最新美国发明专利第2012-08-21期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08247775B2	Remote optothermal sensor (ROSE) standoff detection of CWAs, explosives vapors and TICs A system and method for standoff detection of explosives, CWAs and TICs using optical techniques. Preliminary analysis indicates detection of TNT at a distance of 0.5 km with a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 10,000. The optical/thermal techniques apparently permit unambiguous detection of the target molecules even the presence of commonly encountered interferents. The technique, named Remote Optothermal Sensor (ROSE), has the potential for standoff detection at distances greater than one (1) kilometer.
US08247773B2	Method and apparatus for reading identification mark on surface of wafer An identification mark constituted of irregularities is formed on the surface of a wafer, which is sealed with a resin layer and a dicing tape may be adhered to the backside. Multiple infrared units irradiate infrared rays towards the surface of the wafer from the backside thereof, wherein they transmit through the wafer and are then reflected at the interface between the resin layer and the surface of the wafer, thus producing reflected rays. An image pickup device picks up an image of the interface including the identification mark based on reflected rays. Optical axes of the infrared units extend to cross the surface of the wafer in different directions; hence, the image pickup device receives only a part of reflected rays, which are reflected at the interface in a prescribed direction. A polarizer can be arranged in proximity to the infrared unit or the image pickup device.
US08247772B2	Infrared positioning apparatus and system thereof An infrared positioning apparatus comprises a plurality of infrared diodes, a plurality of amplifying units, a plurality of converting units and a positioning unit. The plurality of infrared diodes is configured to detect at least one infrared signal. The plurality of amplifying units are configured to amplify the at least one infrared signal for obtaining at least one amplified signal. The plurality of converting units are configured to convert the at least one amplified signal for obtaining at least one strength value of the at least one amplified signal. The positioning unit is configured to obtain the emitting direction of the at least one infrared signal in accordance with the at least one strength value of the at least one amplified signal.
US08247771B2	Device for detection and/or emission of electromagnetic radiation and method for fabricating such a device The device for detection and/or emission of radiation has an encapsulation micropackage in a vacuum or under reduced pressure that comprises a cap and a substrate delineating a sealed housing. The housing encapsulates at least one uncooled thermal detector and/or emitter having a membrane sensitive to electromagnetic radiation suspended above the substrate, a reflector and at least one getter. The getter is arranged on at least a part of a second main surface of the reflector to form a reflector/getter assembly. A free space, releasing an accessible surface of the getter and in communication with the housing, is also formed between the reflector/getter assembly and the front surface of the substrate.
US08247770B2	Thermal imaging camera and method for the determination of the lens parameters of an IR interchangeable lens of a thermal imaging camera In a thermal imaging camera (1) with an IR sensor arrangement (2) and an interchangeable IR lens (5), an image processing unit (12) and a data processing unit (13) are provided with which at least one feature (8, 9) can be extracted from a recorded IR image (6) and a numerical value (14) can be derived from this feature, wherein the numerical value (14) is determined by the distortion of the interchangeable IR lens (5), and a mapping (16) of lens characteristics (17, 18, 19) with the determinable numerical values (14) is stored.
US08247769B2	Characterization of nanoscale structures using an ultrafast electron microscope The present invention relates to methods and systems for 4D ultrafast electron microscopy (UEM)—in situ imaging with ultrafast time resolution in TEM. Single electron imaging is used as a component of the 4D UEM technique to provide high spatial and temporal resolution unavailable using conventional techniques. Other embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and systems for convergent beam UEM, focusing the electron beams onto the specimen to measure structural characteristics in three dimensions as a function of time. Additionally, embodiments provide not only 4D imaging of specimens, but characterization of electron energy, performing time resolved electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS).
US08247768B2	Method for stem sample inspection in a charged particle beam instrument A method for sample examination in a dual-beam FIB calculates a first angle as a function of second, third and fourth angles defined by the geometry of the FIB and the tilt of the specimen stage. A fifth angle is calculated as a function of the stated angles, where the fifth angle is the angle between the long axis of an excised sample and the projection of the axis of the probe shaft onto the X-Y plane. The specimen stage is rotated by the calculated fifth angle, followed by attachment to the probe tip and lift-out. The sample may then be positioned perpendicular to the axis of the FIB electron beam for STEM analysis by rotation of the probe shaft through the first angle.
US08247767B2	Particle detection and applications in security and portal monitoring Techniques, apparatus and systems for detecting particles such as muons. In one implementation, a monitoring system has a cosmic ray-produced charged particle tracker with a plurality of drift cells. The drift cells, which can be for example aluminum drift tubes, can be arranged at least above and below a volume to be scanned to thereby track incoming and outgoing charged particles, such as cosmic ray-produced muons, while also detecting gamma rays. The system can selectively detect devices or materials, such as iron, lead, gold and/or tungsten, occupying the volume from multiple scattering of the charged particles passing through the volume and can also detect any radioactive sources occupying the volume from gamma rays emitted therefrom. If necessary, the drift tubes can be sealed to eliminate the need for a gas handling system. The system can be employed to inspect occupied vehicles at border crossings for nuclear threat objects.
US08247766B2	Device for generating wide spectral band laser pulses, particularly for a tomographic atom probe A wide spectral band laser pulse generating device capable of covering a spectrum formed of given wavelengths is provided, including: a monochromatic laser light source whose intensity is adjustable; non-linear optical means, a photonic crystal or a microstructured optical fiber for example, for carrying out spectral widening of the wave emitted by the light source; the light source and the non-linear optical means are configured and arranged so as to create a white supercontinuum whose continuous spectrum contains the wavelengths considered. The invention relates to the general field of the analysis of the composition of material specimens, and in particular to laser tomographic atom probes.
US08247764B2	Method and apparatus to sharply focus aerosol particles at high flow rate and over a wide range of sizes A method and an apparatus are described to focus sharply a wide range of particle sizes for particles suspended in a relatively high flow rate of carrier gas. The particles are accelerated through a continuously converging ladder of smooth contractions, each designed such that: (i) the flow remains laminar at substantial Reynolds numbers; (ii) a certain band of particle sizes is focused in each contraction, without substantial defocusing of larger particle focused in one or several preceding contractions; (iii) the form, length, and ratio of entry to exit diameter of each contraction, as well as the number of consecutive contractions are chosen such that all particles within a given relatively wide range of sizes are focused at the end of the ladder of contraction steps into a relatively narrow focal region. The focusing apparatus coupled to a collector device constitutes a new type of virtual impactor, termed a focusing virtual impactor, which can also be used as a powerful particle concentrator.
US08247762B2	Selective molecular excitation method and isotope separation method using the same, isotope analysis method, selective molecular excitation apparatus and isotope separation apparatus Molecules of a specific species can be selectively excited among molecules of a plurality of species that show only a slight difference of mass. Energy levels can be displayed on a graph where the horizontal axis indicates excitation energy. Assume an instance where an electromagnetic wave showing a comb-shaped spectrum having a plurality of narrow bands as indicated by P1 through P14 and tuning with excitation energies corresponding to the rotational levels of molecule X is irradiated onto the molecule X. The molecule X can sequentially make transitions to higher energy levels by using an electromagnetic wave showing such a comb-shaped spectrum. The energy levels of molecule Y are not synchronized with the comb-shaped spectrum. The two ranges of Y4 through Y7 and Y12 through Y15 operate as gates and the molecule Y cannot make transition from a rotational level to another when a gate is found between them.
US08247761B1	Photoluminescent markings with functional overlayers A photoluminescent marking that includes a photoluminescent layer and at least one functional overlayer is disclosed. The photoluminescent layer comprises at least one type of photoluminescent material. The at least one functional overlayer is adapted to selectively filter wavelengths of radiation to enhance the daylight observability of a final emission signature of the marking or to prevent the observability with the naked eye of a printed message on the marking. Also methods of making and using the inventive photoluminescent marking are disclosed.
US08247757B2	Contact image sensor module with wedge-shaped glass plate for guiding light A contact image sensor module includes an image sensor, a lens unit arranged over the image sensor, a glass plate arranged over the lens unit, and a light source. The lens unit includes a plurality of rod lenses. The glass plate is wedge-shaped and elongated. The glass plate includes a first light interface being rectangular and elongated, and a second light interface and an incident face respectively extending from two opposite longer sides of the first light interface. The incident face faces the light source. The first light interface is substantially perpendicular to the rod lenses. The second light interface is below the first light interface and faces top sides of the rod lenses. Light of the light source is first directed by the glass plate to the document, then reflected by the document to the lens unit via the glass plate and finally reaching the image sensor.
US08247754B2	Solid state focal plane array for hyperspectral imaging applications A focal plane array suitable for use in hyperspectral imaging applications is provided. The focal plane array comprises pixels comprising arrays of photodiodes, wherein each photodiode in each array is selectively sensitive to a different wavelength of a set of wavelengths.
US08247753B2	Solar tracking device and method for high-effective concentration photovoltaic Provided is a high-effective concentration photovoltaic solar tracking device and method; and, more particularly, to a concentration photovoltaic solar tracking device and method, which maximize concentration efficiency by concentrating solar light using a Fresnel lens and moving a solar panel based on focus information formed when the concentrated solar light is irradiated on a photodiode.
US08247751B2	Microwave pressure cooker The invention relates to a microwave pressure cooker including a container open at its top which includes a cover with a gasket adapted for ledge interlock type sealing and lug locking engagement with the container. There are two regulator opening means provided as valve opening through the cover (2) such that one of the deformable diaphragm type pressure regulator means formed are disposed on these regulator opening means which deform responsive to the pressure in the enclosure. A push rod type gasket offset device means is also provided on locking lug and opening and closing aid of the cover for releasably maintaining the container and the cover in sealing engagement. Further a filter is disposed removably on the first regulator opening means, which controls the pressure building within the enclosure.
US08247750B2	Construct for cooking raw dough product in a microwave oven A construct for preparing a food item in a microwave oven includes a plurality of heating regions including an inner heating region and an outer heating region. The inner heating region includes a susceptor including a plurality of annular microwave energy transparent areas, and the outer heating region includes a plurality of susceptor projections extending radially from the susceptor of the inner heating region.
US08247748B2	Induction heating cooker An induction heating cooker includes a cooking container heating coil, an inverter circuit to supply high-frequency current to the heating coil, an infrared ray sensor to detect radiation from the container, an electric power integrating section to integrate heating electric power from the inverter circuit, and a heating control section to control an inverter circuit output. If the power integrating section has less than a predetermined value when an increase in the output of the infrared ray sensor has a first value after start of heating, the cooker shifts to a first heating control mode and, if equal to or more than the predetermined value, shifts to a second heating control mode. The power, in the first heating control mode, is reduced to a second amount of power lower than the first amount and, in the second heating control mode, is a third amount larger than the second amount.
US08247744B2	Cooking device There is provided a cooking device that prevents an electricity conduction setting to a heating source from fluctuating when a user is not intending to operate a touch key. The cooking device includes a heating source for heating an object to be heated; a top plate provided on an upper surface of the device; a touch key that is provided on the top plate and is operable to input a control command by being touched with a finger; a cancel electrode provided at a periphery of the touch key; and a control unit for controlling an electricity conduction to the heating source based on the control command. When detecting that a portion of the top plate near the cancel electrode is touched with the finger, the control unit maintains a condition of electricity conduction to the heating source in time of the detection, and limits an operation based on the control command input to the touch key while detecting that the portion of the top plate near the cancel electrode is being touched with the finger.
US08247739B2	Tubular heating element with temperature sensor A heating element for metallic plastic injection nozzles with a tubular hollow metal body (2), which surrounds the nozzle body of an injection molding device in a heat-transmitting manner. The hollow body has an outer and/or inner jacket surface with one or more grooves (3, 4), extending in a thread-like manner at least in some sections, with inserted tubular heating body structure (with a heating body or bodies) (5). The heating body structure has electric terminals (6, 7) projecting away from the hollow body (2). In addition, a thermocouple, with a sensor tip (9) is in thermal contact with the material wall (15) of the plastic injection nozzle (17) in an end area of the tube wall, is arranged in a guide groove (4). To ensure that the temperature of the material tube, which temperature is to be regulated, is homogeneous at always the same measuring point and is shielded from the direct effect of heating, the sensor tip (9) is fixed in a heat-transmitting manner in a groove-like recess (11) of a tube wall section (20), which is thermally separated from the tube wall (2′) by two front-side notches (21, 22) and which, being subject to a radial pressing force in a radially flexible manner, is in gap-free, two-dimensional thermal contact with the nozzle body (15).
US08247736B2	Apparatus for forming pattern on light guide panel An apparatus for forming a pattern is provided. The apparatus includes a pattern storing unit, a controller, a laser oscillating unit, an X-Y driver, a header unit, and a stage. The pattern storing unit stores data on a light guide pattern. The controller reads out the data on the light guide pattern, and transmits a position signal of each light guide pattern to the X-Y driver and simultaneously, transmits a switching signal to the laser oscillating unit. The laser oscillating unit outputs a laser beam synchronized with a movement of a header unit. The X-Y driver moves the header unit and the stage. The header unit moves along a fixed first guide rail in the left and right direction of the light guide panel. The stage moves along a fixed second guide rail in the front and rear direction of the light guide panel.
US08247732B2	Sensor arrangement for a laser machine tool and an insulator for such a sensor arrangement An insulator for a sensor arrangement of a laser processing machine comprises an outer insulating part of plastics material for electrical shielding and an inner shielding part of a non-conductive heat-resistant material for shielding against laser irradiation and/or heat.
US08247728B2	Apparatus and method for bonding refractory metals An apparatus and method of bonding refractory metal alloys together by use of a modified clamping arrangement.
US08247726B2	Electrical switching apparatus and arc chute assembly therefor An arc chute assembly is provided for an electrical switching apparatus. The electrical switching apparatus includes a housing and separable contacts enclosed by the housing. An arc is generated in response to the separable contacts being separated. The housing includes a number of arc chambers each having a first side and a second side disposed opposite and spaced apart from the first side. The arc chute assembly includes a plurality of first arc plates extending outwardly from the first side of a corresponding one of the arc chambers toward the second side of the corresponding one of the arc chambers, and a plurality of second arc plates extending outwardly from the second side of the corresponding one of the arc chambers toward the first side of the arc chamber. None of the arc plates engages the opposing side of the arc chamber.
US08247723B2	Electronic device An electronic device includes a power switch, an elastic force member adjacent to the power switch, a triggering member fixed on the elastic force member to trigger the power switch, and an elastic reposition member. The triggering member is capable of sliding between a first position and a second position relative to the power switch. The elastic reposition member provides elastic force to move the triggering member from the first position to the second position. In the first position, the triggering member faces the power switch and can be pressed to trigger the power switch. In the second position, the triggering member is away from the power switch.
US08247721B2	Hold switch This invention is directed to a switch for use in an electronic device. As the user actuates the switch, different labels may be visible to indicate to the user the current state of the switch. To allow the switch to be positioned adjacent to an edge of the device, the switch may include only a single label that moves with the switch. For example, the switch may include a label positioned adjacent to a nub that the user may operate. The label may be sized such that only the label is visible when the switch is in a first position. The electronic device may also include a second label that is fixed to a non-moving portion of the electronic device. When the user moves the switch, the switch may move away from and uncover the second label while hiding the label that is included in the switch.
US08247720B2	Sealed pushbutton switch A sealed pushbutton switch includes an insulative housing defining a cavity, an actuator moveably retained in the insulative housing, a base conglutinated to the insulative housing by glue, a number of fixed contacts assembled to the base, a spring mounted below the actuator, and a moveable contact mounted on the actuator and provided with a number of contact portions in contact with corresponding fixed contacts. The moveable contact is moveable with the actuator from a first position to a second position relative to the insulative housing along a top-to-bottom direction to disengage the fixed contacts. The base defines a first slot formed along an edge of a inner face of said base and a second slot formed on a position of the inner face except the edge, the second slot have a connection with the first slot so as to retain glue therein when said base and said housing are fastened together by said glue.
US08247719B2	Button device A button device includes a button unit, a resilient member, and a switch unit. The button unit includes a button, a transparent power icon member, and a retaining member. The power iron member is attached to the button. The retaining member includes an elastic element, a tray located at one end of the elastic element, and a fixing loop located at the other end of the elastic element. The button and the power iron member are retained on the tray. The tray includes a seat with a hole for receiving an illuminator, and reflects lights of the illuminator to the power icon member. The resilient member is sandwiched between the button unit and the switch unit to reset the button unit back to its original position.
US08247718B2	Button structure and related electronic device A button structure for actuating a switch includes a pressing part, a protruding part connected to a side of the pressing part for being driven to actuate the switch when the pressing part is pressed, and a constraining part. An end of the constraining part is connected to the pressing part in an elastically deformable manner. A guiding slot is formed on the constraining part. The button structure further includes a fixing part. An end of the fixing part is disposed inside the guiding slot. The guiding slot slides relative to the fixing part when the pressing part is pressed.
US08247713B2	Slide switch structure and power seat switch using the same A power seat switch includes a structure main body; switches provided in the structure main body; sliders slidably provided in the structure main body and changing over contacts of the switches; and moderation units each including a moderation adjuster fitted into the structure main body and an elastic portion provided on the slider. Each slider includes a shaft and a pair of legs provided on one end of the shaft. The elastic portion is provided to elastically protrude from the one end of the shaft in an axial direction of the shaft. The moderation adjuster includes a moderation groove arranged to be sandwiched between the legs, in contact with the elastic portion, and applying a moderation according to sliding of the slider.
US08247711B2	Intermittent motion checkweigher with offset product pockets An intermittent motion checkweigher for weighing products of interest. The checkweigher includes a product transport wheel having a plurality of product retention pockets, each of which retains one or more products of interest throughout the weighing operation. Products are loaded into a product retention pocket by an in-feed conveyor or similar device, after which the product transport wheel is indexed to advance the products in the product retention pocket toward one or more weighing devices where the products will be weighed while still located in the product retention pocket. After weighing, the products are advanced to a discharge conveyor or similar device by further indexing of the product transport wheel.
US08247707B2	Shielding assembly A shielding assembly includes a hollow frame, a pair of first resilient clips and a cover. The frame defines a receiving room and includes a pair of opposite first sidewalls, a second sidewall, a third sidewall opposite to the second sidewall, and a plurality of platforms configured along at least two diagonal corners of the hollow frame. Each of the resilient clip includes a clamping portion extending to suspend in the receiving room. The first resilient clips and the platforms are cooperatively defining a pair of guiding grooves. The cover is inserted into the guiding grooves and positioned between the platforms and first resilient clips by the clamping portions and the platforms resisting on two sides of the cover respectively.
US08247706B2	Enclosure of an electronic device An enclosure of an electronic device includes an upper shell, a lower shell mounted to the upper shell, and an electrical outlet mounted to the lower shell. The lower shell includes a front plate defining an opening. The electrical outlet includes a connector and a number of wires electrically connected to the connector. An electromagnetic interference absorbing magnetic ring fits about some of the wires. The lower shell further defines a cable channel extending through an edge of the front plate and communicating with the opening. The wires pass through the cable channel and extend through the opening to enter into the lower shell, with the connector covering the opening.
US08247705B2	Circuit substrate and manufacturing method thereof A manufacturing method of a circuit substrate includes the following steps. A dielectric layer is formed on at least one surface of a substrate. An insulating layer is formed on the dielectric layer. A portion of the insulating layer and a portion of the dielectric layer are removed, so as to form at least one blind via in the dielectric layer and the insulating layer. An electroless plating layer is formed on the sidewall of the blind via and a remaining portion of the insulating layer, wherein the binding strength between the insulating layer and the electroless plating layer is greater than that between the dielectric layer and the electroless plating layer. A patterned conductive layer is plated to cover the electroless plating layer.
US08247703B2	Method of making circuitized substrate with resistor including material with metal component and electrical assembly and information handling system utilizing said circuitized substrate A method of making a circuitized substrate including a resistor comprised of material which includes a polymer resin and a quantity of nano-powders including a mixture of at least one metal component and at least one ceramic component. The ceramic component may be a ferroelectric ceramic and/or a high surface area ceramic and/or a transparent oxide and/or a dope manganite. Alternatively, the material will include the polymer resin and nano-powders, with the nano-powders comprising at least one metal coated ceramic and/or at least one oxide coated metal component. An electrical assembly (substrate and at least one electrical component) and an information handling system (e.g., personal computer) utilizing such a circuitized substrate are also provided.
US08247702B2	Integrated circuit mounted board, printed wiring board, and method of manufacturing integrated circuit mounted board An integrated circuit mounted board includes a printed wiring board and an integrated circuit bare chip mounted on the printed wiring board. The printed wiring board includes a metal base, an insulating member made of an insulating material and disposed on the metal base, and a wiring pattern disposed on the insulating member. The wiring pattern includes an electrode part to which the integrated circuit bare chip is electrically coupled. The insulating member includes an under region being opposite to the electrode part. The metal base includes a metal substrate and a metal portion protruding from the metal substrate. The metal portion is buried in the under region of the insulating member.
US08247700B2	Wired circuit board A wired circuit board has a metal supporting board, an insulating layer formed on the metal supporting board, a conductive pattern formed on the insulating layer and having a pair of wires arranged in spaced-apart relation, and a semiconductive layer formed on the insulating layer and electrically connected to the metal supporting board and the conductive pattern. The conductive pattern has a first region in which a distance between the pair of wires is small and a second region in which the distance between the pair of wires is larger than that in the first region. The semiconductive layer is provided in the second region.
US08247699B2	Flex circuit assembly with a dummy trace between two signal traces A flex circuit comprises a base film, a first adhesive layer coupled with the base film, at least two signal traces coupled with the first adhesive layer, and at least one dummy trace positioned between the two signal traces and coupled with the first adhesive layer. The flex circuit comprises a second adhesive layer coupled with the signal traces, the dummy trace, and the first adhesive layer, and a cover film coupled with the second adhesive layer.
US08247695B2	High frequency leakage current return wire-contained motor drive cable, low inductance return wire-contained unshielded cable, and motor drive control system using the cables A high frequency (HF) leakage current return wire-contained motor drive cable configured in a manner that one or multiple drive dielectric core wires and one or multiple HF leakage current return wires are arranged adjacent to and in close contact. Concurrently, the drive dielectric core wires and the HF leakage current return wires are arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction and are stranded; and a sheath is provided without a shield being provided outside of the strand wires.
US08247691B2	Connecting member A connecting member includes a cable, an enclosure, a shaft assembly member and an elastic member. The cable surrounds the shaft assembly member. The shaft assembly member is rotatablely mounted in the enclosure. The elastic member includes a first end and a second end. The first end is secured to the shaft member, and the second end is secured to the enclosure.
US08247690B2	Housing for electronic device A housing for an electronic device includes a main body, a cover, and a sliding control. The main body defines a plurality of restricting grooves. The cover has a plurality of engaging members. The sliding control is slidably positioned on the cover, and fixedly to the engaging members. When the sliding control slides relative to the cover, the engaging members engage in the restricting grooves of the main body, thus fixing the cover to the main body.
US08247685B2	Solar energy harvesting apparatus A solar energy harvesting apparatus is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the apparatus includes a generally elongated, rectangular body having a bottom portion and sidewalls extending from the bottom portion; at least one trough provided in the bottom portion and having a trough base and trough peaks; at least one mirror strip provided along at least one peak of the at least one trough; and a linear solar cell provided along the trough base of the at least one trough.
US08247676B2	Methods for generating music using a transmitted/received music data file Methods for generating music are disclosed. A music data file is generated at a first node. The music data file is transmitted from the first node and received at a second node. Musical definition data that provides information regarding a data structure and data for musical parameters is extracted from the music data file at the second node. The musical definition data is processed and music is generated at the second node for playback in accordance with the data structure and the musical parameters. A modified music data file is generated at the second node and transmitted to the first node. Modified music is generated at the first node based on the modified music data file.
US08247675B2	Brass musical instruments with modifiable tonality In a brass musical instrument having two substantially parallel adjacent braces between portions of the instrument windpath tubing, the improvement comprising a cross-brace extending in planes substantially parallel to a plane of the parallel braces and having two opposed edges each with two spaced contact regions secured to a respective one of the parallel braces and a recessed region between the contact regions, thereby allowing elimination of other windpath bracing and providing a beneficial site for sound-modifying components.
US08247667B1	Maize variety hybrid X03A115 A novel maize variety designated X03A115 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X03A115 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X03A115 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X03A115, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X03A115. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X03A115.
US08247666B1	Inbred maize variety PH17B9 A novel maize variety designated PH17B9 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH17B9 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH17B9 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH17B9 or a locus conversion of PH17B9 with another maize variety.
US08247664B2	Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH458156 According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH458156. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH458156, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH458156 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH458156.
US08247654B2	Event EE-GH5 insect resistant cotton plants and methods of using The invention provides specific transgenic cotton plants, plant material and seeds, characterized in that these products harbor a specific transformation event at a specific location in the cotton genome. Tools are also provided which allow rapid and unequivocal identification of the event in biological samples.
US08247651B2	Nucleic acid sequences encoding proteins associated with abiotic stress response and plant cells with increased tolerance to environmental stress This invention relates generally to nucleic acid sequences encoding proteins that are associated with abiotic stress responses and abiotic stress tolerance in plants. This invention further relates to transformed plant cells with altered metabolic activity compared to a corresponding non transformed wild type plant cell, wherein the metabolic activity is altered by transformation with a Stress-Related Protein (SRP) coding nucleic acid and results in increased tolerance and/or resistance to an environmental stress as compared to a corresponding non-transformed wild type plant cell.
US08247646B2	Method to increase crop grain yield utilizing complementary paired growth and yield genes The present invention provides methods to increase crop yield utilizing transgenic complementary paired genes controlling plant growth and yield. The specific genes increase female reproductive organs and are paired with genes responsible for modifying the growth of non-yield specific plant tissues. Plants, plant progeny, seeds and tissues created by these methods are also described. Polynucleotides encoding the paired sequences are provided for expression in a plant of interest. Expression cassettes, plants, plant cells, plant parts and seeds comprising the sequences of the invention are further provided. In specific embodiments, the polynucleotide is operably linked to a constitutive promoter.
US08247643B2	Genetically modified animal for use in evaluating harmfulness of test substance A genetically modified animal that includes an introduced DNA including a functionally linked aryl hydrocarbon receptor-binding enhancer located 5′-upstream of a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, promoter of any type, reporter gene, and poly(A) addition signal.
US08247642B2	Fluid management device with fluid transport element for use within a body A fluid management device for use in a mammalian body has at least one fluid transport element capable of interfacing with a mammalian body element to provide a substantially uninterrupted fluid conduit. The fluid conduit provides a fluid path between at least one fluid transport element and the storage element. A distal portion of the at least one fluid transport element is capable of extending away from the fluid storage element.
US08247640B2	Highly swellable absorption medium with reduced caking tendency The present invention concerns highly swellable absorption mediums with a reduced caking tendency at high humidity and/or high temperatures, wherein a swellable polymer is coated with a non-ionic, nitrogen-containing surfactant and optionally a Lewis acid and then reacted by heating.
US08247636B2	Fastening tape for a hygiene item, and method for producing a fastening tape for a hygiene item To ensure an excellent slip-proof effect for a hygiene item, in particular for a baby diaper or an incontinence diaper when opening the diaper, a fastening tape is proposed having a separate film-like grip area with a macroscopically structured surface. Likewise, a hygiene item having such a grip area and a method for manufacturing such a fastening tape are proposed.
US08247628B2	Process for reacting iso-alkane A process for reacting an iso-alkane, comprising: a) partially converting one or more olefins in an olefinic feedstock with an ionic liquid catalyst to make a converted olefinic feedstock; and b) alkylating the iso-alkane with the converted olefinic feedstock, wherein a reaction heat that is evolved during the alkylating is at least 20% less than if the alkylating step is done with the iso-alkane and the olefinic feedstock without the partially converting step. Also, a process for reacting an iso-alkane, comprising: a) partially converting one or more olefins in an olefinic feedstock to make a converted olefinic feedstock, wherein the converting is different from isomerization; b) isolating from the converted olefinic feedstock: i. an enriched feed that has linear internal olefins, and ii. products having a boiling point of 150° C. or higher; and c) alkylating the iso-alkane with the enriched feed to make an alkylate gasoline blending component.
US08247617B2	Group 2 metal precursors for depositing multi-component metal oxide films Novel Sr and Ba complexes containing both beta-diketonates and N-methyl-pyrrolidone were synthesized and characterized. TGA experiments indicated these complexes are volatile, they can be employed as precursors for ALD strontium titanate (STO) or barium strontium titanate films (BST) films in semiconductor fabrication.
US08247614B2	Copolycondensation polymerization of fluoropolymers Fluorinated copolymers are prepared via copolycondensation polymerization in a process comprising reacting A) a telechelic fluoroazido compound of formula N3(Y)p—(CH2)n—R—(CH2)m—(Y)pN3, wherein Y is SO, SO2, C6H4, or CO, p=0 or 1, n and m are independently 1 to 4, and R is selected from the group consisting of i) a C3-C10 fluoroalkylene group, ii) a C3-C10 fluoroalkoxylene group, iii) a substituted aryl group, iv) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of vinylidene fluoride and perfluoro(methyl vinyl ether), v) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of vinylidene fluoride and hexafluoropropylene, vi) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of tetrafluoroethylene and perfluoro(methyl vinyl ether), and vii) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of tetrafluoroethylene and a hydrocarbon olefin with B) a telechelic diyne or dinitrile compound in the presence of copper halide catalyst.
US08247613B2	Methods and compositions for the synergistic activation of latent HIV The present invention provides methods and compositions useful for the elimination of latent HIV reservoirs that persist despite HAART. The methods and compositions overcome this latent barrier by inducing the replication of HIV in latently infected T cells while preventing the spread of the newly produced virions to uninfected cells by providing HAART simultaneously. Compositions of the invention comprise an activator of latent HIV expression, such as prostratin, and an inhibitor of histone deacetylase, such as TSA. A surprising finding of this invention is that the inhibitor of the histone deacetylase synergizes the effect of prostratin thus, allowing administering to a patient a lower, non-toxic dose of prostratin.
US08247610B2	Amine linked modulators of γ-secretase The present invention relates to compounds of Formula I as shown below, wherein the definitions of A, X, Y, R1 R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, and R9 are provided in the specification. Compounds of Formula I are useful for the treatment of diseases associated with γ-secretase activity, including Alzheimer's disease.
US08247608B2	Aminoacid derivatives containing a disulfanyl group in the form of mixed disulfanyl and aminopeptidase N inhibitors The invention relates to novel compounds of formula (I): H2N—CH(R1)—CH2—S—S—CH2—CH(R2)—CONH—R5, wherein R1 is a hydrocarbon chain, phenyl or benzyl radical, methylene radical substituted by a 5 or 6 atom heterocycle; R2 is a phenyl or benzyl radical, a 5 or 6 atom aromatic heterocycle, methylene group substituted by a 5 or 6 atom heterocycle; R5 is a CH(R3)—COOR4 radical, wherein R3 is hydrogen, an OH or OR group, a saturated hydrocarbon group, a phenyl or benzyl radical and OR4 is hydrophile ester, or 5 or 6 membered heterocycle comprising several heteroatoms selected from a group consisting of nitrogen, sulphur and oxygen, with at least two nitrogene atoms, wherein said heterocycle is substitutable by an alkyl C1-C6, phenyl or benzyl radical. The use of the inventive compounds in the form of drugs, a pharmaceutical composition comprising said compounds, a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, the use in conjunction of at least one type of cannabinoid derivative for potentiating the analgesic and antidepressant effect of the novel compounds of formula (I) and/or morphine or the derivatives thereof are also disclosed.
US08247600B2	Systems and methods for processing glycerol Systems and methods for processing glycerol into one or more products are provided. In at least one specific embodiment, the method can include decreasing a pH of a mixture comprising glycerol and fatty acids to produce an emulsion comprising a glycerol-rich portion and a fatty acids-rich portion. At least a portion of the glycerol-rich portion can be reacted with an acid comprising phosphorus at conditions sufficient to produce a reacted product comprising glycerophosphoric acid, glycerol, and a portion of the acid.
US08247599B2	Phosphonic acid compounds as inhibitors of serine proteases The present invention is directed to phosphonic acid compounds useful as serine protease inhibitors, compositions thereof and methods for treating inflammatory and serine protease mediated disorders.
US08247596B2	Halogen-containing organosulfur compound and use thereof There is provided a halogen-containing organosulfur compound having an excellent controlling effect on arthropod pests represented by the formula (I): wherein, m represents 0, 1 or 2, n represents 0, 1 or 2, A represents optionally substituted C3-C7 cycloalkyl or optionally substituted C5-C7 cycloalkenyl group, Q represents a C1-C5 haloalkyl group containing at least one fluorine atom, or a fluorine atom, R1 and R3 independently represent optionally substituted C1-C4 chain hydrocarbon, halogen or hydrogen, R2 and R4 independently represent optionally substituted C1-C4 chain hydrocarbon, —C(═G)R5, cyano, halogen or hydrogen, G represents oxygen or sulfur, and R5 represents optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl, hydroxyl, optionally substituted C1-C4 alkoxy, optionally substituted C3-C6 alkenyloxy, optionally substituted C3-C6 alkynyloxy, amino, optionally substituted C1-C4 alkylamino, optionally substituted di(C1-C4 alkyl)amino, C2-C5 cyclic amino or hydrogen.
US08247585B2	Systems and methods for removing catalyst and recovering free carboxylic acids after transesterification reaction Systems and methods for using carbon dioxide to remove an alkali catalyst and to recover free carboxylic acids after a transesterification reaction are disclosed. Generally, the methods include first providing a mixture resulting from the transesterification of an ester, wherein the mixture includes substances selected from the alkali catalyst, an alcohol, and a transesterification reaction product such as biodiesel. Second, the methods generally include adding carbon dioxide to the mixture. In some cases, adding the carbon dioxide to the mixture causes the alkali catalyst to convert into an alkali carbonate and/or an alkali bicarbonate. In other cases, adding the carbon dioxide to the mixture causes the carboxylic acid alkali salt to convert into a free carboxylic acid. In either case, the alkali carbonate, the alkali bicarbonate, and/or the free carboxylic acid can be separated from the mixture in any suitable manner.
US08247579B2	Spirocyclic tetronic acid derivatives The present invention relates to novel spirocyclic tetronic acid derivatives of the formula (I) in which R1, R2 and R3 have the meanings given in the description, to a plurality of processes for their preparation and to their use as pesticides.
US08247572B2	Facilitated transport of bisphosphonates by vitamin C Compounds of the formula: are described wherein: A1 is ascorbic acid, dehydroascorbic acid, ascorbyl-2-phosphate, an analog thereof, or a salt thereof; L is a linking group coupled to A1 at the C5 or C6 position thereof; and B1 is an active agent such as an imaging agent or therapeutic agent (e.g. a bisphosphonate), along with pharmaceutically acceptable salts and prodrugs thereof. The compounds are useful for, among other things, improving cartilage uptake of active agents administered for joint diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and for improving gastrointestinal absorption of bisphosphonates.
US08247571B2	Pyridinium and thiazolium conjugates including polyethylene glycols and methods of using the same Pegylated pyridinium and thiazolium compounds and methods of their use in medicine, research, industry, agriculture and recreational activities are disclosed. The present invention also provides methods of controlling microbial growth and infection. Additionally, the present invention provides methods of controlling microbial infestations relating to industrial and agricultural uses. The present invention can also be used to control insects.
US08247569B2	Cyclohexane derivative and pharmaceutical use thereof A compound has a strong analgesic action against both nociceptive pain and neuropathic pain and has less side effects, and is medically useful. The compound includes cyclohexane derivatives represented by the following compound, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof or prodrugs thereof.
US08247568B2	Process for the preparation of pure rabeprazole The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of pure Rabeprazole sulfoxide using the solvent mixture for the extraction steps and this invention further relates to the process for the preparation of amorphous Rabeprazole sodium using pure rabeprazole base in presence of aqueous NaOH and water miscible solvent and adding an anti-solvent.
US08247567B2	Process for solvent removal from omeprazole salts The present invention relates to a process for removing an organic solvent from a salt of omeprazole, in particular a magnesium salt of omeprazole, a composition comprising a salt of omeprazole, in particular a magnesium salt of omeprazole obtainable by such a process, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising said composition or a salt of omeprazole, in particular a magnesium salt of omeprazole, in particular where omeprazole is S-omeprazole.
US08247559B2	Process for preparing an intermediate to mu opioid receptor antagonists The invention provides an efficient method for preparing 3-endo-(8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]oct-3-yl)benzamide by hydrogenation, under controlled conditions, of an amino-protected 3-(8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]oct-2-en-3-yl)benzamide intermediate in which the amino-protecting group is removable by catalytic hydrogenation.
US08247558B2	Process for the preparation of clopidogrel and its pharmaceutically acceptable salts The present invention provides a process for the preparation of clopidogrel and its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprises the resolving racemic methyl alpha-5-(4,5,6,7-tetrahydro[3,2-c]thienopyridyl)(2-chlorophenyl)-acetate by the salt formation of methyl alpha-5-(4,5,6,7-tetrahydro[3,2-c]thienopyridyl)(2-chlorophenyl)-acetate with excess levorotatory camphor-10-sulfonic acid to get a maximum yield of camphor sulphonate salt of methyl S-(+)-alpha-5-(4,5,6,7-tetrahydro[3,2-c]thienopyridyl) (2-chlorophenyl)-acetate and transforming the camphor sulphonate salt to clopidogrel or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.
US08247557B2	IAP inhibitors The invention provides novel inhibitors of IAP that are useful as therapeutic agents for treating malignancies where the compounds have the general formula (I): wherein Q, X1, X2, Y, Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, R1, R2, R3, R3′, R4, R4′, R5, R6, R6′ and n are as described herein.
US08247554B1	Detection of electrophilic and nucleophilic chemical agents A “real time” method for detecting chemical agents generally and particularly electrophilic and nucleophilic species by employing tunable, precursor sensor materials that mimic the physiological interaction of these agents to form highly florescent berberine-type alkaloids that can be easily and rapidly detected. These novel precursor sensor materials can be tuned for reaction with both electrophilic (chemical species, toxins) and nucleophilic (proteins and other biological molecules) species. By bonding or otherwise attaching these precursor molecules to a surface or substrate they can be used in numerous applications.
US08247553B2	Process of making aluminum alkyls The present invention generally relates to a new process of making a trialkyl aluminum compound in which at least one alkyl group is a primary alkyl derived from an internal olefin or alpha-olefin. The process employs an isomerization/hydroalumination catalyst.
US08247552B2	Analogs of dehydrophenylahistins and their therapeutic use Compounds represented by the following structure (II) are disclosed: as are methods for making such compounds. Compositions and methods for treating various disease conditions including cancer and non-cancer diseases associated with vascular proliferation are also disclosed.
US08247550B2	Certain substituted amides, method of making, and method of use thereof Compounds of Formula I that inhibit Btk are described herein. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising at least one compound of Formula I, together with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle chosen from carriers, adjuvants, and excipients, are described. Methods of treating patients suffering from certain diseases responsive to inhibition of Btk activity and/or B-cell activity are described. Methods for determining the presence of Btk in a sample are described.
US08247549B2	Method for preparing 4-(6-amino-purin-9-YL)-2(S)-hydroxy-butyric acid methyl ester The present invention discloses a novel method for preparing and purifying 4-(6-Amino-purin-9-yl)-2(S)-hydroxy-butyric acid methyl ester. The preparation started from cheap and easily available L-malic acid, which was transformed to intermediate I after simultaneous protection of the groups of 1-carboxyl and 2-hydroxyl. The intermediate I was selectively reduced to intermediate alcohol II, whose hydroxyl group was further transformed to an easily leaving group to afford intermediate III. The intermediate III was nucleophilically substituted with adenine to afford intermediate IV. The intermediate IV was deprotected and methyl-esterified simultaneously in methanol in the presence of an acid or a base to afford crude 4-(6-Amino-purin-9-yl)-2(S)-hydroxy-butyric acid methyl ester, which was purified by recrystallization to afford the purified product. Comparing with the prior preparation methods, the present method has advantages in low cost, mild conditions, high retention of the chiral center during the reaction, high productivity, great improvement in the quality and yield of the product and great decrease in cost, and thus is suitable for the production on a large scale.
US08247548B2	Isoelectronic heteroanalogues of PCBM and C60 for N-bridged PCBMs for organic electronic material N-bridged PCBMs are prepared by the cycloaddition of an organic azide to C60. The N-bridged PCBMs are imino PCBMs, exemplified by an isomeric mixture of [5,6]-open APCBM and [6,6]-closed APCBM. An organic electronic material containing a fullerene adduct, such as an organic field effect transistor or an organic photovoltaic device, is provided containing the N-bridged PCBM as the fullerene adduct.
US08247547B2	Process for the preparation of Caralluma extract and a formulation prepared thereof Processes for the preparation of Caralluma extract which includes shade-drying of Caralluma plant material; ii) treating the dried Caralluma plant material by at least one operation selected from a group consisting of sorting, cleaning and sizing to obtain Caralluma plant material meant for extraction or any combination thereof; iii) extracting the Caralluma plant material with a first solvent for at least two initial iterations followed by at least two subsequent iterations with a second solvent at controlled temperature to obtain a diluted extract; iv) removing the solvent from the diluted extract by distillation at a temperature below about 40° C. to obtain a concentrate; v) chilling the concentrate at a temperature of about 6 to about 10° C. for a period of about 7 to about 8 hours to obtain a chilled concentrate; vi) filtering the chilled concentrate to obtain a filtrate; vii) concentrating the filtrate at a temperature below about 60° C. to obtain a viscous liquid; viii) spray-drying the concentrated viscous liquid to obtain a powder; and ix) pulverizing and sifting the dried powder to obtain a Caralluma extract provided. Such extracts may be included in medicinal formulations used for the prevention and treatment of obesity and obesity-related conditions for subjects in need thereof.
US08247545B1	Device and a process for the isolation of nucleic acids There is described is a process for the isolation and purification of nucleic acids such as plasmid or genomic DNA from cells or other sources, wherein a) the cells containing nucleic acids are digested and cell debris is removed, or other samples containing nucleic acids are treated with anion exchangers, namely, in buffer solutions of low ionic strength, b) thereafter, the nucleic acids are desorbed from the anion exchanger using a buffer of high ionic strength, in order to be subsequently c) treated in said buffer of high ionic strength or in the presence of lower alcohols and/or poly(ethylene glycol) with a mineral support material, with adsorption of the nucleic acid to the surface of the mineral support materials, whereupon d) desorption of the nucleic acid is effected using water or a buffer solution of low ionic strength. The device for operating the inventive process consists of a hollow body (1) with an inlet opening (7) and an outlet opening (8), wherein in the hollow body (1), between two securing means (5, 6), a powdered first material based on silica gel (10) is arranged, and a second material (11) is placed between the first material (10) and the outlet opening (8), the first and second materials (10, 11) having different adsorption characteristics for nucleic acids.
US08247542B2	T1R3 nucleic acid fragments for use thereof as probes and for generating T1R specific antibodies Newly identified mammalian taste-cell-specific G protein-coupled receptors, and the genes and cDNA encoding said receptors are described. Specifically, T1R G protein-coupled receptors active in taste signaling, and the genes and cDNA encoding the same, are described, along with methods for isolating such genes and for isolating and expressing such receptors. Methods for representing taste perception of a particular tastant in a mammal are also described, as are methods for generating novel molecules or combinations of molecules that elicit a predetermined taste perception in a mammal, and methods for simulating one or more tastes. Further, methods for stimulating or blocking taste perception in a mammal are also disclosed.
US08247537B2	Human monoclonal antibodies to BTLA and methods of use The present disclosure provides isolated monoclonal antibodies, particularly human monoclonal antibodies that specifically bind to BTLA with high affinity. Nucleic acid molecules encoding the antibodies of the disclosure, expression vectors, host cells and methods for expressing the antibodies of the disclosure are also provided. Immunoconjugates, bispecific molecules and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the antibodies of the disclosure are also provided. The disclosure also provides methods for detecting BTLA, as well as methods for treating various diseases, including cancer and infectious diseases, using anti-BTLA antibodies.
US08247536B2	Factor VIII compositions Conjugates of a Factor VIII moiety and one or more water-soluble polymers are provided. Typically, the water-soluble polymer is poly(ethylene glycol) or a derivative thereof. Also provided are compositions comprising the conjugates, methods of making the conjugates, and methods of administering compositions comprising the conjugates to a patient.
US08247534B2	Synthesis of radiofluorinated peptide using microwave activation technology The present invention addresses a novel method of preparing radiofluorinated peptide-based compounds and introducing those compounds into an automated radiosynthesis apparatus with the aid of microwave activation. The present invention further relates to obtaining radiopharmaceutical kits utilizing microwave activation technology for the preparation of obtaining peptide based compounds as well as a method for the use of preparing a peptide based compound.
US08247529B2	Neoplasia targeting peptides and methods of using the same The present invention provides compositions including neoplasia targeting peptides as well as methods of using the neoplasia targeting peptides in diagnosing, detecting, treating, monitoring treatment, and analyzing cancer or cancer cells in vivo and in vitro.
US08247528B2	Composite material and method for making the same A composite material includes a body and a plurality of nano-scale probes. The body is made of a polymer. The plurality of nano-scale probes is embedded in the body. The nano-scale probes are substantially uniformly distributed in the polymer matrix. A method for making the composite material is further provided.
US08247521B2	Acid-doped polyelectrolyte modified carbon nanotubes and their use in high temperature PEM fuel cell electrodes New multifunctional aromatic copolymers bearing pyridine or pyrimidine units either in the main chain or side chain and single wall carbon nanotubes or multi wall carbon nanotubes as side chain pendants have been prepared. These multifunctional materials will combine both high proton and electrical conductivity due to the existence of polar pyridine or pyrimidine groups and carbon nanotubes within the same chemical structure. The prepared multifunctional materials can be used in the catalyst ink of the electrodes in high temperature PEM fuel cells.
US08247520B2	Polycarbonate polyol compositions and methods In one aspect, the present disclosure encompasses polymerization systems for the copolymerization of CO2 and epoxides comprising 1) a catalyst including a metal coordination compound having a permanent ligand set and at least one ligand that is a polymerization initiator, and 2) a chain transfer agent having two or more sites that can initiate polymerization. In a second aspect, the present disclosure encompasses methods for the synthesis of polycarbonate polyols using the inventive polymerization systems. In a third aspect, the present disclosure encompasses polycarbonate polyol compositions characterized in that the polymer chains have a high percentage of —OH end groups and a high percentage of carbonate linkages. The compositions are further characterized in that they contain polymer chains having an embedded polyfunctional moiety linked to a plurality of individual polycarbonate chains.
US08247514B2	Silylated polyurethane compositions and adhesives therefrom A silylated polyurethane composition containing polyester based polyurethane prepolymer. The silylated polyurethane composition when partially silylated is especially useful for pressure sensitive adhesives where it imparts superior adhesive and cohesive performance thereto.
US08247512B2	Metallocene random copolymers with cool temperature impact properties A metallocene random copolymer of propylene and ethylene in which the ductile/brittle transition temperature of a molded article made from the copolymer may be in the range of from about 20° F. (−7° C.) to about 40° F. (4° C.). The haze level of the molded article may be less than about 10 percent for an 80-mil (0.2 cm) thick plaque. The metallocene random copolymer may further include a clarifier.
US08247510B2	Copolymer and production process thereof A homopolymer having a monomer unit such as an isopropylidene diallylmalonate unit; a process for producing said homopolymer comprising the step of homopolymerising a monomer such as isopropylidene diallylmalonate; a copolymer containing said monomer unit and an ethylene unit and/or α-olefin unit; and a process for producing said copolymer comprising the step of copolymerizing a monomer such as isopropylidene diallylmalonate with at least ethylene and/or an α-olefin.
US08247509B2	Pressure-sensitive adhesive composition and use thereof The present invention relates to a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition used for a pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet to be directly attached to a metal surface, the composition including, a monomer mixture or an acrylic copolymer material obtained by at least partially polymerizing the monomer mixture, the monomer mixture including: at least one monomer (monomer m1) selected from alkyl(meth)acrylates represented by the following formula (I): CH2═C(R1)COOR2 in which R1 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, and R2 is an alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, and N-methylol (meth)acrylamide (monomer m2); in which the monomer m1 and the monomer m2 are contained in a total amount of 60% by weight or more based on the total amount of the monomer mixture, and the monomer mixture includes substantially no carboxyl group-containing monomer.
US08247502B2	Addition reaction-curable silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive composition and pressure-sensitive adhesive tape Provided is an addition reaction-curable silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive composition, including: (A) a specific diorganopolysiloxane consisting of (A1) a linear diorganopolysiloxane having two or more alkenyl groups, and (A2) a linear diorganopolysiloxane having SiOH groups at the terminals and containing no alkenyl groups, (B) a specific organopolysiloxane containing M units, Q units and SiOH group-containing siloxane units, (C) an organohydrogenpolysiloxane containing three or more SiH groups, (D) an addition reaction retarder, (E) a platinum group metal-based catalyst, and (F) a specific organopolysiloxane containing T units and D units. A cured product layer formed from a cured product of this composition can be peeled from a release film with minimal peeling force, and exhibits excellent adhesion to silicone rubbers. The composition is ideal for use within a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape including a substrate and an aforementioned cured product layer laminated to at least one surface of the substrate.
US08247500B2	Guanidine-substituted resin for transesterification A polymeric resin comprising guanidine groups having at least one C4-C22 tertiary alkyl substituent.
US08247499B2	Water-absorbing polymer structure with improved absorption properties A water-absorbing polymer structure is disclosed, whose surface has been brought into contact with a combination of a metal salt and an oxide of a metal. The invention also relates to a process for treating the surface of water-absorbing polymer structures whereby the surface of water-absorbing polymer structures is brought into contact with a combination of a metal salt and an oxide of a metal at a temperature of from about 50 to about 300° C. The present invention further relates to the water-absorbing polymer structures obtainable by this process, a composite comprising a water-absorbing polymer structure and a substrate, chemical products such as foams and fibers comprising water-absorbing polymer structures or a composite, and the use of a combination of an oxide of a metal and of a metal salt for treatment of the surface of super-absorbing polymer structures.
US08247498B2	Star polymer and method for producing the same It is to provide a narrowly dispersible star polymer having a controlled molecular structure and a method for easily producing such star polymer. The method comprises step (A) wherein arm (I) is formed by binding the anionic end of a polymer having an anionic end to a core and step (B) wherein arm (II) is extended from the core by a living radical polymerization. Examples of the star polymer is specifically exemplified by star polymers characterized by having a structure represented by formula (I-1) or (I-2) (In formula (I-1) or (I-2), B, C1 and C2 each independently represents a group composed of a polymer; and m1 and m2 each independently represents an integer of 1 or 2, wherein when m1 or m2 is 2, both C1 or both C2 represent the same group or different groups).
US08247496B2	Processing aids for elastomeric compositions The invention provides for processes to produce elastomeric compositions, the processes including contacting at least one elastomer with a processing aid, wherein the processing aid comprises at least one functionalized polymer having at least one halogen group. The invention also provides for articles such as innerliners for tires produced from the aforementioned elastomeric compositions.
US08247476B2	Curable casting compound for manufacturing plastic moulded parts In order to provide a curable casting compound by means of which plastic molded parts, having a structured surface and improved cleanability, can be produced, it is proposed that the casting compound comprises a binder material and a filler material, wherein the filler material is ca. 40 to ca. 85% by weight of the casting compound, and comprises two or more filler fractions, wherein a first filler fraction consists of solid granular mineral particles, and a second filler fraction consists of dimensionally stable hollow microspheres, and wherein the second filler fraction is ca. 1% by volume or more of the casting compound.
US08247475B2	Hydrotalcite-based compound particles, resin stabilizer using the same, halogen-containing resin composition and anion scavenger using the same According to the present invention, there are provided hydrotalcite-based compound particles surface-treated with an organic compound having not less than 3 carbon atoms, have a specific surface area of 5 to 150 m2/g, wherein a conceptual value x corresponding to micropores and ultramicropores, and a conceptual value y corresponding to volumes of macropores and micropores, both calculated from a water vapor adsorption curve thereof when exposed to a temperature of 25° C. and a humidity of 50% for 250 hours, are respectively within specific ranges. The hydrotalcite-based compound particles of the present invention are capable of capturing even a very small amount of halogens contained in various resins, and exhibiting an excellent effect of preventing deterioration of the resins. Further, the hydrotalcite-based compound particles of the present invention are used in the form of particles or a molded product and are capable of exhibiting a function for capturing an anionic organic or inorganic compound from a solution to a maximum extent without being dissolved, by themselves, in the solution.
US08247470B2	Polymerizable composition To provide a polymerizable composition having more excellent preservation stability of pastes than a conventional composition using a combination of a copper compound, cumene hydroperoxide, and N-acetylthiourea, and having a polymerization curing time which does not change with time, that is, does not delay or quicken from a time set for a product even though the composition is stored, the polymerizable composition includes a first paste and a second paste, wherein the first paste includes a polymer of α-β unsaturated monocarboxylic acid or α-β unsaturated dicarboxylic acid, water, and a hydroperoxide as a peroxide, and the second paste includes a (meth)acrylate compound not having an acid group, fluoroaluminosilicate glass powder, a thiourea derivative as a reducing material, and a vanadium compound as a polumerization accelerator.
US08247468B2	Composition for hard coat, article having hard coat layer and method for producing the article The present invention provides a composition for hard coat capable of forming a hard coat layer having the improved anti-staining property, anti-staining durability, scratch resistance, abrasion resistance, antistatic property and the like. A composition for hard coat comprising: an active energy ray-curable silicone-acrylic copolymer (A); an active energy ray-curable polyfunctional compound (B); and an electrically conductive material (C), wherein the active energy ray-curable silicone-acrylic copolymer (A) contains: a polysiloxane block (a-1), an acrylic block (a-2) containing an active energy ray-curable double bond group, and a fluoroalkyl group-containing acrylic block (a-3).
US08247466B2	Variable felted polyurethane foams for sponges and wipes A polyurethane foam sponge that picks up at least 80% of water in a wipe dry performance test is made by variably felting (compressing under heat and pressure) a foam sheet to a compression ratio of about 1.05 to 2.9. The resulting foam sponge has from 5% to 25% of its top and bottom surface portions modified by the variable felting, while its core portion remains substantially unmodified.
US08247459B2	Oil formulations There is provided a composition comprising an oil medium, wherein particles are suspended in said oil medium, wherein said particles comprise cyclopropene and molecular encapsulating agent, and wherein said particles have median size, as measured by the largest dimension, of 50 micrometer or less. Also provided are a method of making such a composition and a method of treating plants by contact with such a composition.
US08247457B2	Topical vasoconstrictor preparations and methods for protecting cells during cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy Vasoconstrictors are administered topically to provide protection against the adverse effects, e.g., alopecia, mucositis or dermatitis, induced by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Appropriate dosages and formulations of topical vasoconstrictors are provided. Methods for the use of such compositions are also provided.
US08247453B2	Methods for the treatment of dermatological disorders The present invention is directed to the use of a compound of formula (I) or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for the treatment of disorders mediated by the melanocortin-5 receptor, particularly dermatological disorders; and further directed to pharmaceutical compositions containing the compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08247451B2	ADAM10 and its uses related to infection The present invention relates to a protein, ADAM10, ADAM10 nucleic acid sequences and ADAM10 proteins encoded by these sequences that are involved in infection by one or more pathogen such as a virus, a parasite, a bacteria or a fungus or are otherwise associated with the life cycle of a pathogen.
US08247447B2	Use of derivatives of 4-hydroxyphenoxy acetic acid The present invention relates to substances which can be used as cosmetic ingredients, especially for skin whitening and as cosmetic agents against signs of ageing skin. The present invention also relates to the use of such substances for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of disorders related to the pigmentation of the skin.
US08247445B2	Platinum complexes and methods of use The subject invention concerns platinum complexes that exhibit antitumor cell and/or antiparasitic activity. The subject invention also concerns the use of platinum complexes of the invention to treat oncological and inflammatory disorders. The platinum complexes of the invention can also be used to treat or prevent infection by a virus or a bacterial or parasitic organism in vivo or in vitro.
US08247439B2	Jasmonate derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use thereof The present invention relates to novel jasmonate derivatives, methods for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions including such compounds, and methods of using these compounds and compositions, especially as chemotherapeutic agents for prevention and treatment of cancers.
US08247438B2	Methods for treating schizophrenia Treatment of schizophrenia or humans suffering from conditions associated with high dopamine levels in ventral striatum or caudate nucleus administers the compound (2S)-2-{3-[3-({[(2R,4R)-4-tert-Butoxycarbonyl-2-(2-fluorophenyl)]-3-thiazolidinyl}carbonylmethyl)ureido]phenyl}propionic acid and its physiological acceptable salts.
US08247437B2	N-hydroxyamide derivatives and use thereof The present invention is related to N-hydroxyamide derivatives of Formula (I) and use thereof in particular for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of autoimmune disorders, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, respiratory diseases and fibrosis, including multiple sclerosis, arthritis, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, liver and pulmonary fibrosis.
US08247435B2	Formulations for treating human and animal diseases The present disclosure provides for a scientific formulation useful in the treatment and prevention of human and animal diseases. A biologically effective amount of each of the components of the formulation is administered to patients in pill (or capsule) form via multiple different and identifiable pills. The compounds of the formulation are segregated into different pill types, and contain various amounts of the compounds Curcumin, Genistein, Squalamine, Vitamin E, N-Acetyl-Cysteine, Methylselenocysteine, Zinc Gluconate, B Complex, Lentinen, Coenzyme Q10 Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Lipoic Acid, Resveratrol, and Vitamin C. Furthermore, Arabinoxylan and/or Peperine may be added to the various pill formulations.
US08247433B2	Process for preparing 4-[2-(2-fluorophenoxymethyl)phenyl]piperidine compounds The invention relates to processes and intermediates for preparing compounds of formula I: where a, R1, and R3-6 are as defined in the specification, or a salt thereof. The compounds of formula I are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.
US08247432B2	Tripeptidyl peptidase inhibitors The present invention is concerned with novel compounds of formula (I) which are inhibitors of a membrane tripeptidyl peptidase responsible for the inactivation of endogenous neuropeptides such as cholecystokinis (CCKs).
US08247428B2	Indole alkaloid derivatives having opioid receptor agonistic effect, and therapeutic compositions and methods relating to same Indole alkaloid derivatives having an opioid receptor agonistic effect, their synthesis, and therapeutic compositions containing these derivatives, and methods of treating conditions with these compounds and therapeutic compositions, are provided.
US08247426B2	Crystalline irinotecan hydrochloride and methods for its preparation Disclosed is a crystalline form of irinotecan hydrochloride (I) and processes for the preparation thereof from crude irinotecan hydrochloride or another polymorphic form of irinotecan. Said crystalline form is particularly suitable for industrial use, because it is easily filtered and possesses characteristics of high stability and purity.
US08247420B2	Compositions, synthesis, and methods of using quinolinone based atypical antipsychotic agents The present invention provides novel quinolinone derivatives which can be advantageously used for treating schizophrenia and related psychoses such as acute manic, bipolar disorder, autistic disorder, and depression.
US08247417B2	Methods of treatment of chronic pain using eszopiclone The invention relates to the use of eszopiclone for the treatment of low-level, chronic pain and fatigue associated with pain.
US08247412B2	Urea derivatives methods for their manufacture and uses thereof The present invention provides compounds of formula (I): in which R1, R′1, R2, R′2, R3, Y and G have the meanings given in the description, to a process for their preparation, their application by way of medicaments, and to pharmaceutical compositions containing them.
US08247407B2	Pharmaceutical composition with anti-diabetic action The invention relates to medicine, in particular to searching and developing novel medicinal agent for treating pancreatic diabetes. The invention is based on the development of more effective and less toxic medicinal agents based on indole derivatives which exhibit antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic activity and insulin resistance-improving actions and the structure of which differs from the structure of traditionally used compounds. The inventive indole derivatives are also low-toxic and easily tolerated.
US08247401B2	P2X3 receptor antagonists for treatment of pain The subject invention relates to novel P2X3 receptor antagonists that play a critical role in treating disease states associated with pain, in particular peripheral pain, inflammatory pain, or tissue injury pain that can be treated using a P2X3 receptor subunit modulator.
US08247398B2	Zinc complexes of natural amino acids for treating elevated copper caused toxicities The present invention relates to the use of zinc complexes of natural amino acids, especially L-arginine, L-lysine, L-ornithine, and other natural amino acids, in a molar ratio of about 1:2 (metal:amino acid), and formulations thereof. These pharmaceutical compositions offer better tolerated and faster acting regimens than common zinc salts (i.e., acetate, sulfate, etc.) for long term maintenance therapy of diseases caused by abnormal elevated copper levels, such as in Wilson's disease, inflammatory and fibrotic diseases and Alzheimer's disease.
US08247396B2	Polyquinoline derivatives and therapeutic use thereof The invention relates to compounds of general formula (I), to the process for the preparation thereof and to the use thereof as a therapeutic agent.
US08247384B2	Methods and compositions for wound healing Methods and compositions comprising combinations of one or more anti-connexin agents and one or more other agents useful for the promotion and/or improvement of wound healing and/or tissue repair.
US08247379B2	Tumor associated amino acids and uses therefor The invention describes SAGE (sdph3.10) and sdp3.5 tumor associated nucleic acids, including fragments and biologically functional variants thereof. Also included are polypeptides and fragments thereof encoded by such nucleic acid molecules, and antibodies relating thereto. Methods and products also are provided for diagnosing and treating conditions characterized by expression of a sdph3.10 and/or sdp3.5 gene product.
US08247375B2	Polypeptides This invention relates to polypeptides which bind to EGFR family receptors and to applications of those polypeptides in medicine, veterinary medicine, diagnosis diagnostics and imaging.
US08247374B2	Methods and compositions for the repair and/or regeneration of damaged myocardium using cytokines and variants thereof Methods, compositions, and kits for repairing damaged myocardium and/or myocardial cells including the administration of cytokines, variants of cytokines, cardiac stem cells, or combinations thereof are disclosed and claimed. In addition, methods, compositions, and kits for forming coronary vasculature including the administration of cytokines, variants of cytokines, cardiac stem cells, or combinations thereof are described. In particular, administration of variants of hepatocyte growth factor, such as NK1, 1K1, and HP11, are useful for the repair and/or regeneration of damaged myocardium or formation of coronary vasculature. Methods of activating cardiac stem cells in vitro are also disclosed.
US08247368B2	Cleaning compositions comprising a multi-polymer system comprising at least one alkoxylated grease cleaning polymer Laundry detergents and cleaning compositions which provide improved cleaning benefits that comprise a novel polymer system. The polymer system comprises one or more amphiphilic alkoxylated grease cleaning polymers, and either a clay soil cleaning polymer; or a soil suspending polymer.
US08247362B2	Light duty liquid cleaning compositions and methods of manufacture and use thereof The invention encompasses liquid cleaning compositions, for example, dish washing liquids, and methods of their manufacture and use, which possess enhanced cleaning ability. The cleaning compositions of the invention include acidic light duty liquid cleaning compositions with low toxicity and antibacterial efficacy on surfaces, for example, hard surfaces.
US08247358B2	HVI-PAO bi-modal lubricant compositions The invention relates to oil compositions containing metallocene catalyzed high viscosity index polyalphaolefins (HVI-PAO). In one embodiment the oil formulation comprises a metallocene catalyzed HVI-PAO with a viscosity greater than 125 cSt kv 100° C. and a viscosity index greater than 100, a second base stock with a viscosity of at least 2 cSt kv 100° C. and less than 60 cSt kv 100° C. wherein the second base stock is at least 60 cSt kv 100° C. less than the metallocene HVI-PAO, an ester with a viscosity of at least 2 and less than 6, the ester comprising more than 10 weight percent and less than 30 weight percent of the oil formulation, the oil formulation having a viscosity index of greater than 195. The use of metallocene catalyzed HVI-PAOs in a bimodal blend provides advantages in improved shear stability, and other properties related to shear stability.
US08247357B2	Filler treating agents based on hydrogen bonding polyorganosiloxanes A composition includes (i) a matrix, (ii) a filler, and (iii) a filler treating agent; where the filler treating agent comprises a polyorganosiloxane capable of hydrogen bonding. The filler treating agent can be a saccharide-siloxane polymer, an amino-functional polyorganosiloxane, or a combination thereof.
US08247355B2	Acidic viscosity enhancer for viscoelastic surfactant fluids The invention discloses method of treating a subterranean formation of a well bore, the method comprising: providing a treatment fluid comprising: an aqueous base fluid; a viscosity enhancer; and a viscoelastic surfactant, wherein the enhancer is acid in the aqueous base fluid and co-operates with the viscoelastic surfactant to enhance viscosity compared to viscoelastic surfactant alone in the aqueous base fluid; and introducing the treatment fluid into the well bore.
US08247350B2	Adjuvant composition, agrochemical spray aqueous solution containing the same and control method using the same The present invention relates to an adjuvant composition characterized by containing the following (A) and (B): (A) Sodium dialkylsulfosuccinate and polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, the total content being 45% to 85% by mass; (B) 5 to 40% by mass of component for pour-point depressant, and the adjuvant composition can uniformly adhere agrochemical active ingredients to crops, has an effect to stabilize the agrochemical efficacy and particularly exerts a pronounced effect when used in drift-reducing spraying.
US08247349B2	Enhanced abscisic acid analog and fertilizer performance This invention relates to the use of nitrogen and/or calcium containing fertilizers or salts to improve the performance of abscisic acid (ABA) analogs and ABA derivatives on tomato leaf transpiration inhibition. This invention also relates to the use of ABA analogs or derivates or their salts to reduce the phytotoxicity of foliar applied nitrogen and/or calcium-containing fertilizers or salts.
US08247345B2	Polycondensation catalyst for producing polyester and method for producing the same and method for producing polyester A method for producing a catalyst for producing polyester by an esterification reaction or a transesterification reaction between a dicarboxylic acid or an ester-forming derivative thereof and a glycol, which comprises hydrolyzing an organic silicon compound and/or an organic aluminum compound and/or an organic zirconium compound in an organic solvent in which particles of a solid are dispersed thereby to form an inner coat layer either of an oxide of at least one element selected from silicon, aluminum and zirconium or of a composite oxide of at least two elements selected from silicon, aluminum and zirconium, and then hydrolyzing an organic titanium compound in the organic solvent in which the particles of a solid base having the inner coat layer thereon are dispersed thereby to form an outer coat layer of titanic acid on the inner coat layer of the particles of a solid base.
US08247340B2	Catalyst formulation for hydrogenation A composition and method for preparation of a catalyst for the liquid phase selective hydrogenation of alkynes to alkenes with high selectivity to alkenes relative to alkanes, high alkyne conversion, and sustained catalytic activity comprising a Group VIII metal and a Group IB, Group IIB, Group IIIA, and/or Group VIIB promoter on a particulate support.
US08247339B2	Ceramic catalyst body A ceramic catalyst body has a ceramic carrier supporting catalyst therein. The ceramic carrier has plural cells surrounded by plural cell walls arranged in a honeycomb shape, and a catalyst separation ratio H of the ceramic carrier expressed by the following formula is not more than 35%. H=217.254+(−0.167)×T+0.345×D+28.731×ΔCTE−3.343×S, where Δ CTE(×10−6/° C.) is a difference between a thermal expansion coefficient C1 of the ceramic catalyst body and a thermal expansion coefficient C2 of the ceramic carrier, T(K) is an internal temperature of the ceramic carrier, D(cc/g) is a amount of fine pores of not more than 2 μm in the ceramic carrier, and S(%) is a surface porosity indicating the ratio of an area of opening parts of the fine pores on a surface of the ceramic carrier.
US08247337B2	Alumina sintered article An alumina sintered article comprising 99.3 mass % or more Al in terms of Al2O3, strontium and silicon is disclosed. The alumina sintered article also comprises alumina crystal grains and an oxide crystal comprising aluminum, silicon, strontium located at a triple pocket surrounded by three or more alumina crystal grains. The alumina sintered article improves dielectric loss in the megahertz to gigahertz bands while maintaining corrosion resistance, mechanical properties of alumina.
US08247331B2	Method for forming insulating film and method for manufacturing semiconductor device A method for forming an insulating film includes a step of preparing a substrate, which is to be processed and has silicon exposed on the surface; a step of performing first nitriding to the silicon exposed on the surface of the substrate, and forming a silicon nitride film having a thickness of 0.2 nm but not more than 1 nm on the surface of the substrate; and a step of performing first heat treatment to the silicon nitride film in N2O atmosphere and forming a silicon nitride film. This method may further include a step of performing second nitriding to the silicon oxynitride film, and furthermore, may include a step of performing second heat treatment to the silicon oxynitride film after the second nitriding.
US08247329B2	Nanotube semiconductor devices A method for forming a semiconductor device includes forming a nanotube region using a thin epitaxial layer formed on the sidewall of a trench in the semiconductor body. The thin epitaxial layer has uniform doping concentration. In another embodiment, a first thin epitaxial layer of the same conductivity type as the semiconductor body is formed on the sidewall of a trench in the semiconductor body and a second thin epitaxial layer of the opposite conductivity type is formed on the first epitaxial layer. The first and second epitaxial layers have uniform doping concentration. The thickness and doping concentrations of the first and second epitaxial layers and the semiconductor body are selected to achieve charge balance. In one embodiment, the semiconductor body is a lightly doped P-type substrate. A vertical trench MOSFET, an IGBT, a Schottky diode and a P-N junction diode can be formed using the same N-Epi/P-Epi nanotube structure.
US08247325B2	Direct growth of metal nanoplates on semiconductor substrates Metal nanoplates are grown on n-type and p-type semiconductor wafer substrates through galvanic reactions between substantially pure aqueous metal solutions and the substrates. The morphology of the resulting metal nanoplates that protrude from the substrate can be tuned by controlling the concentration of the metal solution and the reaction time of the solution with the semiconductor wafer. Nanoplate size gradually increases with prolonged growth time and the nanoplate thicknesses increases in a unique stepwise fashion due to polymerization and fusion of adjacent nanoplates. Further, the roughness of the nanoplates can also be controlled. In a particular embodiment, Ag nanoplates are grown on a GaAs substrate through reaction with a solution of AgNO3 with the substrate.
US08247323B2	Semiconductor device A silicide film is formed between a ferroelectric capacitor structure, which is formed by sandwiching a ferroelectric film between a lower electrode and an upper electrode, and a conductive plug (the conductive material constituting the plug is tungsten (W) for example). Here, an example is shown in which a base film of the conductive plug is the silicide film.
US08247321B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device, semiconductor device, electronic instrument, semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, and storage medium When a barrier film is formed on an exposed surface of an interlayer insulation film on a substrate, the interlayer insulation film having a recess formed therein, and a metal wiring to be electrically connected to a metal wiring in a lower layer is formed in the recess, a barrier film having an excellent step coverage can be formed and increase of a wiring resistance can be restrained. An oxide film on a surface of the lower copper wiring exposed to a bottom surface of the interlayer insulation film is reduced or edged so as to remove oxygen on the surface of the copper wiring. Then, by supplying an organic metal compound containing manganese and containing no oxygen, generation of manganese oxide as a self-forming barrier film is selectively allowed on an area containing oxygen, such as a sidewall of the recess and a surface of the interlayer insulation film, while generation of the manganese oxide is not allowed on the surface of the copper wiring. Thereafter, copper is embedded in the recess.
US08247320B2	Process for producing electrodes for solar cells The invention relates to a process for producing electrodes for solar cells, the electrode being configured as an electrically conductive layer on a substrate for solar cells, in which, in a first step, a dispersion comprising electrically conductive particles is transferred from a carrier to the substrate by irradiating the dispersion with a laser and, in a second step, the dispersion transferred to the substrate is dried and/or hardened to form the electrically conductive layer.
US08247318B2	Modifying catalytic behavior of nanocrystals The present invention provides a method of providing a desired catalyst electron energy level. The method includes providing a donor material quantum confinement structure (QCS) having a first Fermi level, and providing an acceptor QCS material having a second Fermi level, where the first Fermi level is higher than the second Fermi level. According to the method the acceptor is disposed proximal to the donor to alter an electronic structure of the donor and the acceptor materials to provide the desired catalyst electron energy level.
US08247317B2	Methods of solid phase recrystallization of thin film using pulse train annealing method Embodiments of the present invention provide methods of solid phase recrystallization of thin film using a plurality of pulses of electromagnetic energy. In one embodiment, the methods of the present invention may be used to anneal an entire substrate surface or selected regions of a surface of a substrate by delivering a plurality of pluses of energy to a crystalline seed region or layer upon which an amorphous layer is deposited to recrystallize the amorphous layer so that it has the same grain structure and crystal orientation as that of the underlying crystalline seed region or layer.
US08247316B2	Method for fabricating a transistor including a polysilicon layer formed using two annealing processes A transistor includes a substrate, an active region including a source region, a channel region, and a drain region which are crystallized using an SGS crystallization method and are formed on the substrate so that a grain size of a first annealed portion and a second annealed portion are different from each other, a gate insulating layer formed on the active region, and a gate electrode formed on the gate insulating layer.
US08247314B2	Methods for improving the quality of structures comprising semiconductor materials Methods which can be applied during the epitaxial growth of semiconductor structures and layers of III-nitride materials so that the qualities of successive layers are successively improved. An intermediate epitaxial layer is grown on an initial surface so that growth pits form at surface dislocations present in the initial surface. A following layer is then grown on the intermediate layer according to the known phenomena of epitaxial lateral overgrowth so it extends laterally and encloses at least the agglomerations of intersecting growth pits. Preferably, prior to growing the following layer, a discontinuous film of a dielectric material is deposited so that the dielectric material deposits discontinuously so as to reduce the number of dislocations in the laterally growing material. The methods of the invention can be performed multiple times to the same structure. Also, semiconductor structures fabricated by these methods.
US08247310B2	Method for making gallium nitride substrate A method for making a GaN substrate for growth of nitride semiconductor is provided. The method first provides a GaN single crystal substrate. Then an ion implanting layer is formed inside the GaN single crystal substrate, which divides the GaN single crystal substrate into a first section and a second section. After that, the GaN single crystal substrate is connected with an assistant substrate through a connecting layer. Thereafter, the GaN single crystal substrate is heated whereby the ion implanting layer is decompounded. Finally, the second section is separated from the first section. The first section left on a surface of the assistant substrate is provided for growth of nitride semiconductor thereon.
US08247306B2	Solid-state image pickup device and a method of manufacturing the same A solid-state image pickup device includes: a silicon layer; a pixel portion formed in the silicon layer for processing and outputting signal charges obtained by carrying out photoelectric conversion for incident lights; an alignment mark formed in a periphery of the pixel portion and in the silicon layer; and a contact portion through which a first electrode within a wiring layer formed on a first surface of the silicon layer, and a second electrode formed on a second surface opposite to the first surface of the silicon layer through an insulating film are connected, wherein the alignment mark and the contact portion are formed from conductive layers made of the same conductive material and formed within respective holes each extending completely through the silicon layer through respective insulating layers made of the same material.
US08247303B2	Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same Provided is a semiconductor capacitor including: a capacitor device forming region having a trapezoidal trench which is formed on a surface of a first conductivity type semiconductor substrate; a second conductivity type lower electrode layer provided along the trapezoidal trenches of the capacitor device forming region; a capacitor insulating film formed at least on a surface of the second conductivity type lower electrode layer; and a second conductivity type upper electrode formed on a surface of the capacitor insulating film.
US08247302B2	Methods of fabricating substrates A method of fabricating a substrate includes forming spaced first features and spaced second features over a substrate. The first and second features alternate with one another and are spaced relative one another. Width of the spaced second features is laterally trimmed to a greater degree than any lateral trimming of width of the spaced first features while laterally trimming width of the spaced second features. After laterally trimming of the second features, spacers are formed on sidewalls of the spaced first features and on sidewalls of the spaced second features. The spacers are of some different composition from that of the spaced first features and from that of the spaced second features. After forming the spacers, the spaced first features and the spaced second features are removed from the substrate. The substrate is processed through a mask pattern comprising the spacers. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08247299B2	Flash memory device and fabrication method thereof The present invention relates to a flash memory device and a fabrication method thereof. In an embodiment, a flash memory device includes a tunnel insulating film and a floating gate laminated over an active region of a semiconductor substrate, an isolation layer formed in a field region of the semiconductor substrate and projected higher than the floating gate, a dielectric layer formed over the semiconductor substrate including the floating gate and the isolation layer, and a control gate formed on the dielectric layer.
US08247296B2	Method of forming an insulated gate field effect transistor device having a shield electrode structure A method for forming a transistor having insulated gate electrodes and insulated shield electrodes within trench regions includes forming dielectric stack overlying a substrate. The dielectric stack includes a first layer of one material overlying the substrate and a second layer of a different material overlying the first layer. Trench regions are formed adjacent to the dielectric stack. After the insulated shield electrodes are formed, the method includes removing the second layer and then forming the insulated gate electrodes. Portions of gate electrode material are removed to form first recessed regions, and dielectric plugs are formed in the first recessed regions using the first layer as a stop layer. The first layer is then removed, and spacers are formed adjacent the dielectric plugs. Second recessed regions are formed in the substrate self-aligned to the spacers.
US08247295B2	DMOS type semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same A DMOS type semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. An isolation oxide layer with an ion implantation opening is formed on a semiconductor. A gate oxide film is formed on the semiconductor within the ion implantation opening. A gate is formed on the isolation oxide layer and the gate oxide film. A body layer diffusively formed in the semiconductor by implanting ions of an impurity element having a first conduction type from the ion implantation opening. A regulation layer which is shallower than the body layer is diffusively formed in the body layer by implanting ions of an impurity element having a second conduction type opposite to the first conduction type from the ion implantation opening. A source layer is diffusively formed in the regulation layer by implanting ions of an impurity element having the second conduction type from the ion implantation opening. The regulation layer is formed so as to horizontally extend beyond a region in which a gate bird's beak occurs from an end of the gate toward underlying layers of the gate.
US08247293B2	Non-volatile memory cells formed in back-end-of-line processes A method for forming and operating an integrated circuit, including providing a substrate; forming a bottom electrode over the substrate, wherein the bottom electrode is in or over a lowest metallization layer over the substrate; forming a blocking layer over the substrate; forming a charge-trapping layer over the blocking layer; forming an insulation layer over the charge-trapping layer; forming a control gate over the insulation layer; forming a tunneling layer over the control gate; and forming a top electrode over the tunneling layer.
US08247288B2	Method of integrating a MOSFET with a capacitor A bypass capacitor is directly integrated on top of a MOSFET chip. The capacitor comprises multi layers of conductive material and dielectric material staking on top of each other with connection vias through dielectric layer for connecting different conductive layers. The method of integrating the bypass capacitor comprises repeating steps of depositing a dielectric layer, forming connection vias through the dielectric layer, depositing a conductive layer and patterning the conductive layer.
US08247282B2	Enhancing interface characteristics between a channel semiconductor alloy and a gate dielectric by an oxidation process In sophisticated transistor elements, long-term threshold voltage shifts in transistors comprising a threshold adjusting semiconductor alloy may be reduced by reducing the roughness of an interface formed between the threshold adjusting semiconductor material and the gate dielectric material. To this end, a portion of the threshold adjusting semiconductor material may be oxidized and may be removed prior to forming the high-k dielectric material.
US08247277B2	Manufacturing method of a thin film transistor A manufacturing method of a thin film transistor is provided. An insulating pattern layer having at least one protrusion is formed on a substrate. At least one spacer and a plurality of amorphous semiconductor patterns separated from each other are formed on the insulating pattern layer. The spacer is formed at one side of the protrusion and connected between the amorphous semiconductor patterns. The spacer and the amorphous semiconductor patterns are crystallized. The protrusion and the insulating pattern layer below the spacer are removed so that a beam structure having a plurality of corners is formed and suspended over the substrate. A carrier tunneling layer, a carrier trapping layer and a carrier blocking layer are sequentially formed to compliantly wrap the corners of the beam structure. Hereafter, a gate is formed on the substrate to cover the beam structure and wrap the carrier blocking layer.
US08247272B2	Copper on organic solderability preservative (OSP) interconnect and enhanced wire bonding process A semiconductor package and a method for constructing the package are disclosed. The package includes a substrate and a die attached thereto. A first contact region is disposed on the substrate and a second contact region is disposed on the die. The first contact region, for example, comprises copper coated with an OSP material. A copper wire bond electrically couples the first and second contact regions. Wire bonding includes forming a ball bump on the first contact region having a flat top surface. Providing the flat top surface is achieved with a smoothing process. A ball bond is formed on the second contact region, followed by stitching the wire onto the flat top surface of the ball bump on the first contact region.
US08247268B2	Semiconductor wafer having through-hole vias on saw streets with backside redistribution layer A semiconductor wafer contains a plurality of die with contact pads disposed on a first surface of each die. Metal vias are formed in trenches in the saw street guides and are surrounded by organic material. Traces connect the contact pads and metal vias. The metal vias can be half-circle vias or full-circle vias. The metal vias are surrounded by organic material. Redistribution layers (RDL) are formed on a second surface of the die opposite the first surface. The RDL and THV provide expanded interconnect flexibility to adjacent die. Repassivation layers are formed between the RDL on the second surface of the die for electrical isolation. The die are stackable and can be placed in a semiconductor package with other die. The RDL provide electrical interconnect to the adjacent die. Bond wires and solder bumps also provide electrical connection to the semiconductor die.
US08247264B2	Transistor, method for manufacturing same, and semiconductor device comprising such transistor The invention provides a process for production of a transistor that can form an oriented active layer by a convenient method while yielding a transistor with excellent carrier mobility. The process according to the invention is a process for production of a transistor with an active layer composed of an organic semiconductor compound-containing semiconductor film, the process comprising a step of stretching the semiconductor film and a step of pasting the semiconductor film onto the side on which the active layer is to be formed while heating and/or pressing, to obtain the active layer.
US08247261B2	Thin substrate fabrication using stress-induced substrate spalling A method for manufacturing a thin film direct bandgap semiconductor active solar cell device comprises providing a source substrate having a surface and disposing on the surface a stress layer having a stress layer surface area in contact with and bonded to the surface of the source substrate. Operatively associating a handle foil with the stress layer and applying force to the handle foil separates the stress layer from the source substrate, and leaves a portion of the source substrate on the stress layer surface substantially corresponding to the area in contact with the surface of the source substrate. The portion is less thick than the source layer. The stress layer thickness is below that which results in spontaneous spalling of the source substrate. The source substrate may comprise an inorganic single crystal or polycrystalline material such as Si, Ge, GaAs, SiC, sapphire, or GaN. In one embodiment the stress layer comprises a flexible material.
US08247260B2	Method to form a photovoltaic cell comprising a thin lamina A very thin photovoltaic cell is formed by implanting gas ions below the surface of a donor body such as a semiconductor wafer. Ion implantation defines a cleave plane, and a subsequent step exfoliates a thin lamina from the wafer at the cleave plane. A photovoltaic cell, or all or a portion of the base or emitter of a photovoltaic cell, is formed within the lamina. In preferred embodiments, the wafer is affixed to a receiver before the cleaving step. Electrical contact can be formed to both surfaces of the lamina, or to one surface only.
US08247258B2	Method of interconnect for image sensor A method for fabricating CMOS image sensor device includes providing a P-type semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor substrate includes a surface region. The method includes forming a first dielectric layer having a first thickness overlying a first region of the semiconductor substrate. The method includes providing an N type impurity region in a portion of the semiconductor substrate underneath the first dielectric layer to cause formation of a photodiode device region characterized by at least the N type impurity region and the P type substrate. A second dielectric layer having a second thickness is formed in a second region of the surface region. The second dielectric layer is formed within a portion of the first region within the first thickness of the first dielectric layer. The method includes forming a polysilicon gate layer overlying at least the second region to form a contact member coupled to the second region.
US08247254B2	System and method for forming solar cell structures System and method for forming solar cell structures using a foundry compatible process. According to an embodiment, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a solar cell. The method includes providing a substrate. The substrate includes a support region. The method also includes transferring a photovoltaic material overlying the support region of the substrate. The photovoltaic material is characterized by a first thickness. The method further includes forming an emitter region on the photovoltaic material by a diffusion process. The emitter region is characterized by a first impurity type. In addition, the method includes forming a mask overlaying the emitter region. The mask exposes at least a first contact region. The method also includes forming the first contact region within the first thickness of the photovoltaic material. Furthermore, the method includes doping the first contact region with a second impurity type.
US08247247B2	Method of manufacturing LED module A method for manufacturing an LED module, including steps of: providing a heat conductive plate and an LED die, the heat conductive plate defining a concave groove therein; forming an electrode circuit layer on the heat conductive plate around the concave groove; plating one metal layer on a bottom of the concave groove of the heat conductive plate, and plating another metal layer on the LED die; eutectically bonding the metal layer of the heat conducting plate and the metal layer of the LED die together to form into an eutectic layer; forming electrodes on the LED die, and connecting the electrodes with the electrode circuit layer; and encapsulating the LED die in the concave groove.
US08247246B2	Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof, delamination method, and transferring method A technique for forming a TFT element over a substrate having flexibility typified by a flexible plastic film is tested. When a structure in which a light-resistant layer or a reflective layer is employed to prevent the damage to the delamination layer, it is difficult to fabricate a transmissive liquid crystal display device or a light emitting device which emits light downward.A substrate and a delamination film are separated by a physical means, or a mechanical means in a state where a metal film formed over a substrate, and a delamination layer comprising an oxide film including the metal and a film comprising silicon, which is formed over the metal film, are provided. Specifically, a TFT obtained by forming an oxide layer including the metal over a metal film; crystallizing the oxide layer by heat treatment; and performing delamination in a layer of the oxide layer or at both of the interface of the oxide layer is formed.
US08247244B2	Light emitting device and method of manufacturing the same There are provided a light emitting device and a method of manufacturing the same. A light emitting device according to the present invention includes a substrate; an N-type semiconductor layer, an active layer and a P-type semiconductor layer, sequentially formed on the substrate; one or more trenches formed to expose the N-type semiconductor layer by partially removing at least the P-type semiconductor and active layers; a first insulating layer formed on sidewalls of the trenches; and a conductive layer filled in the trenches having the first insulating layer formed therein. According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a characteristic of uniform current diffusion, and thus, light is uniformly emitted to thereby enhance the light emitting efficiency.
US08247243B2	Solar cell interconnection Methods and devices for solar cell interconnection are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes physically alloying the ink metal to the underlying foil (hence excellent adhesion and conductivity with no pre-treatment), and by fusing the solid particles in the ink on the surface (eliminating any organic components) so that the surface is ideally suited for good conductivity and adhesion to an overlayer of finger ink, which is expected to be another adhesive. In some embodiments, contact resistance of conductive adhesives are known to be much lower on gold or silver than on any other metals.
US08247239B2	System for introducing standard gas into sample container A method for introducing standard gas into a sample vessel is generally disclosed comprising providing a vessel containing a sample gas and a receptacle with a vessel port, such as sampling needle, pressurizing the vessel with a carrier gas, and introducing a volume of standard gas into the flow path of the carrier gas being used to pressurize the vessel when the vessel port of the receptacle is located within the vessel. In some embodiments, a rotary valve is loaded with the standard gas, and the valve is brought into fluid communication with the flow path of the carrier gas when the vessel port is within the vessel.
US08247238B2	Device and methods of detection of airborne agents Provided are methods, devices and systems that utilize free-surface fluidics and SERS for analyte detection with high sensitivity and specificity. The molecules can be airborne agents, including but not limited to explosives, narcotics, hazardous chemicals, or other chemical species. The free-surface fluidic architecture is created using an open microchannel, and exhibits a large surface to volume ratio. The free-surface fluidic interface can filter interferent molecules, while concentrating airborne analyte molecules. The microchannel flow enables controlled aggregation of SERS-active probe particles in the flow, thereby enhancing the detector's sensitivity.
US08247232B2	Homologous recombination-mediated transgene deletion in plant cells A process to prepare a recombined transgenic Zea mays plant or plant cell from a first transgenic Zea mays plant cell, wherein the transgene in the recombinant plant or plant cell has an altered genetic structure relative to the genetic structure of the transgene in the first transgenic plant cell, due to homologous recombination-mediated transgene deletion.
US08247230B2	Plant stem cell line derived from cambium of herbaceous plant with storage root and method for isolating the same The present invention relates to a cell line derived from the cambium of an herbaceous plant having a storage root and a method for isolating the same. More specifically, relates to a cambium-derived homogeneous cell line having the ability to divide, which is obtained from the cambium-containing storage tissue of an herbaceous plant having a storage root without a separate dedifferentiation process, and to a method for isolating the same. The cell line derived from the cambium of an herbaceous plant having a storage root has active division ability and is homogeneous. Also, it is stable during culture, because it has not undergone a dedifferentiation process. Thus, through the optimization of proliferation thereof, the cell line can be allowed to proliferate in a large amount within a short time. Accordingly, the cell line derived from the cambium of an herbaceous plant having a storage root makes it possible to produce large amounts of useful plants which are difficult to cultivate outdoor due to various problems associated with the period of cultivation, the selection of cultivation land, cultivation cost and the like.
US08247229B2	Method of differentiating stem cells into cells of the endoderm and pancreatic lineage Methods are described to more efficiently produce cells of the endoderm and pancreatic lineage from mammalian pluripotent stem cells. These methods provide a simple, reproducible culture protocol using defined media components to enable consistent, large-scale production of pancreatic cell types for research or therapeutic uses.
US08247228B2	Method of inducing memory B cell development and terminal differentiation The invention provides a method for promoting differentiation of a mature naïve B cell or a B cell progenitor into a memory B cell or a plasma cell. The method comprises (a) contacting a population of cells comprising a mature naïve B cell or a B cell progenitor with an agent that activates at least one of JAK1, JAK3, STAT3, STAT5A or STAT5B; wherein the population of cells optionally is contacted with an antigen, and (b) isolating the memory B cell or plasma cell.
US08247225B2	DNA promoters and anthrax vaccines The invention is related to intracellularly induced bacterial DNA promoters and vaccines against Bacillus anthracis.
US08247220B2	Optical indicator for detecting bacterial pathogens A clinical testing assay device that can differentiate bacterial from viral infections is described. The assay device has a sample contact zone with an absorbent pad on which a test sample is deposited and a detection zone with a colorant indicator that is sensitive to bacteria cells. The colorant indicator changes color when exposed to a bacteria sample. The color change signal can manifest relatively quickly, usually within a few minutes, and with an intensity correlative to the concentration of bacteria in a test sample. A method of use is also provided.
US08247219B2	Device and method for multiple analyte detection The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more of a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.
US08247214B2	Detecting, measuring and controlling particles and electromagnetic radiation A method is provided for detecting, measuring or controlling particles and/or electromagnetic radiation, comprising providing a deformable material containing a deformable aperture defining a path for particles or radiation, adjusting the deformable aperture to a prescribed geometry and/or size by deforming the deformable material to change at least one of the parameters of the path defined by the deformable aperture, and causing the particle or radiation to be detected, measured or controlled to enter the deformable aperture. The method includes the step of monitoring the geometry and/or size of the deformable aperture and controlling the adjustment of the size of the deformable aperture in response to such monitoring. The required apparatus is easily fabricated from inexpensive materials. Furthermore the deformable aperture can be tuned to the appropriate geometry post fabrication, and the ability to adjust the aperture geometry renders it capable of discriminating a plurality of differently sized particles.
US08247213B2	Methods for massive culture of Dinophysis acuminata and isolation of pectenotoxin-2 Provided is a method for massive culture of Dinophysis acuminata which is a marine dinoflagellate causing diarrhetic shellfish poisoning, and methods for extracting, isolating and purifying the shellfish toxin pectenotoxin-2 from the cultured Dinophysis acuminata. Particularly, Dinophysis acuminata is cultured massively in massive culture apparatus comprising polycarbonate water bath having the bottom sinking down toward the center of the bottom; acryl tube (E) containing fluorescent lamp laid long in the center of the water bath; air supplying device (B) supplying the air to the sinking center of the bottom of the water bath; and air purifying device containing one or more devices selected from the group consisting of UV lamp (C) and carbon cartridge filter (D) purifying the air supplied by the said air supplying device.
US08247212B2	Circulation of algal broth by thermally-induced convection The present invention provides a method of circulating algae in growing containers using thermally-induced convection techniques. In particular, a method of growing algae by providing a thermal gradient in algae containing medium is disclosed.
US08247209B2	Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT) homologs and use thereof The present invention provides novel genes for glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase. In exemplary embodiments, the invention provides a nucleic acid comprising the nucleotide sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 1 or 4 or a fragment thereof.
US08247204B2	Magnetic enrichment method, a reactor unit for micro particles and a magnet unit Magnetic enrichment method, wherein the desired biological component is collected from a solution, which component is thereafter enriched in a liquid in such a manner that by means of the micro particles attached to the magnet or attached by means of at least one magnet at least one biological component is collected in a closed reactor vessel. Thereafter at least one biological component is enriched in such a manner that the desired component is released to the solution. The reactor unit is a closed vessel, wherein the prevailing conditions are controllable. The shape and the location of the magnet unit in the reactor unit are adjusted in a preferable manner to collect the desired biological component.
US08247202B2	Method for employing ear corn in the manufacture of ethanol Ear corn is picked from corn fields by ear corn harvesters and transported to a central shelling station associated with an ethanol manufacturing facility. Shelled corn from the central shelling station is processed into ethanol at the ethanol manufacturing facility, and corn cobs from the central shelling station are burned to provide process heat for the ethanol manufacturing process. Energy is conserved and costs are reduced during the picking and shelling of the ear corn and by the burning of cobs for process heat.
US08247195B2	Methods and host cells for recombinant protein expression Methods for expressing recombinant polypeptides in host cells and host cells for polypeptide expression are provided.
US08247193B2	Method for producing α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-β-ester and method for producing α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-α-methyl ester A method of producing an α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-β-ester by forming the α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-β-ester from L-aspartic acid-α,β-diester and L-phenylalanine using an enzyme or enzyme-containing substance that has an ability to selectively link L-phenylalanine to an α-ester site of the L-aspartic acid-α,β-diester through a peptide bond.
US08247192B2	Penicillin-G acylases The present disclosure relates to engineered penicillin G acylase (PGA) enzymes having improved properties, polynucleotides encoding such enzymes, compositions including the enzymes, and methods of using the enzymes.
US08247191B2	Disposable cassette and method of use for blood analysis on blood analyzer A disposable cassette for blood analysis includes a housing having an upper panel and a sampling section having a filling inlet; at least one pair of chambers in a form of depression of the upper panel of the housing and sealed by a diaphragm; portions of the diaphragm over the chambers being flexible; and one or more channels adapted to interconnect the pair of chambers; one of the chambers containing a predetermined amount of a reagent for blood analysis; and a sample outlet disposed next to and connected to the chamber containing the reagent, the sample outlet including an outlet cavity recessed from the upper panel, a divider disposed therein, and a cover covering the outlet cavity; the sample outlet sealing the reagent to the chamber containing the reagent. Further disclosed is the method of using the disposable cassette for measurements of hematology parameters on a blood analyzer.
US08247190B2	Method for delivering cytotoxic activity to cells This invention relates to altered forms of members of the RNase A superfamily. An RNase A can be modified to be cytotoxic by altering its amino acid sequence so that it is not bound easily by the ribonuclease inhibitor while still retaining catalytic properties. While earlier work had identified some modifications to RNase A that would result in cytotoxicity, the use of the FADE algorithm for molecular interaction analysis has led to several other locations that were candidates for modification. Some of those modifications did result in RNase A variants with increase cytotoxicity.
US08247188B2	FAS binding antibodies The disclosed invention relates to monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) which recognize human fatty acid synthase (hFAS) and are distinct from previously known anti-hFAS antibodies. Compositions, devices and kits comprising the MAbs are provided along with methods of using the MAbs in a variety of applications.
US08247185B2	Conformation specific antibodies The disclosure provides, inter alia, binding proteins (e.g., antibodies) that bind to an integrin in an activated conformation, e.g., activated LFA-1 (“aLFA-1 ”), e.g., relative to a non-activated conformation of LFA-1. In one embodiment, the binding proteins inhibit at least one function of an aLFA-1, e.g., inhibit a binding interaction between aLFA-1 and a cognate ligand of aLFA-1, e.g., an ICAM protein. The binding proteins can be used to treat or prevent an inflammatory disorder or other disorder.
US08247184B2	Assays using chimeric T1R polypeptides for identifying putative taste modulatory compounds This invention relates to chimeric taste receptors comprising the extracellular portion of one T1R or a variant or fragment thereof, either T1R1 or T1R2, and the transmembrane portion of another T1R or a variant or fragment thereof, either T1R1 or T1R2, preferably associated with a T1R3 polypeptide and a suitable G protein. These chimeric taste receptors and cells which express such chimeric taste receptors are useful in assays for identifying sweet and umami ligands as well in assays for identifying sweet and umami enhancers. Additionally, these chimeric taste receptors and cells which express same can be used to map and determine where specific sweet and umami ligands interact with their respective receptors and to elucidate the mechanism of receptor activation.
US08247183B2	Compositions and methods for diagnosis and treatment of tumors Based on the observation of the cooperation of osteopontin (OPN) and matrixmetalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in the promotion of the metastatic phenotype, therapies and diagnostic assays are disclosed for the treatment of a tumor that overexpresses OPN, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), for example metastatic HCC. In one example, methods of treating a tumor include administration of an agent that reduces cellular invasion resulting from the interaction between a fragment of OPN (OPN-5kD) generated by MMP-9 cleavage and CD44 receptor. Examples of such agents include fragments of OPN-5kD and antibodies specific for OPN-5kD. Therapeutic compositions are also provided that include such agents. Also provided are methods of diagnosing or prognosing a tumor, for example by detecting expression of OPN-5kD peptide or OPN-c mRNA in a biological sample obtained from the subject. Also provided are antibodies that specifically bind OPN-5kD.
US08247182B2	Upregulation of rack-1 in melanoma and its use as a marker The present invention concerns a method for diagnosing a melanoma in a mammal comprising the detection of the overexpression of RACK-1 protein in a melanocytic cell of said mammal, and the deduction of the presence of a melanoma from the overexpression of RACK-1 protein. The invention is also directed to a method for determining the tumoral status of a melanocytic cell of a mammal, comprising the detection of overexpression of RACK-1 protein in the melanocytic cell, and the deduction of the tumoral state of said cell from the overexpression of RACK-1 protein.
US08247180B2	Measuring receptor homodimerization The invention provides methods and kits for detecting and/or measuring receptor homodimers on a cell surface membrane. In one aspect, the methods employ pairs of probes comprising binding compounds and a cleaving probe, such that at least one binding compound binds specifically to the same epitope of a membrane-bound analyte as the cleaving probe. The binding compound includes one or more molecular tags attached through a cleavable linkage, and the cleaving probe includes a cleavage-inducing moiety that can cleave the linkage when within a defined proximity thereto. Binding of the two probes to a homodimer of a cell surface molecules results in release of molecular tags from the binding compounds, providing a measure of formation of the homodimeric complex.
US08247179B2	Processes for quantitative or qualitative detection of single-stranded nucleic acids This invention provides for compositions for use in real time nucleic acid detection processes. Such real time nucleic acid detection processes are carried out with energy transfer elements attached to nucleic acid primers, nucleotides, nucleic acid probes or nucleic acid binding agents. Real time nucleic acid detection allows for the qualitative or quantitative detection or determination of single-stranded or double-stranded nucleic acids of interest in a sample. Other processes are provided by this invention including processes for removing a portion of a homopolymeric sequence, e.g., poly A sequence or tail, from an analyte or library of analytes. Compositions useful in carrying out such removal processes are also described and provided.
US08247175B2	Diagnostic assay for lung transplant Methods and compositions for determining the suitability of a lung for transplantation are described.
US08247174B2	Methods of diagnosing endometriosis The present invention provides biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of endometriosis. Generally, the methods of this invention find use in diagnosing or for providing a prognosis for endometriosis by detecting the expression levels of biomarkers, which are differentially expressed (up- or down-regulated) in endometrial cells from a patient with endometriosis. Similarly, these markers can be used to diagnose reduced fertility in a patient with endometriosis or to provide a prognosis for a fertility trial in a patient suffering from endometriosis. The present invention also provides methods of identifying a compound for treating or preventing endometriosis. Finally, the present invention provides kits for the diagnosis or prognosis of endometriosis.
US08247171B2	Method for detection of presence of target polynucleotide in samples A method for detecting the presence of a target polynucleotide in a sample, including providing a mixture of the sample and target binding agent and measuring a signal from the mixture, where the target binding agent is capable of assuming a first position where the target binding agent is not bound to the target polynucleotide and a second position where the target binding agent is bound to the target polynucleotide, and the intensity of the signal depends on the proportion of target binding agent in the first and second positions. The method is suitable for detecting a PCR product using a homogeneous detection method.
US08247167B2	HIV-1 latency model for high throughput screening Isolated, latently infected T cell lines are provided that can be utilized in high throughput screening to discover compounds capable of activating HIV-I. The T cell lines harbor a latent HIV-I derived vector pro virus, which upon activation expresses a marker for late viral gene expression due to the insertion of the marker gene in the position of HIV-I envelope.
US08247166B2	Double patterning process A double pattern is formed by coating a first positive resist composition onto a substrate, patternwise exposure to radiation, and development with alkaline developer to form a first resist pattern; applying heat and/or radiation to render the first resist pattern insoluble in a second solvent and in a second developer; coating a second resist composition on the first resist pattern, patternwise exposure to radiation, and development with second developer to form a second resist pattern. The resin in the first resist composition comprises recurring units of formula (1) wherein R1 is H, CH3 or CF3, m=1 or 2, n=0 or 1.
US08247165B2	Upper layer film forming composition for liquid immersion and method of forming photoresist pattern An immersion upper layer film composition is provided which exhibits sufficient transparency for the exposure wavelength 248 nm(KrF) and 193 nm(ArF), can form a protective film on the photoresist film without being intermixed with the photoresist film, is not eluted into water used during immersion exposure to maintain a stable film, and can be easily dissolved in an alkaline developer. The composition applied to coat on the photoresist film when using an immersion exposure device which is irradiated through water provided between a lens and the photoresist film, the composition comprises a resin forming a water-stable film during irradiation and being dissolved in a subsequent developer, and a solvent containing a monovalent alcohol having 6 or less carbon atoms, and the resin contains a resin component having an alcoholic hydroxyl group on the side chain containing a fluoroalkyl group on at least the carbon atom of α-position.
US08247164B2	Resist film forming method The method prepares a substrate provided thereon with a first resist film having a first pattern of first pillars spaced at intervals, the pillars having a first height, and forms a second resist film on the substrate. The second resist film is formed by alternately performing, each at least twice, applying of a resist solution to the substrate such that at least the spaces between adjacent first pillars are filled with a resist solution having a thickness smaller than the first height, and by heat-treating of the substrate to solidify the resist solution thus applied, thereby forming a resist layer, whereby the spaces between the adjacent first pillars are filled with resist layers, as the second resist film, having a total thickness at least approximately equal to the first height.
US08247159B2	Positive resist composition and method of forming resist pattern A positive resist composition including a resin component (A) which exhibits increased alkali solubility under action of acid and an acid-generator component (B) which generates acid upon exposure, the resin component (A) including a structural unit (a0) represented by general formula (a0) shown below and a structural unit (a1) derived from an acrylate ester having a polycyclic group-containing, acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group of a tertiary alkyl ester-type: wherein: R represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a lower alkyl group or a halogenated lower alkyl group; Y1 represents an aliphatic cyclic group; Z represents a tertiary alkyl group-containing group; a represents an integer of 1 to 3, and b represents an integer of 0 to 2, such that a+b=1 to 3; and each of c, d and e independently represents an integer of 0 to 3.
US08247158B2	Molecular resists based on functionalized polycarbocycles The present invention refers to new organic molecules, derived from the class of polycarbocycle derivatives, and their application as components of photoresists, and in particular as components of photoresist compositions where no polymer is comprised as one of the photoresists components. In these photoresist formulations the new molecule(s) is/are the main component(s) (i.e. percentage higher than 50% w/w).
US08247154B2	Method for producing toner The present invention is to provide a method for producing a toner capable of sufficiently decreasing the percentage of moisture content of a wet cake in the process of obtaining colored resin particles in wet state (wet cake), capable of reducing the workload in the following drying process, and thus excellent in productivity. A method for producing a toner comprising the steps of: a process of obtaining an aqueous dispersion of colored resin particles by forming colored resin particles by a wet method; a process of obtaining the colored resin particles in wet state (wet cake) by supplying the aqueous dispersion of the colored resin particles to a belt filter and performing solid-liquid separation; and a process of drying the wet cake, wherein a filter cloth continuous running type belt filter is used as the belt filter in the process of obtaining the wet cake, and the filter cloth continuous running type belt filter has a separation-washing mechanism, in which the aqueous dispersion of the colored resin particles is supplied on a lower filter cloth of the belt filter, the colored resin particles are separated followed by washing, and thus the wet cake is formed, and a pressure-ventilation mechanism, in which the wet cake is covered with an upper filter cloth, the wet cake, disposed between the upper and lower filter cloths, is ventilated while pressure is applied to the wet cake, and thus the wet cake having low percentage of moisture content is obtained.
US08247152B2	Method for reducing wear on an electro-photographic printer drum A method for reducing wear upon an electro-photographic printer drum includes the steps of determining a non-image region of a page to be printed, applying a halftone pattern of toner to a portion of the printer drum corresponding to the non-image region, and rotating the printer drum against a cleaning blade, the halftone pattern of toner providing lubrication between the drum and the cleaning blade.
US08247151B2	Liquid toner, electrophoretic ink, and methods of making and use LEP ink includes a carrier and particles dispersed in the carrier. Particles contain polymeric resin and dendritic macromolecule having functional groups. Some dendritic macromolecule functional groups are coupled to some resin functional groups. Other dendritic macromolecule functional groups are not coupled to any component of the resin. Other resin functional groups are not coupled to any component of the dendritic macromolecule. Liquid toner producing methods include forming a paste containing a carrier liquid and a thermoplastic resin having a polymeric backbone and functional groups. The paste is combined with a colorant and an adhesion promoting dendritic macromolecule having functional groups. After combining the paste and dendritic macromolecule, the method includes coupling the dendritic macromolecule functional groups with resin functional groups, encapsulating the colorant in the resin/dendritic macromolecule, and dispersing the encapsulated colorant in the carrier liquid. The dendritic macromolecule increases durability in printed images using the ink or toner.
US08247149B2	Electrophotographic developer carrier, electrophotographic developer, image forming method, process cartridge and image forming apparatus To provide an electrophotographic developer carrier including a carrier core material, and a coat layer containing a binder resin and conductivity-imparted microparticles which are produced by imparting conductivity to inorganic microparticles, the coat layer being formed over the carrier core material, wherein the electrophotographic developer carrier has a static resistivity of 10 [Log (Ω·cm)] or higher and a dynamic resistivity of 9 [Log (Ω)] or lower, and is used in an electrophotographic developer together with a negatively chargeable toner having an average circularity of 0.925 to 0.970, and wherein the toner includes a resin, a colorant and an inorganic layered mineral in which at least part of interlayer ions is modified with organic ions, and is granulated by dispersing and/or emulsifying an oil phase and/or a monomer phase containing at least a toner composition and/or a toner composition precursor in an aqueous medium.
US08247147B2	Toner A toner including toner particles containing at least a binder resin and a colorant. The binder resin is a vinyl-based resin. The toner contains a THF insoluble matter in a quantity of 0.0 mass % or more to less than 16.0 mass %. The toner has a main peak in a molecular weight domain Dr1 ranging from 5,000 to 80,000 in measurement of THF soluble matter of the toner with a gel permeation chromatogram (GPC)-differential refractive index detector (RI), and the toner has a main peak in a molecular weight domain Dm1 ranging from 10,000 to 120,000 and at least one peak in a molecular weight domain Dm2 ranging from 300,000 to 7,000,000 in the GPC-RI measurement in measurement with a GPC-multi-angle laser light scattering detector (MALLS).
US08247143B2	Photoreceptor, image formation method, image forming apparatus and process cartridge A photoreceptor including an electroconductive substrate, a photosensitive layer located overlying the electroconductive substrate, and a surface layer located overlying the photosensitive layer, wherein the surface layer is a cross linked surface layer comprising filler particulates on which linear scar is formed along the circumference direction, and the filler particulates form concave portions on a groove formed by the linear scar, and wherein the ten point average roughness Rz along the direction of the rotation axis of the photoreceptor measured on the circumference surface thereof is from 0.17 to 2.00 μm and the average distance Sm of concavities and convexities along the direction of the rotation axis of the photoreceptor measured on the circumference surface thereof is from 20 to 500 μm, and the ten point average roughness Rz along the circumference direction of the photoreceptor measured on the circumference surface thereof is from 0.13 to 0.50 μm and the average distance Sm of concavities and convexities along the circumference direction of the photoreceptor measured on the circumference surface thereof is from 10 to 40 μm.
US08247135B2	Light-weight, flexible edge collected fuel cells The invention is a flexible, micro-fabricated fuel cell and fuel cell stack that can be helically wound or bend into cylindrical shapes. The electrolyte is a proton exchange membrane (PEM) upon which can be printed, by ink jet means, the anode and cathode electrodes and the current collectors that convey current to or from the edges of the PEM which has a thickness on the order of 0.001 to 0.010 inch. Pluralities of the series connected fuel cell stacks can be arranged in electrical and physical parallel with one another to provide what are batteries of fuel cell stacks that can be connected by manifolds to sources of fuel and oxidizer. The invention is directed to a thin, light-weight, flexible fuel cell assembly that can be produced in ambient conditions using standard micro-fabrication techniques, such as thick film printing and ink jet deposition. Thick film printing techniques, screen printing or ink jet printing, are used to deposit porous current collectors on either side of the membrane.
US08247133B2	Fuel cell A fuel cell includes a separator having circular disks. On a surface of each of the circular disks, a fuel gas channel is provided for supplying a fuel gas to an anode. The fuel gas channel includes ring shaped grooves and ridges provided alternately, wherein the width of the ring shaped grooves gradually increases outwardly from a fuel gas inlet.
US08247128B2	Fuel cell A fuel cell includes electrolyte electrode assembly and separators. An annular member and a ring foil are provided between the separators. The annular member is provided around an outer circumferential portion of the electrolyte electrode assembly, and includes grooves for discharging a first exhaust gas FGoff which has been consumed at an anode to the outside of the electrolyte electrode assembly. The ring foil is provided adjacent to a cathode, and extends from a position between an outer end of the electrolyte electrode assembly to a position between the annular member and the separator.
US08247123B2	Electric power source control apparatus, electric power source control method, and vehicle including electric power source control apparatus An electric power source control apparatus (50) includes a required electric power decision portion that receives an operation input signal from an outside of an electric power source (20), and decides an amount of electric power required of the electric power source (20), in accordance with the operation input signal; and an electric power source operation portion that operates the electric power source (20) in accordance with the amount of the required electric power. The electric power source operation portion limits an amount of electric power used for heating when the amount of the required electric power is larger than an amount of electric power that can be supplied by the electric power source, during heating.
US08247116B2	Electrode of lithium ion battery, method for making the same, and lithium ion battery using the same An electrode of a lithium ion battery includes a current collector, an electrode material layer disposed on a top surface of the current collector, and a protective film located on a top surface of the electrode material layer. A composition of the protective film is at least one of AlxMyPO4 and AlxMy(PO3)3, M represents at least one chemical element selected from the group consisting of Cr, Zn, Mg, Zr, Mo, V, Nb, and Ta, and a valence of M is represented by k, wherein 0
US08247115B2	Wound-type electric storage device including electrode sheets A positive electrode sheet including a positive electrode mixture layer formed on one surface is provided at one of the outermost layers of an electrode sheet group, while a positive electrode sheet including a positive electrode mixture layer formed at one surface is provided at the other outermost layer of the electrode sheet group. A negative electrode sheet including negative electrode mixture layers formed on both surfaces is provided between the positive electrode sheets. A lithium electrode sheet including metal lithium foils formed on both surfaces is overlapped onto the electrode sheet group formed by stacking the three sheets. When a wound-type electric storage device is produced, the electrode sheet group is wound together with the lithium electrode sheet.
US08247113B2	Titanates of perovskite or derived structure and applications thereof Materials of the titanate type of perovskite or derived structure and their uses for the production of electrodes, more particularly in the cell elements of an SOFC cell or the cell elements of a high-temperature steam electrolysis cell.
US08247106B2	Method for preventing erroneous loading of component-to-be-loaded on main body side apparatus, component-to-be-loaded and battery pack A battery device to be loaded on an electronic apparatus comprises a casing configured to house at least one battery cell therein and having upper and lower surfaces, first and second longitudinal side surfaces disposed between the upper and lower surfaces, and an end wall disposed between the upper and lower surfaces and also disposed between the first and second longitudinal side surfaces. A step is disposed in the end wall and a storage element is disposed in the step to receive an electric contact portion, the step extending to the first longitudinal side surface, and the end wall extends from the second longitudinal side surface to the step and projects beyond the step.
US08247105B2	Battery holder and power supply using the same A power supply includes a battery and a battery holder. The battery includes a positive electrode protruding outwardly and a negative electrode opposite the positive electrode. The battery holder includes a housing to receive the battery defining a latching groove in an inner surface thereof; an elastic member fixed in the housing and resisting the negative electrode of the battery; a protecting member positioned in the housing including an insulated fixing sheet, a plurality of extending portions extending from a side surface of the fixing sheet, and a latching portion formed on the extending portion engaging the latching groove of the housing. A positive conductive sheet is fixed in the fixing sheet and contacts the positive electrode of the battery.
US08247104B2	Battery cover mechanism A battery cover mechanism for a portable electronic device includes a housing, a door, two elastic members and a holding unit, the housing defines a cutout, the door slidably engage with the cutout, the cutout is closed by the door with the elastic resisting the door, the door can be opened by external force and not be removed from the housing, thus, a battery can be assembled in the housing.
US08247099B2	Gas exhaust structure of battery A gas exhaust structure of a battery includes a rupture valve formed in a battery body, and a pipe unit composed by integrating a coupling pipe and an exhaust pipe with each other. A one-side opening of the coupling pipe is coupled to the rupture valve. The exhaust pipe is coupled to an other-side opening of the coupling pipe, guides gas that spouts out from an inside of the battery body through the rupture valve and the one-side opening of the coupling pipe, and exhausts the gas to an outside. The exhaust pipe is arranged to be offset with respect to the rupture valve without allowing an extended line that passes through a center of the rupture valve and a centerline of the exhaust pipe to be perpendicular to each other.
US08247097B1	Method of controlling battery pack humidity utilizing an active reactivation system A method for controlling the relative humidity within a battery pack enclosure is provided in which the volume of air within the battery pack is exposed to a volume of desiccant contained within a desiccant enclosure. The system is configured to heat and reactivate the desiccant at predetermined time intervals or when the humidity within the system reaches a preset level, thereby allowing the desiccant to regain its potential for absorbing/adsorbing water vapor.
US08247093B2	Magnetic multilayer device, method for producing such a device, magnetic field sensor, magnetic memory and logic gate using such a device This magnetic multilayer device comprises, on a substrate, an alternating sequence of magnetic metallic layers M and oxide, hydride or nitride layers O. The number of layers M equals at least two. The layers M are continuous. There is interfacial magnetic anisotropy perpendicular to the plane of the layers at the level of the M/O interfaces.
US08247091B2	Platinum complex compound and organic electroluminescent device An organic electroluminescent device is provided and has at least one organic layer between a pair of electrodes. The organic compound contains a compound represented by the following formula (I): Z1 and Z2 each represents a nitrogen-containing aromatic 6-membered ring coordinating to platinum atom at the nitrogen atom, Q represents a nitrogen-containing aromatic 5-membered ring having one or two nitrogen atoms, L1 and L2 each represents a single bond or a divalent group, and n represents 0 or 1.
US08247089B2	Organic electroluminescence element material, organic electroluminescence element, display device and lighting apparatus Provided is an organic EL element, which has a controlled emission wavelength, a high emission efficiency and a long emission life. An organic EL element material for such organic EL element, a lighting device, and a display device using such organic EL element are also provided.
US08247087B2	Compound having oxadiazole ring structure bonded with aromatic heterocyclic ring and organic electroluminescent device An object of the invention is to provide an organic compound having excellent characteristics as a material for highly efficient and highly durable organic EL devices, and also to provide a highly efficient and highly durable organic EL device. This invention relates to a compound represented by the general formula (1) having an oxadiazole ring structure bonded with an aromatic heterocycle, and to an organic electroluminescence device containing the compound: wherein Ar represents a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic hydrocarbon group, a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic heterocyclic group, or a substituted or unsubstituted condensed polycyclic aromatic group; A represents a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic heterocyclic group; and n represents an integer of 1 to 3.
US08247086B2	Organometallic complex and light-emitting element, light-emitting device and electronic device using the same An organometallic complex having a structure represented by the general formula (G1) is synthesized and applied to a light-emitting element. In the formula, R1 represents either an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or an alkoxycarbonyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms; R2 and R3 each show either hydrogen or an alkyl group 1 to 4 carbon atoms; Ar represents an arylene group having 6 to 25 carbon atoms; M is a center metal selected from Group 9 element and Group 10 element.
US08247083B2	Aluminium alloy brazing sheet To provide an aluminum alloy brazing sheet which can improve erosion resistance while maintaining post-braze strength, brazability, formability, corrosion resistance and other properties even when Mg is added to the core material. The aluminum alloy brazing sheet comprises an Al—Si-based or Al—Si—Zn-based filler material cladded on at least one side of a core material. The core material comprises Si: 0.3 to 1.0% by mass, Mn: 0.6 to 2.0% by mass, Cu: 0.3 to 1.0% by mass, Mg: 0.15 to 0.5% by mass, Ti: 0.05 to 0.25% by mass, with the remainder being Al and inevitable impurities, and has the density of an Mg—Si-based, Al—Mg—Cu-based, Al—Cu—Mg—Si-based intermetallic compound with a particle size smaller than 0.5 μm of 10000/mm2 or higher, or has the density of the Mg—Si-based, Al—Mg—Cu-based and Al—Cu—Mg—Si-based intermetallic compounds with a particle size of 1.0 μm or larger lower than 5000/mm2.
US08247082B2	Aluminum alloy brazing sheet There is provided an aluminum alloy brazing sheet having an improved brazability than in the related art while keeping the post-braze strength, workability, corrosion resistance, and the like at respective prescribed or higher levels. An aluminum alloy brazing sheet has a two-layered structure in which on one side of a core material, a brazing material is provided. The core material contains Si: 0.6 to 1.0 mass %, Cu: 0.6 to 1.0 mass %, Mn: 0.7 to 1.8 mass %, Mg: 0.1 to 0.7 mass %, and Ti: 0.06 to 0.20 mass %, and the balance including Al and inevitable impurities. The brazing material includes an aluminum alloy containing Si: 3.0 to 12.0 mass %, the gage of the aluminum alloy brazing sheet is 0.6 to 1.4 mm, and the area ratio of a {001} plane in the core material surface is 0.3 or more.
US08247078B2	Fluorine-containing acrylate Photocurable fluorine compound, compatible with non-fluorine organic compounds, of formula (1), wherein: a is 1-4, b is 0-3, c is 1-4, provided that a+b+c is 3-5; e is 2-8; R1 has formula (2), (C4H8O)f(C3H6O)g(C2H4O)h(CH2O)iR3 (2) wherein f, g, h, and i are independently 0-100, and R1 has an MW of 30-3000, these repeating units may be sequenced at random, and R3 is C1-10 hydrocarbon; R2 is independently H, F, CH3, or CF3; Rf is a perfluoropolyether residue represented by the following formula (3), wherein j, k, l, and m are independently of each other integers of 0 to 50, provided that a molecular weight of Rf is in a range of 200 to 6000, X is F or CF3, and these repeating units may be sequenced at random; Z is a divalent organic group; and d is 0 or 1.
US08247077B2	Chemical protective garment with added flash fire protection In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a material intended for personal protective equipment is disclosed, wherein the material includes at least four different layers, the layers being: an outer first layer of a material comprising at least one polymer, which material is self-extinguishing; a second layer of a fiber material, which fiber material is self-extinguishing; a third layer being adhesive; and an inner fourth layer being a barrier laminate; wherein all at least four different layers individually are attached to layers located next to them. Furthermore, a protective suit including a material according to the present invention and the use of such a material for the production of personal protective equipment are also described. Moreover, a chemical and flash fire escape protective suit is disclosed, including a material according to the present invention, the suit meeting all of the basic requirements according to NFPA 1991, the suit having a minimum breakthrough time of at least 480 minutes for the chemicals according to NFPA 1991 when tested in accordance with EN 374-3 and ASTM F 739 with breakthrough criterion of 0.1 μg/cm2*min, the suit passing the permeation resistance test which lasts more than 180 minutes after flexing and abrasion according to NFPA 1991 and the suit passing the flame test according to ASTM F 1358 and the garment material flame test and the whole suit flash over test according to NFPA 1991 optional flash fire escape.
US08247075B2	Modified perovskite complex oxide, method for producing the same and composite dielectric material It is an object of the present invention to provide: a modified perovskite-type composite oxide, which effectively suppresses elution of A-site metals from a perovskite-type composite oxide, and which can be particularly preferably used as an inorganic filler for a composite dielectric body; a method for producing the same; and a composite dielectric material using the same. The modified perovskite-type composite oxide of the present invention is produced by primarily coating the particle surface of a perovskite-type composite oxide with silica and then secondarily coating it with a coupling agent, characterized in that the layer primarily coated with silica is produced by performing a heat treatment at 800° C. to 1200° C. on hydrolyzed silica obtained by the hydrolysis of tetraalkoxysilane.
US08247074B2	Coated, fine metal particles comprising specific content of carbon and nitrogen, and their production method A method for producing coated, fine metal particles comprising the steps of mixing powder comprising TiC and TiN with powder of an oxide of a metal M meeting the relation of ΔGM-O>ΔGTiO2, wherein ΔGM-O represents the standard free energy of formation of metal M oxide, and heat-treating the resultant mixed powder in a non-oxidizing atmosphere to reduce the oxide of the metal M with the powder comprising TiC and TiN, while coating the resultant metal M particles with Ti oxide, and coated, fine metal particles each comprising a metal core particle and a Ti oxide coating and having a carbon content of 0.2-1.4% by mass and a nitrogen content of 0.01-0.2% by mass.
US08247069B2	Polymer blend, polymer solution composition and fibers spun from the polymer blend and filtration applications thereof The invention relates to a web or filter structure such as the filtration media comprising a collection of fiber comprising a first polymer and a second polymer in a fine fiber or fine fiber web structure. The combination of two polymers provides improved fiber rheology in that the fiber has excellent temperature and mechanical stability. The combination of polymers imparts the properties of elasticity or tackiness, which is desirable for adhering particles to the fiber web, with high temperature resistance.
US08247067B2	Heat resistant coating compositions, coated articles, and methods A coating composition, coated articles, and methods of coating, wherein the composition includes: a resin system comprising a polysilazane and optionally a polysiloxane and/or optionally an aromatic hydrocarbon; and glass particles having a softening point below operating temperature, a coefficient of thermal expansion of at least 80, and a dielectric constant of at least 5.
US08247051B2	Curable polymeric water based coating compositions and resulting coatings with barrier properties for gases and laminate structures A coating composition is provided for use in laminate substrates useful in packaging of liquids and solids where the coating provides and increased resistance to the permeability of gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. In one embodiment the coating composition is a dispersion or a solution that comprises at least one hydroxyl functional polyetheramine, phosphoric acid and a defoamer. The backbone of the polyetheramine has diglycidyl ether linkages that comprise about 5 to about 70 mole percent resorcinol diglycidyl ether. The coating composition can be applied to substrates by coating applications such as spraying, rolling reverse and direct, rolling direct and reverse gravure, kiss coat, flow coating, brushing, dipping and curtain-wall coating, for example.
US08247046B2	Multi-layer tube of improved physical properties A tube having walls of multi-layer construction, wherein said multi-layer construction includes one or more sub-layers, each said sub-layer consisting of a woven polymer mesh disposed in between one or more outer layers of material selected from the group consisting of paper, poly-propylene and polyethylene, wherein said tube is formed by affixing said sub-layers to each other while said sub-layers are wound around a mandrel.
US08247040B2	Process for manufacturing platinum temperature-measuring resistance element The process for manufacturing a platinum temperature-measuring resistance element comprises the step of preparing a thermosensitive part having a portion to be sealed coated with a glaze; the step of placing a pre-sealing element on a tray and inserting the same in a chamber; the step of enclosing a purge gas containing an inert gas and oxygen in the chamber; the step of raising the internal temperature of the chamber to a region in which the platinum is in reduced form at a partial pressure of oxygen in the purge gas as determined from platinum oxide formation free energy; the step of replacing the purge gas with an inert gas wherein oxygen is 1 kPa or below; and the step of under the replaced condition, rapidly heating the furnace interior (interior of the chamber) to a fit melting temperature by means of a lamp heating unit to thereby seal the portion to be sealed of the thermosensitive part.
US08247039B2	Method and device for local functionalization of polymer materials A method for the partial or total modification of functional groups on the surface of polymeric materials or polymer-containing materials, by means of combined plasma functionalization and localized thermal defunctionalization, is disclosed. At first, a surface of a polymer material is exposed to a cold plasma, whereby a desired polymer functionalization is achieved. After the plasma treatment, the surface is locally heated in an optional manner, primarily by means of an electron beam, resulting in local defunctionalization of the heated surface area. The directing of the electron beam across the surface of the material results in any desired distribution of functional groups on the surface. Also disclosed is a device for performing such a treatment.
US08247036B2	Method for making coaxial cable A method for making a coaxial cable, the method comprises the steps of: providing a carbon nanotube structure; and forming at least one conductive coating on a plurality of carbon nanotubes of the carbon nanotube structure; a carbon nanotube wire-like structure from the carbon nanotubes with at least one conductive coating; at least one layer of insulating material on the carbon nanotube wire-like structure; at least one layer of shielding material on the at least one layer of insulating material; and one layer of sheathing material on the at least one layer of shielding material.
US08247035B2	Method for forming multilayer coating film This invention offers a method for forming multilayer coating film by successively applying onto a coating object a water-based first coloring paint, water-based second coloring paint and clear paint, and simultaneously baking the resultant first coloring coating film, second coloring coating film and clear coating film, in which the water-based first coloring paint (A) comprises polyester resin and curing agent, the polyester resin containing benzene ring and cyclohexane ring in its molecules, their combined content in the polyester resin being within a range of 1.0-2.2 mols/kg (solid resin content); and that the curing agent is at least one compound selected from the group consisting of isocyanate group-containing compound, oxazoline group-containing compound, carbodiimide group-containing compound, hydrazide group-containing compound and semicarbazide group-containing compound. According to this method, multilayer coating film excelling in smoothness, distinctness of image, chipping resistance and water resistance can be formed by 3-coat-1-bake system.
US08247031B2	Method for growing thin film Disclosed is a method for growing a thin film, which includes modifying a surface grain size and surface roughness on a thin film to improve the mobility of a carrier and a light scattering effect. The method for growing a thin film includes: forming nuclei of grains having various grain orientations on a substrate; causing first grains having a first specific grain orientation to grow predominantly among the grains having various grain orientations, thereby forming a first preferred texture comprised of the predominantly grown first grains; and then causing second grains having a second grain orientation to grow predominantly, thereby forming a second preferred texture comprised of the predominantly grown second grains, wherein the surface grain size of each of the second grains forming the second texture is larger than that of each of the first grains forming the first texture.
US08247029B2	Method for forming micropattern The micropattern formation of the invention comprises forming a resist pattern, and then forming a carbon-containing film on the surface of the resist pattern, followed by ashing of the carbon-containing film and a portion of the resist surface constituting the resist pattern. Thus, the discharge state of ashing just after the initiation of discharge is so stabilized that the ashing rate distribution can be improved, and sensitive pattern slimming can be implemented with ease and high precision.
US08247028B2	Method of using closed cell surfaces with enhanced drag-reduction properties A method of controlling the flow resistance of a fluid disposed on a surface of a substrate. The method comprises contacting a fluid with a plurality of cells on a substrate and adjusting amounts of a surfactant and a medium in the fluid to thereby form a foam layer contacting the walls of the cells. Each of the cells has at least one dimension that is less than about 1 millimeter and is configured to hold the medium therein. Each of the cells has walls that laterally enclose an area of a surface of the substrate and has a top opening. Bubbles of the foam layer have fluid walls that include a surfactant, are filled with the medium, and remain substantially stationary on the top openings of the cells for a period on average of at least about 1 minute.
US08247024B2	Method for manufacturing field emission cathode A method for manufacturing a carbon nanotube/polymer composite includes the steps of: (a) providing a carbon nanotube array formed on a substrate in a container; (b) providing a prepolymer of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); (c) putting the prepolymer into the container for a period of over 30 minutes to fill in clearances of the carbon nanotube array; and (d) polymerizing the prepolymer film at a temperature of about 50° C. to 60° C. for a period of about 1 hour to 4 hours and then heating the prepolymer film to about 90° C. to 100° C. to form a polymer film, the carbon nanotube array thereby being embedded within the polymer film.
US08247018B2	Methods for quality control The present invention relates to method for quality control of surface coated objects used independently or in conjunction with product authentication; methods for assuring proper product handling; methods for assuring that product contents' match product's label, comprising the use of microparticulate taggants having different detectable physical properties, wherein each combination of properties is used as an encoding bit to create codes.
US08247017B2	Production of frozen sweet potatoes A process for making frozen sweet potatoes includes the steps of slicing sweet potatoes, and then applying citric acid juice, preferably, lemon juice, to the slices. A coating then is applied to the slices, the coating including a mixture of corn syrup, honey, brown sugar, lemon flavor and vanilla flavor. The slices are pan-fried, cooled to room temperature, and then frozen. If desired, a flavor-enhancing mixture can be applied to the slices while they are being cooled. The flavor-enhancing mixture preferably includes cinnamon, cane sugar, allspice, and nutmeg. The invention does not require that the sweet potatoes be water-blanched in order to maintain the flavor and color of the sweet potatoes, and it provides coated sweet potato slices that are both flavorful and attractive. The sweet potato slices can be stored for long periods of time by freezing, and they can be cooked easily and quickly by conventional techniques immediately upon removal from the freezer.
US08247014B2	Apparatus and method for applying fondant to confections A fondant rolling device comprises three main parts: an axle member, a roller member, and a base member. Fondant is rolled onto the roller member, and the applied to the confection by unrolling the fondant therefrom. As the fondant is unrolled from the roller member and the fondant roller becomes smaller, the axle slides from a central portion of the base toward an outer periphery of the base, so that the fondant may be applied to the confection without interference from the base member.
US08247012B2	Casein producing method and a device for carrying out said method The invention can be used in varies industries, in particular, in the food, paper, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.The inventive method consists in separating unpasteurized cow milk in a separator, wherein a skimmed milk and fats are separated. Said method is characterized in that it consists in pasteurizing said skimmed milk in a pasteurizer at a determined temperature, in cooling said milk and conveying it to an intermediate balance tank from which the milk is supplied to a micro-filtering membrane-type filter for dividing it into casein and whey proteins, in supplying the separated casein protein to a membrane-type ultrafiltration-defiltration filter, wherein the concentrated product is transferred to a drier for drying, and in cooling and packing the thus produced water-soluble casein flour.
US08247008B2	Digestive/laxative compositions Described are digestive/laxative compositions and methods of manufacture and use of same. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides for a digestive/laxative composition including actinidin. The actinidin is preferably contributed by inclusion of fruit of genus actinidia, or a product thereof. Preferably, the process for forming the composition includes a method in which the fruit is processed at a temperature below that causing significant degradation of actinidin present, this temperature being preferably in the range of −40° C. to 40° C. Methods of administration of the composition are also described.
US08247004B2	Plant extracts for treating skin disorders and enhancing healing of wounds for diabetic patients The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for treating skin disorders, including enhancing the healing of wounds for diabetic patients. Specifically, this invention relates to the use of the extracts of Plectranthus amboinicus and Centella asiatica for improving skin disorders, including enhancing the healing of wounds for diabetic patients, and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the extracts of Plectranthus amboinicus and Centella asiatica as well as a wound dressing comprising the same. The invention also provides a method for preparing the crude extract and extract of Plectranthus amboinicus.
US08247001B2	Anti-obesity product and its method of preparation The present invention relates to compositions comprising one or more anthraquinones for use in the treatment of obesity and related metabolic and liver disease. More particularly it relates to a plant extract fraction rich in anthraquinones including both anthraquinone glycosides and anthraquinone aglycones obtainable from a member of the Leguminosae family, more particularly Cassia seeds. It also relates to a method of obtaining a plant extract fraction rich in anthraquinones.
US08247000B2	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 calcium salts.
US08246999B2	Capped mesoporous silicates The invention provides an article comprising, a mesoporous silicate matrix, such as a particle, having one or more pores; and one or more releasable caps obstructing one or more of the pores. The articles are useful as delivery vehicles for encapsulated agents such as therapeutic agents, polynucleotides, polypeptides and the like.
US08246998B2	Injectable biodegradable particles According to an aspect of the invention, injectable polymeric particles are provided that contain a copolymer that contains a hydroxy-acid-based repeat unit selected from a mono(hydroxy acid) unit and a poly(hydroxy acid) unit, an alkyl-ether-based repeat unit selected from a mono(alkyl ether) unit and a poly(alkyl ether) unit, and an acid-based repeat unit selected from a unit comprising multiple carboxylic acid groups and a derivative thereof. Other aspects of the invention pertain to methods of making such particles. Still other aspects of the invention pertain to injectable compositions that comprise such particles and to methods of treatment that employ such injectable compositions.
US08246996B2	Antibiotic product, use and formulation thereof An antibiotic product is comprised of at least three dosage forms, each of which has a different release profile, with the Cmax for the antibiotic product being reached in less than about twelve hours after the initial release of antibiotic. In one embodiment, there are two delayed release dosage forms, as well as a delayed sustained release dosage form, with each of the dosage forms having a different release profile, wherein each reaches a Cmax at different times.
US08246995B2	Hydrophobic nanotubes and nanoparticles as transporters for the delivery of drugs into cells Methods and materials for delivering biologically active molecules to cells in vitro or in vivo are provided. The methods and materials use carbon nanotubes or other hydrophobic particles, tubes and wires, functionalized with a linking group that is covalently bound to the nanotubes, or, alternatively, to the biologically active molecule, such as a protein. The biologically active molecule is preferably released from the nanotube when the complex has been taken up in an endosome.
US08246993B2	Advantageous hydrogel composition New hydrogel, including a hydrogel containing cationic BSA is included in a vaccine to stimulate the immune system to increase the potency of the vaccine.
US08246990B2	Hydrogen bonded hydrogels The present invention relates to new hydrogel materials using water gellants that are comprised by hydrophilic polymers to which hydrogen bonding units are covalently attached. Optionally, the hydrogel contains additional ingredients or additives. These new reversible hydrogels can easily be fine-tuned in their mechanical performance and functionality and are especially suitable for cosmetic and biomedical applications.
US08246978B2	Dermal delivery device with reduced loss of its volatile components This invention relates to a transdermal drug delivery device that comprises an active ingredient (AI) layer, having a skin contacting surface and a non-skin contacting surface and comprising a volatile component, a release liner impermeable to the volatile component adjacent the skin contacting surface of the AI layer having a perimeter that extends beyond the perimeter of the AI layer in all directions, and an overlay comprising a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) that does not absorb the volatile component adjacent the non-skin contacting surface of the AI layer having a perimeter of which extends beyond the perimeter of the AI layer in all directions, wherein the release liner and the PSA of the overlay are in contact with and adhered to each other around the perimeter of the AI layer to form a seal that reduces or prevents volatile component loss.
US08246977B2	Transdermal delivery systems Transdermal delivery systems for administering sufentanil through the skin are provided. The systems contain a sufficient amount of sufentanil to induce and maintain a constant state of analgesia when applied to a subject. The systems are characterized as having one or more features including a high degree of dosage form rate control over flux of sufentanil from the system, a high net flux of sufentanil from the system through the skin, lack of a permeation enhancer, an adhesive member demonstrating superior shear time, a low coefficient of variation in the net flux of sufentanil from the system, a high delivery efficiency, and a substantially constant steady state net flux of sufentanil from the system. Methods of using the transdermal delivery systems to administer a sufficient amount of sufentanil to induce and maintain analgesia for extended periods when applied to a subject are also provided.
US08246971B2	Compositions containing aromatic aldehydes and their use in treatment Disclosed are pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions containing aromatic aldehyde compounds. Some of the disclosed compositions are useful as topical therapeutics for treating inflammatory dermatologic conditions. Some of the compositions are useful in transdermal and other systemic dose forms for treating other inflammatory conditions in mammals.
US08246970B2	Water-in-oil solid emulsion-type cosmetic compositions A cosmetic composition in the form of a water-in-oil solid emulsion includes an aqueous phase dispersed in a fatty phase, wherein the fatty phase includes at least one wax whose melting point is between 25° and 42° C., which is in solid form in the form of crystallites with a shape factor at least equal to 2.
US08246963B2	Vaccine for Edwardsiella disease and streptococcal disease in fish Disclosed is a vaccine for edwardsiellosis and streptococcosis in a fish. Specifically, disclosed is a vaccine for edwardsiellosis in a fish, which comprises inactivated cells of (A) an Edwardsiella tarda strain derived from the target fish, and inactivated cells of (B) an Edwardsiella tarda strain derived from a fish other than the target fish, wherein, when the strain (A) is a typical Edwardsiella tarda strain, the strain (B) is an atypical Edwardsiella tarda strain, whereas when the strain (A) is an atypical Edwardsiella tarda strain, the strain (B) is a typical Edwardsiella tarda strain. Also specifically disclosed is a vaccine for edwardsiellosis and/or streptococcosis in a fish, which comprises the components mentioned above and inactivated cells of (C) Streptococcus iniae and/or Streptococcus parauberis.
US08246962B2	Canine influenza virus and vaccine therefore Novel influenza viruses A/Canine/Korea/01/07 (H3N2), A/Canine/Korea/02/07 (H3N2) and A/Canine/Korea/03/07 (H3N2) are disclosed. A vaccine composition comprising at least one of the viruses, a method for preventing or treating diseases resulting from influenza virus infection by administering the vaccine composition, and an assay kit for detecting the viruses are also disclosed.
US08246961B2	Powder composition, method for producing the same, and food composition, cosmetic composition and pharmaceutical composition containing the same A powder composition of a functional oil material is obtained by drying an emulsion composition comprising at least one functional oil component and (i) at least one water-soluble encapsulating agent selected from saccharide containing at least two sugar units including a fructose unit or (ii) at least one water-soluble encapsulating agent selected from saccharides containing at least one galactose unit and one fructose unit. Food compositions, cosmetic compositions and pharmaceutical compositions are provided which contain the powder composition described above.
US08246955B2	Substance specific to human PD-1 The present invention relates to a substance specific to human PD-1 comprising a part that recognizes human PD-1, a part that recognizes a membrane protein in cell membrane of human PD-1-expressing cells, and linkers. Since the substance specific to human PD-1 selectively can recognize human PD-1 and a membrane protein on cell membrane of human PD-1-expressing cells and can transmit inhibitory signal of human PD-1, it is useful for therapy and/or prevention of diseases caused by immunopathy.
US08246953B2	Compositions and methods for use for antibodies against sclerostin The present invention relates to antibodies against sclerostin and compositions and methods of use for said antibodies to treat a pathological disorder that is mediated by sclerostin or disease related to bone abnormalities such as osteoporosis.
US08246951B2	Collagenolytic active enzyme containing compositions, and their use in the dental field The invention relates to a composition comprising at least one collagenolytic active enzyme with enzymatic activity at acidic pH for drilless enzymatic caries removal. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a process of producing this collagenolytic active enzyme comprising composition and to processes of removing caries. The invention also relates to the use of collagenolytic active enzyme comprising compositions for producing a treatment agent for dental applications.
US08246950B2	Stable digestive enzyme compositions Compositions of the present invention, comprising at least one digestive enzyme (e.g., pancrelipase) are useful for treating or preventing disorders associated with digestive enzyme deficiencies. The compositions of the present invention can comprise a plurality of coated particles, each of which is comprised of a core coated with an enteric coating comprising at least one enteric polymer and 4-10% of at least one alkalinizing agent, or have moisture contents of about 3% or less, water activities of about 0.6 or less, or exhibit a loss of activity of no more than about 15% after six months of accelerated stability testing.
US08246947B2	Methods of using adipose tissue-derived cells in augmenting autologous fat transfer Methods of treating patients for conditions such as breast augmentation, soft tissue defects, and urinary incontinence, are described. The methods include removing adipose tissue from a patient, processing a portion of the adipose tissue to obtain a substantially isolated population of cells comprising disaggregated adipose-derived stem cells, mixing the concentrated population of adipose-derived cells comprising disaggregated adipose-derived cells with a portion of unprocessed, intact, non-disaggregated adipose tissue to form a composition, and administering the composition to the patient from which the adipose tissue was removed.
US08246943B2	Prebiotic composition The present invention provides for use of a composition comprising black tea flavonoids as a prebiotic and/or for the treatment or prevention of conditions associated with poor gut health or low immunity. The flavonoids comprise thearubigin in an amount of at least 82% by weight of the tea flavonoids. Also provided is an edible product comprising the black tea flavonoids.
US08246939B2	Water-free preparation A water-free preparation, in particular for application to the lips, which contains a silicone-free phase which contains at least one polybutene and/or polyisobutene, at least one isoparaffin, at least one wax and/or wax ester and optionally conventional adjuvant and additive substances and a silicone-bearing phase which contains at least one fluorosilicone, at least one dimethicone, at least one dimethiconol and optionally a particulate phase and fillers.
US08246938B2	Hair care agent containing acetylpyridinium salts Cosmetic hair treatment agent free from hydrogen peroxide and/or the addition products thereof to organic and inorganic compounds and having, in a cosmetic carrier, at least one surface-active agent chosen from anionic, amphoteric and/or zwitterionic surfactants, and at least one acetylpyridinium derivative of formula (I) for improving the general condition of the fibers, for reducing hair damage in the interior of the hair and for increasing the elasticity of the hair.
US08246936B2	Hair cosmetic product A hair cosmetic product having a two agent hair cosmetic which contains a first agent containing an alkali agent and a second agent containing hydrogen peroxide, wherein at least one of the first and second agents contains a surfactant; and a foamer vessel which discharges a mixed liquid comprising the first and second agents in the form of foam. Another hair cosmetic product having a two agent type hair cosmetic which contains a first agent that includes an alkali agent and a second agent that includes hydrogen peroxide, and which is used after mixing the first and second agents immediately prior to use, and a foamer vessel from which a mixed liquid of the first and second agents is discharged in the form of foam.
US08246932B2	Non-radioactive traceable metal isotope-enriched nanoparticles and method of their use for determining biodistribution Composition of non-radioactive traceable metal isotope-enriched nanoparticles, and methods of their use for determining in-vivo biodistribution are provided. The methods comprise the steps of: (a) introducing the nanoparticles into the biological material, wherein the nanoparticles comprise at least one inorganic core, and the inorganic core comprises at least two metal isotopes in a predetermined ratio; wherein at least one metal isotope is enriched non-radioactive traceable metal isotope and (b) determining the distribution of the nanoparticles in the biological material based on the predetermined ratio of the metal isotopes.
US08246931B1	Development of a quail embryo model for the detection of botulinum toxin A method for using bird eggs to detect the presence of at least one botulinum toxin.
US08246930B2	Multicomponent assemblies having enhanced binding properties for diagnosis and therapy An organized mobile multicomponent conjugate (OMMC) and method of using to enhance binding of weakly binding compounds to a target. A lamellar structure containing at least two binding compounds is assembled under conditions in which the binding compounds self-regulate in or on the lamellar structure, forming a cooperative ensemble that is capable of binding with enhanced affinity to a complementary affinity site on a target. Each binding compound is bound to the lamellar surface, and may be connected by a linker. The OMMC may contain an effector molecule, such as a diagnostic or therapeutic agent, for administration to a patent who is then diagnosed or treated using the effector molecule.
US08246927B2	Process and apparatus for producing carbon nanotube, carbon nanotube fiber, and the like A chemical vapor deposition (CVD) device is equipped with a reaction vessel tube and a small vessel substrate in an electric furnace and with a heater and a thermocouple at the periphery thereof. A gas supply portion is connected to one of the reaction vessel tubes, and a pressure adjusting valve and an exhaust portion are connected to the other of the reaction vessel tubes, controlled by a control section such that the exhaust portion vacuum-exhausts the reaction vessel tube interior, the heater sublimates the small vessel substrate interior by rising temperature of catalyst iron chloride, and the gas supply portion bleeds an acetylene gas into the reaction vessel tube. As a result, iron chloride and the acetylene gas vapor-phase-react, a silicon oxide surface layer is formed to form growth nucleus of carbon nanotubes, and carbon nanotubes are grown so as to be oriented vertically.
US08246924B2	Combustion process for the manufacture of calcium phosphate and calcium phosphate composite particles The present application is directed to methods of manufacturing calcium phosphate particles. In particular, the method is directed at eliminating the requirement for a sintering step in the manufacturing process. The method involves the atomization and combustion of one or more antecedent compositions containing calcium precursors, phosphorus precursors and hydrogen peroxide.
US08246918B2	Propylene polymers for lab/medical devices Polymer compositions and articles formed therefrom are described herein. The compositions include a random copolymer and a radiation additive, wherein the random copolymer includes propylene and less than 2 wt. % ethylene and exhibits a melt flow rate of from about 30 to 100 dg/min., the polymer composition exhibits a flexural modulus of from about 160 kpsi to about 200 kpsi and the polymer composition is adapted to produce a polymer article exhibiting low plate out, a haze at 20 mils of no greater than 15%, radiation stability and autoclavability.
US08246917B2	Self-assembled, micropatterned, and radio frequency (RF) shielded biocontainers and their uses for remote spatially controlled chemical delivery The present invention relates to a nanoscale or microscale particle for encapsulation and delivery of materials or substances, including, but not limited to, cells, drugs, tissue, gels and polymers contained within the particle, with subsequent release of the therapeutic materials in situ, methods of fabricating the particle by folding a 2D precursor into the 3D particle, and the use of the particle in in-vivo or in-vitro applications The particle can be in any polyhedral shape and its surfaces can have either no perforations or nano/microscale perforations The particle is coated with a biocompatible metal, e g gold, or polymer e g parvlene, layer and the surfaces and hinges of the particle are made of any metal or polymer combinations.
US08246916B2	Evaporator/calciner Disclosed herein is provided an evaporator/calciner in which hazardous materials, such as radioactive liquids, are converted into chemically stable, solid forms by evaporating, drying and calcination within a single vessel, that can then be sealed and used for long term storage.
US08246914B2	Fluid catalytic cracking system One exemplary embodiment can be a fluid catalytic cracking system. The system can include a reaction zone operating at conditions to facilitate olefin production and including at least one riser. The at least one riser can receive a first feed having a boiling point of about 180-about 800° C., and a second feed having more than about 70%, by weight, of one or more C4+ olefins.
US08246911B2	Optical amplification of molecular interactions using liquid crystals Interactions between molecules that are components of self-assembled monolayers and other molecules can be amplified and transduced into an optical signal through the use of a mesogenic layer. The invention provides for a method for detecting an analyte, comprising contacting with said analyte a recognition moiety for said analyte, wherein said contacting causes at least a portion of a plurality of mesogens proximate to said recognition moiety to detectably switch from a first orientation to a second orientation upon contacting said analyte with said recognition moiety; and detecting said second orientation of said at least a portion of said plurality of mesogens, whereby said analyte is detected.
US08246909B2	Automated endoscope reprocessor germicide concentration monitoring system and method A method measures a property of a germicidal solution in an endoscope processor spectroscopically by placing a quantity of the solution into a cuvette and passing a light therethrough. A reservoir receives a quantity of the solution and bubbles are filtered out via a cross-flow filter prior to putting a sample therefrom into the cuvette for measuring.
US08246906B2	Antimicrobial composition A method for antimicrobial treatment (e.g. antimicrobial treatment of food packaging and equipment) comprising applying to microbes a composition containing a diluting solvent (e.g., water), an antimicrobially-active solvent having a density different from the density of the diluting solvent, and an optional cosolvent, surfactant, or additional antimicrobial agent, wherein the amount of antimicrobially-active solvent or additional antimicrobial agent is sufficiently high and the amount of cosolvent or surfactant is sufficiently low so that the composition will provide greater than a 1-log order reduction in the population of bacteria or spores of Bacillus cereus within 10 seconds at 60° C. Preferred methods of the invention employ compositions containing an additional antimicrobial agent such as peroxyacetic acid. Compositions for use in the method can be prepared as concentrates, and used full strength or in diluted form.
US08246905B2	Method for disinfecting a microtome cryostat A method for disinfecting a microtome cryostat (1) comprises a defrosting phase (11), provision (13) of a vaporous disinfection agent (2) which acts upon the closed cryostat chamber (3) and a period of time (14) during which said disinfection agent (2) acts, and having an associated device for carrying out the method. According to the invention, fast and effective disinfection and rapid restarting of a microtome cryostat (1) is possible with secure drying, the temperature difference (ΔT1, ΔT2) being produced after the period of time (14) in the cryostat chamber (3) whereupon the precipitated disinfection agent (2) is removed (18) to a cold area.
US08246904B2	Radiation sterilization of medical devices A method of radiation sterilizing a plurality of stent-catheter assemblies includes positioning a plurality of stent-catheter assemblies on a fixture, each of the stent catheter assemblies being arranged in a planar configuration and disposed in corresponding planar packages supported on the fixture, wherein the packages are stacked horizontally on the fixture, and wherein the stents of the assemblies are positioned at a position in each package such that the stents are exposed to the same or substantially the same radiation; and exposing the packages to an incoming radiation beam, the radiation beam being at an acute angle to the planes of the planar configuration of the assemblies, wherein the packages are arranged such that a front end of the stack faces the radiation beam and a back end of the stack faces away from the radiation beam.
US08246903B2	Dynamic dehydriding of refractory metal powders Refractory metal powders are dehydrided in a device which includes a preheat chamber for retaining the metal powder fully heated in a hot zone to allow diffusion of hydrogen out of the powder. The powder is cooled in a cooling chamber for a residence time sufficiently short to prevent re-absorption of the hydrogen by the powder. The powder is consolidated by impact on a substrate at the exit of the cooling chamber to build a deposit in solid dense form on the substrate.
US08246902B2	Method for manufacturing a plate-type heat pipe A method for manufacturing a plate-type heat pipe includes providing a mold including a first cavity and a plurality of second cavities and depositing cores into the mold. Each core has a first portion in the first cavity and a second portion in a corresponding second cavity. First and second metal powder are filled into the mold. The cores are then removed from the mold to form a green piece by the first and second metal powder, which has first and second chambers therein. The green piece is sintered, whereby the first metal powder forms an outer wall of the heat pipe and the second metal powder forms a wick structure. The heat pipe has a heat absorbing portion having the first chambers and fins having the second chambers communicating with the first chambers.
US08246901B2	Retort furnace for heat treating metal workpieces A furnace (1), which, for the heat treatment of metal workpieces, has a tubular metal retort (3) and a furnace housing (2) enclosing the retort (3), the retort (3) comprising a gastight closable treatment or batch space (10), which receives the protective and reactive gases, for the heat treatment of the workpieces and a receptacle framework (8) as a batch receptacle for the positioning thereof, the weight of the batch and the receptacle framework (8) is decoupled from the retort (3), the receptacle framework (8) is connected to means (5) for support on the furnace housing (2), and the means (5) are guided gastight in passages (6) of a wall (2.1) of the furnace housing (2) and a wall (3.1) of the retort (3).
US08246895B2	Injection molding method Molding methods and systems are disclosed for manufacturing molded items (10) with an integral substrate (50) formed thereon, particularly wherein the substrate has a metallic appearance and/or wherein the molded product is formed with a geometric feature (66) associated with an edge of the substrate adapted for at least partially obscuring the edge in the molded product.
US08246894B2	Flexible substrate, method of manufacturing display substrate, and method of manufacturing display panel A flexible substrate, a method of manufacturing a display substrate, and a method of manufacturing a display panel. A spinning device is filled with a source solution, and a carrier substrate is arranged such that the spinning device faces the carrier substrate. An electric field is formed between the spinning device and the carrier substrate by supplying a power to the spinning device and the carrier substrate, and a nano-fiber is formed by spraying the source solution toward the carrier substrate. A flexible substrate is formed on the carrier substrate by coating a polymer resin on the nano-fiber, a plurality of display cells are formed on the flexible substrate, and then a display substrate is formed by separating the carrier substrate from the flexible substrate.
US08246893B2	Method of molding a microneedle A method of molding a microneedle using a mold apparatus that includes the use of high frequency acoustic energy, such as ultrasonic energy.
US08246890B2	Multilayer articles and their production method Method of producing a multilayer article forming an axisymmetric body, said article comprising at least a base of diameter D joined to a side wall of average thickness T and of height H said method consisting in feeding a coextruded multilayer charge into the cavity of a mold then in compressing said charge in order to form the article, the charge forming a body axisymmetric about an axis of symmetry, the charge consisting of a radial stack of several layers of which at least one is a thin functional layer, the outer diameter of said charge being approximately equal to D, the direction of compression being parallel to the axis of symmetry of said charge, and the compression being carried out on one face of the charge, which method is characterized by the fact that the charge is compressed only on one portion of said face.
US08246889B2	Optofluidic lithography system, method of manufacturing two-layered microfluidic channel, and method of manufacturing three-dimensional microstructures An optofluidic lithography system including a membrane, a microfluidic channel, and a pneumatic chamber is provided. The membrane may be positioned between a pneumatic chamber and a microfluidic channel. The microfluidic channel may have a height corresponding to a displacement of the membrane and have a fluid flowing therein, the fluid being cured by light irradiated from the bottom to form a microstructure. The pneumatic chamber may induce the displacement of the membrane depending on an internal atmospheric pressure thereof.
US08246887B2	Imprint method and process for producing a chip that change a relative position between a member to be processed and a support portion An imprint method includes (i) holding a mold by a first holding portion, (ii) holding, by a second holding portion, a member to be processed so that the member to be processed is capable of bending by its own weight, (iii) supporting, by a support portion, a back surface of the member to be processed in a first area so that an amount of the bending is decreased, (iv) pressing a pattern of the mold against a front surface of the member to be processed, which is supported by the support portion in the first area, (v) supporting, by the support portion, the back surface of the member to be processed in a second area different from the first area, so that the amount of the bending is decreased, by changing a relative position between the member to be processed and the support portion, and (vi) pressing the pattern of the mold against the front surface of the member to be processed, which is supported by the support portion in the second area.
US08246883B2	Filter cartridge and method of construction thereof A filter cartridge includes a one-piece housing having a port and a filtration element disposed in the housing. The filtration element is a coherent filter block that can be larger in cross dimension than the port. The filtration element can be a coherent filter block that generally conforms to the shape of the hollow interior, but is slightly smaller than the hollow interior so as to define a gap between the filtration element and the inner surface. One method for constructing a filter cartridge includes providing a housing having a hollow interior and at least one port, introducing a granular material into the hollow interior via the port, and transforming the granular material in the hollow material into a coherent filter block. Another method for constructing a filter cartridge includes providing a filtration element in the form of a coherent filter block, and overmolding a housing around the filtration element.
US08246882B2	Methods and preforms for forming composite members with interlayers formed of nonwoven, continuous materials Materials and methods are provided for producing preform materials for impact-resistant composite materials suitable for liquid molding. Interlayers formed of nonwoven, continuous fibers, such as spunbonded, spunlaced, or mesh fabric, are introduced between non-crimped layers of unidirectional reinforcing fibers to produce a preform for use in liquid-molding processes to produce a composite member. Curing of the preform provides increased impact resistance by increasing the amount of energy required to propagate localized fractures due to impact.
US08246880B2	Method of producing cellulose ester film, cellulose ester film, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display Disclosed is a method for producing a cellulose ester film wherein a film-forming material containing the following components A-C is heated and melted, and a cellulose ester film is formed therefrom by melt-casting. A: a cellulose resin, B: an ester compound obtained by condensing an organic acid represented by Formula (1) and a polyalcohol, and C: an aliphatic polyester or an aliphatic-aromatic copolymer.
US08246879B2	Method and system for feeding a continuous rod of elastomeric material automatically to a user unit A method and system for feeding a continuous rod of elastomeric material automatically to a user unit along a feed line having at least one powered portion and extending between an extruder, for forming the rod, and the user unit, and wherein, upstream from the powered portion, the rod is fed along a supporting device defining, for the rod and when at rest, a first path of given fixed length; and wherein, once the rod reaches and is engaged by the powered portion, a movable part of the supporting device is withdrawn from the first path to feed the rod along a second path, one portion of which is a bend of variable length.
US08246874B2	Method for making carbon nanotube-based device A method for making a carbon nanotube-based device includes the steps of: providing a carbon nanotube yarn; preforming the carbon nanotube yarn into a predetermined shape; and heating the preformed carbon nanotube yarn so as to enable the carbon nanotube yarn to memorize the predetermined shape.
US08246870B2	Dental implant system and method of use A dental implant system includes an implant having a well and an abutment having a post shaped to be received in the tapered well. Both the implant and the abutment are made from a millable ceramic, and the abutment post and/or the implant well have grooves carved therein. In one embodiment, the implant and the abutment are joined one to the other with a retentive elastomeric product containing micro-bubbles and micro-spacers. The dental implant system may be produced using a computer-readable medium containing instructions for analyzing surface data and X-ray data, for developing contour data of the implant and of the abutment according to the anatomy of the patient, and for generating machine instruction for milling the implant and the abutment from blocks of the millable ceramic. The invention provides the dentist with total flexibility in determining the most appropriate contours of the implant system and in reducing inventory.
US08246868B2	Method for producing vesicle, vesicle obtained by the production method, and method for producing frozen particle used in production of vesicle A W/O emulsion is produced from an aqueous solution containing a substance to be entrapped in a vesicle in a dissolved or suspended state and an oil phase containing an emulsifier; subsequently, the W/O emulsion is cooled to a temperature at which the aqueous solution of the W/O emulsion becomes a frozen particle and the oil phase maintains a liquid state, and the oil phase is removed; thereafter, an oil phase containing a vesicle constituent lipid is added to the frozen particle, and the obtained mixture is then stirred, so as to substitute the emulsifier on the surface of the frozen particle with the vesicle constituent lipid; and thereafter, an external Water phase is added to the frozen particle coated with a lipid membrane, so as to hydrate the lipid membrane by the external water phase. This process achieves a high entrapment yield of a desired substance while controlling desired physical properties such as particle diameter.
US08246863B2	Alkali metal super ionic conducting ceramic Metal ion conducting ceramic materials are disclosed having characteristics of high ion conductivity for certain alkali and monovalent metal ions at low temperatures, high selectivity for the metal ions, good current efficiency and stability in water and corrosive media under static and electrochemical conditions. The metal ion conducting ceramic materials are fabricated to be deficient in the metal ion. One general formulation of the metal ion conducting ceramic materials is Me1+x+y−zMIIIyMIV2−ySixP3−xO12−z/2, wherein Me is Na+, Li+, K+, Rb+, Cs+, Ag+, or mixtures thereof, 2.0≦x≦2.4, 0.0≦y≦1.0, and 0.05≦z≦0.9, where MIII is Al3+, Ga3+, Cr3+, Sc3+, Fe3+, In3+, Yb3+, Y3+, or mixtures thereof and MIV is Ti4+, Zr4+, Hf4+, or mixtures thereof.
US08246860B2	Carbon nanotube composite, method for making the same, and electrochemical capacitor using the same A carbon nanotube composite includes a free-standing carbon nanotube structure and an amount of reinforcements. The free-standing carbon nanotube structure includes an amount of carbon nanotubes. The reinforcements are located on the carbon nanotubes and combining the carbon nanotubes together.
US08246857B2	Chemical composition useful as corrosion inhibitor The present invention relates to a chemical composition comprising (a) a glycoside component A comprising at least one glycoside of the formula R(OG)x wherein R is an aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having 1 to 25 carbon atoms or is a radical of formula R1(OR2)m which does not have more than 25 carbon atoms and wherein n=0 to 24 and R1 and R2 are aliphatic hydrocarbon radicals; G is the residue of a saccharide moiety selected from the group consisting of fructose, glucose, mannose, galactose, talose, gulose, allose, altrose, idose, arabinose, xylose, lyxose, ribose and alkoxylated derivatives thereof; and x is 1 to 30; (b) an aspartate component B comprising at least one polymerisation product of aspartic acid, optionally in form of a copolymerisate with fatty acids, polybasic carboxylic acids, anhydrides of polybasic carboxylic acids, polybasic hydroxycarboxylic acids, monobasic polyhydroxycarboxylic acids, alkoxylated alcohols, alkoxylated amines, amino sugars, carbohydrates, sugar carboxylic acids and polymers thereof. The invention further relates to the use of such chemical compositions as corrosion inhibitor.
US08246855B2	Polymerizable liquid crystal composition and optically anisotropic film using the same A polymerizable liquid crystal composition is provided that has a wide range where a liquid crystal phase is exhibited, has excellent solubility in an organic solvent, and is facilitated in control of an alignment state. The use of the polymerizable liquid crystal composition provides a polymerizable liquid crystal composition that has good solubility in a solvent with high safety, such as PGMEA, and can control various alignment states. The polymerizable liquid crystal composition in one aspect contains a fluorenone derivative represented by the formula (1) and a compound having a bisphenol skeleton represented by the formula (2). In the formulae (1) and (2), W1 represents hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, methyl or ethyl; X1 represents hydrogen, fluorine, methyl or trifluoromethyl; Z11 to Z14 are bonding groups; A1 represents a divalent cyclic group; Y1 represents alkylene having from 2 to 20 carbon atoms; A2 represents a divalent group having a bisphenol skeleton; X2 represents hydrogen, fluorine, methyl or trifluoromethyl; W2 represents hydrogen, halogen, alkyl or fluoroalkyl; Y2 independently represents a single bond, —CH═CH— or —(CH2)2—; and n2 independently represents an integer of from 2 to 15.
US08246853B2	Liquid alkali metal with dispersed nanoparticles and method of manufacturing the same The present invention relates to maintaining the fundamental physical properties of a liquid alkali metal with dispersed nanoparticles which is such that nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed and mixed in a liquid alkali metal used in heat exchange, cooling and other applications, and suppressing the reaction of the liquid alkali metal with dispersed nanoparticles. Provided is a method of manufacturing a liquid alkali metal with dispersed nanoparticles by dispersing nanoparticles in a liquid alkali metal. In this method, the nanoparticles are made of a metal having a large atomic bonding due to a combination with the liquid alkali metal compared to the atomic bonding of atoms of the liquid alkali metal and a metal having a large amount of charge transfer is used in the nanoparticles. The liquid alkali metal is selected from sodium, lithium and sodium-potassium alloys, and the nanoparticles to be dispersed are made of transition metals, such as titanium, vanadium, chromium, iron, cobalt, nickel and copper.
US08246852B2	Refrigerant composition An improved refrigerant composition, or a kit for an improved refrigerant composition, for use in air conditioners comprising a refrigerant, wherein the refrigerant comprises a hydrofluorocarbon having a GWP of less than about 10 and an ODP of about zero, which is present at a concentration of at least about 50% by weight of the refrigerant composition; a lubricant wherein the lubricant is a polar, oxygenated lubricant; and an acid scavenger comprising a siloxane, an activated aromatic compound, or any mixtures thereof.
US08246850B2	Hydrofluoroolefin compositions The present invention relates to compositions containing hydrofluoroolefins and to the uses thereof as heat transfer fluids, blowing agents, solvents and aerosols. More particularly, the invention relates to compositions having: 10 to 55% by weight, of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, 5 to 50% by weight of HFC-152a and 30 to 55% by weight of HFC-32.
US08246848B2	Process for producing base material for forming heat shielding film There is provided a production process of a heat-ray shielding film-formed base member comprising the steps of mixing a sol solution, formed by using a starting raw material of trialkoxysilane or trialkoxysilane and tetraalkoxysilane, with a solution in which tin-doped indium oxide ultra-fine particles are dispersed, to make a treatment agent; and applying the treatment agent to a base member. In this production process, the treatment agent has an organic solvent having a boiling point of 100-200° C. as a dispersion medium, and the application is conducted by a means by bringing a member retaining the treatment agent into contact with the base member or by a means by spraying the treatment agent, thereby adjusting haze value of the film to be formed to 0.5% or less.
US08246847B2	Separating method for conductive ceramics sintered body There are provided an aqueous solution for separation of a conductive ceramics sintered body in which a conductive ceramic sintered body separated form a glass can be collected in a recyclable condition, and a separating method therefor, and an aqueous solution for separation with which a dark ceramics sintered body, a conductive ceramics sintered body and a glass are separately collected from a glass with a dark ceramics sintered body in which a conductive ceramics sintered body is formed on the dark ceramics sintered body, and a separating method therefor. A treatment liquid having an etching ability for at least one of a glass and a conductive ceramic sintered body is prepared as an aqueous solution 20 for separation of the conductive ceramics sintered body, then the aqueous solution 20 for separation is filled in a container 11, and a glass with a conductive ceramics sintered body 30 is immersed into the aqueous solution 20 for separation in the container 11.
US08246843B2	Process and device for the separation of oil/water mixtures The invention describes a process for the separation of an oil/water mixture into an oil rich phase and a water rich phase using an inline separation device, an inlet, a vortex generating chamber, a central separation chamber, and an outlet and providing an oil rich phase discharge pipe and a water rich phase discharge pipe. The process further also comprising a) the provision of an additional tangential or axial inlet into the vortex generating chamber or the central separation chamber and introducing an additional amount of oil/water mixture tangentially and/or axially into the vortex generating chamber or the central separation chamber, or b) adjusting the vortex generating means to control the rotation of the vortex, or a combination of a) and b). The invention further relates to a device for carrying out the above process and to the use of such a device in the separation of oil/water mixtures.
US08246840B1	Method and apparatus for changing a diesel engine fuel filter A fuel removal device comprising: means for establishing releasable fluid communication with an interior volume of an engine-mounted diesel fuel filter; a first conduit affixed to the releasable communication means for conveying diesel fuel contained in the interior volume of the engine-mounted diesel fuel filter out of the fuel filter; a collection receptacle in fluid communication with the fuel conveying conduit, the collection receptacle having a plurality of walls and located external to the automotive vehicle associated with the engine-mounted diesel fuel filter and at least on pneumatic system controlling the removal of fuel from the diesel fuel filter.
US08246835B2	Apparatus and process for isomerizing a hydrocarbon stream One exemplary embodiment can be an apparatus for isomerizing a hydrocarbon stream rich in a C4 hydrocarbon and/or at least one of a C5 and C6 hydrocarbon. The apparatus can include: a first drier and a second drier adapted to receive a fluid including at least one reactant; and a reaction zone communicating with the first drier to receive the fluid including at least one reactant and with the second drier to receive the regenerant. Generally, the first drier operates at a first condition to dry the fluid including at least one reactant and the second drier operates at a second condition during regeneration with a regenerant. The regenerant is displaced from the drier using a down-flow regenerant displacement assembly.
US08246834B2	High pressure flash chromatography A method for separating a sample using high pressure flash chromatography is provided. The method comprises the steps of: i) providing a pressurized vessel containing an adsorption material; ii) pressurizing a compressible fluid, optionally containing a cosolvent, to create a mobile phase; iii) premixing the sample with the mobile phase or optionally placing the sample in the pressurized vessel; iv) eluting the mobile phase through the pressurized vessel, to obtain a separated sample; v) heating the mobile phase containing the separated sample after the mobile phase exits the pressurized vessel to remove the compressible fluid; and iv) collecting the separated sample. The pressurized vessel contains an adsorption material having a particle size of 10-100 microns, and the pressure of the adsorption vessel is held at 50-350 bar during elution. Also provided is an apparatus for carrying out the above method.
US08246832B2	Fluidics device The present invention contemplates various devices that are configured to separate a sample, which contains more than one unique species, into any desired number of sub-samples by passing the sample across a like number of separation media configured for a first separation protocol. Each of the sub-samples may be further separated by an additional separation protocol, thereby creating a plurality of mini-samples, each of which may be further separated and/or analyzed. The invention also contemplates using a simple method of using conduits to form a fluid path that passes through a plurality of separation media, each of which media is configured to isolate a particular sub-sample. After various sub-samples of the sample are isolated by the various separation media, the conduits may be removed, thereby enabling each of the isolated sub-samples to be further separated and/or analyzed independent of any other sub-sample.
US08246826B2	Hemodialysis systems and methods The present invention generally relates to hemodialysis and similar dialysis systems, including a variety of systems and methods that would make hemodialysis more efficient, easier, and/or more affordable. One aspect of the invention is generally directed to new fluid circuits for fluid flow. In one set of embodiments, a hemodialysis system may include a blood flow path and a dialysate flow path, where the dialysate flow path includes one or more of a balancing circuit, a mixing circuit, and/or a directing circuit. Preparation of dialysate by the preparation circuit, in some instances, may be decoupled from patient dialysis. In some cases, the circuits are defined, at least partially, within one or more cassettes, optionally interconnected with conduits, pumps, or the like. In one embodiment, the fluid circuit and/or the various fluid flow paths may be at least partially isolated, spatially and/or thermally, from electrical components of the hemodialysis system. In some cases, a gas supply may be provided in fluid communication with the dialysate flow path and/or the dialyzer that, when activated, is able to urge dialysate to pass through the dialyzer and urge blood in the blood flow path back to the patient. Such a system may be useful, for example, in certain emergency situations (e.g., a power failure) where it is desirable to return as much blood to the patient as possible. The hemodialysis system may also include, in another aspect of the invention, one or more fluid handling devices, such as pumps, valves, mixers, or the like, which can be actuated using a control fluid, such as air. In some cases, the control fluid may be delivered to the fluid handling devices using an external pump or other device, which may be detachable in certain instances. In one embodiment, one or more of the fluid handling devices may be generally rigid (e.g., having a spheroid shape), optionally with a diaphragm contained within the device, dividing it into first and second compartments.
US08246820B2	Fluid purification systems and methods Apparatuses and methods for removing volatiles from fluid systems. The apparatuses and methods include evaporator sections. The apparatuses and methods may furthermore include a heater disposed at least in part in the evaporator section, which may have a ridge on its surface. The apparatuses and methods may furthermore include an evaporation tube positioned around the heater, which may have a conically shaped outer surface. The apparatuses and methods may also include an air inlet and an air outlet in the evaporator section.
US08246818B2	Syphon filtration system A syphon filtration system is a low head, small foot print, long operating cycle, gravity filtration system for treatment of water and wastewater, with one-stage or two-stage filtration in one vessel with different filtration media of sand, anthracite, granular activated carbon or other proprietary filtration media. The one-stage filtration system removes suspended solids or dissolved impurities and the two-stage filtration system removes suspended solids and dissolved impurities. In the two-stage filtration system, each filtration stage can be backwashed independently or both stages can be backwashed simultaneously. Novel syphon piping and controls design extend the filtration operating cycle and reduce the filter apparatus headroom, and the filter backwash water volume requirements.
US08246817B2	Deionization filter for fuel cell vehicle coolant A novel deionization filter for removing ions from a coolant in an electric fuel cell vehicle cooling system is disclosed. The deionization filter includes a filter housing having a coolant inlet port, through which the coolant enters the filter housing; and a coolant outlet port, through which the coolant exits the filter housing. An ion exchange bed having positively-charged and negatively-charged ion exchange resin beads is provided in the filter housing for removing negative and positive ions, respectively, from the coolant. At least one filter assembly is typically provided in the filter housing for filtering particles from the coolant.
US08246813B2	Method of removing hydrogen sulfide The invention provides a method of removing sulfides from viscous petroleum streams such as asphalt, crude oil, and oil slurry using zinc octoate in which the molar ratio of zinc complexed with octanoic acid is not 1:2. Because zinc has a +2 charge and carboxylic acid has a −1 charge, it was previously assumed that all zinc octoates must have a 1:2 ratio of zinc moieties to carboxylic acid. Zinc octoate formulations however, that contain a non 1:2 ratio, and those with 2.1:3 to 1.97:3 in particular, have in fact been shown to work better. In addition, these non 1:2 formulations have lower viscosity and therefore are easier to use than the previous formulations including a 1:2 ratio.
US08246809B2	Apparatus and method for electroplating a substrate in a continuous way An apparatus and a method deposits a metal coating on an electrically conductive substrate in a continuous way. The apparatus includes at least one plating vessel for receiving an electrolyte solution and at least one plating unit. The plating unit includes a first zone comprising at least one first electrode (anode) connected to a positive pole of a power supply; a second zone comprising at least one second electrode (cathode) connected to a negative pole of the power supply; and an intermediate zone between the first zone and the second zone. The intermediate zone separates the first zone from the second zone by a predetermined distance larger than zero. The substrate functions as a cathode having a current density Jc when the substrate is facing the first electrode, and as an anode having a current density Ja when the substrate is facing the second electrode.
US08246804B2	Treatment of aqueous chemical waste A method for the treatment of an aqueous stream containing both anionic and cationic species is provided. The method comprises the following steps. Circulating water continuously through an essentially closed loop, the loop incorporating an ion adsorption unit which, in turn, comprises a water permeable layer of an ion adsorbing material. Feeding an aqueous solution containing the anionic and the cationic species to the essentially closed loop. Passing the circulating water, including the aqueous solution containing the ionic and the cationic species, through the ion adsorbing material in the ion adsorption unit in a continuous manner. While at the same time applying an electric potential across the thickness of the layer of ion adsorbing material and removing from the ion adsorption unit more concentrated aqueous solutions of the separate ionic species. Discharging each of the aqueous solutions from the ion adsorption unit. Passing the more concentrated solution of the other ionic species through a reaction unit in which the ionic species reacts to form a water-insoluble solid material. Recycling eluate from the reaction unit to the ion adsorption unit; and, if necessary, adding a quantity of water to the closed loop, this quantity corresponding the quantity of aqueous solution removed from the reaction unit.
US08246795B2	Lens module fabrication method A method for fabricating a lens module includes forming an IR-cut filter, forming a shading block on part of a surface of the IR-cut filter, forming a blocking layer on the IR-cut filter and the shading block, forming an electromagnetic shielding layer on the blocking layer, polishing the electromagnetic shielding layer and the blocking layer to expose the shading block, removing the shading block from the IR-cut filter to form an optical component, mounting a lens in the barrel portion adjacent to the IR-cut filter portion, and packaging the holding portion of the optical component to a printed circuit board to form the lens module.
US08246791B2	Multi-stage column distillation (MSCD) method for osmotic solute recovery A method and apparatus for separating draw solution solutes and product solvent from a draw solution using a plurality of distillation columns is disclosed. In one embodiment, the draw solution is used in a Forward Osmosis (FO) water desalination process. In this embodiment, the draw solution is directed to the plurality of distillation columns in parallel while the energy stream (heat) is directed to the plurality of distillation columns in series such that the efficiency of heat use is improved and in turn the cost of the heat is reduced.
US08246784B2	Pulp mould and use of pulp mould This invention relates to a porous pulp mold comprising sintered particles and a plurality of drainage channels. The pulp mold of the invention can be produced in a fast and cost effective way. The molding surface of the invention comprises small pore openings, to evacuate fluid and prevent fibers from entering the pulp mold. Furthermore the pulp mold of the invention comprises drainage channels improving the drainage capabilities of the pulp mold. The molding surface can be heated to at least 200° C., due to high heat conductivity of the pulp mold and its ability to withstand high temperatures.
US08246783B2	Device and method for surface processing webs of paper and similar endless non-wovens by means of a heatable roller A roller for thermal pressure treatment of web-type media such as paper or non-wovens, provided with an inner heating system and comprising a base body made of hardened and tempered wrought steel or alloyed cast iron, an intermediate layer applied to the surface thereof and a hard wearing layer applied thereon. Peripheral bores or canals extending parallel to the axis are arranged in the base body of the roller at a regular distance from the surface, being distributed in a regular manner on the circle formed about the roller axis. The materials used and the arrangement of the peripheral bores are such that the roller can be used in calanders in a method wherein the surface temperatures of the roller exceed 140° C., the heating capacity is more than 35 kW/m2, operational speeds are more than 1200 m/min, line pressures are greater than 250 kN/m and the processed webs of material weigh more than 45 g/m2 and have a degree of moisture of over 5%.
US08246781B2	Thermosetting creping adhesive with reactive modifiers A creping adhesive comprising a PAE composition comprising a reactive, light crosslinked polyamidoamine-epichlorohydrin polymer (PAE-type polymer) optionally in combination with a reactive modifier and the corresponding method for of creping cellulosic fiber webs with the adhesive.
US08246778B2	Method for controlling enzymatic decomposition of peroxide A method is described controlling enzymatic decomposition of peroxide comprising contacting a composition containing a peroxide decomposing enzyme with an aldehyde functional polymer added in an amount effective to control the enzyme. There also is a method described for bleaching cellulose pulp, such as recycled paper pulp or other pulps, with an aldehyde functional polymer introduced in an amount effective to control peroxide decomposing enzymes present in the pulp being bleached. Paper products containing the aldehyde functional polymer used to control peroxide decomposing enzymes in a bleaching treatment of cellulose pulp are also provided.
US08246772B2	Programmable rollformer for combining an architectural sheet with a solar panel and method A programmable machine and method for adhering a flexible photovoltaic film panel onto metal supplied from a roll for forming a combination solar and roof panel is provided. The voltaic film panels and metal to which is adhered are supplied on rolls which are fed from reels. The rollformer can form male and female edges on the metal which are necessary for a metal roof. The angle at which the exit cutter can cut is calculated by the programmable computer. A measuring device for measuring the roofing and transferring the data to the programmable machine or the placement of the solar film panels and the cutting of the panels is also provided.
US08246767B1	Heat treated 9 Cr-1 Mo steel material for high temperature application The invention relates to a composition and heat treatment for a high-temperature, titanium alloyed, 9 Cr-1 Mo steel exhibiting improved creep strength and oxidation resistance at service temperatures up to 650° C. The novel combination of composition and heat treatment produces a heat treated material containing both large primary titanium carbides and small secondary titanium carbides. The primary titanium carbides contribute to creep strength while the secondary titanium carbides act to maintain a higher level of chromium in the finished steel for increased oxidation resistance, and strengthen the steel by impeding the movement of dislocations through the crystal structure. The heat treated material provides improved performance at comparable cost to commonly used high-temperature steels such as ASTM P91 and ASTM P92, and requires heat treatment consisting solely of austenization, rapid cooling, tempering, and final cooling, avoiding the need for any hot-working in the austenite temperature range.
US08246764B2	Copper alloy sputtering target and semiconductor element wiring A first copper alloy sputtering target comprising 0.5 to 4.0 wt % of Al and 0.5 wtppm or less of Si and a second copper alloy sputtering target comprising 0.5 to 4.0 wt % of Sn and 0.5 wtppm or less of Mn are disclosed. The first and/or the second alloy sputtering target can further comprise one or more elements selected from among Sb, Zr, Ti, Cr, Ag, Au, Cd, In and As in a total amount of 1.0 wtppm or less. A semiconductor element wiring formed by the use of the above targets is also disclosed. The above copper alloy sputtering target allows the formation of a wiring material for a semiconductor element, in particular, a seed layer being stable, uniform and free from the occurrence of coagulation during electrolytic copper plating and exhibits excellent sputtering film formation characteristics.
US08246761B2	Workpiece designed for rolling stresses and formed of fully hardening steel, and a heat treatment process therefor A workpiece is designed for rolling stresses and includes a body having a core zone and a carbonitrided surface zone which surrounds the core zone. The workpiece body is formed of a fully hardening steel. The core zone has a bainite microstructure as its main constituent. The surface zone of the workpiece has a mixed microstructure comprising martensite and bainite and the martensite in the surface zone constitutes a proportion of at least twenty percent by volume.
US08246757B2	Pyrolysis methods and ovens therefor Pyrolysis methods for disassociating an organic mass, or coating from an article, by placing the article in an air tight processing chamber, circulating a gaseous mixture of ambient air and at least 40% water vapor from an opening, through the processing chamber and out of an exhaust port, and maintaining the processing chamber at a temperature above 650 degrees Fahrenheit for a sufficient time to disassociate the organic material. A batch oven and a continuous processing oven including entrance and exit air closures that utilize the pyrolysis methods are described.
US08246755B2	In situ morphological characterization of foam for a proximity head In an example embodiment, a wet system delivers a flow of cleaning foam through a channel in a proximity head to a meniscus interfacing with a semiconductor wafer. The wet system diverts a sample of the flow from the channel through a transparent cell that is connected to the channel by an input passage that leads from the channel to the transparent cell and by an output passage that leads from the transparent cell back to the channel. The wet system illuminates the sample in the transparent cell with an LED from the top or the back and captures an image of the illuminated sample with a CCD camera. The image shows a morphological attribute of the cleaning foam such as bubble diameter or spacing. The wet system generates a statistical characterization from the morphological attribute and adjusts other attributes of the cleaning foam based on the statistical characterization.
US08246745B2	Method and device for producing metal foils A method and device for producing metal foils using the foil-casting principle includes the steps of filling a casting frame with liquid metal, moving a substrate through the bottom of the casting frame, with the substrate belt being at a lower temperature than the melting point of the liquid metal in the bottom of the casting frame, so that a bottom layer of the liquid metal crystallizes on the substrate and a metal foil is formed on the substrate on one side of the casting frame. The method further includes the steps of measuring at least one of a thickness and weight of the metal foil, and adjusting the contact surface area between the liquid metal and the substrate as a function of the measured value for the thickness and/or weight of the foils produced.
US08246740B2	Method and product for varying the thickening time of a class G cement used in completing a subterranean wellbore Spent Claus catalyst having a high alumina content is used as an ingredient in the manufacture of Portland cements in place of all or a portion of a conventional source of alumina. The spent Claus catalyst is preferably of a small particle size and can be ground to the desired fineness before mixing with the other ingredients that are heated in a conventional kiln to produce the cement composition. Finely ground spent Claus catalyst can also be used as an additive at levels of 0.1% to 2% by weight to increase the thickening time of shallow casing cement slurries.
US08246738B2	Thickener for paint systems Starch(es) and starch derivatives are combined together with at least one high-viscosity cellulose as a thickener in dispersion binder-based color systems. The cellulose has a viscosity of >50,000 mPa·s, measured by the Brookfield rotation viscometer as a 2% swollen aqueous solution at 5 rpm and 25° C. A method produces dispersion binder-based color systems and a dispersion color thickener combination and a dispersion color containing the dispersion color thickener combination.
US08246737B2	Cellulose ester optical film, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display using the same, method of manufacturing cellulose ester optical film, and copolymer Disclosed is a cellulose ester optical film containing cellulose ester, a polymer (a) below and a compound (b) below: (a) a polymer obtained by copolymerization of an ethylenically unsaturated monomer having in the molecule a partial structure represented by formula (1) below with at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer, and (b) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of a compound represented by formula (2) below and a compound represented by formula (3) below,
US08246735B2	Coating composition for producing magnetically induced images The present invention is related to a coating composition for the production of a magnetically induced image, consisting of volatile components (S) and non-volatile components, the latter consisting of an ink vehicle (I) and magnetically orientable optically variable interference pigment (P), to a process for manufacturing the coating composition, and to the use of the composition for the production of a magnetically induced image coating on a substrate with the help of applied magnetic fields. Said magnetically induced image coating may be used as a security device on value- or identity documents, brand protection labels and the like.
US08246731B2	Systems and methods for extraction of carbon dioxide from air The present invention describes methods and systems for extracting, capturing, reducing, storing, sequestering, or disposing of carbon dioxide (CO2), particularly from the air. The CO2 extraction methods and systems involve the use of chemical processes. Methods are also described for extracting and/or capturing CO2 via exposing air containing carbon dioxide to a solution comprising a base—resulting in a basic solution which absorbs carbon dioxide and produces a carbonate solution. The solution is causticized and the temperature is increased to release carbon dioxide, followed by hydration of solid components to regenerate the base.
US08246728B2	Compressed-air supply device and valve housing A compressed air-supply device for a utility vehicle includes a valve housing and an exchangeable air-drying cartridge. The air-drying cartridge has a filter device which cleans the air flowing from the valve housing into the air-drying cartridge. The filter device separates the pre-filter area facing the valve housing from the post-filter area that faces the air-drying cartridge and in which foreign particles captured by the filter device are collected. A non-return valve is provided parallel to the filter device, which prevents air flowing from the pre-filter area to the post-filter area but allows the air flow from the post-filter area to the pre-filter area. The non-return valve is arranged in the valve housing.
US08246727B2	Methods and devices for reducing hazardous air pollutants The disclosure provides methods and systems for sequestering and/or reducing sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and/or carbon dioxide present in industrial effluent fluid streams. A solid particulate material comprising a slag component, a binder component (distinct from the slag component), and optionally water is formed and then contacted with the effluent fluid stream to reduce at least one of the sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and/or carbon dioxide. The contacting of the effluent stream may occur in a packed bed reactor with the solid dry particulate material. Methods of reducing pollutants from exhaust generated by combustion sources, lime and/or cement kilns, iron and/or steel furnaces, and the like are provided.
US08246723B2	Air collector with functionalized ion exchange membrane for capturing ambient CO2 An apparatus for capture of CO2 from the atmosphere comprising an anion exchange material formed in a matrix exposed to a flow of the air.
US08246722B2	Use of iron ore agglomerates for acid gas removal A regenerable sorbent for the removal of acid gas from a fluid stream. The regenerable sorbent is made from raw materials such as iron mineral, expansive clay and starch. Acid gas is removed from the fluid stream by a process where the raw materials are obtained, crushed, sifted, possibly pelletized, calcined and contacted with the fluid stream containing the acid gas.
US08246721B2	Method for removing N2O from a gaseous flow The invention relates to a method for purifying a supply gaseous flow containing at least 5 vol. % of N2O and oxygen, in which: (a) the gaseous flow is contacted with a main adsorbent (3) including at least one zeolite exchanged at more than 50% by one or more metal cations and having an N2O adsorption capacity, as measured under 1 bar and at 200° C., of more than 80 Ncm/g in order to adsorb at least a portion of the N2O from said flow and to produce a purified gaseous flow; and (b) recovering a purified gaseous flow having an N2O content lower than the N2O content of the supply gaseous flow contacted with the main adsorbent during step (a).
US08246720B2	Electrostatic aerosol concentrator An electrostatic aerosol concentrator includes an airflow chamber with alternately energized and grounded electrode elements that work in concert to impart radial inward motion to charged aerosol particles and focusing them toward an enriched aerosol outlet. Aerosol particles entering the airflow chamber may carry a positive or negative charge naturally, or a charge may be induced on the particles using a charging section located upstream of the aerosol inlet. Natural or induced charges on the aerosol particles may be used to selectively concentrate subpopulations of aerosol particles from a mixture of particles. For example, bacterial spores or aerosolized viruses may be selectively enriched without concentrating other aerosol particles.
US08246718B2	Process for separating carbon dioxide from flue gas using sweep-based membrane separation and absorption steps A gas separation process for treating flue gases from combustion processes, and combustion processes including such gas separation. The invention involves routing a first portion of the flue gas stream to be treated to an absorption-based carbon dioxide capture step, while simultaneously flowing a second portion of the flue gas across the feed side of a membrane, flowing a sweep gas stream, usually air, across the permeate side, then passing the permeate/sweep gas to the combustor.
US08246716B2	Method in connection with steel production A method of producing a fluxing agent that can be used in production of steel, preferably stainless steel, employs as a raw material a hydroxide sludge that results from neutralization of metal-contaminated pickling liquid from a pickling step for a steel and contains at least one fluoride-containing compound. The hydroxide sludge is calcined. Steel, preferably stainless steel, is produced by decarburizing a steel heat, whereby a slag is formed on top of the steel heat, and adding a fluxing agent to the slag.
US08246712B2	Soapstock treatment apparatus, soapstock treatment method, and method for manufacturing fertilizer derived from soapstock Disclosed is a soapstock treatment apparatus which can treat a soapstock produced during a plant oil production process within a short period and with a high degree of efficiency. As shown in FIG. 1, the soapstock treatment apparatus includes a reactor 20 configured to oxidatively decompose a soapstock, an electric heating coil 23 configured to heat water in the reactor 20 at 650° C. which is not less than the critical temperature of water, a high-pressure pump 13 configured to pressurize the water in the reactor 20 at 17 Mpa which is less than the critical pressure of water, and a compressor 33 configured to pressurize the water in the reactor 20 at 17 Mpa which is less than the critical pressure of water. Also, an exhaust pipe 41 for discharging a reaction gas generated by the oxidative decomposition treatment and a waste pipe 51 for discharging a solid (inorganic) residue generated by the oxidative decomposition treatment are connected to the reactor 20. Furthermore, a gas-liquid separator 44 for separating the reaction gas into a gas substance and a liquid substance are connected.
US08246710B2	Honeycomb structural body An object of the present invention is to provide a honeycomb structural body with a long service life, which can reduce a pressure loss to a low level upon collecting particulates and maintain the pressure loss at the low level for a long time even after regenerating processes. The honeycomb structural body includes a columnar porous ceramic block in which a large number of through holes are placed in parallel with one another in the length direction with a wall portion interposed therebetween. Herein, the large number of through holes are constituted by a group of large-capacity through holes, each of which is sealed at one end of the honeycomb structural body so that the total sum of the areas on a cross section perpendicular to the length direction is made relatively great, and a group of small-capacity through holes, each of which is sealed at the other end of the honeycomb structural body so that the total sum of the areas on the cross section is made relatively small, and a surface roughness Ry of the wall face of the through hole is set in a range from 10 to 100 μm.
US08246707B2	Filter element having sealing members and methods A filter arrangement includes a media construction comprising a corrugated sheet secured to a flat sheet rolled into a coiled construction. A frame and a first seal member are provided. The frame secures the first seal member to the coiled construction. The first seal member is preferably oriented to form a radial seal with a housing. A second seal member is secured to the outer annular surface of the coiled construction. The second seal member includes a gasket extension having first and second opposite ends; an attachment portion; and a protrusion extending from the attachment portion. The second seal member is preferably oriented to form an axial seal with a housing. Air cleaners preferably utilizing filter arrangements as described herein operably installed within housings. Methods of installing, filtering, assembling, and servicing preferably include arrangements as described herein.
US08246705B2	Exhaust air mist separator A grease containment apparatus to remove grease and other contaminants from hot air exiting a kitchen area through a vent system which includes a vertical separator.
US08246704B2	Contained vorticies device A contained vortices device that allows for the flow of air or gas into and out of the device. In the process of gases moving through the device, a vortex is created within the device that allows for the separation of heavier materials, reduction of the size of any particulates, and the expelling of particulates of a significantly smaller size than was introduced to the device.
US08246702B2	Filter mechanism for internal combustion engines The invention relates to a filter device (10), in particular for filtering intake air of an internal combustion engine. The filter device (10) comprises a separator that is embodied in particular as a cyclone preseparator (26), moreover a main filter element (36) exchangeably arranged in a housing compartment (68) of the filter housing (12), as well as a secondary filter element (38) that in the flow direction of the fluid to be cleaned is arranged downstream. The housing compartment (68), for facilitating premounting of the main filter element (36) therein, comprises insertion stays (64). The main filter element (36) is embodied in particular as a double bellows filter, comprising a first radially inwardly positioned filter bellows (40) and a second radially outwardly positioned filter bellows (42) surrounding it. Upon closing of a servicing cover (18) that closes the housing compartment (68) a sealing force is generated that acts onto the main filter element (36) and is maintained in the closed state of the servicing cover (18).
US08246698B2	Dyes with changeable solubilities, and methods for their use Disclosed herein are solubility changeable dye compositions, methods of preparing such compositions and methods of using them. The composition includes a dye component linked via a linker moiety to a stimulus responsive hydrophobic moiety which modulates the solubility of the dye, wherein the hydrophobic moiety is configured to be de-linked from the dye component on exposure to a stimulus and render the dye component more hydrophilic.
US08246697B2	Mixture of amides and cosmetic compositions comprising said mixture A mixture of amides of the following formula (I) is disclosed wherein —R1 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms; —R2 and R3 represent independently, a hydrogen atom or a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms which is optionally hydroxylated, provided that R2 and R3 are not a hydrogen atom at the same time; -n has a value in the range of 0.2 to lower than 3; characterized in that said mixture comprises: -amides (a) of formula (I) wherein R represents a C6-C24 alkyl or alkenyl group having even number of carbon atoms and at least a 95 wt. % of linearity; and -amides (b) of formula (I) wherein R represents a C5-C23 alkyl or alkenyl group having odd or odd and even number of carbon atoms and a 35-85 wt. % of linearity; and cosmetic compositions comprising said mixture, particularly dying compositions.
US08246684B2	Intervertebral disc and facet joint prosthesis An intervertebral disc and facet joints prosthesis includes (i) an intervertebral disc prosthesis element having an upper rigid prosthesis endplate, a lower rigid prosthesis endplate, and a core interposed between and attached to the rigid endplates, and (ii) at least one facet joint prosthesis element, each facet joint prosthesis element including an upper facet joint prosthesis component and a lower facet joint prosthesis component. The upper facet joint prosthesis component is constructed to cooperate with its respective lower facet joint prosthesis component, the upper facet joint prosthesis component being rigidly fixed to the upper endplate and the lower facet joint prosthesis component being rigidly fixed to the lower endplate. The prosthesis may be implanted by surgical procedures involving a posterior or postero-lateral approach.
US08246683B2	Spinal implant The present invention is a spinal implant that can be inserted into a surgically created cavity of one or more regions of the mammalian spine. Universal corner posts and one or more lateral universal posts are connected with a series of trapezoidal-like dividers. Embodiments of the cage can also include grips and superior and inferior plates.
US08246681B2	Methods for treating a fractured and/or diseased and/or weakened bone Introduction of a bone filler material into at least a portion of the cancellous bone volume pressurizes the bone filler material and compresses the cancellous bone volume within the bone structure.
US08246675B2	Kit for implanting in a duct A kit for implanting in a duct, which includes a tubular endoprosthesis and a prosthetic valve is disclosed. The prosthetic valve includes a carrier frame that is radially deformable in elastic manner relative to a central axis of the tubular endoprosthesis between a deployed, implanted position, and a folded, implanting position. The carrier frame is urged elastically towards its deployed position. A flexible shutter is connected to the carrier frame. The shutter is deformable between an obstruction position in which it is extended transversely, and a release position in which it is contracted transversely under to allow a fluid to flow through the carrier frame. The carrier frame also includes an integrated centripetal compressing mechanism for centripetally compressing the carrier frame towards folded position.
US08246673B2	External support for a blood vessel There is provided a support adapted for location exteriorly of a blood vessel, the support being locatable around the blood vessel and shaped to be in morphological relationship with the blood vessel, in which the support is formed from a settable material and the support is capable of being formed into a tube; and a method of morphometric analysis of a patient's blood vessel using an imaging scanner which method has the steps of: (i) obtaining a diametral cross-sectional image of the blood vessel; (ii) obtaining a pseudo-transverse cross-section image of the blood vessel; and (iii) processing the images from steps (i) and (ii) to construct a morphometric model of the blood vessel.
US08246667B2	Equipment for treating wounds and method for the biochemical activation of healing This invention concerns a system for dermatological treatment including an energy source suitable for biochemically activating healing and including at least one means of interaction between the energy source and the patient. The means of interaction is composed of a continuous adhesive support suitable for placement close to the area to be treated, the support having a means of identification and interacting without contact with a sensor allowing the energy source to function only when the distance between the sensor and the means of identification is less than a threshold value. The invention also concerns such a continuous adhesive support and a method of dermatological treatment.
US08246666B2	Phototherapy garment A phototherapy garment including a form-fitting bodysuit having a shell made from a stretchable, washable material covering the arms, legs, and torso which provides phototherapeutic light via a layer of cross-woven side-glow optical fibers. The bodysuit has an adjustable fastening system along the arms, legs, and torso to allow for variable sizing and a snug fit. Light is transmitted into the fibers via a waterproof base unit that is detachably attached to a housing dock on the side of the bodysuit. The LEDs emit high-intensity light of a wavelength or wavelengths suitable for treatment of various medical conditions. Each wavelength is transmitted separately into a respective one of a series of cross-woven optical fibers. Optionally, a reflective liner within the bodysuit may redirect irradiation from the fibers back toward the skin so no energy is wasted. Another embodiment includes a transparent liner. The base unit includes a power supply that may includes a rechargeable battery. The suit may also include biofeedback and data logging systems.
US08246664B2	Multiple bone fusion plate A plate for securing bones together includes an elongate spine having at least one groove spanning along a length of the spine parallel to a central axis of the spine, and a plurality of arms extending laterally from the spine, the plurality of arms comprising at least one arm on a first side of the spine and at least one arm on a second side of the spine.
US08246660B2	Bone plate and method for using bone plate Disclosed is an apparatus placed by an implantation tool for spacing a first section of a divided lamina apart from a second section of the divided lamina in connection with a laminoplasty procedure, including an apparatus placed with an implantation tool and fastened in place by a locking plate that is held in place by a locking plate fastener driven into the tool receiving hole in the apparatus.
US08246658B2	Spinal connector assembly A spinal connector assembly includes a connector body having a first receiver portion, a second receiver portion, and a threaded portion extending axially from the second receiver portion. A washer member coupled with the connector may rotate about the rotational axis and translate along the rotational axis. A lock member threadingly engages the threaded portion of the connector body to exert an axial force onto a second implant member to compress the second implant member within a channel in the washer member which in turn displaces the washer member into compressed engagement with a first implant member to thereby lock the washer member and the second implant member at a select angular orientation relative to the connector body, and the axial force also compresses the first implant member into clamped engagement within the first passage of the connector body.
US08246657B1	Spinal cross connector The present application describes a spinal cross-connector and related methods for augmenting and stiffening spinal fixation constructs. The cross connector may include multiple rod-stabilization members that simultaneously engage respective rods of a fixation construct. Simultaneous engagement by the rod-stabilization members may be effectuated by a single locking step.
US08246656B2	Crossover spinous process implant A device intended for the treatment of spinal stenosis. This device is an inter-spinous spacer that is introduced through a single posterior incision. It uses a single piece insertion technique with a unilateral approach. The surgeon does not need to access the opposite side of the spinous process. It allows the user infinite adjustability in distraction height with a single locking mechanism.
US08246652B2	Suture with a pointed end and an anchor end and with equally spaced yieldable tissue grasping barbs located at successive axial locations A tissue connector has a first pointed end, an anchor end, a body with a periphery and a plurality of barbs projecting from said periphery of said body. The plurality of barbs are yieldable in one direction, which direction is the direction of motion of the first pointed end through tissue, and are rigid in an opposite direction, which is in the direction of the anchor end. At axial locations of said body, said barbs are about equally located about the periphery of said body. At axial locations on a cylindrical periphery of the body barbs are locate at about 120 degree spacings. The barbs are conically shaped.
US08246649B2	Electrostatic vascular filters An intravascular filter is constructed to electrostatically capture and retain particles of a targeted type (for example fat or methacrylate emboli), even if those particles are physically small enough to slip through the filter in the absence of electrostatic attraction. Specific types of targeted particles are thereby captured and retained with improved efficiency, while permitting free flow of non-targeted particles. This improvement permits intravascular filters to be constructed with low-resistance, widely spaced filter elements. Accordingly, more targeted particles are captured, less thrombosis occurs, less pressure drop occurs across the filter, and perfusion or blood collection in downstream areas is maintained.
US08246647B2	Nostril dilator An internal nasal prosthesis of unitary construction. The prosthesis has three distinct segments, an arched medial segment and two lateral appendages on each end of the medial segment. Each appendage of this prosthesis is the mirror image of the other and is inclined at a compound angle, relative to said arched medial segment, so that each of said appendage is inclined, at an angle, into the plane of the page, of at least about 30 degrees, and at an angle, relative to the horizontal plane of the medial section, of about 90 degrees.
US08246638B2	Axial needle and suture delivery device and method A needle delivery device that has particular application for providing needles for minimally invasive spinal surgical procedures. The device includes an elongated pincher having opposing rails that is slidable within a channel defined in an extended base portion. Widened end portions of the rails hold the needle and push it out of an end of the device where it is released. The pincher is then retracted to a location where the end portions can pick up a next needle to be delivered.
US08246632B2	Device for endoscopic removal of stones or concrements from a bile and pancreatic duct or foreign bodies and polyps subsequent to polypectomy in the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract A device (1) for endoscopic removal of stones or concrements from a bile and pancreatic duct or foreign bodies and polyps subsequent to polypectomy in the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract comprises a cable (9) guided in a tube (2) and further comprises, on its proximal end, an actuation element (3) for an axial displacement of the cable (9) within the tube (2). The cable (9) receives, on its distal end, a collecting basket (16) formed by at least four elastic basket wires (17), said basket wires (17) being bundled at one end on the cable (9) and at another end on a guide element (18). The basket wires (17) bear against the end of the tube (2) such that an axial displacement of the cable (9) leads to a loop-like contraction or expansion of the collecting basket (16) and to a twisting of the collecting basket (16) about its longitudinal axis. The tube (2) is configured as a double-lumen tube, the cable (9) being arranged in a first lumen (8) and a guide wire (5) being arranged in a second lumen (19), and a distal end of the guide wire (5) extending axially beyond the tube (2) is not guided relative to the collecting basket (16).
US08246630B2	Apparatus and method for injecting fluent material at a distracted tissue site A system and method is provided for distracting opposite surfaces from the interior of a bone, such as a vertebral body. A working channel cannula provides a working channel through which an inserter and an injection cannula can simultaneously pass. The inserter transports a plurality of wafers into the interior of the bone to form a load-bearing stack bearing against the opposite surfaces. The injection cannula is used to inject a fluent material into and/or around the stack. In certain embodiments, the fluent material is a load-bearing or hardenable material, such as bone cement. In other embodiments, the fluent material can be a BMP, HAP, or other osteo-inductive, osteo-conductive, or pharmaceutical compositions. A syringe containing the fluent material is engaged to the injection cannula and is operable to inject the fluent material into the vertebral body under controlled pressure.
US08246629B2	Feeding device for a monomer A delivery device for a monomer may include an elongate container designed to enclose one or more ampoules containing the monomer. The elongate container may include: a connection at a first end of the elongate container for delivering the monomer to a mixing device, pre-filled with a polymer, for preparation of bone cement composition under vacuum; a cap at a second end of the elongate container; at least one air inlet aperture in a wall of the elongate container; and a manually actuatable element for opening the one or more ampoules. The manually actuatable element may include: a knob; a draw rod; and one or more spikes. The knob may be in threaded engagement with the draw rod. An end of the draw rod may extend past the one or more ampoules. Turning the knob may cause the one or more spikes to penetrate the one or more ampoules.
US08246627B2	Cement delivery device for introducing cement into tissue, the device having a cavity creator A cavity creator including a tube with a lumen. A tip able to penetrate bone extends forward from the distal end of the tube. A blade is moveably attached to the outer tube proximal to the tip so as to move between retracted and extended states. The tube has a discharge port adjacent the blade. The tip is used to position the upper tube in bone. The blade is extended to form a cavity in the bone. Once the cavity is created filler material can be introduced into the cavity by flowing the material through the tube lumen.
US08246626B2	Method for performing bone cutting A guide for cutting a bone comprising an anterior portion and a distal portion orientated at about a right angle to the anterior portion. The distal portion includes a guiding side, a distal surface at the guiding side, a box-cut shaped opening defined by the guiding side, a plurality of first cutting surfaces disposed at the guiding side at an acute angle relative to the distal surface of the guiding side operable to guide a cutting device to the bone to form chamfer cuts in the bone, and a second cutting surface disposed at the guiding side at least about a right angle to the distal surface operable to guide a cutting device to the bone to form a posterior cut in the bone.
US08246624B2	Spinal rod insertion tool and method Embodiments described herein provide systems and methods for inserting a spinal stabilization rod. A rod insertion tool can include a body defining a passage, a pivot rod disposed in the passage and a rod retaining member. Movement of the pivot rod can cause the rod retaining member to rotate and consequently the spinal stabilization rod to rotate. The rod insertion tool can be sized to fit through channels in sleeves used during implantation of a spinal stabilization system.
US08246623B2	Progressive reduction instrument for reduction of a vertebral rod and method of use An instrument and method for reducing a vertebral rod into an anchor attached to a vertebral member. The instrument may include a gripper and an attached reduction member that includes a handle and shaft. The gripper is configured to attach to an anchor and may include an asymmetrical shape to accommodate the anatomy of a patient and a funneled capturing space to facilitate reduction of the vertebral rod. The reduction member may be configured to apply a reduction force to the vertebral rod at the various axial and lateral medial positions within the capturing space. The reduction member may also provide for course and fine movement of the shaft during the movement of the vertebral rod.
US08246621B2	Reamer guide for revision procedure An instrument kit is provided for reaming bone around a head of a bone, the bone including an implanted epiphysis component. The instrument kit includes a reaming guide and a reamer. The reaming guide is couplable to the epiphysis component and has a first reamer support feature and a second reamer support feature. The reamer is couplable to one of the first reamer support feature and the second support feature to ream bone around the epiphysis component.
US08246616B2	Electrosurgical system An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator including at least one source of radio frequency (RF) power, and a plurality of output connections, only one of the output connections at any one time being active in that it is able to receive radio frequency power from the source. The generator includes selection means adapted to change the active output connection, and a controller adapted to control the supply of radio frequency power from the source to the active output connection. The system also includes a plurality of electrosurgical assemblies, each including an electrosurgical instrument and a cable connecting the electrosurgical instrument to one of the output connections. The electrosurgical assemblies each include a handswitch adapted to send a signal to the selection means to change the active output connection. The selection means is such that a signal sent from the handswitch of the active instrument can cause the selection means to change the active output connection to a different output connection, but a signal sent from the handswitch of an instrument other than the active instrument does not immediately cause the selection means to change the active output connection to a different output connection.
US08246615B2	Tissue impedance measurement using a secondary frequency A microwave ablation system includes a generator including a first energy source, a second energy source and a diplexer, the diplexer multiplexes a first energy from the first energy source and a second energy from the second energy source. The system also includes a cable including a center conductor and an outer sheath where the multiplexed energy is transmitted through the center conductor. In addition an antenna is provided that is operable to receive the multiplexed energy from the center conductor and to deliver the multiplexed energy to a region of tissue. The outer sheath acts as a return path of the second energy to the second energy source. A sensor is also provided that measures at least one parameter of the second energy generated by the second energy source and the second energy returned from the region of tissue.
US08246614B2	High-strength microwave antenna coupling Microwave antenna assemblies incorporating a high-strength antenna coupler are described herein. The microwave antenna has a radiating portion connected by a feedline to a power generating source, e.g., a generator. Proximal and distal radiating portions of the antenna assembly are separated by a microwave antenna coupler. In embodiments, the described antenna coupler includes a dielectric member and at least one discrete coupling member. The coupling member isolates coupling forces, such as tension and torque, from the dielectric member, which may prevent cracking and reduce the incidence of mechanical failure of the dielectric. The coupling member may be formed from high strength materials, such as stainless steel, allowing greater coupling forces to be achieved when compared to couplers using only dielectric materials. The coupling member may additionally include reinforcing members which extend into the dielectric member for increased strength.
US08246612B2	Scanning laser system for the treatment of tissue The disclosed technology can be embodied within optical heads or other optical systems adapted for providing a selected dermatologic treatment (e.g., temporary hair growth management). This technology uses a scanner to mechanically change an orientation of an optical element, such as a light pipe, to facilitate the conveyance of light energy to multiple target/treatment locations on a patient's skin.
US08246609B2	Intracorneal inlay, system, and method Method and system for modifying a refractive profile associated with an eye having a recipient cornea. The method includes obtaining a corneal tissue inlay from a donor cornea, forming a recipient bed in the recipient cornea, and positioning the corneal tissue inlay into the recipient bed to correct the refractive profile of the eye with the refractive profile of the corneal tissue. The system includes a laser assembly outputting a pulsed laser beam, and a controller coupled to the laser assembly. The controller directs the laser assembly to incise a corneal tissue inlay from a donor cornea, form a recipient bed in the recipient cornea having a contour matching the contour of the inlay, register the inlay with the recipient bed, determine a position of the inlay, and determine a position change for the inlay based on the position of the inlay to align the refractive profile of the inlay with the refractive profile of the eye.
US08246608B2	Medical manipulator system A medical manipulator system includes a manipulator, an operating unit for entering operation commands, motors for actuating a working unit, and a controller for energizing the motors based on operation commands supplied from the operating unit. When an activation resetting switch and a resetting switch are operated according to a predetermined procedure, the controller performs a resetting process to return the motors to an origin. The controller is capable of controlling three manipulators. The activation resetting switch is shared by the three manipulators, and there are three resetting switches corresponding to the three manipulators.
US08246607B2	System for treating a wound with suction and method of detecting loss of suction A system for applying suction to a wound uses a reference airflow for monitoring system operation. A reference airflow (or “controlled leak”) to the suction source is provided when the system is in operation, such that deviation from the reference airflow can be monitored as an indication of a change in operation, such as a leak in the seal of the wound cover, a blockage of airflow from crimping of the suction conduit or overfill of the waste collector, or an inadvertent turn off or disconnect from the suction source.
US08246602B2	Catheters with tracking elements and permeable membranes Devices, systems and methods for delivering one or more drugs to one or more internal body locations (such as the cerebrospinal fluid) are disclosed. In various aspects, the systems and methods may involve catheters having infusion sections with permeable membranes and one or more tracking elements that may be used to place the infusions sections on the catheters in selected locations such as the spinal region.
US08246601B2	Methods for intravascular engraftment in heart The invention relates to a method of engrafting donor cells into injured myocardium. The method includes delivering donor cells to a delivery site adjacent to and downstream of a chronic total occlusion and treating the chronic total occlusion. The delivery device may be a catheter with a wireguide that may be provided by a retrograde approach via an un-occluded artery or antegrade approach through the chronic total occlusion. The invention also relates to a method of treating injured myocardium and cell compositions for treatment of injured myocardium.
US08246599B2	Syringe guard with selected needle configurations A device for expelling a fluid through a needle mounted on a hub includes an elongated luer member that has a distal portion dimensioned to engage the needle hub to provide fluid communication between the luer member and the needle. An adapter anchors the luer member within the device. Slidingly mounted on the adapter is a cylindrical-shaped inverted plunger that is movable thereon between an advanced position and a withdrawn position. A needle guard is biased by a biasing member to extend distally from the luer member when the plunger is in the advanced position. The guard is selectively engageable with the plunger to be retracted to expose the distal portion of the luer member for fluid engagement with the needle hub when the plunger is moved to the withdrawn position.
US08246595B2	Absorbent article with leak barriers An absorbent article having a front region, a back region and a crotch region there between, said article has substantially longitudinally extending leak barriers, each of said leak barriers having a free laterally inward elasticized side and a laterally outward side, the elasticized side of the leak barrier being raised from the inner cover of the absorbent article. The crotch region along a length of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 5 cm and more preferably at least 10 cm, in longitudinal direction is free from raised leak barriers, while raised leak barriers are present in the front and/or back regions of the article.
US08246593B2	Sanitary napkin for dynamic body fit An absorbent article providing improved body fit. The absorbent article includes an extensible fluid permeable facing layer and a first absorbent layer joined to the facing layer. The first absorbent layer includes zones of extensibility. Each zone of extensibility is a region of the first absorbent layer of relatively higher extensibility than regions of first absorbent layer adjacent to the zone of extensibility. A liquid impermeable backsheet is joined to the facing layer at the periphery. The liquid impermeable backsheet has a garment facing surface. A fastening means is disposed on at least a portion of the garment facing surface of the liquid impermeable backsheet. The fastening means defines attachment zones. At least a portion of the first absorbent layer is decoupled from the attachment zones of the fluid impermeable backsheet.
US08246592B2	Vacuum therapy and cleansing dressing for wounds Wound treatment apparatuses comprising a vacuum source and a bandage (e.g., a wound-care bandage) configured to be coupled (and/or coupled) to the vacuum source. Some embodiments of the bandage including a wound dressing member configured to be placed in contact with a wound surface, and a suction port associated with the wound dressing member and/or configured to be connected to the vacuum source. Some embodiments of the member including a plurality of spacers configured to contact the wound surface to define suction space between the member and the wound surface. Some embodiments of the member including holes configured to communicate with the suction space, and/or a plurality of passageways between the suction port and the holes.
US08246584B2	Injection systems An intraosseous injection device includes a tool having a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a solution dispensing opening. The distal portion has one or more cutting surfaces. The tool can be coupled with a protective carrier. The tool can be rotatably coupled to a tool actuation mechanism. A housing has a distal end and a proximal end. The housing releasably receives a solution cartridge containing a solution. A solution dispensing mechanism dispenses solution from the solution cartridge. A gripping member grips a proximal portion of the tool. A rotation device rotates the gripping member and thereby rotates the tool about an axis. The proximal portion of the tool connects directly to the solution cartridge such that solution from the cartridge can be delivered through the solution dispensing opening. The tool is configured to rotate relative to the solution cartridge.
US08246575B2	Flexible hollow spine with locking feature and manipulation structure An apparatus is disclosed for introducing surgical instruments into a body cavity. The apparatus includes a series of interconnected segments configured to pivot relative to one another allowing an end effector to be steered into position. The apparatus is also capable of achieving a rigidized state wherein the interconnected segments are in high frictional contact with one another providing a stable platform for the manipulation of tissue. Tensile elements are attached to the end effector and a control member such that an operator may use the same control member to both rigidize the instrument and also to thereafter control the end effector.
US08246572B2	Bone graft applicator Disclosed herein is a bone graft applicator assembly including a specially designed applicator, attached to a reservoir of bone graft material, such that the graft material can be moved into the delivery portion while the tip of the delivery portion is in place. The instantly disclosed device allows for the collapse of the delivery tip so that the tip can be placed between vertebras or alternatively within any bony structure or implant where the placement of bone graft material would be desirable, and then expanded to allow the bone graft material to be placed between the vertebras or the like while maintaining the geometry of the space into which the bone graft material is being placed.
US08246570B2	Device for cell transplantation The present invention provides a cell transplantation device which is capable of inserting cells for transplantation into a cell-deficient site without application of direct external force to the cells. The present invention discloses a cell transplantation device provided with a plate-type carrier with at least one pass-through hole formed on its side surface, a linear member to be threaded through the pass-through hole, and a pusher member which engages with the linear member that comes out from each exit of the pass-through holes.
US08246566B2	Total fluid loss control system A system or method controls total fluid loss (TFL) in a patient undergoing hemofiltration therapy administered through an extracorporeal circuit by frequently calculating and storing a retrievable value representing TFL. At session start or restart, the value is read to determine whether TFL is out of tolerance, and if so, fluid balance is restored before administering a prescribed therapy. The TFL value is calculated during therapy by measuring fluid added to the circuit and fluid removed from the circuit, and the result is stored as an updated value. If TFL drifts out of tolerance fluid flow rates may be temporarily changed until a desired fluid balance is restored. The system may include a microprocessor based advanced controller receiving the fluid measurements as feedback for regulating substitution fluid and filtrate flow rates, and updating the TFL, value in non-volatile memory.
US08246565B2	Device for passively removing a target component from blood or lymph of a vertebrate subject Devices, systems, and methods are described herein for controlling or modulating the levels of one or more target components in the blood and/or lymph of a vertebrate subject. Devices and systems are provided that include a body defining at least one lumen configured for fluid flow; at least one controllable flow barrier to fluid flow into the at least one lumen; at least one first reservoir disposed within the body and configured to include one or more bifunctional tags, wherein the one or more bifunctional tags are configured to selectively bind to one or more target components in one or more of blood fluid or lymph fluid of a vertebrate subject; at least one treatment region disposed within the at least one lumen; and at least one second reservoir disposed in the at least one treatment region and configured to include one or more reactive components, wherein the one or more reactive components are configured to sequester the one or more bifunctional tags when bound to the one or more target components.
US08246560B2	Hand brace for immobilizing and adjustably positioning one or more digits The invention relates to a hand brace for immobilizing and adjustably positioning one or more digits of the hand, and more specifically, to a brace having a flexible sheet member for application to a wrist and hand, at least one adjustable stabilizing member extending the length of the sheet member that is sufficiently rigid to maintain joints at a desired angle of flexion, a semi-rigid member positioned against the flexible sheet member for protecting and supporting joints of the hand and defining an opening for relieving pressure on a joint, and straps for adjustably securing the invention to the hand. Advantageously the invention immobilizes the hand such that the fourth and fifth metacarpophalangeal joints of the hand are positioned at a desired angle of flexion and fourth and fifth interphalangeal joints of the hand are positioned at a desired angle of extension.
US08246557B2	Health mat and health bed with the health mat A health mat (2) and a health bed (10) with the health mat (2) are provided. The health mat (2) includes a fixed bar unit (3), a movable bar unit (4) that can move relatively to the fixed bar unit (3), and a mat body unit (5) that is on the movable bar unit (4) and can move with it. The reciprocation of the movable bar unit (4) makes the mat body unit (5) move and makes the mat body unit (5) do reciprocative movement.
US08246555B2	Method and system for monitoring sport related fitness by estimating muscle power and joint force of limbs The present invention relates to a method and system for monitoring sport related fitness by estimating muscle power and joint force of limbs, in which the system comprises a sensing module and a force/track detection module, wherein sensor values from the sensing module are fed to the force/track detection module to be used as base for estimating feature parameters and classifying a motion series relating to muscle power and joint force of limbs so as to obtain skill-related fitness parameters corresponding to the sensing of the sensor module.
US08246553B2	Muscle hardness meter A muscle hardness meter according to the present invention, which measures the hardness of muscle tissue of a living organism, includes: an auxiliary part which touches a periphery of a section of the living organism to be measure so as to apply pressure to the periphery; a touching part which touches the section to be measured so as to apply pressure to the section to be measured; a first pressure sensor which measures pressures that the touching part and the auxiliary part sustain, respectively, from the section to be measured and the periphery, and outputs a first measurement result; a second pressure sensor which measures a pressure that the touching part sustains from the section to be measure, and outputs a second measurement result; a notification part which notifies the second measurement result; and a control part which determines whether or not the first measurement result teaches a reference pressure value input in advance and notifies the second measurement result to the notification part at a time when it is determined that the first measurement result reaches the reference value.
US08246552B2	Closed specimen collection system A closed specimen collection system for blood samples includes a collection tube that has a shaped nozzle adapted to fit sealably into a port connected to a centrally inserted venal catheter. A protective cover for the nozzle is attached to the collection tube and has an internal, female thread that mates to a male thread on the port. A specimen container has a hollow body, a front end and a back end. The front end has an aperture sized and shaped to attach to the collection tube. The aperture is sealable after removal of the collection tube. A piston fits closely within the hollow body and is attached to an actuating rod. When the port is connected to the collection tube, the collection tube is connected to the specimen container and the actuating rod is pulled toward the back end, blood will flow into the container in a sterile condition.
US08246550B2	Comprehensive integrated testing protocol for infant lung function A Comprehensive Integrated Testing Protocol (CITP) incorporates precise measurements of the dynamic and the static lung volumes and capacities at V30 for routine infant lung function testing. The static functional residual capacity (sFRC) in infants is measured after a short hyperventilation induces a post-hyperventilation apnea (PHA) that abolishes the infant's breathing strategies and creates a reliable volume landmark. A measurement of the sFRC is then obtained by inert gas washout; e.g., by measuring the volume of nitrogen expired after end-passive expiratory switching of the inspired gas from room air to 100% oxygen during the PHA. A true measurement of the total lung capacity (TLC) is obtained from the sum of (1) the passively exhaled gas volume from a Pao plateau of 30 cm H2O through a pneumotachometer (PNT) by integrating the flow signal to produce volume, which is the inspiratory capacity (IC), and (2) the sFRC. From intrasubject TLC and residual volume (RV), the difference is a reliable estimate of the slow vital capacity (SVC). Similar measurements may be obtained with a fastened squeeze jacket for comparison. Actual airway opening pressure (aPao) is measured during a 0.20 s airway occlusion after halting the inflating airflow and prior to activating the jacket inflation. An open mouth is maintained during forced expiration in order to generate an oronasal instead of a forced expiration.
US08246544B2	Ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus There is provided a first storage for storing digital reception beam data converted from a reception beam formed from an ultrasonic received signal; a first control component for controlling reading and writing of data from/in the first storage; a filter coefficient calculation portion for calculating a filter coefficient based on information on the reception beam, the information including a positional relationship between the reception beam and a transmission beam; and a first spatial filter operation portion for subjecting each of a plurality of the reception beam data including data of beams received in parallel from a single transmission beam to filtering processing for reducing a difference in image quality between adjacent beams based on the filter coefficient. Image data output from the first spatial filter operation portion are converted into scanning of a display monitor so as to display an image on the display monitor.
US08246539B2	Pericardium management method for intra-pericardial surgical procedures A method for managing the pericardium during intra-pericardial procedures such as the delivery of cardiac support devices. One embodiment of the method includes making an incision through the pericardium to provide access to the pericardial space, and inserting a plurality of strips of lubricious material into and through the incision. The strips of material are spaced around the edges of the incision to form a tubular barrier against the pericardium. End portions of the strips of material in the pericardial space are expanded away from the body to form a lip that lines the inside of the pericardium around the incision.
US08246537B2	Capsular endoscope According to the present invention, a capsular endoscope having at least an image pickup optical system, an illumination unit, an image pickup portion, and a circuit board comprises a marker shooting unit that indwells a marker member in a body cavity. Consequently, a predetermined marker is indwelled in a desired region such as a lesion discovered using the capsular endoscope so that the region can be readily rediscovered during reexamination.
US08246533B2	Implant system with resonant-driven actuator A system for securing an implantable apparatus to a mammal includes a mount including a base portion having a plurality of holes dimensioned to receive rotationally-driven fasteners, each fastener comprising a helical portion having a tip configured for tissue penetration, the mount configured to secure the implantable apparatus relative to tissue of the mammal upon driving the fasteners into the tissue. The system further includes a fastening tool configured to rotationally drive the helical portion of the fasteners into the tissue. The mount may be secured to the fascia covering the sternum via a subcutaneous securement method, or it may be attached to the intra-abdominal wall, behind the sternum, or it may be attached to the sternum directly via bone screws or the like.
US08246532B2	Bone conductive devices for improving hearing The present invention relates to implantable medical devices for improving sound perception by subjects with conductive or mixed conductive/sensorineural hearing loss. In particular, the present invention provides methods and devices for vibrating the skull of a hearing impaired subject.
US08246523B2	Aquatic exercise device An aquatic exercise device (100) includes a cuff strap (102) for fastening a plurality of fins (106) to a user's leg. The cuff strap (102) is configured to position the plurality of fins (102) to extend outwardly form an interior of the cuff strap (102) when the cuff strap (102) is fastened to an ankle area of the user's leg. The plurality of fins (106) provide resistance in a direction opposite to the direction of motion of the user's foot when the aquatic exercise device (100) is moved through water.
US08246521B2	Plyometric jumping exercise game apparatus and method of use The present invention is a plyometric jumping exercise game apparatus and method of use. The apparatus is adapted to provide a challenging game for a participant that causes the participant to jump from a first location to a second location in response to predetermined signals. The apparatus provides for timed score keeping and may be used by a single individual or by groups of individuals in competitive play. While use of the apparatus is entertaining for the participant, it also improves the participant's jumping ability, speed, reaction time, and physical endurance.
US08246516B2	Method for operating a drive train A method of operating a drive train of a motor vehicle that has at least an automatic transmission and a drive unit. A starting rotational speed is determined for starting the motor vehicle, and a starting process is initiated with the determined starting rotational speed by engaging a starting element, in particular a starting clutch. The starting rotational speed may be individually set by a driver in such a way that, when the automatic transmission is in the neutral position, the engine speed of the drive unit may be determined by the driver by actuating the accelerator pedal, and that once the automatic transmission is shifted from the neutral position to a either a forward gear or a reverse gear, the engine speed of the drive unit, prevailing during the shift of the automatic transmission, is used as the starting rotational speed.
US08246515B2	Method for manually shifting an automatic transmission through the accelerator pedal A method for generating manual shift request for controlling the automatic transmission of an automotive vehicle comprises:generating an up shift request (24) when the movement of the accelerator pedal of the vehicle matches a predefined pattern for requesting an up shift (22), andgenerating a down shift request (28) when the movement of the accelerator pedal of the vehicle matches a predefined pattern for requesting a down shift (26).
US08246510B2	Vehicle drive force control apparatus A vehicle drive force control apparatus for controlling a drive force of a vehicle including: a main drive power source for driving main drive wheels through a coupling device and a transmission, an electric generator operated by a drive force generated by the main drive power source, and an electric motor which is driven by electric power generated by the electric generator, to generate a drive torque that can be transmitted to auxiliary drive wheels. The vehicle drive force control apparatus controls the coupling device and transmission to reduce an engaging force of the coupling device and shift up the transmission during driving of the auxiliary drive wheels, so that the operating speed of the main drive power source is raised according to a load of the coupling device, while the electric power generated by the electric generator is increased, permitting an increase of the drive torque of the auxiliary drive wheels and stable 4-wheel-drive control.
US08246509B2	Method for operating a drive train A method for operating a drive train of a motor vehicle. The drive train comprising a hybrid drive with an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, a transmission arranged between the hybrid drive and a drive output, and a clutch arranged between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. The internal combustion engine is started by engaging the clutch only when the electric motor is providing drive power. In this situation when shifting gears in the transmission with interruption of the traction force, immediately after the gear change and during a load build-up phase of the shift operation, the internal combustion engine is started by the electric motor without traction force interruption. The clutch is controlled to partially engage to start the combustion engine and then it is completely disengaged before reaching a synchronous speed between the combustion engine and the electric motor.
US08246502B2	Continuous variable transmission assembly A variable ratio drive assembly (10) including: a planetary gear device (13) having an input shaft (15), an output shaft (17), with the shafts having a common rotational axis (21), an input gear (16) attached to the input shaft, an output gear (18) attached to the output shaft, a carriage (20) mounted for rotation about said axis, at least one planetary gear (19) meshed with the input gear and output gear, the planetary gear being rotatably mounted in the carriage, a ring gear (23) fixed to the carriage so as to be rotated about said axis, a pump gear (24) meshingly engaged with the ring gear, a pump device (51) drivingly connected to the pump gear and restriction means to control the flow so that said pump device (51) applies a torque to said pump gear to control rotation of said ring gear and therefore rotation of said output shaft.
US08246500B2	Vehicle hybrid driving apparatus A vehicle hybrid driving apparatus that has an engine and an electric motor as drive power sources includes: a hydraulic pressure generation mechanism that generates hydraulic pressure using drive force from the engine; and a planetary gear ratio shift device that has three rotating elements: a first rotating element, a second rotating element, and a third rotating element. The first rotating element is linked to the electric motor so that power transmission therebetween is possible, and is also linked to the engine via a clutch so that power transmission therebetween is possible. The second rotating element is selectively linked to a stationary member via a brake. The third rotating element is linked to an output shaft so that power transmission therebetween is possible. The brake connects the second rotating element and the stationary member when the hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure generation mechanism is not supplied.
US08246497B1	Throwing object A throwing object that includes a multi-sided member that includes a top and a peripheral sidewall integral with the top. The top and peripheral sidewall together form a cap-shaped member that is hollow with the peripheral sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface is formed as a concave surface shaped for receiving the finger or fingers of the user with the inner surface including a reinforcing rib that is integral with the sidewall.
US08246495B2	Bat conditioning device and method A bat conditioning device for breaking in or seasoning softball or baseball bats. A preferred conditioning device includes a handle having a first end and a second end, a grip attached to the first end of the handle, and a head attached to the second end of the handle having an impact response that mimics that of a regulation softball. In the preferred form, the head is a regulation softball. The bat conditioning device is of a length that allows softball bats to be broken-in by striking a bat held in one hand of a user, with the conditioning device being held in the other hand.
US08246489B2	Golf club head A head 2 is provided with a face 4, a crown 6, and a sole 8. The head 2 is hollow. At least a part of an inner surface of the head 2 is a metal inner surface Kn. At least one rib 20 made of a metal is provided on the metal inner surface Kn. The at least one rib 20 is a partial weld rib obtained by carrying out partial welding between the rib 20 and the metal inner surface Kn. A welded portion and an unwelded portion coexist in a longitudinal direction of the partial weld rib 20 between the metal inner surface Kn and the partial weld rib 20. Preferably, the partial welding is carried out between a side surface 24 of the partial weld rib 20 and the metal inner surface Kn. Preferably, a weld bead Bd is present on a place on which the partial welding is carried out.
US08246486B2	Golf club head with improved mass distribution A golf club head having a striking wall having a front surface, and a rear surface, a top surface, and a sole portion extending rearwardly from the rear surface, the sole portion having a forward end, a rearward end, an upper surface and a lower surface. The intersection of the upper surface and the rear surface defines an interior sole line. The intersection of the upper surface and the rearward end defines a trailing edge. A region on the upper surface includes variation of the height of the trailing edge or exterior sole line relative to the height of the interior sole.
US08246473B2	Universal joint with improved ball lubrication A universal joint with improved ball lubrication, the improvement wherein each yoke has a ball head at an inward end of the yoke, the centering plate has a tube in which the ball heads of the yokes are slideably received to establish a slideable connection between the ends of the yokes and the centering plate, and the lubricant is supplied from the second passageway to an interior of the tube. A shield substantially encloses the joint in combination with the tractor master shield and has lubrication fitting access holes.
US08246472B2	Gaming system having multiple gaming devices that share a multi-outcome display A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
US08246469B2	Storage medium storing program, apparatus, communication system and control method A communication game system includes a first computer and at least one second computer. When an operational designation has been performed, the second computer transmits to the first request a request for permission to perform an action corresponding to the operation. Until a conclusion to the request is received, the second computer produces an image in which a character performs a first act of the action. The first computer determines whether the action is permitted and transmits its conclusion to the second computer. When receiving the conclusion before the end of the first act, the second computer produces an image in which the player character performs a second act according to the conclusion. On the other hand, when the conclusion is received after the end of the first act, the second computer produces, at the end of the first act, an image in which the player character performs a third act until the reception of the conclusion.
US08246468B2	Presenting and controlling wagering game information A network browser and wagering game toolbar (“toolbar”) are described herein. The network browser has a main display area that can display content. The toolbar can be in, or a part of, the network browser. The network browser and the toolbar can receive and display content. Specifically, the toolbar can receive and display wagering game content from a wagering game network as the main display area can receive and display content originating outside the wagering game network. In some embodiments, the toolbar can present content originating from one or more wagering game player accounts that provide audience participation in, or related to, wagering game activity presented on the toolbar.
US08246460B2	Game system Provided is a game system executing a game by performing communication between a plurality of hand-held game apparatuses, each having a display section for displaying an image and an operation section, and a stationary game apparatus. In each of the plurality of hand-held game apparatuses, a plurality of directional signs indicative of operations performed by a player using the operation section is displayed on the display section. Operation data indicative of a content of the operation performed by using the operation section is transmitted to the stationary game apparatus. The stationary game apparatus receives the operation data transmitted from each of the plurality of hand-held game apparatuses. The stationary game apparatus obtains, from sound data storage means storing therein a plurality of pieces of sound data, sound data corresponding to the operation data, and at the same time, outputs a sound based on each piece of the obtained sound data.
US08246458B2	Game apparatus and recording medium recording game program As an example, a value obtained by adding the magnitudes of a plurality of angular velocities around respective axes indicated by angular velocity data obtained from an input device including gyroscopic sensors, is used to calculate a rotation parameter indicating a rotation amount. A predetermined object which is rotated, depending on the rotation amount corresponding to the rotation parameter, is displayed on a display device. As another example, when it is determined, based on the angular velocity data, that the attitude of the input device is stable, a stability flag which indicates that the attitude of the input device has been at least once stable is set and updated to ON. When there is an input device whose stability flag is OFF, the aforementioned determination is performed and a screen including a result of the determination is displayed on a display device.
US08246457B2	Storage medium having game program stored thereon and game apparatus In an acceleration value obtaining step (S2), an acceleration value which changes in accordance with a state of the input device is sequentially obtained as the input value. In an increase/decrease direction inversion detection step (S3, S17), it is detected that an acceleration value increase/decrease direction has inverted. In an acceleration value difference calculation step (S41 through S44), when the acceleration value increase/decrease direction has inverted, a difference between at least two acceleration values obtained immediately before the inversion is calculated. In a game processing step (S12 through S15), when the calculated difference is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, first game processing is executed, and when the calculated difference is smaller than the predetermined value, second game processing different from the first game processing is executed.
US08246456B2	Wagering game machine with virtual input device A computerized wagering game system includes a gaming module comprising gaming code which is operable to present a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered, and a virtual input device. The virtual input device is operable to receive input from a user by detecting a position of a user input object such as a finger.
US08246450B2	Method for distributing large payouts with minimal interruption of a gaming session Apparatus and methods for administering payouts in gaming machines are disclosed. More particularly, improved techniques for distributing large payouts with minimal interruption of a gaming session at a gaming apparatus are disclosed.
US08246449B2	Gaming device having a selectively accessible bonus scheme A gaming device having a bonus scheme, wherein the player may choose when to play a bonus scheme, so long as the player is qualified to do so. The method of qualifying the player to enter the bonus round connects or links the base game operation of the gaming device with the bonus scheme. The reels of the base game contain symbols which alone or in combination with other symbols yield one or more bonus awards to a player. The bonus awards are escrowed and displayed a bonus award escrow display. Once the player obtains a single bonus award, the player becomes eligible or qualified to play the bonus round and the player may choose to do so at any time. The player can accumulate bonus awards and use multiple bonus awards at one time.
US08246445B2	Gaming device having a bonus award wheel with a terminator A gaming device including an award wheel having multiple sections including a plurality of award symbols and at least one terminator symbol, a section indicator, a spin initiator and a processor connected to the award wheel and the spin initiator. The player, or the gaming device, spins the award wheel using a spin initiator. The gaming device provides an award to the player, if the section indicator indicates that the player obtained an award. The player continues to spin the award wheel until the section indicator indicates that the player obtained a terminator, which ends the bonus game and the player receives the total accumulated award.
US08246443B2	Gaming system having a plurality of simultaneously played wagering games that may trigger a plurality of free games which may be played simultaneously with the wagering games The present disclosure provides a gaming machine or gaming system having a plurality of games which each can be provided as a wagering game or as a free game. The gaming machine or gaming system enables the player to wager on and simultaneously play the plurality of the games. If any free games are won by the player during the played games, the gaming machine or gaming system enables the player to wager on one or more of the games and to play one or more of the games as a wagering game, while simultaneously playing one or more of the games as a free game.
US08246441B2	Gaming machine having position sensor for mechanical reel modularity A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a display, a reel mounted for rotation relative to the display, the reel having a plurality of display symbols thereon, a plurality of light cups stationary relative to the display for illuminating symbols on the reel in the direction of the display, a sensor to detect the position of the light cups relative to the display and generate position information, and a controller in communication with the sensor operative to receive the position information from the sensor and determine the position of the light cups relative to the reel from the position information.
US08246438B2	Slot machine and method for a game relocating symbols to final symbol positions on a display area A gaming device method and apparatus are disclosed, and are accomplished by a slot machine that provides the result of a spin, or a game, to the player in two steps. In the first step, the machine provides partial, or incomplete information related to the occurring symbols during a game. The player is permitted to place, or change, his or her wager after said partial or incomplete information is made visible to the player. Upon depositing, or increasing a wager, the machine provides the complete result of a spin to the player, and a win determination is made.
US08246435B2	Blackjack variation with reduced play decisions A method, system, and computer readable storage medium to provide a variation of a blackjack game. The player does not make any strategy decisions as the player must play his or her hand out according to a predetermined strategy. The dealer also players his or her hand out according to a predetermined strategy.
US08246434B2	Tournament video poker Each player who is participating in the video poker tournament plays a designated group of video poker hands. The designated group of video poker hands comprises preselected starting hands so that each tournament participant plays the same starting hands. After the group of video poker hands has been completed, the player with the highest score or highest amount of accrued credits is awarded a prize. Besides awarding a prize to the player with the highest score, other lesser prizes could be awarded to other players who have high scores. Prizes could also be awarded to players who achieve a final score of at least a certain level.
US08246429B2	Apparatus and method for cleaning poultry An apparatus (10) for washing eviscerated poultry carcasses (12) has a housing (11), a conveyor (15a) for moving the shackled poultry carcasses through the housing. A guide bar (24) tilts the poultry carcasses (12) from a vertical position for spraying by a first set of nozzles (23). The first set of nozzles (23) delivers a cleaning solution (100) at a sufficient flow rate and line pressure, whereby a portion of the cleaning solution (100) is deflected back out the rear opening (12d) of the poultry carcass (12).
US08246428B2	Device for massaging products A device for treating products, in particular massaging meat products, comprises at least one treatment section with a space for receiving the products. The space comprises a treatment device for treating the products. A discharge device is provided for discharging the products from the space of the treatment section. The discharge device can be brought into an active and an inactive operating state with the aid of an actuating device.
US08246427B2	Device and method for separating surface layers in products of the food industry A method and apparatus to separate a surface layer of a product in the food industry. The apparatus includes a transport device to transport the product from an input region to an output region and a pressure device to press the product against the transport device. A separating device is arranged in the output region to separate the surface layer from the product. The separating device defines a separating gap between the separating device and the transport device. A substantially cylindrical, rotatably controllable deflecting device is arranged in the output region. The deflecting device has a shape varying in the axial direction and/or a circumferential direction. The transport device is guided around the deflecting device to create a variable process gap to separate the surface layer of the product from the product.
US08246426B1	Hog paddle and method of manufacturing the same An animal carcass hair removal machine paddle is provided. The paddle includes a core of alternating layers of woven and non-woven fabrics. The core is pressed together and surrounded by an outer shell pressed onto the core. The layers of fabric are arranged with some shorter than the full length of the core such that one end of the core is thicker than the other end and the layers form a wave-like pattern when the core is pressed. In some embodiments, the weft or warp of the woven fabrics are arranged in special aligned and/or perpendicular arrangements.
US08246425B2	Abrasive wheel comprising a fan-like structure The present invention provides an abrasive wheel that comprises a ring-shaped abrasive surface and an integrally formed central portion. The ring-shaped abrasive surface has an outer peripheral edge and an inner peripheral edge. The integrally formed central portion comprises an attachment portion for attaching the abrasive wheel to a rotation source and a plurality of fan blades for directing air-flow over the ring-shaped abrasive surface. The plurality of fan blades are positioned radially inwardly of the inner peripheral edge of the ring-shaped abrasive surface.
US08246423B2	Thumb-operated detachable liquid polish dispenser for a hand-held surface finishing power tool An elongated liquid polish dispenser which can be longitudinally attached to a hand-held rotary buffer such that a thumb switch to operate the dispenser is placed opposite a trigger on the buffer's handle is described. The dispenser can be firmly attached by a built-in strap to several popular models of professional heavy duty polishers without obscuring vent holes of those models. The thumb switch activates an electric pump which pumps liquid polish through a nozzle and onto a work surface.
US08246422B2	Device for cleaning safety razor blade A device for cleaning a safety razor blade may include a polymer-based mat, the polymer-based mat comprising at least one substantially plane surface; a substantially rigid frame structure fabricated of a material suitable for injection moulding, the substantially rigid frame structure comprising a through-going opening adapted to at least partly house the polymer-based mat; and pair of guiding tracks arranged so that at least part of the polymer-based mat is arranged between the pair of guiding tracks. The pair of guiding tracks and the polymer-based mat may be arranged relative to each other in such a way that the pair of guiding tracks define a maximum allowed penetration depth of blades of the safety razor blade into the polymer-based mat. The polymer-based mat may be arranged in the through-going opening so that the polymer-based mat forms a non-slipping arrangement when the device is positioned on a substantially plane support.
US08246419B2	Rolling machine A rolling machine includes a first clipping component, a second clipping component, a lifting component, and a holding assembly. The first clipping component has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The second clipping component has a third surface configured to contact the first surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface. The lifting component is connected to the first clipping component and configured to drive the first clipping component to move back and forth. The holding assembly has a first and second holders configured to be symmetrically positioned on both sides of the first clipping component.
US08246418B2	Working surface, and system and method for production thereof A mechanical device including: (a) a metal workpiece having a working surface for bearing a load, the working surface including a nanometric, adhesive, solid film containing carbon atoms, the film being intimately bonded to the workpiece, wherein the film is intimately bonded to the workpiece on one face of the film, and wherein an opposing face of the film is exposed, for contacting with a lubricant, (b) a contact surface, disposed substantially opposite the working surface; (c) a lubricant, disposed between the working surface and the contact surface, and (d) a mechanism for causing a relative movement between the working surface and the contact surface.
US08246417B2	Polishing apparatus and polishing method The present invention relates to a polishing apparatus and a polishing method for polishing a substrate, such as a semiconductor wafer, to planarize the substrate. The polishing apparatus according to the present invention includes a polishing table (10) having a polishing surface, a top ring (14) configured to press the substrate against the polishing table by applying pressing forces independently to first plural zones on the substrate, a sensor (50) configured to detect a state of the film at plural measuring points, a monitoring device (53) configured to produce monitoring signals with respect to second plural zones on the substrate, respectively, a storage device configured to store plural reference signals each indicating a relationship between reference values of each monitoring signal and polishing times, and a controller configured to operate the pressing forces against the first plural zones such that the monitoring signals, corresponding respectively to the second plural zones, converge on one of the plural reference signals.
US08246412B2	Manufacturing method for display using surface treatments of adhesion surfaces A manufacturing method for a display, in which a transparent plate is adhered to an outer surface of a screen provided on a display main body, includes the steps of setting the outer surface of the screen of the display main body and one surface of the transparent plate as respective adhesion surfaces, and performing a surface treatment at a peripheral edge region of one or both of the adhesion surfaces such that a surface energy of the peripheral edge region is smaller than a surface energy of a remaining region of the two adhesion surfaces and a surface energy of an adhesive used in the adhesion. The display main body and the transparent plate are disposed such that the two adhesion surfaces oppose each other via a gap, and the adhesive is injected into the gap. The surface treatment is performed within a width range of 1 mm to 3 mm from the edge regions of the adhesion surfaces.
US08246411B2	Manufacturing method for flexible display apparatus A manufacturing method for flexible display apparatus includes following steps. A carrier frame is formed on a rigid substrate. A flexible substrate is formed on the carrier substrate, wherein a border of the flexible substrate is supported by the carrier frame. A display unit is formed on the flexible substrate. At least a portion of the flexible substrate is separated from the carrier frame. In the manufacturing method, the flexible substrate and the carrier frame can be easily separated.
US08246408B2	Color calibration system for a video display Large digital displays for entertainment, architectural and advertising displays have interconnected display panels with pluralities of light emitting elements. To solve calibration problems, each of the display panels stores measured luminance and chromaticity data for each of the light emitting elements of the panel. The luminance data is independent of the chromaticity data. A central controller can then perform calibration procedures so that the light emitting elements are matched across the entire display.
US08246407B2	Surf perch A surf perch may be configured to receive a surfboard and permits a user to insert a surfboard therein, allowing him or her to sit/float in an anchored position in the water while he or she awaits a satisfactory wave. The perch may include an octagonal hole disposed vertically therethrough, which creates a mooring system and controls the angle of the anchor line relative to that of the surf perch. Additionally, the surf perch may also include a backrest assembly, with a backrest being capable to rotate upward. Also, the surf perch may be equipped with leg protection chaps surrounding the portion of the user's legs that hang into the water.
US08246405B2	Sports board A sports board comprises a top surface for supporting a rider, a bottom surface, a leading edge portion and a following edge portion with a central axis extending between the leading edge portion and the following edge portion, a first side edge portion and a second side edge portion located on respective first and second lateral sides of the central axis of the sports board. The lateral width of the sports board between the first side edge portion and the second side edge portion may be equal to, or greater than, the distance between the leading edge portion and the following edge portion. A first-side part of the bottom surface may be inclined upwardly towards the first edge portion, and a second-side part of the bottom surface may be inclined upwardly, in a lateral direction, towards the second edge portion.
US08246399B2	Outboard marine motor that allows a large steering angle In an outboard marine motor including an upper case (4) enclosing an engine (E) and a lower case (5) fitted with a propeller (12) and connected to a lower end of the upper case, the lower case is configured to be turned relative to the upper case around a vertical axial line which is coaxial with a vertical drive shaft (10) that transmit torque of the engine to the propeller. Thereby, the outboard marine motor can be steered simply by turning the lower case. Because the upper case having a relatively large lateral dimension as compared with the lower case is not required to be turned, a large steering angle can be achieved without the outboard marine motor interfering with watercraft having the outboard marine motor mounted thereon. In particular, the lower case is turned by an actuator including an electric motor and a worm gear mechanism (50) for transmitting an output torque of the electric motor to the lower case so that a high speed reduction ratio can be achieved by using a highly compact structure.
US08246397B2	Intelligent inter-connect and cross-connect patching system An intelligent network patch field management system is provided that includes electronic hardware, firmware, mechanical assemblies, cables, and software that provide visible and audible cues for connecting and disconnecting patch cords in an interconnect or cross-connect patching environment. Systems of the present invention also monitor patch cord connections in a network.
US08246396B2	Protective cover for an electrical connector for contacting a circuit carrier A protective cover for an electrical connector for contacting a circuit carrier is disclosed, wherein the electrical connector includes an electrically insulating housing and at least one contact having a contact portion for contacting a mating contact and a connecting portion for contacting a plated through hole of the circuit carrier via an electrically conductive press-in connection. The protective cover has at least one opening through which the connecting portion of the at least one contact enters in the assembled state and is configured in such a way that, in cooperation with the contact and/or the electrically insulating housing, the protective cover covers an intake region of the plated through hole toward the outside.
US08246393B2	Implosion connector and method for use with transmission line conductors comprising composite cores An electrical connector that can be compressed onto a composite transmission line without causing catastrophic damage to the non-metal/steel core. The electrical connector comprises a sleeve and a compression regulator that limits compression of the sleeve.
US08246385B2	Electrical connector assembly A connector has a top housing, a bottom housing coupled with the top housing, a plurality of terminals mounted in the top housing. The terminal has a base slice. The base slice is bent perpendicularly to form a first holding slice which has lateral sides extended outward to form a pair of fixing slices. The top housing is recessed to form a plurality of receiving passages. The receiving passage has a bottom thereof recessed to form a pair of fixing recesses. The terminal is received in the receiving passage. The fixing slices are received in the fixing recesses, which prevents the soldering slice to be knocked while assembling the bottom housing to the top housing.
US08246384B1	Variable capacitance audio cable The variable capacitance audio cable allows adjustment of the frequency response of the system in which the cable is used by varying the cable capacitance electronically. This permits musical performers using the cable to tailor the audio response to suit their performance and style.
US08246376B2	Electrical connector with flexible blade shaped handle The flexible electrical connector is designed to facilitate electrical connections between a power receiving device, such as an at least partially electric vehicle, and a power supplying device, such as an electric vehicle charging station. The flexible electrical connector has a blade shaped housing attached to a power cord that extends to the power supplying device. The blade shaped housing has a substantially rigid end portion with an electrical interface configured to detachably mate with a corresponding electrical interface on the power receiving device. The blade shaped housing also has a handle portion made of a substantially flexible material such which is configured to flex about the rigid end portion along an arc in a single plane. As such, the flexible handle can absorb impacts it receives rather than transferring them to the rigid and breakable electrical interface components.
US08246374B1	Connector assembly with connector having electrical spring plate A connector assembly for electrically connecting a hard disk to a motherboard includes a first connector and a second connector positioned on the motherboard. The first connector includes a first insulation main body, a plurality of electrical pins arranged in the first insulation main body, and a locking member positioned on the first insulation main body. The second connector includes a second insulation main body, a plurality of electrical spring plates arranged in the second insulation main body, and a protruding locking block arranged on the second insulation main body and engaged with the locking member.
US08246371B2	High pressure, high temperature standoff for electrical connector in an underground well A standoff for providing a fluid-tight seal for an electrical connection in a well between an electrical conductor extending from down hole of the well and a power source conductor extending from an above-ground power source is enclosed by and extends through and further into the wellbore. The power source conductor extends down hole to a connector for connecting the power source conductor to the electrical conductor. The standoff includes a rigid tube adapted to extend through a wellhead barrier of the well and terminate at a lower end. A rubber boot surrounds the rigid tube. An electrical insulative tubular body has a hole forming a first inner surface surrounding the power source cable between the lower end of the rigid tube and the connector, the rubber boot surrounding the tubular body. A sleeve is placed at one end of the tubular body and has a second, larger hole coaxial with the first hole and forming a second inner surface. An internal surface is formed between the first and second inner surfaces, the lip surrounding a portion of the rigid tube adjacent the lower end and the internal shoulder engages the lower end of the rigid tube for preventing the rubber boot from extruding between the tubular body and the rigid tube when pressurized and evenly distributing the compressive force on the end of the standoff. On the other end of the standoff, a washer sits atop the electrical connector and supports the insulation.
US08246370B2	Electrical connectors and methods of manufacturing and using same An electrical connector forms electrical contact by tightening a movable, electrically-conductive spiral around un-insulated wire(s). The spiral coils around the wire(s) multiple times and tightens on the wire(s) when either one or the other end, or both ends, of the spiral is/are rotated relative to the other. One region of the spiral is preferably fixed to an insulating housing or otherwise retained from movement in the housing, while another region of the spiral is rotated and latched to retain the spiral in the tightened condition. Multiple spirals may be provided in one connector, including spirals that tighten around separate wires at opposite ends/side of the connector. Modular connectors that include spiral(s) may be assembled in multiple combinations.
US08246368B2	Electrical connector with a housing movable relative to a carrier and a lever latching on the housing with a latching sound An electrical plug-type connector includes a carrier, a sleeve contact having a movable tensioning sleeve, a housing movable relative to the carrier, a mating component having a pin configured to make contact with the sleeve contact, and a lever having first and second lever arms. Joining of the mating component with the carrier causes an anti-displacement element between the housing and the carrier to be released and, as a result of a displacement of the housing relative to the carrier, the tensioning sleeve moves and presses the sleeve contact against the pin and the first lever arm displaces and connects with the mating component and the displacement of the first lever arm builds spring tension that is applied in the second lever arm such that the second lever arm latches on the housing with a latching sound when the housing reaches an end position relative to the carrier.
US08246365B2	Lever-type connector There is provided a lever-type connector capable of improving lock-releasing properties of a lever secured by a lock. The lever-type connector is provided with catches arranged at a connector of a lever, a lock at a rear surface of a wire cover, and a releasing portion at the connector. The lever includes a pair of side plates and a connector for connecting both ends of the side plates to each other, with the lever being rotatably attached to the housing between a release position and a mating position. The wire cover is attached at a rear side of the housing. The lever further includes a catch that is arranged at the connector, which is secured by a lock positioned at a rear surface of the wire cover. The lock prevents the lever from rotating to one side of the wire cover by locking the catch of the lever located at the locked position. A first plate spring of the lock extends from one side of the wire cover to the other side, while a locking portion of the lock is positioned at an end portion of the first plate spring. The locking portion is for securing the catch. A release is arranged at the connector and is used to release the catches secured by the lock.
US08246361B2	Electrical connector An electrical connector for making electrical connection to insulated conductors, the connector having a first connector part which has lengthwise extending wire channels for receiving portions of the insulated conductors; insulation displacement contacts for making separate electrical connections to the conductors, when received in the lengthwise extending wire channels, under relative movement between the insulation displacement contacts and the wires, so that the insulation covering the conductors is cut and the insulation displacement contacts make electrical connections to the conductors; transverse wire channels intersecting with said lengthwise extending wire channels and being shaped to receive portions of insulated conductors of another electrical cable from which the outer covering of the cable has been removed; and a second connector part relatively moveable with respect to the first part for effecting said relative movement, wherein the insulation displacement contacts are located at intersections of the transverse wire channels and the lengthwise extending wire channels for electrically connecting conductors seated in the transverse wire channels with respective ones of the conductors seated in the lengthwise extending wire channels during said relative movement, and said insulation displacement contacts form parts of contact elements which form socket contacts of a socket formed on the first part, said socket being adapted to receive and make electrical connection to an electrical plug.
US08246353B2	System of staging props for simulating staging furniture The device of the present invention includes one or more blanks in the form of flattened tubes, erected into tubular components and assembled together to simulate the shape of furniture pieces and which may be draped with a fitted cover to mock the desired furniture piece.
US08246350B2	Safety attachment for orthodontic wires and pliers to apply attachment A safety attachment for application to orthodontic wire in the mouth of a patient comprises a safe-end portion to be crimped onto the orthodontic wire, which once in place on the wire has no sharp edges. The safety attachment comprises upper and lower portions secured to each other by a hinge. One or both of the inner surfaces of the attachment may be textured to improve grip on the wire. The safety attachment may include means for retention by application pliers. Pliers designed for application of a safety attachment have upper and lower beaks, wherein the upper beak includes means to crimp the safe-end portion onto an orthodontic wire and the lower beak includes means to retain the safety attachment prior to applying the safe-end portion to the wire and after application release the safe-end portion leaving it in place on the wire in the patient's mouth.
US08246349B2	Orthodontic bracket An orthodontic bracket including a body (1) having a mesiodistal slot (10), a base (11), and a plurality of tie wings (12, 120) mainly developed along an occlusal-gingival direction. The tie wings are provided two-by-two on opposite sides in relation to the slot (10) and partially emerging over a labial side (L) of the body (1). The slot (10) is apt to receive an archwire (2). The tie wings (12, 120) protrude externally from the body (1) and towards the base (11), feature a curved surface (121) whose concavity is turned towards the same base (1) and constitute a support for an element (3) apt to prevent the archwire (2) from coming out of the slot (10). The element (3) features a planar portion intended to slide above, and parallel to, the labial side (L) of the body (1) and a flexible and elastic arm (33) having a portion (34) which is securable to the surface (121) of two tie wings (12) resulting on the same side in relation to the slot (10). The portion (34) of the flexible arm (33) moves along a curved path corresponding to the profile of the lower side (LT) of the tie wings (12) while the planar portion of the element (3) slides above the labial side (L) of the bracket body (1).
US08246344B1	Gas lamp The invention relates to an improvement for a low pressure gas lamp, and more specifically for a venturi tube in order to furnish a more efficient flame.
US08246343B2	Device and method for efficient mixing of two streams In one embodiment, a method for generating heat energy includes injecting a stream having a concentration of at least 50% oxygen (O2 stream) into a primary gas stream through a mixer, the mixer discharging the O2 stream as two or more spaced jets traversing the primary stream, thereby enriching the primary gas stream. The method further includes mixing fuel with the enriched primary gas stream, thereby forming a fuel stream; and combusting the fuel stream, thereby forming a flue gas stream.
US08246341B2	Mold rotator A mold rotator with a first section and a second section that are engaged approximately perpendicularly to each other to produce a base and an L-shaped platform for receiving the article. The base of the article rotator may have a curved section at the intersection of the first section and the second section and the article rotator may rotate on its curved section between a first position wherein the article rotator is supported on its first section and a second position wherein the article rotator is supported on its second section. Further, the article rotator allows an article to be safely rotated simply by lowering the article onto the article rotator so that the article rotator automatically rotates approximately 90° from a first position and a second, rotated position. The article rotator may include a stabilizing system wherein the article rotator can be stabilized at both a first position and second position which is approximately 90 degrees from the first position. The stabilizing system may include one or more conduits for transferring a material between the first and second sections of the article rotator so that material will stabilize the article rotator at the section in which the material is positioned to prevent the article rotator from inadvertently rotating. The material of the stabilizing system may be transferred by gravity and the material of the stabilizing system may be a fluid.
US08246338B2	Conditioning device for plastic items and process A device and process for conditioning plastic preforms (5) comprising a cooling turret (6) featuring faces fitted with many holders (7) for conditioning preforms (5). This turret rotates around a horizontal axis (X) and carries out a vertical traverse between a top position under an arm (3), which unloads the preforms from the mould, and a bottom position near the table for extracting the preforms (5) from the turret (6). Tie structure of the turret consists of two parallel bars (18, 19) and several joining plates (14) to which the bases of the holders (7) are attached.
US08246337B2	Multi-cavity mold A multi-cavity mold includes a female die and a male die for molding products with the female die. The female die core includes a female die body and a number of female die cores received in the female die body. The male die consists of a male die body, a number of male die cores each corresponding to one female die core received in the male die body, and an ejection member. The male die body consists of a first plate, a second plate connected to the first plate, and a plurality of restricting plates corresponding to the plurality of male die cores. The first plate defining a number of male die cavities each receive a corresponding male die core therein. The restricting plates are fixed onto the first plate and configured to restrict the male die cores in the corresponding male die cavities.
US08246336B2	Injection molding machine An injection molding machine includes a hydraulic driving system providing hydraulic power; a molding system configured for molding a workpiece; and an injection system configured for injecting a molten material to the molding system with the hydraulic power. The injection system includes a cylinder and a piston movably received in the cylinder. The cylinder is surrounded by one of an alternating current-charged coil of wire and a closed-loop coil of wire, and the piston is surrounded by the other, whereby the piston receives acceleration for movement in the cylinder.
US08246335B2	Apparatus for molding optical fiber connector An apparatus for molding optical fiber connector is provided. The optical fiber connector includes a main body. The main body has a blind hole for receiving an optical fiber two opposite surfaces being substantially parallel with the blind hole, and a lens portion aligned with the blind hole. The apparatus comprises a molding cavity and an insert for forming the blind hole. The molding cavity includes a central portion for forming the main body, a lens-forming portion for forming the lens portion, and two lateral portions for forming the corresponding surfaces. The molding cavity includes a first gate and a second gate for introducing molding material into the molding cavity. The first gate is located between the insert and one of the two lateral portions and the second gate is defined between the insert and the other one of the lateral potions.
US08246334B2	Apparatus for manufacturing a vehicle door trim A first mold has a core passage, and first and second cavities in fluid communication with each other at the core passage. A second mold has first and second nozzles therein that inject first and second resins to the first and second cavities, respectively. The core member is slidable within the core passage to provide or block the fluid communication between the cavities, and has a third nozzle therein to inject a third resin to the core passage. The first and second resins are injected into the cavities. The core member is moved to block the fluid communication between the cavities, before injecting the first and second resins is completed. The third resin is injected while moving the core member to provide the fluid communication, after injecting the first and second resins is completed. The molds are separated, thereby yielding a single molded product, such as a vehicle door trim.
US08246327B2	Dual-cylinder rocking piston compressor A duel-cylinder reciprocating rocking piston-type compressor is disclosed with side foot mounts resulting in reduced compressor vibration and noise. An optimum vertical height for the foot mounts as well as an optimum lateral or axial position along the compressor body relative to the piston connecting rod are also disclosed. Specifically, the side foot mounts are mounted to the housing at a height falling in the range of 0.5 times the height of the drive shaft to about 1.5 times the height of the drive shaft. Further, an elevated o-ring gland or gasket is disclosed for sealing the heads to the valve plates. Still further, and improved valve plate design is disclosed that includes substantially flat valve plates, monolithically connected together through a raised central portion that defines tubes or passageways connecting the intake and output chambers associated with each cylinder. The result is a compressor with a shorter vertical height, that is lighter and that produces less noise and vibration without compromising output.
US08246326B2	Mechanism for sealing PFA seal bags A seal section for use in a downhole submersible pumping system includes a housing, a bag support tube extending through the housing, a shaft positioned inside the bag support tube and a bag plate connected to the bag support tube. The bag plate preferably includes an end cap secured to the bag support tube and a locking collar threadingly engaged with the end cap. The bag plate is configured to receive the open end of a cylindrical seal bag manufactured from perflouroalkoxy polymer. The end cap includes a tapered head that tapers from a first diameter that is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the seal bag to a second diameter that is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the seal bag. This mechanism for securing the seal bag obviates the need for o-ring or other mechanical seals between the seal bag and the bag plate.
US08246324B2	Piezoelectric fan assembly A piezoelectric fan assembly includes a case defining an air outlet, a fan arranged in the case, and a guide plate mounted in the case and encircling the fan. The fan includes a mandrel positioned in the case, two swing members mounted to the mandrel and each including a piezoelectric element, a circular connecting portion connected to the at least one swing member, and a number of fan blades mounted to the connecting portion to generate airflow by the swing members in response to the piezoelectric element receiving alternating current power. A wind channel is formed between the case and the guide plate. A number of openings are defined in the guide plate corresponding to the fan blades. The guide plate is to transfer airflow from the number of fan blades to the air outlet via the wind channel, through the number of openings.
US08246321B2	Tube unit, control unit, and micropump A micropump includes: a tube unit including a tube which has elasticity, and one portion of which is disposed in an arc shape, a plurality of fingers, which are disposed radiating from a direction of a center of the arc shape of the tube, and a guide frame, which holds the tube and the plurality of fingers; and a control unit including a cam, which sequentially presses the plurality of fingers in a direction in which a liquid flows, a drive force transmission mechanism, which transmits a torque to the cam, and a control circuitry, which carries out a control of a motor which drives the drive force transmission mechanism, wherein the tube unit and the control unit are attached stacked one on the other, and are detachable.
US08246320B2	Muffler for compressor A muffler for a compressor has a chamber between an inlet and an outlet and a communicating pipe for indirectly connecting the inlet to the outlet, whereby a suction loss of a refrigerant sucked into the muffler for the compressor can be reduced and also pressure pulsation can be reduced so as to enhance a cooling capability of the compressor and achieve a noise reduction effect. Also, an assembling structure of the muffler can be simplified, resulting in reduction of fabricating cost and improvement of productivity.
US08246313B2	Dynamic port for measuring reactor coolant pump bearing oil level A dynamic port that extends from the bottom wall of an oil reservoir that surrounds the lower guide bearing of a reactor coolant pump and is in fluid communication within an oil level gauge. The dynamic port is rotatable into and out of the oil flow path to adjust the dynamic oil level shown by the oil level gauge when the pump is at operating speed to be substantially equal to the static oil level when the motor is at rest.
US08246307B2	Blade for a rotor A blade for a rotor, such as a turbine rotor of a gas turbine engine, has a squealer tip comprising a peripheral wall which defines a cavity. A first region of the peripheral wall extends radially, with its outer surface forming a continuation of the adjacent aerofoil surface of the blade. A second region extends obliquely with respect to the radial direction and the adjacent part of the aerofoil surface. The second region defines a winglet, and serves to increase the width of the chamber towards the trailing edge of the blade.
US08246303B2	Active twist hollow beam system A system for actively controlling the span-wise rotational twist of a hollow beam along its longitudinal axis, including a hollow beam structure having a leading edge and a trailing edge region, the beam being split along its length, an actuator arranged between split surfaces of the beam, the actuator adapted to move the split surfaces in a longitudinal direction relative to each other, inducing a twist in the beam. In one embodiment, the actuator is a plurality of thermal expansion material blocks alternating with mechanical compression blocks, the thermal expansion material blocks being heated to cause expansion in the spanwise longitudinal direction. Other alternative actuators include a rotary actuators such as a threaded screw, piezoelectric or magnetostrictive blocks, a hydraulic actuator, or a pneumatic actuator. In an embodiment, the beam is an airfoil shape.
US08246302B2	Teeter-restraint device for wind turbines A wind turbine system includes a shaft, a rotor for driving the shaft, and a first fluidic teeter control assembly. The rotor includes a first blade engaged to the shaft by a hub, and has a degree of freedom to pivot relative to the shaft. A first teeter angle is defined between an instantaneous position of the first blade and a time-averaged plane of rotation of the first blade. The first fluidic teeter control assembly is engaged between the rotor and the shaft for providing a first dynamic teeter restraining force as a function of the first teeter angle and a fluidic resistance. The first dynamic restraining force is relatively low when the first teeter angle is within a first teeter operation range, and the first dynamic restraining force is higher when the first teeter angle is outside that range.
US08246301B2	Fan assembly A fan assembly includes a side panel, a mounting panel and a fan module. The side panel defines a vent. The mounting panel is perpendicularly attached to the side panel. A retaining opening is defined in the mounting pane. The fan module includes a fan and a retaining member. The fan is configured for generating airflow towards the vent. The retaining member is attached to the fan module. The retaining member includes a body and an arm. The body includes a resilient portion. A protrusion protrudes from the resilient portion corresponding to the retaining opening. The arm is connected to the resilient portion. The arm is capable of being actuated to pull the resilient portion to deform away from the mounting panel to disengage the protrusion from the retaining opening.
US08246298B2	Borescope boss and plug cooling A coolable borescope boss includes cooling passages extending through the boss and oriented for spraying cooling air into a hole extending through the boss. Centerlines of the cooling passages may intersect the a hole axis of the hole. The cooling passages may be cylindrical or open slots disposed through the boss. The boss may be on an arcuate gas turbine engine shroud segment circumscribed about an axial centerline axis. The segment may be part of an annular segmented turbine shroud having cylindrical shroud first and second sections and a conical shroud midsection therebetween and the segment having cylindrical segment first and second sections and a conical segment midsection therebetween. A hole exit of the hole being flush with the conical segment midsection. A borescope plug tip having a spherical tip chamfer may be used to seal against a conical boss chamfer of the boss.
US08246297B2	Shroud segment cooling configuration An cooling arrangement for a turbine shroud provides an air stream directed from a passage extending through a radial wall to impinge on a surface in an area of a back side of the turbine shroud, the surface defining a plane which improves the attack angle of the air stream to the surface.
US08246295B2	Riserless transfer pump and mixer/pre-melter for molten metal applications A pump for processing molten metal having an enlarged tubular body which houses a centrifugal pump at its bottom end. The bottom end has a parabolic shape which receives the ejected molten metal from the impeller and forms a vortex within the tubular body. The pump is controlled to cause the vortex to climb up the inner wall of the body up to and out of an outlet formed in the upper end of the body. A radial vane impeller is formed in the back plate of the impeller. When the impeller is rotated, solid particles introduced into the body are accelerated radially by the back plate impeller into the vortex.
US08246291B2	Thermal system for a working member of a power plant A working member for a power plant is disclosed herein. The working member includes a body defining at least one working surface of the working member. The at least one working surface is operable to contact a working fluid. The body also includes at least one inner surface opposite the at least one working surface. The working member also includes an interior chamber defined within at least part of the body proximate to the at least one working surface. The working member also includes at least one inlet to the interior chamber. The working member also includes at least one outlet from the interior chamber. The working member also includes a quantity of open-cell foam positioned in the interior chamber between the inlet and the outlet. The quantity of open-cell foam fills less than all of the interior chamber such that at least one empty space is defined in the interior chamber between the at least one inner surface and the quantity of open-cell foam.
US08246289B2	End effector and robot for transferring a substrate having the same In a substrate transfer robot, an end effector includes a wrist plate, a first blade movably connected to the wrist plate in a vertical direction to support a first substrate, and a second blade connected to the wrist plate to support a second substrate, wherein the second blade is adjacent to the first blade. An elevating unit moves the first blade upward to allow the first blade to support the first substrate and moves the first blade downward to allow the second blade to support the second substrate.
US08246285B2	Barrier system for an aircraft loader An aircraft loader including a bridge platform, an elevator platform and a barrier system is provided. The barrier system has first and second guiding elements respectively attached to the bridge platform on each side thereof, and first and second supporting elements respectively mounted on a corresponding side of the elevator platform. The barrier system is provided with an inverted-U-shaped element having first and second legs and a transverse element extending therebetween, each of the legs being slidably mounted inside a corresponding guiding element and cooperating with a corresponding supporting element adapted for supporting the legs and driving the inverted-U-shaped element with the elevator platform. The inverted-U-shaped element is slidable between a raised position providing a passage for loads thereunder when both platforms interface and a lower position wherein the transverse element extends across the passage for providing a guardrail between the platforms when the elevator platform extends below the bridge platform.

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