A water softening apparatus comprises a regeneration tank and a brine tank. In particular, methods and compositions comprising substituted ethylene diamines for the treatment of infectious diseases are provided. The dummy gate is then replaced with a metal gate formed around the dielectric-filled vias. When the message text does not include a notable word in the notable words collection, the message is posted on the bulletin board. These frictional forces are opposed and eventually overcome by a steam pressure generated from within the container, whereby the cap is driven from a closed to a vented position. Sensors are provided for the detection of at least two different displacement positions of the coupling rod parts.