最新美国发明专利第2012-08-07期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US08236759B2	GLP-1 pharmaceutical compositions The present invention is directed to peptide analogues of glucagon-like peptide-1, the pharmaceutically-acceptable salts thereof, to methods of using such analogues to treat mammals and to pharmaceutical compositions useful therefore comprising said analogues.
US08236758B2	Method of treatment of diabestes or reduction in pancreatic beta-cells Disclosed are: an insulin secretion inducer; an insulin secretion-inducing composition; a process for the production of the composition; an accelerator for increasing the number of pancreatic β-cells; a composition for increasing the number of pancreatic β-cells; a process for the production of the composition; and a viral vector for gene therapy. The insulin secretion inducer or the accelerator for increasing the number of pancreatic β-cells comprises a polypeptide having an amino acid sequence encoded by DNA that is known to encode a membrane protein Tm4sf20 (transmembrane 4 L six family member 20) or the like or a fragment of the polypeptide as an active ingredient.
US08236757B2	AXMI-027, AXMI-036 and AXMI-038, a family of delta-endotoxin genes and methods for their use Compositions and methods for conferring pesticidal activity to bacteria, plants, plant cells, tissues and seeds are provided. Compositions comprising a coding sequence for a delta-endotoxin polypeptide are provided. The coding sequences can be used in DNA constructs or expression cassettes for transformation and expression in plants and bacteria. Compositions also comprise transformed bacteria, plants, plant cells, tissues, and seeds. In particular, isolated delta-endotoxin nucleic acid molecules are provided. Additionally, amino acid sequences corresponding to the polynucleotides are encompassed. In particular, the present invention provides for isolated nucleic acid molecules comprising nucleotide sequences encoding the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NOS:2, 11 and 13, or the nucleotide sequences set forth in SEQ ID NOS:1, 10 and 12, as well as variants and fragments thereof.
US08236756B2	Prodrugs cleavable by CD26 The present invention provides a new prodrug technology and new prodrugs in order to increase the solubility, to modulate plasma protein binding or to enhance the biovailability of a drug. In the present invention the prodrugs are conjugates of a therapeutic compound and a peptide (eg tetrapeptide or hexapeptide) wherein the conjugate is cleavable by dipeptidyl-peptidases, more preferably by CD26, also known as DPPIV (dipeptidyl aminodipeptidase IV). The present invention furthermore provides a method of producing the prodrugs, to enhance brain and lymphatic delivery of drugs and/or to extend drug half-lives in plasma.
US08236755B2	Opioid depot formulations The present invention relates to pre-formulations comprising low viscosity, non-liquid crystalline, mixtures of: a) at least one neutral diacyl lipid and/or at least one tocopherol; b) at least one phospholipid; c) at least one biocompatible, oxygen containing, low viscosity organic solvent; wherein at least one opioid bioactive agent is dissolved or dispersed in the low viscosity mixture and wherein the pre-formulation forms, or is capable of forming, at least one liquid crystalline phase structure upon contact with an aqueous fluid. The preformulations are suitable for generating parenteral, non-parenteral and topical depot compositions for sustained release of active agents. The invention additionally relates to a method of delivery of an active agent comprising administration of a preformulation of the invention, a method of treatment comprising administration of a preformulation of the invention and the use of a preformulation of the invention in a method for the manufacture of a medicament. The method of treatments is especially for opioid addiction, dependence and/or withdrawal.
US08236754B2	Methods for improving the structure and function of arterioles The present invention relates to the unexpected finding that vessels smaller than even the smallest arteries (i.e. arterioles) thicken, become dysfunctional and cause end organ damage to tissues as diverse as the brain and the kidney. Methods are provided to improve the structure and function of arterioles and to preserve the function of end organs such as the brain and kidney. In various embodiments the methods involve administering to a mammal in need thereof “D” or “L” class A amphipathic helical peptides.
US08236752B1	Pharmaceutical composition of nanoparticles The invention relates to a method for treating disorders or diseases of a tight junction comprising delivering a pharmaceutical composition of nanoparticles to the tight junction, wherein the nanoparticles consist of positively charged chitosan, a negatively charged substrate, optionally a zero-charge compound, and at least one bioactive agent for treating said disorders or diseases of the tight junction of an animal subject.
US08236750B2	Composition comprising a pulmonary surfactant and a TNF-derived peptide The invention relates to the combination of a pulmonary surfactant and a TNF-derived peptide and its use for the treatment of respiratory disease.
US08236747B2	Consumer product packets with enhanced performance The present invention includes a consumer product packet comprising a capsule and a fill composition within the capsule. The capsule has a tack temperature of about 110° F. or higher and substantially dissolves in water within a predetermined time period at a temperature of about 70° F. or lower. In one example, the capsule comprises a film having at least one polymer, at least one plasticizer, and at least one temperature adjusting agent. Dependent on the fill composition, the consumer product packet may be used for any household or personal use. In one example, the fill composition is a detergent concentrate comprises one or more surfactants, one or more humectants, and a coalescing solvent which has hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value from about 7 to about 9, wherein the ratio of the one or more humectants to the coalescing solvent is more than 1.
US08236743B2	Process for inhibiting dyed hair fibers from losing their color during shampooing A process for inhibiting dyed hair fibers from losing their color during shampooing involving contacting the dyed hair fibers with a composition containing: (a) at least one polyamine compound having at least two amino groups; (b) at least one anionic silicone; and (c) optionally, at least one surfactant, and wherein (a) is present in the composition in an amount sufficient to inhibit the dyed hair fibers from losing their color during shampooing.
US08236742B2	Metal working oil composition, metal working method and metal work A metal working oil composition which is used for a very small amount of oil-feeding type metal working methods comprising a base oil selected from the group consisting of natural fats, derivatives thereof and synthetic ester oils, and a phospholipid is disclosed. The metal working oil composition of the present invention has good lubricating properties and is suitable for processing metallic materials such as cast irons steel, stainless steel and the like by the very small amount of oil-feeding type metal working method.
US08236739B2	Zirconium-based cross-linker compositions and their use in high pH oil field applications A cross-linking composition which comprises (a) an aqueous liquid, (b) a cross-linkable organic polymer, and (c) a solution comprising a zirconium cross-linking agent which comprises a zirconium complex having a molar ratio of 1:2 to 1:4 of zirconium to triethanolamine and a molar ratio of 1:0.1 to 1:1 of zirconium to N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-ethylene diamine. The composition can be used in oil field applications for hydraulic fracturing and plugging of permeable zones and leaks in subterranean formations.
US08236729B2	Herbicidal compositions Herbicide combinations comprising an effective amount of components (A) and (B), where component (A) is one or more herbicides of the formula (I) or salts thereof, in which R1 is H or a group of the formula CZ1Z2Z3, where Z1, Z2 and Z3 are as defined in claim 1, R2 and R3 are each H, alkyl, haloalkyl, alkenyl, haloalkenyl, alkynyl, haloalkynyl having in each case up to 4 carbon atoms or acyl, R4 is H, (C1-C6)-alkyl or (C1-C6)-alkoxy; R5, R6, R7 and R8 are each H, (C1-C4)-alkyl, (C1-C3)-haloalkyl, halogen, (C1-C3)-alkoxy, (C1-C3)-haloalkoxy or cyano; A is CH2 or O or a direct bond, and component (B) is one or more herbicides from the group of compounds consisting of (B1) soil-acting herbicides particularly suitable for pre-emergence application against monocotyledonous or dicotyledonous harmful plants, (B2) foliar-acting herbicides particularly suitable for post-emergence application against monocotyledonous or dicotyledonous harmful plants, and (B3) soil-acting and foliar-acting herbicides suitable for pre- or post-emergence application against monocotyledonous or dicotyledonous harmful plants, are suitable for controlling harmful plants.
US08236727B2	Oxygen-absorbing resin composition and oxygen-absorbing container comprising the same An oxygen-absorbing resin composition having excellent performance is provided which contains an oxygen-absorbing polyester and a polyolefin and has enhanced compatibility between the polymers to give an oxygen-absorbing layer inhibited from having a reduced cohesive force or an appearance failure such as roughness unevenness. The oxygen-absorbing resin composition is characterized by being obtained by melt-kneading the following ingredients (A) and (B) together with the following ingredient (C) as a compatibilizing agent. Ingredient (A): an oxygen-absorbing polyester; Ingredient (B): a polyolefin; and Ingredient (C): a copolymer of ethylene and a vinyl monomer having a hydroxy group or an ester bond, the copolymer having an ethylene proportion of 70-99 mol %.
US08236721B2	Inorganic composite binders with high-temperature resistance In certain examples, this invention provides an inorganic composite binder with high-temperature resistance comprising 5-12% of aluminum hydroxide, 15-35% of phosphoric acid, 0.1-1% of rare earth oxide, 5-20% of silica sol, 1-15% of polyaluminum phosphate, 1-5% of borax, based on the total weight of said binder, and the rest being water, and a method for producing the same. The binder of the example can be used in temporary protective coating layer such as the high temperature coating and the high temperature antioxidation coating layer during the heat treatment of the metal workpiece, can make it possible to form an antioxidation coating layer immediately upon directly spraying the coating onto the substrate surface of the metal at high temperature of 400-1000° C., and can continuously keep its good bonding property under the high temperature environment in the heating furnace, thereby it is helpful to reduce the oxidation loss of the metal material in the heat treatment, and improve the surface quality of the metal material; also, the binder of the invention is usable in patching material for high temperature kiln or refractory material to enhance the material strength and lengthen its service life.
US08236717B2	Glass plate for substrate Provided is a glass plate for a substrate, which comprises, as a glass matrix composition as represented by mass % based on oxide: SiO2: 70 to 80, Al2O3: 0.1 to 5, B2O3: 0 to 3, MgO: 9.5 to 12, where the amount of CaO+SrO+BaO is 0 to 2, and the amount of Na2O+K2O is 12.5 to 15.5, which has a density of at most 2.5 g/cm3, has an average coefficient of thermal expansion from 50 to 350° C. of more than 75×10−7/° C. and at most 87×10−7/° C., has a glass transition point of at least 560° C., has a brittleness of at most 6.5 μm−1/2, and has a heat shrinkage (C)of at most 20 ppm.
US08236714B2	Dyed fabric with visible and near infrared differential yarn fiber signature A fabric having a camouflage appearance in the near infrared (NIR) spectrum with a substantially a single color appearance in the visible (VIS) spectrum is provided. The novel fabric may include at least two synthetic polymer multifilament yarns. The multifilament yarns are selected from 3 types of multifilament yarns: multifilaments comprising carbon black, multifilaments comprising pigments which modify the NIR reflectance characteristics of the multifilaments, and multifilaments substantially free of additives capable of modifying the NIR reflectance characteristics of the multifilaments. The fabric is dyed to a substantially single color appearance in the visible spectrum. In general, the fabric has a NIR spectrum comprising two reflectance curves having about 10% to about 85% reflectance separated by about 5% reflectance in a range of wavelengths from about 700 to about 860 nanometers (nm).The fabric may be used to manufacture garments, equipment, tents and tarpaulins that exhibit a camouflage appearance in NIR reflectance observed using night vision devices. At the same time, these garments, equipment, tents and tarpaulins have a single color and substantially non-camouflage in the VIS reflectance spectrum.
US08236705B2	Deposition of viscous material Embodiments of the invention provide methods and systems for depositing a viscous material on a substrate surface. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of depositing a viscous material on a substrate surface, the method comprising: applying a pre-wet material to a surface of a substrate; depositing a viscous material atop the pre-wet material; rotating the substrate about an axis to spread the viscous material along the surface of the substrate toward a substrate edge; and depositing additional pre-wet material in a path along the surface and adjacent the spreading viscous material.
US08236703B2	Methods for removing contaminants from aluminum-comprising bond pads and integrated circuits therefrom Methods for removing contaminants from a semiconductor device that includes a plurality of aluminum-comprising bond pads on a semiconductor surface of a substrate. A plurality of aluminum-including bond pads are formed on the semiconductor surface of the substrate. A patterned passivation layer is then formed on the semiconductor surface, wherein the patterned passivation layer provides an exposed area for the plurality of bond pads. Wet etching with a basic etch solution is used to etch a surface of the exposed area of the aluminum-including bond pads, wherein the wet etching removes at least 100 Angstroms from the surface of the bond pads to form a cleaned surface.
US08236701B2	Plasma processing apparatus and plasma processing method A plasma processing apparatus includes a processing chamber arranged in a vacuum vessel. A wafer placed on a sample stage in the processing chamber is processed using a plasma formed in the processing chamber. Before etching the film layers provided on the wafer composed of a metal substance and an underlying oxide film or a material having a high dielectric constant, another wafer, provided on a surface thereof a film composed of a metal of the same kind as the metal substance, is processed and particles of the metal are deposited on an inner wall of said processing chamber.
US08236700B2	Method for patterning an ARC layer using SF6 and a hydrocarbon gas A method of pattern etching a Si-containing anti-reflective coating (ARC) layer is described. The method comprises etching a feature pattern into the silicon-containing ARC layer using plasma formed from a process gas containing SF6 and a hydrocarbon gas. The method further comprises adjusting a flow rate of the hydrocarbon gas relative to a flow rate of the SF6 to reduce a CD bias between a final CD for nested structures in the feature pattern and a final CD for isolated structures in the feature pattern.
US08236696B2	Transistor and method for fabricating the same A method for fabricating a semiconductor device to enlarge a channel region is provided. The channel region is enlarged due to having pillar shaped sidewalls of a transistor. The transistor includes a fin active region vertically protruding on a substrate, an isolation layer enclosing a lower portion of the fin active region, and a gate electrode crossing the fin active region and covering a portion of the fin active region. An isolation layer is formed enclosing a lower portion of the fin active region and the isolation layer under the spacers is partially removed to expose a portion of the sidewalls of the fin active region. Subsequently, dry etching is performed to form the sidewalls having a pillar/neck.
US08236695B2	Method of passivating chemical mechanical polishing compositions for copper film planarization processes A method of passivating a CMP composition by dilution and determining the relationship between the extent of dilution and the static etch rate of copper. Such relationship may be used to control the CMP composition during the CMP polish to minimize the occurrence of dishing or other adverse planarization deficiencies in the polished copper, even in the presence of substantial levels of copper ions in the CMP composition and at the copper/CMP composition interface.
US08236685B2	Phase change memory device having multiple metal silicide layers and method of manufacturing the same A phase change memory device having multiple metal silicide layers which enhances the current driving capability of switching elements and a method of manufacturing the same are presented. The device also includes switching elements, heaters, stack patterns, top electrodes, bit lines, word line contacts and word lines. The bottom of the switching elements are in electrical contact with the lower metal silicide layer and with an active area of silicon substrate. An upper metal silicide layer is interfaced between the top of the switching elements and the heaters. The stack patterns include phase change layers and top electrodes and are between the heaters and the top electrodes are in electrical contact with the top electrodes. The bit lines contact with the top electrode contacts. The word line contacts to the lower metal silicide film.
US08236683B2	Conductor structure including manganese oxide capping layer A microelectronic structure includes a dielectric layer located over a substrate. The dielectric layer is separated from a copper containing conductor layer by an oxidation barrier layer. The microelectronic structure also includes a manganese oxide layer located aligned upon a portion of the copper containing conductor layer not adjoining the oxidation barrier layer. A method for fabricating the microelectronic structure includes sequentially forming and sequentially planarizing within an aperture within a dielectric layer an oxidation barrier layer, a manganese containing layer (or alternatively a mobile and oxidizable material layer) and finally, a planarized copper containing conductor layer (or alternatively a base material layer comprising a material less mobile and oxidizable than the mobile and oxidizable material layer) to completely fill the aperture. The manganese layer and the planarized copper containing conductor layer are then thermally oxidized to form a manganese oxide layer self aligned to a portion of the copper containing conductor layer not adjoining the oxidation barrier layer.
US08236679B2	Manufacturing method of semiconductor memory device using insulating film as charge storage layer A manufacturing method of a semiconductor memory device includes forming a first gate electrode having a charge storage layer, a block layer, and a control gate electrode on a first region of a semiconductor substrate, forming a second gate electrode on a second region of the semiconductor substrate, forming a protective insulating film on a side surface of the block layer, exposing the first region while covering the second region on the semiconductor substrate with a photoresist, using the photoresist, the first gate electrode, and the protective insulating film as masks to implant an impurity into the first region of the semiconductor substrate, and removing the photoresist by wet etching which uses a mixed solution containing H2SO4 and H2O2. The protective insulating film having an etching selective ratio of 1:100 or above with respect to the photoresist under wet etching conditions using the mixed solution.
US08236666B2	Semiconductor device and process for producing same Provided is a semiconductor device including: a base plate; a thermally conductive resin layer formed on an upper surface of the base plate; an integrated layer which is formed on an upper surface of the thermally conductive resin layer, and includes an electrode and an insulating resin layer covering all side surfaces of the electrode; and a semiconductor element formed on an upper surface of the electrode, in which the integrated layer is thermocompression bonded to the base plate through the thermally conductive resin layer. This semiconductor device excels in insulating properties and reliability.
US08236663B2	Dual-damascene process to fabricate thick wire structure A method and semiconductor device. In the method, at least one partial via is etched in a stacked structure and a border is formed about the at least one partial via. The method further includes performing thick wiring using selective etching while continuing via etching to at least one etch stop layer.
US08236662B2	Bipolar transistor with raised extrinsic self-aligned base using selective epitaxial growth for BiCMOS integration High performance bipolar transistors with raised extrinsic self-aligned base are integrated into a BiCMOS structure containing CMOS devices. By forming pad layers and raising the height of an intrinsic base layer relative to the source and drain of preexisting CMOS devices and by forming an extrinsic base through selective epitaxy, the effect of topographical variations is minimized during a lithographic patterning of the extrinsic base. Also, by not employing any chemical mechanical planarization process during the fabrication of the bipolar structures, complexity of process integration is reduced. Internal spacers or external spacers may be formed to isolate the base from the emitter. The pad layers, the intrinsic base layer, and the extrinsic base layer form a mesa structure with coincident outer sidewall surfaces.
US08236659B2	Source and drain feature profile for improving device performance and method of manufacturing same An integrated circuit device and method for manufacturing the integrated circuit device is disclosed. The disclosed method provides improved control over a surface proximity and tip depth of integrated circuit device. In an embodiment, the method achieves improved control by forming a doped region and a lightly doped source and drain (LDD) region in a source and drain region of the device. The doped region is implanted with a dopant type opposite the LDD region.
US08236658B2	Methods for forming a transistor with a strained channel A semiconductor device and method for fabricating a semiconductor device providing reduced short channel effects is disclosed. The method comprises providing a substrate comprising a first material; forming at least one gate stack over the substrate; forming one or more recesses in the substrate, wherein the one or more recesses define at least one source region and at least one drain region; and forming a pocket, a first layer comprising a second material, and a second layer comprising a third material in the one or more recesses, the pocket being disposed between the first layer and the substrate.
US08236654B2	Reduction of threshold voltage variation in transistors comprising a channel semiconductor alloy by reducing deposition non-uniformities A threshold adjusting semiconductor material, such as a silicon/germanium alloy, may be provided selectively for one type of transistors on the basis of enhanced deposition uniformity. For this purpose, the semiconductor alloy may be deposited on the active regions of any transistors and may subsequently be patterned on the basis of a highly controllable patterning regime. Consequently, threshold variability may be reduced.
US08236653B2	Configuration and method to form MOSFET devices with low resistance silicide gate and mesa contact regions A novel integration scheme for forming power MOSFET, particularly forming salicided layers for both gate contact regions and mesa contact regions, as well as using multiple energy contact implants through the salicided layer to form conductive body contacts which short to the source region by the salicided layers.
US08236648B2	Trench MOS transistor and method of manufacturing the same Provided is a semiconductor device formed with a trench portion for providing a concave portion having a continually varying depth in a gate width direction and with a gate electrode provided within the trench portion and on a top surface thereof via a gate insulating film. Before the formation of the gate electrode, an impurity is added to at least a part of the source region and the drain region by ion implantation from an inner wall of the trench portion, and then heat treatment is performed for diffusion and activation to form a diffusion region from the surface of the trench portion down to a bottom portion thereof. Current flowing through a top surface of the concave portion of the gate electrode at high concentration can flow uniformly through the entire trench portion.
US08236647B2	Method for fabricating nonvolatile memory device Provided is a method for fabricating a nonvolatile memory device capable of improving charge retention characteristics. The method for fabricating a nonvolatile memory device includes forming a charge trapping layer with a memory region and a charge blocking region on a semiconductor substrate, and trapping charges in the charge blocking region of the charge trapping layer.
US08236646B2	Non-volatile memory manufacturing method using STI trench implantation A method for manufacturing an integrated circuit structure includes providing a semiconductor substrate and forming two trenches in the semiconductor substrate to define an active region therebetween. An implanted source region is formed in one of the trenches on one side of the active region. An implanted drain region is formed in the other trench on the other side of the active region. Shallow trench isolations are then formed in the trenches. One or more gates are formed over the active region, and contacts to the implanted source region and the implanted drain region are formed.
US08236643B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device including ferroelectric capacitor A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device with a ferroelectric capacitor, including, forming a lower insulating film on a semiconductor substrate, covering a MOS transistor, forming a lower electrode on the lower insulating film, forming a ferroelectric dielectric oxide film on the lower electrode, forming a first upper electrode on the dielectric oxide film, made of conductive oxide having a composition poor in oxygen, forming a second upper electrode on the first upper electrode, made of conductive oxide having a composition nearer to the stoichiometry, forming a third upper electrode on the second upper electrode, having a composition containing metal of the platinum group, constituting a ferroelectric capacitor, and forming a multilayer wiring structure above the lower interlevel insulating film, covering the ferroelectric capacitor, wherein the third upper electrode has a less oxygen composition than the first and second upper electrodes.
US08236641B2	Semiconductor device with extension structure and method for fabricating the same A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor region, a source region, a drain region, a source extension region a drain extension region, a first gate insulation film, a second gate insulation film, and a gate electrode. The source region, drain region, source extension region and drain extension region are formed in a surface portion of the semiconductor region. The first gate insulation film is formed on the semiconductor region between the source extension region and the drain extension region. The first gate insulation film is formed of a silicon oxide film or a silicon oxynitride film having a nitrogen concentration of 15 atomic % or less. The second gate insulation film is formed on the first gate insulation film and contains nitrogen at a concentration of between 20 atomic % and 57 atomic %. The gate electrode is formed on the second gate insulation film.
US08236640B2	Method of fabricating a semiconductor device having gate finger elements extended over a plurality of isolation regions formed in the source and drain regions Embodiments of the present invention describe a semiconductor device implementing the reduced-surface-field (RESURF) effect. The semiconductor device comprises a source/drain region having a plurality of isolation regions interleaved with source/drain extension regions. A gate electrode is formed on the semiconductor device, where the gate electrode includes gate finger elements formed over the isolation regions to induce capacitive coupling. The gate finger elements enhance the depletion of the source/drain extension regions, thus inducing a higher breakdown voltage.
US08236639B2	Semiconductor device manufacturing method A semiconductor device manufacturing method is a method of forming a semiconductor device that includes a cell part that includes plural transistor cells in each of which a gate of a trench type is formed in a semiconductor layer, and diffused layers are formed on both sides of the gate, and a guard ring part that surrounds the cell part. The semiconductor device manufacturing method includes forming an interlayer dielectric film on a surface of the semiconductor layer in which the gate and the diffused layers are formed; reducing a thickness of the interlayer dielectric film formed in the cell part through etch back; forming a contact part having a shape of a hole or a groove in the interlayer dielectric film at a position above the diffused layer; and forming a metal film on the interlayer dialectic film.
US08236635B2	Method for manufacturing semiconductor device In a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device including a channel-etched inverted-staggered thin film transistor, an oxide semiconductor film and a conductive film are etched using a mask layer formed with the use of a multi-tone mask which is a light-exposure mask through which light is transmitted so as to have a plurality of intensities. The etching step is performed by dry etching in which an etching gas is used.
US08236634B1	Integration of fin-based devices and ETSOI devices Thin semiconductor regions and thick semiconductor regions are formed oven an insulator layer. Thick semiconductor regions include at least one semiconductor fin. A gate conductor layer is patterned to form disposable planar gate electrodes over ETSOI regions and disposable side gate electrodes on sidewalls of semiconductor fins. End portions of the semiconductor fins are vertically recessed to provide thinned fin portions adjacent to an unthinned fin center portion. After appropriate masking by dielectric layers, selective epitaxy is performed on planar source and drain regions of ETSOI field effect transistors (FETs) to form raised source and drain regions. Further, fin source and drain regions are grown on the thinned fin portions. Source and drain regions, fins, and the disposable gate electrodes are planarized. The disposable gate electrodes are replaced with metal gate electrodes. FinFETs and ETSOI FETs are provided on the same semiconductor substrate.
US08236633B2	Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, by which a transistor including an active layer, a gate insulating film in contact with the active layer, and a gate electrode overlapping the active layer with the gate insulating film therebetween is provided; an impurity is added to a part of a first region overlapped with the gate electrode with the gate insulating film therebetween in the active layer and a second region but the first region in the active layer by adding the impurity to the active layer from one oblique direction; and the second region is situated in the one direction relative to the first region.
US08236632B2	FET structures with trench implantation to improve back channel leakage and body resistance An FET structure on a semiconductor substrate which includes forming recesses for a source and a drain of the gate structure on a semiconductor substrate, halo implanting regions through the bottom of the source and drain recesses, the halo implanted regions being underneath the gate stack, implanting junction butting at the bottom of the source and drain recesses, and filling the source and drain recesses with a doped epitaxial material. In exemplary embodiments, the semiconductor substrate is a semiconductor on insulator substrate including a semiconductor layer on a buried oxide layer. In exemplary embodiments, the junction butting and halo implanted regions are in contact with the buried oxide layer. In other exemplary embodiments, there is no junction butting. In exemplary embodiments, halo implants implanted to a lower part of the FET body underneath the gate structure provide higher doping level in lower part of the FET body to reduce body resistance, without interfering with FET threshold voltage.
US08236631B2	Four-transistor Schmitt trigger inverter with hysteresis A four-transistor Schmitt trigger inverter is provided. The Schmitt trigger inverter is made from an n-channel MOS (NMOS) dual-gate thin-film transistor (DG-TFT) and a p-channel MOS (PMOS) DG-TFT, both DG-TFTs having a top gate, a back gate, and source/drain regions. A (conventional) NMOS TFT has a gate connected to an NMOS DG-TFT first S/D region and a PMOS DG-TFT first S/D region. The NMOS TFT also has a first S/D region connected to the NMOS DG-TFT back gate and the PMOS DG-TFT back gate. A (conventional) PMOS TFT has a gate connected to the NMOS TFT gate, and a first S/D region connected to the NMOS TFT first S/D region.
US08236630B2	Manufacturing method of semiconductor device, semiconductor device, and electronic device An embrittlement layer is formed in a single crystal semiconductor substrate having a (110) plane as a main surface by irradiation of the main surface with ions, and an insulating layer is formed over the main surface of the single crystal semiconductor substrate. The insulating layer and a substrate having an insulating surface are bonded, and the single crystal semiconductor substrate is separated along the embrittlement layer to provide a single crystal semiconductor layer having the (110) plane as a main surface over the substrate having the insulating surface. Then, an n-channel transistor and a p-channel transistor are formed so as to each have a <110> axis of the single crystal semiconductor layer in a channel length direction.
US08236626B2	Narrow graphene nanoribbons from carbon nanotubes Disclosed is a method for making graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) by controlled unzipping of structures such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by etching (e.g., argon plasma etching) of nanotubes partly embedded in a polymer film. The GNRs have smooth edges and a narrow width distribution (2-20 nm). Raman spectroscopy and electrical transport measurements reveal the high quality of the GNRs. Such a method of unzipping CNTs with well-defined structures in an array will allow the production of GNRs with controlled widths, edge structures, placement and alignment in a scalable fashion for device integration. GNRs may be formed from nanostructures in a controlled array to form arrays of parallel or overlapping structures. Also disclosed is a method in which the CNTs are in a predetermined pattern that is carried over and transferred to a substrate for forming into a semiconductor device.
US08236622B2	Method for cutting electric fuse A semiconductor device includes an electric fuse formed on a semiconductor substrate and composed of an electric conductor. The electric fuse includes an upper layer interconnect, a via coupled to the upper interconnect and a lower layer interconnect coupled to the via, which are formed in different layers, respectively, in a condition before cutting the electric fuse, and wherein the electric fuse includes a flowing-out region formed of the electric conductor being flowed toward outside from the second interconnect and a void region formed between the first interconnect and the via or in the via, in a condition after cutting the electric fuse.
US08236619B2	Method of making a semiconductor chip assembly with a post/base heat spreader and a mulitlevel conductive trace A method of making a semiconductor chip assembly includes providing a post and a base, mounting a second adhesive on the base, mounting a substrate with a conductive pattern on the second adhesive, mounting a first adhesive on the substrate and mounting a conductive layer on the first adhesive, then flowing the first adhesive upward between the post and the conductive layer and flowing the second adhesive upward between the post and the substrate, solidifying the adhesives, then providing a conductive trace that includes a pad, a terminal, the conductive pattern, first and second vias and a selected portion of the conductive layer, mounting a semiconductor device on the post, wherein a heat spreader includes the post and the base, electrically connecting the semiconductor device to the conductive trace and thermally connecting the semiconductor device to the heat spreader.
US08236618B2	Method of making a semiconductor chip assembly with a post/base/post heat spreader A method of making a semiconductor chip assembly includes providing first and second posts, first and second adhesives and a base, wherein the first post extends from the base in a first vertical direction into a first opening in the first adhesive, the second post extends from the base in a second vertical direction into a second opening in the second adhesive and the base is sandwiched between and extends laterally from the posts, then flowing the first adhesive in the first vertical direction and the second adhesive in the second vertical direction, solidifying the adhesives, then providing a conductive trace that includes a pad and a terminal, wherein the pad extends beyond the base in the first vertical direction and the terminal extends beyond the base in the second vertical direction, providing a heat spreader that includes the posts and the base, then mounting a semiconductor device on the first post, electrically connecting the semiconductor device to the conductive trace and thermally connecting the semiconductor device to the heat spreader.
US08236617B2	Semiconductor device and method of forming thermally conductive layer between semiconductor die and build-up interconnect structure A semiconductor device has a thermally conductive layer with a plurality of openings formed over a temporary carrier. The thermally conductive layer includes electrically non-conductive material. A semiconductor die has a plurality of bumps formed over contact pads on the die. The semiconductor die is mounted over the thermally conductive layer so that the bumps are disposed at least partially within the openings in the thermally conductive layer. An encapsulant is deposited over the die and thermally conductive layer. The temporary carrier is removed to expose the bumps. A first interconnect structure is formed over the encapsulant, semiconductor die, and bumps. The bumps are electrically connected to the first interconnect structure. A heat sink or shielding layer can be formed over the semiconductor die. A second interconnect structure can be formed over the encapsulant and electrically connected to the first interconnect structure through conductive vias formed in the encapsulant.
US08236615B2	Passivation layer surface topography modifications for improved integrity in packaged assemblies A structure and method for producing the same is disclosed. The structure includes an organic passivation layer with solids suspended therein. Preferential etch to remove a portion of the organic material and expose portions of such solids creates enhanced surface roughness, which provides a significant advantage with respect to adhesion of that passivation layer to the packaging underfill material.
US08236610B2	Forming semiconductor chip connections Systems and methods are disclosed that enable forming semiconductor chip connections. In one embodiment, the semiconductor chip includes a body having a polyhedron shape with a pair of opposing sides; and a solder member extending along a side that extends between the pair of opposing sides of the polyhedron shape.
US08236606B2	Method and system for providing a low-profile semiconductor assembly A semiconductor assembly is provided that includes a substrate that has a first surface. A chip is coupled to the substrate. The chip has a second surface that faces the first surface of the substrate. The chip is spaced apart from the substrate forming a gap. At least a portion of the substrate is coupled to the chip by solder bumps. The solder bumps include a deformable material, such that as a height of the gap between the chip and the substrate increases, the solder bumps deform into a stretched state. An underfill material is applied between the substrate and the chip. The underfill material substantially fills the gap between the chip and the substrate and surrounds the solder bumps in the stretched state. Barricades comprising non-conductive protrusions are disposed between the first surface of the substrate and the second surface of the chip. The barricades confine the solder bumps in a compressed state.
US08236594B2	Semiconductor-on-diamond devices and associated methods Semiconductor-on-diamond devices and methods for making such devices are provided. One such method may include depositing a semiconductor layer on a semiconductor substrate, depositing an adynamic diamond layer on the semiconductor layer opposite the semiconductor substrate, and coupling a support substrate to the adynamic diamond layer opposite the semiconductor layer to support the adynamic layer.
US08236590B2	DBR laser with improved thermal tuning efficiency A distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) includes a base substrate and a gain medium formed on the base substrate. A waveguide positioned above the base substrate in optical communication with the gain medium and defines a gap extending between the base substrate and the waveguide along a substantial portion of the length thereof. The waveguide may have a grating formed therein. A heating element is in thermal contact with the waveguide and electrically coupled to a controller configured to adjust optical properties of the waveguide by controlling power supplied to the heating element.
US08236586B2	Method of fabricating light emitting device A method of fabricating a light emitting device includes forming a plurality of light emitting elements on light emitting element mounting regions, respectively, of a substrate, forming lens supports on the light emitting element mounting regions, respectively, are raised relative to isolation regions of the substrate located between neighboring ones of the light emitting element mounting regions, and forming lenses covering the light emitting elements on the lens support patterns, respectively.
US08236578B2	Electronic device including a magneto-resistive memory device and a process for forming the electronic device A process of forming an electronic device can include forming a stack including a tunnel barrier layer. The tunnel barrier layer can have a ratio of the metal atoms to oxygen atoms of greater than a stoichiometric ratio, wherein the ratio has a particular value. The process can also include forming a gettering layer having a composition capable of gettering oxygen, and depositing an insulating layer over the gettering layer. The process can further include exposing the insulating layer to a temperature of at least approximately 60° C. In one embodiment, after such exposure, a portion of the gettering layer is converted to an insulating material. In another embodiment, an electronic device can include a magnetic tunnel junction and an adjacent insulating layer lying within an opening in another insulating layer.
US08236577B1	Foundry compatible process for manufacturing a magneto meter using lorentz force for integrated systems A method for fabricating an integrated electronic compass and circuit system. The fabrication method begins with providing a semiconductor substrate comprising a surface region. One or more CMOS integrated circuits are then formed on one or more portions of the semiconductor substrate. Once the CMOS circuits are formed, a thickness of dielectric material is formed overlying the one or more CMOS integrated circuits. A substrate is then joined overlying the thickness of the dielectric material. Once joined, the substrate is thinned to a predetermined thickness. Following the thinning process, an electric compass device is formed within one or more regions of the predetermined thickness of the substrate. Other mechanical devices or MEMS devices can also be formed within one or more regions of the thinned substrate.
US08236573B2	Microflow analytical system A microflow analytical system includes a laminate pump assembly connectable with one or more sources of fluid, one or more pneumatic control pumps, a mixer, and a sensor. The laminate pump assembly is adapted to deliver predetermined volumes of the fluid(s) through a plurality of flow paths which are formed within layers of the assembly. Each flow path can include an inlet valve, a pump valve, and an outlet valve each of which are controllable by the pneumatic control pumps. A series of manifolds can be formed within the layers of the pump assembly to provide for simultaneous activation of selected flow paths. Delivered fluid volumes can be mixed in the mixer which, in some embodiments, may be integral with the laminate pump assembly. The sensor can measure one or more characteristics of the mixed fluids to determine one or more properties of the fluids.
US08236570B2	Methods for identifying nucleic acid ligands The present invention generally relates to methods for identifying nucleic acid ligands of a target molecule. In certain embodiments, the invention provides methods for identifying a nucleic acid ligand of a target molecule from a candidate mixture of nucleic acids, including contacting at least one target molecule with a candidate mixture of nucleic acids, in which the nucleic acids have different affinities for the target molecule, and separating in a single step nucleic acids that bind the target molecule with greatest affinity from nucleic acids that bind the target molecule with a lesser affinity and nucleic acids that do not bind the target molecule, thereby identifying the nucleic acid ligand of the target molecule.
US08236568B2	Method for analyzing hemostasis A method and device for blood hemostasis analysis is disclosed. A blood sample is displaced to reach a resonant state. The resonant frequency of the blood sample is determined before, during and after a hemostasis process. The changes in the resonant frequency of the blood sample are indicative of the hemostasis characteristics of the blood sample.
US08236562B2	Method for producing ready to use, antigen-loaded or unloaded, cryoconserved mature dendritic cells The invention relates to a method for producing ready to use, antigen loaded or unloaded, cryoconserved mature dendritic cells especially for the production of a vaccine containing said dendritic cells, wherein immature dendritic cells are cultivated in the presence of suitable maturation stimuli and the mature dendritic cells thus obtained are frozen. The dendritic cells can be loaded with antigen before freezing. The invention also relates to a vaccine which can be obtained according to the inventive method and to a composition containing frozen, mature dendritic cells which are loaded with antigen.
US08236561B2	Efficient production of IgA in recombinant mammalian cells The invention provides an immortalized human retina cell expressing E1A and E1B proteins of an adenovirus, wherein the cell has recombinant nucleic acid encoding an IgA molecule in expressible format. Also provided is a method for recombinant production of an IgA molecule, the method involving culturing a cell of the invention and expressing the recombinant nucleic acid encoding an IgA.
US08236560B2	Modified Vaccinia Ankara virus variant and cultivation method The present invention provides an attenuated virus, which is derived from Modified Vaccinia Ankara virus and characterized by the loss of its capability to reproductively replicate in human cell lines. It further describes recombinant viruses derived from this virus and the use of the virus, or its recombinants, as a medicament or vaccine. A method is provided for inducing an immune response in individuals who may be immune-compromised, receiving antiviral therapy, or have a pre-existing immunity to the vaccine virus. In addition, a method is provided for the administration of a therapeutically effective amount of the virus, or its recombinants, in a vaccinia virus prime/vaccinia virus boost inoculation regimen. The present invention relates to a method of virus amplification in primary cells which are cultivated in a serum free medium. Viruses produced by this method are advantageously free of any infectious agents comprised in animal sera.
US08236559B2	Therapeutic human anti-IL-1R1 monoclonal antibody Antibodies that interact with interleukin-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) are described. Methods of treating IL-1 mediated diseases by administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of antibodies to IL-1R1 are described. Methods of detecting the amount of IL-1R1 in a sample using antibodies to IL-1R1 are described.
US08236551B2	Compositions and methods for production of fermentable sugars The present application provides genetically modified fungal organisms that produce enzyme mixtures exhibiting enhanced hydrolysis of cellulosic material to glucose, enzyme mixtures produced by the genetically modified fungal organisms, and processes for producing glucose from cellulose using such enzyme mixtures.
US08236550B2	Genetic cluster of strains of Streptococcus thermophilus having appropriate acidifying and texturizing properties for dairy fermentations The invention relates to a genetic cluster of strains of Streptococcus thermophilus, which have a lysotype distinct from that of the strains currently used. Within this cluster novel acidifying and texturizing strains have been identified.
US08236548B2	Minicircle DNA vector preparations and methods of making and using the same The present invention provides minicircle nucleic acid vector formulations for use in administering to a subject, wherein the minicircle nucleic acid vectors include a polynucleotide of interest, a product hybrid sequence of a unidirectional site-specific recombinase, and are devoid of plasmid backbone bacterial DNA sequences. Also provided are methods of producing the subject formulations as well as methods for administering the minicircle nucleic acid vector formulations to a subject. The subject methods and compositions find use in a variety of different applications, including both research and therapeutic applications.
US08236546B2	Variant Humicola grisea CBH1.1 Disclosed are variants of Humicola grisea Cel7A (CBH1.1), H. jecorina CBH1 variant or S. thermophilium CBH1, nucleic acids encoding the same and methods for producing the same. The variant cellulases have the amino acid sequence of a glycosyl hydrolase of family 7A wherein one or more amino acid residues are substituted.
US08236545B2	TS23 alpha-amylase variants with altered properties Described are variants (mutants) of a parent alpha-amylase having alpha-amylase activity and exhibiting altered properties relative to the parent alpha-amylase, and methods of use, thereof.
US08236544B2	Methods of improving the introduction of DNA into bacterial cells The present invention relates to methods of improving the introduction of DNA into bacterial host cells.
US08236537B2	Ferulate esterase producing strains for the enhancement of biogas production Compositions of ferulate esterase producing bacterial strains or functional mutants thereof and methods of using ferulate esterase producing bacterial strains as silage inoculants for the enhancement of biogas production are disclosed. Ferulate esterase producing bacterial strains of Lactobacillus, including Lactobacillus buchneri, or functional mutants thereof are used as silage inoculants to improve the degradation of plant biomass for enhanced production of biogas.
US08236533B2	Process for the production of γ-glutamylcysteine The present invention relates to a process for preparing a compound comprising an α,γ amide linkage between a cysteine moiety and a glutamic acid moiety, such as γ-glutamylcysteine or a γ-glutamylcysteine derivative, the process comprising providing a cysteine derivative, a γ-glutamyl donor and an enzyme capable of transferring the γ-glutamyl group to said cysteine derivative in a reaction environment promoting transfer of the γ-glutamyl group to said cysteine derivative. The invention also relates to compounds comprising an α,γ amide linkage between a cysteine moiety and a glutamic acid moiety, such as γ-glutamylcysteine or a γ-glutamylcysteine derivative, when obtained by processes of the invention, and uses thereof.
US08236523B2	Camp reporters and high throughput assays cAMP reporters useful for obtaining measurements of cAMP levels with high spatial and temporal resolution and in high throughput assays.
US08236522B2	Bacterial extract for digestive or urinary tract disorders and process for its preparation The present invention relates to an extract from bacterial strains useful as a treatment for disorders such as digestive or urinary tract disorders, compositions comprising the extract, and processes of making the extract from media that do not pose a risk of prion diseases.
US08236515B2	Method for detecting ATP Methods are provided for detection of concentrations of less than 3.4 picomolar of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) using recombinant luciferase in the luciferin-luciferase reaction. Aspects include a low pH composition for use in detecting the presence of ATP. The low pH composition can include low concentrations of detergents and can be used in combination with methods for reading, calculating and interpreting luminescence generated by the ATP-luciferin-luciferase reaction.
US08236511B2	Quantitation of cellular DNA and cell numbers using element labeling Methods and kits for the quantitation of cellular DNA and cell numbers are provided. Passive element uptake, element-labeled DNA intercalators, and element labeled affinity reagents are used to quantify DNA and cells. The DNA and the cells are analyzed by elemental analysis, including ICP-MS. The methods and kits provide a fast and accurate analysis of cellular DNA and cell numbers.
US08236507B2	Modulators of TNF receptor associated factor (TRAF), their preparation and use A DNA sequence encoding a protein capable of binding to a tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor (TRAF) molecule, TRAF-binding proteins, their isoforms, analogs, fragments and derivatives encoded by the DNA sequence, their methods for the production of the DNA sequences and proteins, and the uses for the DNA sequence and proteins.
US08236503B2	Methods of monitoring conditions by sequence analysis There is a need for improved methods for determining the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with conditions, including autoimmune disease and cancer. Provided herein are methods for using DNA sequencing to identify personalized biomarkers in patients with autoimmune disease and other conditions. Identified biomarkers can be used to determine the disease state for a subject with an autoimmune disease or other condition.
US08236496B2	Use of gene activity classifiers for the in vitro classification of gene expression profiles of patients with infectious/non-infectious multiple organ failure The present invention relates to the use of gene activity markers for classification of patients suffering from infectious and non-infectious multiple organ failure, respectively.The present invention in particular relates to gene activity markers for classification of patients as “not infected without multiple organ failure” or as “not suffering from infectious multiple organ failure” or as “suffering from infectious multiple organ failure”, the gene activity markers being polynucleotides selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID I.1, SEQ ID I.2, SEQ ID I.3, SEQ ID I.4, SEQ ID I.5, SEQ ID I.6, SEQ ID I.7, SEQ ID I.8 and SEQ ID I.9 or partial sequences thereof.
US08236495B2	Process and equipment for plasmid purification A scalable alkaline lysis process, including procedures and devices for the isolation of large quantities (grams and kilograms) of plasmid DNA from recombinant E. coli cells. Effective, controllable, and economical operation, and consistent low level of host chromosomal DNA in the final plasmid product. Involves a series of new unit operations and devices for cell resuspension, cell lysis, and neutralization.
US08236494B2	Genes of an otitis media isolate of nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae The invention relates to the polynucleotide sequence of a nontypeable stain of Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) and polypeptides encoded by the polynucleotides and uses thereof. The invention also relates to NTHi genes which are upregulated during or in response to NTHi infection of the middle ear and/or the nasopharynx.
US08236492B2	Decontamination of prion-contaminated surfaces with phenols A method of decontaminating a surface or liquid which is contaminated with prions includes treating the surface with a composition which includes one or more phenol. Phenols which are particularly effective include p-chloro-m-xylanol, thymol, triclosan, 4-chloro, 3-methylphenol, pentachlorophenol, hexachlorophene, 2,2-methyl-bis(4-chlorophenol), and p-phenylphenol.
US08236489B2	Chemo-sensitivity assays using tumor cells exhibiting persistent phenotypic characteristics The assays, methods, tools and systems discussed herein represent an improved and unified system for monitoring the progression of an individual patient malignancy. The assays, methods, tools and systems discussed herein represent an improved and unified system for monitoring and for identifying cellular and secreted markers, for screening cells to detect phenotypic and genotypic drift and for predicting chemotherapeutic response of patient tumor cells to at least one therapeutic agent. The assays, methods, tools and systems discussed herein also represent an improved and unified system for monitoring and for screening multiple pharmaceutical agents for efficacy and long term effect as to a specific patient.
US08236485B2	Photoresist removal Disclosed herein is a composition and method for semiconductor processing. In one embodiment, a wet-cleaning composition for removal of photoresist is provided. The composition comprises a strong base; an oxidant; and a polar solvent. In another embodiment, a method for removing photoresist is provided. The method comprises the steps of applying a wet-cleaning composition comprising about 0.1 to about 30 weight percent strong base; about one to about 30 weight percent oxidant; about 20 to about 95 weight percent polar solvent; and removing the photoresist.
US08236482B2	Photoresist compositions and methods of use in high index immersion lithography The present invention relates to a composition comprising a photoresist polymer and a fluoropolymer. In one embodiment, the fluoropolymer comprises a first monomer having a pendant group selected from alicyclic bis-hexafluoroisopropanol and aryl bis-hexafluoroisopropanol and preferably a second monomer selected from fluorinated styrene and fluorinated vinyl ether. The invention composition has improved receding contact angles with high refractive index hydrocarbon fluids used in immersion lithography and, thereby, provides improved performance in immersion lithography.
US08236481B2	Method to fabricate a redirecting mirror in optical waveguide devices A method of fabricating a turning mirror for an optical device includes the steps of depositing on a substrate, which defines a plane in which an optical signal propagates in a propagating direction, a photoresist layer sensitive to electrons and to UV radiation. The material in which the photoresist layer is formed, has a contrast not larger than 3. A first portion of the photoresist layer is exposed to an electron beam, wherein the electron dose of the electron beam exposure is varied within the first portion according to a selected pattern, and wherein the electron does to which a given region in the photoresist is exposed, depends on the resulting photoresist height in the given region after development. A second portion of the photoresist layer is exposed to UV radiation; the first and the second portions are overlapped at least in a third portion. The photoresist layer is developed so as to form in the third portion of the photoresist layer exposed to both electron beam and to UV radiation a first surface having an angle relative to the propagating direction. The substrate and the photoresist are etched so that a second angled surface is formed in the substrate in correspondence to the third portion. The second surface forms an angle with the propagating direction.
US08236474B2	Method for manufacturing toner, toner, developer, developing device and image forming apparatus A method for manufacturing a toner is provided. The method for manufacturing a toner uses a rotary stirring apparatus. The rotary stirring apparatus includes at least a circulation section, a temperature regulation section and a spraying section composed of a two-fluid nozzle. The two-fluid nozzle includes a liquid pipe and an air pipe, the liquid pipe is inserted in the air pipe such that an axis of the liquid pipe coincides with an axis of the air pipe, and at least a part of the liquid pipe and the air pipe is fixed such that the centers of those pipes do not move. A substance in liquid form is sprayed in constant rate from the two-fluid nozzle while regulating temperature and circulating the toner base particles and the fine resin particles in a powder passage, thereby forming a film on the surface of the toner base particle.
US08236473B2	Method for manufacturing resin-layer coated toner, resin-layer coated toner, developer, developing apparatus and image forming apparatus A method for manufacturing a resin-layer coated toner is provided. The method for manufacturing the resin-layer coated toner uses a rotary stirring apparatus including a circulating section, a temperature regulation section, a spraying section and an exhausting section, sprays a liquid substance to particles of toner materials and particles of coating materials in a fluidized state to plasticize such particles from a spraying section by carrier gas and gasifies the liquid, circulates the carrier gas in the powder passage and continuously exhausts the carrier gas including the gasified substance through the exhausting section to the outside of the powder passage, and pressure P1 in the powder passage and pressure P0 outside the powder passage satisfy the following formula (1): 0 atm<(Pressure P1 in the powder passage−Pressure P0 outside the powder passage)≦0.3 atm (1).
US08236471B2	Toner for developing electrostatic charge image, developer for developing an electrostatic charge image, toner cartridge, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus A toner for developing an electrostatic charge image, the toner including a binder resin containing a crystalline polyester resin and a noncrystalline polyester resin, a colorant, a releasing agent, a ketone solvent, and an alcoholic solvent, the total concentration of the ketone solvent and the alcoholic solvent in the toner dispersion liquid being less than about 10 ppm when 0.5 g of the toner is dispersed in 2 g of deionized water to form a toner dispersion liquid, and the total concentration of the ketone solvent and the alcoholic solvent in the toner dispersion liquid being from about 2 ppm to about 50 ppm when 0.5 g of the toner is dispersed in 2 g of N,N-dimethylformamide to form a toner dispersion liquid.
US08236469B2	Single layer photoreceptor comprising high mobility transport mixtures The presently disclosed embodiments relate generally to layers that are useful in imaging apparatus members and components, for use in electrophotographic, including digital, apparatuses. In particular, the present embodiments pertain to an improved imaging member comprising a single layer in which the single layer further comprises a combination of one or more high mobility hole (charge) transport molecules and electron transport molecules.
US08236461B2	Type of fuel cell bipolar plates constructed with multiple pass flow channels that contract, expand, deflect and split reactant flows for improving reactant flow distribution, diffusion and water management A type of fuel cell bipolar plates is constructed with multiple splitting and deflecting flow channels through which reactant flows are constantly contracted, expanded, split into more than one flow streams, and deflected in flow directions for improving reactant flow distribution, diffusion and water management.
US08236458B2	High-efficiency dual-stack molten carbonate fuel cell system A dual stack fuel cell system comprising a first fuel cell stack comprising a first anode side, adapted to receive fuel and to output a first anode exhaust, and a first cathode side, a second fuel cell stack comprising a second anode side, adapted to receive processed anode exhaust derived from the first anode exhaust and to output a second anode exhaust, and a second cathode side, adapted to receive oxidant gas and to output a first cathode exhaust, wherein the first cathode side receives at least the first cathode exhaust outputted from the second cathode side; and wherein the first fuel cell stack includes indirect internal reforming and the second fuel cell stack may not include any indirect internal reforming.
US08236454B2	Negative electrode for lithium ion secondary battery and lithium ion secondary battery including the same A negative electrode for a lithium ion secondary battery of the present invention includes a sheet-like current collector and an active material layer carried on the current collector. The current collector includes a substrate and a surface portion that undergoes plastic deformation more easily than the substrate. The surface portion has protrusions and recesses. The active material layer includes a plurality of columnar particles containing silicon. The columnar particles are carried on the surface portion.
US08236452B2	Nano-structured anode compositions for lithium metal and lithium metal-air secondary batteries This invention provides a nano-structured anode composition for a lithium metal cell. The composition comprises: (a) an integrated structure of electrically conductive nanometer-scaled filaments that are interconnected to form a porous network of electron-conducting paths comprising interconnected pores, wherein the nano-filaments have a transverse dimension less than 500 nm; and (b) micron- or nanometer-scaled particles of lithium, a lithium alloy, or a lithium-containing compound wherein at least one of the particles is surface-passivated or stabilized and the weight fraction of these particles is between 1% and 99% based on the total weight of these particles and the integrated structure together. Also provided is a lithium metal cell or battery, or lithium-air cell or battery, comprising such an anode. The battery exhibits an exceptionally high specific capacity, an excellent reversible capacity, and a long cycle life.
US08236451B2	Negative electrode for lithium primary battery and lithium primary battery A lithium primary battery includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, a positive electrode case, a negative electrode case, a gasket, and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The negative electrode includes: lithium or a lithium alloy; a lithium carboxylate layer formed on a surface of the lithium or lithium alloy; and a carbon layer formed on a surface of the lithium carboxylate layer. This configuration allows the lithium primary battery to have suppressed negative electrode polarization during discharge and improved large-current discharge characteristics in a low temperature environment and after high temperature storage.
US08236446B2	High performance batteries with carbon nanomaterials and ionic liquids The present invention is directed to lithium-ion batteries in general and more particularly to lithium-ion batteries based on aligned graphene ribbon anodes, V2O5 graphene ribbon composite cathodes, and ionic liquid electrolytes. The lithium-ion batteries have excellent performance metrics of cell voltages, energy densities, and power densities.
US08236443B2	Metal film encapsulation The present invention relates to metal foil encapsulation of an electrochemical device. The metal foil encapsulation may also provide contact tabs for the electrochemical device. The present invention may also include a selectively conductive bonding layer between a contact and a cell structure.
US08236436B2	Fuel cell system and hydrogen supply unit A fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell which generates electricity using hydrogen and oxygen; a hydrogen storage which stores hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell and which has a supply port connectable to a hydrogen supply unit for supplying hydrogen from outside the fuel cell system; a detector which detects a leakage of the hydrogen from the hydrogen storage; and a connection controller which regulates connection of the hydrogen supply unit to the supply port when the leakage of the hydrogen is detected by the detector.
US08236435B2	Board assembly for rechargeable battery and battery pack using the same A board assembly for a rechargeable battery includes a cover case including a cover plate, and side walls disposed on a circumference of the cover plate and including respective openings that are offset from each other; and a circuit board mounted between the side walls of the cover case.
US08236434B2	Magnetic recording medium, magnetic signal reproduction system and magnetic signal reproduction method The present invention relates to a magnetic recording medium comprising a magnetic layer comprising a hexagonal ferrite powder and a binder on one surface of a nonmagnetic support and a backcoat layer on the other surface of the nonmagnetic support. A power spectrum density at a pitch of 10 micrometers ranges from 800 to 10,000 nm3 on the magnetic layer surface, a power spectrum density at a pitch of 10 micrometers ranges from 20,000 to 80,000 nm3 on the backcoat layer surface, the magnetic layer has a center surface average surface roughness Ra, as measured by an atomic force microscope, ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 nm, and the hexagonal ferrite powder has an average plate diameter ranging from 10 to 40 nm.
US08236433B2	Antireflection structure and manufacturing method thereof An antireflection structure is provided. The antireflection structure includes a substrate layer having a substrate refractive index; a first inorganic layer disposed on the substrate layer and having a first refractive index different from the substrate refractive index, where a thickness of the first inorganic layer is in a range of 1 to 40 nm; and a second inorganic layer disposed on the first inorganic layer and having a second refractive index different from the first refractive index.
US08236431B2	Hollow organic pigment core binder coated paper and paperboard articles and methods for making the same A coating for paperboard comprises an aqueous dispersion of a hollow core binder comprising a first polymer that, when dry, has at least one void, the first polymer being substantially encapsulated by at least one second polymer having a glass transition temperature (Tg) ranging from more than −15° C. and up to and including 30° C., wherein the weight ratio of the said second polymer to the said first polymer ranges from 1:1 to 4:1. One or both of the first polymer and the second polymer may be formed from, as polymerized units, at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer. The hollow core binder allows for glossy, bright and smooth paperboard coatings while reducing the amount of binder and opacifying pigment necessary to achieve such coating properties. The present invention also provides coated paperboard articles, as well as paper and paperboard that is made from a mixture of pulp with the inventive hollow core binder.
US08236430B2	Composite bodies, method for the production thereof and use thereof Composites are described, comprising polyacetal and at least one thermoplastic polyamide elastomer formed by a polyacetal molding which has been partially or completely coated with the thermoplastic polyamide elastomer or onto which one or more moldings composed of the thermoplastic polyamide elastomer have been directly molded. The composites are characterized in that the polyacetal and the thermoplastic polyamide elastomer have been bonded adhesively or cohesively to one another via injection of the polyamide elastomer onto the polyacetal molding, and in that the tensile bond strength between the polyacetal and the thermoplastic polyamide elastomer is at least 0.5 N/mm2. The composites may be used as connectors, as functional components with integrated sealing properties and/or with integrated damping properties, or else as non-slip and easy-grip elements.
US08236428B2	Hybrid silicon wafer and method for manufacturing same Provided is a hybrid silicon wafer comprising a structure in which a single-crystal wafer is embedded in a sintered polysilicon wafer. Also provided is a method for manufacturing a hybrid silicon wafer having a structure in which a single-crystal wafer is embedded in a sintered polysilicon wafer, wherein a part of the sintered polysilicon is hollowed, a single crystal ingot is inserted into the hollowed portion, these are mutually bonded through thermal diffusion bonding based on HIP to prepare a complex of the sintered polysilicon and the single-crystal silicon ingot, and the complex is sliced. Thereby provided are a hybrid silicon wafer comprising functions of both the polysilicon wafer and the single-crystal wafer, and a method for manufacturing such a hybrid silicon wafer.
US08236426B2	Inorganic substrates with hydrophobic surface layers Inorganic substrates with a hydrophobic surface layer of a fluorinated material having the following structure are disclosed: where A is an oxygen radical or a chemical bond; n is 1 to 20; Y is H, F, CnH2n+1 or CnF2n+1; X is H or F; b is at least 1, m is 0 to 50, and p is 1 to 20. The fluorinated material can be directly adhered to the inorganic substrate or can be indirectly adhered to the inorganic substrate through an intermediate organometallic coating.
US08236424B2	Multilayer coating package on flexible substrates for electro-optical devices An electro-optical device having at least one base and a multilayer coating surface disposed on at least one surface of the base. The at least one base may comprise either an optically or electronically active portion or a flexible polymeric material. The multilayer coating set comprises at least one organic layer and at least one inorganic layer. The base and multilayer coating set are transparent. The multilayer coating set provides a barrier to moisture and oxygen and provides chemical resistance. The multilayer coating set is also mechanically flexible and thermally stable up to a glass transition temperature of the base.
US08236421B2	Metallic structure and photodetector In a metallic structure including a metallic nano-chain with plasmon resonance absorption, a metallic nanoparticle forming the metallic nano-chain is formed in a circular, triangle, or rhomboid shape. The wavelength selectivity can be increased also by forming a closed region by mutually linking all of metallic nanoparticles that are mutually linked with bottlenecks. In a photodetector, a photodetection unit including a current detection probe, a nano-chain unit, and a current detection probe is arranged on a substrate. The nano-chain unit is a metallic structure with plasmon resonance absorption, where metallic nanoparticles are mutually linked with bottlenecks. Each current detection probe has a corner whose tip is formed with a predetermined angle, and this corner is arranged to face the tip of the nano-chain unit, i.e., a corner of the metallic nanoparticle. Photodetection with high wavelength selectivity is performed based on a change in the initial voltage of the current-voltage characteristic.
US08236418B2	Methods and systems for fabricating fire retardant materials A fire retardant material is described that includes a polyamide and a brominated hydrocarbon. The brominated hydrocarbon makes up between about two percent and about 25 percent of the fire retardant material.
US08236417B2	Pressure-sensitive adhesive for optical films A pressure-sensitive adhesive contains an acrylic triblock copolymer (I) at not less than 60% by mass based on the total mass of all solids contained in the pressure-sensitive adhesive, the acrylic triblock copolymer being represented by the formula A1-B-A2 wherein: A1 and A2 are each independently an alkyl methacrylate polymer block having Tg of not less than 100° C. and B is an acryl acrylate polymer block having Tg of not more than −20° C.; the content of the polymer block B is 50 to 95% by mass; Mw is in the range of 50,000 to 300,000; and the molecular weight distribution is in the range of 1.0 to 1.5. Preferably, the acrylic triblock copolymer (I) is a combination of an acrylic triblock copolymer (Ia) having Mw of 50,000 to less than 100,000 and an acrylic triblock copolymer (Ib) having Mw of 100,000 to 300,000, in a mass ratio (Ia):(Ib) of 45:55 to 75:25.
US08236412B2	Polyamide graft polymer composition and use thereof in photovoltaic modules The present invention relates to a thermoplastic composition including a polyamide graft polymer including a polyolefin backbone containing a residue of at least one unsaturated monomer having reacted with at least one polyamide graft. The invention also relates to structures, particularly multilayer structures, including said composition. One of the preferred structures of the present invention is a photovoltaic module including said composition. The composition according to the invention can advantageously be used as a binder or encapsulant. It is also used in solar panels and laminated glass.
US08236411B2	Cutting tool An object of embodiments according to the invention is to provide a cutting tool having good wear resistance, good sliding property and good fracture resistance.A cutting tool 1 comprising a substrate 2 and a coating layer 6 or a coating layer 9 which covers a surface of the substrate 2. The coating layer 6 or the coating layer 9 comprising a first layer 7 and a second layer 8. The first layer 7 comprises Ti1-a-b-c-dAlaWbSicMd(C1-xNx) when M is at least one selected from Nb, Mo, Hf and Y, 0.45≦a≦0.55, 0.01≦b≦0.1, 0≦c≦0.05, 0.01≦d≦0.1, 0≦x≦1). The second layer 8 comprises Ti1-e-f-gAleSifM′g(C1-yNy) when M′ is at least one selected from Nb, Mo, Ta, Hf and Y, 0.50≦e≦0.60, 0≦f≦0.1, 0.05≦g≦0.15, 0≦y≦1).
US08236408B2	Method of manufacturing optical laminate To provide an optical laminate that can sufficiently exhibit the function of a functional material such as an antistatic agent or fine particles in the obtained laminate without using a binder material for fixing the functional material to the substrate, as well as a method for manufacturing the same, there is obtained the optical laminate by step (A1) in which the substrate is coated with a composition (a) containing a solvent capable of swelling or dissolving the substrate and the functional material, step (A2) of drying, and step (A3) of forming a resin layer on the coated substrate.
US08236403B2	Multiple face fabric towel A versatile fabric for use as a towel includes multiple surface areas that are formed of different materials. A support web has hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials woven therethrough. The hydrophilic material is interlaced with the web to define loops of material which extend from a first portion of the web surface and loops of material which extend from a second portion of the web surface which is longitudinally spaced from the first portion. Similarly, the hydrophobic material is interlaced with the web to define loops of material which extend from a third portion of the web surface and loops of material which extend from a fourth portion of the web surface which is longitudinally spaced from the third portion. The first and third portions of the support web surface are arranged opposite each other and the second and fourth portions of the support web surface are arranged opposite each other to define four surface portions of the fabric.
US08236399B2	Lighter than air balloon made from a biaxially oriented polyester film A long life balloon formed from a lamination. The lamination includes a polyester film with a total thickness of 4 μm to 12 μm. The polyester film includes a biaxially oriented polyester core layer and at least one amorphous copolyester skin layer. The lamination also includes a sealant layer and a gas barrier layer on an opposite side of the polyester film from the sealant layer. The oxygen transmission rate of the balloon is less than 0.1 cc/100 sqin/day, a bonding strength of the gas barrier layer to the surface of the polyester film is more than 300 g/in at dry conditions, a sealing strength of the balloon is more than 3.5 kg/in, and a floating time of the balloon is more than 20 days.
US08236391B2	Composition for forming alignment film, and method for manufacturing liquid crystal device A composition for forming an alignment film used during formation of an alignment film with a droplet discharge method includes a solute, a first organic solvent and a second organic solvent. The solute includes an alignment film formation material. The first organic solvent dissolves the solute. The second organic solvent is for controlling surface tension. The first organic solvent includes a solvent having a lowest vapor pressure among all of solvent components in the composition.
US08236389B2	Method for making carbon nanotube films A method for making a carbon nanotube film, the method comprising the following steps of: (a) supplying a substrate; (b) forming at least one strip-shaped catalyst film on the substrate, a width of the strip-shaped catalyst films ranging from approximately 1 micrometer to 20 micrometers; (c) growing at least one strip-shaped carbon nanotube array on the substrate using a chemical vapor deposition method; and (d) causing the at least one strip-shaped carbon nanotube array to fold along a direction parallel to a surface of the substrate, thus forming at least one carbon nanotube film.
US08236388B2	Method of producing gas barrier film A method of producing a gas barrier film comprises the steps of: supplying a material gas including silane gas, ammonia gas and at least one of nitrogen gas and hydrogen gas to a process chamber; keeping the process chamber at an internal pressure of 20 to 200 Pa; holding a substrate in the process chamber at a substrate temperature of not more than 70° C.; forming a bias potential of −100 V or less at the substrate; and supplying power P (W) to the material gas so as to have a ratio P/Q of the power P to a silane gas flow rate Q (sccm) of 15 to 30 W/sccm to generate plasma, thereby depositing a silicon nitride layer on a surface of the substrate.
US08236381B2	Metal piperidinate and metal pyridinate precursors for thin film deposition Methods and compositions for depositing a film on one or more substrates include providing a reactor and at least one substrate disposed in the reactor. At least one lanthanide precursor is provided in vapor form and a lanthanide metal thin film layer is deposited onto the substrate.
US08236379B2	Articles with super-hydrophobic and-or super-hydrophilic surfaces and method of formation The present invention is related to a chemical vapor deposition method of depositing layers of materials to provide super-hydrophilic surface properties, or super-hydrophobic surface properties, or combinations of such properties at various locations on a given surface. The invention also relates to electronic applications which make use of super-hydrophobic surface properties, and to biological applications which make use of super-hydrophilic surface properties.
US08236377B2	Method and system for processing frozen adhesive particles Method and system for moving a frozen adhesive particle towards a target body, comprising launching means (13) which are arranged to launch the particle (2) in its frozen form towards the target body (3, 4) via a movement path (14) through a gap (15) between the launching means and the target body. The medium in the gap may have a temperature above the adhesive particle's melting temperature. The launching means may be arranged to launch the particle at a high speed. The launching means and the target body may have a geometry causing that the movement path is substantially vertical or substantially horizontal.
US08236374B2	Method of manufacturing optical waveguide device A method of manufacturing an optical waveguide device is provided which provides the excellent smoothness of a light receiving end surface and a light emitting end surface formed by cutting and which provides excellent productivity. A laminate of a film element (2) and a board (1) is prepared. The film element (2) includes at least one future optical waveguide portion. The board (1) is stacked on the film element (2). The laminate is die-cut from the side of the board (1). This provides an optical waveguide device including the die-cut board (1) and an optical waveguide formed thereon. A cutting die used for the die-cutting includes at least blades (3) for forming the light receiving end surface (20a) and the light emitting end surface (20b) of the optical waveguide. The blades (3) are flat blades including blade surfaces having an arithmetic means roughness (Ra) of less than 0.02 μm.
US08236373B2	Method for controlled ink-jet spreading of polymers for the insulation and/or protection of printed circuits Method for the controlled ink-jet spreading of polymeric material for insulation and/or protection of printed circuits, characterized in that it has at least the following steps: —carrying out at least a first bedding/bordering/border-line contour run of the circuit design, creating a line of outline/bordering design slightly raised from said printed board surface; —carrying out a subsequent filling/covering run of the outlined bordered design.
US08236370B2	Condoms with lubricant compositions and packaging providing enhanced functionality The present disclosure provides improved packaged condoms that enable the use of a large quantity of a composition inside the condom. In addition, a sufficient quantity of certain spermicidal and/or microbicidal compositions is provided for efficient inactivation of sperm and pathogens. The present disclosure also provides condoms with reduced tendency to slip or break. Compositions associated with different surfaces of the condom can be effectively segregated to their intended condom surface according to the present disclosure.
US08236364B2	Rolled sheet of cookie dough Methods and formulations for forming a rolled cookie dough configuration for shipment, display and storage. The rolled configuration can be frozen and/or refrigerated and be subsequently unrolled prior to use. The cookie dough can be formulated so as to unroll into a flat sheet configuration without cracking, breaking and/or sticking together. When unrolled, the flat sheet configuration can be sliced/cut with cookie cutters to create specially shaped cookie units for baking. Excess dough can be trimmed and rerolled for further cutting with a cookie cutter.
US08236363B2	Method for producing instant noodles The present invention provides a method for producing instant noodles having fresh noodle-like texture and flavor and having an excellent reconstitution property even if the noodles are thick. In the present invention, superheated steam flow is directly sprayed to raw noodle strings for 5 to 50 seconds such that a temperature of superheated steam to which surfaces of the noodle strings are exposed becomes 125 to 220° C., the noodle strings are supplied with moisture using water or hot water, the noodle strings are further steamed by directly spraying the superheated steam flow to the noodle strings for 5 to 50 seconds and/or steamed by using non-superheated steam, and the noodle strings are dried to produce the instant noodles.
US08236358B1	Phosphate-binding magnesium salts and uses thereof The present invention provides, among other things, compositions and methods suitable for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia based on phosphate-binding magnesium salts. In some embodiments, the present invention provides compositions and methods suitable for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia based on the combination of phosphate-binding magnesium and an enteric coating.
US08236356B2	Growth medium for Clostridium histolyticum The present invention provides improved media for the cultivation of Clostridium histolyticum and culture supernatants for the biotechnological production of collagenase enzymes. The nutrient media according to the invention comprise one or more peptones from a non-mammalian source, preferably plant-derived peptones. The media can additionally comprise fish gelatin. The invention provides media, culture supernatants comprising Clostridium histolyticum collagenase, and methods to produce said collagenase.
US08236348B2	Long-lasting, flavored dosage forms for sustained release of beneficial agents within the mouth Flavored dosage forms, e.g., lozenges and gums, are provided for sustained release of a flavoring agent in the mouth. The dosage forms provide sustained release by virtue of a wet matrix formed by admixture of a biocompatible, hydrophilic, water-insoluble polymer such as ethylcellulose and a flavoring agent, particularly an essential oil or a constituent thereof, e.g., a terpene or sesquiterpene. The dosage forms may also include a second beneficial agent in addition to the flavoring agent. Exemplary such beneficial agents include ionizable zinc compounds and other cold remedies, local anesthetic and anti-infective agents, diet aids, fluoride-releasing compounds, and nicotine. The dosage forms, when formulated as lozenges, may be somewhat adhesive or substantially nontacky, depending primarily on the molecular weight of the hydrophilic polymer. Adhesive lozenges can serve as dosage forms that adhere to the teeth or gums for delivery of a beneficial agent thereto. Methods for using the dosage forms to provide sustained release of a flavoring agent and optionally deliver a second beneficial agent are also provided, as are methods for treating the common cold, treating a sore throat, facilitating weight loss, and assisting in smoking cessation.
US08236347B2	Pharmaceutical compositions for reducing amyloid deposition, amyloid neurotoxicity, and microgliosis The present invention provides methods for reducing Aβ deposition, Aβ neurotoxicity and microgliosis in an animal or human afflicted with a cerebral amyloidogenic disease, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), by administering therapeutically effective amounts of the (R)-enantiomer of the dihydropyridine compound nilvadipine, also known as (−)-nilvadipine, to the animal or human. Further provided are methods for reducing the risk of Aβ deposition, Aβ neurotoxicity and microgliosis in animals or humans suffering from traumatic brain injury by administering (−)-nilvadipine after the traumatic brain injury and continuing treatment for a prescribed period of time thereafter.
US08236346B2	Method for reducing amyloid deposition, amyloid neurotoxicity, and microgliosis with (-)-nilvadipine enantiomer The present invention provides methods for reducing Aβ deposition, Aβ neurotoxicity and microgliosis in an animal or human afflicted with a cerebral amyloidogenic disease, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), by administering therapeutically effective amounts of the (R)-enantiomer of the dihydropyridine compound nilvadipine, also known as (−)-nilvadipine, to the animal or human. Further provided are methods for reducing the risk of Aβ deposition, Aβ neurotoxicity and microgliosis in animals or humans suffering from traumatic brain injury by administering (−)-nilvadipine after the traumatic brain injury and continuing treatment for a prescribed period of time thereafter.
US08236343B2	Method and apparatus for in situ drug delivery during distraction osteogenesis A device and technique for the performance of distraction osteogenesis of bone with controlled drug delivery using a bead chain consisting of two bands and a series of drug delivery capsules placed in a precise manner such that the relative motion of the bone segments brings the wires, pins, or screws into contact with the capsules and divides them. This action sequentially delivers the drug to the distraction zone throughout the distraction osteogenesis process.
US08236341B2	Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) polymer with nitric oxide donating surface Described herein are nitric oxide (NO)-donating poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) polymers and polymer surfaces and methods of making and using the same. The NO-donating PTFE polymers can be used to fabricate at least a portion of an implantable medical device, coat at least a portion of an implantable medical device or form at least a portion of an implantable medical device. The NO-donating PTFE polymers provide controlled release of NO once implanted at or within the target site.
US08236340B2	Drug formulations for coating medical devices The present invention relates to oil-based formulations of hydrophobic drugs for the uniform coating of medical devices such as vascular stents and balloons. Another aspect of the present invention is an intravascular medical device having an oil-based coating suitable for delivering a water-insoluble drug, comprising one or more of an anti-oxidant, an anti-inflammatory and an anti-restenotic agent.
US08236338B2	Adhesive composition for carrying therapeutic agents as delivery vehicle on coatings applied to vascular grafts Water-soluble polymeric adhesive compositions and their use as delivery vehicles for carrying therapeutic agents on implantable devices, such as vascular grafts, are disclosed. Use of drug-coated vascular grafts is demonstrated for delivery of the therapeutic agents in vivo, thereby inhibiting restenosis or neointimal hyperplasia of the vascular graft and inhibiting infection at the vascular graft site. Methods of forming the adhesive and making the coated vascular grafts are also disclosed.
US08236335B2	Antimicrobial nanoemulsion compositions and methods The present invention relates to compositions and methods for decreasing the infectivity, morbidity, and rate of mortality associated with a variety of pathogenic organisms and viruses. The present invention also relates to methods and compositions for decontaminating areas colonized or otherwise infected by pathogenic organisms and viruses. Moreover, the present invention relates to methods and compositions for decreasing the infectivity of pathogenic organisms in foodstuffs.
US08236334B2	Composition and method for killing insects Disclosed is a method for protecting a tree from insects by injecting the tree with a fungicide and/or an antibiotic, and applying a composition to the surface of the tree, said composition comprising water, an insect repellent, an antihistamine, and an insect poison.
US08236332B2	Particle stabilised emulsion composition The present invention relates to emulsifier system comprising food-grade gelled particles and the preparation of particle stabilised emulsions with this emulsifier. The emulsifier system can be used in any fields of applications, such as food products, home and personal care applications and pharmaceutical applications.
US08236329B2	Micelle encapsulation of therapeutic agents The invention provides active agents, such as paclitaxel, rapamycin, or 17-AAG, encapsulated by safe poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(lactic acid) (“PEG-b-PLA”) micelles. The compositions provide effective solubilization of drug combinations, such as paclitaxel, rapamycin, and 17-AAG, as well as others described herein. A significant advantage of PEG-b-PLA as a carrier is that it is less toxic than Cremophor® EL or DMSO, which are used in currently known compositions. Additionally, PEG-b-PLA micelles are easier to handle than DMSO and they do not possess a foul odor, which is a problem with formulations currently in clinical trials. Accordingly, the invention provides stable and biocompatible drug formulations that improve bioavailabilty without causing toxicity. It was also found that larger doses of individual drugs in micelle formulations can be administered compared to non-micelle formulations.
US08236328B2	Pharmaceutical compositions of dispersions of amorphous drugs mixed with polymers A pharmaceutical composition comprises a dispersion comprising a low-solubility drug and a matrix combined with a concentration-enhancing polymer. At least a major portion of the drug is amorphous in the dispersion. The compositions improve the stability of the drug in the dispersion, and/or the concentration of drug in a use environment.
US08236323B2	Method to treat inflammation The present invention relates generally to the fields of pharmacology, and particularly to a method for treating inflammation, particularly inflammation of the respiratory system. The invention provides a method to reduce or ameliorate inflammation, by administering an effective amount of a protein factor originally isolated from thymic tissue, and referred to as T4 immune stimulating factor (TISF).
US08236319B2	Cross-linkers and their uses Charged or pro-charged cross-linking moieties and conjugates of cell binding agents and drugs comprising the charged or pro-charged cross-linking moieties and method of making the same.
US08236315B2	Humanized antibodies specific for von Willebrand factor The present disclosure relates to humanized antibodies or binding fragments thereof specific for human von Willebrand factor (vWF), methods for their preparation and use, including methods for treating vWF mediated diseases or disorders.
US08236312B2	VEGF-specific human antibody The present invention relates to a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-specific human antibody, and more particularly to a human antibody including a complementarity determining region (CDR) and a framework region (FR) derived from a human antibody specifically bound to VEGF. The VEGF-specific human antibody of the present invention may be used in diagnosis of diseases caused by the VEGF-overexpression, classification of the diseases, visualization, treatment, and prognostic evaluation.
US08236311B2	Antibodies against clostridium difficile toxins and uses thereof Antibodies that specifically bind to toxins of C. difficile, antigen binding portions thereof, and methods of making and using the antibodies and antigen binding portions thereof are provided herein.
US08236304B2	Use of PD-L3 proteins and PD-L3 specific antibodies or antibody fragments to regulate CD4+ and CD8+ T cell immunity The present invention relates to novel regulatory T cell proteins. One protein, designated PD-L3, resembles members of the PD-L1 family, and co-stimulates αCD3 proliferation of T cells in vitro. A second, TNF-like, protein has also been identified as being upregulated upon αCD3/αGITR stimulation. This protein has been designated Treg-sTNF. Proteins, antibodies, activated T cells and methods for using the same are disclosed.
US08236301B2	Lumican proteoglycan in the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis The invention relates to methods of reducing formation of atheromas and methods of treating atherosclerotic lesions and/or atherosclerosis by reducing the amount of lumican proteglycan in the intima or an artery or in the lesion. The invention also relates to methods of identifying subjects having or at risk of having atherosclerosis comprising detecting an increased amount of lumican proteoglycan in a subject.
US08236299B2	Transplantation of human neural cells for treatment of neurodegenerative conditions A method of treating neurodegenerative conditions is provided. Neural stem cells may be implanted at and/or remote from a region of neuron degeneration. The methods can include isolating neural stem cells from regions where specific types of neurons corresponding to the neurons to be replaced are generated. The methods can include isolating neural stem cells secreting growth factors affecting the growth and/or regeneration of specific types of neuron. In this invention, we disclose a method of treating such disorders, including several neurodegenerative disorders arising from the lack of cells that produce particular neurotransmitters in neural circuitry by transplanting exogenously cultured and expanded neural progenitors which, upon transplantation into a neural tissue, differentiate into neurons capable of integrating and producing neurotransmitters in sufficient quantities and in a sufficient manner to overcome the symptoms associated with the neurodegeneration.
US08236298B2	Methods and compositions for treatment of hematologic cancers The present invention relates to oncolytic Picornaviruses and methods and compositions for treating subjects having hematologic cancers. These include methods and compositions for treatment of myeloma, using disclosed Picornavirus such as Coxsackievirus, in methods of direct or indirect administration to subjects and ex vivo purging of malignant cells within auto grafts prior to transplantation.
US08236296B2	Biological bypass bridge with sodium channels, calcium channels and/or potassium channels to compensate for conduction block in the heart This invention provides a bypass bridge comprising a tract of gap junction-coupled cells having a first end and a second end, both ends capable of being attached to two selected sites in a heart so as to allow the conduction of a pacemaker and/or electrical signal/current across the tract between the two sites, wherein the cells functionally express a sodium channel. The invention also provides related methods of making the bypass bridge, methods of implanting same in a heart, and methods of treating a disorder associated with an impaired conduction in a subject's heart.
US08236295B1	Composition comprising an adenoviral expression vector comprising a CD40L fusion protein for generating immune responses Provided are adenoviral vectors for generating an immune response to antigen. The vectors comprise a transcription unit encoding a secretable polypeptide, the polypeptide comprising a secretory signal sequence upstream of a tumor antigen upstream of CD40 ligand, which is missing all or substantially all of the transmembrane domain rendering CD40L secretable. Also provided are methods of generating an immune response against cells expressing a tumor antigen by administering an effective amount of the invention vector. Further provided are methods of generating an immune response against cancer expressing a tumor antigen in an individual by administering an effective amount of the invention vector. Still further provided are methods of generating immunity to infection by human papilloma virus (HPV) by administering an effective amount of the invention vector which encodes the E6 or E7 protein of HPV. The immunity generated is long term.
US08236292B2	Liquid depot formulations The present invention relates to pre-formulations comprising low viscosity, non-liquid crystalline, mixtures of: a) at least one neutral diacyl lipid and/or at least one tocopherol; b) at least one phospholipid; c) at least one biocompatible, oxygen containing, low viscosity organic solvent; wherein at least one bioactive agent is dissolved or dispersed in the low viscosity mixture and wherein the pre-formulation forms, or is capable of forming, at least one liquid crystalline phase structure upon contact with an aqueous fluid. The preformulations are suitable for generating parenteral, non-parenteral and topical depot compositions for sustained release of active agents. The invention additionally relates to a method of delivery of an active agent comprising administration of a preformulation of the invention, a method of treatment comprising administration of a preformulation of the invention and the use of a preformulation of the invention in a method for the manufacture of a medicament.
US08236290B2	Hair care compositions comprising a dendritic polymer A method of treating hair comprising the step of applying to the hair a composition comprising a hydrophobically functionalized polyhydric dendritic macromolecule built up from polyester or polyether units or mixtures thereof. The method has been found to be useful in providing hair that is well aligned.
US08236289B2	Lip gloss Embodiments of inventive subject matter described herein include a lip gloss comprising: a sugar gel matrix that includes stearoyl inulin and an ester or ether of formula R(1) COOR(2) in which R(1) is a residue of a fatty acid including from 6 to 29 carbon atoms and R(2) is a hydrocarbon-comprising chain comprising from 3 to 30 carbon atoms, entrapped in the stearoyl inulin sugar gel matrix; a gel comprising hydrogenated polyisobutene; and a gel comprising fumed silica dimethyl silicate in C(15-19) Hydrocarbon.
US08236287B2	Sunscreen compositions Sunscreen compositions containing a discontinuous oil phase dispersed in a continuous water phase, at least 10% by weight of an organic UV-filter, a water-insoluble, C2-C8, liquid silicone, a branched fatty acid ester of a polyprotic carboxylic acid; and at least 2% by weight of a mineral particulate having a starch coating applied to the surface thereof.
US08236286B2	Liquid compositions for the oral cavity The present invention relates to a liquid composition for the oral cavity, which contains the following components (A), (B), (C) and (D): (A) an oil-soluble flavor, (B) a cationic bactericide, (C) a sugar fatty acid ester, and (D) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of polyglycerol fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oils, and sorbitan fatty acid esters. The present invention also pertains to a liquid composition for the oral cavity, which contains the following components (A), (B), (E) and (F): (A) an oil-soluble flavor, (B) a cationic bactericide, (E) a polyphosphoric acid or salt thereof, and (F) a polyglycerol fatty acid ester. The liquid composition for the oral cavity according to the present invention is excellent in the adsorption of the bactericide to teeth and the like, barely causes unpleasant odor, and is excellent in stability.
US08236278B2	Mono-dispersive spherical indium oxide-based particles and method for producing the same An indium oxide-based particle is provided. The indium oxide-based particle has a mono-dispersive and spherical non-crystalline structure (spherical morphology with amorphous phase). The diameter of particle is ranged between 0.10 μm and 0.70 μm, and the content of an indium oxide is ranged between 10.0 percent by mass and 99.9 percent by mass. The indium oxide-based particle is generated by the precursor with indium ion reacting with alpha hydroxyl acid in an aqueous solution with alkali-modifier additive at a constant temperature. The indium-oxide based particle can be further calcinated as a crystalline indium oxide particle.
US08236276B2	System and method for sulfur recovery A sulfur recovery system for recovering sulfur from a sulfur plant feed stream including a first sulfur removal system and a second sulfur removal system. The system includes a sulfur plant feed inlet to the first sulfur removal system, the sulfur plant feed inlet being capable of providing a sulfur plant feed stream at a first pressure. One or more oxidizing gas inlets are arranged and disposed to combine at least one oxidizing gas stream with the sulfur plant feed stream to form a combustion gas for combustion in the first sulfur removal system at a second pressure. A flow restriction device is operably configured to control an operating pressure in one or both of the first sulfur removal system and the second sulfur removal system. A gas processing plant and method for recovering sulfur from a sulfur plant feed stream are also disclosed.
US08236275B2	Process for producing carbon material and alkali activation apparatus Provided is a production process for a carbon material comprising an alkali activation reaction step in which a carbon precursor containing an activator selected from alkali metal compounds is heated under flow of inert gas. The above alkali activation reaction is carried out while allowing carbon dioxide gas to flow into a downstream part of an alkali activation reaction region on the condition that the carbon dioxide gas is not substantially brought into contact with the carbon precursor and the activator. This makes it possible to carry out alkali activation treatment safely and stably and obtain a carbon material useful for producing an electric double layer capacitor electrode having a high electrostatic capacity.
US08236272B2	Combination catalysts based on iron for the substantial synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotubes by chemical vapor deposition Methods and systems of preparing a catalyst to be used in the synthesis of carbon nanotubes through Chemical Vapor Depositions are disclosed. The method may include a mixture comprising at least one of an iron catalyst source and a catalyst support. In another aspect, a method of synthesizing multi-walled carbon nanotubes using the catalyst is disclosed. The method may include driving a reaction in a CVD furnace and generating at least one multi-walled carbon nanotube through the reaction. The method also includes depositing the catalyst on the CVD furnace and driving a carbon source with a carrier gas to the CVD furnace. The method further includes decomposing the carbon source in the presence of the catalyst under a sufficient gas pressure for a sufficient time to grow at least one multi-walled carbon nanotube.
US08236270B2	Process to produce carbon nanotubes from carbon rich wastes We disclose a process to produce carbon nanotubes from microalgae. Microalgae is been utilized for biodiesel production. The algal membrane resulted from oil extraction of microalgae is used here to produce carbon nanotubes. The process utilized for the conversion is composed of two steps, in the first step the algal membrane is converted to carbon black through a pyrolysis process in inert atmosphere, in the second step the resulted carbon black is converted to carbon nanotubes by mixing the carbon black with a fluid with known self ignition condition and subjecting the mix to said self ignition condition.
US08236268B2	Process for producing sodium hydrogencarbonate crystal particles having low caking property A process for producing sodium hydrogencarbonate crystal particles having a low caking property, which entails subjecting sodium hydrogencarbonate crystal particles having an average particle size of from 50 to 500 μm based on the mass to heat treatment at a temperature of from 70 to 95° C. by a heating gas having a carbon dioxide gas concentration of at most the concentration calculated by the formula: Carbon dioxide gas concentration=0.071×e(0.1×T)×R(−0.0005×T−0.9574), where T (° C.) is the temperature of sodium hydrogencarbonate crystals, and R (%) is the relative humidity around the crystals at the temperature of the crystals, provided that the upper limit of the carbon dioxide gas concentration is 100 vol % to form anhydrous sodium carbonate on the surface of the sodium hydrogencarbonate crystal particles with a content of anhydrous sodium carbonate of from 0.03 to 0.4 mass % in the sodium hydrogencarbonate crystals.
US08236265B2	Method for purifying metallurgical silicon for solar cells The present invention provides a method for forming high quality silicon material, e.g., polysilicon. The method includes transferring a raw silicon material in a crucible having an interior region. The crucible is made of a quartz or other suitable material, which is capable of withstanding a temperature of at least 1400 Degrees Celsius. The method includes subjecting the raw silicon material in the crucible to thermal energy to cause the raw silicon material to be melted into a liquid state to form a melted material at a temperature of less than about 1400 Degrees Celsius. Preferably, the melted material has an exposed region bounded by the interior region of the crucible. The method also includes subjecting an exposed inner region of the melted material to an energy source comprising an arc heater configured above the exposed region and spaced by a gap between the exposed region and a muzzle region of the arc heater to cause formation of determined temperature profile within a vicinity of an inner region of the exposed melted material while maintaining outer regions of the melted material at a temperature below a melting point of the quartz material of the crucible. Preferably, the method removes one or more impurities from the melted material to form a higher purity silicon material in the crucible.
US08236262B2	Desulfurization materials A particulate desulfurization material includes one or more nickel compounds, a zinc oxide support material, and one or more alkali metal compounds wherein the nickel content of the material is in the range 0.3 to 10% by weight and the alkali metal content of the material is in the range 0.2 to 10% by weight. A method of making the desulfurization material includes the steps: (i) contacting a nickel compound with a particulate zinc support material and an alkali metal compound to form an alkali-doped composition, (ii) shaping the alkali-doped composition, and (iii) drying, calcining, and optionally reducing the resulting material. The desulfurization material may be used to desulfurize hydrocarbon gas streams with reduced levels of hydrocarbon hydrogenolysis.
US08236259B2	Self-assembled, micropatterned, and radio frequency (RF) shielded biocontainers The present invention relates to a nanoscale or microscale container for encapsulation and delivery of materials or substances, including, but not limited to, cells, drugs, tissue, gels and polymers contained within the container, with subsequent release of the therapeutic materials in situ, methods of fabricating the container by folding a 2D precursor into the 3D container, and the use of the container in in-vivo or in-vitro applications. The container can be in any polyhedral shape and its surfaces can have either no perforations or nano/microscale perforations. The container is coated with a biocompatible metal, e.g. gold, or polymer, e.g. parylene, layer and the surfaces and hinges of the container are made of any metal or polymer combinations.
US08236253B2	Portable sterilizing apparatus for surgical and dental instruments A portable steam sterilizer for surgical instruments includes a tray configured to hold the instruments and a pressure chamber. The pressure chamber includes a cavity portion and a handle portion. The cavity portion includes a set of walls and is configured to releasably receive the tray, while the handle portion is coupled to the tray for selectively inserting and removing the tray respectively into and from within the cavity portion. The handle portion is sealingly engageable with the cavity portion to thereby define the pressure chamber. A steam inlet fluidly communicates the pressure chamber with a source of steam to selectively permit steam to flow from the source of steam and into the pressure chamber. A steam outlet fluidly communicates the pressure chamber with a steam management assembly to selectively permit steam to flow from the pressure chamber and into the steam management assembly.
US08236251B2	Nanoparticle-dispersed high-performance liquid fluid, production method and apparatus for the fluid, and leak detection method for the fluid Suppression or enhancement of various properties of a liquid fluid is aimed by improving uniform dispersion of nanoparticles by means of making a state in which no oxidized film exists on the surfaces of the nanoparticles to be dispersed in the liquid fluid. The location of the liquid fluid is confirmed with ease by enhancing the brightness of light emission of the fluid through uniform dispersion of the nanoparticles in the liquid fluid containing a material having a flame reaction. In this way, as to liquid fluids utilized in various industries, it is possible to offer a technology to desirably enhance or suppress a property desired to be enhanced and a property desired to be suppressed among various properties that its constituents have.
US08236247B2	Material withdrawal apparatus and methods of regulating material inventory in one or more units Material withdrawal apparatus, methods, and systems of regulating material inventory in one or more units are provided. A material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger and transport medium junction configured to provide transport medium to transport the withdrawn material from the unit to the heat exchanger. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger and shock coolant junction configured to provide shock coolant to the material withdrawn from the unit. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger, shock coolant junction, and transport medium junction. Another embodiment of a material withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel and shock coolant junction. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel and transport medium junction. The vessel includes a wall, liner with heat insulating refractory material, fill port, and a discharge port. Other embodiments provide methods of withdrawing or regulating material in a unit and systems coupled to a material withdrawal apparatus.
US08236245B2	Micro-pixelated fluid-assay precursor structure A pixel-by-pixel, digitally-addressable, pixelated, precursor, fluid-assay, active-matrix micro-structure including plural pixels formed preferably on a glass or plastic substrate, wherein each pixel, formed utilizing low-temperature TFT and Si technology, includes (a) at least one non-functionalized, digitally-addressable assay sensor, and (b), disposed operatively adjacent this sensor, digitally-addressable and energizable electromagnetic field-creating structure which is selectively energizable to create, in the vicinity of the at least one assay sensor, an ambient electromagnetic field environment which is structured to assist in functionalizing, as a possession on said at least one assay sensor, at least one digitally-addressable assay site which will display an affinity for a selected fluid-assay material.
US08236243B2	Nano-getter device A nano-structured device for detecting biological analytes, chemical, analytes, cancer and other physiological conditions, includes a carrier substrate, a transducer film disposed over a surface of the carrier substrate, and a dendrimer structure tethered to the transducer film. The transducer film generates a first signal in response to a mechanical stress applied thereto. The first signal indicates the detection of the biological analyte, chemical analyte, cancer or other physiological condition. The dendrimer structure includes a plurality of receptors for binding the biological analyte, the chemical analyte, or one or more biomarkers indicative of cancer or other physiological conditions to the dendrimer structure. The dendrimer structure applies the mechanical stress to the transducer film, which is proportional to the strain induced into the dendrimer by the biological analyte, the chemical analyte, or one or more biomarkers indicative of cancer or other physiological condition binding to the receptors, the mechanical stress causing the transducer film to generate the first signal indicating the detection of the biological analyte, the chemical analyte, or one or more biomarkers indicative of cancer or other physiological condition.
US08236242B2	Blood glucose tracking apparatus and methods A measurement module for glucose testing includes a glucose testing measurement module housing, a test strip receptacle formed in the housing, and a connector portion formed in the housing and shaped to permit mechanical removable attachment of the housing to a hand-held computer. Electronics determine the amount of glucose present in a sample of body fluid, when the test strip is positioned in the receptacle and the body fluid is placed on a test strip, and communicate the glucose amount to the hand-held computer via the connector portion.
US08236238B2	Drug deactivation system A drug deactivation system according to some embodiments includes at least one drug-retaining region of a drug delivery device and at least one energy source coupled to the at least one drug-retaining region. The at least one drug-retaining region may be configured to retain a drug. The at least one energy source may be configured to transmit energy to the drug. The drug is capable of being rendered ineffective in the presence of the transmitted energy.
US08236230B2	Method of producing a cementitious sheet-form material having a high level of glass aggregate and a solid surface A method of producing a sheet-form material having an exposed solid surface comprises pre-mixing cement with at least one pozzolan to provide a cement/pozzolan mixture with a high pozzolan to cement ratio, adding to the cement/pozzolan mixture an aqueous solution comprised of water and a high range water reducer to produce a cement/pozzolan dough-like substance, adding and mixing a sufficient quantity of glass aggregate to said cement/pozzolan dough-like substance to produce a moldable composition, wherein, after adding and mixing in the glass aggregate, the pozzolan is present in the composition at about 5% to about 20% by weight, the cement is present in the composition at about 3% to about 20% by weight, and the aggregate glass is by weight a relatively high percentage of the composition. The moldable composition is placed into a mold and vibrated, and is allowed to cure.
US08236229B2	Mold for development blade and method of producing development blade A mold 30 for use in producing a development blade 1, which is to be formed by adhering an elastic member to an elongated-shaped hard plate 2 along the longitudinal direction LD thereof, wherein the hard plate has notched portions on both side portions in the longitudinal direction thereof and the elastic member is molded to skip the notched portions, comprises: a cavity portion CA having a shape in accordance with the shape of the elastic member; and a gate portion 35 for injecting a material into the cavity portion CA, wherein the gate portion 35 is positioned, in the longitudinal direction LD, either on a border CL between each notched portion and the center portion side of a main body of the cavity portion or on the outer side of the border or within 10 mm on the inner side of the border. Since the gate portion 35 of the cavity CA is optimally positioned in the mold, the cavity is reliably filled with a material in a case where a small-diameter portion corresponding to the notched portion exists in the cavity, whereby a development blade can be produced with suppressing short shot and generation of flash.
US08236228B2	Apparatus and method for loading a tread press An apparatus and method for loading a tread press are provided. More specifically, the present invention provides for loading a tread band onto a tread press while suspending the tread band above the mold elements as the tread band is moved into the proper longitudinal position within the tread press. Lateral positioning can also be provided using the present invention.
US08236227B2	Method for building three-dimensional models in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems using tracked filaments A consumable material for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the consumable material comprising a topographical surface pattern that is configured to engage with a drive mechanism of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system.
US08236222B2	Composite spar drape forming machine A machine and a method for forming composite materials are provided. The machine includes a frame and at least one forming beam attached to the frame, the at least one beam being arranged to align with a mandrel. The forming beam is pivotally segmented into at least two segments to conform to the shape of the mandrel, or alternately is bendable to conform to the shape of the mandrel. The mandrel is receivable within the frame in alignment with the forming beam. An apparatus is also provided to position a composite charge over the mandrel, and to position the mandrel within the frame. A further apparatus is provided to transport the mandrel, and to urge the mandrel toward the forming beam, forming a composite charge.
US08236215B2	Process and apparatus for continuously producing an elastomeric composition A process for continuously producing an elastomeric composition includes metering and feeding at least one elastomer and at least one filler into at least one extruder, mixing and dispersing the at least one filler into the at least one elastomer using the at least one extruder, and passing the composition that results through at least one static mixer. An apparatus for continuously producing the composition includes at least one twin-screw extruder, at least one metering device, and at least one static mixer. The at least one extruder includes a housing and two screws rotatably mounted in the housing. The housing includes at least one feed opening and a discharge opening. The at least one metering device meters and feeds at least one elastomer and at least one filler into the at least one extruder. The composition discharged from the discharge opening passes through the at least one static mixer.
US08236214B2	Wet shaving system including a mineral oil coated shaving aid A wet shaving system is disclosed including a blade member and a skin-engaging portion in proximity to said blade member, the skin-engaging portion comprising a solid polymeric shaving aid composite including an exposed portion containing a water-soluble shaving aid dispersed in a water-insoluble polymeric matrix, the water soluble shaving aid being coated with mineral oil.
US08236213B2	Process for producing perfluoropolymer, production apparatus and process for producing electrolyte membrane for polymer electrolyte fuel cells A process for producing a perfluoropolymer, the process including extruding a polymer obtained by polymerizing a perfluoromonomer to prepare strands, and bringing a gas comprising from 3 to 50 volume % of fluorine gas into contact with the strands; the process being conducted on an apparatus that includes an extruder for melting and extruding the polymer obtained by polymerizing a perfluoromonomer, a die having a plurality of pores for preparing the strands from the molten polymer extruded, and a fluorination tank for bringing the gas comprising from 3 to 50 volume % of fluorine gas into contact with the strands.
US08236211B1	Preparation of asymmetric porous materials A method for preparing an asymmetric porous material by depositing a porous material film on a flexible substrate, and applying an anisotropic stress to the porous media on the flexible substrate, where the anisotropic stress results from a stress such as an applied mechanical force, a thermal gradient, and an applied voltage, to form an asymmetric porous material.
US08236207B2	Non-aqueous liquid compositions comprising ion exchange polymers reference to related application Compositions, and methods of making thereof, comprising from about 1% to about 5% of a perfluorinated sulfonic acid ionomer or a hydrocarbon-based ionomer; and from about 95% to about 99% of a solvent, said solvent consisting essentially of a polyol; wherein said composition is substantially free of water and wherein said ionomer is uniformly dispersed in said solvent.
US08236200B2	Nano-composite IR window and method for making same A transparent, nano-composite material and methods for making structures from this material are provided. In one embodiment, the material is made from a polycrystalline matrix containing dispersed particles of a harder material. The particles are less then about 100 nm. In other embodiments, methods for making structures from the material are provided. In one aspect, the methods include blending precursor powders for the matrix and reinforcing phases prior to forming and sintering to make a final structure. In other aspects, a precursor powder for the matrix is pressed into a green shape, which is partially sintered and exposed to a solution containing a precursor for the reinforcing phase, prior to be sintered into the final material. In another aspect, the precursor powder for the matrix is coated with a sol-gel precursor for the reinforcing material, then pressed into a green shape and sintered to form the final structure.
US08236196B1	Systems and methods for facilitating hydrogen storage using naturally occurring nanostructure assemblies Some or all of the needs above can be addressed by embodiments of the invention. According to embodiments of the invention, systems and methods for facilitating hydrogen storage using naturally occurring nanostructure assemblies can be implemented. In one embodiment, a method for storing hydrogen can be provided. The method can include providing diatoms comprising diatomaceous earth or diatoms from a predefined culture. In addition, the method can include heating the diatoms in a sealed environment in the presence of at least one of titanium, a transition metal, or a noble metal to provide a porous hydrogen storage medium. Furthermore, the method can include exposing the porous hydrogen storage medium to hydrogen. In addition, the method can include storing at least a portion of the hydrogen in the porous hydrogen storage medium.
US08236194B1	Refrigerating fluid compositions comprising estolide compounds Provided herein are compositions comprising at least one estolide compound of formula: in which n is an integer equal to or greater than 0; m is an integer equal to or greater than 1; R1, independently for each occurrence, is selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; R2 is selected from hydrogen and optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; and R3 and R4, independently for each occurrence, are selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched. Also provided are uses of the compositions described herein.
US08236193B2	Working medium for heat cycle A working medium for heat cycle has less impact on the environment and is excellent in heat cycle characteristics for a Rankine cycle system, a heat pump cycle system, and a refrigerating cycle system. The working medium has the formula CnF2n+1—CmH2m+1, wherein n is an integer of from 2 to 8, an m is an integer of from 0 to 3.
US08236191B2	Electrical double layer capacitor The present invention provides an electrical double layer capacity comprising a non-aqueous electrolytic solution comprising (A) a solvent comprising a specific fluorine-containing cyclic carbonate and (B) an electrolyte salt comprising a cyclic quaternary onium salt comprising cyclic quaternary onium cation and PF6−, (CF3SO2)2N− or (C2F5SO2)2N−, and (C) a polarizable electrode, and having high withstanding voltage and assuring excellent solubility in a wide range of solvents for dissolving an electrolyte salt.
US08236190B2	Recast removal method A method of removing recast from a substrate is disclosed. The method includes chemically removing the recast using an etchant, which provides a visual indication of the presence of the recast when the part has been removed from the etchant. One example chemical etchant is comprised of a sulfuric acid solution that includes sodium chloride, sodium fluoride and ammonium persulfate. After chemical removal of the recast from the substrate, the recast is physically removed from the substrate, for example, by media blasting. The chemical and physical recast removal process can be repeated as desired. To ensure that all the recast has been removed, the substrate is wiped, for example, using a cloth. If all the recast has been removed, the cloth will not change in appearance or color.
US08236189B2	Method for etching copper and recovery of the spent etching solution An etching and recovery method is described, wherein articles made of copper are etched with an acid aqueous solution of etching chemicals containing Cu2+ for oxidizing Cu0 to Cu+, chloride ions, oxidizing agent which oxidizes Cu+ to Cu2+, and pH-adjusting hydrochloric acid. The technical problem to be solved is to make it possible to circulate the etching solution between the etching process and the recovery process during the recovery of used etching solution in such a manner that a closed circuit can be maintained between the processes. This is effected in that a regenerated etching solution containing a lower quantity of Cu2+ than the used etching solution is produced and in that the recovery process has an extraction step in which removed etching solution is mixed with an organic extraction solution of a complexing compound with which Cu2+ forms a copper complex which can be extracted in the organic extraction solution, after which the two mixed liquids are separated once again in order to obtain an organic extraction solution containing said copper complex, and regenerated etching solution. The method is carried out with an etching solution having a pH above 1.5 and a high copper content.
US08236186B2	Production method of suspension board with circuit A production method of a suspension board with circuit includes the steps of forming, on a metal supporting board, an insulating layer formed with a first opening, forming a metal thin film on the insulating layer and on the metal supporting board exposed from the first opening, forming, on a surface of the metal thin film, a conductive layer having terminal portions forming, on the terminal portions, a metal plating layer by electrolytic plating using the metal supporting board as a lead, forming a second opening in a portion of the metal supporting board opposing the first opening, and partially etching the metal supporting board to form the suspension board with circuit and a support frame. In the step of forming the insulating layer, the first opening is formed in the insulating layer in which the supporting frame is formed.
US08236184B2	Method for separating a composite liquid into at least two components A method related to using a squeezing or transfer fluid to transfer fluid or components between bags in a centrifuge wherein the squeezing fluid can be reversed to reduce squeezing and such fluid an also be used to build up a over-pressure for rapid movement.
US08236181B2	Purification of water from cooling towers and other heat exchange systems The amount of silica in cooling tower water is reduced by passing cooling tower water through a column of silica gel.
US08236175B2	Liquid chromatograph system A channel-switching valve into which a high-pressure liquid and a low-pressure liquid flow is provided. The channel-switching valve includes a stator and a rotor which has a surface in contact with one surface of the stator and rotates while sliding on the contact surface. The stator has a plurality of liquid flow ports open to the contact surface, and the rotor has a plurality of channel grooves for connecting the liquid flow ports. One of the channel grooves is a straight groove passing through the rotational center of the rotor, and the other channel grooves are line-symmetrically arranged with respect to the straight channel groove. Alternatively, among the channel grooves, the channel grooves into which the high-pressure liquid flows are configured to be located on both sides of the rotational center of the rotor. As a result, a local load acting on the rotor during a high-pressure liquid-feeding process is reduced, so that the contact surface is prevented from being scraped off by the edge of the opening of a port during the rotation of the rotor.
US08236170B2	Reactor for use in upgrading heavy oil The instant invention relates to an upflow for upgrading heavy oil feed stock and a method for upgrading heavy oil feed stock employing an upflow reactor and with a slurry catalyst. In one embodiment, the upflow reactor is a liquid recirculating reactor, which is operated in manner corresponding to a dispersed bubble flow regime, which requires a high liquid to gas ratio. A dispersed bubble flow regime results in more even flow patterns, increasing the amount of liquid, i.e., heavy oil feed stock that can be upgraded in a single reactor.
US08236169B2	Systems and methods for producing a crude product A process for hydroprocessing heavy oil feedstock is disclosed. The process operates in once-through mode, employing a plurality of contacting zones and at least a separation zone to convert at least a portion of the heavy oil feedstock to lower boiling hydrocarbons, forming upgraded products. The contacting zones operate under hydrocracking conditions, employing a slurry catalyst for upgrading the heavy oil feedstock. At least an additive material selected from inhibitor additives, anti-foam agents, stabilizers, metal scavengers, metal contaminant removers, metal passivators, and sacrificial materials, in an amount of less than 1 wt. % of the heavy oil feedstock, is added to at least one of the contacting zones. In one embodiment, the additive material is an anti-foam agent. In another embodiment, the additive material is a sacrificial material for trapping heavy metals in the heavy oil feed and/or deposited coke, thus prolonging the life of the slurry catalyst.
US08236168B2	Onset haze measurement apparatus and procedure An apparatus and method for determining at least one of the temperatures at which a petroleum product will manifest delayed haze and the temperature at which haze will not exist in the product is provided. The apparatus comprises a container for holding a sample of the product, a light source, light detector, heaters and coolers combined with microprocessor means for storing and analyzing at least one of light transmitted or scattered by the sample. Measurements are useful in determining the haze properties of the product and also for controlling a dehazing process to meet target haze properties.
US08236165B2	Method for operating measuring meter and measuring meter A method for operating a measuring meter for an electrochemical test strip is provided. The method comprises steps of applying a voltage to electrodes of the test strip at least during one of a sample presence detection period and an incubation period; and repeatedly increasing and decreasing the voltage during at least one of the sample presence detection period and the incubation period.
US08236162B2	Electroerosion machining system and method for electrode wear compensation An electroerosion machining system comprises an electrode, a power supply, an electrolyte supply, an electroerosion controller connected to and monitoring the power supply, and a working apparatus configured to move the electrode relative to the workpiece. The electroerosion machining system further comprises a CNC controller configured to cooperate with the electroerosion controller to control the working apparatus, and to calculate a wear value of the electrode. Further, the CNC controller is configured to segment the toolpath of every layer into a plurality of segments, and to divide the compensation value for every layer to be machined into a plurality of value segments, and further to use the value segments to compensate for electrode wear along the respective toolpath segments during machining of the workpiece. An electroerosion machining method is also presented.
US08236156B2	Microfluidic method and device for transferring mass between two immiscible phases A method of transferring mass of at least one solute between a liquid first phase and a fluid second phase that is immiscible with the first phase, the method comprising moving at least one droplet of said liquid first phase in a microfluidic device by using electric-type forces (electrowetting or dielectrophoresis) within a space that is filled with said fluid second phase. Said droplet is preferably moved by said electric-type forces along a path between a point for injecting said droplet into said microfluidic device, and an extraction and/or analysis zone, said path being defined in such a manner that said droplet sweeps through a significant fraction of said space filled with said fluid second phase. The method may include a step of transferring said droplet using said electric-type forces to a chemical analysis device integrated in said microfluidic device, and a step of chemically analyzing said droplet. The invention also provides a device for implementing such a method.
US08236155B2	Exhaust gas sensor An exhaust gas sensor that simultaneously exhibits enhanced water soak resistance and functionality, that is multilayered and exposed to a space in an exhaust path. The exhaust gas sensor includes: an electrolyte layer, positioned between an exhaust electrode and an atmosphere electrode; an atmospheric layer formation layer formed toward the atmosphere electrode to form an atmospheric layer to which the atmosphere electrode is exposed; a porous diffusion resistance layer formed toward the exhaust electrode to control flow rate of an exhaust gas reaching the exhaust electrode; and a porous trap layer formed to cover the entire section exposed to the space in the exhaust path. The trap layer includes a first trap layer, which covers a region near a gas inlet/outlet section of the diffusion resistance layer, and a second trap layer, which covers another region that covered by the first trap layer. The first trap layer is thinner than the second trap layer.
US08236153B2	Immobilization support, process for producing the same, electrode, process for producing the same, electrode reaction utilizing apparatus and process for producing the same An immobilization carrier containing an electron acceptor compound is used in addition to glutaraldehyde and poly-L-lysine to immobilize an enzyme and an electron acceptor compound simultaneously to an electrode. For example, here are used diaphorase as the enzyme and 2-amino-3-carboxy-1, 4-naphthoquinone (ACNQ) as the electron acceptor compound.
US08236151B1	Substrate carrier for wet chemical processing A carrier provides the ability to perform wet chemical processing on substrates using low cost equipment inspired by the electroplating methods typically utilized in leadframe-based semiconductor packaging or printed circuit board industries. Two frame pieces are mated together to form the carrier which enables transport of at least one substrate through wet chemical processing and includes a non-conductive frame with an exposed conductive flange to allow electrical coupling with processing equipment. Electrical contacts within the non-conductive frame make contact with the at least one substrate and are coupled to the conductive flange allowing an electrical potential to develop across the substrate while undergoing processing within the electroplating equipment.
US08236150B2	Plasma-arc-through apparatus and process for submerged electric arcs An application for a recycler includes a pressure and temperature resistant metal vessel that is filled with a liquid. Within the vessel is at least one submerged electric arc between a pair of carbon base electrodes powered by either a DC or AC current. The vessel has mechanical systems that maintain and optimize the electric arc. The electric arc produces a combustible gas. The liquid is pumped through a bore in one or more of the electrodes, delivering the liquid directly to the location of the arc, thereby reducing or eliminating any ignition of the gas by the arc.
US08236145B2	Electrolysis prevention device and method of use An electrolysis prevention device, for preventing corrosion caused by electrolysis, includes a sacrificial anode made of an active metal and an anode holder supporting the sacrificial anode. The holder is adapted to fit around the inlet connection of an engine heat exchange component, such as a radiator or heater core, in such a way as to allow for a hose to be attached overtop the device. The device may be included in an originally-manufactured engine heat exchange component or may be installed later.
US08236144B2	Method and apparatus for multiple resonant structure process and reaction chamber A method and apparatus is described comprising of a plurality of electromagnetic resonant structures coupled to a common process or reaction volume, such that resonance of each structure is maintained while the process or reaction volume is a part of each resonant structure. At the same time, each resonant structure is matched to its respective electromagnetic generator. Such a system allows each generator and its delivery system to run at rated power, with summation of all the powers occurring in the common process or reaction volume. In various embodiments of this invention, the various electromagnetic generators can run at the same or different frequencies. The various resonant structures can be single mode or multimode, or a mixture of single mode and multi mode. The various resonant structures can be arranged spatially in order to couple several structures to the process or reaction volume. Various spatial arrangements also allow coupling of either the electric or the magnetic field to the process or reaction volume, as well as allowing the generation of rotating fields in the process or reaction volume with any orientation of the rotating field with respect to the process or reaction volume.
US08236133B2	Plasma reactor with center-fed multiple zone gas distribution for improved uniformity of critical dimension bias A gas distribution assembly for the ceiling of a plasma reactor includes a center fed hub and an equal path length distribution gas manifold underlying the center fed hub.
US08236132B2	Substrate processing system and substrate transfer method A substrate processing system (100) includes a first automated substrate transfer line or main transfer line (20) configured to transfer wafers (W) over the entire system and to transfer wafers to and from respective process sections, and a second automated substrate transfer line or auxiliary transfer line (30) configured to transfer wafers (W) inside a photolithography process section (1a). The auxiliary transfer line (30) is disposed as a transfer mechanism independent of the main transfer line (20). An OHT (31) is configured to travel around on the auxiliary transfer line (30) having a loop shape, so as to transfer wafers (W) to and from and among the respective process apparatuses in the photolithography process section (1a).
US08236131B2	Thermoplastic resin composition, multilayer laminate comprising the same, article obtained by allowing the thermoplastic resin composition to adhere thereto, and method for protecting surface of article [Problem] To provide a thermoplastic resin composition which is excellent in transparency and adhesion properties and hardly causes staining of an adherend after it is separated, a multilayer laminate using the composition, an article, and a method for protecting a surface of an article.[Means for solving problem] A thermoplastic resin composition (X) comprising the following components (A) to (C): (A) isotactic polypropylene containing not less than 90% by mol of propylene units, in an amount of 1 to 65% by weight, (B) a propylene copolymer which is a copolymer of propylene and at least one α-olefin of 2 to 20 carbon atoms (excluding propylene) and whose melting point, as measured by DSC, is lower than 65° C. or is not observed, in an amount of 30 to 94% by weight, and (C) a 1-butene-based polymer which is selected from the group consisting of a 1-butene homopolymer and a copolymer of 1-butene and an α-olefin of 2 to 20 carbon atoms (excluding 1-butene) (said copolymer containing not less than 16% by mol of 1-butene units) and whose melting point, as measured by DSC, is in the range of 65 to 135° C., in an amount of 5 to 60% by weight, the total amount of said components (A) to (C) being 100% by weight.
US08236129B2	Attachment pad with thermal reversible adhesive and methods of making and using the same One embodiment provides an attachment pad including a multilayer thermo-reversible adhesive including a shape memory polymer layer and a dry adhesive layer underlying the shape memory polymer layer, the multilayer thermo-reversible adhesive having a curved surface when the shape memory polymer layer is below its glass transition temperature and unaffected by a load; and a means for evenly applying a load and/or detaching force on the perimeter of the multilayer thermo-reversible adhesive including a spring.
US08236124B1	Method for fabricating grid-stiffened composite structures A method for fabricating a grid-stiffened structure from fiber-reinforced composite materials. A skin is applied to a smooth, hard base tool. Ribs comprised of carbon-fiber tows are formed on the skin, and shallow cavities are formed between the ribs and the skin. An expansion block is placed in each of the cavities, and is held in place by an elastomeric contact adhesive having adhesive properties that are substantially diminished when the adhesive is heated to an elevated curing temperature. The assembly is then autoclave cured. After cooling, the formed structure is separated from the base tool and the expansion blocks are removed from the cavities. A grid-stiffened sandwich structure is formed by applying an outer skin over the ribs and expansion blocks, before curing the assembly. After cooling, the outer skin is removed to allow extraction of the blocks, and subsequently bonded to the ribs.
US08236123B2	Heat transfer materials and methods of making and using the same A heat transfer paper configured to reduce the amount of stray toner on a heat transfer material, especially when the image is formed via a laser printer or laser copier, is generally disclosed. The heat transfer material includes an image-receptive coating overlying a splittable layer and a base sheet. The image-receptive coating includes thermoplastic polyolefin wax microparticles, a thermoplastic binder, and a humectant. The thermoplastic polyolefin wax microparticles have an average particle size of from about 30 microns to about 50 microns and melt at temperatures between about 130° C. and about 200° C.
US08236122B2	Heat transfer methods and sheets for applying an image to a colored substrate A method of forming an opaque image on a substrate is generally provided. The method generally includes the use of three papers: a toner printable sheet, a coating transfer sheet, and an opaque transfer sheet. Toner printing can be utilized to print an image on the toner printable sheet, and then the toner ink can be utilized to remove a portion of a melt coating layer from the coating transfer sheet to form an intermediate imaged coated transfer sheet. This intermediate imaged coated transfer sheet and the opaque transfer sheet can then be utilized to form an image, defined by the opaque areas, on a substrate.
US08236121B2	Method for producing a corrugated stretch laminate A process for making a corrugated stretch laminate comprising the steps of providing a first carrier web having a first surface and a second surface; applying a first elastomeric composition in a fluid or molten state to the first surface of the carrier web to form at least one first elastic member; incrementally stretching in a first direction at least a portion of the carrier web to form a stretch composite preform; elongating the stretch composite preform in the first direction; joining a first substrate to the elongated stretch composite preform; and allowing the elongated stretch composite preform to recover to form said corrugated stretch laminate.
US08236120B2	Method and apparatus for manufacturing a wrap-around tube In a method for manufacturing a wrap-around tube from at lest one strip-shaped material, the wrapping is brought about by at least one rotating wrapping element which is indirectly or directly in engagement with the wrap-around tube, and the strip-shaped material is wrapped onto a stationary wrapping core. An apparatus for manufacturing a wrap-around tube from at least one strip-shaped material is distinguished by the fact that it has a rotating wrapping element, which is indirectly or directly in engagement with the wrap-around tube, and a stationary wrapping core, onto which the at least one strip-shaped material is wrapped.
US08236114B2	Method and system for placing a corner reinforcement insert in a gypsum board corner assembly A gypsum board corner assembly is formed with an integrated reinforcement strip. The strip may be a folded sheet-metal strip or a thin rod. First, a gypsum board is formed with a groove that extends substantially through the entire gypsum core, but leaves the laminate paper of one side. Then a reinforcement insert is placed in the groove. Here, the insert is formed of or includes ferromagnetic material. The insert is subjected to a magnetic field to pull the insert into the groove, by action of the magnet. After an amount of adhesive is applied in the groove, the gypsum board is folded along the groove while the insert is being pulled into the groove by the magnet. The resulting gypsum board corner assembly has a very accurately placed insert that defines a straight corner edge thereof.
US08236110B2	Method of producing grain-oriented electrical steel sheet The invention produces a grain-oriented electrical steel sheet having a primary recrystallization structure in which Goss-oriented crystal grains and crystal grains having a coincidence orientation relationship to the Goss orientation are aligned in the rolling direction. It is characterized heating a slab containing, in mass %, C: 0.025 to 0.10%, Si: 2.5 to 4.5%, Mn: 0.03 to 0.55%, and Al: 0.007 to 0.040% to 1,100 to 1,450° C. or greater; hot rolling the slab to obtain a hot-rolled sheet; annealing the hot-rolled sheet; cold rolling the annealed sheet multiple times with a split-housing reversible cluster rolling mill; and subjecting the cold-rolled sheet to primary recrystallization annealing followed by secondary recrystallization annealing, in which method: (a) a first cold rolling or first and second cold rollings are performed using a small-diameter work roll of 55 mm to less than 105 mm diameter; (b) a second or third cold rolling to a penultimate cold rolling are performed using a large-diameter work roll of 105 mm to less than 150 mm diameter; and (c) a final cold rolling is conducted using a small work roll of a diameter smaller than the diameter of the large-diameter work roll.
US08236109B2	Component cleaning method and storage medium A method for cleaning a component in a substrate processing apparatus including a processing chamber, foreign materials being attached to the component, at least a part of the component being exposed inside the processing chamber, and the substrate processing apparatus being adapted to load and unload a foreign material adsorbing member into and from the processing chamber. The method includes loading the foreign material adsorbing member into the processing chamber; generating a plasma nearer the component than the foreign material adsorbing member; extinguishing the plasma; and unloading the foreign material adsorbing member from the processing chamber, wherein the generation and the extinguishment of the plasma are repeated alternately and the foreign material adsorbing member has a positive potential at least during the extinguishment of the plasma.
US08236106B2	Shower head and substrate processing apparatus A shower head is provided in a processing chamber for processing a substrate therein. Further, the shower head has a facing surface facing a mounting table for mounting thereon the substrate and serves to supply one or more gases through the facing surface toward the substrate. The shower head includes a central gas supply unit for supplying a first gas through a central portion of the facing surface toward the substrate, a peripheral gas supply unit for supplying a second gas through a peripheral portion of the facing surface toward the substrate and a gas exhaust unit, provided with a plurality of gas exhaust holes formed between the central gas supply unit and the peripheral gas supply unit, for exhausting the first and the second gas from the facing surface.
US08236105B2	Apparatus for controlling gas flow in a semiconductor substrate processing chamber Apparatus for controlling the flow of a gas between a process region and an exhaust port in a semiconductor substrate processing chamber is provided. The apparatus includes at least one restrictor plate supported within the semiconductor processing chamber and at least partially circumscribing a substrate support pedestal. The restrictor plate is adapted to control the flow of at least one gas flowing between the process region and the exhaust port.
US08236102B1	Hydrothermal methods of fabricating trivalent-metal-ion-doped sapphire crystals A method of hydrothermally synthesizing sapphire single crystals doped with trivalent metal ions in a crystal-growth autoclave including a crystal-growth zone and nutrient-dissolution zone in fluid communication with the crystal-growth zone is provided. Implementations of the method including situating within the crystal-growth zone at least one sapphire-based seed crystal and situating within the nutrient-dissolution zone an aluminum-containing material to serve as nutrient. An acidic, trivalent-metal-ion-containing growth solution is introduced into the cavity in a quantity sufficient, at least when heated to a predetermined average temperature, to immerse the at least one seed crystal and the nutrient in the growth solution. The growth solution is selected such that sapphire exhibits retrograde solubility therein and the growth process is carried out while maintaining an interior-cavity pressure within a range between and including each of 3.5 kilopounds per square inch and 25 kilopounds per square inch and while maintaining a temperature differential between the crystal-growth and nutrient-dissolution zones such that the average temperature within the crystal-growth zone is higher than the average temperature within the nutrient-dissolution zone.
US08236094B2	Exhaust gas purifying device The present invention provides an exhaust gas purifying device including an electrically insulated hollow cylindrical case, a cylindrical outer circumferential electrode arranged on an inner wall of the hollow cylindrical case, a bar-shaped center electrode held on a center axis of the outer circumferential electrode, and a metallic hollow cylindrical body arranged between the outer circumferential electrode and the center electrode, wherein the metallic hollow cylindrical body is electrically insulated and has a plurality of holes to permit particulate matter to pass therethrough without being accumulated.
US08236092B1	Pressure gradient gas scrubber apparatus and method A gas scrubber employing liquid droplets injected into a flowing gas stream at a higher velocity than the gas velocity, having means to create a gradient of increasing pressure downstream from the droplet injection site, which gradient decelerates the gas and thereby increases the velocity of the droplets relative to the gas, thus increasing the total path length of the droplets through the gas, so as to allow substantial increase of scrubber collection efficiency without use of increased scrubber size or increased liquid droplet flow rate.
US08236091B2	Fluid separation method and fluid separation apparatus A fluid separation apparatus suitable for separating a mixed fluid with different properties and capable of separating a complex fluid mixture efficiently is provided. The fluid separation apparatus includes a sampling entrance, a first separation column, a second separation column, a bypass line, a detector and a guide multi-channel valve. A mixed fluid flows into the first separation column via the sampling entrance. The second separation column is connected to the first separation column in series and connected to the bypass line in parallel. The detector is connected to the second separation column and the bypass line. The guide multi-channel valve has different modes to control a flow-through status and a closed status between the first separation column and the second separation column, between the first separation column and the bypass line, between the second separation column and the detector, and between the bypass line and the detector.
US08236088B2	Metal mold repair method and metal mold repair paste agent Providing a metal mold repair method and a metal mold repair paste agent which are capable of repairing cracks with simple work. A repair paste agent containing components that become an alloy is directly applied to a surface of a metal mold having a crack so as to cover the crack part, subsequently a surface of the repair paste agent is coated with an oxidation inhibitor and the repair paste agent is made to penetrate the inside of the crack by heating and becomes an alloy, thereby filling up the crack.
US08236086B2	Coated fertilizer Coated fertilizer wherein the fertilizer comprises fertilizer particles coated with a biomass composition comprising 1-60 wt. % solid biomass particles with a D50 between 0 and 150 μm and 99-40 wt. % oil, a biomass composition wherein the biomass composition comprises solid biomass particles with a D50 between 0 and 150 μm and a process for the production of a biomass composition wherein a biomass composition comprising solid particles having a D50 between 30 and 500 μm is filtrated and the residue is grinded until the solid particles have a D50 between 0 and 150 μm.
US08236081B2	Permeable membrane water dissipation device An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a water dissipation device to remove water vapor from a humidified gas traveling through a breathing circuit between a patient and a ventilator, or a ventilator and a patient. The present invention includes a water dissipation device having a housing defining entry and exit ports for coupling to the breathing circuit and a breathable medium permeable to water vapor and impermeable to liquid water bacteria, viruses and other gases enclosed within said housing.
US08236080B2	Ratchet clip A ratchet clip for lockably and releasably closing a cover onto a base of a air filter housing is disclosed. The ratchet clip includes an elongated retention member secured at one portion of the housing and having a plurality of teeth forming a series of pockets and ridges. A rocker member is pivotally secured to a different housing portion and is aligned to lockably engage the retention member. A latching member on the rocker member is sized, configured and positioned to lockably engage into the pockets thereby inhibiting movement of the latching member in an opening direction relative to the retention member. A spring biases the rocker member to lockably and releasably engage the retention member thereby preventing movement in an opening direction of the rocker member relative to the retention member. The teeth have surfaces configured to permit the latching member to slide over the teeth in a closing direction relative to the retention member, even while the spring biases. The rocker body is operable to overcome biasing of the spring, permitting the rocker member to disengage the latching member thereby allowing the latching member to slide freely relative to the retention member.
US08236079B2	Air filter system for a vehicle and method for mounting the same An air filter system is provided for a vehicle. The air filter system includes, but is not limited to a raw air duct, a filter housing with an air filter element, and a filtered air duct to an internal combustion engine. The raw air duct and the filtered air duct are connected to a corresponding raw air inlet or a filtered air outlet of the filter housing. The air filter system with filter housing and raw air duct is disposed as a structural unit partly in the engine compartment and partly in an air intake region separate from the engine compartment. An adapter of the air filter system supported on the bodywork of the vehicle is disposed in a transition zone from the engine compartment to the air intake region.
US08236078B2	Filter bag A filter bag includes a first filter material layer including an inflow opening, a second filter material layer having edges along which the second filter layer is joined to the first filter material layer to form an inside space; and a flat, multi-layer filter insert arranged in the inside space and having sections connected, respectively, to the first and second material layers. The filter insert has at least two outer layers defining an intermediate area there between. The intermediate area includes a center layer or an intermediate space for dust collection.
US08236077B2	Handheld cleaning appliance A handheld cleaning appliance includes a dirty air inlet, a clean air outlet and separating apparatus for separating dirt and dust from an airflow in an airflow path leading from the air inlet to the air outlet. The separating apparatus includes a cyclonic separator having at least one first cyclone and a plurality of second cyclones arranged in parallel with one another and located downstream of the first cyclone. By providing a cyclonic separator having a plurality of second cyclones in parallel, the handheld cleaning appliance is capable of separating fine dirt and dust particles without using barriers such as filters or bags which need maintenance to ensure that performance remains high over a period of time.
US08236076B2	Portable apparatus for cleaning air filters An apparatus for cleaning an air filter includes a body, a closed chamber formed within the body, a fluid dispersing member having a portion thereof mounted for rotation within the body and passing through the chamber, a plurality of orifices formed through the wall of the fluid dispersing member and an arrangement for rotating the fluid dispersing member. The arrangement either includes a combination of nozzles secured to the fluid dispersing member and positioned within the chamber and an irregular inner wall surface of the chamber capable of providing resistance to a fluid flow discharged into the chamber or fins disposed on the fluid dispersing member and a passageway through the body for directing fluid under pressure onto the fins. Fluid supplied under pressure to the fluid dispersing member exits through the plurality of orifices toward an inner surface of a air filter filtering medium causing contaminants to exit therefrom.
US08236075B2	Bamboo charcoal composite abrasive material and method of fabricating the same An abrasive material is fabricated. The material is made of bamboo charcoal. The charcoal has vascular bundles and abrasive particles are uniformly distributed and fixed on inner surfaces of the vascular bundles. Thus, the abrasive material can be used with self-sharpening for grinding, polishing, lubricating, etc.
US08236071B2	Methods and apparatus for cooling syngas within a gasifier system A quench ring for use with a gasifier system. The quench ring including an annular manifold having a radius, an annular channel coupled in flow communication with said manifold, and at least one inlet coupled in flow communication with said manifold, said at least one inlet having a center line aligned substantially tangentially to said annular manifold.
US08236066B2	Method and configuration for melting silicon A process for melting silicon, in which silicon bodies (4; 14; 24) are detached from a silicon starting material (2) - (40) -, the silicon bodies (4; 14; 24) being dimensioned - (40) - in such a way that they can be arranged in a heatable crucible (6), the silicone bodies (4; 14; 24) are arranged in the crucible (6) and the crucible (6) is heated - (46) -, at least some of the cavities (10) that occur between the crucible walls (7) and the silicon bodies (4; 14; 24) or between monolithic parts of the silicon bodies (4; 14; 24) when the silicon bodies (4; 14; 24) are arranged in the crucible (6) - (42) - being at least partially filled with silicon granules (8; 18, 20; 28) - (44) -, and an arrangement for melting silicon.
US08236065B2	Azo pigment, process for producing azo pigment, dispersion containing azo pigment, and coloring composition There is provided an azo pigment having excellently good color reproducibility, dispersibility, and storage stability of pigment dispersions and having excellent hue and tinctorial strength. An azo pigment represented by the following formula (1) and having characteristic peaks at Bragg angles (20±0.2°) of 7.2°, 13.4°, 15.0° and 25.9° in X-ray diffraction with characteristic Cu Kα line, and a tautomer thereof:
US08236056B2	Intervertebral implant for the lumbrosacral articulation The invention provides an intervertebral implant for the lumbo-sacral joint, the implant consisting in a spacer suitable for being placed between the fifth lumbar vertebra and the sacral vertebra articulated thereto, the body of said spacer presenting in its top face a groove extending in the midplane of the spacer and suitable for receiving the spinous process of said lumbar vertebra. A longitudinal housing oriented orthogonally to said groove is formed in the bottom face and is suitable for receiving the top portion of the sacral vertebra. The longitudinal housing is defined by an extension and by a tab of width narrower than the width of the body of the spacer. The section of the housing in the midplane of the space is generally U-shaped, being inclined relative to the bottom of the groove.
US08236055B2	Intervertebral prosthesis for supporting adjacent vertebral bodies enabling the creation of soft fusion and method An intervertebral prosthetic disc for replacing a damaged natural disc includes upper and lower vertebral body engaging surfaces, an exterior wall and one or more generally vertically oriented bone channels of limited cross-sectional area to allow bone to form and fuse into continuous or discontinuous struts between the bodies. The stiffness of the disc, while supporting the bodies, allows the distance therebetween to narrow sufficiently when subjected to a predetermined load such as the patient standing, walking, etc., to transfer sufficient energy to the bone struts to create one or more nonunion joints or pseudoarthrosis at locations along the struts. The disc includes stops to limit the movement thereof to an amount sustainable by the disc without resulting in fatigue failure.
US08236054B2	Breast implants and methods of manufacture An implantable soft tissue prosthesis comprising a hollow shell formed of a flexible elastomeric envelope, the shell having an inner volume and an exterior surface, when the inner volume is filled with an elastomeric silicone tubing that is preshaped conforming to the inner volume of the shell, the prosthesis being adapted to be surgically implanted in a human breast.
US08236047B2	Stent with enhanced friction A stent for placement in a body lumen is fabricated by forming a tube having an un-deployed diameter sized for the tube to be placed on a deployment balloon and advanced through a body lumen to a deployment site. The tube is expandable upon inflation of the balloon to an enlarged diameter sized for the tube to be retained within the lumen at the site upon deflation and withdrawal of the balloon. The tube has a stent axis extending between first and second axial ends of the tube. The tube has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The tube is polished to polish the exterior surface to a smooth surface finish and with at least a portion of the interior surface having a rough surface finish rougher than the surface finish of the exterior surface.
US08236044B2	Stent design with variable expansion columns along circumference A stent comprises at least one curve deployment section. The at least one curve deployment section comprises at least one expansion ring having a circumferential length, a longitudinal length and comprising a first circumferential section and a second circumferential section. The first circumferential section comprises an expansion column and the second circumferential section comprises at least two expansion columns longitudinally offset from one another. The expansion column of the first circumferential section is engaged to the at least two expansion columns of the second circumferential section.
US08236043B2	Stent A stent for insertion in a fluid conduit of a human or animal body includes a hollow structure having generally circumferentially extending parts which have opposite end portions in the longitudinal direction. The circumferential parts are joined to a longitudinally adjacent circumferential parts along the length of the hollow structure wherein the end portions of adjacent circumferential parts are not in parallel planes and/or the end portions of the same part are not in parallel planes. Also, the non-parallel end portions are arranged along the length of the hollow structure such that a flow lumen defined by the hollow structure, and imposed on the flow lumen by the hollow structure when in the fluid conduit, follows a non-planar curve.
US08236038B2	Method and apparatus of noninvasive, regional brain thermal stimuli for the treatment of neurological disorders A method and device for treating neurological disorders involving the application of noninvasive, regional brain thermal stimulation to a region of a patient's head associated with a subject neurological disorder. The brain thermal stimulation method and device alters the brain function in the region of the brain underlying the region of the patient's head to which the brain cooling is applied. The method can also include the steps of adjusting the temperature and timing of the thermal stimulation process to optimize the impact on the subject disorder. The brain thermal stimulation device is comprised of a localized means for cooling or warming a desired region of a patient's brain.
US08236035B1	Spinal fixation system and method A spinal fixation system (1) for use in the fixation of a spine comprising: a coupling element (2) having a pair of opposed longitudinal apertures (17) through a wall (35) thereof; a longitudinal slot (8) in a coupling element (2) interior surface (3); a hole (13) through the bottom end (5) of the coupling element (2); and a securing element (18) dimensioned for insertion into the coupling element (2), the securing element (18) having an outwardly extending wing (26) dimensioned for riding in the coupling element slot (8), for preventing a rotation of the securing element (18) about a longitudinal axis (7) thereof.
US08236034B2	Bone fixation plate An apparatus for reducing the profile of a bone fixation plate while preventing backing out of screws is disclosed. The plate has at least two openings though which two screws can pass through bony tissue. The apparatus includes at least one section of relief and sections of engagement. As the screw is tightened, it will begin to lag the plate to the bone. When the screw head interferes with the plate at the interference point, there is a slight resistance that insertion forces can overcome. When the screw is advanced further, it snaps into the sliding fit area and is allowed to move freely. The forces that cause the screw to back out from the plate are preferably not strong enough to pass the screw head back past the interference section. At least one of the two openings is configured as an elongated slot to allow the screw to translate in the slot. It may be desirable to include a set screw to help prevent backout.
US08236033B2	Spinal plate assembly Spinal plate assembly, and methods of use, wherein a retaining element such as a retaining band, optionally a resiliently flexible band, mounted to a spinal plate, activates a blocking feature of the spinal plate assembly to thereby prevent the bone fastener from withdrawing out of the spinal plate assembly and past the blocking member. The apertures are typically, but not necessarily, elongate slots, elongate axes of all such slots being commonly oriented. The band can be fabricated from a variety of bio-stable, bio-compatible medical grade materials, including metals or implantable plastics. The retaining element or elements can be disposed in intermittently-located channel elements in the plate.
US08236030B2	Advanced intra-spinal decompression implant A new Intra-spinal decompression implant is introduced that comprises of two plate attachments to a titanium metal implant that fits between the spinous processes of the vertebrae in the lower back, decompressing the neuro elements. The invention has a number of new design features including: double axis adjustable side plates, stepped conical tipped body and piercing tips on side plates, among many mentioned in this disclosure, that improves the quality of the surgery and the result for the patient. More examples are given in this application.
US08236025B2	Silicone insulated electrosurgical forceps An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end thereof that are movable about a pivot from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue. A movable handle is included that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another. One or both of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy to conduct energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of one or both jaw members and about the pivot. The flexible insulating boot includes an internal cavity defined therein that retains a free-flowing material therein configured to disperse from the internal cavity when ruptured.
US08236021B2	Handheld device for the repetitive local puncturing of a skin for an input of a liquid active substance The invention relates to a handheld device for the repetitive local puncturing of a skin for an input of a liquid active substance, particularly a permanent make-up and tattoo handheld device, with: a piercing device formed in a needle module with repetitive movement forwards and backwards, which piercing device is driven with the help of a drive unit formed in a drive module, a reservoir for the liquid active substance, a pump system coupled to the reservoir where the said pump system is configured in order to discharge the liquid active substance held in a cavity of the reservoir by means of pressure application, and a fluid connection running at least partially in a needle module casing where said fluid connection is configured in order to supply the liquid active substance from the reservoir to the piercing device.
US08236017B2	Ultrasonic therapeutic apparatus A surgical operating apparatus includes rod-shaped probe main body which is inserted into a sheath and has a distal end and which is configured to transmit ultrasonic vibration, a jaw pivoted to a distal end of the sheath, a probe distal end which is provided at the distal end of the probe main body and a driving member including a tubular main body portion configured to be inserted into the sheath slidably along an axial direction of the sheath and an acting portion which is provided at a distal end of the main body portion and has a connection portion connected to the jaw, the connection portion positioned. The sheath includes a notched portion positioned and configured to prevent the sheath from contacting the proximal portion of the jaw.
US08236016B2	Atherectomy devices and methods The devices and methods generally relate to treatment of occluded body lumens. In particular, the present devices and method relate to removal of the occluding material from the blood vessels as well as other body lumens.
US08236015B2	Seal element for anastomosis A seal element for sealing between tissue lumens includes a first material for allowing tissue ingrowth and a second sealant material.
US08236014B2	Methods for arterio-venous fistula creation Methods are disclosed for the formation of arterio-venous fistula creation. Embodiments include a femoral access approach to the creation of an Aorta-caval fistula at the bifurcation of the Aorta and the Inferior Vena Cava; an apparatus for the creation, modification and maintenance of a fistula; and a method of supplying oxygenated blood to the venous circulation of a patient. The devices, systems and methods can be used to treat patients with one or more numerous ailments including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, hypertension, hypotension, respiratory failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, lung fibrosis and adult respiratory distress syndrome.
US08236012B2	Surgical clip advancement mechanism A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and an elongate shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws formed on a distal end thereof. The trigger is adapted to advance a clip to position the clip between the jaws, and to move the jaws from an open position to a closed position to crimp the clip positioned therebetween.
US08236006B2	One step entry pedicular preparation device and disc access system A one step entry pedicular preparation device works well with Minimal Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS) to facilitating such approach. A related intervertebral disc access system and pedicle screw compatible with the systems is also illustrated. The systems include a manipulator having a bar handle and main body with main barrel bore a pedicle dart having a proximal tip end and a second distal open end selectably attachable to the manipulator using a variety of interconnect configurations, both of which work in conjunction with a guide pin. The pedicle darts can be made of any material, disposable or re-usable and can be utilized for a variety of purposes, including bone structure formation for faster conventional pedicle screw insertion with precision and vertebra fixation.
US08236004B2	Inserter for minimally invasive joint surgery having an interchangeable prosthesis engaging piston An acetabular inserter (10) aids a surgeon in controlling the installation of an acetabular cup prosthesis (11) having a central, female aperture (13). The inserter includes an inserter head (20), a housing (12) and a locking mechanism. The housing (12) is attached to the inserter head, the housing enclosing a drive train (14) having, at a far end (134), a prosthesis engaging thread (124), and at the opposite end (42′), a handle (20) which facilitates turning of the drive train by the operator. The locking mechanism is associated with the housing which selectively locks the drive train, and thus the prosthesis, in position. The opposite end (42′) of the drive train has a latch device which enables quick removal from the housing for cleaning and sterilization.
US08236003B2	Prosthesis component holder attachable to an inserter handle An adaptor/holder (40) is described which attaches to the front (18) of an existing orthopedic inserter/impactor handle (10) via the handle's existing threaded interface mechanism (22). The adaptor/holder (40) has an annular housing (42) that snaps onto the front (18) of the existing inserter (10), and has an internal yoke and pin assembly (70) that attached to the handle's interface mechanism (22). The holder (40) adapts the inserter (10) to much more easily and quickly release from a prosthetic component (12) after the component (12) is surgically implanted in a patient, and with less mechanical manipulation than could otherwise be accomplished using the inserter (10) alone. The adaptor/holder utilizes the inserter's existing mount tensioning (draw piston) mechanism (30) to quickly engage and disengage the prosthetic component (12). Upon activation of the inserter's tensioning mechanism (30), the holder (10) receives and fixes a prosthetic component (12) to the end (18) of the inserter (10). Deactivation of the inserter handle's tensioning mechanism (30) quickly accomplishes release of the prosthetic component (12) with minimal manipulation.
US08236000B2	Method and apparatus for performing an open wedge, high tibial osteotomy The present invention comprises a novel method and apparatus for performing an open wedge, high tibial osteotomy. More particularly, the present invention comprises the provision and use of a novel method and apparatus for forming an appropriate osteotomy cut into the upper portion of the tibia, manipulating the tibia so as to open an appropriate wedge-like opening in the tibia, and then mounting an appropriately-shaped implant at the wedge-like opening in the tibia, so as to stabilize the tibia with the desired orientation, whereby to reorient the lower portion of the tibia relative to the tibial plateau and hence adjust the manner in which load is transferred from the femur to the tibia.
US08235996B2	Acetabular reamer A method of reaming an acetabulum includes the steps of: providing an acetabular reamer including a partially hemispherical shell having a shell radius, and a base including a first circumferential base segment and a second circumferential base segment, the shell including a first part on one side of the first circumferential base segment and the second circumferential base segment, and a second part on another side of the first circumferential base segment and the second circumferential base segment, the acetabular reamer further including a first non-planar surface connected to the first part, the first non-planar surface having a first curvature not equal to the shell radius, and a second non-planar surface connected to the second part, the second non-planar surface having a second curvature not equal to the shell radius; connecting the acetabular reamer to a driver; and reaming the acetabulum.
US08235992B2	Insulating boot with mechanical reinforcement for electrosurgical forceps An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end thereof that is movable about a pivot from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue. A movable handle is included that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another and at least one of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of one or both jaw members and about the pivot. The flexible boot includes one or more mechanically reinforcing elements operatively coupled thereto that is configured enhance the rigidity of the insulating boot.
US08235986B2	Systems and methods for transeptal cardiac procedures, including tissue penetrating members and associated methods Systems and methods for transeptal cardiac procedures are disclosed. A method for treating a patient in accordance with a particular embodiment includes positioning a tissue penetrating guidewire adjacent to a cardiac septum, directing pulses of energy to the guidewire, and advancing the guidewire into and through the septum by moving the guidewire in a distal direction in a series of discrete steps. Individual steps can be of a predetermined distance measured outside the patient's body. The method can further include passing a catheter over the guidewire after the guidewire has passed through the septum.
US08235984B2	Tuna device with integrated saline reservoir Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. By way of additional example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator coupled to a fluid source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes conductive fluid to flow from the fluid source to the target tissue location and causes the electrode to be introduced to the target tissue location. The fluid source may be a conductive fluid, such as saline, which may increase the efficiency of ablation. Various other configurations and methods that simplify tissue ablation are also discussed.
US08235980B2	Electrosurgical system for measuring contact quality of a return pad A return pad includes a backing, at least one return electrode, and at least one ring sensor. The backing has a top side, a bottom side, and a periphery. The return electrode is disposed on the bottom side of the backing layer and is adapted to connect to a current generator. The ring sensor(s) is disposed in substantial concentric registration with the periphery of the backing and is configured to connect to a measuring component. The measuring component is operable to approximate contact quality of the return electrode during electrosurgical application and is configured to communicate with the generator.
US08235977B2	Ablation devices and methods of use Described herein are various methods and devices for delivering cryoablative therapy. One such device includes a cryoablation chamber and a volume displacement chamber. In use, the volume displacement chamber can be expanded to occupy a non-therapeutic volume.
US08235971B2	Catheter connection systems A catheter connection system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a catheter connection system may include at least two components and a deformable sealing element positioned between the at least two components configured to allow, upon deformation, fluid flow through the at least two components. In another embodiment, the catheter connection system may include a sealing element positioned between at least two components, wherein the components are coupled to one another by a locking member.
US08235966B1	Electromanipulation method The present invention is a method for electromanipulation of chemical species in vivo relative to a target tissue utilizing a nonconductive, conformable array base adapted to be placed coincident to the target tissue, a plurality of electrode elements projecting from the array base towards the target tissue, the electrode elements addressable individually, an electrical source coupled to the plurality of electrodes, a control means interposed between the electrical source and the plurality of electrode elements and in circuit communication therein, the control means adapted to establish an electrical potential between at least two electrodes, and a delivery means adapted to introduce chemical species to the target tissue.
US08235965B2	Embedded access dual chamber bag A multiple chamber medical fluid bag includes: (i) a flexible enclosure; (ii) a first fluid chamber formed in the enclosure; (iii) a second fluid chamber formed in the enclosure; (iv) the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber separated by a frangible seal; and (v) an access port connected to the enclosure, the port imbedded into the enclosure so as to completely surround the access port, the enclosure further configured such that the frangible seal is broken to uncover the access port.
US08235956B2	Packaging and kit for a female urine voiding apparatus Packaging for an extra-labial fluid voiding apparatus includes a tube having a cylindrical wall, a closed end, and an open end. The cylindrical wall and closed end define a cavity that can contain the voiding apparatus. The cylindrical wall is pliable and has an inner diameter. A cap is adapted to respectively close and open the tube at the open end. The cap has an end plate with an annular flange extending therefrom. The annular flange is rigid and has an outer diameter. The annular flange is insertable into the cavity at the open end of the tube and within the inner diameter of the cylindrical wall. The outer diameter of the flange is larger than the inner diameter of the cylindrical wall to a degree such that the outer diameter and the inner diameter are engageable in a press-fit arrangement, when the cap is connected to the tube.
US08235949B2	Application systems for use with medical devices An application or an attachment device for attaching a medical device includes a base layer and an adhesive layer on a rearward side of the base layer. The adhesive layer is adapted to removably attach the base layer. The adhesive layer can be adapted to removably attach the base layer to a patient (either a human patient or a lower animal patient). The device also includes a medical device attachment mechanism on a forward side of the base layer, The attachment mechanism is adapted to attach the medical device to the base layer. The medical device can, for example, be a sensor. The medical device attachment mechanism can, for example, include a mechanical attachment mechanism. The medical device attachment mechanism can additionally or alternatively include at least one adhesive layer on the base layer. The adhesive layer can, for example, be positioned on the base layer so that it does not extend beyond a footprint of the medical device when the medical device is attached to the base layer.
US08235944B2	Medical device for placement of continuous regional anesthesia catheters A medical device for placement of regional anesthesia catheters. The device comprises a hollow shaft needle, a plunger attached to the posterior end of the needle, a housing dimensioned so that plunger can slide inside the housing with friction, a regional anesthesia catheter preloaded inside the needle, a protective cover sheath covering the catheter, and a catheter adaptor attached to posterior end of the sheath and the catheter. The medical device allows a practitioner to quickly and effectively place a regional anesthesia catheter inside an organism without the use of an assistant, and with minimal risk of contaminating the catheter before it enters the organism's body. At the end, the needle is withdrawn inside the housing and disposed.
US08235943B2	Method and apparatus for prevention of catheter air intake A system for preventing air from entering a first catheter of a multi-catheter system. Air is prevented from entering the proximal end of the first catheter by an axially elongate chamber having an impeller, the chamber being affixed to the proximal end of the first catheter. The air is removed through a port near the centerline of the chamber. Liquid removed with the air is returned to the chamber to minimize liquid loss during the procedure. A second catheter inserted through the chamber and into the first catheter is unable to entrain gas into the first catheter because any gas that enters the chamber is routed to the centerline of the chamber where it is removed. Inflow of fluid from an external pump scrubs the second catheter shaft of air bubbles attached by surface tension.
US08235939B2	System and method for purging a reduced pressure apparatus during the administration of reduced pressure treatment A reduced pressure delivery system for applying a reduced pressure to a tissue site is provided. The system includes a manifold having a plurality of flow channels. The manifold is configured to be placed adjacent the tissue site. A first conduit is in fluid communication with the flow channels of the manifold to deliver a reduced pressure to the flow channels. A second conduit is in fluid communication with the flow channels of the manifold and is operably connected to a valve. The valve selectively purges the second conduit with ambient air when the valve is positioned in an open position, and a controller is operably connected to the valve to place the valve in the open position for a selected amount of time at a selected interval during delivery of reduced pressure through the first conduit.
US08235936B2	Micro-dialysis probe A micro-dialysis probe extending longitudinally between a proximal probe opening and a distal probe tip and having a supply line and a drainage line for a drip-feed solution. A tube may be provided for supporting the drainage line. A dialysis section, wherein the flow channel for the drip-feed solution experiences an inversion, is formed generally between the supply line and the drainage line, in the vicinity of the distal probe tip. The supply line and the drainage line are respectively arranged substantially side by side and together form the probe shaft of the micro-dialysis probe.
US08235933B2	Methods and apparatus for reducing localized circulatory system pressure The present invention is directed to methods and apparatus for decreasing pressure in the left atrium of a patient by implanting a valved shunt through the atrial septum, whereby a volume of blood sufficient to reduce pressure in said left atrium is released to the right atrium.
US08235932B2	Side-by-side lacrimal intubation threader and method A device to facilitate insertion or threading of a flexible silicone intubation stent into the lacrimal drainage system of a patient. The device has an oblong hollow semi-rigid probe having the flexible stent releasably secured to its blunted distal end. The probe and stent are oriented in a side-by-side configuration and inserted endwise through the punctal opening, down through the nasolacrimal duct and into the nasal cavity. The flexible stent is detached from the distal end of the probe, and the probe withdrawn, leaving the stent in place. The flexible stent can be temporarily secured to the distal end of the probe through a number of means. One preferred way is to friction fit a resilient distal aperture of the stent upon the distal end of the probe and occlude the probe's distal opening. The stent is detached by injecting a pressurized fluid through the channel of the probe thereby forcing the distal end of the stent to pop off. The proximal extremity of the stent is secured in the patient by an integrated or separate punctal anchor.
US08235930B1	Dressing and integrated system for detection of fluid loss A fluid loss detection device for dressings at pre-existing port sites, catheter sites, operative sites, ostomy sites, drain sites, line sites such as those utilized in hemodialysis, wound sites, or other areas for which monitoring of fluid or blood loss is medically indicated. The detection device includes a patch having a primary loop circuit and an early warning alarm circuit loop. In one embodiment, closure of the early warning alarm circuit loop activates an alarm. The alarm may be connected directly to the patch and sound locally or may be activated remotely via radio transmission. The alarm may alternatively cause a medical device such as a hemodialysis system to shut down.
US08235927B2	Wrist orthosis The invention relates to a wrist orthosis with a cuff, which is open for passage of the thumb and which is provided with stabilizing rods and with at least one tightening strap for fixing the orthosis on the wrist. The cuff has two adjacent thumb openings for receiving either the left or right thumb, wherein a central stabilizing rod extends between the thumb openings, and a lateral stabilizing rod extends along the outer side of each said opening in such a manner that the thumb openings are each located between the central stabilizing rod and the relevant lateral stabilizing rod.
US08235922B2	Identification means A pump supplies pressurized air to inflate compression garments, mattresses, cushions, or similar at the desired times and to desired pressures appropriate to the therapy. The garments are each identified by small steps generated in the pressure waveform during inflation, with the identifying means including a flat sheet valve in the connector chamber having vents to atmosphere and being situated along the flow path from the pump to the garment(s). As the air flows through the connection tubing and through the connector a pressure wave is generated by the valve and fed back upstream to a pressure sensor in the pump. The shape of the pressure waveform identifies a particular compression garment, the pump supplying the appropriate inflation regime upon detection of this pressure waveform.
US08235918B2	Control and integration of sensory data A sensory data integration system for integrating sensory data generated by a first sensory substitution device and sensory data generated by a second sensory substitution device. The system includes a processor configured to generate an orientation signal indicative of a difference between a subject's orientation and an acceptable orientation. The orientation signal is based on the sensory data generated by the first sensory substitution device and the sensory data generated by the second sensory substitution device.
US08235915B2	Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue A body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site includes a single drive force generator. A plurality of penetrating members are operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves each of the members along a path out of a housing with a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. A flexible support member couples the penetrating members to define a linear array. The support member is movable and configured to move each of the penetrating members to a launch position associated with the force generator.
US08235914B2	Measuring device for a lancet-integrated sensor A sensor and a lancet are integrated with each other. A thin strip-shaped sensor and a lancet are integrated so that the lancet moves in parallel, along a longitudinal direction of the sensor. A measuring device to which an integrated lancet and sensor is attached is provided with a function of driving the attached lancet.
US08235911B2	Methods and systems for filtering a signal according to a signal model and continuous wavelet transform techniques According to embodiments, systems and methods are provided for filtering a signal. A first reference signal may be generated according to a signal model and a second reference signal may be generated by analyzing a continuous wavelet transform of a signal. The first and second reference signals may then both be applied to an input signal to filter the input signal according to the components of both of the reference signals.
US08235910B2	Systems and methods for model-based estimation of cardiac ejection fraction, cardiac contractility, and ventricular end-diastolic volume The methods and systems for estimating cardiac ejection fraction, cardiac contractility, and ventricular end-diastolic volume on a beat-by-beat basis include observing arterial blood pressure waveforms to determine ventricular compliances for a pressure-volume loop in the ventricle. Uncalibrated or calibrated cardiac ejection fraction may be calculated from estimates of stroke volume and the ventricular compliances. Cardiac contractility may be calculated from estimates of a ventricular compliance. Uncalibrated or calibrated ventricular end-diastolic volume may also be calculated from estimates of stroke volume and the ventricular compliances. A set of calibration parameters for calibrating cardiac ejection fraction or ventricular end-diastolic volume may be estimated in a least-squares manner.
US08235904B2	Ultrasound system and method for forming BC-mode image A BC-mode image with an improved frame rate in an ultrasound system is formed. A transmit/receive unit forms first and second receive signals responsive to first and second control signals. An image processing unit is configured to form a B-mode image and a C-mode image based the first and second receive signals and to combine them to form a BC-mode image. A control unit is configured to divide scan lines into a plurality of scan line groups and to generate a third control signal for alternately selecting one of the scan line groups for a B-mode scan for forming scan line group receive signals. The control unit repeatedly generates the second and third control signals. The image processing unit is configured to update the first receive signals with the scan line group receive signals and form a B-mode image based on the updated first receive signals.
US08235901B2	Focused ultrasound system with far field tail suppression A method for treating body tissue using acoustic energy includes identifying a target focal zone of tissue to be treated, delivering a first pulse of acoustic energy from a transducer to generate bubbles in a tissue region located distally, relative to the transducer, of a focal center of the target focal zone, and delivering a second pulse of acoustic energy from the transducer in the presence of the bubbles generated by the first pulse, the second pulse focused at the focal center to generate thermal ablation energy. In a further embodiment, a method of treating body tissue using ultrasound energy includes identifying a target focal zone to be treated and delivering a plurality of pulses of acoustic ablation energy to locations distributed symmetrically in or proximate a focal plane about the focal center of the target focal zone.
US08235899B2	Ultrasound imaging device An ultrasound imaging device, which can extract nonlinear components efficiently and improve the ultrasound penetration, is provided. The receiver has a given reception band, and the lower limit frequency of the reception band is the first frequency. The frequency band of the ultrasound wave transmitted by the transmitting means is set as the first frequency or higher and at least 3 times of the first frequency. When the ultrasound wave in such band is transmitted, the low-frequency harmonic component of the nonlinear component may have higher frequency than the first frequency and therefore can be received by the receiver. Also, as most of the high-frequency harmonic components can be generated in the reception band, most of the high-frequency harmonic components can be received.
US08235898B2	Ultrasonic direct strain estimation using temporal and spatial correlation Strain is directly estimated in ultrasound elasticity imaging without computing displacement or resorting to spectral analysis. Conventional ultrasound elasticity imaging relies on calculating displacement and strain is computed from a derivative of the displacement. However, for typical parameter values used in ultrasound elasticity imaging, the displacement can be as large as a hundred times or displacement differences. If a tiny error in the calculation of displacement occurs, this could drastically affect the calculation of strain. By directly estimating strain, image quality is enhanced and the reduction in computational effort facilitates commercialization to aid in diagnosing disease or cancerous conditions.
US08235894B2	Emotional state determination method The invention provides an emotional state determination method capable of quantitatively and accurately measuring an emotional state of a human being without requiring a special measuring environment. At least one of oxy-hemoglobin densities and deoxy-hemoglobin densities in blood of a plurality of measurement regions of a human brain cortex of a subject 1 are measured in time series, respectively, using a near-infrared spectroscopy. Then, cross-correlation coefficients of plural sets of time-variable change data are computed for each time (for each sampling period). Each of the plural sets of the time-variable change data comprises two of the time-variable change data which are selected by permutations and combinations from among at least one of the time-variable change data on the measured oxy-hemoglobin densities and the time-variable change data on the measured deoxy-hemoglobin densities. Then, by analyzing time-variable change patterns of the computed cross-correlation coefficients of the plural sets of the time-variable change data using a predetermined determination method, the emotional state of the subject is quantitatively measured.
US08235890B2	Endoscopic vision system The present invention relates to an endoscopic visioning system and related method for both forward and backward viewing of a body lumen. According to an embodiment, the system includes an endoscope, a vision head including a light source and a vision chip on both a proximal and a distal side of the vision head, and an extension arm for moving the vision head away from and back toward the endoscope. Alternatively, the light source and vision chip may be contained in a distal end of the endoscope. In such an alternative embodiment, the vision head is a parabolic mirror mounted on the extension arm for reflecting images, for example, from behind the distal end of the endoscope to the vision chip in the distal end of the endoscope to permit, for example, a retrograde view of the surgical site entrance.
US08235889B2	Endoscope with air and water feeding means An endoscope comprises: an insertion portion to be inserted into a body cavity; an operation portion provided continuously from a proximal end side of the insertion portion; and a cylinder in which a gas to be fed to the distal end of the insertion portion is compressed and filled, the cylinder being detachably attached to the operation portion.
US08235888B2	System for guiding capsule medical device A system for guiding capsule medical device is provided with a capsule medical device, a magnetic guidance device, an operation input unit, a control device, and an image display device. The capsule medical device is includes therein a first and second imaging units that image images in imaging directions different from each other and a permanent magnet. The magnetic guidance device applies a magnetic field to the permanent magnet to magnetically guide the capsule medical device in a subject. The operation input unit receives operation information to operate magnetic guidance of the capsule medical device. The control device controls the magnetic guidance device to magnetically guide the capsule medical device in response to the operation information input through the operation input unit. The image display device displays a first in-vivo image of the subject imaged by the first imaging unit and a second in-vivo image of the subject imaged by the second imaging unit, and clearly shows which of the first and second in-vivo images is an operation target image at the time of the magnetic guidance of the capsule medical device.
US08235885B2	Ventricular assist device and related methods A method and system are provided for percutaneously gaining access to oxygenated blood with an anastomosis device and pumping such oxygenated blood to other arterial regions of the vascular system via an LVAD system. In one embodiment, a system may include an anastomosis device extending through an opening of the atrial septum. A filament may be coupled to the anastomosis device. A snare device may access the right atrium through the superior vena cava, grasp the filament, and withdraw the filament through the superior vena cava. The filament may then be used as a guide to direct a catheter, a conduit or some other structure into the right atrium of the heart via the superior vena cava. A flow path may be defined between the anastomosis device and an arterial location, such as in the aorta, such that at least some oxygenated blood may by-pass the left ventricle and be discharged into the aorta.
US08235877B2	Apparatus and method of gravity-assisted spinal stretching An apparatus and method for stretching and/or exercising a user's body through incremental, controlled inversion and lower body stretching, preferably performed in combination. The user lies atop an exercise table and restrains her lower body to a restraint movably coupled to the exercise table. The user preferably controls the actuation of a first actuator to incrementally pivot the exercise table about a support structure thereby inverting the user's body. Before or after actuation of the first actuator, but preferably concurrently therewith, the user controls the actuation of a second actuator to incrementally extend the restraint axially away from the exercise table thereby pulling the user's lower body away from the user's upper body. This combination of gravity and mechanical decompression produces greater results than either action by itself.
US08235874B2	Simulated rowing machine The present invention relates generally to rowing machines, and, more particularly, to such rowing machines with internal environments that duplicate actual Olympic-class rowing shells in terms of both dimensions and appearance, and simulate the specific rowing motion and technique that occurs on the water.
US08235869B2	Device for generating power from a locomotion energy associated with leg muscles acting across a joint A device for generating power from a locomotion energy associated with leg muscles acting across an ankle joint. The device including: a cuff worn on the leg; a shoe; an energy absorbing element operatively connected to the cuff and shoe for absorbing energy during one or more periods of a periodic motion of the joint in which energy is absorbed by the muscles.
US08235866B2	Method for actuating a gear step in an automatic or automated transmission of a motor vehicle and corresponding motor vehicle A method of actuating a gear step in an automatic or automated transmission of a motor vehicle. The gear step of the transmission and a parking lock, which immobilizes the vehicle, can be engaged as a function of a gear step (P, R, N, D) that can be selected by the driver via a controllable selector device, and as a function of other motor vehicle operating parameters. A separate operating device, which is in addition to the selector device, can activate a holding phase, in which the transmission is in a traction-free neutral position, independently of a predetermined gear step “Park” (P), “Reverse” (R), “Neutral” (N) and/or “Forward” (D) that is specified by the selector device, if the motor vehicle is at least almost at a standstill and at the same time, an ignition circuit acting on a drive motor of the motor vehicle is electrically interrupted.
US08235865B2	Automated transmission and method of controlling the same An automated gear shift transmission and method of controlling the same are described. The transmission is installed in a motor vehicle comprising several forward gears and at least one reverse gear and that allows choosing from several different driving modes by means of a driving mode selector lever. A forward gear is maintained in engagement in case of an uphill orientation of the motor vehicle when the parking mode is chosen. Instead of the forward gear, a reverse gear is maintained in engagement in case of a downhill orientation of the motor vehicle when the parking mode is chosen. This allows taking specific driving conditions or driving situations into account with relatively simple means.
US08235863B2	Device with a liquid reservoir for the growing of a surface A device having a tray defining at least one reservoir designed to contain a liquid, a platform, designed to be placed on the tray and to support a growing substrate, the platform including a flat main portion provided with wells having, at the bottom, an orifice communicating with the liquid contained in the tray, and means for carrying liquid in the reservoir, where a plurality of reinforcing walls protrude perpendicularly upwards from the main portion of the platform, where these walls have sufficient height so that, when the platform is placed on the tray, their top edge forms the highest portion of the device, and where the reinforcing walls are distributed on the surface of the platform so as to allow a distribution of the loads applied to this device.
US08235862B2	Planetary gear device A planetary gear has at least two, first and second gears having different numbers of teeth. One of sun outer gears or sun inner gears having two fundamental axes has at least two, third and fourth gears capable of respectively meshing with the first and second gears of the planetary gear and of rotating relative to each other. The ratio of the numbers of the teeth of the first gear and the third gear is different from that of the second gear and the fourth gear. The other of sun outer or sun inner gears having one fundamental shaft coaxially integrally has at least two, fifth and sixth gears respectively meshing with the first and second gears.
US08235860B2	Hydraulically shifted two-speed on-demand transfer case A transfer case includes an input shaft, first and second output shafts, and a planetary gearset including a sun gear, a ring gear and planet gears rotatably supported on a carrier coupled to the first output shaft. A collar is driven by the sun gear and selectively drives the carrier. The ring gear is moveable between first and second positions. The collar is coupled to the ring gear for movement therewith between first and second positions. The collar is operable in its first position to couple the sun gear to the carrier and operable in its second position to be released from engagement with the carrier. The ring gear is operable in its first position to be released from coupled engagement with a stationary member and operable in its second position to be coupled to the stationary member. A mechanism moves the ring gear between its first and second positions.
US08235859B2	Power transmission apparatus using planetary gear having a plurality of gear trains and methods of use thereof Provided is a power transmission apparatus using a planetary gear having a plurality of gear trains. The apparatus includes: a housing including a cover which is open or closed, and a speed change locking unit which locks and releases selectively one of ring gears; a carrier installed inside the housing; a planet gear set including three or more different sized planet gears; a ring gear set including ring gears; a sun gear set including sun gears meshed with external teeth of the planet gears and having an output shaft which outputs power to an outside of the housing; and an input shaft which is aligned coaxially to the output shaft and rotates the carrier by external force transmitted from the outside of the housing. The input shaft extends out of the housing by passing through the shaft extension.
US08235854B2	Power train for hybrid vehicle The present invention provides a power train for a hybrid vehicle that can achieve a fixed gear ratio mode where a vehicle is driven at a fixed gear ratio, such as shift stages of common transmission, only by the driving force of an engine without driving a motor generator, as well as an electric vehicle mode and a hybrid mode that are basic driving modes of a hybrid vehicle, such that it is possible to drive the vehicle with high efficiency in accordance with traveling conditions of the vehicle and improve fuel efficiency. Further, according to the power train for a hybrid vehicle, the number of gear teeth of a sun gear and a pinion of a planetary gear set, which is a component, can be changed in various ways, such that it is possible to more freely select the capacity of a clutch or a motor generator. Therefore, it is possible to design a compact transmission.
US08235851B2	Tensioning or deflector pulley in particular for the belt drive on an internal combustion engine The invention relates to a tensioning or deflector pulley, in particular for the belt drive on an internal combustion engine, essentially comprising a plastic or steel running pulley, formed by an inner hub ring, an outer running ring and a pulley disc, connecting both rings to each other, with a radial roller bearing fixed in the hub ring of the running pulley, made up of an inner bearing ring and an outer bearing ring with a number of rolling bodies running between the bearing rings in channeled running tracks, retained at regular separations from each other by a bearing cage with a seal to both sides of the roller bodies, by means of which the cavity, formed between the bearing rings and designed as a grease reservoir, is sealed.
US08235847B1	Racquet frames having a replaceable protective layer A racquet frame including a light-weight, semi-permanent protective layer covering portions of the racquet frame is described. The semi-permanent protective layer may be applied to significant portions of the racquet frame without substantially changing performance features of the racquet frame. The semi-permanent protective layer reduces cosmetic damage to the frame of the racquet and may be replaced from time to time as needed. Further, the protective layer can be graphically enhanced providing a level of graphical customization to the racquet frame.
US08235844B2	Hollow golf club head A hollow golf club incorporating a stress reducing feature including a crown located stress reducing feature, located on the crown of the club head, and a sole located stress reducing feature, located on the sole of the club head. The location and size of the stress reducing features, and their relationship to one another, play a significant role in reducing the peak stress seen on the golf club's face during an impact with a golf ball, as well as selectively increasing deflection of the face.
US08235842B2	Club heads with contoured back faces and methods of manufacturing the same Embodiments of club heads with contoured back faces and methods of manufacturing the same are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein.
US08235841B2	Golf club head or other ball striking device having impact-influencing body features A ball striking device, such as a golf club, includes a head with a face having an outer surface configured for striking a ball, a body connected to the face, and a channel located in the body. The channel is configured to influence the characteristics of the impact of a ball on the face, such as by flexing or compressing in response to the force of the impact, exerting a response or reaction force on the face, changing the motion or behavior of the face, and other manners. The head may also include a pair of channels that have a gap between them.
US08235840B2	Interchangeable shaft for a golf club A golf club (20) having a club head (22) with an interchangeable shaft (40) is disclosed herein. The golf club (20) includes a tube (44, 144) mounted in the club head (22), and a sleeve (46, 146) mounted on a tip end (50) of the shaft (40). The tube (44, 144) includes a tapered portion (60, 160) and a rotation prevention portion (62, 162). The sleeve (46, 146) has a frustoconical portion (72, 172) and a keyed portion (74, 174) that are respectively received in the tapered portion (60, 160) and the rotation prevention portion (62, 162) of the tube (44, 144). The golf club (20) further includes a mechanical fastener (48, 148) for removably securing the shaft (40) to the club head (22).
US08235836B2	Interchangeable shaft system A golf club incorporating an interchangeable shaft system includes a shaft, a shaft sleeve, a club head. The shaft sleeve is coupled to an end of the shaft and is received in a hosel included in the club head. The shaft sleeve is removably coupled to the club head. Hosel and shaft sleeve alignment features provide discreet orientations between the shaft and club head.
US08235834B2	Interchangeable shaft system A golf club incorporating an interchangeable shaft system includes a shaft, a shaft sleeve, a club head. The shaft sleeve is coupled to an end of the shaft and is received in a hosel included in the club head. The shaft sleeve is removably coupled to the club head. Hosel and shaft sleeve alignment features provide discreet orientations between the shaft and club head.
US08235831B2	Golf club A golf club comprises a shaft, a club head, and a connection assembly that allows the shaft to be easily disconnected from the club head. In particular embodiments, the connection assembly includes a removable hosel sleeve that allows a shaft to be supported a desired predetermined orientation relative to the club head. In this manner, the shaft loft and/or lie angle of the club can be adjusted without resorting to traditional bending of the shaft. In another embodiment, the club head has an adjustable sole that can be adjusted upwardly and downwardly relative to the strike face of the club head, which is effective to adjust the face angle of the club head.
US08235826B2	Power transfer surface for game pieces, toys, and other devices Various contact systems and methods for manufacturing and using such are disclosed herein. Examples of the contact systems include a surface with one set of pads biased at a first voltage level, and another set of pads biased at a second voltage level. Such a contact system can be used, for example, to transfer power to an electromechanical device disposed thereon. In one particular example, the electromechanical device can include a power storage element and two or more couplings. When one of the couplings contacts a pad biased at the first voltage level, and another of the couplings contacts a pad biased at the second voltage level, a circuit is completed where some derivative of the differential between the first voltage level and the second voltage level is placed across the power storage element. Completion of the circuit causes the power storage element to charge. Power can be drawn from the power storage element to operate the electromechanical device.
US08235824B2	Composite tabletop for electronic game tables Composite tabletops for electronic game tables are described. In one implementation, the composite tabletop has a channeled core layer sandwiched between a bottom layer and top layer. The channeled core layer is constructed of foam, so that the foam forms enclosure spaces for player stations, displays, user-interface hardware, central control/server hardware, and cooling equipment. The foam is also shaped to form duct spaces between each player station and a central space in the channeled core layer. The ducts can be used to route wires between each player station and the central space and to direct cooling air to or from each player station. The channeled core layer reduces time and labor during manufacture of an electronic game table and results in an electronic game table that is more lightweight for shipping, absorbs noise generated by enclosed hardware and electronics, absorbs shocks, and optimizes cooling of enclosed components.
US08235817B2	Object based observation Embodiments of the present invention provide a library of video related to game play involving the use of particular objects. By observing game play of users in a game play environment, determinations may be made as to users who excel at the use of a particular object. Video of game play related to these users and a particular object may be created, cataloged, and stored for later use by users that lack proficiency with that object. By observing video of game players with particular skill as to an object, less skilled players may improve their game play thereby avoiding frustration with a game, which may lead to a loss of interest. Acquisition and proffering of video may be facilitated through the use of an analytics server or functional software module that observes game play and identifies players of particular skill or lack thereof.
US08235816B2	Configuration of gaming machines based on gaming machine location A method and apparatus for tracking and determining a location of a gaming machine or other item within a casino or hotel is disclosed. In one embodiment the method and apparatus utilizes a transmitter or emitter to provide a tracking signal that may be tracked by one or more receivers or detectors. It is contemplated that the transmitter or emitter connect to a gaming machine. As the gaming machine is relocated within the casino its location is monitored. The one or more receivers may communicate with a host computer or other data processing system to generate location data regarding the gaming machine in relation to other aspects of the casino. Based on the location information generated by the location monitoring and tracking system, other aspects of machine operation may be controlled and additional features dependant on the machine location information may be enabled.
US08235813B2	Gaming machine having auxiliary lighting feature A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game comprises a pendant lighting assembly coupled to the gaming machine cabinet. The pendant lighting assembly includes a light source mounted to the gaming machine cabinet and at least one light conduit mounted to the gaming machine cabinet. The at least one light conduit is adjustable to direct and redirect light from the light source to one or more locations external to the gaming machine cabinet. The color and/or timing of the light directed at each location may be synchronized with events occurring in the wagering game.
US08235811B2	Using player information in wagering game environments Systems and methods for using player information in wagering game environments are described herein. In one embodiment a method includes receiving a first set of player information, where the first set of player information indicates casino activities of a player. The method can also include analyzing the first set of player information and a second set of player information to determine preferences and tendencies associated with the player. The method can also include providing an indication of the preferences and tendencies to wagering game network devices.
US08235808B2	Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines and a plurality of bonus awards. The central server monitors wagers on the gaming machines. Based at least in part on the wagers the central server determines when bonus events will occur and which gaming machine(s) will provide the bonus awards. In one embodiment, the central server determines which gaming machine will provide a primary bonus award and any secondary bonus awards. In one embodiment, the number of secondary bonus awards is determined based on the number of active gaming machines. The selected gaming machine then determines a component of or the amount of the bonus award to be provided to the gaming machine selected by the central server.
US08235806B2	Raffle game system and method An automated raffle game and method making use of prize pools, the prize pools having elements, the elements representing one of: winning prizes; or, both winning prizes and no-win (0 value) prizes. Raffle tickets are associated with a prize pool. Upon closure of the game, either by a time-out or by number of tickets sold, a number of elements are taken from the pool. The number of elements taken from the pool is directly related to the number of tickets associated with the pool and further depends on which type of pool is being used (one having only win-elements or both win and 0-value elements). The results are sent to the player terminal, where a player may simply take a winning voucher or ticket, or, may chose to view an entertainment display.
US08235802B2	Slot machine with insurance function and control method thereof A slot machine of the present invention comprises: a symbol display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbols; and a controller, the controller programmed to execute the processing of: (A) executing a normal game in which the plurality of symbols are variably displayed and then stop-displayed by the symbol display device after game media have been BET in number equal to or less than a previously set maximum number of BETs, and a payout value is determined according to the stop-displayed symbols or a combination thereof; (B) shifting a mode from a non-insurance mode to an insurance mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media have been inserted; (C) counting the number of normal games played after the mode has been shifted to the insurance mode, in the insurance mode; and (D) paying out a predetermined number of game media and also conducting a free game that is executed even without a game medium BET thereon, when the number of normal games counted in the processing (C) has reached a specific number.
US08235796B2	Gaming apparatus and method of operating the same A gaming apparatus and a method of operating the same are disclosed. The gaming apparatus comprises a display configured to display a plurality of reel images and a processor operatively coupled to the display. The processor is operable to determine an arrangement of symbols for each of the reel images before starting each of games, by selecting symbols to be set on symbol stop positions of the reel image from discrete symbol candidates based on selection probabilities associated with the discrete symbol candidates respectively. The processor is also operable to control the display to display the reel images based on the determined arrangement of symbols in response to operation of a player.
US08235793B2	Prize awarding mechanism for a gaming machine or system of linked gaming machines Systems and methods for use with a gaming machine that, in response to the staking of a wager by a player, is arranged to randomly determine an outcome of a game, display on a display representations of the outcome, and award an award if a winning outcome occurs, wherein the player can stake a variable sized wager on the occurrence of a winning outcome, the systems and methods including varying the probability of selecting the outcome associated with a special prize dependent on the size of the wager staked by the player and/or varying the probability of one or more other prizes that are alternatives to the special prize.
US08235789B2	Push-button with integrated or adjacent moveable outcome indicator A push-button assembly for a gaming terminal implementing a wagering game is provided. The push-button assembly has a push-button actuated by a touch from a player of the wagering game. An outcome indicator indicates a randomly selected outcome in response to the push-button being actuated.
US08235787B2	Method for providing a playing card game simulation based on bingo game results A method includes displaying playing card face representations at an electronic player station. The displayed playing card face representations include card face representations that are included in a group of card face representations that has been assigned to the player in response to a bingo pattern achieved by the player in a bingo game. The player may then select one or more of the displayed card face representations to be replaced with one or more card face representations that are also included in the assigned group but have been concealed from the player. A prize is ultimately awarded to the player based on the card face representations remaining in the player's hand after replacement of the selected card face representations. This prize represents the player's prize for achieving the bingo pattern, but is based on the player's card hand produced after the player makes their selections and replaces the desired cards.
US08235780B2	Card game system and device having supplemental awards based on consecutive non-terminating outcomes A card game includes a plurality of rounds playable upon at least one base wager and at least one supplemental wager. Each one of the rounds results in an outcome, where a base award is associated with at least one of the outcomes. A pattern condition is fulfillable when a pattern of the outcomes corresponds to one of a plurality of designated patterns. Different supplemental awards are provided based on the fulfillment of the pattern condition.
US08235778B2	Game apparatus, game system and game progression control method Disclosed is a game system capable of introducing a distinctive feature into each of a processing of designating offensive and defensive locations and a processing of determining a competition result so as to provide a game having a high level of playability. The game system comprises a plurality of game apparatuses each equipped with a touch panel 10 and a monitor 3, and connected to each other via a network. Each of the game apparatuses includes an image display control section 302 adapted to display a strike zone image (SZ image) on the monitor 3, and a setup section 304 adapted, based on manipulation information accepted from the touch panel 10, to set up a pitch location (or swing location) within the SZ image, and set up a shape of a first mark image on the basis of the setup location. The image display control section 302 is also adapted to display the first mark image on the SZ image in a superimposed manner, and, after completion of the setup processing by the setup section 304, display, onto the SZ image, a second mark image for the swing location (or pitch location) which is received from an opponent's game apparatus. The game apparatus further includes a batting result-setting section 307 adapted to set a batting result depending on a degree of overlapping between the first and second mark images.
US08235777B2	Fully articulated and comprehensive air and fluid distribution, metering and control method and apparatus for primary movers, heat exchangers, and terminal flow devices The described method and apparatus pertains namely to the HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) industry, though its many functions extend into any and all forms of air-fluid movement, metering, distribution, and containment. Essentially, the scope of operation of the method and apparatus encompasses all forms of scientific and engineering measurement dealing with fluid dynamics, fluid statics, fluid mechanics, thermal dynamics, and mechanical engineering as they pertain to precise, articulated control of air-fluid distribution and delivery. The described method and apparatus offers complete, comprehensive, and correct utilization of air-fluid movers and terminal devices under unique sensor logic control, from initial lab testing stages through to equipment cataloguing, selection, design and construction of any and all air-fluid distribution systems in entirety, whereas previously there was no such cohesive, total and terminal method of control for these systems or their components.
US08235771B2	Method and apparatus for honing a workpiece and a workpiece A method for honing a workpiece by passing a workpiece through a hone tool having a plurality of abrasive surfaces configured to remove a portion of all exterior machining surfaces of the workpiece as it is passed through the hone tool, the exterior machining surfaces being non-uniform and wherein the hone tool is configured to hone all of the exterior machining surfaces simultaneously as workpiece is passed through the hone tool. An assembly for honing a workpiece, the assembly having a plurality of hone tools each having abrasive surfaces configured to remove a portion of exterior non-uniform surfaces of a workpiece pushed through the hone tool, wherein the hone tool is configured to surround the entire periphery of the workpiece being passed therethrough.
US08235769B2	Electron-beam-assisted EEM method To provide an electron beam assisted EEM method that can realize ultraprecision machining of workpieces, including glass ceramic materials, in which at least two component materials different from each other in machining speed in a machining process are present in a refined mixed state and the surface state is not even, to a surface roughness of 0.2 to 0.05 nm RMS. The EEM method comprises a working process in which a workpiece and chemically reactive fine particles are allowed to flow along the working face to remove atoms on the working face chemically bonded to the fine particles together with the fine particles through chemical interaction between the fine particles and the working face interface. The workpiece comprises at least two component materials present in a refined mixed state and different from each other in machining speed in the machining process. After the exposure of the workpiece in its working face to an electron beam to conduct modification so that the machining speed of the surface layer part in the working face is substantially even, ultraprecision smoothening is carried out by working process.
US08235768B2	Cooler with ground heated plane and grinding method and apparatus thereof A method for making heated plane of a cooler obtain better flatness and roughness includes a grinder with a grinding plate and a fixture. Then, the cooler is arranged onto the fixture. Next, the abrasive is injected into the gap between the grinding plate and the heated plane, making the fixture press and clamp the cooler in a way, such that the heated plane of the cooler contacts the abrasive closely. Finally, the grinding plate is rotated to make at least one grinding process to the heated plane, making the heated plane obtain a surface with better roughness and flatness, further enhancing the contact tightness between the heated plane and a heating element, and therefore promoting the thermally conductive efficiency between the cooler and the heating element.
US08235765B2	Composite fabric laminate for making an undergarment Feminine undergarments, particularly brassieres and other body shaping garments that are fabricated using a multi-layered fabric laminate that is formed by gluing multiple fabric layers together, preferably to permit body shaping garments to be substantially fabricated from a single main piece of material or blank cut from the multi-layered fabric laminate and which has finished edges which do not require separate binding or narrow edge finishing, together with a method of making such garments, both on an individual, batch basis, as well as an automated process for making the fabric laminate and multiple garments on a continuous basis, are disclosed. Multi-layer composite fabric laminate materials wherein different portions of at least one fabric layer thereof are made of different fabrics, and a method for making them, are also disclosed.
US08235761B2	Apparatus and methods for resizing electronic displays Apparatus and methods for resizing COTS AMLCDs or other electronic displays, as well as resized displays made using these apparatus and methods, are provided. The electronic display includes a front plate, a back plate, a perimeter seal spacing the front and back plates apart, and image-generating medium contained in an area between the front and back plates. A target portion of the display may be identified and separated from an excess portion of the display, e.g., by cutting and breaking the plates of the display, thereby creating an exposed edge along the target portion. The plates of the target portion are pressed towards one another, e.g., to stabilize or compress the target portion. An adhesive is applied to the exposed edge, and the pressure is released to draw the adhesive between the plates along the exposed edge.
US08235760B2	Paddle with selectable blade angle A paddle for use in watersports is provided with shaft halves and blades at the end of each shaft half with a selectable offset angle between the blades. A joint connecting the shaft halves may include an interlocking coupling that maintains the offset angle of the blades, and that may allow a change in the offset angle of the blades. A biasing member may hold the interlocking coupling in the use configuration. The shaft halves may be moved axially apart to change the offset angle of the blades. All mechanisms for switching the interlocking coupling between the use configuration and the selection configuration may be located within the shaft halves. A retaining clip may be coupled between the first and second shaft halves to allow the selection configuration while preventing disassembly of the first and second shaft halves. A disassembly control can be provided independently of the angle selection.
US08235756B2	Low profile plugs Apparatus, systems, and methods for assembling a plug with a low profile for use with an electronic device are provided. In some embodiments, a 4-pin plug may include a diameter similar to the diameter of a 3-pin plug. In some embodiments, the fourth pin may be coupled to the plug such that a portion of the fourth pin may be coupled to any suitable device on an internal surface of the plug. In some embodiments, the fourth pin may dive into the plug at the same depth as one of the other three pins of the plug. The pins within the plug may be coupled (e.g., soldered) at the ends that may emerge underneath an overmold to any other suitable device to form electrical connections. The plug may be used to transmit audio or transfer data to a user of the electronic device.
US08235754B2	Terminal block having plurality of first and second terminals fixed to a base by screws A terminal block, configured to be connected to a plurality of first card edge terminals arranged at a peripheral edge part of a first main surface of a substrate and a plurality of second card edge terminals arranged at a peripheral edge of one of a second main surface of the substrate and the first main surface of the substrate, has a base formed with an insertion port to which the peripheral edge of the substrate is inserted, and a plurality of first and second terminals arranged on the base. Each of the plurality of first terminals has a first supporting portion arranged on the first main surface side of the substrate and extended in a normal direction of the first and second main surfaces of the substrate inserted to the insertion port, and a first contacting portion formed from the first supporting portion to contact the first card edge terminals.
US08235752B2	Connector A connector has an inner housing with a cavity for housing a terminal fitting, an outer housing assembled displaceably to the inner housing and a rubber plug. The rubber plug has a sealing portion, a vibration reducing portion and a vibration absorbing portion. The sealing portion is mounted fixedly on a rear end portion of the terminal fitting and is brought into close contact with an inner peripheral surface of the cavity. The vibration reducing portion is fit in a holding hole formed in the outer housing and thus is displaced with the outer housing. The vibration absorbing portion has a smaller thickness than the vibration reducing portion and connects the sealing portion to the vibration reducing portion. The vibration absorbing portion is outside the holding hole and in front of the holding hole.
US08235750B2	Coaxial inspection connector and receptacle This disclosure provides a coaxial inspection connector that is connectable to and disconnectable from a receptacle, the receptacle including an external conductor, a fixed terminal, and a movable terminal that is in pressed contact with the fixed terminal from below. Housing includes an end portion that contacts the external conductor. A probe extends vertically in the end portion. The probe is insulated from the housing, and includes a plunger. The plunger includes a plunger body and a tip. The plunger body contacts the fixed terminal when the external conductor contacts the end portion. The tip is an insulating portion disposed at a lower end of the plunger. The tip pushes the movable terminal downward and separates the movable terminal from the fixed terminal when the external conductor contacts the end portion.
US08235747B2	Device and method of installing capacitors on a utility company's power meter The Invention relates to the field of power factor correction in general. Specifically, the Invention comprises a device for insertion between the power meter of an electrical utility supply and the load which is further comprised of an electrical capacitance that is sized by the method of the Invention to improve the electrical power factor of the system as measured at the meter. The benefits of the Invention include increased power factor, lower power consumption, lower energy costs, and ease of installation due to its novel plug-in packaging approach wherein a utility meter adapter embodiment of the present invention containing power factor correcting circuit capacitor(s) plugs between a utility meter and its meter socket. The device of the invention installs between the power meter and power meter receptacle without requiring significant effort or time for installation.
US08235746B2	USB connector structure A USB connector structure for connecting an electronic device to a computer includes a cable, a first plug group and a second plug group. The first plug group and the second plug group are connected to opposite ends of the cable. The first plug group includes a first standard USB plug and a first mini USB plug electrically connected to the first standard USB plug. The second plug group is connected to another end of the cable, and includes a second standard USB plug and a second mini USB plug electrically connected to the second standard USB plug. Any two of the first standard USB plugs, the first mini USB plug, the second standard USB plug and the second mini USB plug can be respectively electrically connected with the electronic device and the computer.
US08235745B1	Remote release of a cable connector An apparatus for remotely releasing a connector, e.g., an RJ-45 connector, is described. Embodiments of the invention allow a user to release a cable comprising a connector from a connector jack when the connector jack is difficult to reach. The invention may be particularly useful to release cables from devices comprising an array of connector jacks.
US08235743B2	Connector-mount having a locking piece to secure a connector to a bracket A locking piece (51) posturing like a cantilever is disposed on a periphery of a connector (20) by extending the locking piece (51) forward from a rear side thereof along a direction in which the connector (20) is inserted into a mounting hole (12) of a bracket (10). A locking projection (55) which elastically locks a to-be-locked plate (13) formed at an upper side of the locking piece (51) by bending the bracket (10) rearward from an edge of the mounting hole (12) is formed by striking a part of the locking piece (51). When a force acts on the connector (20) in a removal direction, a tensile load acts on the locking piece (51). Therefore the locking piece (51) hardly deforms. Thereby it is possible to prevent the connector (20) from slipping off the bracket (10).
US08235742B2	Connector with sliding cam A connector having a sliding cam that prevents twisting when mating with a mating connector. The connector having an inner housing, an inner housing, a slider receiving slot, and a slider. The inner housing includes a contact positioned in the inner housing, while the outer housing is attached to the inner housing. The slider receiving slot is positioned in the outer housing, and the slider includes a plurality of multiple cam grooves with cam pin insertion openings into which a plurality of cam pins positioned along a side surface of a mating connector are inserted. The slider is slidably received in the slider receiving slot. A plurality of temporary mating projections are positioned along the cam pin insertion openings, wherein a height of one of the plurality of temporary mating projections is higher than a height of another of the plurality of temporary mating projections.
US08235740B2	Electrical connector An electrical connector includes a plastic base and an engaging member. The base has a longitudinally extended connection slot to be connected to a circuit board having one side formed with a notch. The engaging member disposed on one side of the base has an elastic arm, which has a handle, a guide-in inclined surface, an engaging portion and an elastic member. When the circuit board is inserted into the slot, the one side thereof presses the guide-in inclined surface to make the arm elastically move outwardly. When the arm elastically moves back, the engaging portion engages with the notch. When the handle is moved to make the arm elastically move outwardly and to disengage the engaging portion from the notch, the elastic member can stop the engaging member from elastically moving back to engage with the notch, so that the circuit board can be conveniently taken out.
US08235737B2	Light string system A lamp system used in a light string system comprises a light assembly and a socket assembly. The light assembly comprises a light source, a base in communication with the light source, and a bypass activating system. The socket assembly comprises a socket adapted to receive the light assembly and a bypass mechanism having a first position and a second position. The bypass mechanism is in the first position when the light assembly is not seated in the socket assembly. When the bypass mechanism in the first position, current flows across the bypass mechanism. When the light assembly is inserted into the socket assembly, the bypass activating system of the light assembly moves the bypass mechanism into the second position, and current flows through the light source instead of the bypass mechanism.
US08235731B1	Connector module and patch panel A substrate operable to construct a male-type connector, a female-type connector, and/or a multi-outlet module. The substrate has a plurality of circuits and an edge card male connector including contacts for each circuit. For each circuit, the substrate has a ground plane connected to one or more of the contacts for the circuit. The ground planes may be implemented as localized, electrically floating, isolated ground planes. The substrate may include multiple layers upon which portions of the circuits and ground planes may be disposed. The ground plane corresponding to each of the plurality of circuits may be located in close proximity to conductive elements of the circuit so as to provide a localized common ground to which energy can be conveyed from the conductive elements to thereby limit an amount of energy radiated outwardly from the conductive elements to surrounding conductors.
US08235730B2	Substrate connector A substrate connector utilizes a plurality of conductive terminals, each of which are held in a single terminal-receiving cavity of a substrate. The terminals of the connector have a hook-shape with a retention portions in the form of a fork having a central slot and two free ends spaced apart from the retention portion and which protrude out of their cavities for contacting contact pads on opposing circuit boards. The retention portions engage abutments formed in the cavities to hold the terminals in place but do so in a manner that permits the terminals to move in both the vertical and horizontal directions.
US08235724B2	Dynamically adaptive scheduling system Methods and systems for providing a lifestyle companion system are provided. The lifestyle companion system can provide a platform to conduct a user interview. Based on the user interview responses, the system can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules. During performance of activities, the system can provide audio and/or visual cues related to the activities and collect data indicative of the user's performance. Based on the collected data, the system can dynamically adapt the user's goals and/or activities the user is performing or will perform. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system of the present invention can be applied to fitness, nutrition, and/or medical modules. The system also can be used to facilitate synchronous group activities.
US08235722B2	Method of producing a dental prosthetic item, and dental prosthetic item thus produced A method of producing a dental prosthetic item 3, wherein the dental prosthetic item 3 is attached, via an interior surface 5, to another dental prosthetic item 2 by means of an adhesive 9, and for adhesive 9 there is provided a gap 8 disposed between an interior surface of the dental prosthetic item 3 and the other dental prosthetic item 2, wherein interior surface 5 of the dental prosthetic item is designed to make allowance for the visual properties of adhesive 9. Furthermore, a dental prosthetic item 3 is produced on the above lines and a blank 41 for the production of such a dental prosthetic item 3 and the other dental prosthetic item 2 is disclosed.
US08235716B2	Method for using radio frequency identification microchips in orthodontic brackets The following invention is an apparatus and method for quickly determining the type of bracket implanted on patient's tooth. A radio frequency identification (RFID) microchip is coupled to or in an orthodontic bracket. The bracket or series of brackets are then implanted on the patient's teeth as required. With the RFID in or on the bracket, the orthodontist or staff uses a scanner to read the brackets. The information read by the scanner allows the staff to select the correct corresponding bracket needed for replacement from an inventory. Confirmation of the correct selection is obtained by another scan from another scanner located in the bracket holding device. Not only does this process ensure that the correct replacement bracket is received by the patient, but also provides the orthodontist and staff with a real-time tracking of inventory supply.
US08235715B2	UV and chemical cure blocking dental template A dental template formed of an ultraviolet light-blocking or chemical cure inhibition material configured to restrict the curing of excess adhesive flash during the bonding of orthodontic devices to teeth. The dental template is configured to be positioned over a patient's teeth to guide placement of brackets on the teeth. The brackets are secured to the teeth using adhesive, which is cured by exposure to ultraviolet light or chemically cured. The dental template at least partially blocks ultraviolet light or restricts the chemical cure process from fully curing the adhesive underneath the template so that any exposed adhesive “flash” underneath the template can be easily cleaned after the template is removed from the teeth. The adhesive securing the brackets to the teeth can be fully cured after the “flash” is cleaned.
US08235714B2	Convertible buccal tube orthodontic bracket An orthodontic bracket having a base attachable to a tooth surface, with the base extending outward away from the tooth surface and forming an archwire slot sized to receive an archwire therewithin, and a removable archwire slot cover coined onto the base so as to cover the archwire slot and enable the bracket to function as a buccal tube when the cover is attached. The cover may be removed from the bracket base without removal of the bracket from the tooth surface so as to provide an open archwire slot for continued orthodontic treatment subsequent to removal of the removable archwire slot cover.
US08235700B2	Mold for forming an optical fiber connector A mold for molding optical fiber connector includes a core pin, a cavity mold and a sprue hole defined on the sidewall of the cavity mold. The core pin is used to mold the blind hole of the optical fiber connector. The cavity mold and the core mold cooperatively define a molding cavity for forming the optical fiber connector. A support block is configured in the molding cavity. The molding cavity includes a lens forming portion used to mold the lens and the support block configures a cutout to support the blind hole forming portion to make the blind hole forming portion align with the lens forming portion during the molding process, the opening of the cutout is towards the sprue hole.
US08235699B2	Honeycomb structure-forming die and method for manufacturing the same A honeycomb structure-forming die 1 has a die substrate 22 including a first plate-shaped member 23 having back holes 6 for introducing a raw forming material and a second plate-shaped member 24 having slits 5 for forming the material into a lattice shape. The first plate-shaped member 23 has columnar portions 8 where at least a part is zoned by a slit-shaped groove portion 7 corresponding with a shape of the slit 5 on a bonding face side 28 where the first plate-shaped member 23 is bonded with the second plate-shaped member 24. In the columnar portions 8, the ratio (L/T) of the height L of the columnar portions 8 to the minimum width T in an end face on the bonding face side 28 is within 1/3 to 3.5. Thus constituted die realizes high formability, and two plate-shaped members constituting the die substrate are hardly peeled from each other.
US08235690B2	Scroll compressor with improved oil separation from refrigerant gas There is disclosed a scroll compressor capable of improving the oil separating device of a refrigerant gas discharged from a scroll compression element to effectively suppress the amount of oil to be discharged through a discharge tube. The scroll compressor has, in a sealed container, a scroll compression element, a motor element which drives the scroll compression element, and a support frame having a bearing portion which keeps a shaft of the motor element, and provided with a communication path. The scroll compressor further includes a shield plate which extends from the support frame to the motor element side to surround the periphery of the bearing portion, and a guide member provided at an outlet of the communication path to guide the discharged gas in the direction of the shield plate.
US08235687B2	Electric compressor An electric compressor incorporating an electric motor for driving a compression mechanism and containing, in a compressor housing, a joint between an external terminal for supplying power to the electric motor and an end of a wire from a stator of the electric motor. The electric compressor has a vibration proof structure mechanically preventing at least one of disconnection, electrical instantaneous interruption, and damage on an insulating member that are caused by vibration at the joint and/or the vicinity of the joint. The vibration proof structure can adopt various structures. When such a mechanical vibration proof structure is provided in the electric compressor, vibration proof performance can be enhanced at the joint of a motor terminal with good productivity achieved, and occurrence of disconnection and instantaneous interruption of the terminal joint can be prevented.
US08235686B2	Portable fan Two embodiments of a portable fan for use in the cup holder of a recreational vehicle such as a golf cart are shown and described. In the first embodiment, a bottle-shaped body has a cup-shaped lower portion separated from the body by a shoulder which acts as a limit stop when inserting the base into a cup holder. A shrouded impeller is pivotally connected to the top of the base and exhibits an integral carry handle. The entire structure is made of a suitable plastic such as high density polyethylene. In the second embodiment, the impeller is located intervally of the body for safety and a bell-shaped outlet directs air through a diffuser with circular louvers.
US08235681B2	Opposing swash plate piston pump/motor A first swash plate (30) and a second swash plate (40) are disposed on either side of a cylinder block (4), and a plurality of cylinders (6) are disposed in the cylinder block (4). A first piston (8) and a second piston (9) are inserted opposite to each other in each cylinder (6) such that the first piston (8) slides on the first swash plate (30) and the second piston (9) slides on the second swash plate (40). By providing a servo mechanism (33) that tilts the first swash plate (30) and a tilt linking mechanism (40, 70) that tilts the second swash plate (40) in conjunction with the tilting of the first swash plate (30), tilt angles of the two swash plates (30, 40) can be controlled by the single servo mechanism (33).
US08235679B2	Cam bearing flow control for rotating cam ring vane pump A pump assembly includes a housing having a chamber in communication with an inlet and an outlet. A rotating ring, variable displacement vane pump is received in the chamber. The pump, and particularly the rotating ring, is supported by a fluid bearing in the chamber. A control is provided for selectively altering fluid flow to the bearing in response to one of hydrodynamic bearing pressure, boost flow pressure, and the pump stroke.
US08235675B2	System and method for providing a thermal transpiration gas pump using a nanoporous ceramic material A system and method for using an element made of porous ceramic materials such as zeolite to constrain the flow of gas molecules to the free molecular or transitional flow regime. A preferred embodiment of the gas pump may include the zeolite element, a heater, a cooler, passive thermal elements, and encapsulation. The zeolite element may be further comprised of multiple types of porous matrix sub-elements, which may be coated with other materials and may be connected in series or in parallel. The gas pump may further include sensors and a control mechanism that is responsive to the output of the sensors. The control mechanism may further provide the ability to turn on and off certain heaters in order to reverse the flow in the gas pump. In one embodiment, the pump may operate by utilizing waste heat from an external system to induce transpiration driven flow across the zeolite. In another embodiment, the pump may selectively drive and direct gas molecules depending on the molecular size and the interaction between the gas molecule and the zeolite element.
US08235674B1	Paint circulation pump control system A paint circulation pump control system having a plurality of pneumatic or hydraulic pump assemblies that operate at different outputs in response to load changes on a paint application system is provided. Each pump assembly includes a first regulator and second regulator having different pressure output settings selectively connecting a compressed air source with a pump. A control valve in each pump assembly is responsive to a single switch to connect the compressed air source to the pumps via the first or second regulators. When the switch directs a change, all of the pump assemblies simultaneously change the regulator that is connecting the pump with the compressed air source.
US08235667B2	Swashplateless rotorcraft with fault tolerant linear electric actuator An electric linear actuator is disposed to pitch a blade of a hingeless, swashplateless rotor in rotary motion. This actuator can be equipped with an electric motor advantageously made fault tolerant by winding the motor for at least 4, 5, 6, 8, or even 12 phases. Rotational motion of the electric motor is preferably converted to a translatory linear actuator output motion using a planetary roller screw coupling the rotation of the motor with pitch of the blade. The output link of the actuator can be advantageously coupled to the planetary roller screw using an internal spherical joint providing an isolated load path through the actuator. It is contemplated that a preferred rotorcraft having an electric blade pitch actuator might also be equipped with a controller that could provide the vehicle with individual blade control, in which the pitch of any rotor blade can be controlled independently of the others.
US08235665B2	Sculptured throat spool A sculpted throat spool of a tension-torsion strap assembly is disclosed. Using the sculpted throat spool minimizes the stress riser typically present at the edge of the spool when a tension-torsion strap is articulated.
US08235664B2	Liner in a cooling channel of a turbine blade A turbine blade with a blade root, an aerofoil, at least one cooling passage arranged in the turbine blade and extending from the blade root to the aerofoil, and a liner arranged in the at least one cooling passage is provided. The liner protects the cooling passage against corrosion, especially type II hot corrosion.
US08235663B2	Article and ultrasonic inspection method and system therefor A method, system and article adapted for ultrasonic inspection of the article. The article is disk-shaped and has axially-oriented slots circumferentially spaced from each other at a periphery of the article, with members secured at the periphery of the article such that each member has a retention feature that extends into and engages a corresponding one of the slots so as to secure the members to the slots. Cavities are defined by and between the slots and radially-inward extremities of the retention features within the slots. The inspection method and system entail the use of at least one ultrasonic transducer placed within at least a first of the cavities defined by a first of the slots. The transducer is configured and oriented to perform a diagnostic technique on the article by emitting an ultrasonic signal that intersects an interior surface of a second of the slots immediately adjacent the first slot.
US08235661B2	Turbine blade The present invention provides a turbine blade that is exposed to a high temperature atmosphere at relatively high temperatures and to a low temperature atmosphere at relatively low temperatures, including: a concave-curve-like pressure surface that is concaved along a flow direction of fluid; a convex-curve-like suction surface that is convexed along the flow direction of the fluid; and a concave and convex formation device which causes a concave and convex portion along the flow of the fluid to appear on the suction surface when the turbine blade is exposed to the low temperature atmosphere, and which turns the suction surface into a smooth surface along a convex curve surface of the suction surface when the turbine blade is exposed to the high temperature atmosphere. With this construction, it is possible to reduce a pressure loss of the turbine blade at high Reynolds numbers in the low temperature atmosphere without increasing a pressure loss of the turbine blade at low Reynolds numbers in the high temperature atmosphere.
US08235657B2	Turbojet for aircraft A turbojet for an aircraft includes an engine housed in a nacelle and a thermal exchanger that can be traversed by a hot fluid designed to be cooled by thermal exchange with a cold fluid external to the thermal exchanger. The thermal exchanger is disposed in an internal volume of the nacelle, between an internal wall of the nacelle and an external wall of the engine, in such a way as to present two thermal exchange surfaces in the flow of the air stream from the turbojet. The disclosed embodiments also relate to an aircraft equipped with such a jet turbine engine.
US08235654B2	Compressor stator with partial shroud A gas-turbine axial compressor has a casing 3 and a rotatable shaft 6, which form an annular duct, in which at least one stator 2 and one rotor 4 are arranged. A shroud 21 is arranged at a free end of the stator 2 vanes, which extends over part of the axial length of the stator 2. A rotor platform 23 of at least one rotor 4 extends axially beneath a further part of the axial length of the stator 2, at which no shroud 21 is arranged.
US08235652B2	Turbine nozzle segment A turbine nozzle segment includes a band having a flowpath side and a non-flowpath side and an enclosure disposed on the non-flowpath side of the band. A plenum may be defined between the band and the enclosure and a discourager may extend from the enclosure.
US08235645B2	Carriage assembly The present invention relates to a carriage assembly having a housing, having a cam disc and having a carriage which is guided in a linearly movable fashion, with the cam disc and carriage being operatively connected to one another. In order to specify a carriage assembly which is of the smallest possible construction, the invention proposes that a cam disc is arranged orthogonally with respect to a rear side of the housing.
US08235643B2	Long axis component loader A component loader orients a component along its long-axis for transfer from a rotatable load plate. The load plate has an outer peripheral edge and an upper surface inclined from a horizontal plane. Slots on the upper surface terminate at the outer edge of the load plate and are sized to receive at least one elongate chip lying with its long axis perpendicular to the axis of the load plate and in parallel with radius of the load plate. An outer wall conforms to the curvature of the outer edge and is mounted adjacent thereto. A transfer slot extends axially from and into the upper surface of the load plate on outer ends of the slots and terminates at the outer edge of the load plate. Each transfer slot is shaped so that a chip descending therein from a slot has a ninety degree rotation about the long axis.
US08235636B2	Spring-loaded kinematic adjustment screw A precision kinematic adjustment screw for optical mounts controls the position of the stage plate relative to the base plate so that the position is stable, consistent and reproducible. Use of a spring-loaded spherical member that is free to rotate independent of the screw minimizes friction between the proximal end of the screw and the contact surface of the stage plate and reduces the potential for deformation and/or abrasion of the contact surface.
US08235634B2	Cage nut assembly A cage nut assembly is provided for retaining a nut within a cage's nut capture region defined by a base with a hole substantially in its center, two lateral truss integral with the base and perpendicular to each other, and two upwardly extending arms also integral with the base. The two upwardly extending arms form a C-shaped head at the distal end that extend over the nut capture region. Thus a nut disposed in said cage is substantially flush with the base of said cage. A multiple cage nut assembly is provided for retaining a nut within cage's plurality of nut capture regions. One such nut capture region being defined by a base with a hole substantially in its center, two lateral truss integral with the base and perpendicular to each other, and two upwardly extending arms also integral with the base. The two upwardly extending arms form a C-shaped head at the distal end that extend over the nut capture region. Thus a nut disposed in said cage is substantially flush with the base of said cage. At least one other nut capture region being defined by a base with a hole substantially in its center, two lateral truss integral with the base and perpendicular to each other, and two upwardly extending arms also integral with the base. The two upwardly extending arms form a head with a bearing surface at the distal end that extend over the nut capture region. Thus a nut disposed in said cage is substantially flush with the base of said cage.
US08235633B2	Tie down devices for securing a vehicle The inventive subject matter relates to novel tie down devices for securing a vehicle to a surface. In one preferred aspect of the inventive subject matter, the vehicle is secured during transport. The inventive apparatus may be used to secure a variety of vehicles having at least one generally rigid, elongated member, such as handlebars or a tubular frame member, to which the device is attached.
US08235626B2	Adjustable system and method for carrying out work at an underwater structure A dry setting installation (1) for generating a substantially dry working space for carrying out work at an underwater structure. The dry setting installation (1) has two side-walls (2), a back wall (3) and a bottom (4) thus forming a cofferdam. The dry setting installation furthermore has, for each side-wall, a side edge sealing (20) provided on the side-wall (2) edge for providing a substantially sealing contact between the side-walls (2) and the underwater structure. The dry setting installation also has a distance variation system (30) for varying the distance between the side edge sealing system (20) of the two side-walls (2).
US08235622B2	Joint and/or bearing arrangement A joint and/or bearing arrangement (1) is provided with a joint pin (2), whose head area (3) is mobile in relation to a receiving joint shell (4). The joint shell (4) is arranged in the mounted position in a receiving space acting as a housing (5). At least one border (10) with axial barriers (11) surrounds the joint shell (4) in some areas and is arranged between the joint shell (4) and the housing (5).
US08235621B2	Grout dispensing system and device The present invention relates to a grout dispensing system comprising: a suction mechanism that draws grout material into an elongated tube; a dispensing channel attached to a first end of the elongated tube; a suction handle extending through the elongated tube, where the suction handle draws grout into the tube when moved in a first direction and dispenses grout into the dispensing channel when moved in a second direction; a plurality of dispensing tips disposed below the dispensing channel; and a squeegee on one side of the dispensing channel. In one exemplary embodiment, the suction mechanism includes a suction cup at one end of the suction handle, where said suction cup is within said elongated tube; a suction opening at a lower end of the elongated tube; and a suction tube extending from the suction opening. The distal end of suction tube lies in a deposit of grout.
US08235619B2	Container for sequentially dispensing multiple fluids onto an applicator device A structure and system are described which include the use of a combination container for sequentially dispensing multiple fluids onto a removable applicator device. A preferred application of the invention is with the sequential dispensing of a quantity of disinfecting solution over a toothbrush, followed by the dispensing of a measured quantity of toothpaste onto the toothbrush. The device is constructed in a double walled cylindrical (circular or non-circular) configuration with a hollow plunger component coaxially positioned within the cylindrical walls. Beneath the plunger component is contained a quantity of disinfectant solution such that when the plunger is directed downward the disinfectant solution is forced upward between the walls of the double walled container and through dispensing ports directed into the interior where the applicator is positioned. The contained motion of the plunger component downward under the directed force of the applicator brings the base of the hollow plunger into contact with the base wall of the container and causes the collapse of the hollow plunger. A second liquid/gel contained within the hollow plunger is then directed up and out of its enclosed volume through ports aligned with the applicator. The design is intended to accommodate a wide variety of compounds and applicators. Wherever the dispensing of two different compounds (liquids/gels) is required in a sequential manner, the present invention finds applicability.
US08235609B2	Selectable printhead-to-paper spacing adjustment method A method of adjusting the spacing between a portion of a printhead and a portion of a media support in a printing system. The spacing is easily adjustable at least at the time of manufacture for locking a printhead at a selected distance from the media support. A rotatable variable spacer is abutted against an anti-rotation rail to lock into place the printhead at the selected distance.
US08235608B2	Camera module A camera module includes a circuit board, an image sensor, a barrel, a lens holder, a base board, and a number of clamping elements. The circuit board has a mounting surface. The image sensor is mounted on the mounting surface of the circuit board and includes an image plane. The barrel has two lens received therein. The lens holder is coupled to the barrel and receives the image sensor. The base board is arranged around the lens holder, and the base board is attached to the lens holder and attached on the mounting surface of the circuit board. The clamping elements clamp the base board on the circuit board, such that an optical axis of the barrel is maintained substantially coaxially aligned with a normal of the image plane.
US08235607B2	Camera module A camera module includes a substrate, a holder, and a dustproof member. The holder is mounted on the substrate. The holder also defines an air vent. The dustproof member includes a permeable portion. The permeable portion is made of air-permeable material. The permeable portion shields the air vent. The dustproof member can also be made of a porous material plugging the air vent.
US08235606B2	Mirror unit and image capturing apparatus A mirror unit that can decrease the wait time before distance measurement. The mirror unit includes a first mirror; a second mirror; a first mirror holder that holds the first mirror, is rotatable on a rotational axis arranged above an optical path of the incident light, is lowered to a first mirror-down position, and is raised to a first mirror-up position; and a second mirror holder that includes an auxiliary component and a mirror holding component holding the second mirror, is lowered to a second mirror-down position, and is raised to a second mirror-up position, wherein the auxiliary component is provided below the first mirror holder in the direction of the lowering, is rotatable on a rotational axis that is the same as or parallel to the rotational axis of the first mirror holder, and can be lowered independently of the first mirror holder, and the mirror holding component is engaged with the auxiliary component to be relatively rotatable around a rotational axis that is parallel to the rotational axis of the auxiliary component.
US08235603B2	Optoelectric conversion module, method for assembling same, and optoelectric information processor using same An object is to obtain a module in which an optical fiber can be inserted after a ferrule has been mounted on a circuit board. There is provided an optical module (100) in which at least a ferrule (33) and an electric component (57) are mounted on a circuit board (35) on which external electrodes (63) have been mounted; a fiber through-hole is formed in the ferrule (33) in a position in which the optoelectric conversion device (31) is mounted on one end surface and that corresponds to an active layer of an optoelectric conversion device (31); and the optoelectric conversion device (31) of the ferrule (33) is electrically connected to the electric component (57). In the ferrule (33), an opening in the one end face of the fiber through-hole that faces the optoelectric conversion device (31) is blocked by a transparent substance (61), and a portion that excludes the fiber through-hole at the other end surface is are monolithically covered with a molding resin (55).
US08235592B2	Gauge on a pipe section A gauge includes a pipe section with a flattened section in which an opening through a wall of the pipe is provided, an adapter disposed in the opening, the adapter being adapted to receive a measuring probe, wherein the adapter fills the opening and is attached to the pipe section through a material fusion between the adapter and at least one of the pipe wall in the opening and a surface of the flattened section.
US08235590B2	Thermal instrument engine An engine for use in a thermal instrument. The engine includes an infrared camera module and may also include a visible light camera module. The engine includes several temperature sensors mounted on a printed circuit board assembly that permit the engine to provide improved radiometry functionality and improved fine offset compensation capabilities.
US08235586B2	Smart card watch A smart card watch comprises a watch head (1) and straps (2). A timepiece device and a smart card device are provided in the watch head (1), and a card slot (126) is provided on the side of the watch head (1). People can easily carry the smart card (153) with the watch which cannot be lost easily and they can conveniently change smart cards having different functions any time and anywhere they want. The smart card has great functions and can be used and operated easily. Furthermore, the timepiece device and the smart card device are installed in separate sealed chambers, a first chamber (14) and a second chamber (15) in the watch head (1), thus the timepiece device can be well protected such that it has a prolonged endurance and an ensured working stability. Even if the backcover (13) is opened to repair the smart card device, the normal operation of the timepiece device and the water-tightness of the first chamber (14) are not affected. Besides, the watch head (1) is further provided with a port (154), in particular USB port, which can get access to the service provider's websites via an external computer for electronic data communication and data updates of related services.
US08235585B2	Fastening device for wrist straps A device for fastening a wrist strap, in particular a watch strap, to a case, in particular to a watch case, the device having a linking member, to one end of which a strap end member of the wrist strap can be fastened and the other end of which can be fastened to a wrist strap pin attached laterally to said case. The linking member has at the bottom thereof an indentation which is appreciably elbowed in longitudinal section and opens into a groove which is suitable for receiving the wrist strap pin and is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the wrist strap. A securing element, which is biased against said case and has an interlocking projection located therein, is arranged on the linking member in such a way that the securing element can assume two positions. In a first, secured position, the wrist strap pin is positioned in the groove in the linking member and the securing element prevents the linking member or the wrist strap from becoming detached from the wrist strap pin or from the case by means of the cooperation of said interlocking projection with the case. In a second, opened position, the wrist strap pin can be guided out of or into said groove.
US08235577B2	Methods and apparatus for coating particulate material Methods and apparatus for coating particulate material are provided. The apparatus includes a vessel having a top and a bottom, a vertically extending conduit having an inlet in the vessel and an outlet outside of the vessel, a first fluid inlet in the bottom of the vessel for introducing a transfer fluid, a second fluid inlet in the bottom of the vessel for introducing a coating fluid, and a fluid outlet from the vessel. The method includes steps of agitating a material, contacting the material with a coating material, and drying the coating material to produce a coated material. The invention may be adapted to coat aerogel beads, among other materials. A coated aerogel bead and an aerogel-based insulation material are also disclosed.
US08235573B2	Backlight module A backlight module includes a light guide, a mixing light guide plate, and a plurality of light sources. The first light guide comprises a first side surface. The mixing light guide plate comprises an incident surface with anomalous surface and an emergent surface with fog surface. The mixing light guide plate is set on the first side surface. A plurality of light sources disposed corresponding to the incident surface, with light emitted there from and entering the mixing light guide plate through the incident surface then exits the mixing light guide plate through the emergent surface, finally, entering the light guide through the first side surface.
US08235572B2	Backlight module A backlight module includes a reflector, a light-guiding sheet, a light-emitting element, and a plurality of first adhesive materials. The reflector has a reflecting surface and the light-guiding sheet is disposed on the reflecting surface. The light-emitting element is disposed on the reflecting surface and located beside the light-guiding sheet. The first adhesive materials are disposed between the reflecting surface and the light-guiding sheet, and adhere the reflecting surface, the light-guiding sheet, and the light-emitting element.
US08235569B2	Light assembly for a vehicle The invention provides a light assembly to enable various light functions, such as braking lights, tail lights, license plate lights, flashers, etc., using LEDs that consume low power and have a long service life. The LEDs are located on a single, two-sided printed circuit board (PCB), which reduces the assembly costs and the size of tail light, as well as the complexity of assembly.
US08235565B2	Vehicular lamp A vehicular lamp includes a first aiming mechanism and a second aiming mechanism that enable a lamp unit to be assembled to a vehicle body from the outside or the inside. The lamp body includes a pair of first vertical tilt axis structural members that are provided on a rear portion and engage with the vehicle body tiltably around a first horizontal tilt axis, and a pair of second vertical tilt axis structural members that are provided on both left and right sides and retained tiltably around a second horizontal tilt axis with respect to the vehicle body. The first aiming mechanism has a first optical axis adjusting portion that tilts the lamp unit around the first horizontal tilt axis via an aiming screw. The second aiming mechanism has a second optical axis adjusting portion that tilts the lamp unit around the second horizontal tilt axis via an aiming screw.
US08235564B2	Street light which adopt xenon lamp Disclosed is a streetlight having a xenon lamp in that a lamp assembly having a xenon lamp is formed at the existed streetlight, whereby lowering a power consumption and remarkably increasing the period of the lamp change. The present invention is to provide a streetlight having a xenon lamp in that the xenon lamp is formed therein, whereby emitting a lot brighter light with low power consumption. Also, the present invention is to provide a streetlight having a xenon lamp in that a ballast is built in a lamp assembly having the xenon lamp, so that the change of the xenon lamp can be easily performed and the lamp assembly can be easily applied to even the existed streetlight. Moreover, the present invention is to provide a streetlight having a xenon lamp in that a plurality of xenon lamps can be formed at one lamp assembly and the number of each lamp can be controlled, thereby adjusting the brightness thereof and another xenon lamp and ballast can be operated during the damage of the operating xenon lamp, thereby remarkably increasing the period of the lamp change.
US08235561B2	Lighting fixture with cooling conduit Among other disclosed subject matter, a lighting device cooled by being at least partially submerged is provided. The lighting device includes a housing forming a chamber having at least one transparent portion. The lighting device includes a diode in the chamber emitting light through the transparent portion. The lighting device includes a cooling conduit configured for a liquid to flow along the chamber when the lighting device is at least partially submerged in the liquid, without the liquid contacting the diode. The diode is mounted on a surface that abuts the cooling conduit.
US08235559B2	Light fixture A light fixture comprises a housing configured to store a plurality of light bulbs therein, wherein at least one of the light bulbs is located in a non-illumination position within the housing. The light fixture may also comprise an openable door such that at least one light bulb is coupled to the door. The light fixture may also comprise an actuatable mechanism that releases the light fixture from a fixed position when actuated to enable variable positioning of the light fixture.
US08235557B2	Modular customizable lampshade system A lampshade system which utilizes a simplified lampshade design that does not require integrally manufactured frame components. The lampshade can be manufactured in a flattened position to optimize shipping, storage and display space and which may be easily assembled into a three-dimensional lampshade position by an end user at the point of use.
US08235553B2	Lighting device for a headlamp light source A lighting device for a headlamp light source includes an connector to be connected to cables for supplying power to the light source, and attached to the bottom of a headlamp case that houses a light source, wherein the output connector is formed such that when the lighting device is attached to the headlamp case, the bottom of a connection opening to which cables of the output connector are connected is disposed at a higher position than a bottom face inside the headlamp case.
US08235551B2	LED module and packaging method thereof A light-emitting diode (LED) module and an LED packaging method. As the LED module is packaged under the consideration of candela distribution, each of the lead frames of the LED chips packaged in the LED module is bended for tilting the LED chips by different angles to exhibit various lighting effects. Meanwhile, in the LED packaging method, a plurality of LED chips can be loaded on board rapidly and aligned by one operation to result in less deviation in the candela distribution curve.
US08235550B2	Street lamp Disclosed is a street lamp. The street lamp includes: an LED module in which a plurality of LEDs are disposed on one side of a substrate; and a heat radiating body including a convex top surface and a bottom surface disposed on the substrate.
US08235548B2	Light emitting diode display An LED display with a reduced thickness is described. In one embodiment, the LED display includes a second support plate between a front support plate and a back support plate. The second support plate enables the front support plate to be thinner than if the second support plate was not included. The second support plate increases the distance between an LED chip and a light exit surface thereby allowing the front support plate thickness to be reduced by about the thickness of the second support plate. In one embodiment, the second support plate allows the thickness of an LED display to be thinner. The second support plate adds structural integrity to a back support plate. Therefore, the back support plate can be thinner, and thickness of the LED display can be reduced.
US08235546B2	Light source module having a plurality of light-emitting elements and illumination apparatus A light source module has a reflector having a light reflection face and a plurality of light emitting elements. The light reflection face is curved in a circular arc shape in a width direction of the reflector and extends in a longitudinal direction of the reflector. The light emitting elements are arranged in a center portion in the width direction of the light reflection face and are arranged linearly along the longitudinal direction of the reflector.
US08235545B2	LED tube An LED (light emitting diode) tube includes a connecting member, an LED module mounted on a bottom side of the connecting member, a driving circuit module mounted on a top side of the connecting member, two covers engaging with two opposite lateral sides of the connecting member and two connectors. The two covers cover the driving circuit module and the LED module, respectively. The two connectors are located at two opposite ends of the LED tube. Two recesses are cooperatively defined by the two covers and the connecting member in two opposite sides of the LED tube and along a length of the LED tube. The recesses separate the two covers from each other and each have a width less than 12 mm.
US08235543B2	Compensation method for alleviating color shading in digital image A compensation method for alleviating color shading in a digital image is adapted to correct a color shading phenomenon in a digital image that causes luminance differences between regions in the digital image. The compensation method includes capturing a uniform color block image; calculating horizontal compensation coefficients of a plurality of horizontal segments of the color block image; performing a linear interpolation process on the horizontal compensation coefficients to generate corresponding horizontal interpolation coefficients, and calculating determination horizontal correction coefficients corresponding to all the horizontal segments, respectively; calculating vertical compensation coefficients of a plurality of vertical segments; multiplying the determination horizontal correction coefficients by the vertical compensation coefficients, respectively, so as to obtain a color shading compensation coefficient of each segment, respectively; and multiplying an average luminance value of each segment by a corresponding color shading compensation coefficient, respectively, thus compensating for color shading in the color block image.
US08235533B2	Post-scan distortion adjustment optics for infinite focus projector system Briefly, in accordance with one or more embodiments, a scanned beam display may utilize one or more post-scan optics while at least partially maintaining an infinite focus, or nearly infinite focus, property of the display. The display may comprise a light source to generate a light beam, a scanning platform to generate a raster scan from the light beam projected as a projected image, one or more post-scan optics to at least partially adjust the projected image, and one or more collimating optics to focus the light beam from the light source, the one or more collimating optics having a selected focal length to at least partially provide infinite, or nearly infinite focus, of the projected image at or beyond a selected distance.
US08235532B2	Color splitting method for light sources A system comprises two or more light sources comprising a first light source and a second light source, each light source of the two or more light sources configured to provide light of a particular wavelength, wherein a first wavelength of a first light provided by the first light source differs from a second wavelength of a second light provided by the second light source, and wherein the first light has a first radiant energy that experiences roll-off. The system further comprises a controller configured to modulate an attribute of each light source to compensate for the roll-off, the modulation comprising modulating an attribute of the first light source, and the modulation further comprising modulating an attribute of the second light source, the modulation of the second attribute being different from the modulation of the first attribute.
US08235530B2	Object positioning with visual feedback A positioning system comprises a pattern projector (70) for projecting a 2D/3D pattern (45) onto an object surface. The 2D/3D pattern (45) is detected by a detector (80, 85), which generates a detection signal that is employed by a pattern analyzing circuit (110) for generating a surface representation of the object surface. A correction analyzing circuit (130) generates a correction signal representative of a discrepancy in position and/or posture of the surface representation relative a stored reference surface representation. The correction signal is employed to generate information (55, 56) that is projected by a light projector (70, 75) onto the object surface. The projected information (55, 56) is indicative of the determined discrepancy in object position and/or posture.
US08235526B2	Pupilometer with pupil irregularity detection, pupil tracking, and pupil response detection capability, glaucoma screening capability, intracranial pressure detection capability, and ocular aberration measurement capability A pupilometer that has image capturing means, a light source that emits light; and imaging software that processes image data obtained by the image capturing means and produces an output is described. The output comprises a single scalar value indicative of a neurological condition of a patient, wherein the scalar value can be applied to a scale indicative of a neurological condition. The image data comprises one or more components of the pupil's dynamic response to light emitted by the light source.
US08235524B2	Illuminated eyewear Illuminated eyewear is provided that directs light forwardly from the user when wearing the eyewear. The illuminated eyewear herein is in the form of eyeglasses, either with or without lenses, or with a lens or lenses that can be refractive or non-refractive, that in one aspect has the lights arranged so as to optimize their performance. In another aspect, the illustrated eyewear herein has electrical components for the lights arranged to provide enhanced aesthetics over prior lighted eyeglasses.
US08235523B2	Eye covering An eye covering includes an outer frame for surrounding a facial area around a wearer's eyes. The outer frame includes a lens frame that has a first upright wall. The first upright wall is formed with at least one first slot. The eye covering further includes a lens engaged in the lens frame. The lens includes at least one engaging piece that extends rearward to engage the first slot. The eye covering also includes an inner frame having a lining portion that is disposed to line a peripheral portion of the lens and that is disposed between the peripheral portion of the lens and the outer frame.
US08235520B2	Droplet discharge device and droplet discharge method A droplet discharge device includes a stage, a droplet discharge head, a movement unit and a light radiating unit. The droplet discharge head includes nozzles arranged to discharge droplets of photo-curable liquid material toward a drawing region of a workpiece. The movement unit is arranged to move the stage and the droplet discharge head relative to each other. The light radiating unit has a light emitting part capable of emitting light to an entire area of the drawing region and disposed on a side opposite from the surface of the workpiece on which the liquid material is applied. The light emitting part is arranged not to emit the light to the portion of the drawing region when the droplet discharge head is disposed at a position over the portion, and to emit the light to the portion when the droplet discharge head has moved away from the position.
US08235519B2	Image forming apparatus and method The image forming apparatus forms an image on a recording medium by using an ink and an aggregating treatment agent. The ink contains coloring material, and the aggregating treatment agent contains a component which causes the coloring material to aggregate. The image forming apparatus includes: a treatment liquid deposition device which deposits a treatment liquid onto the recording medium, the treatment liquid containing the aggregating treatment agent; a treatment liquid heating device which heats the treatment liquid having been deposited on the recording medium to form a solid or semi-solid layer of the aggregating treatment agent on the recording medium; a treatment liquid permeation suppression device which suppresses permeation of the treatment liquid into the recording medium at least from a time of deposition of the treatment liquid onto the recording medium until formation of the solid or semi-solid layer of the aggregating treatment agent; and an ink droplet ejection device which ejects and deposits droplets of the ink onto the recording medium on which the solid or semi-solid layer of the aggregating treatment agent has been formed.
US08235513B2	Liquid injecting method and liquid container A method of injecting a liquid into a liquid container detachably mounted on a liquid consuming device, the liquid container including: a liquid containing chamber in which the liquid can be contained; a liquid supply hole connectable to the liquid consuming device; a liquid guide passage for guiding the liquid contained in the liquid containing chamber to the liquid supply hole; an air communicating passage communicating the liquid containing chamber with an air; and a liquid residual quantity sensor provided in the liquid guide passage and for outputting different signals between in a case where the liquid guide passage is filled with the liquid and in a case where the liquid guide passage includes air entered thereinto, wherein the liquid containing chamber including at least three liquid containing chambers, and wherein the liquid containing chambers are mutually connected so as to have a descending connection where a pair of the liquid containing chambers are mutually connected so that a liquid flow in the liquid guide passage is a descending flow from above to below and an ascending connection where a pair of the liquid containing chambers are mutually connected so that the liquid flow in the liquid guide passage is an ascending flow from below to above, the method includes: forming an injection port, which communicates with the liquid containing chamber, in the air communicating passage; injecting a predetermined amount of liquid through the injection port; and sealing the injection port after injecting the liquid.
US08235512B2	Liquid container and liquid-ejecting apparatus A liquid container includes a liquid-containing bag filled with liquid and having a supply port that discharges the liquid; an outer frame accommodating the liquid-containing bag; a detecting plate fixed on the liquid-containing bag for detection of a liquid-exhausted state; and at least one protrusion disposed on the outer frame. The protrusion regulates transfer of the detecting plate in a direction along which the liquid-containing bag is compressed when the amount of the liquid remaining in the liquid-containing bag becomes small, and ensures a space through which the liquid can flow in the liquid-containing bag.
US08235507B2	Liquid droplet ejection head A droplet ejection head provided with a piezoelectric actuator made by using a KNbO3—NaNbO3 piezoelectric porcelain composition which exhibits a larger piezoelectric constant than those of conventional ones and does not have any secondary phase transition point in the neighborhood of room temperature (from 10 to 40° C.) and which is suitable for use in the piezoelectric actuator of a droplet ejection head, that is, a droplet ejection head characterized by being provided with a piezoelectric actuator made by using a piezoelectric porcelain composition represented by the general formula: (1−y−z−w)(KxNa1-x)NbO3+yLiNbO3+zSrTiO3+wBiFeO3, wherein (KxNa1-x)NbO3 represents potassium sodium niobate; LiNbO3 represents lithium niobate; SrTiO3 represents strontium titanate; and BiFeO3 represents bismuth ferrate; with the proviso that 0.4
US08235503B2	Semiconductor element chip, ink jet head employing semiconductor element chip, and method for bonding electrodes of semiconductor element chip A semiconductor element substrate includes an electrode pad; a semiconductor element; and a connection heater for heating the electrode pad, wherein the connection heater is disposed in a range capable of heating the electrode pad up to a level capable of electrical connection.
US08235499B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus in which air or dust does not enter a recording liquid tube when an ink cartridge is changed is disclosed. An engine unit, in which an image forming section and a sub scanning direction paper carrying section are integrated as one unit, is removably attached to an apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus. Further, an ink cartridge storing section, in which an ink cartridge is removably stored, is integrated into the engine unit, and is changed together with the engine unit. In addition, a carriage, the recording liquid tube, and the ink cartridge storing section are removed as one unit from the engine unit.
US08235498B2	Head repairing apparatus and fluid ejecting apparatus A push latch cam is provided so as to be rotatable integrally with a intermittence gear, a cam driving gear for rotating a wiper support member cam rotates in connection with the rotation of the intermittence gear, and in a range in which the intermittence gear is engaged with a planetary gear, so that the intermittence gear can be rotated, a rotation range of the intermittence gear capable of opening and closing a atmosphere opening valve by the push latch mechanism and a rotation range of the intermittence gear in which the wiper is displaced by the rotation of the wiper support member cam are set in non-overlapped positions.
US08235497B2	Liquid ejection apparatus and method of ejecting liquid using the same A target medium is placed on a first region. A liquid absorbing member is placed in at least a second region which is adjacent to the first region. A liquid ejection head is movable above the first region and the second region, and provided with a plurality of liquid ejecting sections from which liquid droplets are ejected. Each of the liquid ejecting sections is configured so as to eject at least one liquid droplet toward the target medium when it is placed above the first region, and to flush a prescribed amount of liquid toward the liquid absorbing member when it is placed above the second region. The liquid ejecting sections are arranged such that at least one of the liquid ejecting sections can be placed above the first region when another one of the liquid ejecting sections is placed above the second region.
US08235491B2	Registration plate assembly for mailpiece conveyance system A registration plate assembly for a compliant conveyance system and is adapted for use in combination with an array of print heads each having a print head nozzle. The registration plate assembly includes a mounting plate, a registration plate affixed to the mounting plate and at least one runner fastened to the mounting plate and disposed within an opening defined by the registration plate. The mounting plate has at least one aperture therein for accepting a print head nozzle associated with each of the print head and the registration plate includes and an opening for permitting the deposition of ink from each of the print head nozzles. The runner is aligned with the feed path of the conveyance system and has a blade portion disposed at a location between adjacent print head nozzles which is operative to maintain a stand-off distance from the face surface of each mailpiece to one of the print head nozzles.
US08235487B2	Rapid ink-charging of a dry ink discharge nozzle The present teachings relate to methods and apparatus for depositing one or more materials (e.g., one or more films, such as one or more solids) on one or more substrates, which may form part of an OLED or other type(s) of display. In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for depositing ink on one or more substrates. The apparatus can include, for example, one or more chambers for receiving ink, and plural orifices configured in the one or more chambers which are adapted for ejecting droplets of the ink; a discharge nozzle comprising an array of micro-pores (e.g., configured in a rectangular array), with each micro-pore having an inlet port and an outlet port, and the discharge nozzle receiving plural quantities (e.g., droplets) of ink from the chamber(s) via the orifices at the inlet ports and dispensing the ink from the outlet ports. The droplets of ink can be received at unique, spaced-apart locations on the inlet ports of the discharge nozzle. In some embodiments, a single liquid ink-holding chamber, which includes plural orifices (e.g., three), receives ink in liquid form having a plurality of suspended particles, and droplets of the ink are ejected substantially simultaneously from the chamber to respective, spaced-apart locations on the discharge nozzle; and the discharge nozzle evaporates the carrier liquid and deposits the solid particles on one or more substrates.
US08235485B2	Element substrate, printhead, head cartridge, and printing apparatus The present invention prevents an element substrate from not operating normally in the case where the voltage supply from a power supply that applies a voltage to a logic circuit is unstable. The element substrate of the invention has unit for applying a first voltage to the logic circuit, and unit capable of applying a second voltage that is lower than the first voltage and capable of operating the logic circuit.
US08235484B2	Printbar support mechanism A web press printer includes a printbar supporting an array of printheads extending across a media web. The printbar includes a support member coupled to the printbar via one or more biasing mechanisms to locally counteract a deflection of the printbar at a location of one or more of the respective printheads along the printbar.
US08235479B2	Slide assembly A slide assembly includes a first slide and a second slide. The second slide is received in the first slide. The second slide includes a first bent portion. The first bent portion linearly contacts with an inner side of the first slide along an extending direction of the second slide.
US08235474B2	Electric disk brake An electric disk brake that prevents uneven abrasion of a disk rotor when the brake is not in operation. Rotation of an electric motor is slowed down by a differential speed reducing mechanism, and is converted to linear motion of a piston by a ball ramp mechanism. When the brake is not in operation, the piston is retracted by reverse rotation of the electric motor so that a predetermined pad clearance is maintained. When the brake is not in operation, a pad-retracting-control electric current is supplied to the electric motor so that the piston is biased backward while being maintained in one position. When the brake is not in operation, contact of the disk rotor with the brake pads due to runout of the disk rotor triggers smooth retracting of the piston, thereby preventing uneven abrasion of the disk rotor.
US08235464B2	Child seat Seat to accommodate a child in a vehicle, the seat being adapted for secure connection to the vehicle e.g. to a conventional forward facing vehicle seat for an adult; the seat having a support portion (10) on which a child may sit, a rear portion (11) configured to restrict movements of the back of the child, and a headrest (12) configured to restrict movements of the back of the head of the child, in which a first upright member (15) is connected to a rear part of [or a rear extension to] the support portion (10) and a second upright member (16) is connected to a rear part of [or a rear extension to] the headrest (12), the upright members (15 and 16) being parallel to each other, and in which there is adjustment means to adjust the relative position of the headrest with respect to the support portion, the adjustment means comprising a rotary member (19) rotatable about a horizontal axis fixed with respect to the rear portion (11), the rotary member (19) having grips (27, 28) at its ends projecting sideways from the support portion within or behind the support portion and projecting detents (21,22) between the grips, the detents (21, 22) being arranged to engage facing slots (15a and 16a) of identical pitch apart in the first and second upright members, the arrangement being such that when the rotary member (19) is turned by the grips (27, 28), the rear portion (11) is raised by the pitch of the slots (15a and 16a), and the headrest (12) is raised by twice the pitch of the slots.
US08235463B2	Child seat tethering system A system and method to tether a child seat to a vehicle seat is disclosed. The child seat has a latch strap engaging with a lower back of the child seat and a top tether strap coupled to a top of the child seat. An adapter plate is provided which has first, second, and third apertures with the first and second apertures receiving first and second connectors coupled to first and second ends of the latch strap and the third aperture receiving a third connector coupled to the top tether strap. The latch strap ends are threaded through the seat bight and coupled to first and second apertures of the adapter plate. The top tether strap connector is coupled to the third aperture. Each strap has a cinch, which is adjusted to tighten the straps.
US08235462B2	Valve layer for a seat In one aspect, the present invention provides a ventilated seat with a valve sheet having one or more valve assemblies. The valve sheet maybe on a frame of the seat. The valve assemblies open in response to a force such as a force applied by an individual occupying the seat. In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of thermally regulating a seat by occupying a seat with a valve sheet. By occupying the seat one or more valves assemblies open air moving though the open valve assemblies thermally regulates the seat.
US08235461B2	Ventilated seat using shock absorbing material In at least one embodiment, a shock absorbing ventilated seat is provided that includes a seat portion; and a back portion adjustably hinged to the seat portion. At least one of the seat and the back portions include a planer sheet of shock absorbing material located therein. The shock absorbing material has a top layer, a bottom layer, and a plurality of pairs of ribs that couple the top layer to the bottom layer so as to create a plurality of channels in the material. The top layer has a plurality of perforations therein that communicate with the plurality of channels, each of the plurality of channels having an opening on an end of the material coupled to an air source that cause air to pass through the openings of the channels and exit through the perforations in the material.
US08235456B2	Retractable air deflection apparatus for reduction of vehicular air drag An air deflection apparatus for reduction of vehicular air drag comprises at least one air deflection element coupled to the rear-facing surface of the vehicle but not to any rear door which the vehicle may have. The air deflection elements are displaceable, preferably in unison, between a retracted position and at least one deployed position, and may be deployed and retracted manually, or remotely with powered assistance, or under microprocessor control. Each air deflection element is coupled to a respective portion of the rear-facing surface of the vehicle that is arranged above, below or on either side of the rear door, and each air deflection element is associated with a frame in which it is substantially disposed when in the retracted position. Vehicles equipped with the apparatus, and methods of reducing vehicular air drag using the apparatus, are also disclosed.
US08235451B2	Method and system for deforming a drive rod in a door after an impact to the door A method and system for deforming a drive rod in a door after an impact to the door. An automobile having a door with a door handle, a drive rod, a latching system, a striker, and a drive rod deformation member. The drive rod deformation member can be positioned adjacent to the drive rod. Upon impact to the door, the drive rod deformation member impacts and deforms the drive rod. The deformation of the drive rod can correspond to a compression of the door and the door can be opened by actuating the door handle. However, the deformation of the drive rod prevents the drive rod from controlling the latching system to disengage from the striker through compression of the door.
US08235447B2	Tensioning and lock device The present invention is directed to a tensioning and lock device for achieving a sufficient amount of tension throughout a tarp cover. The present invention is particularly well suited for retractable, tarp cover systems used in the trucking industry, but is also useful in other applications and in other fields. The tensioning and lock device comprises a base and an extending mechanism comprising an actuator. The actuator may be of the hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical variation and can be either manually or automatically powered. The present tensioning device is lightweight, compact, easy to install and accomplishes its function in a minimal amount of time.
US08235445B2	Vehicle seat on demand A vehicle is provided with on-demand seating to allow maximum cargo space in the passenger compartment when the seats are not needed. The seating is lightweight and compact, maximizing available cargo space and minimizing mass and fuel economy impact. The flexible seat may be stowed within body structure defining the passenger compartment, such as side trim panels or a vehicle floor. The body structure supports the flexible seat in a deployed position in which the flexible seat extends from the body structure into the passenger compartment. Roller mechanisms mounted within the body structure allow the seat to extend and retract from the passenger compartment. The seats may be inflatable, and may include pneumatic foam.
US08235444B2	Vehicle interior covering and a method for its manufacture A vehicle interior is provided for covering with an edge cladding and method is provided for manufacturing a vehicle covering. The vehicle interior includes, but is not limited to a decorative material, a plush material, and a flat profiled core material with a visible side and hidden rear side. The visible side is coherently connected with the decorative material and the rear side is coherently connected with the plush material that is formed at least partially from a thermoplastic. The vehicle interior also includes, but is not limited to an interior covering, a U-shaped edge cladding formed at least partially of a thermoplastic material and bordering one edge of the interior covering such that a first leg of the U-shaped edge cladding covers a material of the visible side and a second leg covers the plush material of the rear side, a substantially continuous bead of adhesive bonding the U-shaped edge cladding with an edge and running in the U-profile, and a plurality of point welds connecting thermoplastic material of the second leg with thermoplastic material of the plush material.
US08235442B2	Console lid slide rail attachment Embodiments of a vehicle console comprise a base structure defining a cavity and having an opening permitting access to the cavity, a lid having a surface area sufficient to cover at least a portion of the opening when the lid is in a closed position at the base structure, a hinge member connected between the base structure and the lid and configured to allow rotational movement of the lid between the closed position and an open position, a slide coupled to the lid and configured to allow translational movement of at least a portion of the lid between a retracted position and an extended position spaced apart from the retracted position and a slide mounting member including a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion, the first mounting portion coupled to the hinge member and the second mounting portion coupled to the slide.
US08235438B2	Gripper mechanism with split driveshaft for a gripping finger A gripper mechanism for machines, robots and manipulation devices, comprising at least one moving gripping finger, driven by a driveshaft of multiple parts, a crank, belt or gear shaft, wherein the centering of the parts relative to each other and the transmission of the torque from a driving part to the next part, up to the gripping finger, is achieved by means of axial toothing, preferably a pinion gearing with pins and drillings. The driveshaft is preferably provided with a carrying support bearing. As a result of the splitting of the driveshaft, it is possible to cast the housing in one piece with two cavities for housing the operating unit and the transmission. The gripping finger or the lever driving the gripping finger are externally fixed to the driveshaft in an axial manner.
US08235434B2	Uprightly storable fecal matter scooper A fecal matter scooper having a manipulable handle attached to an elongate handle extension from which a pair of opposable scoop jaws extend that define a fecal matter holding scoop bucket when disposed in a closed position and which define a pedestal or base upon which the scooper can be stored in an uprightly standing position when the jaws are disposed in an open pedestal position. When stored uprightly, the handle can be grasped to pick up and maneuver the scooper without the user having to bend over. A biasing arrangement is disposed in operable cooperation with at least one jaw for urging at least one of the jaws toward such an open pedestal position. In a method of operation, at least one of the jaws is perforate enabling sifting unspoiled litter back into a litter box when removing clumped fecal matter or urine from the litter box.
US08235433B2	Bumper shield for a motor vehicle The bumper shield for a motor vehicle comprising two main longitudinal members (12), two auxiliary longitudinal members (16) positioned at a lower height, as well as supporting and attachment plates (20) positioned between the ends of the longitudinal members (12, 16), is a single integral piece in plastic material and is formed of two uprights (28) and an upper beam (24) connecting the uprights (28), the uprights (28) being configured so as to bear upon the plates (20) so as to act as impact absorbers, the shield (8) having the shape of an H or an inverted U given by the uprights (28) and the upper beam (24).
US08235432B2	Supplemental side impact protection system for automotive vehicle A supplemental impact protection system for an automotive vehicle includes an external energy management structure having a first position for normal vehicle operation and a second position for deployment during an impact event. A mounting system allows selective positioning of the energy management structure in either the first or second position, as determined by a controller which assesses an impact potential of the vehicle and operates the mounting system to move the energy management structure to the second, or deployed, position in the event that the assessed impact potential satisfies a predetermined threshold.
US08235426B2	Latch assembly for joining two conduits A latch assembly for connection of conduit, the assembly comprising a female portion and a male portion, wherein each of the female portion and the male portion have a shell and a connection device. The connection device of the female portion includes a connection assembly with a molded-in slot, a release button, and a raised rib or alternatively is a connection opening. The connection device of the male portion includes a cantilevered region with a ramped engagement feature or alternatively is a raised cantilevered release button. When connected the cantilevered region or button deflects to accommodate the female portion until the ramped engagement feature or button engages the molded-in slot or connection opening, thus releasing the deflection. Depressing the release button disengages the latch allowing separation of the assembly.
US08235425B2	Lever arm coupling for connecting hose lines A lever arm coupling for detachably connecting hose lines has a first connection part and a second connection part, the coupling operable by way of at least one lever arm. The lever arm comprises a pressure application section that is mounted pivotably about a pivot bolt that defines a pivot axis, the pressure application section reaching through a radial opening into a receptacle space of a receptacle housing. A securing disk is pivotably disposed on the pivot bolt parallel to the pressure application section. The securing disk is mounted pivotably between stops at the second connection part and can be carried along with the lever arm, wherein a pivoting of the securing disk can be executed in such a way that a secured pressure release position of the lever arm coupling is attained.
US08235418B2	Airbag An airbag system for a vehicle includes an inflatable rear curtain airbag configured to deploy adjacent a rear window positioned between rear pillars in the vehicle, a housing for the rear curtain airbag, and an inflator to inflate the rear curtain airbag. The housing, rear curtain airbag, and inflator are mounted to a roof of the vehicle. The rear curtain airbag is configured to deploy to prevent ejection of an occupant out of the rear window and to prevent objects intruding through the rear window from contacting an occupant.
US08235416B2	Arrangement for sensing weight of an occupying item in a vehicular seat In or for a vehicle, an arrangement for measuring weight of an occupant of a seat connected to a floor of the vehicle via a slide mechanism, the floor, in part, defining a passenger compartment of the vehicle. A support structure extends between the slide mechanism and the seat. A force sensing device is coupled to the support structure and configured for measuring force in the support structure indicative of weight applied by the occupant to the seat. The weight may be used for component control.
US08235415B2	Textile gas guides for use with inflatable cushions Textile gas guides adapted for use with inflatable cushions and airbag systems are configured to be formed in a manner that reduces or eliminates the need for specialized equipment during manufacturing, and to be sufficiently reinforced to withstand damage during use. Such textile gas guides may comprise a second edge of a first fabric member overlapping and coupled with a shear seam to a portion of a third edge of a second fabric member. The third edge and a fourth edge of the second fabric member may be coupled together with a second seam sewed through the two edges of the second fabric member. The second fabric member at least substantially encompasses the first fabric member. Airbag systems employing such textile gas guides may include at least one inflatable cushion, a portion of which is coupled to the textile gas guide.
US08235409B2	Bicycle rear wheel suspension system A bicycle frame assembly having a number of rotatable members configured to absorb shocks and impacts associated with operation of the bicycle. The assembly includes a frame constructed to support a rider and a chain stay having a rearward end that extends toward a wheel hub and a forward end that is pivotably connected to the frame. An absorber is pivotably connected to the forward end of the chain stay and extends to a rocker arm that is pivotably connected to the frame. A seat stay is pivotably connected to a rearward end of the rocker arm and extends to the rearward end of the chain stay. The rearward ends of the seat stay and the chain stay are pivotably connected to rotate about a common axis.
US08235407B2	Wheelchair with adjustable seat A wheelchair is provided for positioning and transporting patients. An exemplary embodiment of the wheelchair includes a tiltable seat frame portion and a base frame portion. The seat frame portion is generally configured to tilt relative to the base frame portion. An arcuate track adjustment portion generally permits pivotal adjustment of the focus about which the seat frame portion rotates. A seat frame adjustment portion generally permits pivotal adjustment of the seat frame portion relative to the base frame portion such that the seat frame portion maintains proper orientation with the base frame portion upon adjustment of the focus about which the seat frame portion rotates.
US08235405B1	Linkage for a vehicle suspension A linkage for connecting a frame of a vehicle to an unsprung mass component of the vehicle, includes: a first portion connectable to the frame, the first portion includes a first toothed surface and a fourth rotatable connection; a second portion connectable to the unsprung mass component, the second portion includes a second toothed surface and a fifth rotatable connection; a third portion connectable to the first portion and the second portion, the third portion includes a sixth rotatable connection and a seventh rotatable connection, and where the first portion is rotatably connected to the second portion and configured to be rotatable between the first toothed surface and the second toothed surface, where the first toothed surface and the second toothed surface are configured to engage, where the fourth rotatable connection is connected to the seventh rotatable connection, where the fifth rotatable connection is connected to the sixth rotatable connection, and where the third portion is configured to connect the first portion to the second portion.
US08235404B2	Suspension and steering system The present invention discloses methods and apparatus for controlling dampening in a vehicle with no attributes of wheel scrub or camber change. The present invention further discloses steering systems, whereas the steering may function without the unwanted attributes of bump steer and roll steer.
US08235394B2	Valve stem seal with gas relief features A valve stem seal can include an elastomeric component having a first portion for having a sealed engagement with a valve stem, and a pressure relief lip engaging a valve guide. The pressure relief lip can have a sealing configuration and a venting configuration. The venting configuration can allow excess exhaust gases to vent from a combustion chamber. After the venting of excess exhaust gases, the pressure relief lip can close to the sealing configuration to prevent oil from entering the combustion chamber. The elastomeric body or the valve guide can include a pressure relief channel. The elastomeric body can also include a bumper engaging the valve guide. The pressure relief channel can be disposed in the bumper.
US08235391B2	Radial shaft seal assembly with lubrication retention and debris exclusion feature and method of construction thereof A radial shaft seal assembly includes an outer case having an axially extending cylindrical outer rim and an axially extending cylindrical inner rim spaced radially from one another by an annular pocket. A radially extending first leg connects the outer rim to the inner rim and a second leg extends radially inwardly from the inner rim to a free end. The assembly includes a wear sleeve having an axially extending cylindrical wall with an outer surface providing a running surface and a flange extending radially outwardly from the running surface. A seal lip extends inwardly from the free end of the second leg into sealing abutment with the running surface. A first porous filter is received in the pocket, and a second porous filter extends in substantial abutment with the outer rim and the second leg of the outer case.
US08235387B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus includes: a plurality of trays; a plurality of full-stack detectors; a first storage section; a second storage section; and a controller. The plurality of trays are loaded with first sheets that are output from an image forming section. Each of the plurality of full-stack detectors is provided at one of the plurality of trays, each full-stack detector detecting that a corresponding tray is full of first sheets. The first storage section stores the number of second sheets printed in the past by sheet type. The second storage section stores usage priorities of the trays by sheet type based on the contents stored in the first storage section and a sheet stack capacity of each tray. The controller decides a first tray for outputting a third sheet that is output this time based on the priorities stored in the second storage section.
US08235384B2	Sheet-material transporting device and image forming apparatus A sheet-material transporting device includes a transporting belt configured to attract a sheet material and transport the sheet material along a transporting direction, the transporting belt including a plurality of electrodes arranged at predetermined intervals along the transporting direction, wherein the electrodes are sized and shaped extending in a direction intersecting the transporting direction; a pressing roller configured to press the sheet material against an attraction starting position of the transporting belt; and a charging unit configured to apply a voltage to the electrodes. The sheet-material transporting device is characterized in that the sheet material is attracted to the transporting belt after the leading edge of the sheet material is pressed against the transporting belt by the pressing roller, or the charging unit is configured such that the voltage is not applied upstream of a nip of the pressing roller in the transporting direction.
US08235381B2	Device for processing paper sheets or the like A paper sheet processing apparatus allowing easy insertion of a paper sheet such as a bill into an insertion slot is provided, although it is difficult to push the paper sheet for insertion because it is easily bent. The bill processing apparatus according to the present invention includes: an open/close member to be opened and closed with respect to a frame; a bill insertion slot formed such that a bill is capable of being inserted therebetween when the open/close member is closed with respect to the frame; a frame member mounted to the bill insertion opening and having a vertical frame piece along a thickness direction of the bill insertion slot and a horizontal frame piece along a lateral direction formed integrally with each other.
US08235380B2	Mailpiece selector device having improved levers A mailpiece selector device comprising a guide co-operating with at least one opposing selector roller to separate mailpieces one-by-one from a stack of mailpieces and to transport them downstream, said guide having at least one selector lever that can pivot about a pivot axis against resilient return means, and the selector lever having a vertical section formed by an involute of a circle, the base circle of which is formed by the pivot axis.
US08235377B2	Multi-mode unstacker device for unstacking mailpieces A mailpiece unstacker device comprises a feed magazine for moving the mailpieces in a stack and on edge in a certain direction towards an unstacker head. It is provided with materials sensors for delivering signals indicating that a current mailpiece has a cover made of a plastics material and/or includes a metal material. A control unit forces the feed magazine and the unstacker head to operate as a function of the signals generated by the sensors so that the mailpieces are presented facing the unstacker head in positions that are inclined backwards to various extents.
US08235372B2	Web guiding apparatus A web guiding apparatus is provided. The web guiding apparatus includes an angle bar and an angle bar support supporting the angle bar. The angle bar support has a first end portion and a second end portion. The web guiding apparatus also includes a first actuator coupled to the angle bar support for moving the first end portion along a vertical axis and a second actuator coupled to the angle bar support for moving the second end portion along a horizontal axis. A folder for a printing press is also provided.
US08235370B2	Clamp device A clamp device includes a grip member, a clamp rod, and a hydraulic cylinder, and, by the grip member being inserted into an hole in a workpiece, it can grip the inner circumferential surface of the hole. The clamp device is provided with: a main body member; seating surfaces formed upon the main body member, upon which the workpiece is seated; a seating sensor that includes a pressurized air ejection hole opening to the seating surfaces; and a workpiece mounting surface that can receive and stop a workpiece at a position that is more advanced than the seating surfaces when the grip member is at an advanced position (its unclamped state), and that shifts together with the grip member during clamp operation when the grip member and the clamp rod shift towards retraction.
US08235365B2	Natural draft air cooled steam condenser and method An air cooled condenser apparatus has a tubular shell having an open upper end and an open lower end, a ring of tube bundle panels disposed generally vertically and at an angle to each other, with each of the tube bundles having a primary condenser region and a secondary condenser region, and adapted for air flow therethrough to condense fluid in the panels, and configured so that air flow through the panels passes through and exits the open upper end of the shell, and a duct disposed at the ground level of the shell, and a non-condensable extraction system with active or passive devices to control the local rate of the evacuated mixture of non-condensables and attached steam.
US08235364B2	Reagent dispensing apparatuses and delivery methods This invention relates to a vapor or liquid phase reagent dispensing apparatus that may be used for dispensing vapor or liquid phase reagents such as precursors for deposition of materials in the manufacture of semiconductor materials and devices. The vapor phase reagent dispensing apparatus has a single port capable of receiving a carrier gas and dispensing a vapor phase reagent. The liquid phase reagent dispensing apparatus has a single port capable of receiving an inert gas and dispensing a liquid phase reagent.
US08235363B2	Air-cooled heat exchanger with hybrid supporting structure A cooling tower module features at least one heat exchange panel, a central column, a horizontal beam extending outward from the central column, and a first side structure connected to the horizontal beam to support the horizontal beam and connected to the panel to provide support to the at least one heat exchange panel. A cooling tower facility has one or more modules. The facility can cool fluid or condense steam by interaction with ambient air.
US08235356B2	Air valve for a paint gun An air valve for a paint gun includes a closure member configured for fitting in a valve chamber of a paint gun, which valve chamber intersects an air flow chamber of the gun. The closure member having two sealing points which, in use, when the valve is in its closed configuration, seal against an inner surface of the valve chamber at opposing sides of the air flow chamber thereby closing the airflow chamber. The valve further includes a conduit passing through the closure member providing fluid communication between the first and second sealing surfaces, and a biasing element for biasing the closure member into the closed position when no external load is applied.
US08235353B2	Water faucet device and method of manufacturing water faucet equipment containing same The present invention is a water faucet device (2a) connected to pipes and buried in a mounting surface (W1), including: a water conveying portion main body (20) having an inflow-side connecting portion (20a), an outflow-side connecting portion (20b), and double pipe connecting portions (20c, 20d) respectively communicating with these; a push valve (30) opened and closed by a pushing operation; a valve receiving main body, positioned at a predetermined position relative to the mounting surface, and having double pipe joining portions (26a, 26b) slidably joined to a double pipe connecting portion in a direction approximately perpendicular to the mounting surface, and a push valve receiving recess (26c) for receiving the push valve; and a push button unit (10a) disposed on the mounting surface, furnished with a push button (12b) for pushing the operating portion of a push valve.
US08235352B2	Diaphragm valve for irrigation systems A diaphragm valve for use in an irrigation system is disclosed that is adapted to reduce the water hammer effect, reduce debris in a flow path through a valve seat, improve bleed operation and/or reduce manufacturing and materials costs.
US08235350B2	Hydraulic unit support structure A hydraulic unit support structure includes a bracket (40) having a slot (50) and seat surfaces formed around the slot, and a shock-absorbing member (70) attached to the hydraulic unit (10). The shock-absorbing member (70) is fitted into the slot (50) of the bracket so that the hydraulic unit is supported on the bracket by the shock-absorbing member. The shock-absorbing member has a small-diameter portion (74) inserted into the slot of the bracket and large-diameter portions (76, 78) making contact with the seat surfaces of the bracket around the slot. The slot of the bracket has an insertion-fit region (52) formed at one end of the slot in the long-axis direction and a reduced width region formed at a position spaced apart from the one end in the long-axis direction by a distance substantially equal to the diameter of the small-diameter portion.
US08235344B1	Guitar holder A guitar holder comprising a mounting member for mounting to a structure, a main body rotatably attached to the mounting member for angularly rotating the main body with respect to the structure, and two arm portions extending from the main body in generally opposing directions with each arm portion having a guitar engaging end for attachably engaging a guitar and at least one arm portion being adjustably extendable from the main body to accommodate guitars of different sizes.
US08235341B2	Wall mounting device A wall mounting device for a flat panel display includes a wall bracket and a mounting bracket. The wall bracket is adapted to be directly coupled to a wall and includes a top rail and a bottom rail. The mounting bracket is adapted to be coupled to the flat panel display, and includes first and second plate members connected to each other and defining an upper end and a lower end. At the upper end, the mounting bracket includes a hook to engage the top rail of the wall bracket. At the lower end, the mounting bracket includes a spring clip that selectively engages the bottom rail of the wall bracket.
US08235337B2	Vacuum lifter A vacuum suction device is provided for temporary fixing on a substantially smooth, air-impermeable fixing area, including a supporting cup (3) and a flexible suction plate (4) as well as an actuating mechanism for creating a partial vacuum between the suction plate and the fixing area while dislocating the suction plate at least in parts thereof, wherein a vacuum indication device (15) for indicating the partial vacuum is provided. To provide a constructionally simple indication device by which a decrease in partial vacuum can be easily and reliably detected even by a non-trained individual and even under different environmental conditions, the vacuum indication device is provided with an indicating element (16), which is mechanically coupled to the suction plate. By the indicating element (16), a change in partial vacuum can be optically and/or haptically detected and indicated. The indication device can be integrated in the actuating element.
US08235336B2	Vacuum suction base A vacuum suction base includes a base, a fixing mechanism secured on the base, an adjusting cam, and an adjusting bolt. The base includes a suction piece and a column extending upwardly from the center of the suction piece. The fixing mechanism includes a column housing resisting an edge of the suction piece, and a sleeve connected to the column and defining a through hole. The adjusting cam is rotatably installed in the through hole and partially extends out from the through hole. One end of the adjusting bolt is fixed in the adjusting cam and the other end is engaged in the column.
US08235335B2	Multi-display device There is provided a multi-display device capable of displaying the entity of an image even in a case of a large image to be displayed, and capable of changing a horizontally long image screen to a vertically long image screenor vice versa by utilizing no mechanism for rotating, by 90 degrees, a display section and any specific soft therefor. For this purpose, the multi-display device is characterized by arranging a plurality of basic displays each having a function as a display in at least either one of vertical direction and horizontal direction.
US08235331B2	Duct supporting apparatus Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for supporting a flexible duct. The apparatus comprises a concave duct support structure with a convoluted anterior end and one or more straps. The concave duct support structure is placed in contact with outer surface of the flexible duct. The convoluted anterior end supports curved surfaces of the flexible duct. The concave duct support structure comprises multiple slits. The straps pass through the slits of the concave duct support structure. Distal ends of the straps may be affixed to a structural member for suspending the flexible duct supported on the concave duct support structure. The concave duct support structure prevents the flexible duct from sagging and crimping, thereby allowing free flow of air, liquids, etc. through the flexible duct.
US08235326B2	Aircraft landing gear load sensor An aircraft landing gear comprising a fibre optic load sensor for monitoring load in a component of the landing gear, such as an axle. The fibre optic cable is mounted on an inner surface of the component of the landing gear. Typically the fibre optic load sensor comprises one or more Bragg Grating sensors.
US08235325B2	Fan variable area nozzle positional measurement system A positional measurement system for a fan variable area nozzle (FVAN) remotely determines the position of each flap or set of flaps relative a core nacelle. The positional measurement system includes a sensor system with a multiple of transceivers located within the core nacelle to remotely measure the position of each flap or set of flaps without the heretofore necessity of moving measurement components.
US08235324B1	Rotorcraft with electrically driven blade control A helicopter uses multiple redundant harmonic drive motors on the rotor head to actuate the angle of attack of rotor blades at the rotor blade roots, providing collective control that, in combination with a system for providing cyclic control on the rotor blades, eliminates the need for a swashplate, thereby advantageously reducing the weight and maintenance cost of the helicopter, increasing its reliability, and reducing its vulnerability to ballistic attack.
US08235319B2	Disposal of human remains An alkaline hydrolysis unit, and method of using the same to dispose of a cadaver, the alkaline hydrolysis unit comprising: a chamber for receiving a cadaver to be chemically decomposed, the chamber including a head-receiving part intended to receive the head of a cadaver; a recirculation pump fluidly connected to the chamber of the alkaline hydrolysis unit and adapted to recirculate fluids within the chamber; a head retaining means locatable in the chamber for retaining the head of the cadaver in the head-receiving part of the chamber; and at least one recirculation jet fluidly connected to the recirculation pump and positioned to aim fluid from the recirculation pump at the head-receiving part of the chamber.
US08235316B1	Macerating apparatus and method A macerating apparatus for a toilet in which the problem of jamming the macerator at startup is solved by rapidly detecting the flushing of the toilet and accelerating the macerator before motion-jamming solid objects in the effluent from the toilet can reach the macerator. The macerating apparatus may be comprised of a macerating cutter operatively connected to a motor, and a sensor in communication with the motor. The sensor may detect the flow of effluent from the toilet toward the macerator, the flow of makeup water from the supply tank into the toilet, or the mechanical action of the mechanism used to flush the toilet. The apparatus may include an intake basket having an asymmetric inlet tube and containing the macerating cutter, wherein the asymmetry of the inlet tube provides additional operating clearance between a cutting blade of the macerating cutter and the intake basket.
US08235314B2	Nonequilibrium humidity control for jet milling A process for the jet milling of particles where water vapor is added to the jet milling system. The temperature, pressure and relative humidity of the water vapor is maintained and adjusted to ensure that the water vapor present during micronization is greater than allowed under equilibrium conditions, but remains above its Wilson point.
US08235313B2	Method of making proppants used in gas or oil extraction A method of making frac sand having a selected grade from a naturally occurring, mined sand having a SiO2 content of at least about 80 percent and having a particle size range where the maximum particle size is less than about 8.0 mm, comprising: crushing the mined sand into an intermediate particulate material; screening the particulate material into a feedstock with particles having a particle size coarser than about 350 mesh and initial values for roundness and sphericity of the particles; passing the particles of the feedstock through a blast tube with an outlet to pneumatically abrade the particles and propel the feedstock in a stream under a given pressure from the outlet; directing the pressurized stream against a fixed target located at a given distance from said outlet to physically abrade the particles to form an output mass containing abraded particles: and, repeating operations (c) and (d) a number of times or process stages until the particles resulting from the repeatedly abraded output mass is a final output mass having both processed roundness and sphericity values of at least 0.6 and wherein the values are greater than the initial values of the feedstock by at least about 0.10 to 0.50.
US08235310B2	Spraying device with interchangeable cartridge A spraying device is provided that includes a cartridge containing a first fluid, the cartridge being removably connected to a sprayer body. The cartridge is oriented such that gravity exerts a downward force on the first fluid. The sprayer body includes a conduit for receiving a second fluid. A valve is coupled to the conduit. The valve allows the second fluid to flow through the valve, thus creating a Venturi vacuum that draws the first fluid out of the cartridge and into the valve to enable the first and second fluids to mix and form an outlet stream. An orifice meters a predetermined amount of the first fluid into the valve to achieve a predetermined ratio of the first fluid to the second fluid. The outlet stream is then dispensed from a spray nozzle.
US08235307B2	Clamp for connecting a wire to a rail A clamp comprising a first end including a base and a hooked portion and a second end moveably connected to the base of the first end. The second end includes a clamped portion and a wire jaw maintaining a wire. The wire jaw is shaped so as to be placed in the second end. The wire jaw including a base and arms extending from the base. The arms defining an opening including teeth, the teeth effective to grip and provide high contact pressure on a rail. A spring is disposed on the base of the first end and is effective to bias the second end toward the hooked portion of the first end.
US08235304B2	Control device for at least one heating, air-conditioning, ventilation or refrigeration system The invention concerns a control device for at least one heating, air-conditioning, ventilation or refrigeration system with a memory for a temperature control program and a signal outlet. It is endeavoured to simplify the programming. For this purpose, the memory is arranged in an element (5), which comprises a communication interface (6) and which can be dismounted from the control device, the communication interface (6) being connectable to an external input device and the control device (1) comprising an electrical supply device (3) which can transmit electrical energy to the element (5).
US08235303B2	Two-dimensional code having rectangular region provided with specific patterns to specify cell positions and distinction from background A two-dimensional code having a rectangular region is provided. In the rectangular region, there are code blocks composed of a plurality of cells, a first specific pattern specifying the positions of the cells, and a second specific pattern separating the code blocks from a background of the code. The first specific pattern is located at a specified corner of the rectangular region. The second specific pattern is located along one or more of first borders along which the first specific pattern is located, the first borders being part of the borders of the rectangular region. The code blocks include error-correction code blocks, which are located along second borders which are different from a border of the borders along which the second specific pattern is located. The second borders are part of the borders. Compressed data code blocks are also arranged in the same way as the error-correction code blocks.
US08235302B2	Identification features Methods for providing pharmaceutical compositions and objects with identification regions and identification features which are difficult to detect. Microlithography, nanolithography, and stamping methods are used. The identification features can be positive protrusions or negative indentations with respect to the surface. The identification regions can comprise bar codes and holograms. DPN printing or other lithographies such as electron beam lithography, optical lithography, or nanoimprint lithography can be used to prepare stamps, which are then used to prepare the identification features. Redundant patterns can be formed. The invention is useful for counterfeit prevention. An apparatus for stamping the identification features is also described.
US08235296B2	Method of and system for setting laser processing conditions, laser processing system, computer program for setting laser processing conditions, computer readable medium and recording device on which laser processing conditions are recorded A laser method of printing a pattern on works which is read at a high read rate by optical readers and a system for implementing the laser processing method are described. Print pattern data is generated based on printing conditions including at least an original print pattern such as a character string that are specified by users and then converted into data representing an actual print pattern to be actually printed on works according to a three dimensional profile of the works so that an orthogonal projection of that actual print pattern is identical with the original print pattern.
US08235295B2	Data card insertion device A data card insertion device, in particular for a tachograph of a motor vehicle, with a front panel having a slot-shaped receiving opening through which a data card can be inserted. The device also has a sealing device behind, in the direction of insertion of the data card, which has an insertion slot behind the receiving opening, in the direction of insertion, for the sealed insertion of the data card.
US08235293B2	Methods and devices for determining bit time mix choices of frequencies of optically transmitted barcodes Barcodes stored by mobile devices can be used in commerce. In sending barcode data optically from a display backlight of a mobile communication device to a barcode scanner optical receiver, the transmitted data bit time needs to be compatible with the frequency range the barcode scanner is designed to receive. The disclosed methods and mobile devices can send barcode data optically at different frequencies from a modulated display backlight to different models/makes of laser barcode scanners that may be used at a point of sale (POS). The disclosed are methods and devices for processing the bit time mix choices make a determination of bit time mix choices based upon predetermined criteria. Location of the device is an example of predetermined criteria. A location may have a particular bit time mix signature that may be accessed, for example, in a look up table.
US08235287B2	Read head device with slot configured to reduce torque A read head system has a housing and a read positioned in the housing with a slot for swiping a magnetic stripe of a financial transaction card with the slot utilized to enable a financial transaction between a buyer and seller. The read head reads data on the magnetic stripe and produces a signal indicative of data stored on the magnetic stripe. The read head includes an output jack configured to be coupled to at least one of a audio jack or microphone port of a mobile device. The read head provides the signal to the mobile device. The slot is oriented and sized to reduce torque applied on the read head as the financial transaction card is swiped through slot in order to maintain accuracy and reliability of the data read by the read head. Decoding of the signal is performed in the mobile device. The decoding includes determining pulses in the signal and converting at least some of the pulses to characters.
US08235284B1	Systems, methods and apparatus for receiving images of one or more checks Images of a plurality of checks to be presented for payment may be captured through the use of a check sleeve. The check sleeve includes check-holding mechanism to hold one or more checks in place in the sleeve, and contains various types of markings or other features that allow an image of the sleeve to be oriented, and to allow the portion of the image that represents a check to be distinguished from portions of the image that do not represent a check. One or more algorithms may be used to distinguish check from non-check portions of the image, and to orient the image. The check sleeves may have one or more barcodes imprinted thereon, which may encode various types of information.
US08235283B2	Banking system operated responsive to data read from data bearing records A system includes automated banking machines that operate responsive to data read from data bearing records. Transactions may also be carried out through communication with local and remote service providers. An automated banking machine (322) operative to conduct transactions including cash dispensing for users responsive to data read from user cards and through communication with a transaction host (336). The machine is also operative to provide output signals which drive external displays (328, 330). A machine processor is operative to cause the machine to receive visual and/or audio content from content sources (342, 343) and to store data corresponding to the content. The content is then output through the external displays.
US08235282B2	Dynamic hold decisioning using adjusted deposit amount Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatuses for determining, communicating, and/or executing hold decisions for deposit items. For example, a method is provided that includes: (a) receiving information associated with a deposit item; (b) determining an actual deposit amount identified by the deposit item; (c) determining a payee account to receive the deposit item and a drawer account on which the deposit item is drawn; (d) determining a hold limit for the payee account; (e) determining an adjusted deposit amount for the deposit item based at least partially on: (i) the actual deposit amount identified by the deposit item, and (ii) one or more characteristics associated with the drawer account, and (f) determining a hold decision for the deposit item based at least partially on a comparison of the adjusted deposit amount to the hold limit.
US08235278B2	Press method and press apparatus A press apparatus includes a mounting table and a pressing member. A workpiece formed of a plurality of laminated core sheets is placed on the mounting table, and the pressing member is used for pressing the workpiece on the mounting table from above. The mounting table is supported by a base member so as to be loosely movable in a horizontal plane. When the pressing member is lowered, a positioning member determines the position of the workpiece such that the core sheets of the workpiece are aligned along a single vertical axis.
US08235277B2	Sputtering target assembly and method of making same A method for producing a sputtering target assembly bonded to a backing plate. The method includes bonding a target to a high strength backing plate and further creating a vacuum seal between the target and the backing plate using friction stir welding processes.
US08235275B1	Braze foil for high-temperature brazing and methods for repairing or producing components using a braze foil An amorphous braze foil (1) produced by a melt-spin process has an upper side and a lower side. The upper side and the lower side are thinly coated with a film of metallic Ni-based, Co-based, or Ni—Co-based braze powder (2) with a particle size in the nanometer range, wherein both the braze foil (1) and also the braze powder (2) additionally include grain boundary stabilizing elements as alloying elements. In addition, melting point depressants can be present in the braze foil or in the nano braze powder (2) in a commercially common quantity or with a considerably increased proportion. With the braze foil (1) coated in this manner, both the melting temperature of the braze material and also the probability of recrystallization are advantageously reduced when brazing in the adjacent base material (10).
US08235270B2	Fastening tool holding bracket One example of the invention is a holding bracket for attachment to a fastening tool, the fastening tool having a barrel for firing a fastener, the tool defining a major axis, the holding bracket for holding overlapping portions of two members to be fastened to one another. An example holding bracket comprises a mounting portion configured for attachment to the tool and an extension portion extending from the mounting portion. A holding arm is attached to the extension portion and spaced apart from the mounting portion in the direction of the tool major axis to define a gap between the holding arm and the mounting portion, the gap for holding the overlapping portions of the two members for insertion of a fastener ejected from the barrel.
US08235267B2	Hitch-mountable bicycle carrier A bicycle rack for carrying bicycles behind a vehicle includes a tongue configured for connection to a vehicle hitch. A base portion includes wheel trays for supporting the wheels of a bicycle in cooperation with a slidable hook for contacting the top tube of a bicycle.
US08235263B1	Retention holster having a guard and guard release A holster for a handgun, comprising a holster body defining a cavity for receiving and holding a handgun; a retention guard pivotably coupled to the body, wherein the retention guard is pivotable between a closed position for securing a handgun within the cavity and an open position for removal of the handgun; and a guard release lever for releasably securing the retention guard in the closed position, wherein the guard release lever is biased to a guard retention position, but wherein the guard release lever is capable of being pivoted to a guard release position when a user's thumb/finger applies a pivoting force to the thumb/finger engagement portion such that the guard locking portion is sufficiently withdrawn from the guard locking means to allow the retention guard to pivot to the open position.
US08235262B1	Magnetic implement holder A holder for securing a writing implement to a worn article is described. The holder includes a magnet fixed with the worn article and a magnetically-attractive base having a lower surface, an upper surface, and a peripheral edge. The upper surface includes two slots therein. The holder also includes a clamp portion having two ends adapted to engage the two slots of the upper surface of the base, and an elastomeric band securing the clamp portion to the slots of the upper surface of the base that retains the writing implement. The writing implement may be inserted between the clamp piece and the base, thereby pushing the ends of the clamp portion away from, but not completely out of, the slots of the upper surface of the base. The base, writing implement, clamp portion, and elastic band are magnetically attachable to the worn article with the magnet.
US08235258B2	Systems for the control and use of fluids and particles The configuration of a feedstock material is controlled by bringing it into contact with at least a first gas moving against it at a location with an area and thickness of the feedstock liquid that forms drops or fibers of a selected size. In one embodiment, drops of agricultural input materials are formed for spraying on agricultural fields. In another embodiment, nanofibers of materials such as chitosan or metals are formed. In another embodiment seeds are planted with gel. In another embodiment particles carrying desired agricultural inputs with modified release characteristics are delivered.
US08235250B2	Dispenser with two flexible tubes A dispenser includes a flexible outer tube, a flexible inner tube in the outer tube, a plunger switch, a spring biased valve assembly having a rotation actuator, and a cap. After cap removal, a rotation of the rotation actuator enables an extrusion of a material in the outer tube out of the spout of the valve assembly via a material dispensation tunnel of the rotation actuator when the outer tube is depressed. A further rotation of the rotation actuator enables an extrusion of a material in the inner tube out of the spout of the valve assembly via the material dispensation tunnel when the outer tube is depressed. A still further rotation of the rotation actuator enables a mixed extrusion of the materials in both the inner and outer tubes out of the spout of the valve assembly via the material dispensation tunnel when the outer tube is depressed.
US08235248B2	Automatic tablet packing apparatus having sliding rack Disclosed is an automatic tablet packing apparatus having sliding racks, wherein tablets received in a plurality of tablet cassettes are successively packed on a per dose basis based on a medical prescription. Each of the sliding racks includes a pair of left and right partition walls, a tablet discharge passage to guide the tablets discharged from the tablet cassettes being defined by facing inner surfaces of the left and right partition walls. Cassette pedestals are attached to outer surfaces of the left and right partition walls and in turn, the tablet cassettes are detachably arranged on the cassette pedestals. The left and right partition walls are able to be individually pulled out from a body of the apparatus. As the left or right partition wall is pulled out, the tablet discharge passage is revealed to the outside thus enabling easy cleaning thereof.
US08235245B2	Detachable grip device having activation buttons for opening jaw-forming elements A detachable grip device has a body, two jaw-forming elements which are mobile in relation to each other between an open position and a closed position, a system for displacing the jaw-forming elements which are designed in such a way as to be able to alternate between a stable closing state and a stable opening state, via an intermediate state of unstable equilibrium, and a system for opening the jaw-forming elements. The opening system is adapted in such a way as to drive the displacement system initially in their closed state past the intermediate state of unstable equilibrium. The opening system comprises at least one button which is arranged on a longitudinal side of the body and is mounted in a sliding manner according to a direction of displacement having a component in the transverse direction.
US08235244B2	Container end closure with arcuate shaped chuck wall A beverage can end is provided which utilizes less material and has an improved internal buckle strength based on the geometric configuration of a chuck wall, inner panel wall and central panel, and which, in one embodiment utilizes an arcuate shaped chuck wall with a radius of curvature between about 0.140 inches and 0.250 inches.
US08235242B2	Anti-sloshing structure for LNG cargo tank The present invention relates to anti-sloshing LNG cargo tanks to mitigate a sloshing phenomenon. The anti-sloshing LNG cargo tank having a first barrier for preventing leakage of a cryogenic LNG, a second barrier and an insulation pad provided to supplement the first barrier, includes: an anti-sloshing bulkhead for partitioning a space in the LNG cargo tank into a plurality of spaces to reduce a sloshing phenomenon of the LNG that moves in the LNG cargo tank; and a stool part united at a first surface thereof to an inner wall of an LNG carrier body and united at a second surface thereof to the anti-sloshing bulkhead to fasten the anti-sloshing bulkhead to the inner wall of the LNG cargo tank. The stool part is coupled to the first barrier and the second barrier and having the insulation pad therein, thus preventing the cryogenic LNG from leaking towards the inner wall of the LNG carrier body or from exchanging heat with the inner wall of the LNG carrier body.

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