tubes 188, 190 inside each of the reservoirs, which extend upward from the lower ends of the reservoirs 52, 54, respectively. Optionally, each siphon tube 188, 190 includes an integral filter 192, 194, respectively, adjacent its lower end, for filtering cleaning solution leaving the reservoir. Optionally, the filter replaces the strainer 68 in the inlet line 120. The first three way valve 136 is switched so as to connect first the alkaline fluid inlet line conduit 184 and, subsequently, the acid fluid inlet line conduit 186 with the high pressure pump 60. Similarly, the cleaning fluid is returned to the reservoirs through first and second return conduits 198 and 200. The second three way valve 168 connects the scavenger pump 62 with the first and second return conduits 198, 200 in turn, to return the alkaline cleaning composition 180 to the alkaline reservoir 52 and subsequently, the acid cleaning composition 182 to the acid reservoir 54. Quick connectors on the conduits 184, 186, 198, 200 connect with corresponding quick connectors on the reservoirs 52, 54 for rapid connection and disconnection of the fluid inlet and outlet lines from the reservoirs.
The reservoirs 52, 54 are of a suitable size for containing sufficient cleaning solution to fill the hoses and conduits during cleaning. For most purposes, a 2-8 gallon tank is a convenient size for each of the reservoirs.
Optionally, as shown in FIG. 7 a third reservoir 204 contains a rinse fluid 206, such as tap wayter, or distilled water, for removing the cleaning composition from the chamber and from the various hoses, pumps, and conduits, at the end of the cleaning process. Conduits 208 and 210 connect the rinse fluid reservoir 170 with the inlet and return lines 120, 170 via three way valves 212 and 214, respectively. When the three way valves 212, 214 are in a position to direct rinse fluid to and from the chamber, the three way valves 136, 168 are preferably switched to a closed position such that no cleaning solution passes from the reservoirs 52, 54 to the chamber 12.
Alternatively, the rinse inlet conduit 208 is connected with a mains supply of tap water for rinsing the chamber after cleaning. The rinse return conduit 210 is optionally connected with a drain or suitably positioned receptacle. In yet another alternative embodiment, the return valves 168 and 214 are switched to return the used rinse water from the chamber to one of the cleaning fluid reservoirs.
Operation of the various pumps and valves is preferably controlled by the control system 74, which is mounted in the upper housing compartment. The pumps are optionally switched on and off manually, by switches 218 on a control panel 220 conveniently mounted on the outside of the control system. FIG. 2 shows the control panel 220 mounted on the rear housing panel 32, although other convenient locations are also contemplated. Optionally, additional switches 224, shown in FIG. 2 on a side panel, manually operate the ball valves 136, 168, 212, 214. More preferably, the control system 74 operates the switching of the ball valves so that the sterilizer is first cleaned with the alkaline cleaner 180 for a first, preselected time then cleaned with the acid cleaner 182 for a second, preselected time, and finally, rinsed with the rinse fluid 206.
With reference once more to FIG. 2, the operating equipment is preferably powered by electricity, which is supplied through an electrical cord 230 connected to the mains supply of the facility. Alternatively, the equipment may be powered by a battery or a generator mounted on the cart.
The acid and alkaline cleaning solutions 180, 182 are preferably mixed together when cleaning is complete to form a neutral, or near neutral solution which is safe to dispose of in a sanitary sewer system, without further treatment. By near neutral, it is meant that the cleaning solutions, when combined, have a pH of 6 to 8, more preferably, a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Accordingly, the volumes, and or the pH of the two cleaning solutions used are preferably selected such that, when mixed, a near neutral solution is formed.
In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 7, a connecting portion or wall 200, which forms a barrier between the first and second reservoirs 52,54, is opened after cleaning to allow the two cleaning solutions to mix. The mixing results in the formation of a neutral, or near neutral composition. Various opening mechanisms are contemplated. In one preferred embodiment, an opening member, such as a cutter 202 cuts the connecting wall between the two reservoirs to allow mixing. The opening member is preferably actuated by an actuator 204, such as a solenoid valve, which is operated by the control system 74. In another embodiment, a valve (not shown) is opened to allow cleaning solution to pass between the two reservoirs.
In another alternative embodiment, the alkaline reservoir 52 is sized to accommodate both the acid and the alkaline cleaning solutions 180, 182. At the end of the acid cleaning portion of the cleaning cycle, the return ball valve 168 is switched so that the acid cleaning solution 182 is directed into the alkaline reservoir 52. The high pressure pump and scavenger pumps 60, 62 continue to pump the acid cleaning solution from the acid reservoir 54 until all the acid cleaning solution has passed through the chamber 12 and into the alkaline reservoir, where it mixes with the alkaline cleaning solution. This method of circulation can also be used to enhance mixing when a barrier 200 between the two reservoirs is opened, as described above.
In operation, fresh reservoirs 52,54 of cleaning solution are loaded into the lower compartment 39 of the cart 20 and the quick connectors on the conduits 186, 184, 198, 200 connected with the corresponding connectors on the reservoirs. The cart is then wheeled through the facility and positioned adjacent to the sterilizer to be cleaned. The electric cord 230 is connected to a suitable mains outlet. A suitably sized lid 80 and nozzle attachment 124 are selected and connected together by quick connect fitting 133B. A door 232 to the sterilizer is opened and the lid 80 clamped to the end ring 84 of the chamber to seal the opening 82, as shown in FIG. 6. Quick connections 174, 172 are made between the return hose 170 and the drain fitting 166 and the housing 22, respectively. Similarly, quick connections 132, 130 are made to connect the inlet hose 128 with the nozzle 124 and the housing, respectively. The pumps 60, 62 are switched on and the heater 64 begins to heat the alkaline cleaning solution to the desired temperature for cleaning. Heating is continued while the alkaline cleaning solution is circulated through the chamber until the desired cleaning temperature is reached. Heating is continued, as needed, to maintain the temperature.
The three way valves 136,168 are set by the controller 74, or set manually, so that the alkaline cleaning solution 180 is pumped along the fluid inlet line 120 to the nozzle 124 by the high pressure pump 60 and the sprayed cleaning solution is returned to the same tank 52 along the fluid return line 150 by the scavenger pump 62.
The scavenger pump 62 operates to maintain a slight negative pressure in the chamber. This assists in keeping the lid 80 in a sealing relation with the end ring 84 and ensures that the sprayed cleaning solution is removed quickly from the bottom of the chamber. The bottom of the chamber is the area of the chamber where the cleaning solution and residue tends to accumulate. It is, therefore, desirable to prevent the cleaning solution from pooling there and inhibiting the mechanical cleaning action of the spray. Residues which are carried from the chamber into the tank 52 are filtered from the recirculating cleaning solution by the return strainer 70 so that they do not clog the nozzle spray head 142 and other parts of the equipment.
After a period of cleaning, typically 1-2 hours for heavily encrusted residue, or less for lightly soiled chambers, the high pressure pump 60 is switched off temporarily while the first (alkaline) cleaning solution 180 remaining in the chamber and fluid lines is returned to the first tank 52. The three way valves 136,168 are then switched so that the second cleaning solution (acid) 182 is circulated through the chamber in the same manner as described above for the alkaline cleaning solution 180. This is continued for a period sufficient to remove remaining, inorganic residue from the chamber, typically 1-2 hours for heavily soiled chambers, or less for lightly soiled chambers. Since the cleaning solutions do not significantly influence the nickel plating on the chamber walls, the cleaning process may be further extended to ensure thorough cleaning.
The chamber walls are cleaned and passivated in the cleaning process. Passivation is the reduction in the tendency of a metal to corrode. Passivity may result from the formation of a thin semiconducting oxide film on the metal surface (termed chemical passivity) or the precipitation of solid salts to form a thicker, but porous layer (termed mechanical passivity). Oxidizing agents, such as phosphoric acid, are capable of passivating iron and steel chambers.
During the cleaning of the chamber interior 12, the chamber door 232, in cases where it is not cleaned by the process, may be cleaned by conventional cleaning methods, such as hand cleaning. Alternatively, a replaceable cover for the interior of the door is conveniently replaced at this time.
At the end of the cleaning process, the connecting portion 200 between the two tanks 52,54 is opened and the cleaning solutions allowed to mix, and/or other mixing methods, as described above, are employed. Optionally, the mixed cleaning solution is circulated through the chamber 12 and fluid lines 120, 150 to neutralize remaining cleaning solutions thereon.
Alternatively, or additionally, a rinse cycle is used to wash the chamber and hoses. Rinse fluid 206 is pumped by the high pressure pump 60 through the inlet fluid line 120 to the nozzle 124 and returned by the scavenger pump 62 to one of the cleaning solution tanks, the rinse tank 204, or to a drain or other receptacle. In this way, the hoses can be handled safely without risk of drops of cleaning solution falling on the technician or outside the chamber. The quick connectors on the two tanks 52, 54 are then disconnected from the corresponding conduits and the tanks emptied into the sanitary sewer system, or transported to a disposal facility.
The air bleed valve 106 is opened to allow air to enter through the air line 104 into the sterilizer chamber to equalize the pressure inside the chamber. The lid 80 is then unclamped from the sterilizer end ring 84. The lid 80, nozzle 124, and hoses 128,170 are uncoupled and stored on the cart 20.
The entire cleaning process is readily completed in 2-4 hours, much faster than for conventional cleaning methods. Additionally, since the solid state control 74 controls many or all of the operations of the cleaning process, the technician is free to perform other servicing functions during the cleaning time.
If desired, the acid and alkaline cleaning steps may be repeated one or more times, for example, if the sterilizer chamber is heavily encrusted with deposits. Fresh cleaning solutions may be used for each repeated cleaning step. Or, the same solutions may be reused.
In yet another embodiment, shown in FIG. 8, a single reservoir 310 replaces the two cleaning solution reservoirs 52, 54 and includes a first chamber 312 which receives a cleaning solution suitable for removing all types of deposits from the sterilizer. Such a system is used, for example, when the deposits from the sterilizer are easier to remove, or are relatively less heavily accreted, or is used at intervals, in between major two-reservoir cleaning processes, to keep deposit buildup to an acceptable level. In this embodiment, a neutralizing chamber 314 is separately formed in the reservoir for receiving a neutralizing agent. The neutralizing agent is a chemical which reacts with the cleaning solution to form a non-hazardous substance which may be disposed in the sanitary sewer system, or otherwise safely disposed. For example, if the cleaning solution is acidic, the neutralizing agent is alkaline, and vice versa.
After cleaning is complete, an actuator 316 causes an opening member 318, such as a cutter, to pierce a connecting wall 320 between the neutralizing chamber and the cleaning solution chamber. The neutralizing agent mixes with the used cleaning solution to form a neutral solution. The actuator 316 may be a solenoid valve, operated by a control system, as described above, or a manual actuator, as shown in FIG. 8. A simple actuator, which is disposable along with the reservoir, includes a compressible tube 324, formed from paper, plastic, or the like which houses an upper end of the cutter. The tube 324 inhibits accidental actuation of the cutter prior to and during cleaning. A lower end of the cutter, which defines a cutting edge or blade 323 or other suitable cutting shape, is positioned in the neutralizing chamber (or, alternatively, in the cleaning solution chamber), adjacent the connecting wall 320. An operator presses an upper end of the tube 324, crushing the tube and depressing the cutter 318 until the cutting edge 323 cuts the connecting wall 320.
A siphon tube 332 includes an integral filter 334 for filtering cleaning solution leaving the reservoir. Optionally, the filter replaces the strainer in the inlet line. The syphon tube is connected with an inlet line quick connector 336 for quickly connecting the syphon tube with the inlet line. A return quick connector 338 couples a return line with the cleaning solution chamber 312. The operating equipment and cart used in this embodiment are essentially as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. However, the ball valves 136 and 168 are preferably eliminated in this embodiment or replaced with simple open and shut type valves.
With reference to FIG. 9, an embodiment of the system suitable for use in sterilizers having a door 400 with a generally centrally positioned opening 402, passing through the door, is shown. This embodiment takes advantage of the readily available central opening to supply cleaning fluid to the chamber. Certain sterilizers, particularly larger models of the radial arm type, have a closure mechanism (not shown) which makes use of the central opening. In such cases, parts of the closure mechanism are readily removable. For example, in the case of an Amsco brand 24�36 radial arm sterilizer, the door diaphragm cover, diaphragm, and clutch rod assembly are first removed from the inside 404 of the door. On the outside 406 of the door, the door handwheel and clutch lock cap are then removed, thereby providing an opening 402 with access to the sterilizer chamber 408 from the outside of the sterilizer. Parts of the door mechanism 409, which do not obstruct the opening, are left in position on the door. This embodiment allows the inside of the door to be cleaned at the same time as the chamber walls, without the need for separate, hand cleaning.
Once the appropriate parts of the closure mechanism have been removed, an adapter 410, is fitted to the inside (or to the outside) of the door. The adapter has an attachment portion 412, which is suitably shaped for interconnection with the door around the opening, for example by means of a screw thread, clamp, or other method of attachment. A horizontally extending bore 414 is defined through the adapter with an internal diameter sufficient to receive an inlet tube 416 therethrough. The inlet tube thus passes through the opening 402 in the door and into the chamber interior. The inlet tube is conveniently formed from a length of ⅜″ stainless steel or rigid plastic pipe, or other rigid material which is resistant to the cleaning fluids used. A seal 418, such as an O-ring, provides a leak-tight seal between the tube and the bore. The seal may be held in place by a nut 420 threaded into one end of the inlet tube. Other methods of sealing the inlet tube to the adaptor are also contemplated, including welding of the inlet tube to the adapter bore 414.
A nozzle 422 is attached to an inner end 424 of the tube 416 for spraying cleaning fluid over the walls of the chamber and the inner surface of the door. The length of the inlet tube is selected so as to position the nozzle so that the cleaning fluid reaches all the walls of the chamber and the inner surface of the door during the cleaning process.
An outer end 426 of the inlet tube is connected with the cleaning fluid supply reservoirs 52, 54, in a similar manner to that shown in FIG. 1. For example, the outer end may include a quick connect coupling 428 which couples with a corresponding quick connect coupling at the end of the flexible hose 128 (shown in FIG. 1). Alternatively, the inlet tube may be connected with a single reservoir of the type illustrated in FIG. 8.
An outlet line 430, for withdrawing the sprayed cleaning fluid from the chamber, may be connected to a lower end of the chamber through a second opening in the sterilizer chamber 408. The outlet line 430 is connected to a separate outlet 432 at a lower end of the sterilizer, by quick connects 434, or other suitable connectors, as shown in FIG. 9.
FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the system, in which the in-line heater 64 is omitted. In this embodiment, the cleaning solution is heated in the sterilizer by employing the sterilizer's own heating system 450. For example, the sterilizer of FIG. 1 is surrounded by a steam jacket 450. The steam jacket is supplied with steam through a valve 452 while the cleaning solution is circulated through the chamber 12. When a sensor 466 displays that the cleaning solution is at the selected temperature for effective cleaning, the steam supply to the steam jacket 450 is switched off by closing the valve. If the sensor subsequently registers that the temperature of the cleaning solution is below an acceptable level, the steam supply may be recommenced.
In this embodiment, it is preferable for the temperature sensor 466 to be positioned in the return line 170, where it measures the temperature of the cleaning solution just after it leaves the chamber 12. The control system 60, in this embodiment, does not control the addition of steam to the sterilizer, although it is also contemplated that the sterilizer may be modified so that the control system controls the opening of the steam valve 452 automatically, in response to detected solution temperatures received from the sensor 466.
The acidic cleaning solution 182 includes an acid component and preferably also includes a surfactant, a chelating polymer, and the balance water.
The acid component is preferably a strong acid, having a low pH (preferably about pH 0-3, more preferably, 0-2 for a 0.1M aqueous solution of the acid). Suitable acid components include phosphoric acid, hydroxyacetic acid (glycolic acid), and sulfamic acid. Phosphoric acid, which has a passivating effect on stainless steel, is particularly preferred. The acid component is preferably present at the concentration of about 14-55%, more preferably, present at a concentration of about 40-50% weight, most preferably at about 45-48% by weight of the acidic cleaning solution. The acid component can be a combination of two or more acids.
For example, a cleaner containing about 42% phosphoric acid (readily formed by using 60% of a 70% W/W phosphoric acid solution) and about 5% by weight citric acid is particularly effective.
The surfactant is selected from the group consisting of anionic, cationic, nonionic, and zwitterionic surfactants to enhance cleaning performance. Examples of such surfactants include water soluble salts of higher fatty acid monoglyceride monosulfates, such as the sodium salt of the monosulfated monoglyceride of hydrogenated coconut oil fatty acids, higher alkyl sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, alkyl aryl sulfonates, such as sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, higher alkyl sulfoacetates, higher fatty acid esters of 1,2 dihydroxypropane sulfonates, and the substantially saturated higher aliphatic acyl amides of lower aliphatic amino carboxylic acid compounds, such as those having 12-16 carbons in the fatty acid, alkyl, or acyl radicals, and the like. Examples of the last mentioned amides are N-lauroyl, N-miristoyl, or N-palmitoyl sarcosines.
Additional examples are condensation products of ethylene oxide with various reactive hydrogen compounds reactive therewith having long hydrophobic chains (e.g. aliphatic chains of about 12-20 carbon atoms), which condensation products ("ethoxamers") contain hydrophilic polyethylene moieties, such as condensation products of poly(ethylene oxide) with fatty acids, fatty alcohols, fatty amides, polyhydric alcohols (e.g. sorbitan monostearate), and polypropyleneoxide (e.g. pluronic materials).
Particularly preferred surfactants are low foaming amphoteric surfactants or anionic surfactants (generally not low foaming), either alone, or in combination with non-ionic surfactants. Miranol JEM, an amphocarboxylate, short chain, low foaming surfactant obtainable from Rhone-Poulenc as a 45% by weight solution is a typical suitable surfactant. The surfactant is present in the cleaning solution at a concentration of about 0.1-5.0% by weight, more preferably, around 0.2-3.0%, most preferably, at about 0.3% by weight.
The polymer is preferably one which is stable in the acid conditions. Suitable polymers include acrylamides, polyacrylates, and other chelating polymers, alone or in combination. One suitable polymer is TRC 233i, an acrylamide-type polymer obtainable from Calgon Corporation. The polymer is preferably at a concentration of 0.2-10% by weight, more preferably, around 0.2-2.0%, most preferably, at around 1% by weight of the acid cleaning solution.
Water suitable for the present invention can be distilled water, soft water, or hard water. Soft water is preferred.
A preferred acid cleaning solution includes, in terms of weight percent.
Weight %
Preferred weight %
Phosphoric acid
Citric Acid
The alkaline cleaning solution 180 includes an alkaline component and preferably also a surfactant, a chelating agent, and the balance water.
The alkaline component is preferably a strong base, having a high pH (preferably, pH 13-14 for a 0.1M solution of the base), such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, or a combination thereof. Other suitable alkaline components include quaternary ammonium hydroxides, such as alkyl quaternary ammonium hydroxides, including tetramethyl ammonium hydroxide, tetraethyl ammonium hydroxide, and the like. The alkaline component is preferably present at a concentration of 10-30%, more preferably, at around 20-25% by weight. A particularly preferred alkaline cleaning composition includes 21.0% potassium hydroxide (readily prepared by using 47% by weight of 45% W/W potassium hydroxide solution).
The surfactant is preferably as described for the acid cleaning solution. A preferred alkaline cleaning solution includes Miranol JEM. The surfactant is preferably at a concentration of 0.4-5%, and more preferably, about 0.9% by weight of the alkaline cleaning solution. For example, a 0.9% concentration can be achieved using 2% Miranol JEM (since this is a 45% solution).
The chelator is present at a concentration of from about 3-20% of the alkaline cleaning composition 180. It preferably includes a polyacrylic acid, at a concentration of 0.1 to 3% by weight, more preferably, at around 0.3% by weight of the alkaline cleaning composition. The chelator may also include sodium gluconate at a concentration of 1-7%, more preferably, at around 4-5%, most preferably, at around 5% by weight of the alkaline cleaning solution. The chelator may also include EDTA or a salt thereof at a concentration of 2-6%, more preferably at around 2-4%, most preferably, at about 4% of the alkaline cleaning composition.
Optionally, the alkaline cleaning composition 180 may include more than one alkaline component, more than one surfactant, and more than one chelating agent.
A preferred alkaline cleaning solution 180 includes, in terms of weight percent.
Weight %
Preferred weight %
Potassium hydroxide
Sodium Gluconate
Sodium EDTA
about 0.9
Polyacrylic acid
0.1 to 3
about 0.3
Soft Water
The two step cleaning system (one acid, one alkaline) thus described cleans and passivates the sterilizer chamber. Alternatively, one or other of the alkaline and acid cleaning solutions may be used in the single reservoir 310 of FIG. 8.
The invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiment. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detailed description. It is intended that the invention be construed as including all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents hereof.
|Cited Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|Jul 6, 1945
|Aug 31, 1948
|Westinghouse Electric Corp
|Electrical cleaning means
|Jul 14, 1960
|Feb 12, 1963
|Dow Chemical Co
|Compositions for inhibiting corrosion
|Jan 22, 1964
|Jul 20, 1965
|Associated Testing Lab Inc
|Vehicle washing unit
|Jul 22, 1963
|Mar 7, 1967
|Dow Chemical Co
|Scale removal, ferrous metal passivation and compositions therefor
|Oct 24, 1965
|Nov 26, 1968
|Dow Chemical Co
|Passivation of ferrous metal surface
|Oct 18, 1965
|Apr 15, 1969
|Dow Chemical Co
|Removal of copper containing incrustations from ferrous surfaces
|Jun 20, 1967
|Apr 14, 1970
|Dow Chemical Co
|Metal cleaning solution of chelating agent and water-soluble sulfide
|Jun 22, 1967
|Dec 22, 1970
|Nalco Chemical Co
|Scale inhibition and removal in steam generation
|Oct 6, 1969
|Jul 20, 1971
|Burger Eisenwerke Ag
|Cleaning unit for frying, broiling or defrosting chamber
|Apr 25, 1969
|Jul 20, 1971
|Kierner Hans
|Method and machine for cleaning small parts
|Feb 26, 1973
|Feb 11, 1975
|Cesco Inc
|Removal of polymer residue from surfaces of processing equipment
|Mar 6, 1978
|Jul 15, 1980
|Novo Laboratories, Inc.
|Method and composition for cleaning dairy equipment
|Mar 27, 1981
|Sep 6, 1983
|Delta Manufacturing And Sales, Inc.
|Portable lavage device
|Sep 7, 1982
|Jun 12, 1984
|The Dow Chemical Company
|Boiler scale prevention employing an organic chelant
|Jul 23, 1985
|Mar 31, 1987
|Shiro Adachi
|Washing apparatus for containers used to hold urine
|May 18, 1990
|Aug 13, 1991
|Veriflo Corporation
|Method and apparatus for cleaning surfaces to absolute or near-absolute cleanliness
|Sep 6, 1996
|Mar 17, 1998
|Eet, Inc.
|Extraction fluids for removal of contaminants from surfaces
|Apr 21, 1997
|Jun 16, 1998
|Calgon Vestal, Inc.
|Stainless steel acid treatment
|Aug 4, 1997
|Jan 12, 1999
|Calgon Vestal, Inc.
|Stainless steel alkali treatment
|May 22, 1997
|Oct 5, 1999
|Active Environmental Technologies, Inc.
|Method for removal of contaminants from surfaces
|May 8, 1991
|Nov 12, 1992
|Siemens Ag
|Loosening and removal of iron oxide from metal surface esp. vessel or pipe - comprises using alkali poly:amino-carboxylate, reducing agent and buffer to bind alkali ions
|Apr 16, 1993
|Oct 20, 1994
|Henkel Kgaa
|Verfahren zur Erh�hung der Korrosionsbest�ndigkeit von nichtrostendem Stahl
|Feb 12, 1982
|Aug 24, 1983
|Dowell Schlumberger Corporation
|Aqueous acid metal cleaning composition and method of use
|Title not available
|Jellinke: Reinigen von Chromnickelstahl: Galvanotechnik., vol. 76, No. 9 Sep. 1, 1985, Saulgau/Wurtt DE, pp. 1251 XP002060316.
|NACE Publication on "Corrosion Basics An Introduction," pp. 41-42, 1984.
|Citing Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|Apr 21, 2006
|Aug 12, 2008
|Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
|Method for cleaning electroless process tank
|Jul 5, 2006
|Jun 25, 2013
|Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
|Process for producing catalyst
|Mar 15, 2013
|Oct 22, 2013
|Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
|Method for producing catalyst
|Nov 16, 2010
|Jan 5, 2016
|Zoeller Pump Company, Llc
|Sealed and self-contained tankless water heater flushing system
|Mar 28, 2003
|Feb 5, 2004
|Lorincz Thomas A.
|Apparatus and method for washing the inside of wine barrels
|Apr 22, 2004
|Nov 11, 2004
|Francisco Canoiranzo
|Product and method to clean titanium surfaces
|Apr 21, 2006
|Oct 25, 2007
|Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
|Method for cleaning electroless process tank
|Jul 5, 2006
|Jul 2, 2009
|Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
|Process for producing catalyst
|May 17, 2012
|Zoeller Company
|Sealed and self-contained tankless water heater flushing system
|Aug 27, 2013
|Nov 12, 2014
|Method for cleaning penicillin bottle rubber plug
|U.S. Classification
|134/29, 134/2, 134/34, 134/41, 134/10, 134/22.19, 134/22.17, 134/22.1, 134/40, 134/3, 134/28, 134/26, 134/27
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Mar 9, 2000
Owner name: STERIS INC., CALIFORNIA
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:DUCKETT, MICHAEL C.;BLILEY, JOHN C.;KIELAR, GERALD J.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:010659/0352;SIGNING DATES FROM 20000207 TO 20000306
|Dec 13, 2007
Owner name: AMERICAN STERILIZER COMPANY, OHIO
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:STERIS INC.;REEL/FRAME:020234/0745
Effective date: 20071127
Owner name: AMERICAN STERILIZER COMPANY,OHIO
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:STERIS INC.;REEL/FRAME:020234/0745
Effective date: 20071127
|Feb 4, 2008
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|Feb 11, 2008
|Maintenance fee reminder mailed
|Feb 3, 2012
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8
|Feb 3, 2016
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 12


text:
FANNETT (March 18, 2014) The Hamshire-Fannett Independent School District in rural Southeast Texas canceled classes districtwide Tuesday after an early-morning fire that gutted Hamshire-Fannett Elementary School.
The fire was reported at around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jefferson County sheriff's Deputy Rod Carroll said.
Flames and smoke were pouring from the building when the first crews arrived.
Details about the extent of the damage the fire caused weren't immediately available Tuesday morning.
The cause is under investigation.


text:
Mary and Phil Kayser of Amarillo celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at North Beacon Church of the Nazarene.
Kayser married the former Mary Trimble on March 1, 1958, in Farmington, N.M. They have lived in Amarillo for 12 years and previously resided in Mountainair, N.M., and Socorro, N.M.
Kayser is a truck driver. Mrs. Kayser is a homemaker. They belong to North Beacon Church of the Nazarene.
Children of the couple are Rowena Sherman, Barbara Brumley, Merle Kayser, Sharon Aikens and Bert Kayser.
The couple have nine grandchildren: Christy, Erik, Joshua, Bryan, Steven, Michael, Kelsey, Teyana and Tanya. They have five great-grandchildren.
Amarillo Globe-News, March 2, 2008
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text:
2012 GF Cobia. Originally posted in the Trek forum for some guys who wanted to see it, but this is for the archive! And to answer the original posters question, the only thing I dont like is the stock seat. (& yes the reflectors are gone)
Results 926 to 950 of 1139


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Newegg.com - A great place to buy computers, computer parts, electronics, software, accessories, and DVDs online. With great prices, fast shipping, and top-rated customer service - once you know, you Newegg.
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Product Description:
This multimedia touch-screen head-unit is packed with features for the ultimate in-car entertainment system. The motorized, slide-down front panel reveals a 7" widescreen TFT monitor with a 1440 x 324 resolution for maximum quality. This unit has an AM/FM tuner and plays CDs, DVDs, VCDs, and MPEG4s from SD cards and USB sticks. Includes 30 radio station presets, anti-shock mechanism ESP function, RCA input for external device (iPod or MP3 player), treble/bass/balance/fader control. It also includes Bluetooth technology, so you can screen your calls and talks hands-free. A remote control gives you total wireless control of your headunit. With 320 watts total output (4 x 80 W), you'll find your music and movies looking and sounding better than ever before on this double-DIN unit.
Bluetooth Compatible A2DP & AVRCP Support
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Receiver; GPS active antenna; SD card wireless remote; Travel case; iPod/MP3 connection cable; Power/speaker wiring interface harness; RCA Interface inputs/outputs cable
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text:
Children's Health
Bed-Wetting - References
Other Works Consulted
Huang T, et al. (2011). Complementary and miscellaneous interventions for nocturnal enuresis in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (12).
Foreman JW (2011). Kidney or urinary tract disorders. In CD Rudolph et al., eds., Rudolph's Pediatrics, 22nd ed., pp. 1691-1696. New York: McGraw-Hill.
Glazener CMA, et al. (2004). Complex behavioural and educational interventions for nocturnal enuresis in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (1).
Graham KM, Levy JB (2009). Enuresis. Pediatrics in Review, 30(5): 165-173.
Medical Specialty Society, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (2004). Practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with enuresis. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 43(12): 1540-1550.
Mikkelsen EJ (2007). Elimination disorders: Enuresis and encopresis. In A Martin, FR Volkmar, eds., Lewis's Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 4th ed., pp. 655-669. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
Sadock BJ, Sadock VA (2007). Elimination disorders. In Kaplan and Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry: Behavioral Sciences/Clinical Psychiatry, 10th ed., pp. 1244-1249. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
Tanagho EA (2008). Disorders of the bladder, prostate, and seminal vesicles. In EA Tanagho, JW McAninch, eds., Smith's General Urology, 17th ed., pp. 574-588. New York: McGraw-Hill.
In this article
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise


text:
Special Order
The year is 1857, soon after the tragic Siege of Cawnpore. In the British garrison, a guard is killed and an Indian prisoner escapes, which leads to yet more British deaths. Cries for revenge are overwhelming. Despite no witnesses and no evidence against him, a luckless British medical orderly named John Tallis is arrested as an accomplice simply because he was the only soldier unaccounted for when these baffling crimes were committed. Though chosen to defend Tallis, young Lieutenant Victor Narraway is not encouraged to try very hard. Narraway's superiors merely want a show trial. But inspired by a soldier's widow and her children, and by his own stubborn faith in justice, Narraway searches for the truth. In an alien world haunted by memories of massacre, he is the accused man's only hope. The trial of John Tallis equals the white-knuckle best of Anne Perry's breathtaking courtroom dramas, as Narraway struggles to persevere against appalling odds and a frightful injustice.
About the Author
Anne Perry is the bestselling author of two acclaimed series set in Victorian England: the Charlotte and Thomas Pitt novels, including Buckingham Palace Gardens and Long Spoon Lane, and the William Monk novels, including Execution Dock and Dark Assassin. She is also the author of a series of five World War I novels, as well as seven holiday novels, most recently A Christmas Odyssey, and a historical novel, The Sheen on the Silk, set in the Ottoman Empire. Anne Perry lives in Scotland.
Simon Prebble has worked extensively on British and American television as both actor and narrator.


text:
An animal study in Diabetes revealed 36% of rats with diabetes died of cardiac arrhythmia following a severe hypoglycemic event, compared with 21% of rats without the disease. However, in a separate experiment, researchers found the rats' death risk could be reduced from 86% to 33% by infusing glucose into the third ventricle of the brain during severe hypoglycemia.
Full Story:MedPage Today (free registration)


text:
Cosy up with this My Big Tea Teapot from Eva Solo with an all-in-one function complete with a tea cosy, ideal to share. The stunning snug fit knitted cover helps to keep the tea hot for longer for those well needed precious moments. - GG.
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Alessi Noe Modular Bottle Holder - White
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Graypants Moon Pendant Lampshade 10 Inch
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10 Stories You Might Have Missed: McAvoy says new 'X-Men' is 'biggest, most epic yet'
Also: New 'Conan' film moves forward, Kevin James returning to TV
Next gallery »2014 Best Actress Oscar Contenders
« Previous galleryThese Sandra Bullock performances deserve more love
'Wilfred' heads to FXX for a fourth and final season
Good news, "Wilfred" fans: The dark doggie sitcom has been renewed for a fourth season.
Bad news, "Wilfred" fans: The Elijah Wood vehicle's fourth season will be its last.
FX announced this week that it has ordered a 10-episode fourth season for "Wilfred" and will transplant the comedy to FXX.
"Wilfred" was created by Jason Gann, who also co-stars along with Wood, Fiona Gubelmann, Dorian Brown.
The final 10 "Wilfred" episodes will air in 2014.
Photo Credit: FX


text:
I don't see a changelog for 1.5.1.
What's been updated, out of curiosity?
I don't see a changelog for 1.5.1.
What's been updated, out of curiosity?
However, in 1.5.1 the chart no longer loads for me in the dashboard.
after upgrade to 1.5.1 chart stopped loading for me also in dashboard. If you click view all at bottom the chart does show in the new page that opens.
My dashboard stats are also not showing.
Same here, I receive a blank dashboard status graph with version 1.5.1, but the "Blog Status" page's graphs seem to work fine.
I just did an automatic update for my wordpress stats, and instead of updating my stat software, it just deleted the stat software entirely. So now I have no stats, and I also don't know which stat counter I originally had. I assume it's the one listed in this thread, because of the timing of the thread's appearance and the update, but i'm not sure.
What's the best stat counter for wordpress? And is that the same as the default one that comes with wordpress when i first installed it?
Nevermind. Full reinstallation solved it.
I just did the auto upgrade on Stats and boom, it's all gone. I'm left with this:
Fatal error: Call to undefined function plugin_dir_url() in /home5/burgerbu/public_html/wp-content/plugins/stats/stats.php on line 215
I deactivated/reactivated/put in my API, which I had to do as a transfer or something. But nothing. No Stats.
Can anyone offer guidance on my fatal error while I'm still breathing?
I just did a full reactivation...and nothing. I get the same
'fatal error' message, which I never got until I "upgraded". Some upgrade.
I only miss the stats on the dashboard
I'm also getting no stats
same here, no stats on the dashboard.
@kirkultra, if uninstall and reinstall it, will it also delete all of your past stats?
yup.. its bork: no stats on the dashboard page.. stats page works just fine..
Got a fix yet?
Same here, after upgrade to 1.5.1 chart stopped loading in dashboard.
Having the same issue with stats not showing on the dashboard.
Thought I'd do a full re-installation....
Deactivated, deleted and re-installed from WP repository. Re-entered the WordPress.com API key and and re-registered the blog. Cleared the browser cache. Logged out and in.
Same issue - still no stats on the dashboard!
I'm relieved that others are having the same issue.
I gave up on the "upgrade." Deactivated/deleted the upgraded Stats; found an old file of an earlier version of Stats and loaded that. God love it, it works fine. I'm not upgrading it.
All previous version are here
Quick fix until they get these bugs resolved.
I reverted back to 1.5.0, available here.
Fixed in 1.5.2. Sorry about this.
It is not fixed in 1.5.2.
gemlic, I have no clue what problem you are talking about. Please start a new topic detailing your issue.
This topic has been closed to new replies.


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Help finding a suitable plugin:
I have been searching for a status feed plugin that performs similar functionality as a twitter feed.
I want a user to write a "status update" that is output to a list that displays the most recent status first, and then each subsequent previous update up to 5 or 10.
If anyone has seen a plugin like this - I would love to hear about it. I feel like i am going in circles looking.
Thanks in advance!


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Photos: Farms
Tedder with Red Barn
This is the same as the other view but I left the barn in red View Photo »
Black and white barn with red bow
I used Photoshop to leave the bow its nice red color and the rest in B&W View Photo »
Tedder in Yard
This tedder, as I'm told it's called, looked great against the barn. I think it looks good in... View Photo »
Barn in snow
I was traveling home from work and saw this picture. I thought it captured winter in Indiana... View Photo »
Country home
Our 100 year old farmhouse in Western New York in mid October View Photo »
Early Morning Pasture
The horses and cows are still asleep as the morning mist caresses their pasture. View Photo »
Wooly Bear
Corn in The Breeze
Mighty Corn
White Barn
Autum Farm Pond
Cattle watering pond with farm in background, Jacksonville Stage Road, Guilford, Vermont. View Photo »
Jenny Farm
Fall foliage scene. View Photo »
Pumpkin Harvest
Pumpkins set atop a stone wall overlooking the pumpkin patch. View Photo »
Greenbacker's Farm
This photo was taken in the morning before the sun burned off the fog. View Photo »
Morning Glow
Morning shot of a farm. View Photo »
The Barn
Interesting equiptment, wonderful colors and an intriquing shot for me. View Photo »
Autum Portrait of an Old New England Pasture
The trees along the stonewall border of an old New England Pasture in Rural Maine display some of... View Photo »
Early Morning Harvest
This photo was taken October 2, 2004, at JA&R Farms in St. Francis, Maine. Early morning, the fog... View Photo »
A Family Affair
JA&R Farms in St. Francis, Maine, is one of the few farms that continues to use hand crews... View Photo »
JA&R Farms
Hermel Martin digs up the potatoes for his hand crews to begin picking. View Photo »
Apple picking
Took this on September 30, 2004, at the Gould Hill Farms in Contoocook, New Hampshire. View Photo »
Wreath on Barn
A fall wreath on an old barn. View Photo »
Curious Emu
Emu looks at the camera with farm in background. View Photo »
Trees line the edge of some farmland in Rhode Island. View Photo »


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I'm trying to update Craft Pro 2.0.2543 to the latest build but the site's database is in excess of 2Gb. When hitting 'Finish up' in the CP after a manual update, by the time the database has backed up I'm logged out, or the process has timed out. Is there a way I can 'Finish up' without the backup running first?
It is indeed possible. Craft has a handy general configuration option for this exact situation.
Just add that to


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As I use WP-Types more and more, I find a true elegance in the user interface. I've been able to do some pretty sophisticated type and field management intuitively without having to search for guidance.
Have you considered writing a case study about the development of the plugin? I believe it is the best in its class, and I've tried quite a few, and I think there are many folks who would be very interested.
Also, at least for me, it has been easier to understand than Drupal's CCK/Blocks/Views.


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NFL Notes: Buccaneers, Cardinals, Panthers, Seahawks, Titans
Buccaneers Buccaneers signed FB Lonnie Pryor to their practice-squad. (Roy Cummings) Cardinals HC Bruce Arians confirmed that QB Carson Palmer (shoulder) is practicing in full this week, but his arm still isn't 100 percent. (Darren Urban) Panthers Rookie WR Kelvin Benjamin in the concussion protocol. (Joe Person) HC Ron Rivera told reporters that they considered signing Julius...
Via NFL Trade Rumors
October 15, 2014 | Discuss
NFL Tryouts: Week 7
Bengals Bengals worked out QB Terrelle Pryor. (Rand Getlin) Buccaneers Buccaneers tried out CB Brandon Burton, CB Richard Crawford, CB Isaiah Frey and CB Trevin Wade. (Aaron Wilson) FB Lonnie Pryor and DE George Uko visited with the Buccaneers. (Aaron Wilson) Colts Colts tried out WR/KR Trindon Holliday. (Aaron Wilson) Dolphins Dolphins worked out TE Jamie Childers and...
Via NFL Trade Rumors
October 15, 2014 | Discuss
Photo: Clemson Alum C.J. Spiller Loses A Bet, Has To Wear A Florida State T-Shirt
NFL players making bets with teammates when their alma maters match up on the football field is pretty common. Two Buffalo Bills players — running back C.J. Spiller and fullback Lonnie Pryor — made a wager on Saturday's Florida State/Clemson game. Spiller was an All-American running back for Tigers, while Pryor was the MVP of the 2013 Orange Bowl for the 'Noles. We don�...
Via College Spun
September 22, 2014 | Discuss
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LAS VEGAS — The Kansas State women's basketball team entered Monday's game with the No.
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Favstar gets even better if you sign in.
Gift @WhyGrow_Up Favstar Pro to unlock their best tweet!Gift them Pro!
I hate people who insist on talking on phone. Just text, email, snail mail or whatever. I don't wanna talk man.
Sent an (angry) email to Tim Cook last night after an unpleasant experience with Apple support. Just got a call from his office! Woah!
Don't call me. Text me. Send me an email. Page me. Fax. Snail mail. Pigeon post. JUST DON'T CALL ME. I hate talking on phone. Simply.
Big day. @chelseafc, take over OT. #Carefree
This piece of shit Salman from @Uber_India refused to pick me up because I'm not a Muslim & should not be drinking. pic.twitter.com/2TVzyvBfd3
Twitter brings the "Paulo Coelho" out of everybody.
Also, RIM, which was once worth $80 billion is now... Hold on your breath... Just $7 billion. They still don't see the writing on the wall.
If your girlfriend is not into football, no point telling you are going to Amsterdam for a football game. If you know what I mean.
I SAID I WANT Romelu Lukaku BACK NAO!!!
See what cheap South Asian labour can do! "@LBirawan: "@Earth_Pics: Dubai marina from above. pic.twitter.com/ZDbIQJxCwI""
I laugh,I love,I hope,I try,I hurt,I need,I fear,I cry. And I know you do the same things too, So we're really not that different, me & you.
I want to take a break. A vacation. No place hopping, no urban excursions, no sight seeings. A real break. From everything. From the world.
"Hey mom, that's my friend xxxx." "Oh she's beautiful! I like her!" "No mom, she's just a friend." "Oh I know!" "No mom, really. Mom. MOM...
Nothing beats Sufi Music. Nothing.
Peter Siddle is surely gonna be knighted for this dazzling performance. 12 runs!
Best.Batman.Costume.Ever http://bit.ly/bD31d8
I know you've all said how great your Santa is. But.... THIS... BEST.SANTA.EVER @MumbaiSanta #MumbaiSecretSanta pic.twitter.com/I4JqH9sTFK
"@KimDotcom: Something is #WRONG here! pic.twitter.com/B9rXHIcu"
Anderson Cooper wins Twitter, the Internet and life with this: http://twitter.yfrog.com/nudvrnyj http://po.st/yYLj0F via @Po_st
Entrepreneur. History buff. Book worm. Traveler. No, wanderer. No, Nomad. Wannabe Travel Show host. Music junkie. Chelsea fan.
Like @WhyGrow_Up's tweets? Send them a Favstar Pro Membership to show you care.Gift them Pro!
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Autism Spectrum Disorders Health Center
Autism Treatments Directory
Back to Autism Treatments Home
Medical Reference
Sort by: Date A-Z
- Understanding Autism Treatment
- Benefits of Speech Therapy for Autism
- Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Autism
- Autism Therapies: ABA, RDI, and Sensory Therapies
- Gluten Free/Casein Free Diets for Autism
- Autism-Treatment Overview
- Autism-Home Treatment
- Autism-Topic Overview
- Learn the Basics of Autism
- A History of Autism
- Can Autism Be Prevented?
- The Latest on Autism
- Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for Autism
- Autism Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More
- Understanding Autism -- Symptoms
- Asperger's Syndrome-Treatment Overview
- Asperger's Syndrome-Home Treatment
Today on WebMD
Symptoms within the first 2 years of a child's life.
Where do they fall on the spectrum?
Play therapy may undo the disorder in at-risk babies.
What causes this rare condition?


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Unwind in our Executive Rooms which offer a partial sea view to enjoy from your balcony. These 35 sqm rooms are decorated in warm touches with a choice of king or twin beds.
The business traveler can find all necessary facilities within these rooms such as WiFi and a desk. Access to the Executive Lounge includes various benefits, breakfast, afternoon refreshments, evening drinks and canapés. Additional benefits include return transfers from Dubai airports, pressing service on the arrival day (2 pieces), newspapers, dedicated check-in/check-out and business services.
The Executive Lounge also offers indoor and outdoor seating with a spectacular view of the Palm Jumeirah, A beach kit is available at the public beach counter including a towel, an umbrella and a beach mat.
These rooms also offer air-conditioning, a sitting area, LCD TV, tea and coffee making facilities and minibar. The bathroom features a bathtub and a shower.
Executive Partial Sea View Rooms can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children below 12 or a maximum of 3 adults. Rollaway or sofa beds are available upon request for a fee and subject to availability. Smoking and non-smoking options are subject to availability.
- Air conditioning (controlled in the room)
- Interconnecting rooms
- In-room safe
- Complimentary high speed internet in room
- Wireless internet connection
- Choice of smoking or non-smoking room
- Separate tub and shower
- Large desk
- Choice of King bed or Twin beds
- Hypoallergenic pillows
- Sitting area
- Sofa bed
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Ironing board
- LCD television
- Cable television
- National and International TV channels
- Video on demand
- Coffee/tea maker
- Minibar
- Trouser/pant press
- Balcony/lanai/terrace


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10 things you probably didn't know happened at Summerfest
1. Nearly 2,000 seasonal hourly employees logged approximately 140,000 hours of work. And they lived to tell the tale.
2. Nearly 2.8 million items were rung up on the point of sale cash registers. We're thinking beer was the leader, even if they didn't fill it to the top.
3. Nearly 22,000 floating golf balls were hit in an attempt to get a hole-in-one. And no one put one in the cup. That sounds like a carnival scam.
4. 4,240 people performed in some capacity, not including the beer vendors, representing 848 performance groups.
And at the Amphitheater, workers served 549 breakfasts, 1,267 lunches and 1,167 dinners. No word on whether brown M&Ms were served. If you're a Van Halen fan, you would understand.
5. More than 25,000 band T-shirts were sold, perhaps never to be seen again in public.
6. 167,796 mini donuts were sold, which should be enough for a community stomach ache.
7. 4.1 million feet worth of roll towels were consumed in the festival's rest rooms.
We'll leave that one alone. On the up side, 971.9 gallons of hand soap were consumed.
8. Summerfest ran more than 151 print ads, 300 online ads, 2,217 paid radio ads, and 1,535 paid and trade TV ads. Has anyone in Milwaukee not heard of Summerfest?
9. From March through July, Summerfest got a mention from the following publications, among others:
- USA Today
- Billboard
- Rolling Stone
- New York Times
- Wall Street Journal
- Pollstar
- Chicago Tribune
- The Daily Beast
- tons of blogs
- the New York Daily News
- the New York Post
- the BBC
- and People magazine.
Oh, and Digital Rodeo.
10. 92,566 one-way rides were taken on the Sky Glider.
Watch the Lollapalooza 2016 livestream here
East side Red Dot closes, but there's interest in opening a new bar there
Festivals: German Fest will turn lakefront into a haven for culture and food
Halsey's show at the Rave a disorganized display of influences
Local stores plan Saturday events to launch new Harry Potter book
Aaron Rodgers on brother's 'Bachelorette' run: 'I haven't seen the show'


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Brad Paisley Guitar Heroes Book Out Nov. 1
Diary of a Player is Brad's love letter to the guitar and his axe-man role models.
Brad Paisley now has a publication date for his first major book, a tribute to his favorite guitar players called Diary of a Player. The book is set to be released Nov. 1, shortly before he and Carrie Underwood again co-host the Country Music Association awards show.
Brad says, in a press release, that playing guitar is his way of coping with the stresses and challenges of life. "There are some people who drink, who seek counseling, eat, or watch TV, cry, sleep and so on," he says. "I play."
Don't miss an issue! Subscribe to Nash Country Weekly.


text:
All Seasons Garden Club met Nov. 4 at the home of Sandy Kovener with Shirley Lewis as co-hostess.
A variety of soups, breads and desserts were served before the business meeting.
Julie Ballard opened the meeting, and 14 members answered roll call.
This story appears in the print edition of The Tribune. Subscribers can read the entire story online by signing in here or in our e-Edition by clicking here.
All content copyright ©2016 The Tribune, a publication of AIM Media Indiana unless otherwise noted.
All rights reserved. Click here to read our privacy policy.


text:
BEIJING U.S. firms working in China are more concerned about regulatory and policy issues than about pushing China to revalue its currency, the head of the American Chamber of Commerce said in Beijing on Monday.
American businesses are encountering new obstacles to market access as China's growing economy leads them to expand deeper into inland provinces, AmCham president Christian Murck told reporters.
Washington has been pressing China to allow its currency to appreciate and trade more flexibly, with politicians and labour groups blaming the undervalued yuan for the large U.S. trade deficit with China and the loss of U.S. manufacturing jobs.
"A singleminded focus on the yuan is a mistake," Murck said, citing access for financial services, progress toward a market economy and domestic industrial policies as important concerns for U.S. business operating in China.
Policy makers in Beijing worry that allowing too much of an appreciation in the yuan will make Chinese exports uncompetitive, hurting a sector that drives growth and jobs in China.
Half of member companies surveyed by AmCham said a Chinese economic slowdown ranked as one of the top three risks in upcoming years, while 30 percent cited rising labour costs in China, AmCham said in its annual white paper.
Some 15 percent viewed yuan appreciation as a risk.
Foreign investors have previously experienced steadily widening opportunity and market access in China, especially as China joined the World Trade Organisation and opened new sectors to investment and competition.
That trend is now bumping up against inconsistent applications of regulations, concerns over registering and protecting intellectual property and indigenous innovation rules.
"Now, when we look from the vantage point of 2009 and 2010, and look toward the future, we feel less certainty that trend will continue," Murck said.
China's measures to stave off the global economic crisis by channelling stimulus funding through state banks to state-backed sectors has contributed to foreign firms' perceptions of increased obstacles.
"That represents a slowing in the processs of moving forward to a market economy," he said.
American corporations have been increasingly reliant on returns from their businesses in China, as other markets continue to feel the effects of the global financial crisis.
Many firms are selling into second- and third-tier cities, or moving operations from the prosperous coast to inland regions where labour is cheaper but logistics are less developed.
That accounts for part of the increased concerns over regulatory issues, as firms contend with different applications of rules and local favouritism, Murck said.
Trending On Reuters
GST Bill
India makes crucial tweaks to push through stalled tax reform
The government on Wednesday made crucial amendments to its goods and services tax bill in a move to enlist the support of opposition parties as well as state governments. Full Article
Reuters Showcase
Reuters India App
Download the Reuters app from the Apple App Store, Google Play and Amazon. Select the India edition from settings. Full Coverage


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Main Menu
Iced Cold Seafood Appetizers
Oysters on the Half Shell
- Half Dozen $12.99
- Full Dozen $23.99
Hawaiian Ahi Poke Tower$12.99
wasabi, sweet soy sauce and jalapeno
Ahi Tuna Sashimi$12.99
ponzu, wasabi, white BBQ
Seafood Ceviche$10.99
shrimp, fresh fish, avocado, cilantro, red onions, grilled jalapenos, tortilla chips
Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail$10.99
cocktail sauce, horseradish
Crab Cocktail
jalapenos, lemon-garlic marinade, dijonaise sauce
Marinated Cracked Crab App
- 10oz. $13.99
- 20oz. $26.99
Pismo's Platter$26.99
10oz. marinated crab, 4 fresh Oysters, 3 jumbo shrimp, Ahi Tuna Poke
Pismo's Clam Chowder
Your Choice: White, Spicy Red or, House Original, ½ and ½ Chowder. $2 goat cheese salad or watermelon salad
Pismo's Clam Chowder
Your Choice: White, Spicy Red or, House Original, ½ and ½ Chowder
- Cup $3.99
- Bowl $4.99
- Mug $5.99
- Add bay shrimp topper $1.50
Clam Chowder Bread Bowl$9.99
Bread Bowl and Salad$13.99
Mug 'O Chowder and Salad$11.99
Hot Appetizers
Pismo's Famous Stuffed Sourdough Round Bread$2.99
Grilled Artichokes$8.99
lemon-garlic aioli
Santa Maria Steak$10.99
wood grilled tri-tip, sweet BBQ sauce, creamy horseradish, crumbled bleu cheese
Hot Roasted Edamame$4.99
Pistachio Crusted Calamari$9.99
lemon beurre blanc
Pismo's Crab Cakes$12.99
lemon beurre blanc
Fried Snapper Bites$10.99
crispy fried snapper nuggets, tartar and cocktail sauce
Crispy Fried Calamari$11.99
Thai chili sauce and tartar sauce
Steamed Manila Clams or Pacific Mussels
garlic, white wine butter
- Regular $9.99
- Large $14.99
Wood Grilled BBQ Oysters$9.99
Fried Oysters$11.99
Garlic Fries$5.99
Sweet Potato Fries$7.99
cilantro-jalapeno sauce
Fish and Chips
cole slaw and fries
Fish and Chips$13.99
Snapper and Chips$15.99
Asian Snapper$16.99
Asian cole slaw and sweet potato fries
Starter Salads
Mixed Green
Mixed greens, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, sourdough croutons. Dressings: creamy bleu cheese, ranch, louie, Italian, champagne vinaigrette
- $4.99
- $8.99
Romaine, sourdough croutons, arugula, parmesan cheese
- $4.99
- $8.99
Creamy bleu, bacon bits, crumbled bleu cheese, cherry tomatoes, radishes
- $5.99
- $8.99
Wilted Spinach
Warm bacon vinaigrette, bleu cheese, chopped egg, fried shallots
- $5.99
- $9.99
Beet and Goat Cheese
Baby greens, Slow roasted beets, herb goat cheese, toasted hazelnuts, orange vinaigrette
- $6.99
- $10.99
Summer Asparagus Salad$7.99
Snap peas, tomato, croutons, bacon, egg, champagne vinaigrette
Louie Salads
Ultimate Combo Louie$19.99
Jumbo prawns, shrimp, Dungeness crab, hard boiled egg, gherkins, green beans, tomatoes
Shrimp Louie$16.99
Dungeness Crab Louie
- 3 Oz. $17.99
Double Crab Louie
- 6 Oz. $24.99
Albacore Tuna Salad$14.99
American sustainable albacore tuna, mixed greens, tomatoes, shell pasta, green beans, hard boiled eggs, champagne vinaigrette
Iron Pot Cioppino
spicy wine-tomato sauce with lots of clams, mussels, shrimp, scallop and white fish
- $23.99
- with Dungeness Crab Meat $29.99
Linguini and Clams
fresh manila clams, linguini pasta in a light white wine garlic sauce
- $16.99
- Double Clams $19.99
Jumbo Shrimp Pasta$18.99
linguini pasta in a light white wine garlic sauce
Jumbo Shrimp and Clams Pasta$19.99
Seafood Pasta$16.99
spaghetti noodles with shrimp, scallops, calamari, broccolini in a light spicy tomato-wine sauce
Pesto Seafood Pasta$16.99
linguini pasta, calamari, shrimp, scallops, broccolini in a light pesto sauce
Burgers, Sandwiches
Fries or cole slaw
$1.50 for garlic fries or sweet potato fries
Beach Burger$13.99
caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, bacon and Tillamook cheddar cheese
California Burger$13.99
avocado, bacon, tomatoes, arugula, crispy onions, jack cheese, cilantro aioli
Pier Burger$11.99
lettuce, tomato, American cheese, special sauce
Spiced Crusted Tri-Tip Sandwich$12.99
watercress, crispy shallots, pickled red onions, horseradish dressing
Chicken BLT Sandwich$12.99
rosemary grilled chicken, arugula, tomato, bacon, cilantro aioli
Blackened Salmon Burger$12.99
roasted red pepper aioli, crispy shallot slaw
Mahi Mahi Sandwich$12.99
grilled fresh Mahi, tomatoes, tartar sauce, chopped romaine
Pismo's Dinner and Salad Plates
Served with two regular sides or Salad ($2 extra for beet and goat cheese, $3 for asparagus salad)
Regular Side Choices
Roasted cauliflower with almonds, fries, rice du jour, cilantro rice, potato au gratin with bacon, steamed broccoli, tabouli salad, white bean and local squash sofrito,
Heirloom tomatoes
with basil vinaigrette
- add $1.00
Primo Side Choices
Salad, Grilled artichokes, Creamy polenta, Pasta du Jour
Top Your Fish$4.99
With Our Shrimp or Crab Topper
Grilled or Crusted Alaskan Halibut$27.99
Grilled Wild Sea Bass$24.99
Grilled Atlantic Salmon$18.99
Grilled Wild Shark$17.99
Grilled Wild Blackened Snapper$16.99
Grilled Wild Mahi Mahi$22.99
Grilled Wild Swordfish$23.99
Grilled or Blackened White Sturgeon$21.99
Grilled Jumbo Prawns$18.99
Pistachio Crusted Calamari$15.99
Crab Cakes$21.99
Pan Seared Scallops$24.99
Pan Seared Scallops and Crab Cake Combo$23.99
Pan Seared Scallops and Calamari Combo$22.99
Butter Poached Lobster Tail
- 10-12oz. $34.99
Wood Grilled Favorites
Grilled Rosemary Chicken$15.99
Santa Maria Sirloin$17.99
Rib Eye Steak
herb butter
- 15 oz. $26.99
Surf and Turf
Grilled Rosemary Chicken and Shrimp$19.99
Santa Maria Sirloin and Shrimp$23.99
Grilled Rib Eye and Pan Seared Scallops$32.99
Santa Maria Sirloin and Pan Seared Scallops$26.99
Rib Eye and Lobster Tail$49.99
Santa Maria Sirloin and Lobster Tail$44.99
Dungeness Crab Dinners
Served with two sides or one premium side. Served hot with melted butter or chilled - marinated in our crab o' matic.
Sirloin and Dungeness Crab
- 10 Oz. $25.99
Rib Eye and Dungeness Crab
- 10 Oz. $32.99
Cracked Dungeness Crab Dinner
- 20 Oz. $29.99
Coastal Desserts
Bourbon Pineapple Upside Down Cake$7.99
Moist yellow cake with caramelized pineapples, warm bourbon caramel sauce
Lemon Mascapone Cheesecake$7.25
Almond graham crust, lemon curd
Warm Brownie a la Mode$7.25
French vanilla ice cream, hazelnut crème anglaise
Kid's Menu
For 10 years and younger. With one drink choice
Chicken Fingers and fries$5.99
Grilled Cheese and fries$5.99
Buttered Noodles$5.99
Popcorn Shrimp and fries$6.99
Grilled Mahi and fries$6.99
Grilled Salmon and fries$6.99
Fried Snapper and fries$6.99
Iced Tea, Tropical Green Tea or Sodas$2.99
Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Dr. Pepper, Mug's Root Beer, Orange Crush, Sobe Lean Cranberry/Grapefruit
Still or Sparkling Water
Still or Sparkling Water
Numi Organic Hot Teas$3.50
Breakfast blend, Earl Grey, Gunpowder Green, Orange Spice, Lemon Meadows (decaf)
America's Best Coffee Italian Roast or Decaf Coffee$3.50
claim this location
Disclaimer: Pricing and availability subject to change.
Browse Nearby
General Info
Fresno, CA 93720
About Us
Pismo's Coastal Grill is the newest restaurant in Fresno celebrating California's Central Coast! We are a full service restaurant featuring a variety of central coast wines, delicious seafood, coastal BBQ, and that fun beach experience. Fresh is king at Pismo's; and enormous effort and planning has gone into securing the very freshest and most pristine ingredients. Our oyster bar and wood fire grill are part of our open view kitchen for our guests to see just how fresh our food really is. We offer a Fresh Fish Market, with fresh cut fish delivered daily, inside our restaurant; for you to enjoy the finest quality of fish and hand selected wine in your own home.We have developed a fabulous menu with the quality and flavor of food that surpasses all expectations. Our Coastal theme is represented by an open air feel with unique roll up windows, adirondack style booths, Santa Barbara rock columns and a hand crafted wooden boat in the entry.Our goal is to exceed each guest's expectations with a memorable experience every time.


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ATHENS, Greece -- Remember the 2000 Games? There were no cereal boxes. No commercials. No celebrations. No new American prepubescent sweethearts.
All because there were no medals.
Not from women's gymnastics, anyway.
Four years after Kerri Strug's one-footed stab of a gold medal in '96 -- which brought out more tears around our nation than "Beaches" -- Team USA was shut out. And so, we had to look elsewhere for our Olympic hero, and found that hero in ... wait. Who was the hero of the '00 Games again?
The track stars who rubbed the flag around themselves as if they were drying off from a dip in the ocean?
Nope. America loves its gymnasts. And we had our crowns ready, but the princesses tripped on the way over.
Things have changed. Now, Team USA is being headlined as the deepest, most talented, most gold-medal hungry American squad ever, despite the fact that no one on the team has ever won a medal. That likely will change Tuesday, when the team finals are decided.
Featured on the U.S. team are a pair of 26-year-olds, which in gymnastics years is so old you might as well have moved from MTV to VH1, from a Beemer to an minivan, from double cheeseburgers to "My doctor says ..."
Yet here is Team USA: bold, confident, friendly, giggling, and ready to leave town with a pirate's treasure. "I don't think it matters what position we're in," says one of the 26-year-olds, Mohini Bhardwaj. "Maybe people think we're coming in as underdogs. That's fine. The fact that we're reigning world champions, that's great too. This is a different team."
Different indeed. This team beat Romania at the world championships last summer by 1.74 points -- a whipping so bad it was as if Romania were the Bills in a Super Bowl. This is a team that features world champion Courtney Kupets and Carly Patterson, the only American scheduled to compete in all four events in the team finals. Courtney McCool, who also will compete in the all-around, is only an alternate in one event Tuesday. Terin Humphrey would have been a favorite in the all-around in any other year. Bhardwaj and Annia Hatch are vault specialists.
This team is so good that three -- yes, three -- world champions were left off.
But with all the talent comes hype.
Skim the packet of articles that USA Gymnastics hands out to media members and you'll see these lines:
"Possibly the most dominant gymnastics team in the history of our sport."
"One of the strongest and deepest teams ever."
"Most talented U.S. lineup ever?"
Other than that, no pressure.
While some were pleased to see the Karolyis, gymnastics version of a Bobby Knight couple, go home empty in 2000, they learned from the disappointment. They loosened up the training schedule, letting the gymnasts work out in their hometowns and visit Camp Karolyi in Texas once a month for progress reports. They had their coach, Kelli Hill, make sure that friendship on the team was a 9.9.
Kupets and Patterson, who finished 1-2 at the U.S. trials, are the superstars, 1 and 1-A. McCool is lurking as an all-around contender if she can recover from her shaky performance in Sunday's team prelims. Humphrey's balance is being counted on to win the team medal. The 26-year-olds are the feel-good stories: Hatch a Cuban immigrant; Bhardwaj the reborn star who's dream is being aided by a certain implanted "Baywatch" star who flew halfway around the world to be here.
In the next few days, you'll hear and read every one of their stories, but the overarching bill is that this is the team that will knock out every other country. A hero will emerge. Or maybe six will.
Either way, America is ready. The gymnastics team had better be, too.
The crown is getting heavy.
Seth Wickersham covers the Olympics for ESPN The Magazine.


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"PUNK! PUNK! PUNK!" Vintage T-shirt
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