Document Document Title
US08581248B2 Thin film transistor (TFT) having copper electrodes
A TFT structure is provided in which an oxidic semiconductor is used in combination with an electrode material based on a Cu alloy.
US08581242B2 Apparatus combining bypass diode and wire
The present invention relates to an apparatus combining bypass diode and wire. According to the present invention, the bypass diode can connect with the wire directly. It is not necessary to reserve an extra region on the substrate of the solar cell as the wire soldering area. Thereby, the required area of the ceramic substrate is reduced, and hence lowering the manufacturing cost of the solar cell substantially.
US08581239B2 Package structure and semiconductor structure thereof
A semiconductor structure comprises a carrier, a plurality of under bump metallurgy layers, a plurality of copper containing bumps and an organic barrier layer, wherein the carrier comprises a protective layer and a plurality of conductive pads, mentioned protective layer comprises a plurality of openings, the conductive pads exposed by the openings, mentioned under bump metallurgy layers being formed on the conductive pads, mentioned copper containing bumps being formed on the under bump metallurgy layers, each of the copper containing bumps comprises a top surface and a ring surface in connection with the top surface, mentioned organic barrier layer having a first coverage portion, and mentioned first coverage portion covers the top surface and the ring surface of each of the copper containing bumps.
US08581238B2 Dithienothiophene derivatives
An organic compound represented by the following general formula (I) wherein n is an integer from 1 to 500, inclusive, and R1 and R2 are each independently a moiety having an atom length of from about 8 atoms to about 20 atoms.
US08581236B2 Electrically pumped optoelectronic semiconductor chip
An electrically pumped optoelectronic semiconductor chip includes at least two radiation-active quantum wells comprising InGaN or consisting thereof. The optoelectronic semiconductor chip includes at least two cover layers which include AlGaN or consist thereof. Each of the cover layers is assigned to precisely one of the radiation-active quantum wells. The cover layers are each located on a p-side of the associated radiation-active quantum well. The distance between the radiation-active quantum well and the associated cover layer is at most 1.5 nm.
US08581235B2 Resonance tunneling devices and methods of manufacturing the same
Provided are a resonance tunneling device and a method of manufacturing the resonance tunneling device. The resonance tunneling device includes a substrate, a plurality of electrodes disposed on the substrate, and a nanoparticle layer disposed between the electrodes, and doped with an impurity. The nanoparticle layer uses the impurity to exhibit resonance tunneling where a current peak occurs at a target bias voltage applied between the electrodes.
US08581230B2 Light-emitting device having enhanced luminescence by using surface plasmon resonance and method of fabricating the same
A quantum dot light-emitting device includes a substrate, a first electrode, a hole injection layer (“HIL”), a hole transport layer (“HTL”), an emitting layer, an electron transport layer (“ETL”), a plurality of nanoplasmonic particles buried in the ETL, and a second electrode.
US08581228B2 Corner cube enhanced photocathode
Techniques are disclosed for improving the quantum efficiency of photocathode devices. The techniques allow for an increase in the optical thickness of the photocathode device, while simultaneously allowing for an increase in the probability of electron escape into the vacuum of the device. The techniques are particularly useful in detector and imaging. In one embodiment, a photocathode device is provided that has an array of corner cubes fabricated in a surface of the photocathode. The corner cube array is made of the same material as the photocathode layer. The device may be, for example, a detector or image intensifier that operates in the UV, visible, and IR light spectrums, and may further include a gain medium, anode, and readout device. Techniques for forming the device are also provided.
US08581227B2 Quantum computational systems
A computer-implemented method for encryption and decryption using quantum computational model is disclosed. Such a method includes providing a model of a lattice having a system of non-abelian anyons disposed thereon. From the lattice model, a first quantum state associated with the lattice is determined. Movement of non-abelian anyons within the lattice is modeled to model formation of first and second quantum braids in the space-time of the lattice. The first quantum braid corresponds to first text. The second quantum braid corresponds to second text. A second quantum state associated with the lattice is determined from the lattice model after formation of the first and second quantum braids has been modeled. The second quantum state corresponds to second text that is different from the first text.
US08581211B2 Imaging method and system using substrate functionalization
An imaging system for analyzing fluorescent molecules in a sample, including a confocal microscope device, has a support in contact with at least a portion of the sample. In the system, the support surface in contact with the sample is functionalized so as to reduce the observation volume of the microscope on the surface in the axial direction. The present disclosure also relates to various uses of such a system as well as to a method for analyzing fluorescent molecules in a sample, the method being implemented by such a system.
US08581210B2 Fluorescence intensity compensation method and fluorescence intensity computing apparatus
A fluorescence intensity compensation method includes emitting light onto microparticles multiply labeled with a plurality of fluorochromes having fluorescence wavelength ranges that overlap each other in order to excite the fluorochromes and receiving fluorescence generated by the excited fluorochromes using photodetectors having different reception wavelength ranges, and computing fluorescence intensities of the fluorochromes by compensating detection values of the photodetectors under a predetermined constraint condition imposed on the computed fluorescence intensities.
US08581198B2 Apparatus and method for detecting radiation
An apparatus and method for detecting radiation, which can improve the resolution of a radiation image and contribute to the simplification of the manufacture of the apparatus, are provided. The apparatus includes an upper electrode layer transmitting radiation; a first photoconductive layer becoming photoconductive upon exposure to the radiation and thus generating charges therein; a charge trapping layer trapping therein the charges generated in the first photoconductive layer and serving as a floating electrode; a second photoconductive layer becoming photoconductive upon exposure to rear light for reading out a radiation image; a lower transparent electrode layer charged with the charges trapped in the charge trapping layer; a rear light emission unit applying the rear light to the second photoconductive layer via the lower transparent electrode layer in units of pixels; and a data processing unit reading out a signal corresponding to the charges trapped in the charge trapping layer from the lower transparent electrode layer and generating a radiation image based on the read-out signal.
US08581197B2 Radiation tomography apparatus
Radiation tomography apparatus of this invention has a shield that shields entering of radiation flying from outside of the gantry. The shield is formed of shielding pieces. Consequently, there is no need for manufacturing the shield in a large and expensive furnace. Accordingly, the radiation tomography apparatus may be provided that is easily manufactured and achieves suppressed cost. Moreover, with the radiation tomography apparatus of this invention, maintenance may be performed through removal of the shielding pieces without removing the entire shield.
US08581195B2 System and method for assaying radiation
A system for assaying radiation includes a sample holder configured to hold a liquid scintillation solution. A photomultiplier receives light from the liquid scintillation solution and generates a signal reflective of the light. A control circuit biases the photomultiplier and receives the signal from the photomultiplier reflective of the light. A light impermeable casing surrounds the sample holder, photomultiplier, and control circuit. A method for assaying radiation includes placing a sample in a liquid scintillation solution, placing the liquid scintillation solution in a sample holder, and placing the sample holder inside a light impermeable casing. The method further includes positioning a photomultiplier inside the light impermeable casing and supplying power to a control circuit inside the light impermeable casing.
US08581186B2 Charged particle beam apparatus
There is proposed a charged particle beam apparatus including: a plurality of noise removal filters that remove noise of an electrical signal; a measurement unit that measures the contrast-to-noise ratio after applying one of the noise removal filters; and a determination unit that determines a magnitude relationship between the contrast-to-noise ratio measured by the measurement unit and a threshold value set in advance.
US08581184B2 Quadrupole mass spectrometer
Provided is a quadrupole mass spectrometer including direct-current voltage sources having response characteristics which ensure that the response time of the direct-current voltage will be shorter than the period of time required for an ion having the highest mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) among the ions introduced into a quadrupole mass filter to pass through this filter. Main rod electrodes and pre-rod electrodes are connected to each other via primary differentiation circuits. Thus, in the transient state of the voltage change due to the switching of the mass-to-charge ratio, among the ions entering the quadrupole mass filter, ions having low m/z values can be removed by a pre-electrode unit, and ions having high m/z values can be removed by a main electrode unit. Accordingly, a large amount of ions can be prevented from passing through the filter and entering an ion detector.
US08581183B2 Calibration function for time-of-flight mass spectrometers with extreme mass accuracy
A calibration function for time-of-flight mass spectrometers that converts ion times of flight into mass to charge ratios, takes into account not only the time of flight of a specific ionic species, but also the ion signal intensity of that ionic species. Use of the conversion function reduces nonsystematic deviations of the calculated mass values from the true mass values previously experienced in time of flight mass spectrometers.
US08581182B2 Ion guiding device
An ion guiding device is disclosed comprising a first ion guide which is conjoined with a second ion guide. Ions are urged across a radial pseudo-potential barrier which separates the two guiding regions by a DC potential gradient. Ions may be transferred from an ion guide which has a relatively large cross-sectional profile to an ion guide which has a relatively small cross-sectional profile in order to improve the subsequent ion confinement of the ions.
US08581175B2 Device for converting light into an electrical signal
A device for converting light transmitted by an optical transmission element into an electrical signal. Light is decoupled from a coiled or helically bent fiber and coupled into distributed over photovoltaic cells rather than concentrated at a small coupling location.
US08581173B2 Fiber optic transceiver module having a molded cover in which an optical beam transformer made of an elastomer is integrally formed
An FOT module is provided that has a molded cover in which an optical beam transformer is integrally formed. The molded cover includes at least a nontransparent molded part that is secured to a mounting structure, such as a molded leadframe or a PCB, on which at least one active optical device is mounted. The material of which the nontransparent molded part is made has a CTE that matches, or nearly matches, the CTE of the body of the mounting structure. Consequently, exposure of the FOT module to temperature variations will not result in delaminations at the interface of the mounting structure and the nontransparent molded part.
US08581165B2 Optomechanical MEMS device including a proof mass and an illumination mitigating mechanism
A micro-opto-electro-mechanical system having a proof mass; at least one illumination source for providing illumination; an illumination detector; peripheral electronics; and an illumination mitigating mechanism for mitigating the effect of illumination emitted from the at least one illumination source on the peripheral electronics. According to various embodiments, the illumination mitigating mechanism includes handles disposed on the proof mass, an illumination collimating device, a substrate with a recess, a narrow beam light source, an illumination absorbing layer or optical limiters.
US08581162B2 Weighting surface fit points based on focus peak uncertainty
A machine vision inspection system acquires a plurality of images of a workpiece region of interest at various focus heights, and determines a Z-height (e.g., the best focus height) for the region of interest based on a focus peak determining data set for the region of interest. The focus peak determining data set is derived from the plurality of images. The machine vision inspection system also determines Z-height quality meta-data based on data derived from the plurality of images (e.g., based on the focus peak determining data set), and associates the Z-height quality meta-data with the corresponding Z-heights. The Z-height quality meta-data are usable to establish weighting factors that are used in association with the corresponding best focus Z-heights in subsequent operations that fit a workpiece surface representation to a plurality of the best focus Z-heights.
US08581161B2 Seeker with a molded dichroic mirror
A molded dichroic mirror and a seeker comprising a molded dichroic mirror are provided. The dichroic mirror may be molded from polysiloxane or lithia potash borosilicate and may be coated to reflect an infrared signal and configured to transmit a radio frequency signal between 33 GHz and 37 GHz.
US08581159B2 Control method for a cooktop and cooktop for carrying out said method
A method and cooktop include a cooktop panel, a cooking zone, and an induction heating device disposed below the cooktop panel. First, second and third heat sensor units are disposed beneath the cooktop panel in a region of a measuring spot. The first heat sensor unit is configured to measure heat flow from substantially only the cooktop panel. The second and third heat sensor units are configured to measure heat flow from the cooktop panel and a cooking utensil disposed thereon. A light source is provided for measuring an emissivity of the bottom of the cooking utensil. An auxiliary heater heats the region of the measuring spot. An electrical control system calculates a ratio from signals of the second and third heat sensor units and determines an actual temperature of the bottom of the cooking utensil from the ratio by using a temperature of a lower surface of the cooktop panel measured by the first sensor unit and a value of the emissivity of the cooking utensil bottom.
US08581157B2 Band heater systems and assembly methods
A band heater assembly for heating an object includes a band heater that extends around at least a portion of a perimeter of the object. The band heater includes a cable and a band. The cable includes a resistive element, a first cable end and a second cable end. The resistive element generates thermal energy based on a current received from a power source. The first cable end and the second cable end are connected to respective ends of the band heater assembly. The band is connected to the cable and transfers a first portion of the thermal energy to an exterior surface of the object. At least a portion of the cable is exposed from the band heater to contact the exterior surface when the band heater assembly is connected to the object.
US08581153B2 Method of detecting abnormal placement of substrate, substrate processing method, computer-readable storage medium, and substrate processing apparatus
A method of detecting an abnormal placement of a substrate W, which is carried out when a substrate W placed on a substrate table 3, in which a heater 6a, 6b is disposed, is processed by heating. The method of detecting an abnormal placement of the substrate comprises the steps of: during processing of the substrate W, based on information about an electric output to the heater 6a, 6b or information about a measured temperature of the substrate table 3, detecting of a maximum value and a minimum value of the electric output or the measured temperature, or an integrated value of the electric output or the measured temperature; and judging of the abnormal placement of the substrate based on the maximum value and the minimum value detected, or the integrated value detected.
US08581152B2 Multi-zone heating system
A heating system is disclosed including a cabinet, at least one heating pad subassembly, and a plurality of couplings. The cabinet has walls defining an interior heating chamber. The heating pad subassembly is disposed on an exterior surface of the walls of the cabinet and includes a heating element and a plurality of openings formed there through. The plurality of couplings includes a plurality of coupling first portions disposed on the exterior surface of the walls and a plurality of coupling second portions coupled to the plurality of coupling first portions. At least a portion of the plurality of couplings extend through the plurality of openings in the heating pad subassembly, thereby coupling the heating pad subassembly to the cabinet.
US08581150B1 Portable warmer for use with cell culture plate
A portable warmer for use with a cell culture plate in order to maintain culture samples borne by the culture plate at a desired temperature includes a body having formed therein a shelf that is sized and shaped to generally conform to the outside dimensions of the base of a cell culture plate. The shelf includes a substantially horizontal surface atop of which the base of the cell culture plate may be freely rested. The shelf also includes a preferably electric heating element, which may be formed unitary with the horizontal surface of the shelf or may be contained within the body of the portable warmer in an area and in a manner adapted to cause heating of the horizontal surface of the shelf. The portable warmer is provided with one or more clamping devices for securing a received cell culture plate in place atop the shelf.
US08581148B2 Methods and apparatus providing flame-less heat
An apparatus (10) provides flame-less heat utilizing electric heaters (90) receiving electricity from a generator (22) powered by an engine (20) of a self-contained trailer including a base (12) in the form of a fuel tank. An exhaust heat reclaimer (56) is located in an elevated portion (32) of a manifold (30) further including a vertical portion (42) in front of the engine (20). A centrifugal impeller (80) in a T interconnection draws air from the vertical portion (42) through a radiator (50) of the engine (20) and into first and second pressure blowers (76) which force air through the heaters (90) and transitions (92, 94) to exit ducts (96).
US08581140B2 Laser processing apparatus, laser processing head and laser processing method
A laser processing apparatus is provided. The laser processing apparatus includes a laser processing head having a transmission window, an opening portion, an outlet hole, a first vent hole and a second vent hole. The transmission window transmits laser light by which a processing object is irradiated. The opening portion passes the transmitted laser light to a bottom portion of the laser processing head. The outlet hole discharges an atmosphere in the vicinity of a laser light irradiation region of the processing object to the outside. The first vent hole directs gas into the vicinity of the laser light irradiation region. The second vent hole discharges the atmosphere in the vicinity of the laser light irradiation region. Debris generated from the processing object is discharged from the outlet hole and the second vent hole that are continuous with the opening portion provided at the bottom portion of the laser processing head.
US08581138B2 Thermal spray method and apparatus using plasma transferred wire arc
A method of thermally depositing metal onto a target surface using a plasma transferred wire arc thermal spray apparatus, wherein the method includes the steps of offsetting the central axis of a consumable wire with respect to an axial centerline of a constricting orifice; and establishing and operating a plasma transferred wire arc between a cathode and a free end of the consumable wire; and melting and atomizing a continually fed free end of the consumable wire into molten metal particles and projecting the particles onto said target surface.
US08581136B2 Method of manufacturing by electric discharge machining an impeller for centrifugal rotating machine
A method for manufacturing an impeller of a centrifugal rotating machine that is approximately disk-shaped and in which flow passages are formed between a plurality of blades and disposed in a radial manner from the inner circumferential side to the outer circumferential side, provided with a first flow passage formation step that forms a first region on the outer circumferential side within the flow passage by inserting an electrode of a shape fitting to the flow passage with the electric discharge machining method from the outer circumferential side of the disk-shaped body having an outer shape of an impeller, and a second flow passage formation step that forms a second region on the inner circumferential side within the flow passage from the inner circumferential side of the disk-shaped body.
US08581135B2 Latching and locking device inside a switch or a circuit breaker
The embodiments of the switch described herein include latching and locking systems so as to retain the rod of a vacuum bottle in a determined, open or closed, position, the systems being driven and controlled by the same means that cause the movable portion of the vacuum bottle to move, or by the disconnector itself.
US08581130B2 Key structure with scissors-type connecting member
A key structure with a scissors-type connecting member is provided. The scissors-type connecting member includes a first frame and a second frame. The first frame includes a rotating shaft and a pushing bulge. After the first frame is stacked on the second frame, if the second frame may be pushed by the pushing bulge, the second frame is subject to deformation to facilitate combining the first frame and the second frame together.
US08581125B2 Illuminated keyboard
An illuminated keyboard includes a supporting plate, a transparent frame plate, a key, a light source and a membrane switch circuit module. The light source is arranged between the key and the transparent frame plate. The transparent frame plate is disposed on said supporting plate for enhancing the structural strength of the illuminated keyboard. The light beam emitted by the light source is incident into the transparent frame plate, reflected by the supporting plate, and transmitted through the transparent frame plate, the membrane switch circuit module and the key. In such way, the key is illuminated.
US08581121B2 Force-transmitting device with a calibration weight that can be coupled and uncoupled
The disclosed embodiments describe force-transmitting devices for use in gravimetric measuring instruments. The force-transmitting devices scale the force from a calibration weight to facilitate calibration and weighing. The devices comprise unidirectional coupling elements. The unidirectional coupling element comprises coupling element parts. The elements may be adapted to transmit only a tensile force or only a compressive force to a measurement transducer. Adapting the unidirectional coupling element to transmit one type of force or the other may be done by selecting an appropriate arrangement of coupling element parts. The coupling element parts are adapted to transmit force along a midline axis by either a projection and v-shaped groove coupling or projections on the first part mated with surfaces on the second part adapted to receive and guide the first part.
US08581120B2 Sleeve for barrier connector, and barrier connector
A barrier connector has a through bore for the passage of cables (103) which are sealed with an epoxy putty (104). A cup (25) and insert (35) define an annulus within which the putty is confined. A circular groove (42) is provided in one end of the insert to lock the putty against radial shrinkage or expansion.
US08581115B2 Grounding bar/hatchplate for use with lightning arrestors
A hatchplate, formed of copper material, has first and second perpendicular surfaces with punched holes formed therein to provide for connecting the hatchplate to building ground, for mounting the hatchplate to a wall of the telecommunications facility and for mounting one or more surge suppressors to the hatchplate, thereby providing for a suitable ground connection for the surge suppressors.
US08581110B2 Printed circuit board and method of manufacturing the same
A mounting region is provided at an approximately center of one surface of an insulating layer. A conductive trace is formed so as to outwardly extend from inside of the mounting region. A cover insulating layer is formed in a periphery of the mounting region so as to cover the conductive trace. A terminal of the conductive trace is arranged in the mounting region, and a bump of an electronic component is bonded to the terminal. A metal layer made of copper, for example, is provided on the other surface of the insulating layer. A pair of slits is formed in the metal layer such that a region being opposite to the electronic component is sandwiched therebetween. Each slit is formed so as not to divide the metal layer into a plurality of regions.
US08581108B1 Method for providing near-hermetically coated integrated circuit assemblies
The present invention is a method for providing an integrated circuit assembly, the integrated circuit assembly including an integrated circuit and a substrate. The method includes mounting the integrated circuit to the substrate. The method further includes, during assembly of the integrated circuit assembly, applying a low processing temperature, at least near-hermetic, glass-based coating directly to the integrated circuit and a localized interconnect interface, the interface being configured for connecting the integrated circuit to at least one of the substrate and a second integrated circuit of the assembly. The method further includes curing the coating. Further, the integrated circuit may be a device which is available for at least one of sale, lease and license to a general public, such as a Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) device. Still further, the coating may promote corrosion resistance and reliability of the integrated circuit assembly.
US08581102B2 Curable composition for medium and high voltage power cables
An electric cable, has an electrical conductor surrounded by a cured electrically-insulating layer obtained from a curable composition with a polymer matrix, the polymer matrix having one or more polyolefins and a polyvinyl acetal as agent for reducing the formation of water treeing, the quantity of PVA being no more than 10% by weight in the composition.
US08581096B2 Gel electrolytes for dye sensitized solar cells
Replacing liquid electrolytes with solid or quasi-solid electrolytes facilitates the production of photovoltaic cells using continuous manufacturing processes, such as roll-to-roll or web processes, thus creating inexpensive, lightweight photovoltaic cells using flexible plastic substrates.
US08581088B2 Thermoelectric power generation apparatus and method
A thermoelectric power generation apparatus includes a thermoelectric device having a first surface, an opposed second surface, and a first thermal energy storage unit operatively coupled to the first surface of the thermoelectric device setting the first surface at a first temperature. The thermoelectric power generation apparatus also includes a second thermal energy storage unit having a second temperature, the second thermal energy unit for setting the second surface of the thermoelectric device at an operative temperature in response to a temperature difference between the first temperature of the first surface and the second temperature of the second thermal energy storage unit. The thermoelectric device generates power in response to a temperature differential between the first temperature of the first surface and the operative temperature of the second surface.
US08581087B2 Tone generating style notification control for wind instrument having mouthpiece section
Detection is made of a physical amount caused by operation performed on a mouthpiece with a human player's mouth, and a tone pitch corresponding to the detected physical amount is identified by referencing a memory storing information defining relationship between various ranges of the physical amount and tone pitches. Expected tone generating style is notified to the player based on the identified tone pitch. The memory contains a pitch table defining relationship between various ranges of the physical amount and tone pitches, and a gain table defining gain information corresponding to deviations of the physical amount from a predetermined reference point for each tone pitch and within the range of the physical amount corresponding to the tone pitch. For the detected physical amount, a tone pitch and gain information are identified by referencing the pitch gain tables, so that the identified tone pitch and gain information is notified.
US08581086B2 Computer interface for polyphonic stringed instruments
An interface device is described that allows the audio signals from a polyphonic stringed instrument to be introduced into a personal computer environment for feature extraction and signal processing.
US08581082B1 Inbred sunflower (Helianthus annuus) line, designated OIN807A/B
The present invention relates to an inbred sunflower line, designated OIN807A/B. The invention relates to the seeds of inbred sunflower line OIN807A/B, to the plants of inbred sunflower line OIN807A/B and to the methods for producing a sunflower plant, either inbred or hybrid, by crossing the inbred line OIN807A/B with itself or another sunflower line. The invention further relates to methods for producing a sunflower plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other inbred sunflower lines derived from the inbred OIN807A/B.
US08581076B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV760185
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV760185. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV760185, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV760185 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV760185 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV760185.
US08581074B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV038252
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV038252. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV038252, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV038252 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV038252 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV038252.
US08581072B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV214305
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV214305. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV214305, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV214305 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV214305 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV214305.
US08581067B1 Maize variety hybrid X08B801
A novel maize variety designated X08B801 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 X08B801 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X08B801 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X08B801, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X08B801. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X08B801.
US08581066B1 Maize variety hybrid X08A148
A novel maize variety designated X08A148 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 X08A148 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X08A148 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X08A148, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X08A148. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X08A148.
US08581065B1 Maize variety hybrid X03B513
A novel maize variety designated X03B513 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 X03B513 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X03B513 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X03B513, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X03B513. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X03B513.
US08581053B2 Soybean variety A1025921
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1025921. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1025921. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1025921 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1025921 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08581048B2 Plants and seeds of spring canola variety SCV119103
The invention relates to a novel canola line designated as SCV119103. The invention also relates to the seeds, the plants, and the plant parts of canola line SCV119103 as well as to methods for producing a canola plant produced by crossing canola line SCV119103 with itself or with another canola line. The invention also relates to methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic canola plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention further relates to canola lines or breeding lines and plant parts derived from canola line SCV119103, to methods for producing other canola lines or plant parts derived from canola line SCV119103 and to the canola plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention additionally relates to hybrid canola seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the line SCV119103 with another canola line.
US08581046B2 Brassica gat event DP-073496-4 and compositions and methods for the identification and/or detection thereof
Compositions and methods related to transgenic glyphosate tolerant Brassica plants are provided. Specifically, the present invention provides Brassica plants having a DP-073496-4 event which imparts tolerance to glyphosate. The Brassica plant harboring the DP-073496-4 event at the recited chromosomal location comprises genomic/transgene junctions within SEQ ID NO: 2 or with genomic/transgene junctions as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 and/or 13. The characterization of the genomic insertion site of the event provides for an enhanced breeding efficiency and enables the use of molecular markers to track the transgene insert in the breeding populations and progeny thereof. Various methods and compositions for the identification, detection, and use of the event are provided.
US08581045B2 Hypervirulent mutant of Agrobacterium tumefaciens
This disclosure relates to a mutant Agrobacterium tumefaciens that is functionally deleted for the atu1060 gene that codes for the cyclic di-GMP synthase Atu1060, as well as methods for its use in transforming plants with desired transgenes. Such bacteria are more virulent than currently used strains of A. tumefaciens, and thus can be used to transform a wider variety of plants, such as plants that are traditionally recalcitrant to such transformation.
US08581040B2 Methods of producing GABA
The present invention describes an alternative approach to increase GABA production in prokaryotes or eukaryotes, namely by the insertion of the putrescine catabolic pathway in organisms where the pathway does not exist or has not clearly been identified. The invention describes methods for the use of polynucleotides that encode functional putrescine aminotransferase (PAT) and gamma-aminobutyricaldehyde dehydrogenase (GABAlde DeHase) polypeptides in plants to increase GABA production. The preferred embodiment of the invention is in plants but other organisms may be used. Changes in GABA availability will improve growth and increase tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress.
US08581029B2 Genetic loci associated with Fusarium solani tolerance in soybean
The invention relates to methods and compositions for identifying soybean plants that are tolerant, have improved tolerance or are susceptible to Fusarium solani infection (the causative agent of sudden death syndrome or SDS). The methods use molecular genetic markers to identify, select and/or construct disease-tolerant plants or identify and counterselect disease-susceptible plants. Soybean plants that display tolerance or improved tolerance to Fusarium solani infection that are generated by the methods of the invention are also a feature of the invention.
US08581025B2 Recombinant constructs and transgenic fluorescent ornamental fish therefrom
The present invention relates to the method and use of reef coral fluorescent proteins in making transgenic red, green and yellow fluorescent zebrafish. Preferably, such fluorescent zebrafish are fertile and used to establish a population of transgenic zebrafish and to provide to the ornamental fish industry for the purpose of marketing. Thus, new varieties of ornamental fish of different fluorescence colors from a novel source are developed.
US08581024B2 Blue transgenic fluorescent ornamental fish
The present invention relates to transgenic blue ornamental fish, as well as methods of making such fish by in vitro fertilization techniques. Also disclosed are methods of establishing a population of such transgenic fish and methods of providing them to the ornamental fish industry for the purpose of marketing.
US08581022B2 Method of identifying a compound for preventing and/or treating an autoimmune disease
A method of identifying a compound for preventing and/or treating an autoimmune disease is described which comprises obtaining a (BTLA−/−) NKT cell from a non-human animal, contacting the (BTLA−/−) NKT cell ex vivo with a test compound, in the presence of an antigen, measuring a response of the (BTLA−/−) NKT cell to the antigen, comparing the response of the (BTLA−/−) NKT cell to the antigen with a response of a (BTLA−/−) NKT cell in control assay, and selecting the compound that reduces the response of the (BTLA−/−) NKT cell in the presence of an antigen compared to a response of a (BTLA−/−) NKT cell in the control assay. Other methods of identifying a compound for preventing and/or treating an autoimmune disease are also described.
US08581021B2 Pig whose genome comprises a heterologous site-specific recombination site and a transpohon tag
The present invention relates to a genetically modified pig comprising at least one site for integration of at least one transgene. The invention also pertains to a porcine embryo, blastocyst, fetus, donor cell and/or cell nucleus, derived from said genetically modified pig. In another aspect, the invention relates to any genetically modified porcine blastocyst, wherein the genetically modified genome comprises at least one site for integration of at least one transgene.
US08581020B2 Transfer layer for absorbent article
A film particularly suited for use as a transfer layer in an absorbent article has a plurality of capillaries and a plurality of drains, said capillaries comprising side walls depending from a female side of the film and terminating in an aperture on a male side of the film; said drains comprising side walls that depending from the female side of the film and terminating in an aperture on the male side of the film, wherein the drains are disposed at an obtuse angle relative to a base plane of the film.
US08581017B2 Conformable wound dressing
A wound dressing comprising an absorbent pad, an adhesive layer, and a backing layer is described, along with a dressing support layer configured to retain and deliver the wound dressing to a wound, the dressing support layer having a radial configuration that forms a plurality of alternating covered and uncovered portions of the backing layer along the perimeter of the wound dressing.
US08581015B2 Apparatus for restoring waste plastic to oil
Apparatus and method for restoring plastics to oil, thereby efficiently recycling waste plastics, comprises a decomposer, an oil reduction body, a cooling tank, and a filter and emission part. The decomposer comprises a decomposition space comprising an opening to receive the plastic, a heating coil inside the decomposer to heat the decomposition space to pyrolyze the plastic, and a pyrolyzing gas exhaust pipe to exhaust pyrolyzing gas produced in pyrolyzing the plastic. The oil reduction body is divided into a cooling space and a oil catchment space by a partition. The cooling tank provides cooling water to the cooling space to cool and reduce the pyrolyzing gas to oil, which is collected in the oil catchment space.
US08581014B2 Process for the production of hydrocarbons, useful for motor vehicles, from mixtures of a biological origin
Provided is a process for producing, in a single step, hydrocarbon fractions useful as diesel fuel or as a component of diesel fuel, from a mixture of a biological origin containing esters of fatty acids and, optionally, aliquots of free fatty acids. The process comprises the contemporaneous hydrodeoxygenation and hydroisomerization of the mixture of a biological origin, with the formation of linear and branched paraffins. The process is carried out in the presence of a catalytic composition comprising an amorphous carrier of an acidic nature and a metallic component containing one or more metals of group VIII.
US08581012B2 Processes for the production of chlorinated and/or fluorinated propenes and higher alkenes
The present invention provides continuous, gas phase, free radical processes for the production of chlorinated and/or fluorinated propenes or higher alkenes from the reaction of chlorinated and/or fluorinated alkanes and chlorinated and/or fluorinated alkenes, wherein wherein at least a portion of any intermediate boiler by-products generated by the process are removed from the process.
US08581011B2 Process for the production of chlorinated and/or fluorinated propenes
The present invention provides one-step processes for the production of chlorinated and/or fluorinated propenes. The processes provide good product yield with low, e.g., less than about 20%, or even less than 10%, concentrations of residues/by-products. Advantageously, the processes may be conducted at low temperatures than 500° C. so that energy savings are provided, and/or at higher pressures so that high throughputs may also be realized. The use of catalysts or initiators may provide additional enhancements to conversion rates and selectivity, as may adjustments to the molar ratio of the reactants.
US08581007B2 Use of steam to reduce coking and/or metal dusting
The invention is directed towards the reduction of coke formation in furnaces.
US08581005B2 Mitochondrial inhibitors to treat human disease
The present invention relates to inhibitors of mitochondria-associated, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor signaling molecule (Magmas), and related compositions and uses thereof.
US08581001B2 Metformin-cysteine prodrug
A metformin-cysteine prodrug. It is believed that the prodrug of the present invention will transport in the LAT1 and LAT2 transporter system. Because the LAT1 and LAT2 transporters are important and effective transporters of amino acids in both the small intestine and colon, it is believed that the LAT-transportable prodrugs of the present invention will be effectively absorbed both in small intestine and in the colon. The increased absorption window provided by the present invention should result in highly sustained plasma concentrations of metformin, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the medication and allowing for a single daily dose.
US08580997B2 Process for preparing R-beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives
Disclosed is a process for preparing single enantiomers of beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, which affords the desired compounds having special optical configuration. The process comprises a step of chemical synthesis and a step of resolving the optical isomers of beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives with a resolving agent. The resolving step comprises reacting the optical isomers with resolving agents, such as di-para-toluoyl-L-tartaric acid and di-para-toluoyl-D-tartaric acid. The obtained R-beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives (I) have high optical purity, and the total yield of the accumulative resolution of the laevo and the dextro isomer is up to above 70%.
US08580996B2 Aromatic carbonate, method of preparing the same, and polycarbonate prepared using the same
A method of preparing aromatic carbonate from dialkyl carbonate includes reacting an aromatic hydroxyl compound and dialkyl carbonate in the presence of at least one type of samarium-containing catalyst represented by Formula 1, Formula 2, or a combination thereof: SmX3  [Formula 1] wherein each X is the same or different and is independently C1 to C10 alkoxy, C1 to C10 alkyl phenoxy or phenoxy, and wherein R1 and R2 are the same or different and are independently hydrogen or C1 to C6 alkyl.
US08580995B2 Lysine-based prodrugs of aspartyl protease inhibitors and processes for their preparation
The present invention provides processes for synthesizing lysine based compounds of the formula; wherein R1 may be, for example, (HO)2P(O)—, (NaO)2P(O)—, wherein X may be, for example, NH2, Y may be H, F, Cl, or Br, and wherein n, X′, Y′, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 are as defined herein.
US08580994B2 Process for the preparation of haloalkylalkoxysilanes and haloalkylhalosilanes
This invention involves a process for the preparation of haloalkylalkoxysilanes and haloalkylhalosilancs. The process comprises reacting an alkoxyhydridosilane or a halohydridosilanc silane with an alkenylhalide compound in the presence of a catalytic amount of an iridium containing catalyst. When a halohydridosilane is the silane reactant. The resulting haloalkylhalosilane may be alkoxylated by reaction with a C1-C6, alcohol. In another aspect of the invention, the reacting is conducted under a reduced oxygen atmosphere to improve the catalyst activity and the yield of the resulting haloalkylhalosilane or haloalkylalkox vsi lane.
US08580992B1 Compounds and methods of arylmethylation (benzylation) as protection for alcohol groups during chemical synthesis
A process for benzylating an alcohol includes mixing 2-benzyloxy-1-methylpyridinium triflate in an aromatic hydrocarbon solvent having a predetermined boiling point; adding an acid scavenger to the mixture; combining the alcohol to be benzylated with the mixture; reacting the alcohol with the 2-benzyloxy-1-methylpyridinium triflate by heating above ambient temperature to generate the benzylated alcohol; and separating the benzylated alcohol from the mixture.
US08580991B2 Aluminium complexes and use thereof as a catalyst in intramolecular ring closure reactions
To provide a process for increasing the proportion of an optical isomer of not only a compound having a closed ring but also a compound not having a closed ring when an optical isomer mixture of a compound having both a formyl group and a double bond capable of causing a carbonyl-ene ring closing reaction in the same molecule is subjected to a ring closing reaction. A process for increasing the proportion of an optical isomer characterized by subjecting an optical isomer mixture of a compound having both a formyl group and a double bond capable of causing a carbonyl-ene ring closing reaction in the same molecule to a ring closing reaction in the presence of a predetermined aluminum complex represented by the general formula: [Al2(L1)n(L2)3-n]m.
US08580988B2 Blown and stripped plant-based oils
A method for producing a high viscosity, low volatiles blown stripped plant-based oil is provided. The method may include the steps of: (i) obtaining a plant-based oil; (ii) heating the oil to at least 90° C.; (iii) passing air through the heated oil to produce a blown oil having a viscosity of at least 50 cSt at 40° C.; (iv) stripping the blown oil from step (iii) to reduce an acid value of the blown oil to from 5 mg KOH/g to about 9 mg KOH/g; (v) adding a polyol to the stripped oil from (iv); and (vi) stripping the oil from step (v) to reduce the acid value of the oil to less than 5.0 mg KOH/g or less.
US08580983B2 Steroids having increased water solubility and resistance against metabolism, and methods for their production
Steroid compounds having increased resistance against metabolism and increased water solubility are disclosed, together with methods for their production. These substances are suitable for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of steroid related or steroid induced CNS disorders and for use in methods of prevention, alleviation or treatment of such disorders.
US08580982B2 Use of structured catalyst beds for preparing ethylene oxide
The present invention relates to a process for preparing ethylene oxide by reaction of ethylene with oxygen in the presence of at least one silver-comprising catalyst, wherein the reaction takes place in a reactor which has a catalyst packed bed having at least two zones (i) and (ii) and the silver content of the catalyst in zone (i) is lower than the silver content of the catalyst in zone (ii). The catalyst packed bed preferably has a further zone (a) with which the reaction mixture comes into contact before the zones (i) and (ii). According to the invention, the silver content of the catalyst in the zone (a) is higher than the silver content of the catalyst in zone (i).
US08580980B2 Organic compound, light-emitting element, light-emitting device, electronic device, and lighting device
Provided is a novel anthracene compound represented by a general formula (G1). In the formula, Q1 represents an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom, R1 to R7 and R11 to R14 separately represent any one of a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted biphenyl group. In addition, α1 to α3 separately represent a substituted or unsubstituted phenylene group. Ar1 represents a substituted or unsubstituted condensed aromatic hydrocarbon having 6 to 12 carbon atoms forming a ring. Ar2 represents any one of a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 12 carbon atoms forming a ring, a substituted or unsubstituted dibenzothiophen-2-yl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted dibenzofuran-2-yl group. Further, j and k are separately 0 or 1.
US08580978B2 Process for preparing a hydroxyacid or hydroxyester
A process for preparing a hydroxyacid or hydroxyester from a reactant selected from (a) a carboxylic acid having an aldehyde or keto group; and (b) an ester of a carboxylic acid having an aldehyde or keto group; by contacting the reactant with a metal catalyst in the presence of hydrogen, wherein the metal catalyst is supported on a titanium dioxide or zirconium dioxide support.
US08580975B2 Synthesis of macrocyclic cancer chemotherapy agents and methods of use
Herein are described a process for forming a quaternary carbon useful in the preparation of macrolactones, an enantioselective synthesis of (+)-peloruside A, and methods for treating a patient in need of relief from cancer or a cancer-related disease. The described processes are useful for preparing compounds containing quaternary carbons, including structural analogs and derivatives of peloruside A.
US08580974B2 Processes
The invention relates to a new process for producing NEP inhibitors or prodrugs thereof, in particular NEP inhibitors comprising a γ-amino-δ-biphenyl-α-methylalkanoic acid, or acid ester, backbone. In detail, the new processes, according to the present invention, are ultimately related to the synthesis of intermediates to prepare the above NEP inhibitors, namely compounds according to formula (1), or salt thereof, wherein R1 and R2 are, independently of each other, hydrogen or a nitrogen protecting group, and R3 is a carboxyl group or an ester group, preferably carboxyl group or alkyl ester.
US08580970B2 Copper-catalysed ligation of azides and acetylenes
A copper catalyzed click chemistry ligation process is employed to bind azides and terminal acetylenes to provide 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole triazoles. The process comprises contacting an organic azide and a terminal alkyne with a source of reactive Cu(I) ion for a time sufficient to form by cycloaddition a 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole. The source of reactive Cu(I) ion can be, for example, a Cu(I) salt or copper metal. The process is preferably carried out in a solvent, such as an aqueous alcohol. Optionally, the process can be performed in a solvent that comprises a ligand for Cu(I) and an amine.
US08580969B2 Synthesis of enone intermediate
The tetracycline class of antibiotics has played a major role in the treatment of infectious diseases for the past 50 years. However, the increased use of the tetracyclines in human and veterinary medicine has led to resistance among many organisms previously susceptible to tetracycline antibiotics. The recent development of a modular synthesis of tetracycline analogs through a chiral enone intermediate has allowed for the efficient synthesis of novel tetracycline analogs never prepared before. The present invention provides a more efficient route for preparing the enone intermediate.
US08580967B2 Methyl 3-(benzyloxy)-1-(2,2-dihydroxyethyl)-4-oxo-1,4-dihydropyridine-2-carboxylate and processes for the preparation thereof
The present invention features compounds that are prodrugs of HIV integrase inhibitors and therefore are useful in the delivery of compounds for the inhibition of HIV replication, the prevention and/or treatment of infection by HIV, and in the treatment of AIDS and/or ARC. For example, the present invention includes methyl 3-(benzyloxy)-1-(2,2-dihydroxyethyl)-4-oxo-1,4-dihydropyridine-2 -carboxylate of the formula P-8: and processes for the preparation thereof.
US08580961B2 2-phenyl-6-azolylpyridine-based ligand and group VIII transition metal complex
A 2-phenyl-6-azolylpyridine-based ligand is represented by the following formula (I): wherein, X represents nitrogen or C—R10; R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8 and R10 independently represent hydrogen, halogen, a cyano group, an amino group, an optionally substituted aryl group, an optionally substituted heteroaryl group, sulfate, —COOH, an alkoxy group, a carbonyl group, a C1-C10 haloalkyl group, a C1-C12 alkyl group, a C2-C10 alkenyl group, a C2-C10 alkynyl group, a C3-C20 cycloalkyl group, a C3-C20 cycloalkenyl group, a C1-C20 heterocycloalkyl group, or a C1-C20 heterocycloalkenyl group; and R9 represents hydrogen or alkali metal.
US08580954B2 Formulations of low dose diclofenac and beta-cyclodextrin
The present invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition containing a unit dose of a diclofenac compound effective to induce analgesia; and a beta-cyclodextrin compound; wherein the dose of the diclofenac compound is less than 10 mg. The present invention is also directed to methods of treating a subject in need of analgesia with the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention.
US08580945B2 Oligonucleotides for use in allele-specific PCR
The present invention relates to oligonucleotides complementary to a target polynucleotide, wherein the oligonucleotide comprises an LNA unit, a mismatch nucleobase, and an allele-specific nucleobase corresponding to an allele of the target polynucleotide. The invention further includes methods of using such oligonucleotides to detect and quantitate the frequency of particular alleles of a target polynucleotide.
US08580943B2 Chimeric promoters capable of mediating gene expression in plants upon pathogen infection and uses thereof
Described are synthetic promoters capable of mediating gene expression in plants upon pathogen infection. Furthermore, recombinant genes and vectors comprising said chimeric promoters as well as host cells transformed with such chimeric promoters, recombinant genes, or vectors are provided. Additionally, diagnostic compositions and kits comprising such chimeric promoters, recombinant genes, vectors or cells are described. Provided are further methods for the identification of compounds being capable of activating or inhibiting genes that are specifically expressed in plants upon pathogen infection employing the above described means. Furthermore, transgenic plant cells, plant tissue, and plants containing the above-described chimeric promoters, recombinant genes, and vectors as well as the use of the aforementioned chimeric promoters, recombinant genes, vectors and/or compounds identified by the method of the invention in plant cell and tissue culture, plant breeding, and/or agriculture are described.
US08580937B2 cDNA-derived nucleic acids encoding red-shifted channelrhodopsins
Methods and compositions are used to identify and characterize new channelrhodopsins derived from algae and several of which are red-shifted. The rhodopsin domain of these red-shifted channelrhodopsins can be cloned and expressed in mammalian systems and used in optogenetic applications and as therapeutic agents. Also provided are methods and compositions for use in red-shifting the absorbance maxima of channelrhodopsins in order to improve their utility for use in vivo.
US08580931B2 Method for the purification of alpha-1-antitrypsin
The invention relates to methods for the isolation of AAT from solutions containing albumin and AAT using at least two separate metal chelate chromatography steps. The product may be further purified and/or subjected to one or more virus inactivation or reduction steps. The isolated AAT may then be formulated for pharmaceutical use.
US08580928B2 CDR-repaired antibodies
The present application concerns restoring antigen binding during humanization of antibodies through the selection of repaired hypervariable regions rather than through framework changes.
US08580924B2 Templated native silk smectic gels
One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of preparing a fibrous protein smectic hydrogel by way of a solvent templating process, comprising the steps of pouring an aqueous fibrous protein solution into a container comprising a solvent that is not miscible with water; sealing the container and allowing it to age at about room temperature; and collecting the resulting fibrous protein smectic hydrogel and allowing it to dry. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of obtaining predominantly one enantiomer from a racemic mixture, comprising the steps of pouring an aqueous fibrous protein solution into a container comprising a solvent that is not miscible with water; sealing the container and allowing it to age at about room temperature; allowing the enantiomers of racemic mixture to diffuse selectively into the smectic hydrogel in solution; removing the smectic hydrogel from the solution; rinsing predominantly one enantiomer from the surface of the smectic hydrogel; and extracting predominantly one enantiomer from the interior of the smectic hydrogel. The present invention also relates to a smectic hydrogel prepared according to an aforementioned method.
US08580921B2 Protein nanorings
The invention provides protein nanorings.
US08580920B2 Peptides useful for skin lightening
The present invention relates to novel peptides and to topical and food compositions comprising them. The novel peptides have applications in skin lightening and immunomodulation when applied topically and to immunomodulation and modulation of body mass when consumed in food compositions.
US08580917B2 Method of purifying block copolymers
The invention relates to block polymers, for example, arborescent copolymer compounds, and to methods of making and purifying such compounds. In one embodiment, the invention relates to arborescent polymer compounds that contain one or more styrene polymeric blocks in combination with one or more isobutylene polymeric blocks. In another embodiment, the invention relates to methods for purifying arborescent polymer compounds that contain at least one styrene polymeric block in combination with at least one isobutylene polymeric block.
US08580913B2 Polyimide resin
A polyimide resin which is satisfactory in solvent solubility and heat resistance, has a low coefficient of water absorption and is excellent in adhesive properties and a method for manufacturing the same, a film containing the subject polyimide resin and a metal-clad laminate including an adhesive layer composed of the subject polyimide resin are provided.The polyimide resin is a polyimide resin containing a molecule having a repeating unit represented by a structure of any one of the following formulae (1) to (3) in a specified proportion, whose molecular end is capped by an end-capping agent.
US08580912B2 Biodegradable nitric oxide generating polymers and related biomedical devices
Disclosed herein is a biodegradable nitric oxide-generating polymer comprising a nitric oxide-releasing N2O2− (NONOate) functional group. The polymer can be applied to various medical devices for the treatment of various diseases such as thrombosis and restenosis.
US08580903B2 Flame retardant, production method therefor, and flame retardant thermoplastic resin composition comprising the same
The aim is to provide a flame retardant for thermoplastic resins that has a high flame-retardant imparting effect, and that produces a thermoplastic resin composition with superior moldability and workability that does not easily bleed out and a molded body with superior resistance to heat-moisture and chemicals; and a flame retardant for thermoplastic resins that has a high flame-retardant imparting effect, and that produces a flame retardant with a heat resistance to working temperatures of 300° C. or higher and a molded body with superior resistance to reflow heat and chemicals. Disclosed is a flame retardant, which is a specific flame retardant for thermoplastic resins comprising the reaction product of a nitrogen-containing compound and a phosphorous-containing compound, that is insoluble in toluene and comprises in the range of 5 to 10 wt % of phosphorus atoms. The aforementioned flame retardant may have a weight average molecular weight (Mw) in the range of 2,000 to 10,000, or may have a ratio of at least 1 wt % of crosslinking components within the flame retardant components.
US08580897B2 Crosslinked fluoropolymer networks
Disclosed herein is a crosslinked fluoropolymer network formed by the free radical initiated crosslinking of a diacrylate fluoropolymer. The diacrylate copolymer is of formula CH2═CR′COO—(CH2)n—R—(CH2)n—OOCR′═CH2, wherein R is selected from the group consisting of i) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of vinylidene fluoride and perfluoro(methyl vinyl ether), ii) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of vinylidene fluoride and hexafluoropropylene, iii) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of tetrafluoroethylene and perfluoro(methyl vinyl ether), and iv) an oligomer comprising copolymerized units of tetrafluoroethylene and a hydrocarbon olefin, R′ is H or —CH3, n is 1-4 and wherein said oligomer has a number average molecular weight of 1000 to 25,000 daltons. The source of the free radicals may be a photoinitiator or an organic peroxide.
US08580888B2 Two-part, cyanoacrylate/cationically curable adhesive systems
Two part cyanoacrylate/cationically curable adhesive systems are provided, which contain vinyl ethers.
US08580887B2 High-functionality polyisocyanates containing urethane groups
The present invention relates to new, urethane-group-containing polyisocyanates based on aliphatic and/or cycloaliphatic diisocyanates, and to their use.
US08580879B2 Resin composition of high thermal conductivity and high glass transition temperature (Tg) and for use with PCB, and prepreg and coating thereof
A resin composition includes solid brominated epoxy resin of 20-70 wt %, a hardener of 1-10 wt %, a promoter of 0.1-10 wt %, inorganic powder of 0.01-20 wt %, high thermal conductivity powder of 5-85 wt % closest packed by Horsfield packing model and a processing aid of 0-10 wt %; the resin composition possesses high glass transition temperature ranged from 169° C. to 235° C. measured by DSC, high thermal conductivity ranged from 5.7 W/m·K to 14.2 W/m·K, and excellent heat resistance as well as flame retardancy. The resin composition, which acts as a dielectric layer of a printed circuit board so as to endow the PCB with high thermal conductivity, is a high thermal conductivity prepreg formed by retting or a high thermal conductivity coating formed by coating. As a result, prompt dissipation of heat generated by electronic components on the PCB is achievable so that service life and stability of the electronic components are improved.
US08580878B2 Radiation-curable printing ink or printing varnish
The invention relates to a printing ink or printing varnish containing non-radiation-curable, preferably aromatic polycarbonate, in particular as a binder and adhesive component. According to the invention, the polycarbonate is provided with radiation-curable monomers, in particular is dissolved therein.
US08580871B2 Epoxy systems and amine polymer systems and methods for making the same
Compositions and methods for forming surfactants, aqueous dispersions, and curing agents are provided. In one aspect, the invention relates to improved epoxy functional surfactants prepared by reaction of an epoxy composition and an amidoamine composition formed from a blend of acid-terminated polyoxyalkylene polyols. The improved epoxy functional surfactants may be reacted with an excess of epoxy composition and water to result in an aqueous dispersion. The amidoamone composition may be a reaction mixture of a diamine compound and an acid terminated polyoxyalkylene composition formed from two or more polyoxyalkylene polyol compounds. The epoxy functional surfactant may be reacted with amine compounds to form a compound suitable as a curing agent.
US08580870B2 Manufacturing methods for the production of carbon materials
The present application is generally directed to activated carbon materials and methods for making the same. The disclosed methods comprise rapidly freezing synthetically prepared polymer gel particles. The methods further comprise drying, pyrolyzing, and activating steps to obtain an activated carbon material of high porosity. The disclosed methods represent viable manufacturing processes for the preparation of activated carbon materials.
US08580868B2 Water-based ink composition, ink set and image forming method
The invention provides a water-based ink composition including: a water-based medium, a colored particle containing a pigment and a water-insoluble polymer dispersant, and a self-dispersing polymer particle including a hydrophilic constituent unit, and a hydrophobic constituent unit derived from alicyclic (meth)acrylate, as well as an ink set comprising the water-based ink composition, and an image forming method using the aqueaous ink composition or the ink set.
US08580867B2 Vulcanizable rubber mixture and rubber products comprising the same
The vulcanizable rubber mixture according to this invention is used for rubber products in particular vehicle tires and vehicle tire treads, but also technical rubber products like belts on conveyor systems, technical hoses, vibration dampers and impact dampers, or wire coatings. All these products benefit from the improved processability that is achieved with the invention in that the mixture comprises a polymer represented by the formula F1-A-F2, or a mixture of F1-A-F2 with an astral or radial coupling product of F1-A-units, coupled by a multivalent coupling agent; wherein F1 represents a terminal functionalization of the polymeric chain, F2 represents a terminal functionalization different from F1; and A represents the polymeric chain of a polymer formed by the copolymerization between one or more conjugated dienes with one or more aromatic vinyl monomers.
US08580864B2 Trimer catalysts with improved processability and surface cure
The present invention provides trimerization catalyst compositions having an α,β-unsaturated carboxylate salt and methods to produce a polyisocyanurate/polyurethane foam using such trimerization catalyst compositions.
US08580863B2 Soft foam, molded product, and shock absorber comprising the molded product
To provide a foam-molded product which is light-weight and superior in formability, flexibility and shock absorbing capacity, and which exhibits favorable tactile impression and excellent safety, as well as a shock absorber using the same that provides favorable feel in wearing.Means for Resolution: When a foam-molded product is used which is produced by including foamed resin particles in a soft resin obtained from a silicone based polymer, as a base resin, produced by curing a liquid resin composition including: (A) a curing agent having at least two hydrosilyl groups in the molecular chain; (B) a polymer which has at least one alkenyl group in the molecular chain, comprises a saturated hydrocarbon unit or an oxyalkylene unit as a repeating unit that constitutes the main chain, and is a linear polymer having a number average molecular weight of no lower than 10,000; and (C) a hydrosilylation catalyst, the product can be suitably used in garments to which it is attached as a shock absorber at an appropriate site such as the front body, the flank part, the back body and the hip around the lumbar.
US08580862B2 Continuous process for polymerization and emulsification of siloxane
A method and apparatus for making silicone-in-water emulsions comprising high viscosity silicone polymers is provided. In various aspects, polyorganosiloxanes are polymerized into high viscosity silicone polymers then emulsified in a continuous process, wherein the process is carried out using a single apparatus. In some aspects, the provided apparatus is an extruder for polymerizing polyorganosiloxanes into high viscosity silicone polymers and then emulsifying such polymers.
US08580856B2 Acetaminophen/ibuprofen combinations and method for their use
A pharmaceutical dosage form is provided comprising a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent and acetaminophen, and methods for their use. In one embodiment, the dosage form is comprised of ibuprofen and acetaminophen as the sole pharmaceutically effective agents, wherein the ibuprofen and acetaminophen are in a weight ratio of about 12 parts:about 88 parts.
US08580851B2 Ophthalmic solution
The present invention relates to an ophthalmic solution comprising a prostaglandin compound and viscosity-increasing compound. The ophthalmic solution of the invention is excellent in stability and can provide long lasting and increased effect when administrated topically to the eyes of a patient.
US08580850B2 Anhydrous and hemihydrate crystalline forms of an (R)-baclofen prodrug, methods of synthesis and methods of use
Crystalline (3R)-4-{[(1S)-2-methyl-1-(2-methylpropanoyloxy)propoxy]carbonylamino}-3-(4-chlorophenyl)butanoic acid anhydrate and crystalline (3R)-4-{[(1S)-2-methyl-1-(2-methylpropanoyloxy)propoxy]carbonylamino}-3-(4-chlorophenyl)butanoic acid hemihydrate, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, methods of making and methods of using the same are disclosed.
US08580844B2 Use of inhibitors of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase in combination with other therapeutic modalities
The present invention provides improved treatment methods by the administration of both an inhibitor of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase in addition to the administration of an additional therapeutic agent.
US08580835B2 Solid forms of a microbiocide
The present invention relates to novel solid forms of 3-difluoromethyl-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid (9-isopropyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1,4-methano-naphthalen-5-yl)-amide, such as crystal modifications and hydrates, compositions comprising these novel solid forms and to the use thereof in the control of disease infestation in cultivated plants.
US08580834B2 Small molecule modulators of hepatocyte growth factor (scatter factor) activity
The present invention provides compounds having formula (I): and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof, wherein R1, R2 and B are as described generally and in classes and subclasses herein, and additionally provides pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for the use thereof for the treatment of any of a number of conditions or diseases in which HGF/SF or the activities thereof, or agonists or antagonists thereof have a therapeutically useful role.
US08580831B2 Fluorinated aminotriazole derivatives
The invention relates to fluorinated aminotriazole derivatives of formula (I), wherein A, R1 and R2 are as defined in the description, their preparation and their use as pharmaceutically active compounds.
US08580828B2 Mitotic kinesin inhibitors and methods of use thereof
This invention relates to inhibitors of mitotic kinesins, particularly KSP, and methods for producing these inhibitors. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the inhibitors of the invention and methods of utilizing the inhibitors and pharmaceutical compositions in the treatment and prevention of various disorders.
US08580826B2 Hydroxybenzoate salts of metanicotine compounds
Patients susceptible to or suffering from conditions and disorders, such as central nervous system disorders, are treated by administering to a patient in need thereof compositions that are hydroxybenzoate salts of E-metanicotine-type compounds. The formation of hydroxybenzoate salts of the E-metanicotine compounds is also useful in purifying the E-metanicotine compounds, as the hydroxybenzoate salts tend to crystallize out, leaving impurities such as Z-metanicotine compounds, and compounds where the double bond has migrated, in solution. If desired, the hydroxybenzoate salts can be converted to either the free base (the E-metanicotine) or to another pharmaceutically acceptable salt form.
US08580822B2 Compositions, synthesis, and methods of using indanone based cholinesterase inhibitors
The present invention provides novel indanone derivatives which can be advantageously used for treating and/or preventing of a medical condition for which inhibition of a cholinesterase is desired.
US08580821B2 Serotonin transporter (SERT) inhibitors for the treatment of depression and anxiety
The present invention relates to trans-derivatives of formula wherein R1, R2, R3, and the dotted line are as defined herein and to pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts thereof. The compounds of formula I are good inhibitors of the serotonin transporter (SERT inhibitors) and simultaneously, they have good activity on the NK-1 receptor (dual effect). By virtue of their efficacy as SERT inhibitors, the compounds in the present invention are particularly useful for the treatment of CNS disorders and psychotic disorders, in particular in the treatment or prevention of depressive states and/or in the treatment of anxiety.
US08580818B2 Combination drug containing probucol and a tetrazolylalkoxy-dihydrocarbostyril derivative with superoxide supressant effects
This invention relates to a combination drug comprising a combination of a tetrazolylalkoxy-dihydrocarbostyril derivative of the formula: wherein R is cycloalkyl, A is lower alkylene, and the bond between 3- and 4-positions of carbostyril nucleus is single bond or double bond, or a salt thereof and Probucol, which is useful for preventing and treating cerebral infarction including acute cerebral infarction and chronic cerebral infarction, arteriosclerosis, renal diseases (e.g. diabetic nephropathy, renal failure, nephritis), and diabetes owing to synergistic superoxide suppressant effects of the combination.
US08580798B2 Substituted pyrimidine derivatives useful in the treatment of cancer and other disorders
Substituted pyrimidine derivatives of formula (I), salts, metabolites, prodrugs and diastereoisomeric forms (both isolated stereoisomers and mixtures of stereoisomers) thereof (wherein A=pyrimidine) pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds and the use of those compounds or compositions for treating hyper-proliferative and angiogenesis disorders, as a sole agent or in combination with other active ingredients, e.g., cytotoxic therapies.
US08580797B2 Compounds
The invention is directed to certain novel compounds. Specifically, the invention is directed to compounds of formula (I): and salts thereof. The compounds of the invention are inhibitors of kinase activity, in particular PI3-kinase activity.
US08580793B2 Use of kinase inhibitor for the treatment of thymoma
The invention provides a low molecular weight ATP-competitive CDK inhibitor and TRKA inhibitor of formula (I) for use in the treatment of thymoma and thymic carcinoma. The compound can be administered together with one or more cytotoxic or cytostatic agents.
US08580788B2 Opioid antagonists
Certain quinolizidine and octahydropyridopyrazine compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of their use, inter alia, as opioid receptor antagonists are disclosed.
US08580787B2 Compositions and methods for reducing activation of alpha-1 receptors
The invention generally relates to compositions and methods for reducing activation of a-1 adrenergic receptors. The compositions comprise highly selective a-2 adrenergic receptor agonists, at low concentrations, such as below 0.05% weight by volume. The compositions preferably comprise brimonidine. The compositions preferably have pH between about 5.5 and about 6.5.
US08580786B2 Triazine derivatives and their therapeutical applications
The invention provides for Triazine derivatives and their use to modulate protein kinase activity in a variety of conditions and diseases.
US08580781B2 Pyridazinone derivatives
Compounds of the formula (I), in which R1, R2, R3, R4, R4′ have the meanings indicated in claim 1, are inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, in particular Met kinase, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of tumors.
US08580775B2 Use of derivatives of sinapinic acid and compositions comprising such derivatives
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. The invention furthermore relates to specific substances.
US08580772B2 Combination therapies using melengestrol acetate and zilpaterol or its salts
This invention generally relates to a method for promoting growth and increasing feed utilization efficiency in animals, and, more specifically, to combinations comprising zilpaterol (and salts thereof) and melengestrol acetate. Included within this invention are treatment methods comprising the administration of such combinations to animals, compositions comprising such combinations, uses of such combinations to prepare medicaments, and kits for using such combinations.
US08580771B2 Dosage form for hormonal contraception
A dosage form for hormonal contraception containing a given number of hormone-containing daily units and a given number of hormone-free daily units for daily, oral administration, where the hormone-containing daily units each contain at most the minimum effective daily amount of folic acid for women and the hormone-free daily units contain at least a multiple of this amount up to the maximum permissible amount of folic acid for women.
US08580768B2 Cannabinoid receptor antagonists-inverse agonists useful for treating metabolic disorders, including obesity and diabetes
The present invention provides novel pyrazolines that are useful as cannabinoid receptor blockers and pharmaceutical compositions thereof and methods of using the same for treating obesity, diabetes, inflammatory disorders, cardiometabolic disorders, hepatic disorders, and/or cancers.
US08580765B2 Nucleoside phosphoramidate prodrugs
Disclosed herein are phosphoramidate prodrugs of nucleoside derivatives for the treatment of viral infections in mammals, which is a compound, its stereoisomer, salt (acid or basic addition salt), hydrate, solvate, or crystalline form thereof, represented by the following structure: Also disclosed are methods of treatment, uses, and processes for preparing each of which utilize the compound represented by formula I.
US08580760B2 Aptamer capable of binding to viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus
A pharmaceutical and a method for preventing and treating VHSV infection in fish with a VHSV-binding aptamer is provided. Also provided are a method for removing VHSV from an area of water and a method and kit for detecting VHSV with high sensitivity using a VHSV-binding aptamer.
US08580758B2 Method of inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, proliferation inhibitor and screening method
The present invention provides a method of inhibiting cancer cell proliferation by suppressing a function of ZNF143, a cancer cell proliferation inhibitor containing as an active ingredient a substance capable of inhibiting a function of ZNF143, like a ZNF143-specific siRNA, a prophylactic and/or therapeutic drug for cancer, a method of detecting cancer cells, a diagnostic reagent for cancer, a vector and transformant cell incorporating the vector, and a screening method for a substance possessing cancer cell proliferation inhibitory activity with the amount of inhibition of the binding of ZNF143 protein as an index.
US08580756B2 Short oligomer antagonist compounds for the modulation of target mRNA
The invention provides LNA gapmer oligomers of between 10-20 nucleobases in length, which have a total of 1-3 phosphodiester internucleoside linkages. Such oligomers have been found to have superior bioavailability and have also been found to selectively accumulate in kidney cells.
US08580754B2 Genetic inhibition by double-stranded RNA
A process is provided of introducing an RNA into a living cell to inhibit gene expression of a target gene in that cell. The process may be practiced ex vivo or in vivo. The RNA has a region with double-stranded structure. Inhibition is sequence-specific in that the nucleotide sequences of the duplex region of the RNA and of a portion of the target gene are identical. The present invention is distinguished from prior art interference in gene expression by antisense or triple-strand methods.
US08580753B2 Modulation of telomere length in telomerase positive cells and cancer therapy
Induction of telomere shortening, G2 arrest and apoptosis in telomerase positive cancer cells using acyclic nucleoside analogs has been disclosed. In addition, methods for impairment or prevention of tumorigenic telomerase positive cells from having a chance to grow into a tumor and methods for promoting tumor regression (decrease in size of an established tumor) using acyclic nucleoside analogs has been disclosed.
US08580752B2 Aromatic amides as potentiators of bioefficacy of anti-infective drugs
The present invention relates to an aromatic substituted pentadienoic acid amides and there use in combination of specific amounts of aromatic amides i.e. 4-alkyl-5-(substituted phenyl)-2(E),4(E)-pentadienoic acid amides, its geometrical isomers or their dihydro or tetrahydro derivatives and an anti-infective drug useful in potentiating the bioefficacy of antiinfective drug. The combination of the present invention is useful in the treatment of certain infections and disease at lower concentration of anti-infectives necessary to inhibit the growth of microbial strains and may also find applications in reducing the resistance in microorganisms.
US08580749B2 Peptide-coated cell localization to diseased or damaged tissues and methods related thereto
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a coated cell comprising a therapeutic cell and a plurality of targeting complexes coating the therapeutic cell and each of said targeting complexes comprising a homing molecule, a lipid moiety, and a spacer having from about 1 to about 10 amino acids and covalently linking the homing molecule to the lipid moiety and wherein the lipid moiety is non-covalently attached to the therapeutic cell. In some embodiments, the therapeutic cell is a stem cell. Embodiments of the invention are directed to methods of coating a therapeutic cell. Embodiments of the invention are directed to methods of treating diseases of the vasculature.
US08580747B2 Cyclic natriuretic peptide constructs
Cyclic constructs with an N-terminus and a C-terminus which bind to a natriuretic peptide receptor and include a plurality of amino acid residues, at least one amino acid surrogate of formula I: where R, R′, Q, Y, W, Z, J, x and n are as defined in the specification, and optionally at least one prosthetic group, pharmaceutical compositions including such cyclic constructs, and methods of treating congestive heart failure or other conditions, syndromes or diseases for which induction of anti-hypertensive, cardiovascular, renal or endocrine effects are desired.
US08580746B2 Amide linkage cyclic natriuretic peptide constructs
Cyclic constructs which bind to a natriuretic peptide receptor and include a plurality of amino acid residues, at least one amino acid surrogate of formula I: where R, R′, Q, Y, W, Z, J, x and n are as defined in the specification, and a cyclic linkage including one or two amide bonds, pharmaceutical compositions including such cyclic constructs, and methods of treating congestive heart failure or other conditions, syndromes or diseases for which induction of anti-hypertensive, cardiovascular, renal or endocrine effects are desired.
US08580743B2 Modified galectin 9 proteins and methods of treatment using them
A recombinant galectin 9 (rGal 9) is provided which exhibits an immune system-mediated action and a direct action on tumor cells (i.e., activity of inducing the intercellular adhesion and apoptosis of the tumor cells), thereby potent in inducing the inhibition of cancer metastasis and reduction. Moreover, the rGal 9 exerts no efficacy on non-activated lymphocytes but can induce apoptosis in activated T cells, in particular, CD4-positive T cells causing an excessive immune response.
US08580741B2 Cosmetic compositions for skin-tightening and method of skin-tightening using the same
The present invention relates to a skin-tightening cosmetic composition and a method of applying the same, and more specifically, to a cosmetic composition a method of applying the same that includes a hydrolyzed plant protein and glycoprotein. The cosmetic composition includes a hydrolyzed plant protein and glycoprotein in an optimal amount, thereby causing the occurrence of an immediate contraction effect and a long-lasting contracting effect, and achieving skin improvements such as skin moisturizing and induction of synthesizing collagen and elastine in use of the composition over a long period of time.
US08580740B2 Bone resorption inhibitory food material for inhibiting bone resorption
A milk protein fraction having following properties (1) to (4) is excellent in bone resorption inhibitory effect, and is useful for preventing or treating bone diseases: (1) the milk protein fraction is derived from milk; (2) the milk protein fraction is a fraction containing a protein having a molecular weight of 12,000 to 16,000 Daltons; (3) the milk protein fraction has a basic amino acid content of 18 to 20 wt % in the constitutional amino acid composition, and the ratio of the amount of a basic amino acid(s) to the amount of an acidic amino acid(s) is 0.7 to 0.9; and (4) the milk protein fraction has a bone resorption inhibitory effect.
US08580738B2 Methods for treatment of reperfusion injury and other cardiac conditions
The present invention discloses methods to prevent and treat cardiovascular disorders, hi certain aspects the methods are drawn to releasing endogenous calcitonin-gene related peptide from intrinsic cardiac adrenergic cells within the heart. In further aspects, a combination of a β2 adrenergic receptor agonist (β2-AR agonist) and a vasodilator can be used in treating reperfusion injury.
US08580735B2 Local complement inhibition for treatment of complement-mediated disorders
The present invention features the local administration of complement inhibitors for treatment of complement-mediated disorders. In certain embodiments the invention features inhibiting activation of one or more locally produced complement proteins. The invention provides sustained release formulations and devices comprising a complement inhibitor and methods of use thereof.
US08580733B2 Site-specific monoconjugated insulinotropic GLP-1 peptides
The present invention is related to glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and analogues insulinotropic peptides, monoconjugated to biocompatible polymeric molecules by enzymatic direct and site-specific transglutamination reaction as well as their pharmaceutical formulations and delivery systems for therapeutical application in dismetabolic pathologies such as type 2 diabetes.
US08580732B2 Peptide therapy for hyperglycemia
Methods of modulating blood glucose levels treating hyperglycemia and related complications and conditions by administration of a VGF biomolecule to a patient in need of such treatment are provided. Methods of enhancing insulin secretion from islet beta cells in a mammal exhibiting reduced insulin secretion by administration of a therapeutically effective amount of a VGF biomolecule are also provided.
US08580728B2 Use of fragrance compositions for the prevention of the development of indole base malodours from fecal and urine based soils
The use of fragrance compositions comprising fragrance compounds selected among: aldehydes, α,β-unsaturated aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, and mixtures thereof in any home and personal care product, each fragrance compound being able to restrict the formation of indole to less than 0.01 ppm (wt/wt) after 24 hours incubation at room temperature in an airtight sealed vessel of suitable fresh human urine containing 0.28% by weight of each fragrance compound in order to prevent the development of indole based malodours from faecal and urine based soils.
US08580727B2 Reduced caustic laundry detergents based on extended chain surfactants
The invention discloses synergistic combinations of surfactants blends and cleaning composition. In certain embodiments a surfactant system is disclosed which includes extended anionic surfactants, linker surfactants, and a multiply charged cation component. This system forms emulsions with, and can remove greasy and oily stains, even those comprised of non-trans fats. In another embodiment anionic surfactants are combined with a solvent, and amine oxide to remove sunscreen stains. The compositions may be used alone, as a pre-spotter or other pre-treatment or as a part of a soft surface or hard surface cleaning composition.
US08580724B2 Metal loss inhibitor formulations and processes
In one embodiment, a metal loss inhibitor concentrate is provided which contains water, (A) a component of dissolved organic compounds and polymers that contain at least two hydroxy moieties per molecule and an average of at least 0.4 hydroxy moieties per carbon atom; (B) a thiourea component; and (C) a dissolved component containing aryl and quaternary ammonium moieties; and, optionally: (D) a wetting agent, such as a component of an ethoxylate of an alcohol. Such solutions form useful inhibitor concentrates when combined with aqueous chelating cleaning solutions, wherein such solutions, when contacted with a metal surface, are effective in removing scale, smut and other deposits from the metal surface but exhibit a reduced tendency to attack or unduly etch the metal itself, or to inhibit the subsequent desired oxidation and dissolution of metallic copper deposits.
US08580720B2 Laundry detergent composition comprising a glycosyl hydrolase and a benefit agent containing delivery particle
The present invention relates to a laundry detergent composition comprising a glycosyl hydrolase and a benefit agent containing delivery particles, compositions comprising said particles, and processes for making and using the aforementioned particles and compositions.
US08580719B2 Lubricating oil composition for internal combustion engine
A lubricating oil composition for internal combustion engines which comprises a base oil comprising mineral oils and/or synthetic oils and polyisobutylene having a weight-average molecular weight of 500,000 or higher. Consumption of the engine oil can be decreased by using the above composition. In particular, consumption of the engine oil can be decreased even when the above composition is used as the engine oil of the energy saving type using a base oil having a low viscosity.
US08580718B2 Multi-ring antioxidants with antiwear properties
Described are multi-ring antioxidant products comprising at least one sulfur-bridged aromatic hydrocarbon compound substituted on at least one of its aromatic rings by at least one sterically hindered 3,5-dihydrocarbyl-4-hydroxybenzyl moiety. Such products have the formula: R—Sn—R[—S—R]m wherein each R is, independently, an aromatic hydrocarbon group having 6-12 carbon atoms, wherein m is 0-20, wherein n is 1-6 when m is 0, and when n is 1, m is 1-20; and wherein at least one of R, R1, and R2 is substituted by at least one such sterically hindered moiety. The preparation of such products and their use as antioxidants in compositions normally susceptible to oxidative degradation in oxygen or air, e.g., liquid fuel and lubricants, are also described.
US08580716B2 Overbased magnesium oxide dispersions
Overbased MgO dispersions with high magnesium content and acceptably low viscosities are reproducibly prepared without gel formation by heating to 280-360° C. a mixture of MgO, selected dispersants, low MW carboxylic acids, water and a combination of high boiling hydrocarbon and organic diluent, wherein water is more than 8%, typically more than 10% of the reaction mixture. No additional solubilizing or dispersing agents, promoters or reactants such as carbon dioxide, amines, alcohols etc are needed to obtain the desired dispersions. Compositions such as lubricating oils and fuels containing the overbased magnesium dispersions as additives are also disclosed.
US08580713B2 Tool for diagnosis and prognosis of mature B-cell neoplasms
The present invention provides a microarray useful as a tool in the diagnosis and/or prognosis of certain types of cancers, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms. The microarray can include a plurality of genomic regions represented thereon, the genomic regions corresponding to regions wherein alterations, such as copy number alterations, at such locations correlate to specific, identifiable cancers, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms. The invention further provides methods of diagnosing and providing prognosis certain types of cancer, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms. The methods can comprise contacting a sample to a microarray according to the invention, allowing any genetic material in the sample to hybridize to the genomic regions on the microarray, analyzing the hybridizations, and correlating the hybridizations to certain cancer types, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms.
US08580709B2 Plant growth regulation
The present invention relates to a method for improving the plant growth regulation of and/or enhancing dicotyledonous crop plants, by applying to the plants trinexapac-ethyl and prohexadione-calcium, and to use of a composition comprising the same.
US08580706B2 Exhaust gas-purifying catalyst
An exhaust gas-purifying catalyst according to the present invention includes a substrate, a first catalytic layer facing the substrate and includes at least one precious metal selected from the group consisting of palladium and platinum, and alumina doped with an alkaline-earth metal element, and a second catalytic layer facing the substrate with the first catalytic layer interposed therebetween or intervening between the substrate and the first catalytic layer, the second catalytic layer includes rhodium and alumina doped with the alkaline-earth metal element.
US08580702B2 Toluene selective disproportionation catalyst
The present invention discloses a catalyst for toluene shape selective disproportionation, comprising: a) 45 to 95 wt % of ZSM-5 molecular sieve having an average particle size of from 0.3 to 6 μm and a molar ratio of SiO2 to Al2O3 of from 20 to 120; b) 0.01 to 30 wt % of at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Group IIB metals, Group IIIB metals, rare earth elements and Group VIII metals other than nickel, or oxide(s) thereof; c) 0 to 20 wt % of at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Group VA metals, Group VIB metals and alkaline earth metals, or oxide(s) thereof; d) 1 to 25 wt % of a silica inert surface coating derived from an organopolysiloxane; and e) 1 to 50 wt % of a binder. The present invention further discloses a process for shape selectively disproportionating toluene into p-xylene, comprising contacting a reaction stream containing toluene with the catalyst for toluene shape selective disproportionation under toluene disproportionation conditions.
US08580695B2 Method of fabricating a semiconductor device
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device for improving the performance of “Σ” shaped embedded source/drain regions is disclosed. A “U” shaped recess is formed in a Si substrate. The recess is treated with a surfactant, the amount of surfactant adsorbed on the recess sidewalls being greater than that on the recess bottom. An oxide is formed on the bottom. The presence of surfactant on the sidewalls, prevents oxide from forming thereon. The surfactant on the sidewalls is then removed and an orientation selective wet etching process is performed on the sidewalls. The oxide protects the Si at the bottom is from being etched.
US08580693B2 Temperature enhanced electrostatic chucking in plasma processing apparatus
Methods and systems for temperature enhanced chucking and dechucking of resistive substrates in a plasma processing apparatus are described herein. In certain embodiments, methods and systems incorporate modulating a glass carrier substrate temperature during a plasma etch process to chuck and dechuck the carrier at first temperatures elevated relative to second temperatures utilized during plasma etching. In embodiments, one or more of plasma heat, lamp heat, resistive heat, and fluid heat transfer are controlled to modulate the carrier substrate temperature between chucking temperatures and process temperatures with each run of the plasma etch process.
US08580691B2 Method of forming non-planar membranes using CMP
A method of shaping a substrate in one embodiment includes providing a first support layer, providing a first shaping pattern on the first support layer, providing a substrate on the first shaping pattern, performing a first chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process on the substrate positioned on the first shaping pattern, and removing the once polished substrate from the first shaping pattern.
US08580686B1 Silicidation and/or germanidation on SiGe or Ge by cosputtering Ni and Ge and using an intralayer for thermal stability
Formation of a semiconductor device with NiGe or NiSiGe and with reduced consumption of underlying Ge or SiGe is provided. Embodiments include co-sputtering nickel (Ni) and germanium (Ge), forming a first Ni/Ge layer on a Ge or silicon germanium (SiGe) active layer, depositing titanium (Ti) on the first Ni/Ge or Ni/Si/Ge layer, forming a Ti intermediate layer, co-sputtering Ni and Ge on the Ti intermediate layer, forming a second Ni/Ge layer, and performing a rapid thermal anneal (RTA) process.
US08580683B2 Apparatus and methods for molding die on wafer interposers
Methods and apparatus for performing molding on die on wafer interposers. A method includes receiving an interposer assembly having a die side and an opposite side including two or more integrated circuit dies mounted on the die side of the interposer, the interposer assembly having spaces formed on the die side of the interposer between the two or more integrated circuit dies; mounting at least one stress relief feature on the die side of the interposer assembly in one of the spaces between the two or more integrated circuit dies; and molding the integrated circuit dies using a mold compound, the mold compound surrounding the two or more integrated circuit dies and the at least one stress relief feature. An apparatus is disclosed having integrated circuits mounted on a die side of an interposer, stress relief features between the integrated circuits and mold compound over the integrated circuits.
US08580681B2 Manufacturing method of device
A device manufacturing method includes: sequentially forming a first sacrificial film, a first support film, a second sacrificial film, and a second support film on a semiconductor substrate; forming a hole to pass through these films; forming a crown-shaped electrode covering an inner surface of the hole and connected to the second support film and the first support film; forming a first opening in the second support film into a first pattern designed such that the connection between the crown-shaped electrode and the second support film is at least partially maintained; removing at least a part of the second sacrificial film through the first opening; forming a second opening in the first support film with use of the first opening; and removing the first sacrificial film through the second opening. This method is able to prevent misalignment of openings between the support films.
US08580676B2 Multiple layer barrier metal for device component formed in contact trench
A semiconductor device formed on a semiconductor substrate may include a component formed in a contact trench located in an active cell region. The component may comprise a barrier metal deposited on a bottom and portions of sidewalls of the contact trench and a tungsten plug deposited in a remaining portion of the contact trench. The barrier metal may comprise first and second metal layers. The first metal layer may be proximate to the sidewall and the bottom of the contact trench. The first metal layer may include a nitride. The second metal layer may be between the first metal layer and the tungsten plug and between the tungsten plug and the sidewall. The second metal layer covers portions of the sidewalls of not covered by the first metal layer.
US08580675B2 Two-track cross-connect in double-patterned structure using rectangular via
An integrated circuit may be formed by forming a first interconnect pattern in a first plurality of parallel route tracks, and forming a second interconnect pattern in a second plurality of parallel route tracks, in which the second plurality of route tracks are alternated with the first plurality of route tracks. The first interconnect pattern includes a first lead pattern and the second interconnect pattern includes a second lead pattern, such that the route track containing the first lead pattern is immediately adjacent to the route track containing the second lead pattern. Metal interconnect lines are formed in the first interconnect pattern and the second interconnect pattern. A stretch crossconnect is formed in a vertical connecting level, such as a via or contact level, which electrically connects only the first lead and the second lead. The stretch crossconnect is formed concurrently with other vertical interconnect elements.
US08580670B2 Migration and plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition
A method of producing a thin film using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition, including the steps of supplying a cation species to a substrate region when there is at most a relatively low flux of a plasma based anion species in the substrate region, and supplying the plasma based anion species to the substrate region when there is at most a relatively low flux of the cation species in the substrate region. This enables delivery of gaseous reactants to be separated in time in PECVD and/or RPECVD based film growth systems, which provides a significant reduction in the formation of dust particles for these plasma based film growth techniques.
US08580664B2 Method for forming ultra-shallow boron doping regions by solid phase diffusion
A method for forming an ultra-shallow boron dopant region in a substrate is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes depositing, by atomic layer deposition (ALD), a boron dopant layer in direct contact with the substrate, where the boron dopant layer contains an oxide, a nitride, or an oxynitride formed by alternating gaseous exposures of boron amide precursor or an organoboron precursor and a reactant gas. The method further includes patterning the dopant layer and forming an ultra-shallow dopant region in the substrate by diffusing boron from the boron dopant layer into the substrate by a thermal treatment.
US08580662B2 Manufacture method of a split gate nonvolatile memory cell
A split gate nonvolatile memory cell is provided with a first diffusion region, a second diffusion region, and a channel region formed between the first and second diffusion regions, including a first channel region having a predetermined dopant concentration. The first channel region is positioned apart from the first and second diffusion regions.
US08580660B2 Double and triple gate MOSFET devices and methods for making same
A double gate metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) includes a fin, a first gate and a second gate. The first gate is formed on top of the fin. The second gate surrounds the fin and the first gate. In another implementation, a triple gate MOSFET includes a fin, a first gate, a second gate, and a third gate. The first gate is formed on top of the fin. The second gate is formed adjacent the fin. The third gate is formed adjacent the fin and opposite the second gate.
US08580659B2 Method of fabricating high-mobility dual channel material based on SOI substrate
The present invention discloses a method of fabricating high-mobility dual channel material based on SOI substrate, wherein compressive strained SiGe is epitaxially grown on a conventional SOI substrate to be used as channel material of PMOSFET; Si is then epitaixally grown on SiGe, and approaches such as ion implantation and annealing are employed to allow relaxation of part of strained SiGe and transfer strain to the Si layer thereon so as to form strained Si material as channel material of NMOSFET. With simple process and easy realization, this method can provide high-mobility channel material for NMOSFET and PMOSFET at the same time, well meeting the requirement of simultaneously enhancing the performance of NMOSFET and PMOSFET devices and therefore providing potential channel material for CMOS process of the next generation.
US08580647B2 Inductors with through VIAS
A device using an inductor with one or more through vias, and a method of manufacture is provided. In an embodiment, an inductor is formed in one or more of the metallization layers. One or more through vias are positioned directly below the inductor. The through vias may extend through one or more dielectric layers interposed between a substrate and the inductors. Additionally, the through vias may extend completely or partially through the substrate.
US08580645B2 Memory devices and methods of forming memory devices
Disclosed is a method of forming memory devices employing halogen ion implantation and diffusion processes. In one illustrative embodiment, the method includes forming a plurality of word line structures above a semiconducting substrate, each of the word line structures comprising a gate insulation layer, performing an LDD ion implantation process to form LDD doped regions in the substrate between the word line structures, performing a halogen ion implantation process to implant atoms of halogen into the semiconducting substrate between the word line structures, and performing at least one anneal process to cause at least some of the atoms of halogen to diffuse into the gate insulation layers on adjacent word line structures.
US08580641B2 Techniques providing high-k dielectric metal gate CMOS
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a first dummy gate on a substrate, performing a doping process to the substrate, thereby forming a source and a drain at sides of the first dummy gate, performing a first high temperature annealing to activate the source and drain, forming an inter-layer dielectric (ILD) material on the substrate, removing the first dummy gate to create an ILD trench, forming a first high-k dielectric layer within the ILD trench, forming a first dummy cap portion within the ILD trench over the first high-k dielectric layer, performing a second high-temperature annealing to reduce defects in the first high-k dielectric layer, and thereafter, replacing the first dummy cap portion with a first metal gate electrode.
US08580639B2 Method of making ultrahigh density vertical NAND memory device
Monolithic, three dimensional NAND strings include a semiconductor channel, at least one end portion of the semiconductor channel extending substantially perpendicular to a major surface of a substrate, a plurality of control gate electrodes having a strip shape extending substantially parallel to the major surface of the substrate, the blocking dielectric comprising a plurality of blocking dielectric segments, a plurality of discrete charge storage segments, and a tunnel dielectric located between each one of the plurality of the discrete charge storage segments and the semiconductor channel.
US08580635B2 Method of replacing silicon with metal in integrated circuit chip fabrication
A method of replacing semiconductor material with metal, Replacement Metal Gate Field Effect Transistors (RMG FETs) and Contacts (RMCs), and Integrated Circuit (IC) chips including the FETs and/or RMCs. A patterned semiconductor layer, e.g., silicon, is formed on a dielectric layer, e.g., a layered gate dielectric. A field dielectric layer fills between shapes in the patterned semiconductor layer. Metal is deposited on the shapes. The wafer is annealed to replace semiconductor in each shape with metal to form metal FET gates or contacts.
US08580633B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device with gate spacer
A semiconductor device capable of ensuring a sufficient area of a peripheral region by forming a gate spacer to have a uniform thickness in the peripheral region and reducing a fabrication cost by simplifying a mask process and a method of manufacturing the semiconductor device are provided. The semiconductor device includes a gate disposed over a semiconductor substrate; a first spacer disposed over sidewalls of the gate; an insulating layer pattern disposed over sidewalls of the first spacer; and a second spacer disposed over the first spacer and the insulating pattern.
US08580621B2 Solder interconnect by addition of copper
A method of forming an electronic device provides an electronic device substrate having a solder bump pad located thereover. A nickel-containing layer is located over the solder bump pad. A copper-containing layer is formed on the nickel-containing layer prior to subjecting the electronic device to a reflow process.
US08580616B2 Methods of forming fully embedded bumpless build-up layer packages and structures formed thereby
Methods of forming a microelectronic packaging structure and associated structures formed thereby are described. Those methods may include a die embedded in a coreless substrate, wherein a mold compound surrounds the die, and wherein the die comprises TSV connections on a first side and C4 pads on a second side of the die, a dielectric material on a first side and on a second side of the mold compound; and interconnect structures coupled to the C4 pads and to the TSV pads. Embodiments further include forming packaging structures wherein multiple dies are fully embedded within a BBUL package without PoP lands.
US08580614B2 Embedded wafer-level bonding approaches
A method includes providing a carrier with an adhesive layer disposed thereon; and providing a die including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface. The die further includes a plurality of bond pads adjacent the second surface; and a dielectric layer over the plurality of bond pads. The method further includes placing the die on the adhesive layer with the first surface facing toward the adhesive layer and dielectric layer facing away from the adhesive layer; forming a molding compound to cover the die, wherein the molding compound surrounds the die; removing a portion of the molding compound directly over the die to expose the dielectric layer; and forming a redistribution line above the molding compound and electrically coupled to one of the plurality of bond pads through the dielectric layer.
US08580612B2 Chip assembly
A method of manufacturing an array of semiconductor devices comprises providing a first carrier having multiple chip alignment regions. Multiple chips are placed over the multiple chip alignment regions. Then, alignment of the chips to the multiple chip alignment regions is obtained. The multiple chips are then placed on a second carrier. The first carrier is detached from the multiple chips. An encapsulation material is applied to the multiple chips to form an encapsulated array of semiconductor chips. The second carrier is then detached from the encapsulated array of semiconductor devices.
US08580609B2 Semiconductor device with embedded interconnect pad
A semiconductor device comprising: a lower semiconductor package that comprises a first set of one or more semiconductor dies, an upper semiconductor package that is stacked on the lower semiconductor package, the upper semiconductor package comprises a second set of one or more semiconductor dies, and a first interconnect pad that is embedded in a top side of the lower semiconductor package to couple the upper semiconductor package to the lower semiconductor package.
US08580607B2 Microelectronic packages with nanoparticle joining
A method of making an assembly includes the steps of applying metallic nanoparticles to exposed surfaces of conductive elements of either of or both of a first component and a second component, juxtaposing the conductive elements of the first component with the conductive elements of the second component with the metallic nanoparticles disposed therebetween, and elevating a temperature at least at interfaces of the juxtaposed conductive elements to a joining temperature at which the metallic nanoparticles cause metallurgical joints to form between the juxtaposed conductive elements. The conductive elements of either of or both of the first component and the second component can include substantially rigid posts having top surfaces projecting a height above the surface of the respective component and edge surfaces extending at substantial angles away from the top surfaces thereof.
US08580606B2 Method of forming resistance variable memory device
A method of forming a resistance variable memory device, the method including forming a diode on a semiconductor substrate; forming a lower electrode on the diode; forming a first insulating film on the lower electrode, the first insulating film having an opening; forming a resistance variable film filling the opening such that the resistance variable film includes an amorphous region adjacent to a sidewall of the opening and a crystalline region adjacent to the lower electrode; and forming an upper electrode on the resistance variable film.
US08580605B2 Reduction of the effects of cap-like projections, due to laser ablation of a metal level by using a non-crosslinked light or heat-crosslinkable polymer layer
A laser-crosslinkable material appearing in non-crosslinked or partially crosslinked form is used to protect, during a laser etching, the electrodes of an organic transistor.
US08580603B2 Method of fabricating solar cells with electrodeposited compound interface layers
A method of fabricating a solar cell involves electroplating a Group IIB-VIA material as a first or sub-layer over a junction partner layer, and then forming a second layer, also of a Group IIB-VIA material over the sub-layer. Both the sub-layer and the second layer comprise Te. The electroplating is performed at relatively low temperatures, as for example, below 100° C. Forming the sub-layer by low temperature electroplating produces a small grained compact film that protects the interface between the sub-layer and the junction partner during the formation of the second layer. The second layer may be formed by physical vapor deposition or ink deposition. A solar cell has a first layer of a stoichiometric Group IIB-VIA material formed on a CdS film, and a second layer of a Group IIB-V1A material. Both the first and second layers contain Te. The first layer may comprise CdTe with a grain size small than 0.5 microns and the second layer may comprise CdTe with a grin size in the range of 1-5 microns.
US08580602B2 Polycrystalline CDTE thin film semiconductor photovoltaic cell structures for use in solar electricity generation
A reverse p-n junction solar cell device and methods for forming the reverse p-n junction solar cell device are described. A variety of n-p junction and reverse p-n junction solar cell devices and related methods of manufacturing are provided. N-intrinsic-p junction and reverse p-intrinsic-n junction solar cell devices are also described.
US08580600B2 Camera and production method for a camera
An image capturing system includes an optical component, a sensor below and connected to the optical component for capturing radiation, and a chip below the sensor for processing and/or storing and/or transmitting information captured by the sensor. The sensor and the Chip are directly connected to each other. The disclosure further relates to a production method for an image capturing system.
US08580597B2 Making of a microelectronic device including a monocrystalline silicon NEMS component and a transistor the gate of which is made in the same layer as the mobile structure of this component
A method for making a microelectronic device including, on a same substrate, at least one electro-mechanical component including a mobile structure of a monocrystalline semi-conductor material and a mechanism actuating and/or detecting the mobile structure, and with at least one transistor. The method a) provides a substrate including at least one first semi-conducting layer including at least one region in which a channel area of the transistor is provided, b) etches a second semi-conducting layer based on a given semi-conductor material, lying on an insulating layer placed on the first semi-conducting layer, to form at least one pattern of the mobile structure of the component in an area of monocrystalline semi-conductor material of the second semi-conducting layer, and at least one pattern of gate of the transistor on a gate dielectric area located facing the given region.
US08580592B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor light emitting element, and semiconductor light emitting element
Provided is a method for manufacturing a semiconductor light emitting element, which has a step wherein a substrate composed of a material different from that of a semiconductor layer is used and a III compound semiconductor layer is formed on the substrate, and can reduce the emission wavelength distribution (δ) of the obtained semiconductor light emitting layer. The method for manufacturing the semiconductor light emitting element having the III compound semiconductor layer is characterized in having: a compound semiconductor substrate forming step wherein at least one compound semiconductor layer is formed on the substrate and a compound semiconductor substrate having an amount of warpage (H) within the range of 50 μm≦H≦250 μm is formed; and a light emitting layer forming step wherein the light emitting layer composed of a plurality of III compound semiconductor layers is formed on the compound semiconductor substrate which has been formed.
US08580591B2 Method of manufacturing vertical pin diodes
The invention concerns a method of manufacturing a vertical PIN diode comprising: providing an epitaxial wafer comprising a vertically stacked N-type layer, intrinsic layer and P-type layer; forming an anode contact of the vertical PIN diode by forming an anode metallization on a first portion of the P-type layer defining an anode region; forming an electrically insulating layer around the anode region such that a first portion of the intrinsic layer extends vertically between the N-type layer and the anode region and second portions of the intrinsic layer extend vertically between the N-type layer and the electrically insulating layer; forming a trench in the electrically insulating layer and in the second portions of the intrinsic layer so as to expose a portion of the N-type layer defining a cathode region and to define a sacrificial side-guard ring consisting of a portion of the electrically insulating layer that extends laterally between the trench and the anode region and laterally surrounds said anode region; and forming a cathode contact of the vertical PIN diode by forming a cathode metallization on the exposed portion of the N-type layer defining the cathode region.
US08580587B2 Light emitting device and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention provides a light emitting device and a method for manufacturing a light emitting device. The light emitting device includes a base, an LED inversely mounted on the base. The LED includes an LED chip connected to the base and a buffer layer located on the LED. The buffer layer includes a plurality of depressions with complementary pyramid structure on a surface of the buffer layer not face the LED, the surface being a light-exiting surface of the LED. The buffer layer is made from silicon carbide. The light emitting device has a large area of the light-exiting surface and provides a reflecting film on a base, thus improving the luminous efficiency of the light emitting device. Inversely mounting mode is adopt, which is easy to implement.
US08580585B2 Method and system for controlled isotropic etching on a plurality of etch systems
A method for forming identical isotropic etch patterns in an etch system is disclosed. The method comprises providing a wafer paddle, a wafer, a plurality of identical etch systems, utilizing identical etch recipes within each of the plurality of etch systems, providing a fixed temperature stability time FTST for each system so that the heat transfer from the paddle to the wafer is constant, wherein the FTST is the same on each of the plurality of etch systems; and utilizing the plurality of identical etch systems to produce identical etches on each of the wafers based upon the FTST, wherein a five-second preheat step in the etch process is not utilized.
US08580578B2 Optical detection of label-free biomolecular interactions using microreplicated plastic
Methods and compositions are provided for detecting biomolecular interactions. The use of labels is not required and the methods can be performed in a high-throughput manner. The invention also provides optical devices useful as narrow band filters.
US08580570B2 Narrow bore porous layer open tube capillary column and uses thereof
A polymer-based PLOT capillary column prepared by in situ copolymerization of a functional monomer, which usually contains the retentive chemistries, and a crosslinking monomer, which enhances the strength of the polymer matrix, is disclosed. Also disclosed is a system comprising the polymer-based PLOT column coupled to a mass flow or concentration sensitive detector, for carrying out a chemical analysis method on samples separated by liquid chromatography using the column, and a process for using the system. Columns of the invention can be prepared in a robust fashion with a very narrow i.d., e.g., 5-15 μm. Thus, they are suitable for commercial use in ultratrace LC/MS proteomic analysis. Columns according to the invention are characterized by high resolving power and high column-to-column reproducibility. When these columns are coupled on-line with, e.g., ESI-MS detection, the resulting systems are capable of detecting the component parts of complex proteomic samples down to the low attomole to sub-attomole level.
US08580567B2 Method for the automated analysis of liquid samples using centrifugal force in a microfluidic structure
A method for the automated analysis of liquid samples using at least one microfluidic structure is disclosed as well as microfluidic structures, a device having at least one of the microfluidic structures, a kit and a system including such microfluidic device. In one embodiment, the method may comprise: transferring a sample into a first fluid reservoir which is in fluid communication with a second fluid reservoir by a flow channel; spinning the microfluidic structure so as to transport the sample into one or more dead-end recesses or chambers; transferring a control fluid into the structure which generates a barrier to flow and diffusion of the sample contained in the one or more dead-end recesses or chambers; and analyzing the sample contained in the one or more dead-end recesses or chambers.
US08580564B2 Biomimetic cell scaffolds
This invention relates to biomimetic implants containing mammalian cells which are induced by their environment to produce gradients of diffusible factors. This may be useful in eliciting a physiological pro-angiogenic response which stimulates angiogenesis and revascularisation in tissue adjacent the implant, for example in therapeutic applications in which increased angiogenesis and/or vasculogenesis is required. This may also be useful in providing biomimetic mammalian cell niches for cell culture and differentiation.
US08580562B2 Inhibitory RNA for modulating the molecular function of ZFAT gene
The inhibitory RNA for inhibiting the expression of ZFAT gene according to this invention is a siRNA comprising a sense RNA having a base sequence of contiguous 20 to 20 bases, preferably 23 to 27 bases, of ZFAT mRNA and an anti-sense RNA having a base sequence complementary to the base sequence of the sense RNA or a shRNA comprising a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) with the sense RNA connected to the anti-sense RNA via a loop sequence.The inhibitory RNA for inhibiting the expression of ZFAT gene according to this invention decreases a rate of cell proliferation of cancer cells, etc., induces apoptosis of cells including cancer cells, or inhibits an immunoresponse by inhibiting the expression of the ZFAT gene. Therefore, the inhibitory RNA of this invention is useful for development of molecular target agents particularly for cancer cells or immunosuppressive agents.
US08580560B1 Cap with filter and transfer apparatus
A cap has recess containing a porous frit and a graded porosity filter located so fluid from a container to which the cap is connected passes through the filter and out a spout on the cap. The filter porosity is selected to pass product expressed from cellular organisms grown in growth media inside the container while filtering out debris. A cap vent allows positive pressure in the container ullage to expedite filtering and reduce agitation of the container contents. This is not just a cap with a filter but an enabling tool. This tool enables total design change in many processes from previous thinking, allowing for the maximization of purified material, and reduction of multiple steps.
US08580559B2 Device for extracting nucleic acid from a sample
The present invention provides a cartridge for analyzing a fluid sample. The cartridge provides for the efficient separation of cells or viruses in the sample from the remaining sample fluid, lysis of the cells or viruses to release the analyte (e.g., nucleic acid) therefrom, and optionally chemical reaction and/or detection of the analyte. The cartridge is useful in a variety of diagnostic, life science research, environmental, or forensic applications for determining the presence or absence of one or more analytes in a sample.
US08580557B2 Casein hydrolyzate, process for producing the same and use thereof
The present invention relates to a casein hydrolysate containing free amino acids and in vivo indigestible peptides having minimally suppressed in vivo enzymatic digestibility, and expected to express functions, such as hypotensive effect, in living organism, and to a method for preparing such a hydrolysate, and use thereof. The casein hydrolysate of the present invention contains free amino acids and peptides, such as in vivo indigestible peptides including Xaa-Pro and Xaa-Pro-Pro, obtained by hydrolyzing animal milk casein to have an average chain length of not longer than 2.1 in terms of the number of amino acid residues, and has ACE inhibitory activity or hypotensive effect.
US08580555B2 Recombinant halohydrin dehalogenase polypeptides
The present disclosure provides engineered halohydrin dehalogenase (HHDH) polypeptides having improved enzyme properties as compared to the wild-type HHDH enzyme HheC and other reference engineered HHDH polypeptides. Also provided are polynucleotides encoding the engineered HHDH enzymes, host cells capable of expressing the engineered HHDH enzymes, and methods of using the engineered HHDH enzymes to synthesize a variety of chiral compounds including chiral epoxides and chiral alcohols.
US08580554B2 Method of producing a polypeptide or virus of interest in a continuous cell culture
Described herein is a chemostat-like continuous cell culture system that combines certain advantages of perfusion open systems and chemostat open systems to improve the culturing of mammalian cells, e.g., genetically modified cells, particularly in serum-free or chemically-defined media. The continuous culture system described herein involves culturing mammalian cells in a continuous cell culture system, which comprises a cell retention device, wherein the cell culture system has a dilution rate (D) of less than about 2 d−1, and a cell density of less than about 2×107 cell/mL. Also described herein is a method for producing a polypeptide and/or virus of interest in a continuous cell culture, the method comprising culturing mammalian cells expressing the polypeptide and/or virus of interest in a continuous cell culture system, which comprises a cell retention device, wherein the cell culture system has a dilution rate (D) of less than about 2 d−1, and a cell density of less than about 2×107 cell/mL; and recovering the polypeptide and/or virus of interest from medium of the cell culture system.
US08580553B2 Phage-associated lytic enzymes for treatment of Bacillus anthracis and related conditions
The present disclosure relates to methods, compositions and articles of manufacture useful for the treatment of Bacillus anthracis and B. cereus bacteria and spores, and related conditions. The disclosure further relates to methods and compositions for the identification of a phage associated lytic enzyme to rapidly and specifically detect and kill Bacillus anthracis and other bacteria. Related articles of manufacture, methods of degrading spores and methods of treatment of infections or bacteria populations of, or subjects exposed to or at risk for exposure to, Bacillus anthracis are also provided.
US08580551B2 Dispersin B polypeptides and uses thereof
Isolated nucleic acid sequences and amino acid sequences for soluble, β-N-acetylglucosaminidase or active fragments or variants thereof which promote detachment of bacterial cells from a biofilm are provided. An isolated mutant bacteria which forms biofilm colonies which tightly adhere to surface but which are unable to release cells into the medium or spread over the surface is also provided. In additions, methods are described for modulating detachment of bacterial cells from biofilm by mutating soluble, β-N-acetylglucosaminidase or altering its expression or activity are also provided. Also provided are compositions, methods and devices for preventing, inhibiting and treating bacterial infections.
US08580549B2 Esterases for separating plastics
The invention relates to agents containing esterases, and to the use thereof for dressing fibres, in particular, artificial fibres, washing and cleaning agents comprising esterases and corresponding washing and cleaning methods, in addition to additional technical areas of application. The invention also relates to the use of esterases for protecting against or reducing and/or preventing pilling, preferably in textiles, particularly plastic fibres, more preferably polyester fibres, in addition to the use of esterases for separating the plastics, in particular, polyester compounds. The invention further relates to novel esterases and to sufficiently related proteins and to derivatives thereof, agents containing them and to the use thereof.
US08580543B2 Microorganisms and methods for the biosynthesis of butadiene
The invention provides non-naturally occurring microbial organisms having a butadiene pathway. The invention additionally provides methods of using such organisms to produce butadiene.
US08580537B2 Thermotolerant transglutaminase originating in actinomyces
The present invention provides transglutaminases with improved heat resistance. Specifically, the present invention provides mutant transglutaminase proteins with improved heat resistance as obtained by introducing appropriate mutations into transglutaminases, which results in the incorporation of a disulfide bond.
US08580536B2 Compositions for saccharification of cellulosic material
The present invention relates to enzyme compositions for high temperature saccharification of cellulosic material and to uses thereof.
US08580530B2 Multiple analysis of blood samples
The invention relates to a method for detecting a plurality of antigenic molecules carried by erythrocytes and/or a plurality of anti-erythrocyte antibodies of an individual, comprising bringing a sample into contact with distinguishable beads, on which are attached a) antibodies specific for said antigens, or b) erythrocytes, erythrocyte membrane fragments or blood group antigens.
US08580527B2 Methods for identifying compounds which modulate T2R bitter taste receptors
The invention provides isolated nucleic acid and amino acid sequences of taste cell specific G-protein coupled receptors, antibodies to such receptors, methods of detecting such nucleic acids and receptors, and methods of screening for modulators of taste cell specific G-protein coupled receptors.
US08580526B2 Methods of using GPR119 receptor to identify compounds which stimulate glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide secretion
The present invention relates to methods of using GPR119 receptor to identify compounds useful for increasing bone mass in an individual. Agonists of GPR119 receptor are useful as therapeutic agents for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and for increasing bone mass in an individual. Agonists of GPR119 receptor promote bone formation in an individual.
US08580525B2 Methods of screening for LTRPC7 modulators
The present invention relates to the identification and isolation of a novel family of ATP regulated calcium transmembrane channel polypeptides designated herein as “LTRPC7” (Long Transient Receptor Potential Channel). Channels comprising these polypeptides close in response to concentrations of cytoplasmic ATP in the millimolar range, are subject to inhibition by high intracellular levels of calcium and/or magnesium, and do not respond to depletion or reduction in intracellular calcium stores. The invention further relates to the methods of utilizing LTRPC7 for binding, and the methods for modulating LTRPC7 activity and for measuring LTRPC2 permeability. The invention further relates to the methods of modulating expression of LTRPC7.
US08580524B2 Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose-macromolecule conjugates and methods employing same
Methods and reagents are disclosed for conducting assays for IgE. Embodiments of the present reagents comprise a conjugate of a macromolecule and a compound comprising a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope. Embodiments of the present methods are directed to determining the presence and/or amount of an IgE specific for a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope in a sample. A combination is provided in a medium, which comprises the sample and a reagent for determining the presence and/or amount of an IgE specific for a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope in a sample wherein the reagent comprises a conjugate of a macromolecule and a compound comprising a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope. The combination is subjected to conditions for binding of the IgE to the reagent to form a complex. The presence and/or amount of the complex are detected and the amount of the complex is related to the presence and/or amount of IgE in the sample.
US08580521B2 Device for serologically detecting Yersinia infections and/or secondary diseases thereof and use of the proteins MyfA and PsaA of Y. enterocolitica and Y. pseudotuberculosis as recombinant antigens
Devices are disclosed for serologically detecting an infection with human-pathogenic Yersinia ssp, wherein said device comprises at least one antigen selected from the group of antigens consisting of the following group: YopD, YopH, YopM, YopE, V-AG and YopN or a fragment of one of said antigens having at least eight consecutive amino acids and furthermore one of two proteins selected from MyfA and PsaA or fragments of one of said two proteins having at least eight consecutive amino acids.
US08580520B2 YKL-40 as a marker for gastrointestinal cancers
The present invention relates to gastrointestinal cancers and methods for selecting a treatment for said gastrointestinal cancer in a subject. The present invention further relates to a methods of diagnosing the presence of and/or classifying the severity of a gastrointestinal cancer; together with methods for determining the effect of a therapy administered and/or the prognosis for a subject suffering from a gastrointestinal cancer, before, during or after administering the treatment. For all the methods applies that a determined level of YKL-40 above one or more reference levels indicates the treatment, the severity of the disease, the effect of the treatment and/or the prognosis of the subject. The reference level is typically a level obtained from healthy individuals or a level previously obtained from the same subject. The subject may suffer from any one or more gastrointestinal cancers, such as upper gastrointestinal cancers, and metastatic colorectal cancer. The present invention further relates to a kit and a device that may be used in the method of the present invention.
US08580519B2 Use of plasma HSP90 related to malignancy
The present invention concerns diagnosing and/or prognosticating cancer in an individual and/or determining response to a Hsp90-interacting therapy in an individual. In particular, the methods and compositions of the therapy relate to levels of Hsp90-α in plasma. Additional methods concern determining levels of Hsp90-associated molecules.
US08580511B2 Two-color fluorescent reporter for alternative pre-mRNA splicing
The present invention provides reporter constructs for in vivo or in vitro monitoring of alternative pre-mRNA splicing events. The reporter constructs described herein are also particularly useful for high-throughput screening of compounds that affect alternative pre-mRNA splicing. Kits comprising the reporter constructs of the present invention find utility in a wide range of applications including, for example, basic research, drug screening, and drug design.
US08580509B2 Recurrent gene fusions in prostate cancer
Recurrent gene fusions of androgen regulated genes and ETS family member genes in prostate cancer are described. Compositions and methods having utility in prostate cancer diagnosis, research, and therapy are also provided.
US08580507B2 Methods for multiplexing recombinase polymerase amplification
This disclosure provides for methods and reagents for rapid multiplex RPA reactions and improved methods for detection of multiplex RPA reaction products. In addition, the disclosure provides new methods for eliminating carryover contamination between RPA processes.
US08580506B2 Method and composition for enhancing efficiency and sensitivity in polymerase chain reaction
Methods and compositions for enhancing reaction efficiency and sensitivity in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are disclosed.
US08580504B2 Methods and compositions for use in analyte detection using proximity probes
Methods and compositions for detecting an analyte in a sample are provided. In practicing the subject methods, a sample is combined with at least a pair of proximity probes that each include an analyte binding domain and a nucleic acid domain. The resultant mixture is then contacted with a pair of asymmetric nucleic acid connectors. Proximity dependent connector mediated interaction between the nucleic acid domains of the proximity probes is then detected to determine the presence of the analyte in the sample. Also provided are kits and systems for practicing the subject methods.
US08580501B2 Genetic variants on chr 5p12 and 10q26 as markers for use in breast cancer risk assessment, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment
The invention pertains to certain genetic variants on Chr5p12 and Chr10q26 as susceptibility variants of breast cancer. Methods of disease management, including diagnosing increased and/or decreased susceptibility to breast cancer, methods of predicting response to therapy and methods of predicting prognosis using such variants are described. The invention further relates to kits useful in the methods of the invention.
US08580498B2 Predictive value of nuclear excision repair genes for cancer survival
Patients who have their cancer surgically removed are at risk for recurrence, even though currently free of disease. Lung cancer patients with higher activity of a nuclear excision repair gene called ERCC1 were at a lower risk for recurrence than patients with lower activity of ERCC1. Hence, it is possible to predict which patients are at a higher risk for recurrence after resection. This information can be used to design treatment strategies for patients determined to be at a higher risk for recurrence. Additionally, patients who are lower risk for recurrence can be saved the morbidity of further treatment.
US08580497B2 Methods for detection of the oncogenic T1796A B-Raf mutation
The invention relates to mutations in B-Raf gene products. The mutations described are identified in human tumors of natural origin. These mutations are associated with cancerous phenotypes and can be used as a basis for the diagnosis of cancer, cancerous cells or a predisposition to cancer in human subjects, and the development of anti-cancer therapeutics.
US08580496B2 Method and kit for the detection of genes associated with PIK3CA mutation and involved in PI3K/AKT pathway activation in the ER-postitive and HER2-positive subtypes with clinical implications
A method to determine the clinical outcome of breast tumor affecting a patient if treated with an antitumoral agent against breast tumor. The method includes the step of assaying a sample of a breast tumor from the patient for an expression level of selected genes, by contacting mRNA sequences from the cells of this breast tumor with a set of more than 3 nucleotide sequences related to human mutated PIK3CA.
US08580493B2 Screening for compounds that modulate GPR3-mediated beta-arrestin signaling and amyloid beta peptide generation
The invention relates to the field of disorders of the peripheral or central nervous system, in particular, Alzheimer's disease, and the prevention and/or treatment thereof. In particular, the invention relates to the screening of compounds that modulate GPR3 activity and/or beta-arrestin signaling in a mammalian cell and, in particular, compounds that reduce the formation of amyloid beta peptides. The invention also relates to inhibiting agents targeting beta-arrestin signaling and pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and their use in therapeutic applications of those disorders.
US08580492B2 Screening method for the identification of inhibitors of HIV Tat methylation by the lysine methyltransferase Set7/9
The present invention provides isolated methylated Tat peptides; and compositions comprising the peptides. The present invention further provides isolated antibodies specific for a Lys-51-methylated Tat polypeptide. Also provided are methods of identifying agents that inhibit Lys-51 methylation of a Tat polypeptide. The present invention further provides methods of treating an immunodeficiency virus infection in a mammalian subject.
US08580490B1 Markers for screening anti-mycobacterial treatment efficacy
A method for metabolomically evaluating a subject's response to an anti-mycobacterial agent. The method includes the steps of generating multiple small molecule profiles using samples collected from the subject at or immediately prior to the start of treatment and at a times subsequent to the start of treatment with the anti-mycobacterial agent, identifying predetermined biomarkers in the small molecule profiles of the subject and comparing to a known standard established for the agent as an indication of whether the human is benefiting from treatment with the agent. Also provided are methods of monitoring treatment compliance, methods for establishing biomarkers indicative of treatment efficacy and validated biomarkers shown to be effective in assessing efficacy of anti-tuberculosis drugs.
US08580489B2 Use of an endoplasmin fragment and derivatives thereof as biomarker for colorectal adenoma and/or carcinoma; method for detection and test system
The present invention is directed to a method for detecting colorectal adenoma and/or colorectal carcinoma comprising the steps: a) providing an isolated sample material which has been taken from an individual, b) determining the level of an endoplasmin fragment or a derivative thereof in said isolated sample material, c) comparing the determined level of an endoplasmin fragment or a derivative thereof with one or more reference values. The invention is further directed to a method for discriminating between colorectal adenoma and colorectal carcinoma as well as to a method for monitoring the development and/or course of colorectal adenoma and/or colorectal carcinoma and/or the treatment of colorectal adenoma and/or colorectal carcinoma. Moreover, the invention is directed to a test system and an array for use in these methods.
US08580487B2 Methods of preserving functionality of an organ, preserving fertility of a patient undergoing a treatment expected to cause sterility and assuring a supply of viable gametes for future use
A method of preserving functionality of an organ. The method includes removing a whole organ and associated vasculature, cryo-preserving the whole organ, allowing a period of time to elapse, thawing the whole organ including vasculature and introducing the whole organ into a recipient so that the organ is supplied with blood by vasculature belonging to the recipient. Further disclosed is a method of preserving fertility of a patient undergoing a treatment expected to cause sterility. The method include removing a whole gonadal organ from the patient, cryo-preserving the whole gonadal organ, conducting the treatment and waiting for an effect thereof to subside, thawing the whole gonadal organ and introducing the whole gonadal organ where it is supplied with blood by the vasculature system of the patient. Further disclosed is a method of assuring a supply of viable gametes for future use, the method includes removing a whole gonadal organ from a patient, cryo-preserving the whole gonadal organ, waiting until viable gametes are desired by the patient, thawing the organ and introducing the gonadal organ into the patient so that it is supplied with blood by a vasculature system belonging to the patient.
US08580486B2 Salt having fluorine-containing carbanion structure, derivative thereof, photoacid generator, resist material using the photoacid generator, and pattern forming method
There is provided an acid having a fluorine-containing carbanion structure or a salt having a fluorine-containing carbanion structure, which is represented by the following general formula (1). By using a photoacid generator for chemically amplified resist materials that generates this acid, it is possible to provide a photoacid generator which has a high sensitivity to the ArF excimer laser light or the like, of which acid (photo generated acid) to be generated has a sufficiently high acidity, and which has a high dissolution in resist solvent and a superior compatibility with resin, and a resist material containing such a photoacid generator.
US08580473B2 Toner and method for manufacturing the same
A toner includes a binder resin and a colorant. The binder resin contains a polyester resin A obtained by subjecting aromatic dicarboxylic acid, rosin, and trivalent or higher-valent alcohol as starting materials to polycondensation, a content of the rosin in a sum of the starting materials being 60% by weight or more, and a polyester resin B obtained by subjecting aromatic dicarboxylic acid and polyhydric alcohol as starting materials to polycondensation, the polyester resin B having a viscosity of 103 Pa·s or more and 105 Pa·s or less at a softening temperature of the polyester resin A, the polyester resin B being contained in an amount of 50 parts by weight or more and 200 parts by weight or less relative to 100 parts by weight of the polyester resin A.
US08580471B2 Bio-toner containing bio-resin, method for making the same, and method for printing with bio-toner containing bio-resin
A bio-toner for use in electrophotographic image forming that contains a bio-resin component that is at least partially derived from a renewable resource is provided. A method of making the bio-toner that contains a bio-resin component for use in electrophotographic image forming is also provided. A method for electrophotographic image formation using the bio-toner that contains a bio-resin is also provided.
US08580469B2 Colored toners
Disclosed is a toner composition comprising: (a) a resin; and (b) a colorant which comprises: (1) Pigment Red 269; (2) Pigment Red 185; and (3) Pigment Red 122.
US08580467B2 Method for fabricating color filter substrate
A method for fabricating a color filter substrate is disclosed, to realize the simplified fabrication process by forming a film-type color filter layer, which includes preparing a mask having patterns for forming color filter layers and a black matrix layer; positioning the mask above a film; irradiating light to the film through the mask; developing the film to form the film-type color filter layers and the black matrix layer; and adhering the developed film onto a substrate.
US08580460B2 Apparatus and method for managing fluids in a fuel cell stack
A plurality of flow field plate assemblies forms a fuel cell stack. Each flow field plate assembly has a first flow field plate positionable on an anode side of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of a first fuel cell, a second flow field plate positionable on a cathode side of an MEA of a second fuel cell, adjacent the first fuel cell. At least one back-feed channel is interposed between the first and second flow field plates. At least a portion of the back-feed channel or a reactant manifold opening formed by the first and second flow field plates has a geometry that forms regions of high and low capillary forces, promoting liquid migration toward regions substantially isolated from a flow of reactants, to prevent water collection and ice formation. The migrated liquid is purged during a purge of the fuel cell stack after operation.
US08580453B2 Electrode-supported ceramic fuel cell containing laminar composite electrode including porous support electrode, patterned structure layer and electrolyte
A solid oxide electrochemical device having a laminar composite electrode with improved electrochemical and mechanical performance, the laminar composite electrode comprising a porous support electrode layer, a thin and patterned structure layer, and a thin and dense electrolyte layer and methods for making.
US08580452B2 Fuel cell assembly
A fuel cell apparatus (A1) includes a stack structure (B) including a plurality of solid electrolyte cell units (10) stacked with interspaces separating one another, and a case (20) enclosing the stack structure (B). The fuel cell apparatus (A1) further includes an inlet port (30) to introduce a reactant gas into the case (20), an outlet port (40) to discharge the reactant gas from the case (20), and a gas guide extending from the inlet port (30) along an outer periphery of the stack structure (B). The gas guide may include at least one guide member (50), and a heat transfer section.
US08580446B2 Recycler, water management system of fuel cell comprising the same, fuel cell comprising the water management system, and method of measuring water level
A recycler of a fuel cell includes two electrodes, a rotor interposed between the two electrodes, and an insulating container surrounding and receiving the two electrodes and the rotor. A water management system of the fuel cell includes the recycler, and the fuel cell includes the water management system. A method of measuring a water level in the recycler includes measuring a conductivity of water separated in the recycler is measured.
US08580443B2 Method and arrangement for controlling anode recirculation for fuel cells using a steam jet ejector
A fuel cell system arrangement is disclosed for controlling an Oxygen-to-Carbon (O/C) relationship by providing water to an anode side fuel recirculation, pumping the provided water to facilitate a water flow, and evaporating water from the facilitated water flow for generating pressurized steam having at least the motive pressure for a steam jet-ejector. The at least one steam jet-ejector can inject at least part of the steam to the fuel cell system, and entrain part of an essentially low pressure anode exhaust gas stream in the anode side gas recirculation and compress the gas mixture to an intermediate pressure of the fuel feed-in stream for controlling the Oxygen-to-Carbon (O/C) relationship in the fuel side of the fuel cell system.
US08580440B2 Non-aqueous electrolytic solution containing additive for increasing capacity of lithium-ion cell and lithium-ion cell using same
Disclosed are an additive for improving charge/discharge characteristics of a lithium-ion cell, a nonaqueous electrolytic solution containing the additive, and a lithium-ion cell using the additive and/or the nonaqueous electrolytic solution. The additive serves as a solvent for a fluorine resin, such as poly(vinylidene fluoride), which is incorporated as an adhesive in a positive electrode containing a lithium-transition metal oxide capable of absorbing and releasing lithium and a negative electrode containing a carbon material capable of absorbing and releasing lithium. The additive comprises three compounds selected, respectively, from a 2-pyrrolidinone compound group, a cyclic alkyl compound group, and a cyclic pentanone compound group.
US08580439B1 Insulator component design for maintaining electrode assembly compression in prismatic medical cells
An electrochemical cell comprising a conductive casing housing an electrode assembly provided with a stack holder surrounding the electrode assembly is described. The stack holder is of a shape memory material that serves to maintain the anode and cathode in a face-to-face close physical proximity alignment throughout discharge. This is particularly important in later stages of cell life. As the cell discharges, anode active material is physically moved from the anode to intercalate with the cathode active material. As this mass transfer occurs, the cathode becomes physically larger and the anode smaller. This can lead to gaps forming between the anode and the cathode. However, the stack holder inhibits the formation of such gaps by maintaining a compressive force on the electrode assembly throughout cell discharge.
US08580437B2 Graphite particles and lithium secondary battery using the same as negative electrode
A method for forming a negative electrode for a lithium secondary battery, includes providing a paste comprising graphite particulates comprise assembled or bound graphite particles in each of which a plurality of flat-shaped particles are assembled or bound together so that the planes of orientation are not parallel to one another, and the mixture including 3 to 10 parts by weight of the organic binder per 100 parts by weight of the graphite particulates, a binder and a solvent, coating the paste on a current collector, drying the paste coated on the current collector to form a mixture of the graphite particulates and the binder, and integrating the mixture with the current collector by pressing to provide a density of the mixture of graphite particulates and organic binder of 1.5 to 1.9 g/cm3.
US08580436B2 Methods of oxidizing multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Methods of oxidizing multiwalled carbon nanotubes are provided. The multiwalled carbon nanotubes are oxidized by contacting the carbon nanotubes with gas-phase oxidizing agents such as CO2, O2, steam, N2O, NO, NO2, O3, and ClO2. Near critical and supercritical water can also be used as oxidizing agents. The multiwalled carbon nanotubes oxidized according to methods of the invention can be used to prepare rigid porous structures which can be utilized to form electrodes for fabrication of improved electrochemical capacitors.
US08580435B2 Negative electrode active material, nonaqueous electrolyte battery and battery pack
According to one embodiment, a negative electrode active material includes a compound having a crystal structure of monoclinic titanium dioxide. The compound has a highest intensity peak detected by an X-ray powder diffractometry using a Cu-Kα radiation source. The highest intensity peak is a peak of a (001) plane, (002) plane, or (003) plane. A half-width (2θ) of the highest intensity peak falls within a range of 0.5 degree to 4 degrees.
US08580431B2 Porous carbonaceous composite material, positive electrode and lithium air battery including porous carbonaceous composite material, and method of preparing the same
A porous carbonaceous composite material including a core including a carbon nanotube (CNT); and a coating layer on the core, the coating layer including a carbonaceous material including a hetero element.
US08580426B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery includes an electrode assembly having a first electrode plate, a second electrode plate, and a separator disposed between the first and second electrode plates, a case accommodating the electrode assembly, and a cap assembly coupled to the case, the cap assembly including a cap plate sealing the case and having a short-circuit hole, a short-circuit plate covering the short-circuit hole of the cap plate, the short-circuit plate being spaced apart from an outer surface of the cap plate, a reversible plate adjacent the short-circuit hole, and a sealing member between the cap plate and the short-circuit plate.
US08580425B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery, including an electrode assembly; a can housing the electrode assembly; and a cap assembly on the can, wherein the cap assembly includes: a cap plate having a terminal hole and a terminal groove, a gasket on the cap plate having a center hole, and an electrode terminal having a terminal post in the center hole and a plate portion disposed on the gasket; the gasket including a gasket post in the terminal hole and a gasket plate seated in the terminal groove; at least one side of the terminal plate and at least one side of the gasket plate being spaced apart from at least one side of the terminal groove.
US08580423B2 Bus bar holder and battery pack including the same
A battery pack includes a plurality of unit batteries; at least one bus bar electrically connecting electrode terminals of unit batteries of the plurality of unit batteries; and a bus bar holder including a holder body extending in a lengthwise direction, and at least one bus bar receiver on the holder body and mounting a respective bus bar of the at least one bus bar thereon, the at least one bus bar receiver having at least one connection hole formed therethrough, wherein the at least one bus bar is connected to an electrode terminal of the electrode terminals through the at least one connection hole.
US08580421B2 Battery pack
The present invention relates to a battery pack and the battery pack includes: a plurality of secondary batteries; a core pack including a protection circuit module; and a battery case composed of first and second sub-cases for accommodating the core pack, in which fastening portions combining the first sub-case with the second sub-case are formed, and adhesive members and grooves receiving the adhesive members are formed at the fastening portions.
US08580420B2 Cable-type secondary battery
Provided is a cable-type secondary battery including an electrode assembly having a horizontal cross section of a predetermined shape and extending longitudinally, and a wire-type outer current collector wound on the outer surface of the electrode assembly, the electrode assembly including an inner current collector, an anode active material layer, and an electrolyte layer, and a cathode active material layer; the wire-type outer current collector has excellent flexibility and a predetermined level of elasticity, and thus, improves the flexibility of the entire cable-type secondary battery and prevents a short circuit from occurring and the active material from falling off from the active material layer, due to the deformation of the cable-type secondary battery.
US08580418B2 Non-woven fibrous materials and electrodes therefrom
Fibrous materials composed of activated carbon fibers and methods for their preparation are described. Electrodes comprising the fibrous materials are also disclosed.
US08580417B2 Electrode assembly and secondary battery having the same
An electrode assembly and a secondary battery including the same. The electrode assembly is constructed with a positive electrode plate including a positive electrode coating portion, a negative electrode plate including a negative electrode coating portion, a separator interposed between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate, and at least one mesh layer disposed on at least one of the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate. The mesh layer is wider than either the positive electrode coating portion or the negative electrode coating portion to prevent a detachment of either the positive electrode coating portion or the negative electrode coating portion. Since the mesh layer prevents the detachment of the electrode coating portions when subjected to an external impact, it is possible to improve the stability and reliability of a battery.
US08580413B2 Low magnetic interference battery
A low magnetic interference battery is provided, the battery insertable into a mobile communication device, the mobile communication device comprising a radio interconnected with a microphone and a receiver. The battery comprises a battery portion enabled to provide electrical power to the radio, the battery portion emitting a magnetic field when in operation. The battery further comprises a sealing portion for sealing the battery portion therein such that the battery portion is protected from moisture, the sealing portion comprising a magnetic shield portion arranged relative to the battery portion such that magnetic flux from the battery portion is routed away from the receiver when the battery is in operation in the mobile communication device.
US08580411B2 Glass for substrate, and glass substrate
To provide glass to be used for a substrate which is, as a substrate, less susceptible to surface roughening even if subjected to cleaning by means of a strongly acidic solution.Glass for a substrate, which comprises, as represented by mol % based on the following oxides, from 62.5 to 69% of SiO2, from 9 to 15.5% of Al2O3, from 8 to 16 of Li2O, from 0 to 8% of Na2O, from 0 to 7% of K2O and from 0 to 3.5% of ZrO2, provided that SiO2—Al2O3 is at least 53.3%, Li2O+Na2O+K2O is from 17 to 24%, and the total of contents of the above six components is at least 97%.
US08580410B2 Perpendicular magnetic recording medium and process for manufacture thereof
An object of the present invention is to provide a perpendicular magnetic recording medium 100 including a magnetic recording layer 122, the medium in which a particle diameter of crystal grains in the magnetic recording layer 122 of a two-layer structure is so designed as to improve an SNR while a high coercive force is maintained. In a method of manufacturing the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 100 according to the present invention, the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 100 includes at least a ground layer 118, a first magnetic recording layer 122a, and a second magnetic recording layer 122b in this order on a disk base 110; the first magnetic recording layer 122a and the second magnetic recording layer 122b are ferromagnetic layers each having a granular structure in which a grain boundary part made of a non-magnetic substance is formed between crystal grains each grown in a columnar shape, and A
US08580409B2 Perpendicular magnetic recording media having a dual onset layer
Perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR) media and methods of fabricating PMR media are described. The PMR media includes, among other layers, an underlayer, a first onset layer on the underlayer, a second onset layer on the first onset layer, and a perpendicular magnetic recording layer on the second onset layer. The second onset layer has a magnetic moment which is higher than both a magnetic moment of the first onset layer and a magnetic moment of the perpendicular magnetic recording layer.
US08580408B2 Apparatus for moving magnetic domain wall and memory device including magnetic field application unit
An apparatus for moving a magnetic domain wall and a memory device using a magnetic field application unit are provided. The apparatus for moving a magnetic domain wall includes a magnetic layer having a plurality of magnetic domains; current supply units that are disposed on both sides of the magnetic layer and supply current to the magnetic layer; and a magnetic field application unit that is disposed on at least one surface of the magnetic layer and applies a magnetic field to the magnetic layer.
US08580406B2 Hard coating film, material coated with hard coating film and die for cold plastic working and method for forming hard coating film
The present invention provides hard coating film which excels conventional surface coating layer in wear resistance, has lower frictional coefficient and better slidability, a material coated with the hard coating film, a die for cold plastic working, and a method for forming the hard coating film. The hard coating film according to the present invention is a hard coating film comprising (NbxM1-x)y(BaCbN1-a-b)1-y, where 0.2≦x≦1.0  Equation (1) 0≦a≦0.3  Equation (2) 0≦1-a-b≦0.5  Equation (3) 0.5≦b≦1  Equation (4) 0.4≦1-y≦0.9  Equation (5) [however, M denotes at least one species of elements belonging to Groups 4a, 5a, and 6a and Si and Al; x, 1-x, a, b, and 1-a-b represent respectively the atomic ratio of Nb, M, B, C and N; and y and 1-y represent respectively the ratio of (NbxM1-x) and (BaCbN1-a-b)].
US08580402B2 Dibenzothiophene-containing materials in phosphorescent light emitting diodes
A new class of dibenzothiophene and/or dibenzofuran-containing compounds are provided. The new compounds may be useful in organic light emitting devices, particularly as the host of an emissive layer having a host and an emissive dopant, or as a material in an enhancement layer.
US08580400B2 Bichrysene compound and organic light emitting device having the compound
Provided are a novel bichrysene compound and an organic light emitting device having high light emitting efficiency and excellent driving durability. The organic light emitting device includes an anode, a cathode, and a layer formed of an organic compound interposed between the anode and the cathode. The layer formed of an organic compound has a bichrysene compound represented by the following general formula (1).
US08580399B2 Substituted oligoazacarbazoles for light emitting diodes
Novel compounds containing substituted oligoazacarbazole chains are provided. These compounds are useful in organic light emitting devices, in particular as hosts in the emissive layer of such devices.
US08580398B2 Material for organic electroluminescent devices and organic electroluminescent devices made by using the same
A material for electroluminescent devices which comprises a compound in which a heterocyclic group having nitrogen is bonded to carbazolyl group and an organic electroluminescent device having at least one organic thin film layer which is sandwiched between the cathode and the anode and contains the above material in at least one layer, are provided. The material can provide organic electroluminescent devices emitting bluish light with a high purity of color. The organic electroluminescence device uses the material.
US08580397B2 Organic light-emitting diodes from homoleptic square planar complexes
Homoleptic square planar complexes [M(NΛN)2], wherein two identical NΛN bidentate anionic ligands are coordinated to the M(II) metal center, including bidentate square planar complexes of triazolates, possess optical and electrical properties that make them useful for a wide variety of optical and electrical devices and applications. In particular, the complexes are useful for obtaining white or monochromatic organic light-emitting diodes (“OLEDs”). Improved white organic light emitting diode (“WOLED”) designs have improved efficacy and/or color stability at high brightness in single- or two-emitter white or monochrome OLEDs that utilize homoleptic square planar complexes, including bis[3,5-bis(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4-triazolato]platinum(II) (“Pt(ptp)2”).
US08580393B2 Polymer and organic electroluminescent device including the same
A polymer compound including a repeating unit shown by the following formula (1) wherein at least one of Ar1, Ar2 and Ar3 in the formula (1) is a group shown by the formula (2) and the two bonds shown in the formula (1) are present on any one or any two of Ar1, Ar2, Ar3 and L1.
US08580392B2 Organic light-emitting diode and uses thereof
The invention relates to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) having an improved lifetime and improved transport of negative charge carriers. The organic light-emitting diode is based on an organic semiconductor material, in which the transport of negative charge carriers and stability with respect to reduction is achieved with triarylated Lewis acid units, in particular perarylated borane units. This leads to an improved lifetime of the emission layer which in turn increases the lifetime of the component and eliminates the need for correcting brightness during operation. Furthermore, the invention relates to organic light-emitting diodes in which the position of the emission zone in the emitter layer and the color of the emission can be influenced in a targeted manner through triarylated Lewis acids such as perarylated borane units.
US08580388B2 Composition suitable for stretch hood, method of producing the same, and articles made therefrom
The instant invention provides a composition suitable for stretch hood, method of producing the same, and articles made therefrom. The article according to the present invention comprises a multi-layer film according to the present invention has a thickness of at least 3 mils comprising at least one inner layer and two exterior layers, wherein the inner layer comprises at least 50 weight percent polyethylene copolymer having a melt index less than 2 grams/10 minutes, a density less than or equal to 0.910 g/cm3, a total heat of fusion less than 120 Joules/gram and a heat of fusion above 115° C. of less than 5 Joules/gram, the total heat of fusion of the inner layer less than the heat of fusion of either of the two exterior layers, and wherein the multi-layer film has an elastic recovery of at least 40% when stretched to 100% elongation.
US08580384B2 Dielectric materials and methods of preparation and use thereof
Disclosed are dendritic macromolecule-based dielectric compositions (e.g., formulations) and materials (e.g. films) and associated devices. The dendritic macromolecules have branched ends that are functionalized with an organic group that includes at least one 3-40 membered cyclic group.
US08580381B2 Oxygen absorber for blending in a resin and method of producing the same
An oxygen absorber for blending in a resin, comprising a mixed powder containing an iron powder, a metal halide and an alkaline substance, and having a half-peak width on a plane (110) of 0.20°/2θ (Co—Kα) or less as measured by a powder X-ray diffraction method, a specific surface area of 0.5 m2/g or more, and an average particle size of 1 to 40 μm. The oxygen absorber effectively suppresses the generation of hydrogen, features excellent safety, exhibits excellent oxygen-absorbing capability and offers an advantage of high productivity due to the suppressed occurrence of coarse particles in the step of producing the oxygen absorber.
US08580379B2 Coating, article coated with coating, and method for manufacturing article
A coating includes a nano-composite layer including an equal number of films. The films are stacked on top of each other one after another. Each film includes a zirconium-copper carbonitride layer and a zirconium carbonitride layer.
US08580374B2 Resin molded body
A resin molded body comprises a front surface layer disposed on a front surface side, a back surface layer disposed on a back surface side, and an intermediate layer disposed between the front surface layer and the back surface layer, each of the layers has a micro-phase separated structure including lamellar micro domains, each of the micro domains of the layers has a wave-like shape having amplitudes in the opposite direction of the front surface and the back surface, a maximum value of predetermined distances in the micro domains of the front surface layer and a maximum value of predetermined distances in the micro domains of the back surface layer are larger than the wavelength in the visible light range, and predetermined distances in the micro domains of the intermediate layer are equal to or less than the wavelength in the visible light range.
US08580373B2 Embossed decorative boards
Embossed decorative boards having first and second opposite edges with a third and a fourth adjacent edge. The board includes an upper side decorative surface an upper side embossing and a base layer. The embossing is comprised by surface structure areas of which at least four are first and second outermost surface structure areas. The first outermost surface structure area has each one end edge coinciding with the first edge of the board while the second outermost surface structure area has each one end edge coinciding with the second edge. At least two surface structures having different visual characteristics are used, wherein two adjacent outermost surface structure areas within the same board have different surface structures. The end edge of the outermost surface structure areas with the same ordinal number of the first edge and the second edge has mainly the same length while the surface structure is similar.
US08580368B2 Information recording medium and method for manufacturing the same
An optical information recording medium including three or more information layers, wherein at least one information layer provided on the light incident side is an information layer which enables information to be overwritten and includes a recording film, a transmittance adjusting film of a dielectric containing Bi, Ti and O, and an isolation film in this order from a light incident side; and the isolation film is provided between and adjacent to the transmittance adjusting film and an intermediate separation layer which separate the information layer from another information layer on the side opposite to the light incident side; and the isolation film has an optical constant at a wavelength of 405 nm such that a refractive index is 1.8 or less and an extinction coefficient is 0.05 or less. This information recording medium prevents the repeated overwriting characteristics in a sever environment from being deteriorated.
US08580363B2 Flexible multilayer structure for tubes
The invention relates to a flexible packaging tube formed from a laminate comprising at least one first layer and one second layer, characterized in that the first layer is formed from a material whose properties make it possible to weld the first layer to itself and in that the second layer is formed from a material whose properties make it impossible to weld the second layer onto the first layer.
US08580354B2 Plasma treatment of substrates prior to deposition
A plasma processing chamber particularly useful for pre-treating low-k dielectric films and refractory metal films subject to oxidation prior to deposition of other layers. A remote plasma source (RPS) excites a processing gas into a plasma and delivers it through a supply tube to a manifold in back of a showerhead faceplate. The chamber is configured for oxidizing and reducing plasmas in the same or different processes when oxygen and hydrogen are selectively supplied to the RPS. The supply tube and showerhead may be formed of dielectric oxides which may be passivated by a water vapor plasma from the remote plasma source. In one novel process, a protective hydroxide coating is formed on refractory metals by alternating neutral plasmas of hydrogen and oxygen.
US08580346B2 Compositions and methods for restoring aircraft windows and other plastic surfaces
Plastic restoration kits and methods for effectively restoring the light transmission and optical clarity properties to a plastic surface such as an aircraft window. The kits and methods restore plastic surfaces that have been damaged by scratching and/or UV-induced oxidation. The kits and methods employ a polishing composition and optionally a lusterizing composition, each having particles selected so as to polish and lusterize a plastic surface. After polishing and lusterizing, a UV protective composition that forms a hard UV protective coating is applied. The polishing and/or lusterizing compositions may include agglomerated abrasive particles dispersed in a liquid or gel carrier that progressively break down in size when exposed to oxygen and mechanical pressuring during polishing or lusterizing.
US08580343B2 Method for fabricating composite carbon nanotube structure
A method for fabricating composite carbon nanotube structure is presented. A carbon nanotube array is provided. A first carbon nanotube structure is drawn from the carbon nanotube array. The first carbon nanotube structure is located on the substrate. A second carbon nanotube structure is grown on a surface of the first carbon nanotube structure to form a composite carbon nanotube structure. A composite carbon nanotube structure is also presented.
US08580342B2 Low temperature CNT growth using gas-preheat method
A method for synthesizing carbon nanotubes (CNT) comprises the steps of providing a growth chamber, the growth chamber being heated to a first temperature sufficiently high to facilitate a growth of carbon nanotubes; and passing a substrate through the growth chamber; and introducing a feed gas into the growth chamber pre-heated to a second temperature sufficient to dissociate at least some of the feed gas into at least free carbon radicals to thereby initiate formation of carbon nanotubes onto the substrate.
US08580340B2 Substrate processing apparatus and substrate processing method
After a solvent is discharged onto a substrate in a period from a time point t0 to a time point t1, rotation of the substrate is started at a time point t2. A resist liquid is discharged onto a center portion of a target surface of the substrate at a time point t3. A rotation speed of the substrate starts to decrease at a time point t4, and attains a first speed after a certain period of time. The discharge of the resist liquid is stopped at a time point t5. The rotation of the substrate is accelerated in a period from a time point t6 to a time point t7, and the rotation speed of the substrate attains a second speed at the time point t7. The rotation of the substrate is decelerated in a period from the time point t7 to a time point t8, and the rotation speed of the substrate attains a third speed at the time point t8. Here, deceleration of the rotation of the substrate in the period from the time point t7 to the time point t8 is smaller than acceleration of the rotation of the substrate in the period from the time point t6 to the time point t7.
US08580338B1 Embossed durable supports with RFID chip, for labeling and relabeling objects
A self adhesive embossed support comprising: (a) a resin film which may be a thermoplastic or a thermoset resin having at least one embossed surface for receiving a removable element where the embossed surface has a reduced surface area of contact that allows for removal of an adhesive backed element without leaving any substantial adhesive residue; and an adhesive side on the side of the resin film opposite the receiving side with the embossed surface with an adhesive having an ultimate release energy level greater than the attraction forces between the embossed film and a substrate to be removed; (b) the substrate receiving side consisting of a reduced surface area surface to facilitate release of the applied element without making use of a coated release substance or film made with materials that have inherent release characteristics that are adapted to support a removable element attachable thereto by means comprising attraction forces between the resin film and the substrate.
US08580334B2 Method of forming electrode of piezoelectric element
An electrode structure of a piezoelectric element is provided. The piezoelectric element 23a (23b) constitutes a piezoelectric actuator 19 attached to an attaching part 30 of an object, to minutely move a movable part 15 of the object relative to a base part 13 of the object according to deformation occurring on the piezoelectric element in response to a power applied state of the piezoelectric element. The electrode structure in response an electrode 41a formed on one of a pair of electrode forming faces 31a and 31b of the piezoelectric element on an inner side of a peripheral zone 31a1, the peripheral zone being defined along the periphery of the electrode forming face 31a on which the electrode is formed. The electrode structure also includes a non-electrode part 51 formed in the peripheral zone. Even if the peripheral zone 31a1 of the electrode forming face 31a having a short-circuit causing possibility touches the attaching part 30, no short circuit occurs.
US08580333B2 Matrix type display device with optical material at predetermined positions and manufacturing method thereof
An object of the invention is to improve patterning accuracy while maintaining low cost, high throughput and a high degree of freedom of an optical material in a matrix type display device and a manufacturing method thereof.In order to achieve the object, a difference in height, a desired distribution of liquid repellency and affinity to liquid, or a desired potential distribution is formed by utilizing first bus lines in a passive matrix type display device or utilizing scanning lines, signal lines, common current supply lines, pixel electrodes, an interlevel insulation film, or a light shielding layer in an active matrix type display device. A liquid optical material is selectively coated at predetermined positions by utilizing the difference in height, the desired distribution of liquid repellency and affinity to liquid, or the desired potential distribution.
US08580329B2 Dry-mill ethanol plant extraction enhancement
In a liquid stream capture process for extracting various components in a dry mill ethanol process, a converted mash is separated into sugars/carbohydrates and corn residue by rinsing the converted mash with a dilute solvent stream and, after the sugars/carbohydrates have been separated, oils and proteins are extracted from the corn residue by rinsing the corn residue with a concentrated solvent stream. The dilute solvent stream is a mixture of ethanol and water, and the concentrated solvent stream is pure ethanol.
US08580325B2 Vase for use with food products
Vase apparatus and decorating methods for associating flowers and other decorative items with cakes and other food products are described. Vase embodiments include a water-holding reservoir having a bottom wall, an upright rim, and plural flower-stem-receiving wells. Each well is defined by at least one well wall depending from the bottom wall and has an opening capable of receiving water from the reservoir. Vase embodiments may include a reservoir of various shapes and sizes. Vases may be placed on a cake or other food product permitting the cake or food product to be attractively and easily decorated.
US08580322B2 Enzymatic process
Provided is a process of forming a vanilla extract wherein green ripe vanilla beans are exposed to a high drying temperature, extracted with a solvent, and treated with beta-glucosidase enzyme to convert glucovanillin to vanillin enzymatically, thereby providing a vanilla extract with a good vanillin yield and complex well-balanced vanilla aroma lacking undesirable off-notes.
US08580321B2 Method for reducing the effects of chemotherapy using flagellin related polypeptides
The use of flagellin and flagellin related polypeptides for reducing cancer treatment side effects in mammals is described.
US08580317B2 Compositions and methods for treating acne
This invention provides anti-acne kits that are useful for treating acne, especially severe cases of acne. The anti-acne kits include a vasoconstrictor and an anti-acne agent, and optionally one or more of a a skin lightening therapeutic, a sealing layer, a skin cleanser, an astringent, a skin penetration enhancer, a sunscreen, and nutritional supplements that promote healing of acne lesions. This invention also provides methods for treating acne using a vasoconstrictor in conjunction with an anti-acne agent.
US08580315B2 Anti-inflammatory activity of eggshell membrane and processed eggshell membrane preparations
The present invention relates to anti-inflammatory activity of eggshell membrane, processed eggshell membrane preparations and eggshell membrane isolates. The invention is directed to eggshell membrane compositions exhibiting anti-inflammatory activity as measured by effects on down-regulating pro-inflammatory plasma antigens in mammals that had orally ingested such compositions. This information supports the potential benefits from administration of naturally occurring material found in eggshell membrane, processed eggshell membrane, eggshell membrane isolates and combinations to reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
US08580313B2 Fexofenadine microcapsules and compositions containing them
The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising taste-masked immediate release microcapsules which comprise fexofenadine and a water-insoluble polymer coating. These microcapsules and the pharmaceutical compositions comprising them have suitable drug content and desirable pharmaceutical properties, including a quick dissolution rate of fexofenadine combined with a taste masking effect.
US08580312B2 Radiation therapy agent
Provided is a radiotherapeutic agent, including a composite particle, which is obtained by binding a molecule that specifically recognizes a target to a substrate particle including titanium peroxide, and which generates reactive oxygen through irradiation with a radiation. Further, because the radiotherapeutic agent contains the molecule that specifically recognizes a target, the radiotherapeutic agent has a function of accumulating in the target. The radiotherapeutic agent is capable of enhancing effects of radiotherapy, and is capable of reducing side effects on a living body to efficiently attack the target.
US08580310B2 Controlled release formulations having rapid onset and rapid decline of effective plasma drug concentrations
The invention is directed to oral modified/controlled release drug formulations which provide a rapid initial onset of effect and a prolonged duration of effect. Preferably, the peak concentration is lower than that provided by the reference standard for immediate release formulations of the drug, and the duration of effect falls rapidly at the end of the dosing interval.
US08580307B2 High glass transition temperature absorbable microspheres
Absorbable microspheres comprising a copolymer formed from greater than 80 to about 99 mole percent D,L-lactide, L(−)-lactide, D(+)-lactide, or meso-lactide and combinations thereof, and about 1 to less than 20 mole percent of a different second monomer selected from the group consisting of p-dioxanone and trimethylene carbonate and combinations thereof, said microspheres having a particle size ranging from about 5 to 2000 microns. Also described herein are formulations comprising such absorbable microspheres.
US08580303B2 Gastric retained gabapentin dosage form
A method of treatment for epilepsy and other disease states is described, which comprises the delivery of gabapentin in a gastric retained dosage form.
US08580299B2 Escalating dosing regimen for effecting weight loss and treating obesity
The present invention is drawn to novel topiramate compositions as well as methods for effecting weight loss, e.g., in the treatment of obesity and related conditions, including conditions associated with and/or caused by obesity per se. The present invention features an escalating dosing regimen adapted for the administration of topiramate and optionally a sympathomimetic agent such as phentermine or bupropion, in the treatment of obesity and related conditions.
US08580296B2 Pharmacokinetics of S-adenosylmethionine formulations
Compositions and methods to improve the pharmacokinetic profile of S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) are provided, as are methods of treating various disorders using SAMe formulations with improved pharmacokinetic profiles. More specifically, the invention is directed to methods of treating a disease or disorder in a subject and/or improving the nutritional status of a subject by administering formulations exhibiting improved pharmacokinetic profiles of exogenous SAMe. The method also includes the step of orally administering compositions of the invention to the subject once per day after overnight fast; that is prior to food intake in the morning.
US08580295B2 Carbohydrates mixture
A carbohydrate mixture for dietetic foods and pharmaceuticals is provided. The carbohydrate mixture comprises two different, substantially soluble carbohydrate components A and B, which remain undigested in the gastrointestinal tract and enter the large intestine without being resorbed. Carbohydrate component A may comprise at least one monosaccharide or of at least one oligosaccharide (disaccharide to hexasaccharide) or a mixture of two or more of these saccharides. Carbohydrate component B may comprise a polysaccharide (from heptasaccharide onwards) or a mixture of two or more polysaccharides. Carbohydrate component A=5 to 95 wt-% and carbohydrate component B=5 to 95 wt-% of the sum of the carbohydrate components A+B (=100 wt-%), and at least 80 wt-% of the carbohydrates/saccharides of both carbohydrate components have a prebiotic effect. The carbohydrate mixtures have not only a nutritive effect but they also stimulate health-promoting microorganisms present in the natural flora of the large intestine.
US08580293B2 Monolithic intravaginal rings comprising progesterone and methods of making and uses thereof
The present invention relates to monolithic intravaginal rings comprising progesterone, methods of making, and uses thereof. The intravaginal rings comprise progesterone, a polysiloxane elastomer, and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrocarbon or glycerol esters of a fatty acid.
US08580292B2 Sustained release intraocular implants and methods for treating ocular vasculopathies
Biocompatible intraocular implants include an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist and a polymer associated with the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist to facilitate release of the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist into an eye for an extended period of time. The alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions, such as an ocular vasculopathy or glaucoma, among others.
US08580290B2 Heparosan-based biomaterials and coatings and methods of production and use thereof
The presently claimed and disclosed invention relates to biomaterial compositions that include an isolated heparosan polymer. The presently claimed and disclosed invention also relates to kits containing such biomaterial compositions, as well as to methods of producing such biomaterial compositions. The presently claimed and disclosed invention further relates to methods of using such biomaterial compositions as surface coatings for implants as well as for augmenting tissues.
US08580286B2 Compositions and methods for the treatment of skin diseases
Provided herein are chemical matrices, compositions, methods and devices for the treatment of skin diseases and disorders in an individual. Described herein are non-homogenous chemical matrices and compositions comprising an alcohol selected from ethanol, isopropanol or n-propanol, at least one excipient, and, optionally, at least one pharmaceutical agent, wherein the alcohol is distributed within the chemical matrix as a microbubble. Additionally, methods are described for the use of said chemical matrices and compositions for the treatment of skin diseases and disorders.
US08580282B2 Dental anesthetic comprising tetracaine and a vasoconstrictor for intranasal administration
The present invention relates to tetracaine based anesthetic formulations and methods of use thereof. The invention further relates to topical formulations of tetracaine and methods of topically anesthetizing body tissues. The present invention also relates to tetracaine based dental anesthetic formulations and methods for anesthetizing the maxillary dental arch using these formulations.
US08580278B2 Nutraceutical composition and methods for preventing or treating multiple sclerosis
The present invention embraces nutraceutical compositions containing isolated Bacteroides fragilis capsular polysaccharide A for use in methods of preventing or treating multiple sclerosis.
US08580274B2 Drug transporter, and adjuvant and vaccine each utilizing same
An objective of the invention is to provide a drug delivery vehicle capable of allowing a vaccine or adjuvant to reach a target cell or tissue efficiently while being capable of improving the immunogenicity of the vaccine or capable of enhancing the immunostimulating effect of the adjuvant as well as a vaccine or adjuvant utilizing the same. Said drug delivery vehicle contains a multimeric protein having a coiled coil structure and a ligand molecule to a receptor of an immune cell.
US08580272B2 Compositions and methods for detection of antibodies specific for Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Aph) and Anaplasma platys (Apl)
The invention provides methods and compositions for the detection and treatment of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys infection.
US08580268B2 CpG oligonucleotide analogs containing hydrophobic T analogs with enhanced immunostimulatory activity
The invention relates to oligonucleotides including at least one lipophilic substituted nucleotide analog and a pyrimidine-purine dinucleotide. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use thereof.
US08580265B2 Antibody molecules which bind IL-17A and IL-17F
The invention relates to antibody molecules having specificity for antigenic determinants of both IL-17A and IL-17F, therapeutic uses of the antibody molecules and methods for producing said antibody molecules.
US08580256B2 Stabilized anti-hepatitis B (HBV) antibody formulations
The present invention provides liquid formulations of antibodies or fragments thereof that specifically bind to a hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigen, which formulations exhibit stability, low to undetectable levels of aggregations, and very little to no loss of the biological activities of the antibodies or antibody fragments, even during long periods of storage. Furthermore, the invention provides methods of preventing, treating or ameliorating one or more symptoms associated with HBV infection utilizing the liquid formulations of the present invention.
US08580252B2 Soluble glycosaminoglycanases and methods of preparing and using soluble glycosaminoglycanases
The invention relates to the discovery of novel soluble neutral active Hyaluronidase Glycoproteins (sHASEGPs), methods of manufacture, and their use to facilitate administration of other molecules or to alleviate glycosaminoglycan associated pathologies. Minimally active polypeptide domains of the soluble, neutral active sHASEGP domains are described that include asparagine-linked sugar moieties required for a functional neutral active hyaluronidase domain. Included are modified amino-terminal leader peptides that enhance secretion of sHASEGP. The invention further comprises sialated and pegylated form of a recombinant sHASEGP to enhance stability and serum pharmacokinetics over naturally occurring slaughterhouse enzymes. Further described are suitable formulations of a substantially purified recombinant sHASEGP glycoprotein derived from a eukaryotic cell that generate the proper glycosylation required for its optimal activity.
US08580251B2 PIM-3 kinase as a target for type 2 diabetes mellitus
The invention relates to isolated nucleic acid molecules and to host cells comprising such nucleic acid molecules. Moreover, the invention relates to a polypeptide having PIM-3 activity and having a definite amino acid sequence, as well as to the use of PIM-3 as a screening agent for identifying anti-type 2 diabetes mellitus drugs and for preparing a medicament for the treatment of insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes mellitus.
US08580249B2 Cell therapy for the treatment of lysosomal storage disorders
The present invention relates to methods for providing lysosomal enzymes to a subject by administering stem cells, preferably Multipotent Adult Progenitor Cells (MAPCs). The invention further relates to methods for treating lysosomal storage disorders by administering stem cells.
US08580248B2 Culture and use of cells that secrete liver secretory factors
The invention relates to an improved method of culturing hepatocyte cells and non-hepatocyte cells that are capable of secreting liver secretory factors and their use in implantable compositions for treating liver diseases and disorders in patients in need thereof.
US08580240B1 Compounds and methods for reducing the occurrence of post-surgical adhesions
Compounds and methods for reducing the occurrence of a post-surgical adhesion are provided. The compounds can include acrylic acid groups and ethylene glycol groups, and can be directed to an area of damaged tissue by the incorporation of a fibrin targeting peptide. The compounds can further include a brush-like portion, capable of creating a steric barrier between a damaged tissue or organ and adjacent tissues or organs, and a targeting portion, capable of directing the compounds to a damaged tissue or organ. Methods of detecting damaged tissue and kits are also provided.
US08580238B2 Cosmetic compositions of reactively blended copolymers
Provided are cosmetic and personal care compositions having film-formers that are two-phase polymers with a first phase polymer that is a maleated polymer where the maleic anhydride is pendant to the polymer and the second phase polymer is a polymer with complementary reactive groups. The two-phase polymer film former provides enhanced durability benefits for cosmetics, hair care, and skin care products.
US08580237B2 Hair styling composition
A hair styling composition comprising: i) an amino acid comprising an urea moiety in its side chain; ii) a solvent for component i).
US08580234B2 Method for removing solid product formed on surfaces of teeth
The invention provides a composition capable of exerting an excellent whitening effect and imparting gloss to teeth.A method for removing a solid product formed on surfaces of teeth, the method containing applying an oral composition to teeth, wherein the oral composition contains 0.05 to 18% by weight of phytic acid or a salt thereof, and contains no polyvalent cation or contains a polyvalent cation in an amount of less than 0.1 fold mol relative to phytic acid, and wherein the oral composition, as diluted with water to 30% by weight, has a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
US08580223B2 Methods and compositions for the separation of single-walled carbon nanotubes
Embodiments herein describe a composition including at least one water-soluble complex having a water-soluble separation agent including a planar portion, at least one pi electron on the planar portion and at least one electron withdrawing group; and a semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotube in an aqueous solution. Further embodiments describe a method of separating metallic single-walled carbon nanotubes and semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes including providing carbon nanotubes having an admixture of semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes and metallic single-walled carbon nanotubes; and combining the admixture with a water-soluble separation agent in an aqueous solution to form a mixture, in which the water-soluble separation agent includes a planar portion, at least one pi electron on the planar portion and at least one electron withdrawing group.
US08580220B2 Method for producing bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide salt, method for producing fluorosulfate, and method for producing bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide onium salt
According to the method for producing bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide salt of the present invention, the method for producing fluorosulfate, and the method for producing bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide onium salt, first, an aqueous solution is prepared by dissolving a mixed liquid containing bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide and fluorosulfonic acid in water. Then, the aqueous solution is neutralized with an alkaline compound, producing bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide salt and fluorosulfate. In the methods, bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide salt, fluorosulfate, and bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide onium salt can be obtained safely and easily.
US08580217B2 Insulating material for electrical machines
An insulating material for an electrical machine that insulates coiled windings is provided. The insulating material includes a carrier material and adhesive coatings on the front and back of the carrier material. The adhesive coatings are mounted and aligned on the front and back of the carrier material in such a way that in the carrier material in the insulation state a direct frictional connection is developed between the adhesive coatings on the front and back.
US08580216B2 Catalyst and method for reducing nitrogen oxides in exhaust streams with hydrocarbons or alcohols
A catalyst system and a method for reducing nitrogen oxides in an exhaust gas by reduction with a hydrocarbon or oxygen-containing organic compound reducing agent are provided. The catalyst system contains a silver catalyst and a modifier catalyst, where the modifier catalyst contains a modifier oxide, where the modifier oxide is selected from the group consisting of iron oxide, cerium oxide, copper oxide, manganese oxide, chromium oxide, a lanthanide oxide, an actinide oxide, molybdenum oxide, tin oxide, indium oxide, rhenium oxide, tantalum oxide, osmium oxide, barium oxide, calcium oxide, strontium oxide, potassium oxide, vanadium oxide, nickel oxide, tungsten oxide, and mixtures thereof. The modifier oxide is supported on an inorganic oxide support or supports, where at least one of the inorganic oxide supports is an acidic support. The catalyst system of the silver catalyst and the modifier catalyst provides higher NOx conversion than either the silver catalyst or the modifier catalyst alone.
US08580211B2 Microchannel with internal fin support for catalyst or sorption medium
An apparatus is described which comprises at least one process microchannel having a height, width and length, the height being up to about 10 mm, the process microchannel having a base wall extending in one direction along the width of the process microchannel and in another direction along the length of the process microchannel; at least one fin projecting into the process microchannel from the base wall and extending along at least part of the length of the process microchannel; and a catalyst or sorption medium supported by the fin.
US08580209B2 Microfluidic foil structure for metering of fluids
A microfluidic device meters liquids into a network of channels or chambers partly formed by a film partly attached to and above a substrate, the network permitting flow of fluid above the substrate. To form a channel or chamber, the edge zone between unattached and attached portions of the film forms a wedge of material by viscous flow of film material as the film is laminated to the substrate, this wedge forming a transition between the chamber wall and the substrate, raising the wall above the plane of the substrate. Film is laminated with a mask having an opening, the mask pressed onto the film under pressure and/or with heat. The film is brought to a temperature to produce a viscous flow of film and/or substrate medium into the region of the opening, forming a wedge of material as the film bulges up at the opening to form a chamber.
US08580207B2 Holding sealing material, exhaust gas purifying apparatus, and method for manufacturing holding sealing material
A holding sealing material includes a mat body. The mat body includes a first inorganic fiber and a second inorganic fiber. The first inorganic fiber contains about 60% by weight or more of alumina. The second inorganic fiber contains about 67% by weight or more of silica. The first inorganic fiber and the second inorganic fiber are in a mixed state.
US08580205B2 Method and apparatus for improving the efficiency of purification and deposition of polycrystalline silicon
Methods and apparatus for the commercial-scale production of purified polycrystalline silicon granules with one or more tailored levels of n- and p-type impurities from an impure silicon source such as, for example, metallurgical-grade silicon. Purification systems and methods involve: (1) one or more series of temperature controlled reactors or vessels provided with dual fluidized beds wherein solids and gases are transported so that varying degrees of purification and deposition of solid silicon is accomplished by strict control of temperature and residence time; (2) separation and recovery of the compounds of high-melting-point impurities such as, for example, FeSi and FeI2; (3) purification, separation, and recycling of silicon tetraiodide; (4) separation and recovery of iodide compounds of lower-boiling-point liquid impurities such as for example, AlI3, in a continuous fractional distillation column, facilitated by an iodine reflux; (5) separation and recovery of very fine solid particles including impurity iodides and elemental silicon in a liquid mixture downstream of a fractional distillation column; (6) recovery of input iodine from the oxidation of both solid and liquid iodide impurity waste streams from the process.
US08580203B2 Fluidized bed reactor
A fluidized bed reactor is disclosed. The fluidized bed reactor includes a head; a first body part connected with the head, located under the head, the first body part having a first reaction pipe provided therein; a second body part connected with the first body part, located under the first body part, the second body part having a second reaction pipe provided therein; and a bottom part connected with the second body part, located under the second body part, the bottom part having a flowing-gas supply nozzle, a reaction gas supply nozzle, a heater and an electrode assembled thereto.
US08580198B2 Automatic analyzer
An automatic analyzer analyzes a measurement item by making a sample and reagent react with each other and measuring the reaction result. This apparatus allows parameters associated with reagent dispensing executed by a reagent dispensing mechanism to be set as a dispensing condition for each measurement item or each type of reagent, and controls the reagent dispensing mechanism on the basis of the dispensing condition.
US08580197B2 Direct pipetting in computer-controlled liquid handling workstations
In a control method for a computer-controlled liquid handling workstation with a work surface, a motorized pipetting robot with at least one pipette, and a control computer, to which the pipetting robot is connected, a control program activated in the control computer enables the pipetting robot to position the pipette at specific positions on the work surface and to execute a specific action using the pipette. The interface includes an input mechanism, visualization mechanism, interface software, and an electronic memory. The visualization mechanism visualizes the positions at which containers are situated on the work surface of the liquid handling workstation and a selection of the specific actions executable using the pipettes.
US08580194B2 Device for optoelectronically characterizing samples
Device (1) for optoelectronically characterizing samples by means of electrochemiluminescence (ECL), in which an electric voltage applied across a counter electrode (6) and a working electrode (2) on which the sample spots are disposed excites the sample to luminescence and a reading of the luminescence is taken using an optoelectronic component, characterized in that the optoelectronic component comprises an image detection component (4) with a photoactive layer (10) made from organic semiconductors between two electrode layers (11,14).
US08580190B2 Durable iron-chromium-aluminum alloy showing minor changes in heat resistance
An iron-chromium-aluminum alloy having a long service life and exhibiting little change in heat resistance, comprising (as percentages by weight) 4.5 to 6.5% Al, 16 to 24% Cr, 1.0 to 4.0% W, 0.05 to 0.7% Si, 0.001 to 0.5% Mn, 0.02 to 0.1% Y, 0.02 to 0.1% Zr, 0.02 to 0.1% Hf, 0.003 to 0.030% C, 0.002 to 0.03% N, a maximum of 0.01% S, and a maximum of 0.5% Cu, the remainder being iron and the usual steel production-related impurities.
US08580185B2 Aluminum boron carbide composite and method to form said composite
An improved aluminum-boron carbide (ABC) composite has been discovered that is comprised of a continuous network of AlB24C4 and boron carbide grains having therein other isolated aluminum-boron carbide reactive phases and at most 2% by volume of isolated metal. The improved ABC composite may be formed by forming boron carbide particulates into a porous body that has a porosity of at most about 35%, where the boron particulates have been heat treated to a temperature of 1200° C. to 1800° C., infiltrating the porous body with aluminum or aluminum alloy until an infiltrated aluminum-boron carbide body is formed that has at most about 1% porosity, heat treating the infiltrated body for at least 25 hours at 1000° C. to 1100° C. to form an aluminum boron carbide composite having a continuous network of AlB24C4 and boron carbide, and subsequently heat-treating to 700° C. to 900° C. to form the improved aluminum boron carbide composite.
US08580176B2 Method of producing composite or bonded metal components
A system for producing composite or bonded metal components including: first and second pressure chambers, each pressure chamber having an elastically deformable chamber wall; means for circulating fluid at an elevated temperature and pressure through each said pressure chamber; and at least one mould assembly including at least one separate mould section providing a mould cavity within which a composite or bonded metal lay-up can be located; wherein when the system is in use, the pressure chambers are held together with the elastically deformable chamber walls located in opposing relation, the at least one mould assembly containing a said lay- up being accommodated between the chamber walls while fluid at elevated temperature and pressure is circulated through each pressure chamber such that the lay-up can be compressed and cured or formed.
US08580169B2 Fibre matrix and a method of making a fibre matrix
A method of forming a three dimensional fiber structure is disclosed which comprises the steps of a) providing a starting material which comprises liquid carrier, fibers and binder; b) passing the starting material over a substrate so as to deposit fibers onto the substrate; c) forming a three dimensional fiber matrix; and d) curing the binder. The flow of material onto the substrate may be controlled such that the flow of a starting material over the substrate is chaotic and fibers are laid down in a three dimensional structure containing a high proportion of voids. The preform may be pressurized while moist and is cured under pressure. The fibers may comprise carbon fibers; recycled carbon fiber has been found to be particularly useful. The resulting preform may be stochastic and is suitable for use in ablative and braking applications.
US08580167B2 Lyocell method comprising an adjustment of the processing duration based on the degree of polymerization
The invention relates to a method and a device for producing Lyocell fibers which are extruded from a cellulose solution of water, cellulose and tertiary amine oxide in a spinning head (25). The cellulose solution is obtained in a number of process steps directly from the cellulose (3, 4) or with the formation of a cellulose suspension. Since the degree of polymerization decreases in the course of processing the cellulose through to its extrusion in the cellulose solution, with the processing of celluloses with a low degree of polymerization there is the risk that the endless molded bodies (2) extruded in the spinning head (25) exhibit defective quality. In order to also be able to process celluloses (3, 4) with a low degree of polymerization without having to accept reduced quality, according to the invention, the residence time of the cellulose from its introduction into the device (1) through to the extrusion of the cellulose (3, 4) in the cellulose solution is set in dependence of the degree of polymerization of the cellulose, of the cellulose suspension and/or of the cellulose solution.
US08580166B2 Blow moulding machine with arrangement for cleaning the blow mould
An apparatus for transforming plastic preforms into containers, includes at least one blow mould which forms a cavity, inside which the plastic preforms can be transformed into containers. The apparatus includes an opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the blow mould, and a cleaning device for cleaning regions of the blow mould. The cleaning device includes at least a first cleaning element for cleaning an inner wall of the blow mould, which cleaning element is arranged at least at times outside the blow mould.
US08580155B2 Method for producing electrode material, electrode material, electrode and battery
Disclosed is a method for producing an electrode material which has high discharge capacity at high charge/discharge rate and enables to realize sufficient charge/discharge rate performance. Also disclosed are an electrode material, an electrode and a lithium ion battery. Specifically disclosed is a method for producing an electrode material, which is characterized in that a slurry containing an electrode active material or a precursor of the electrode active material, and organic compounds each selected from at least two groups among the group A, group B and group C is sprayed and dried for forming a granule, and the thus-formed granule is fired at a temperature not less than 500° C. but not more than 1000° C. in a non-oxidizing atmosphere.
US08580154B2 Quaternary ammonium salts as a conversion coating or coating enhancement
Disclosed are quaternary ammonium salts containing non-halogen anions such as carbonates, bicarbonates, phosphates, glycolates and mixtures thereof as conversion coatings or additives imparting anti-corrosive properties to paints. The invention relates to a method for inhibiting the corrosion of metal surfaces by applying a composition containing one or more quaternary ammonium carbonate or bicarbonate. The disclosure is also directed to anti-corrosive coatings for metal substrates containing these compounds and to metal substrates having these anticorrosive coatings.
US08580152B2 Methods for gasification of carbonaceous materials
The present disclosure is generally directed to process of gasification of carbonaceous materials to produce synthesis gas or syngas. The present disclosure provides improved methods of gasification comprising adding a molecular oxygen-containing gas and optionally adding water into said gasifier. This disclosure is also directed to process of production of one or more alcohols from said syngas via fermentation or digestion in the presence of at least one microorganism.
US08580149B2 Barium iodide and strontium iodide crystals and scintillators implementing the same
In one embodiment, a material comprises a crystal comprising strontium iodide providing at least 50,000 photons per MeV. A scintillator radiation detector according to another embodiment includes a scintillator optic comprising europium-doped strontium iodide providing at least 50,000 photons per MeV. A scintillator radiation detector in yet another embodiment includes a scintillator optic comprising SrI2 and BaI2, wherein a ratio of SrI2 to BaI2 is in a range of between 0:1 A method for manufacturing a crystal suitable for use in a scintillator includes mixing strontium iodide-containing crystals with a source of Eu2+, heating the mixture above a melting point of the strontium iodide-containing crystals, and cooling the heated mixture near the seed crystal for growing a crystal. Additional materials, systems, and methods are presented.
US08580147B2 Liquid crystal compound, liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal compound represented by formula (1-1). For example, R1 and R2 are independently hydrogen, alkyl having 1 to 10 carbons, alkenyl having 2 to 10 carbons, alkoxy having 1 to 9 carbons, alkoxyalkyl having 2 to 9 carbons or alkenyloxy having 2 to 9 carbons; the ring A1 is trans-1,4-cyclohexylene, 1,4-cyclohexenylene, 1,3-dioxane-2,5-diyl, pyrimidine-2,5-diyl or pyridine-2,5-diyl; L1 and L2 are independently hydrogen or fluorine, and at least one of them is fluorine; and Z1, Z2 and Z3 are independently a single bond, —(CH2)2—, —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —COO— or —OCO—.
US08580146B2 Liquid crystal compound, liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal compound having a high stability to heat, light or the like, a wide temperature range of a nematic phase, a small viscosity, a suitable optical anisotropy, a large elastic constant K33, a large negative dielectric anisotropy and an excellent compatibility with other liquid crystal compounds. Also, a liquid crystal composition having characteristics similar to these of the compound. Additionally, a liquid crystal display device having a short response time, low electric power consumption, a low driving voltage, a large contrast and a wide temperature range in which the device can be used.The compound is a 2,3-difluorobenzene derivative (1) having a combination of a cyclohexane ring, a cyclohexene ring or a benzene ring phenyl and a butene bonding group. The liquid crystal composition includes this compound, and the liquid crystal display device contains this composition.
US08580145B2 Liquid crystalline polyester and process for producing same
A liquid crystalline polyester has a specifically high fluidity, a low anisotropy, a high toughness, a low gas property, an excellent heat resistance and a high dielectric breakdown resistance. The liquid crystalline polyester includes 38 to 74 mol % of structural unit(s) obtained from a hydroxycarboxylic acid, 31 to 13 mol % of a structural unit obtained from 4,4′-dihydroxybiphenyl and 31 to 13 mol % of a structural unit obtained from 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (100 mol % in total), characterized in that the hydroxycarboxylic acid structural units include a structural unit obtained from 2-hydroxy-6-naphthoic acid in an amount of 89 mol % or more and the average sequence length of the structural unit obtained from 2-hydroxy-6-naphthoic acid is 0.1 to 1.
US08580141B2 Stearic acid-treated calcium carbonate compositions having low or no detectable free stearic acid and related methods
A method for treating calcium carbonate includes combining calcium carbonate with an amount of stearic acid and an amount of water to form a mixture, the amount of water being at least about 0.1% by weight relative to the total weight. The method further includes blending the mixture to form a stearic acid-treated calcium carbonate composition.
US08580136B2 Etching solution composition for metal thin film consisting primarily of copper
The problem of the present invention is to provide an etching solution composition that can etch with high accuracy a metal-laminated film pattern comprising thin films of copper and a copper alloy, can form an excellent pattern shape, and has practically excellent and stable characteristics with long solution life, and to provide an etching method using such etching solution composition. The present invention relates to an etching method for etching a metal-laminated film having a layer consisting of copper and a layer consisting of a copper alloy containing copper, using an etching solution composition comprising phosphoric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid and water, as well as to said etching solution composition.
US08580134B2 Nanotextured cobalt-chromium alloy articles having high wettability and method of producing same
The present invention relates to articles comprising a cobalt-chromium alloy and bearing a surface oxide layer that has a thickness of 20 to 40 Å, is enriched in chromium relative to said article, and includes a plurality of indentions that, independently, have a diameter of from about 40 to about 500 nm. Such articles can be suitable for implantation in a mammal.
US08580132B2 Method for making strip shaped graphene layer
A method for making a strip shaped graphene layer includes the steps of: first, a graphene film is located on a surface of a substrate is provided. Second, a drawn carbon nanotube film composite is disposed on the graphene film. The drawn carbon nanotube film composite includes a polymer material and a drawn carbon nanotube film structure disposed in the polymer material. The drawn carbon nanotube film structure includes a plurality of carbon nanotube segments and a plurality of strip-shaped gaps between the adjacent carbon nanotube segments. Third, the polymer material is partly removed to expose the plurality of carbon nanotube segments. Forth, the plurality of carbon nanotube segments and the graphene film covered by the plurality of carbon nanotube segments is etched. Fifth, the remained polymer material is removed to obtain the strip shaped graphene layer.
US08580128B2 Method of manufacturing electromagnetic-wave shielding plate, electromagnetic-wave shielding plate manufactured thereby, and filter display using the same
To provide an electromagnetic-wave shielding plate superior in an electromagnetic-wave shielding property, a light-transmitting property and non-visibility of a mesh pattern at low cost. A pattern of a resin layer is printed on a metal layer of a transparent substrate by a printing method. After that, the metal layer is over-etched with the resin layer used as an etching mask, and a part of the resin layer protruding from the remaining metal layer in a plate-surface direction is removed. As a result, an electromagnetic-wave shielding plate superior in an electromagnetic-wave shielding property and non-visibility and having, for example, a pattern line width of 3 μm or more and 25 μm or less.
US08580124B2 Switchable hydrophilicity solvents and methods of use thereof
A solvent that reversibly converts from a hydrophobic liquid form to hydrophilic liquid form upon contact with water and a selected trigger, e.g., contact with CO2, is described. The hydrophilic liquid form is readily converted back to the hydrophobic liquid form and water. The hydrophobic liquid is an amidine or amine. The hydrophilic liquid form comprises an amidinium salt or an ammonium salt.
US08580120B2 Reduction in flushing volume in an adsorptive separation system
A process for separating a product from a multicomponent feedstream to an adsorption apparatus or system is described. The apparatus or system may comprise a moving-bed or a simulated moving-bed adsorption means. The product comprises at least one organic compound, such as an aryl compound with alkyl substitutes. In embodiments the conduits used to supply the feedstream to the apparatus or system are flushed with media of multiple grades. The improvement is a more efficient use of the desorbent. In embodiments the process achieves improvements in one or more of efficiency of adsorption separation, capacity of adsorption apparatus systems, and purity of product attainable by adsorption process.
US08580118B2 Water softener system using nanofiltration to reclaim a portion of the regenerating sodium chloride
A water softening system includes apparatus and process that recycles a substantial percentage of the brine. This system conventionally includes a brine tank and a softening tank through which hard water from a source passes during normal operation. During the regeneration cycle, the brine solution in the brine tank passes through the softening tank acquiring hardness ions, and then through a nanofilter that passes a much higher proportion of the brine ions than the hardness ions. The hardness ions flow from the upstream end of the nanofilter into a drain. The liquid passing through the nanofilter contains salt that returns to the brine tank for reuse. A preferred embodiment includes a pump to force the brine solution through the nanofilter and a throttling valve connecting the upstream side of the nanofilter to a drain, and through which the hardness ions flow.
US08580115B2 Method for cleaning filtration membrane modules and membrane bioreactor system for treating untreated water or wastewater or activated sludge
A method of cleaning filtration modules for the treatment of raw water, or wastewater, or activated sludge, is provided by circulating particles in untreated water. The deposits located on the filter membrane outer surfaces are removed by the mechanical action of the particles, without significantly damaging the membrane. Initially, untreated water, wastewater, or activated sludge is chemically-mechanically pretreated. Then the untreated water or wastewater polluted with biologically active material is discharged into a membrane bioreactor system having a filtration unit including at least one filtration tank. At least one submerged filtration membrane module is present in the filtration tank. The untreated water or wastewater in this filtration tank is filled with particles and circulates inside the filtration tank. The particles are non-porous, biologically resistant polymer particles. Alternatively, a cleaning tank including a circulating fluid containing particles may be provided for the temporary accommodation of the filtration module.
US08580114B2 Processes for remediation of contaminant plumes
When a large-scale contaminant plume is located under a surface area with conditions that prevent placement of a network of injection and associated extraction wells, embodiments of the invention may be used to pump a specific volume of the contaminant plume to at least one remote in-situ treatment cell, comprising at least one injection well surrounded by a plurality of associated extraction wells, where each extraction well is less than 300 feet from the associated injection well, and has a treatment zone with treatment reagent between injection and associated extraction wells.
US08580113B2 Method for utilizing internally generated biogas for closed membrane system operation
In an anaerobic membrane bioreactor (“MBR”), a closed anaerobic process tank contains a membrane filter or is connected to an external tank containing a membrane filter. A pocket of biogas accumulates at the top of the process tank. Biogas is taken from the pocket, pumped to the bottom of the membrane filter to provide bubbles to inhibit membrane fouling, and returned to the pocket. Excess biogas produced as the wastewater is degraded is removed from the system and may be used as a product. However, biogas and liquid are maintained in the system at a pressure above atmospheric, for example 10 kPa or more above atmospheric pressure, sufficient to provide at least a material contribution to the transmembrane pressure driving permeation through the membranes. The overall energy requirements of the system may be reduced. Further, with sufficient pressure, suction pumps attached to the membranes may not be required.
US08580112B2 Dialysis systems and methods
This disclosure generally relates to dialysis systems and related methods. In one aspect of the invention, a dialysis system includes a device configured so that a medical fluid can pass therethrough, and the device is adapted to remove one or more substances from the medical fluid as the medical fluid passes through the device. The dialysis system can also include a sodium control system adapted to alter a sodium concentration of the medical fluid.
US08580108B2 Hydroprocessing of high nitrogen feed using bulk catalyst
Methods are provided for hydrotreating high nitrogen feeds with improved results for nitrogen removal, aromatic saturation, and/or sulfur removal. The method includes hydrotreating the feed with a supported hydrotreating catalyst followed by a bulk metal catalyst, the hydrotreated effluent of which can be suitable for use as a feed to an FCC reactor.
US08580107B2 Process for removing sulfur from vacuum gas oil
A process for removing a sulfur compound from a vacuum gas oil feed includes contacting the vacuum gas oil feed comprising the sulfur compound with a VGO-immiscible ionic liquid to produce a vacuum gas oil and VGO-immiscible ionic liquid mixture, and separating the mixture to produce a vacuum gas oil effluent having a reduced sulfur content relative to the vacuum gas oil feed.
US08580105B2 Development process of an ecological binder system for refractories mixes
The invention presented here deals with getting one of the raw materials of a new refractory binder system, the modified coal-tar pitch starting with heating the coal-tar, according to the specific distillation curve, later reaching a final distillation temperature of around 470° C., resulting in getting a final compound with a concentration of benzo(a)pyrene in the order of 600 ppm, together with the mixture of other raw materials for the composition of the binder system, such as anthracene oil (AO), soybean oil, linseed oil, castor oil, diesel oil, rapeseed oil, biodiesel, biopitch (Vegetable tar), paraffin, dextrin (corn starch), stearine, paraffin, vegetable waxes (cupuassu seed, shea nut, murumuru palm waxes), phenolic resins, furane resins, urethanes, epoxy, vinyl chloride, polyethylene and ethyl polyterephthalate.
US08580103B2 Electrolyte solution and electrochemical surface modification methods
An aqueous electrolyte solution including a concentration of citric acid in the range of about 1.6 g/L to about 982 g/L and an effective concentration of ammonium bifluoride (ABF), and being substantially free of a strong acid. Methods of treating the surface of a non-ferrous metal workpiece include exposing the surface to a bath of an aqueous electrolyte solution including a concentration of citric acid less than or equal to about 300 g/L and a concentration of ammonium bifluoride greater than or equal to about 10 g/L, and having no more than about 3.35 g/L of a strong acid, controlling the temperature of the bath to be greater than or equal to about 54° C., connecting the workpiece to the anode of a DC power supply and immersing a cathode of the DC power supply in the bath, and applying a current across the bath.
US08580099B2 InN nanowire based multifunctional nanocantilever sensors
Sensor are generally provided that include a layer of silicon oxide on a portion of a n+ layer to form an uneven surface where the layer of silicon oxide defines a thicker region than an exposed portion of the n+ layer. First and second metal contacts can be on the layer of silicon oxide, with first and second nanowires extending respectively from a first base on the first metal contact and a second base on the second metal contact. The first nanowire and the second nanowire are connected together at an apex to form a v-shaped nanocantilever, wherein the apex is positioned over the exposed n+ layer, and wherein the nanowires comprise indium and nitrogen. Methods of fabricating such sensors, along with methods of their use, are also generally provided.
US08580096B2 Bioprocess utilizing carbon dioxide and electrodeionization
A method for producing succinic acid is provided, which comprises circulating a fermentation broth containing succinate ion through an electrodeionization apparatus. The apparatus comprises an anode; a cathode; a stacked ion-exchange assembly comprising a one or more oriented ion-exchange units between the anode and the cathode. Each ion-exchange unit comprises a porous ion-exchange resin wafer including an inlet and an outlet together are adapted to circulate a liquid reaction stream containing a carboxylate anion from a fermentor through the resin wafer; a flow-distributing gasket for circulating a product stream through a product reservoir; an anion exchange membrane for transporting at least a portion of the carboxylate anion to the product stream; and a bipolar ion-exchange membrane to direct protons toward the cathode and into the product stream and to direct hydroxyl ions toward the anode and into the reaction stream in the resin wafer of an adjacent ion-exchange unit.
US08580095B2 Sensor element having improved thermal properties for determining a gas component
A sensor element for determining a gas component in a measuring gas includes a first and a second electrode, a solid electrolyte situated between the electrodes, a heater having a heating element, and an insulation surrounding the heating element, wherein the heating element has a meander pattern having a first external heating area, a second external heating area, a first internal heating area, and a second internal heating area.
US08580093B2 AL-Ni-La-Cu alloy sputtering target and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention provides a technique capable of decreasing a generation of splashing upon depositing by using an Al—Ni—La—Cu alloy sputtering target comprising Ni, La, and Cu. The invention relates to an Al—Ni—La—Cu alloy sputtering target comprising Ni, La and Cu, in which (1) a total area of an Al—Ni intermetallic compound mainly comprising Al and Ni and having an average grain size of 0.3 μm or more and 3 μm or less is 70% or more by area ratio based on an entire area of the Al—Ni intermetallic compound, and (2) a total area of an Al—La—Cu intermetallic compound mainly comprising Al, La and Cu and having an average grain size of 0.2 μm or more and 2 μm or less is 70% or more by area ratio based on an entire area of the Al—La—Cu intermetallic compound, in a case where a portion of the sputtering target is observed within a range of from ¼t (t: thickness) to ¾t along a cross section vertical to a plane of the sputtering target by using a scanning electron microscope at a magnification of 2000.
US08580092B2 Adjustable process spacing, centering, and improved gas conductance
Embodiments of the invention generally provide a process kit for use in a physical deposition chamber (PVD) chamber. In one embodiment, the process kit provides adjustable process spacing, centering between the cover ring and the shield, and controlled gas flow between the cover ring and the shield contributing to uniform gas distribution, which promotes greater process uniformity and repeatability along with longer chamber component service life.
US08580091B2 Multi-layer mixed metal oxide electrode and method for making same
A composition and method of manufacture of electrodes having controlled electrochemical activity to allow the electrodes to be designed for a variety of electro-oxidation processes. The electrodes are comprised of a compact coating deposited onto a conductive substrate, the coating being formed as multiple layers of a mixture of one or more platinum group metal oxides and one or more valve metal oxides. The formation of multiple layers allows the concentrations of platinum group metal and valve metal to be varied for each layer as desired for an application. For example, an electrode structure can be manufactured for use as an anode in electroplating processes, such that the oxidation of the organic additives in the electrolyte is markedly inhibited. Another electrode can be manufactured to operate at high anodic potentials in aqueous electrolytes to generate strong oxidants, e.g., hydrogen peroxide or ozone.
US08580086B2 High concentration NO2 generating system and method for generating high concentration NO2 using the generating system
A high concentration NO2 gas generating system including a circulating path configured by connecting a chamber, a plasma generator, and a circulating means, wherein NO2 is generated by circulating a gas mixture including nitrogen and oxygen in the circulating path is provided. The high concentration NO2 gas generating system provides a high concentration NO2 generating system and the high concentration NO2 generating method using the generating system by which NO2 of high concentration (approximately 500 ppm or above) required for a high level of sterilization process in such as sterilization of medical instruments can be simply and selectively obtained. In addition, since indoor air is used as an ingredient, the management of ingredients is simple and highly safe, and the high concentration of NO2 can be simply and selectively prepared on demand.
US08580080B2 Process for producing bulky paper with concavo-convex pattern
The present invention relates to a process for producing a bulky paper with a concavo-convex pattern consisting of low density regions with a high degree of expansion of the heat-expanding particles and high density regions with a low degree of expansion of the heat-expanding particles, comprising: making a wet mixed sheet having heat-expanding particles uniformly dispersed in fibers from a paper-making material prepared by dispersing a fiber starting material and heat-expanding particles in water; then spraying prescribed sections of the wet mixed sheet with moist hot air or water vapor at above the initial expansion temperature of the heat-expanding particles to cause expansion of the heat-expanding particles at those sections; and then drying at a temperature at which the heat-expanding particles do not fully expand. The process allows free designing of concavo-convex sections on bulky papers.
US08580075B2 Method and system for introduction of an active material to a chemical process
A method and system of for introducing an active material to a chemical process in which a processing element including a passive component and an active element is installed within the system and exposed to a chemical process performed within the system. As the chemical process proceeds, the passive component erodes and thereby exposes the active component embedded therein. The introduction of the active component to the chemical process alters the chemical process.
US08580073B2 Hot melt adhesive compositions and methods for their preparation and use
A hot melt adhesive composition can be used to laminate substrates together in construction industry and industrial maintenance and assembly applications. The hot melt adhesive composition is sprayable to form a thin layer (1 to 200 microns in thickness) on a substrate. The hot melt adhesive can cure by exposure to moisture or harden by cooling, or a combination thereof.
US08580072B2 Process for producing a device for the intake or manipulation of a liquid
A device for the intake or manipulation of a fluid, in particular, a liquid, and a method for the production of a device of this type in which a flat, non-preformed covering film is laminated onto a carrier, a three-dimensionally shaped or convex chamber wall being formed solely by means of the laminating process. The chamber wall which forms a boundary of a chamber for the fluid is partially deformable. The device is simple to produce and can be used universally.
US08580071B2 Method for joining composite structural members using thermal spreader
An apparatus for forming a structural member includes a tool platform and a pressure platform that may be movable relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. The apparatus may include a tool against which the member may be pressed. The tool may be supported by the tool platform and may have an inner surface. The apparatus may include a pressure bladder configured to be pressurized for applying pressure to the member. The pressure bladder may be supported by the pressure platform for pressing the member against the tool. Also included may be a heating system for heating the tool and a tool liner in thermal contact with the inner surface for distributing heat thereto.
US08580067B2 Thermo-sealing control method and packaging for resealable packaging
A packaging and method for controlling the seal strength between two cooperating thermo-sealable films at predetermined sealing portions, where a predetermined amount of heat is applied over a predetermined period of time. The resulting packaging is resealable after the first separation of two surfaces. The strength of the seal controlled by defining the number and dimensions of a plurality of restricted areas without a material cover that is resistant to the thermo-seal effect. The restricted area can be defined with a plurality of dots of predetermined selected shapes and dimensions. The resulting article facilitates the rupture of the packaging along a predetermined path. With this process, a fixed predetermined heat and residency time can be chosen and the seal strength can still be varied in different areas of a packaging. Non-sealable microdots with a predetermined amount of adhesive deposits also covered by a polypropylene powder deposit permit its resealing.
US08580059B2 Method and device for separating and removing rigid core for building tire
A method for separating and removing a rigid core when building a tire. When the rigid core body is to be separated and removed from the inside of the tire, the method includes removing a core holding mechanism and upper and lower support plates; transferring the tire to a support table; raising a second core separation/removal mechanism; horizontally pulling a first type of segment groups until separated from the inner surface of the tire; lowering the first type of the segment groups below the support table; lowering a first core separation/removal mechanism to the center of the height position of the rigid core body; horizontally pulling the second type of the segment groups until they are separated from the inner surface of the tire; transferring a second type of the segment groups with a second core separation/removal mechanism, and conveying the tire to the subsequent process.
US08580057B2 Apparatus and method for ultrasonic processing of a fibrous web
An apparatus and a method for ultrasonic processing improved so as to prevent a fibrous web from being disfigured due to the ultrasonic processing. In an apparatus to ultrasonically process a fibrous web running in a machine direction MD, a first mechanical element defined by one of an ultrasonic horn and an anvil and a second mechanical element defined by the other of the ultrasonic horn and the anvil are moved forward or backward in a direction crossing the machine direction MD so as to pass transversely across the fibrous web.
US08580055B2 Mixtures and emulsions to reduce energy in gypsum wallboard manufacture
Provided herein are mixtures, emulsions and other additives for use in manufacturing gypsum wallboard. The mixtures and emulsions may be wax-based emulsions or wax-free mixtures or emulsions, with wax-based emulsions including water; at least one wax, a dispersant which may include sulfur or a sulfur-containing group, and a particular wetting agent or surfactant. Mixtures may also be prepared including water, a dispersant, and a particular wetting agent or surfactant. Gypsum slurries may be prepared using such emulsions and mixtures.
US08580048B2 Steel material composition for producing piston rings and cylinder sleeves
The invention relates to a steel material composition, in particular for producing piston rings and cylinder sleeves, containing the following elements in the given fractions in relation to 100% by weight of the steel material: 0.5-1.2% by weight C, 6.0-20.0% by weight Cr, 45.0-88.5% by weight Fe, 3.0-15.0% by weight Mn and 2.0-10.0% by weight Si. Said composition can be produced by melting the starting materials and casting the melt in a pre-fabricated mold.
US08580045B2 Method and apparatus for physical confinement of a liquid meniscus over a semiconductor wafer
Systems, methods and apparatus for making a chemical head including forming a first return chamber in the chemical head, forming a second return chamber in the chemical head, forming a plurality of first return conduits from a head surface to the first return chamber, forming a plurality of second return conduits from a head surface to the second return chamber and wherein at least one of the first return conduits and the second return conduits being formed at a first angle relative to the head surface, the first angle being greater than about 20 degrees to a meniscus plane normal.
US08580044B2 Apparatus for agitating and evacuating byproduct dust from a semiconductor processing chamber
A system and method for semiconductor processing chamber includes a housing that can cover an annular gap of a pedestal well of the semiconductor processing chamber. A cleaning nozzle is removably coupled to a compressed dry air (CDA) supply. The cleaning nozzle can inject the CDA into the pedestal well while the housing can contain a byproduct dust agitated by the injected CDA. The byproduct dust is evacuated by at least one vacuum port that is removably coupled to a vacuum source.
US08580042B2 Methods and apparatus for cleaning semiconductor wafers
An apparatus for cleaning and conditioning the surface of a semiconductor substrate such as wafer includes a rotatable chuck, a chamber, a rotatable tray for collecting cleaning solution with one or more drain outlets, multiple receptors for collecting multiple cleaning solutions, a first motor to drive chuck, and a second motor to drive the tray. The drain outlet in the tray can be positioned directly above its designated receptor located under the drain outlet. The cleaning solution collected by the tray can be guided into designated receptor. One characteristic of the apparatus is having a robust and precisely controlled cleaning solution recycle with minimum cross contamination.
US08580039B2 Surface treatment method of metal member and cleaning nozzle
A surface treatment method of a metal member according to an embodiment of the invention includes removing an oily substance on the metal member by using gas-liquid two fluids that are obtained by boiling heated and pressured water under ordinary pressure. A surface treatment device of a metal member for removing an oily substance on the metal member includes self-generation two fluids production means for producing gas-liquid two fluids by boiling heated and pressured water under ordinary pressure, and a surface treatment room carrying out a surface treatment by bringing the self-generation two fluids into contact with the metal member.
US08580038B2 Process for the recovery of a fermentation product
The present invention provides a process for the purification and concentration of a partially water-soluble organic product from a source containing the same at concentration C0, which process comprises the steps of: (i) concentrating said product by means of a resin to form a first aqueous solution at concentration of C1; and (ii) fractionating an aqueous solution by temperature adjustment to form a second aqueous solution and a third aqueous solution with concentrations C2 and C3, respectively, wherein C2>C3 and C2>C1>C0.
US08580036B2 Method and apparatus for refining a molten material
The method and apparatus includes a vessel having a bottom and sidewalls arranged to house the material in a molten state. A temperature controlled horizontally oriented, cooling plate is movable into and out of the top of the molten material. When the cooling plate is lowered into the top of the melt, an ingot of solid silicon is solidified downwards.
US08580032B2 Method for manufacturing single crystal
In consideration of influence of segregation, an evaporation area of a volatile dopant and influence of a pulling-up speed at the time of manufacturing a monocrystal by use of a monocrystal pulling-up device, an evaporation speed formula for calculating an evaporation speed of the dopant is derived. At a predetermined timing during pulling-up, gas flow volume and inner pressure in a chamber are controlled such that a cumulative evaporation amount of the dopant, calculated based on the evaporation speed formula, becomes a predetermined amount. A difference between a resistivity profile of the monocrystal predicted based on the evaporation speed formula and an actual resistivity profile is made small. Since no volatile dopant is subsequently added, increase in workload on an operator, increase of manufacturing time, an increase in amorphous adhering to the inside of the chamber, and an increase in workload at the time of cleaning the inside of the chamber can be prevented.
US08580030B2 Concrete mix having anti-efflorescence properties and method of making concrete using the same
A concrete mix useful for producing concrete products having anti-efflorescence properties and a method for making such concrete products are provided. The concrete mix includes a hydraulic cement binder, aggregates and as an additive an ultrafine particulate material including carrier particles being surface treated with an efflorescence control agent. The method for making concrete includes a first step of mixing the hydraulic cement binder, aggregates, water and the ultrafine particulate material, a second step of pouring the mixture so obtained into a form, and a third step of curing the mixture.
US08580029B2 Reduction of carbon dioxide in the manufacturing of composite construction materials
Disclosed are a system, a method and/or composition of reduction of carbon dioxide in the manufacturing of cement and concrete. In one embodiment, a method of producing a concrete, includes preparing a dried powder mixture of an alkali hydroxide, a sodium silicate, clay and a pozzolanic material. The dried powder with water may be reacted to form a cement paste. In addition, the cement paste may be mixed with at one of sand, an aggregate, a plasticizer and a nano additive to form the concrete.
US08580026B2 Precursor sol of aluminum oxide, optical member, and method for producing optical member
A precursor sol of aluminum oxide contains a polycondensate formed by the hydrolysis of an aluminum alkoxide or an aluminum salt, a solvent, and an organic aluminum compound of general formula (1): wherein R1 and R2 each represent an alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a perfluoroalkyl group, or an allyl group; R3 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a perfluoroalkyl group, an allyl group, or an aryl group; and n represents an integer of 1 to 3. An optical member is produced by a process including a step of immersing an aluminum oxide film in a hot water with a temperature of 60 ° C. to 100 °C. to form a textured structure made of aluminum oxide crystals, the aluminum oxide film being formed by feeding the precursor sol of aluminum oxide onto a base. A method for producing an optical member includes a step of immersing an aluminum oxide film in a hot water with a temperature of 60 ° C. to 100 ° C. to form a textured structure made of aluminum oxide crystals, the aluminum oxide film being formed by feeding the precursor sol of aluminum oxide onto a base.
US08580022B1 Portable air purification device
The portable air purification device provides extreme portability such that the device can be placed virtually anywhere desired. Should an area need the device, one person can easily transport as needed. Also important is the separability of the vacuum canister and filtration canister. Often it may be advantageous to place the vacuum canister strategically, and the filtration canister supplying purified air in another location. The device provides for such via the separate canisters and the transfer hose, which can be almost any length needed. The device uses liquid filtration media, solid filtration media, and a HEPA filter.
US08580019B2 Apparatus and method of optimized acid gas and toxic metal control in gasifier produced gases
An apparatus and method is presented for removing acid gases and other trace contaminants to very low levels in combustible gases generated from thermal gasification of biomass or refuse-derived fuels. The invention includes optimization of geometric variables, temperature and pressure set points via use of a pressurized bubbling fluidized bed reactor to convert granular raw (non-activated) sorbents and auto-generated biochar sorbents) into activated, highly dispersed, and ideally sized particles for removing acid gases and toxic metals. The system can incorporate a generated gas cooler, a gas-sorbent contact chamber or zone, and a novel filter (with or without additional gas cooling and residence time stages).
US08580018B2 Recovery of greenhouse gas and pressurization for transport
A system for isolating a greenhouse gas from an exhaust gas includes a vessel having an inlet to receive an exhaust gas, and an outlet to discharge a process stream, an adsorbent contained in the vessel to selectively adsorb the greenhouse gas from the exhaust gas under suitable conditions, and a heat source to heat the adsorbent and desorb the adsorbed greenhouse gas therefrom to produce a process stream of greenhouse gas for release through the outlet.
US08580014B1 Method utilizing international organization for standardization container filter house
A method of using a modular International Organization for Standardization (ISO) filter house for filtering process fluids is provided. The filter house includes a self-contained rectangular cuboid enclosure having the outside dimension of a standard, transportable ISO shipping container. The filter house has apertures for fluid flow inlet and fluid flow outlet, and a filter element for removing impurities from the fluid flow. The method includes creating one standard filter house design to be used in any multiple to meet various flow requirements. The method further includes creating a common fluid connection between the filter houses and process equipment so that the filter houses operate in parallel. A kit of modular components for filtration of a fluid is also provided. The kit includes an external structure of an ISO shipping container, vanes to direct fluid flow, and a filter element. The kit also includes apertures that allow fluid communication between the interior of the shipping container and the exterior of the shipping container.
US08580013B2 Air dryer cartridge and method for operating an air dryer cartridge
An air dryer cartridge is provided for a compressed air supply system, in particular a compressed air supply system of a commercial vehicle, with a drying agent box which is filled with a drying agent. The drying agent box can be coupled in an axial direction to a connecting flange of the compressed air supply system. A seal, which is designed as a non-return valve and, in the fitted state of the air dryer cartridge, acts in a sealing manner between the drying agent box and the connecting flange, is arranged on the drying agent box. A method for operating the air dryer cartridge on the compressed air supply system is also provided.
US08580011B2 Urinal toilet concept
A gas and liquid mixture separation and collection system for zero gravity operation that can be applied to a urinal toilet is disclosed. There is an inlet to receive the gas and liquid mixture. The mixture is directed to a filter having an air side. A vacuum pump on the air side of the filter generates a pressure delta to force the inlet flow. A peristaltic pump is used to transfer liquid away from the filter surface. In doing so, the flow on the liquid side of the membrane filter may contain some gas left over from the inlet flow mixture, but there is substantially less gas than in the gas and liquid mixture at the inlet. The filtered mixture is directed to an expandable collection bag that is attached to the air side of the filter so the filter process can be repeated to remove more gas from the mixture.
US08580007B2 Filter system for cleaning the air of an enclosure to be ventilated, especially for fiber-optic equipment
The invention relates to a filter system for cleaning the air of an enclosure to be ventilated, especially for fiber-optic equipment. The enclosure includes a ventilation opening and is associated with an insertion shaft located proximate to the ventilation opening. The filter system includes an insertion part including a filter housing for accommodating at least one filter element and further including a handle for inserting the insertion part into the insertion shaft. The filter housing is configured so as to cover the ventilation opening when the filter housing is in a working position within the insertion shaft. The filter system includes an insertion arrangement provided at a first end portion of the insertion shaft for inserting the insertion part into the insertion shaft.
US08580003B2 Exhaust gas purifying device
Provided is an exhaust gas purifying device structured such that a gas sensor or the like can be easily arranged while an installation length of gas purifying filters can be formed compact. The exhaust gas purifying device includes the gas purifying filters for purifying an exhaust gas discharged from an engine, inner cases internally provided with the gas purifying filters, and outer cases internally provided with the inner cases. Provided are sets of the gas purifying filters, the inner cases and the outer cases, and flange bodies connecting plural sets of outer cases are offset with respect to a connection boundary position of plural sets of gas purifying filters.
US08580002B2 Multistage separation system
A “bolt on” static separator is disclosed for use in conjunction with a rotating separator to handle higher liquid volumes that are not able to be effectively separated by the rotating separator alone. The static separator may be positioned upstream of the rotating separator, generally right in front of the rotating separator, i.e., immediately ahead of the inlet to the rotating separator and generally attached directly to the front end of the rotary separator. The static separator may include a significant change in flow path direction that is sufficient to cause coarse fluid separation. The output of the static separator is in communication with the input of the rotating separator. Additionally, the drain of the static separator is in communication with the drain of the rotating separator and is at the same pressure.
US08579998B2 Pre-burning, dry process methodology and systems for enhancing metallurgical solid fuel properties
Measurements are taken of moisture, BTU/lb (British Thermal Units per pound), ash, forms of sulfur, volatile material, grindability, and absorption properties of any of a wide variety of mine-run solid fuels. Using that information, a dry electromagnetic process technology has been developed that can be controlled and monitored to selectively alter and enhance metallurgical solid fuel properties. Specific changes include altering the mechanical structure and chemical composition of solid fuels such as coal, coal coke or petroleum coke, increasing the BTU/lb to optimum levels, decreasing all forms of sulfur, and decreasing ash, while maintaining the BTU/lb of the fuels. A new family of solid fuel designer coals not found in nature can be produced via these methods and apparatus.
US08579993B2 Use of dyestuffs for dyeing keratin fibers and compositions comprising the dyestuffs
Present invention relates to the use of a cationic anthrachinone dye for coloring keratin fibers, especially human hair, and compositions comprising the said dyestuffs. The object of the present invention is the use of dyestuff according to general structure wherein R1 is a group selected from CH3, CH2OH, C2H2OH, C4H9, C3H6OC2H5, C2H4OCH3 and C3H6OC2H4OCH3 for dyeing keratin fibers especially human hair.
US08579991B2 Hand prosthesis and force transmission device
A hand prosthesis includes a chassis to which at least one finger prosthesis is articulated. The finger prosthesis is swivelable about at least one swiveling axis by a drive that is connected to the finger prosthesis via a force transmission device. The force transmission device does not yield to tension and is flexible.
US08579989B2 Device and method for use in parietal surgery
The present invention provides a device (10; 110) for use in parietal surgery, in particular for use in laparascopic hernia repair, the device (10; 110) comprising a body (12; 138) at one end of which is located a parietal reinforcement implant (14; 114), in a collapsed state, the device (10; 110) including means operate e to expose the parietal surgical implant from within the body, and means operable to urge the parietal surgical implant (14; 114) into an open or expanded state, once positioned at the site of the hernia, wherein the parietal surgical implant (14; 114) may be separated from the device (10; 110), in order to allow the parietal surgical implant (14; 114) to be secured against the site of the hernia such as to aid in the healing of same.
US08579988B2 Medical device delivery catheter
Apparatus for delivering a medical device to a location in a patient's body includes an elongate catheter body having a proximal end and a distal end, a pod coupled with the distal end of the catheter body and adapted to house the medical device during delivery to the location and to open to release the medical device, and at least one distal actuator coupled with at least one of the pod and the medical device. The distal actuator is adapted to promote opening of the pod. A method involves advancing a pod at the distal end of an elongate catheter to the location within the body and activating an actuator coupled with the pod and/or the medical device to cause the pod to open. Opening the pod releases the medical device.
US08579987B2 Artificial stomach
An artificial stomach for replacing the normal stomach of a patient comprises a food reservoir adapted to collect food, an inlet connected to a first opening of the food reservoir and further being adapted to upstream connect to the patient's gastrointestinal tract, and an outlet connected to a second opening of the food reservoir and further being adapted to downstream connect to the patient's gastrointestinal tract.
US08579986B1 Bone fusion material compressor and method of use
The present invention provides an apparatus and method that will allow surgeons to produce bone growth masses for use in spinal surgery that are capable of maintaining their physical integrity during placement and during the acute post operative period.
US08579985B2 Method and apparatus for hip replacement
Methods and apparatus for orthopedic replacement of the hip through three incisions with a modular prosthetic system assembled in vivo while substantially preserving muscles and soft tissues around the hip joint resulting in reduced healing time and decreased risk of dislocation. A prosthetic femoral stem is inserted into the femur. A prosthetic femoral neck is inserted from a point along the side of the patient's body and into the side of the femur and through a lateral bore in the prosthetic femoral stem to join the prosthetic femoral head. The methods and apparatus include structures and techniques for fixing or enhancing interconnection of implant components, such as by increasing the interconnection in an interference fit with one or more tapers, threads, and/or cooling of components prior to assembly.
US08579983B2 Spinal fusion implant
The present invention provides a device and methodology for use in spinal fusion surgeries. An implant is proved for forming a rigid structure between adjoining vertebrae in a patient. The implant is a cage defined by at least a first end, second end, first side, and second side surface, wherein first and second side surfaces extend substantially parallel to each other to span a space between adjoining vertebrae and first and second ends interconnect said first side surface and second side surface. The cage incorporates one or more flexible joints that allow the cage to be deformed for insertion into a patient. The ability to deform the cage allows a greater ease and flexibility in inserting and positioning the implant.
US08579980B2 Allograft intervertebral implant and method of manufacturing the same
The present invention is directed to an allograft intervertebral implant sized and configured for insertion between adjacent vertebral bodies in a spinal fusion surgery. The implant is preferably manufactured from two or more pieces of allograft bone joined together by a joint, more preferably a dovetail joint. The dovetail joint being sized and configured to substantially follow the exterior shape or surface of the intervertebral implant.
US08579978B2 Intervertebral implant, insertion tool and method of inserting same
An intervertebral implant, alone and in combination with an insertion tool for inserting same and a method for inserting same. The implant has upper and lower parts which have universal movement relative to each other. Each of the upper and lower parts also has a surface engaging an adjacent vertebrae. Each part has a keel extending from said surface into a cutout in the adjacent vertebrae, and each keel has an anterior opening recess therein. An insert tool has a pair of arms which are received in the recess of the keels through the anterior opening to securely hold and insert the implant. Projections and matching indentations in each arm and the base of its recess securely attached each arm within its keel.
US08579976B2 Expandable cage for vertebral surgery involving lumbar intersomatic fusion by a transforaminal posterior approach
An implant of the intersomatic cage type, for fusion of vertebral bodies by a transforaminal approach, is disclosed that comprises a body with a curved profile that is designed to be implanted between the vertebral plates of two adjacent vertebrae. According to the invention, said body of curved profile comprises a posterior maneuvering part and an anterior attack part, said anterior attack part being composed of a lower tongue and of an upper tongue that are designed to receive between them a spacer element that can slide between a position of introduction, in which it is situated near said posterior maneuvering part, and a spacing position, in which it is situated near the end of said anterior attack part, thus increasing the thickness of the latter by spreading the tongues apart, said spacer element comprising a receiving seat that is open at the top and bottom.
US08579972B2 Construction of an intraocular artificial lens
This invention concerns an intraocular artificial lens with variable optical power which lens is comprised of two optical elements which can be shifted relatively to each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis wherein the optical elements have such a shape that they exhibit, in combination, different optical powers at different relative positions and positioning means for positioning the optical elements in the eye and driving means for at least one of the optical elements to execute a movement relative to the other optical element and whereby the positioning means provide for forcing the optical elements to a resting position.
US08579970B1 Magnifying intraocular lens
A telescopic intraocular lens system comprises a telescopic optical system comprising an anterior optic interconnected with a posterior optic. The optics are substantially aligned on an optical axis of the optical system. The optics are formed from a soft material and the optics are substantially immovable relative to each other along the optical axis in response to accommodative forces of the type observed in the capsular bag of the human eye.
US08579965B2 Methods of implanting an implantation device
The implant implantation unit (2), at a determined position in the tubular element (51) with a wall comprising a cavity (50), is pushed there by a catheter (60) and the unit comprises deformable feelers (31) to, under the control of remote activation elements (42), change from a stowed form to a deployed functional form, to detect the cavity (50) and position itself there with reference to the position of the cavity.
US08579956B2 Methods and devices for treating lesions
An method and apparatus are disclosed including an expandable body having a diameter suitable for insertion into a blood vessel and capable of being modified from a first diameter to a second larger diameter in response to an inflation pressure. The expandable body includes an outer wall having a plurality of delivery outlets extending from a working length of the outer wall. The delivery outlets coincide with regions of a lesion exposed between a framework implanted within the vessel when the expandable body is in an expanded state. A treatment agent is delivered from the delivery outlets to regions of the lesion exposed between the implantable framework.
US08579955B2 Anti-arrhythmia devices and methods of use
An apparatus and method of use are disclosed for treating, preventing and terminating arrhythmias. In particular, the apparatus is implantable within or on various tissues and structures and is used to prevent or block conduction of aberrant impulses. A variety of methods of the present invention may be used to attack arrhythmias by short-circuiting impulses, inducing fibrosis, ablating tissue or inducing inflammation. In addition, the device and methods may also be used to treat aneurysms. The device may also be used to treat hypertension, and to function as a blood pressure regulator.
US08579954B2 Untwisting restraint implant delivery system
Medical devices and methods for delivery or implantation of prostheses within hollow body organs and vessels or other luminal anatomy are disclosed. The subject technologies may be used in the treatment of atherosclerosis in stenting procedures or be used in variety of other procedures. The systems may employ a self expanding stent restrained by one or more members released by an electrolytically erodable latch. Such release means do not connect directly to the implant, though one or more portions may contact it.
US08579953B1 Devices and methods for therapeutic heat treatment
Devices and methods for providing therapeutic heating are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the system includes a device body configured to provide heat to a portion of skin. The device body also includes a low-level heating region and a high-level heating area. The low-level heating region provides a continuous amount of heat at a first temperature, and the high-level heating area provides an intermittent amount of heat at a second temperature greater than the first temperature.
US08579952B2 Multifunctional laser therapeutic apparatus
A laser therapeutic apparatus includes a 532 nm wavelength laser or a 2000 nm wavelength thulium laser, a 980 nm wavelength laser or a 1470 nm wavelength laser, and a 2100 nm wavelength laser; an optical coupling device located at laser emitting ends of the above-mentioned lasers, which is used for coupling the lasers emitted from the above-mentioned lasers into the same optical fiber (1, 7, 11) to emit; and a control device capable of controlling the working modes of the above-mentioned lasers for laser emitting and the energy of the lasers emitted from the above-mentioned lasers.
US08579950B1 Bone reduction and plate clamp assembly
A pair of clamps are attached to a damaged bone one each side of a fracture site during a surgical reduction, one clamp on each side of the fracture site, after which the two clamps are slidably engaged to a single alignment bar, with the clamps then being adjusted to properly align the bone for a surgical attachment using a bone plate. Each clamp provides axially adjustable plate retainers which slides along a track on the end of each segment of the each clamp to position the retainers at a location where the bone plate is to be attached to the bone. Upon positioning, the bone plate is held against the bone with the bone still in proper alignment wherein screws anchor the plate to the bone, stabilizing the fracture site during the plate attachment procedure.
US08579948B2 Instruments for use with a bone anchor with plug member
Instruments for use with a bone anchoring assembly having plug member are disclosed that allow introduction of the plug member and bone cement or other liquid or pasty material into the bone anchor. The bone anchor includes a shaft having a first end and a second end, a channel extending from the first end to the second end, and a plug member which is insertable into the channel and guidable through the channel for closing the channel at the second end. The bone anchor is suitable for minimally invasive surgery in such a way a guide wire can be guided through the bone anchor and after the bone anchor has been anchored in the bone the plug member is inserted to close the open end of the bone anchor.
US08579943B2 Apparatus for securing a spinal rod system
The present invention includes a method of securing a spinal rod to an anchoring device, including releasably securing a locking cap to a distal end of an insertion instrument, the instrument having an outer tubular body, a rod persuader, and a locking shaft, each of the tubular body, rod persuader and locking shaft having proximal and distal ends and positioned coaxial with one another; positioning the distal end of the insertion instrument, and locking cap, into operative engagement with the spinal rod; engaging the anchoring device with the distal end of the tubular body; rotating the proximal end of the rod persuader to longitudinally advance the locking cap and spinal rod distally towards the anchoring device, the proximal end and the distal end of the rod persuader being rotatable relative to one another; and after the locking cap is advanced, rotating the locking shaft to rotate the locking cap thereby.
US08579941B2 Linked bilateral spinal facet implants and methods of use
Superior and/or inferior facets of one or more facet joints may be replaced by superior and/or inferior facet joint prostheses. In one embodiment, a kit of superior or inferior prostheses is provided, in which the prostheses have at least two dimensions that vary among members of the kit independently of each other. Each prosthesis may have a bone engaging surface having a surface that is polyaxially rotatable against a corresponding resection of a vertebra. Each prosthesis may also have an articulating surface shaped such that, after attachment to the spine, the replaced or partially replaced facet joints provide a larger medial-lateral range of motion when the spine is flexed than when the spine is extended. Crosslinks may be used to connect left and right prosthesis together in such a manner that they are stabilized in a position in which they are seated directly against the vertebra.
US08579940B2 Suture anchor with apertures at tip
A suture anchor includes a threaded anchor body having a bore for receiving a driver, and at least two distal passageways extending from the bore to corresponding apertures at the distal end of the suture anchor. The apertures are provided as pairs with a corresponding groove formed between the apertures of the pair. Suture strands can be inserted into the suture anchor through the apertures, the distal portion of the sutures seated in the grooves between the apertures being protected from abrasion during installation of the suture anchor.
US08579935B2 Tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods
Surgical tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods are disclosed. A tissue fastener used to join multiple tissue layers includes a first member, a second member, and a connecting member connecting the first and second members. In some embodiments, the first and second members are configured to expand from a delivered state to a deployed state in which the fastener secures the tissue layers together. In other tissue fastener embodiments the connecting member has an elastic compressive spring force for applying a substantially constant force on the tissue layers for adjusting a length of the connecting member between the first and second members.
US08579934B2 Locator and delivery device and method of use
This invention relates to apparatus and methods for use in sealing a vascular puncture site and to apparatus and methods for properly locating and deploying a sealing device. The locating apparatus includes a lumen which extends from an opening in the distal region of the apparatus but located proximally of the sealing device, which lumen extends to another opening in the proximal region of the device. When the distal opening is in communication with blood in a blood vessel, blood flow through the lumen and out of the proximal opening signifies such location to the user. When the sealing device is withdrawn such that the sealing device is deployed such that it blocks the blood flow into the distal port, the user will know the location of the sealing device. In a preferred embodiment, the sealing device is then withdrawn proximally a predetermined distance to assure that no part of the sealing device extends into the blood vessel lumen. The sealing device is then detached from the delivery device.
US08579932B2 Sheath apparatus and methods for delivering a closure device
An apparatus for delivering a clip includes an introducer sheath including an outer surface extending between its proximal and distal ends. A clip is carried on the outer surface, e.g., on a carrier assembly that is slidable along the outer surface from the proximal end towards the distal end. A skin overlies the outer surface of the sheath and the carrier assembly that is separable from the outer surface as the carrier assembly is advanced from the proximal end towards the distal end of the sheath. During use, the distal end of the sheath is inserted into an opening through tissue, e.g., into a puncture communicating with a blood vessel. The carrier assembly is advanced towards the distal end of the sheath, causing the skin to separate from the outer surface of the elongate member, and the clip is deployed from the carrier to seal the opening.
US08579931B2 Apparatus for the percutaneous marking of a lesion
A biopsy marking apparatus for placing a radiopaque marker at the location of a percutaneous biopsy. The biopsy marking apparatus comprises an introducer in combination with a radiopaque marker. The introducer ejects the radiopaque marker at the location of the biopsy. The introducer is configured to completely eject the radiopaque marker and prevent it from being subsequently drawn into the introducer as the introducer is removed from the biopsied tissue mass. The radiopaque marker has enhanced radiopaque characteristics and enhanced non-migration characteristics.
US08579927B2 Systems and methods for remote endarterectomy
Systems and methods for remote endarterectomy are disclosed. In an embodiment, a device for remote endarterectomy includes an elongated member, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween; an endarterectomy unit at the distal end of the elongated member formed by a first member engaged to a second member in a substantial secure alignment with the second member, wherein the endarterectomy unit has a circumferential enclosure configured to separate a plaque core from a blood vessel and an open region surrounded by the enclosure and configured to receive the separated plaque core therethrough; and an actuator coupled to the proximal end of the elongated member for translating the first member relative to the second member across the open space to transect the plaque core received in the open space.
US08579926B2 Plaque removal device with rotatable cutting element
An elongate tubular body with a rotatable cutting element is provided. An opening is provided near the distal end of the tubular body, and the cutting element may be partially exposed through the opening. The cutting element is configured to remove plaque from the wall of a body lumen. A distal segment may be coupled to the distal end of the tubular body and may have a distal port for slidably receiving a guidewire therethrough.
US08579925B2 Medical clamp
A medical clamp includes a lower arm assembly, an upper arm assembly, and a belt. The upper arm assembly is pivotally connected to the lower arm assembly. The lower arm assembly and the upper arm assembly are configured for clamping relative to one another. The belt is connected to the lower arm assembly and the upper arm assembly and is configured for forming a loop therebetween.
US08579923B2 Shape memory filament for suture management
A member of a rigid flexible elastic material, the member including a body portion and an aperture portion with the member adapted for delivery through an axial longitudinal channel of a percutaneous delivery subsystem, the aperture portion including an expanded mode having a lateral dimension greater than an inner diameter of the channel when the aperture portion extends outside the channel and a collapsed mode wherein the lateral dimension is not greater than the inner diameter of the channel when the aperture portion is within the channel, the channel including a first axial opening and a second axial opening with the aperture portion transitioning from the expanded mode to the collapsed mode when inserted into the openings and the aperture transitioning from the collapsed mode to the expanded mode when exiting from the openings.
US08579922B2 Method of suture identification and mesh marking for orienting and locating a mesh during hernia repair
A suture kit includes a plurality of flexible strands of suture, each of the strands of suture having one or more suture markings indicative of a suture orientation and a mesh material configured to enable the strands of suture to be passed therethrough, wherein at least one quadrant/section of the mesh material having one or more mesh markings indicative of a mesh material orientation. The one or more suture markings include visual indicators and the one or more mesh markings include visual indicators, the suture visual indicators corresponding to the mesh visual indicators for indicating correct orientation of the mesh material with respect to tissue of a subject.
US08579921B2 Spring-type suture securing device
A suture securing device includes a body with a distal end portion defining a suture receiving opening; a shaft and the body being assembled for relative reciprocal motion between a first position and a second position; and a tension coil spring operably attached to the body and operably attached adjacent a distal end portion of the shaft and disposed adjacent a suture receiving opening, When the body and shaft are in the first position, the tension coil spring is in a rest position, and when the body and/or the shaft are in the second position, the tension coil spring is in a tensioned position to form at least one gap therebetween to enable receipt of at least a portion of at least one suture.
US08579920B2 Surgical fasteners, applicator instruments, and methods for deploying surgical fasteners
An applicator instrument for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a housing, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, a firing rod disposed inside the elongated shaft and being movable within a first plane between a retracted position and an extended position, an advancer disposed inside the elongated shaft and being moveable within a second plane between a retracted position and an extended position, and a staging assembly located adjacent the distal end of the elongated shaft and being adapted to align surgical fasteners with a distal end of the firing rod. The staging assembly is held below the second plane by the advancer when the advancer is in the extended position and the staging assembly is adapted to move into at least partial alignment with the distal end of the firing rod when the advancer is in the retracted position.
US08579916B2 Thermal separation of impurities from the scalp, hair, and skin
Presented is a simple, novel, process of removing impurities from the scalp, hair, and skin. The process consists of, simultaneously, freezing the impurities with dry, chilled air, freeing the frozen impurities by abrading, and removing the frozen impurities by vacuum suctioning.
US08579915B2 Systems, methods and devices for removing obstructions from a blood vessel
The present invention provides an obstruction removing device and a method for making the obstruction removing device. The method includes two mandrels with an elongate element being wound around the first mandrel and then wrapped around the second mandrel. The mandrels are movable relative to one another so that the second mandrel may be moved closer to the first mandrel after winding the element around the first mandrel and before winding the element around the second mandrel.
US08579914B2 Specimen retrieval device
A specimen retrieval device is provided. The specimen retrieval device includes an applicator. A specimen retrieval pouch operably is disposed within the applicator and deployable therefrom. The specimen retrieval pouch defines a longitudinal axis therethrough and includes a closed bottom portion and an open upper portion. The closed bottom portion includes a plurality of spikes configured to grasp a specimen positioned within the confines closed bottom portion. The upper closed portion includes one or more axial folds that are movable from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration when a predetermined force is applied to a portion of the specimen retrieval pouch.
US08579908B2 Device for delivering viscous material
Methods and devices are described for delivering a viscous material to a surgical site in a patient while keeping the clinician outside the fluoroscopy field.
US08579907B2 Spacer with height and angle adjustments for spacing vertebral members
A device to space vertebral members that may include a deploying device with a first member with an elongated first shaft and a first body at an end of the first shaft, a second member with an elongated second shaft that extends around the first shaft and a second body at an end of the second shaft, and a third member with an elongated third shaft that extends around the second shaft and a third body at an end of the second shaft. The device may include a first plate positioned on a first side of the deploying device, and a second plate positioned on a second side of the deploying device. First, second, and third jointed linkages may be spaced apart along the deploying device and each having a pair of links and each having a first end attached to the first plate, a second end attached to the second plate, and an intermediate joint connecting the pair of links together and being attached to the deploying device.
US08579905B2 Unicondylar knee implants and insertion methods therefor
A system for resecting a posterior region of a femoral condyle includes a posterior resection guide having a main body with an upper end and a lower end, a cutting instrument guide surface provided on the main body, and a series of anchor pin holes extending through the main body. The series of anchor pin holes includes a first pair of pin holes located a first distance from the upper end of the main body, a second pair of pin holes located a second distance from the upper end of the main body that is less than the first distance, and a third pair of anchor pin holes located a third distance from the upper end of the main body that is more than the first distance. Anchor pins are insertable through the anchor pin holes for coupling the posterior resection guide with a femoral condyle of a femur.
US08579904B2 Instrument for positioning an intervertebral implant for the fusion between two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column
An instrument positions an intervertebral implant for the fusion between two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column. The instrument may include a handle having a proximal and a distal end, a locking shaft extended from the distal end of the handle, and a grasping head at the distal end of the shaft. The locking shaft may be cannulated, and a stem may be hosted inside the cannulated shaft passing through the handle. The stem may be free to rotate with respect to the locking shaft, or vice versa, while the grasping head may be formed at the distal end of the stem with a couple of prongs or clamps toward the other according to an angular relative rotation of the stem with respect to the locking shaft. The instrument may allow the surgeon to grip a corresponding implant with a simple rotation movement of his hand.
US08579902B2 Devices and methods for tissue modification
Described herein are methods for achieving access to a compressed space in spinal anatomy. In some embodiments, a method for achieving access may include the steps of advancing a distal portion of a cannulated probe toward a neural foramen from a lateral side of the foramen, extending a first end of a elongate member from a distal end of the cannulated probe and through the neural foramen from the lateral side to a medial side of the foramen and at least partially around an anterior portion of a facet joint and posterior to a spinal disc, and extending the first end of the elongate member out of the patient, wherein a portion of the elongate member remains curved around the facet joint. In some embodiments, the method may further include the step of extending a first end of an inner cannula from a distal end of the cannulated probe.
US08579901B1 Suture band buckle and methods
A surgical tensioning device for holding separated tissues in contact with one another. The device comprises a frame having two opposing first and second sides and a lower surface and an upper surface, and a band for extending around said separated tissues to be held together in conjunction with said frame. The band has two ends attached to the sides of the frame releasably. When the ends are secured to the sides of the frame, the band establishes a path of tension along its length that extends linearly between the two ends of the band.
US08579892B2 Medical system and method of use
An instrument and method for applying thermal energy to targeted tissue. An instrument and method for tissue thermotherapy. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a vapor source comprising a pump configured for providing a flow of liquid media from a liquid media source into a vaporization chamber having a heating mechanism, actuating the pump to provide the liquid into the vaporization chamber, applying energy from the heating mechanism to convert a substantially water liquid media into a minimum water vapor level for causing an intended effect in tissue. For examples such levels can comprise at least 60% water vapor, at least 70% water vapor, at least 80% water vapor or at least 90% water vapor for causing an intended effect in tissue.
US08579891B2 Devices for thermally-induced hepatic neuromodulation
According to some embodiments, a method of treating a subject having diabetes or symptoms associated with diabetes is provided. The method includes delivering a neuromodulation catheter within a vessel (e.g., hepatic artery) having surrounding nerves that innervate the liver (e.g., sympathetic nerves of the hepatic plexus). The method may also include modulating (e.g., disrupting, ablating, stimulating) the nerves by mechanical compression, energy delivery, or fluid delivery.
US08579890B2 Cryo-ablation refrigerant distribution catheter
Described herein are methods and devices for performing ablation via a cryoablation catheter. An ablation catheter having a cyroablation chamber at its distal end can be used to achieve a uniform ablation band in or around the pulmonary veins. The cyrochamber can house a dispersion member in fluid communication with a refrigerant supply and can function to evenly distribute received refrigerant over some portion of the inner wall of the cryochamber. As a result of this even distribution of refrigerant within the cyrochamber, uniform ablation of the targeted tissue of the patient can be achieved.
US08579880B2 Devices and methods for making and administering an intravenous liquid with supersaturated dissolved gas
Methods and devices for treating patients using high partial pressures of dissolved gas in a liquid. Greater than hyperbaric partial pressures of gas may be dissolved and maintained in the liquid when mixing occurs at ambient pressure. Additional increases in dissolved gas partial pressure may be achieved when the temperature of the liquid is further decreased. The method further includes administering the liquid intravenously via a conventional catheter. Gas exchange occurs due to diffusion upon mixing of the liquid and blood within the vasculature of the patient.
US08579877B2 Medical IV bag having improved shelf life and versatility
An IV bag including a bladder containing a first substance and a storage cap containing a second substance operable to release the second substance into the bladder to mix with the first substance without exposing the first substance to outside contamination, the storage cap for use with an IV bag including an inner storage chamber for storing a first substance, a first annular opening having a first annular convex surface facing toward the storage chamber, and a plunger element located within the storage chamber having a domed-end with a convex surface facing to the annular opening, wherein the domed end is moveable to make and break contact with the annular opening, and wherein when the domed end is in contact with the first annular convex surface, a seal is formed between two convex surfaces along an annular path to seal the storage chamber.
US08579875B2 Packaged absorbent article
A packaged absorbent article having a body surface and a garment surface; and a wrapper sheet for wrapping the absorbent article so that at least a portion of the garment surface of the absorbent article can be seen through the wrapper sheet.
US08579874B1 Breast interface assembly for breast pump
A breast interface assembly for connecting a breast pump to a nipple of a breast, includes a connector and a reversible element which has two terminal portions of differing internal diameters. The breast interface assembly is configured to be assembled in a first state, in which a first terminal portion of the reversible element connects with the connector, and the breast interface assembly presents a breast contact surface defining a nipple aperture of a first diameter. The breast interface assembly is further configured to be assembled in a second state in which a second terminal portion of the reversible element connects with the connector and the breast interface assembly presents a breast contact surface defining a nipple aperture of a second diameter. In at least one of the first and second states, the reversible element provides at least part of the breast contact surface.
US08579873B2 Bladder drainage aid
Provided is a bladder drainage aid which attaches to the end of Foley Catheter and removes the need for a catheter bag. In a preferred embodiment, the device is a spring-loaded valve with an inflow tube and an outflow tube. The inflow tube connects to the external end of a catheter. The outflow tube can be aimed by the patient. When pressed, the valve opens, allowing the fluid to flow there through. When released, the piston of the valve cuts off fluid flow. The valve cap allows ease of use and the device can be operated with two fingers of one hand. The patient can wear the drainage aid discretely and empty the bladder directly and discretely, such as into a toilet.
US08579872B2 Reduced-pressure systems, dressings, and methods employing a wireless pump
Systems, methods, and dressings for providing reduced pressure to a tissue site on a patient are presented that involve wirelessly providing power to a reduced-pressure pump. In one instance, a RFID antenna is used to power a reduced-pressure pump that is fluidly coupled by a conduit to a reduced-pressure dressing. In another instance, a reduced-pressure dressing incorporates a micro-pump and a RFID antenna that is used to power the micro-pump. Other systems, methods, and devices are presented.
US08579868B2 Medical delivery system with flexible blocking element
A medical delivery system (200) having a container (202) and a dosing assembly (204), where the container is fastenable to the dosing assembly by a movement comprising a translatory movement followed by a rotational movement. One of the container and the dosing assembly comprises one or more blocking elements (207) movable between a blocking position and a non-blocking position responsive to the rotational movement. Each blocking element is able to engage the other one of the container and the dosing assembly. A container suitable for use in said medical delivery system.
US08579861B2 Needle magazine
A needle magazine for holding a plurality of injection needles (50) is described. The needle magazine comprises a first opening adapted to receive the device fluid access portion (120) of a medical delivery device. Each needle (50) is selectively moveable from a respective storage position not aligned with said first opening into a needle mounting position aligned with said first opening. The needle magazine further comprises needle positioning means (41). configured to alter the mutual position between a needle selected from said plurality of needles (50) relative to a neighbor needle when said selected needle moves from its storage position to the needle mounting position.
US08579860B2 Access assembly with spherical valve
A surgical portal apparatus includes a portal member dimensioned to access tissue and having a longitudinal passageway therethrough to permit access to underlying tissue, and defining leading and trailing ends, a seal housing associated with the portal member and a seal mount at least partially disposed within the seal housing. The seal mount is adapted for rotational movement within the seal housing. The seal mount includes an instrument seal adapted to establish a substantial sealed relation with a surgical object introduced within the longitudinal passageway and a closure valve adapted to substantially close the longitudinal passageway in the absence of the object.
US08579859B2 Fluid balance monitoring system with fluid infusion pump for medical treatment
Novel fluid delivery systems are disclosed to improve the delivery of bio-compatible fluids to a patient. The systems can include a housing having a bladder pressurized by a pressurization unit so that fluid flow rate can be controlled, changed and/or monitored. The systems can also include a scale and/or a flow control unit.
US08579855B2 Method for storing and delivering a drug
A method of storing and delivery a drug, such as by lyophilizing and reconstituting, comprises performing both storing and delivering with the same container closure assembly. The container closure is assembled in a preparation configuration during which lyophilization occurs. After lyophilizing, the powdered drug is forced into a spiral channel in the container closure assembly by a plunger. The plunger leaves substantially no head space for the powdered drug, and the assembly is sealed thereby now being in the storage configuration. For delivery of the stored powdered drug, a syringe of diluent is introduced to the container assembly thereby changing the assembly to the delivery configuration. The spiral channel is continuous between an input end and a delivery end with the delivery end being in fluid communication with a delivery outlet of the assembly. The assembly includes a diluent flow path that forces the diluent into a spiral channel at only the input end. As the diluent is forced to flow through the spiral channel from the input end to the delivery end, it reconstitutes the powdered drug, thereby reconstituting and delivering in the same step. No separate reconstituting and priming steps are needed.
US08579854B2 Integrated insulin delivery system having delivery safety features
An integrated insulin delivery system having safety features for controlling medication delivery includes automatic resumption of basal rate after a particular event, such as termination of a bolus, expiration of a time period, delayed resumption after the bolus has terminated, IOB comparison, and others. Other safety features include overriding a delivery control that may result in hypoglycemia, terminating an extended bolus or temporary basal rate in view of a glucose signal indicating imminent carbohydrate deficiency, and controlling the delivery rate to take an asymmetrical bias range of a glucose sensor into account to avoid hypoglycemia.
US08579850B2 Irrigation device and method of using the device
An irrigation device that includes a reservoir for an irrigating liquid, a catheter in liquid communication with the reservoir, a fixation member for fixation of the catheter and a control unit. The control unit is arranged for in a first position transferring the irrigation liquid to the fixation member and in a second position transferring the irrigation liquid to the catheter. Thereby is provided a simple, inexpensive and essentially maintenance free device which can be used for administrating an irrigation liquid, and which at the same time comprises a fixation member that will not be expelled from the body cavity by e.g. a peristaltic reflex, during use.
US08579848B2 Active drainage systems with pressure-driven valves and electronically-driven pump
An IOP control system for implantation in an eye of a patient is disclosed. The IOP control system includes a drainage tube configured to convey aqueous humor from an anterior chamber of an eye and includes a pressure-driven valve system in fluid communication with the drainage tube and configured to control flow rates of the aqueous humor. The valve system includes a plurality of pressure-driven valves arranged to operate in cooperation with each other. The IOP control system may include an electronic pump system to further regulate flow.
US08579847B2 Wireless pressure setting indicator
Devices and methods useful for non-invasively indicating the position or setting of a mechanical device, such as a sensor or control in an implanted medical device, are disclosed. In one exemplary embodiment, a valve housing adapted to receive fluid flow therethrough is provided. The flow of fluid through the valve housing can be controlled, for example, by a valve assembly that has a plurality of predetermined pressure settings. A radio frequency tag can be disposed in the valve assembly, and the masking element and the radio frequency tag can be configured to move relative to one another. The relative positions of the masking element and the radio frequency tag can alter the response of the radio frequency tag to a wireless signal (which can be emitted from an external reading device, for example) and thereby indicate the pressure setting of the valve assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the masking element can selectively cover at least part of the radio frequency tag according to the pressure setting of the valve assembly, which can change a characteristic of the radio frequency tag's response to the wireless signal.
US08579846B2 Ocular implant systems
Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One implant has a tubular member, with inlet and outlet ends, and a cutting member connected thereto. The tubular member is configured to extend through eye tissue such that the inlet and outlet ends reside respectively in an anterior chamber and a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. Desirably, the cutting member is configured to make an incision in the eye tissue for receiving at least a portion of the tubular member. One method involves introducing an implant, with proximal and distal ends, into the anterior chamber and penetrating eye tissue using an implant distal portion. The implant is advanced from the anterior chamber into the penetrated eye tissue to locate the distal and proximal ends respectively in the physiologic outflow pathway and the anterior chamber. Aqueous humor is conducted between the proximal and distal ends.
US08579842B2 Enhanced friction of micropatterned surfaces immersed in magnetorheological fluid
A method and system are provided for that allow for varying stiffness of a system by applying a low magnetic field to magnetorheological (MR) fluid in the system. The method and system include exposed patterns on facing surfaces of sliding structures. The facing patterns contain MR fluid. When a low to moderate magnetic field is applied to the MR fluid, the patterns are magnetically attracted to MR domains confined to the opposing surface, thus requiring additional force to slide the structures past each other.
US08579835B2 Apparatus and method for selective ultrasonic damage of adipocytes
An apparatus and a method for treating adipose tissue located beneath a patient's skin is disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a sonotrode and an ultrasound transducer operative to induce longitudinal and/or transversal ultrasound vibrations in a least a portion of the sonotrode. In some embodiments, the apparatus provides a “cold” or “transverse” mode where ultrasound energy delivered to the patient is primarily energy of transverse ultrasound waves, and a “hot” or “longitudinal” mode where ultrasound energy delivered to the patient is primarily energy of longitudinal ultrasound waves. The longitudinal waves may be useful for ‘pre-heating’ tissue of the patient before delivering the transverse waves.
US08579832B2 Joining of sensor guide wire
There is a sensor guide wire (1) for intravascular measurements of physiological variables in a living body. The sensor guide wire (1) comprises at least two elongate sections, a first tubular elongate section (2) being tubular in the longitudinal direction of the sensor guide wire (1), and a second elongate section (3) that is adapted to be inserted a predetermined distance (5) into said first tubular section (2), a sensor element (10) provided in the distal part of said sensor guide wire (1), for measuring the physiological variable and to generate a sensor signal in response to said variable, at least one signal transmitting cable connected to the sensor element (10) to transmit sensor signals to a male connector provided in the proximal part of said sensor guide wire (1). The tubular section (2) is provided with at least one through-going opening (4) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the guide wire (1) and positioned a second predetermined distance (6) from one end of the tubular section (2), wherein the guide wire (1) comprises a locking member (7) to be fitted into the opening (4) in order to join the sections (2, 3) together when the second elongate section (3) is inserted into the tubular section (2).
US08579829B2 System and method for monitoring breathing
A system for monitoring the breathing status of a patient comprises a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor. The first temperature sensor is arranged to measure the temperature of the breathing gas of a patient. The second temperature sensor is arranged to measure an ambient temperature of the patient's surroundings. A controller is included, wherein the controller is programmed to determine a plurality of breathing-gas temperatures over time by way of a first signal received from the first temperature sensor and at least one ambient temperature using a second signal received from the second temperature sensor. The controller is programmed to analyze the plurality of breathing-gas temperatures and the at least one ambient temperature to determine a breathing status of the patient. The present invention may be embodied as a method for monitoring the breathing status of a patient.
US08579823B2 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and ultrasonic probe used in same
The present invention provides an ultrasonic probe contains at least one reception preamplifier that is provided per transducer element and connected to the transducer at an input side thereof and to a cable at an output side thereof, a transmission bypass unit that is connected between the cable and the transducer, blocks off a reception signal and allows a transmission signal to pass therethrough, and a floating unit that is connected between a power supply terminal of the preamplifier and a driving power source and increases impedance thereof for a high-voltage transmission signal, whereby a bias potential of the preamplifier is electrically set to a floating state and returned to an original bias potential by a reception time.
US08579822B2 Transesophageal ultrasound probe with an adaptive bending section
When transesophageal echocardiography is used to obtain a transgastric short axis view of the left ventricle of the heart, the best place to position the transducer is in the fundus of the stomach, aimed up through the left ventricle. The probes disclosed herein facilitate placement of the transducer in the optimum position within the fundus, despite wide variations in the distance between the lower esophageal sphincter and the fundus among different subjects. In one preferred embodiment, the ultrasound probe uses a bending section with a series of vertebrae and stiffening that is more flexible proximally and less flexible distally, which causes the probe to bend relatively sharply at the point where the probe exits the lower esophageal sphincter.
US08579821B1 Methods and apparatus for ultrasound imaging
Systems are described to acquire color Doppler data associated with a pulse repetition frequency (fPRF), detect a first area of the color Doppler data representing a zero color Doppler value, detect a second area of the color Doppler data adjacent to the first area and representing non-zero color Doppler values in a first direction, detect a first transition between the second area and a third area of the color Doppler data adjacent to the second area and representing non-zero color Doppler values in a second direction opposite the first direction, determine that the absolute difference between color Doppler values of the second area and the third area at the first transition is more than a preset value, subtract, in response to the determination, a color Doppler value corresponding to a Doppler shift frequency of fPRF from each of the color Doppler values of the third area if the second direction is positive, and add, in response to the determination, the color Doppler value corresponding to a Doppler shift frequency of fPRF to each of the color Doppler values of the third area if the second direction is negative.
US08579819B2 Breast ultrasound scanning template
Apparatus and related methods for facilitating volumetric ultrasonic scanning of a breast are described. In one preferred embodiment, a generally cone-shaped radial scanning template having a vertex and a wide opening angle is provided, the radial scanning template having a slot-like opening extending outward from the vertex through which an ultrasound transducer scans the breast as the radial scanning template is rotated. In another preferred embodiment, a flexible membrane for compressing a skin surface of the breast is provided, the flexible membrane being mounted on a mechanical assembly such as a roller assembly to form a slot-like opening through which an ultrasound transducer directly contacts the skin surface, the flexible membrane rising and falling relative to the skin surface but not moving laterally as the slot-like opening and ultrasound transducer move laterally across the compressed breast, whereby stabilization of the breast and direct transducer-skin contact are concurrently achieved.
US08579817B2 Breast ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and breast ultrasonic diagnostic method
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, that generates image data of a C-mode image of an examination-target portion based on volume data generated through an ultrasonic scan of an object and for displaying the C-mode image, has a curved C-mode surface generating unit and a curved C-mode image generating unit. The curved C-mode surface generating unit generates, based on the volume data, a curved C-mode surface formed by a curved surface that curves without including a non-visualized portion. The curved C-mode image generating unit generates image data of a curved C-mode image based on data of the curved C-mode surface generated by the curved C-mode surface generating unit.
US08579816B2 System and methods for processing analyte sensor data for sensor calibration
Systems and methods for processing sensor analyte data are disclosed, including initiating calibration, updating calibration, evaluating clinical acceptability of reference and sensor analyte data, and evaluating the quality of sensor calibration. The sensor can be calibrated using a calibration set of one or more matched sensor and reference analyte data pairs. Reference data resulting from benchtop testing an analyte sensor prior to its insertion can be used to provide initial calibration of the sensor data. Reference data from a short term continuous analyte sensor implanted in a user can be used to initially calibrate or update sensor data from a long term continuous analyte sensor.
US08579814B2 Method and system for representation of current and historical medical data
A method and system for reporting medical data including both current and past medical results for medical tests performed on a patient is provided. The medical data is output in columns, and the current results and past results of the same medical test are presented in the same row. In this manner, the report is provided in a layout that has rows and columns, so that all current results are presented in one column, and all past results are presented in a separate column. In addition, graphs of the medical results can be displayed to illustrate current and past medical results in a view that allows for trend and comparative diagnosis.
US08579812B2 System and methods for management of disease over time
A system for delivering health information is provided. The system comprises at least one apparatus configured to receive information related to a condition of a patient. The analysis system further comprises a reception system configured to receive data related to the patient's condition and a processor configured to assess a condition of a patient and to identify a data set including information related to the patient's condition. The system also comprises a communication system configured to communicate the data set to a user.
US08579805B2 Microcatheter tip
The present invention is directed to a dilator having a stiffened shaft for use as part of an introducer sheath assembly. The dilator includes a stiffener tube and a tip of the dilator which extends distally to the dilator stiffener tube. The transition between the stiffener tube and the tip of the dilator is positioned such that when the dilator is positioned within the catheter sheath, the transition is also positioned within the catheter sheath. By positioning the transition between the stiffener tube of the dilator and the tip of the dilator inside the catheter sheath, the catheter sheath can provide strain relief subsequent to lateral movement of the tip of the dilator in a manner that can prevent kinking of the dilator tip at the transition between the stiffener tip and the tip of the dilator.
US08579793B1 Apparatus to affect brainwave entrainment over premises power-line wiring
This invention discloses an apparatus and method to affect brainwave entrainment by Very Low Frequency eXclusive-OR (XOR) modulation of a Very High Frequency carrier over a premise's power-line Alternating Current (AC) wiring. A microcontroller with stored program memory space is used to store and produce the waveforms that lead to brainwave entrainment by controlling an H-Bridge capable of generating bipolar square waves, which output is capacitive coupled to a premises AC power-line and a light sensing device is used by the microcontroller to determine whether to produce daytime or nighttime entrainment frequencies.
US08579792B2 Suprapatellar external counterpulsation apparatus
An external counterpulsation apparatus has an efficient cuff and bladder system. Embodiments of this system generally allow effective treatment at lower pressures and a reduced total body surface area being compressed. An accurate and reliable combination of automatic and preset timing for inflation and deflation of the bladder system is used to simplify use of the apparatus.
US08579791B2 Ventricular assist device and related methods
A method and system are provided for percutaneously gaining access to oxygenated bood with an anastomosis device and pumping such oxygenated blood to other arterial regions of the vascular system. In one embodiment, a system may include an anastomosis device extending through an opening of the atrial septum. A filament may be coupled to the anastomosis device. A snare may access the right atrium through the superior vena cava, grasp the filament, and withdraw the filament through the superior vena cava. The filament may then be used as a guide to direct a catheter, a conduit or some other structure into the right atrium of the heart via the superior vena cava. A flow path may be defined between the anastomosis device and an arterial location, such as in the aorta, such that at least some oxygenated blood may by-pass the left ventricle and be discharged into the aorta.
US08579790B2 Apical ring for ventricular assist device
An apical ring for coupling a conduit of a ventricular assist device to a heart has an annular disk with a central aperture for receiving the conduit. A collar is axially aligned with the central aperture and has a cylindrical shape interrupted by a gap between first and second ends of the collar. The collar has a fixed section joined to the annular disk and has a cantilever section extending from the fixed section to the first end of the collar. A tightener selectively drives the first end toward the second end to close the gap in order to retain the conduit within the collar. The cantilever section includes a relief slot that is expandable for extending a circumferential length of the cantilever section in response to interacting with the conduit when the gap is closed.
US08579789B1 Endovascular ventricular assist device, using the mathematical objective and principle of superposition
This embodiment suggests new approach for Endovascular Ventricular Assist Device, using the mathematical objective & principle of superposition allow design and calculation of the body response to VAD pump located in the Aorta. This new approach allows minimal invasive Endovascular VAD that result in similar relief to the heart as partial VAD. Using special power transfer technique will allow wireless power transformation into the aorta. This methods and technique should dramatic reduce VAD barrier.
US08579788B2 Auto-regulated R-wave synchronized intraventricular balloon pump heart assist device
Embodiments of the disclosed technology comprise an intraventricular balloon pump to help a dilated heart or ventricle push forward the stagnant stroke volume to the systemic circulation. The balloon fills simultaneously with the contraction of the ventricle. Since blood finds its way of least resistance, the easiest exit is through the aortic valve, against a closed mitral valve. The system is designed to be totally implantable, with a less invasive insertion and maintenance procedure than is known in the prior art.
US08579787B2 Methods and systems for using therapeutic, diagnostic or prophylactic magnetic agents
Systems and methods are disclosed for directing magnetizable particles comprising therapeutic agents to a target volume, or for guiding magnetizable particles comprising therapeutic agents from a first target volume to a second target volume, at a distance using a magnetic field, to enable the treatment of diseased areas including areas deep inside a patient's body. The methods may be used to diagnose or treat diseased areas within a patient, for example tumors of the lungs, intestines, and liver, and is also useful in enhancing the permeability of solid tumors to chemotherapeutic agents.
US08579786B2 Screening techniques for management of a nervous system disorder
Apparatus and method support a neurological event screening for a medical device. The medical device assists a user in determining a configuration of the medical device for delivering an effective treatment for a nervous system disorder. The medical device detects a neurological event, such as a seizure, and reports a neurological event focus location and a neurological event spread to the user. The user may use the information to provide a configuration of a therapeutic delivery unit and associated therapy parameters. Therapeutic treatment is delivered to the patient, and the medical device is provided an indication of the patient's acceptance to the treatment. The user may modify the configuration and therapy parameters in order to achieve efficacy and acceptance. Depending upon the patient's acceptance, therapy is applied in either an open loop mode or a closed loop mode. The medical device determines whether the treatment is successful in accordance with a criterion.
US08579780B2 Plastic bag making apparatus
A sheet of side gusset material 3 is folded into halves, superposed into two layers and interposed between webs of panel material 1 and 2. One of the webs of panel material 1 is folded along a longitudinal folded line 8 to make the webs of panel material 1 and 2 open and make an open surface formed on the webs of panel material 1 and 2. One of the layers of side gusset material 3 is folded along the longitudinal folded line 8 to make the layers of side gusset material 3 open along with an auxiliary gusset portion 7 and make an open surface formed on the layers of auxiliary gusset portion 7. A web of bottom gusset material 4 is superposed on the open surfaces of panel material 1 and 2 and auxiliary gusset portion 7. The web of bottom gusset material 4 and the auxiliary gusset portion 7 are heat sealed with each other while the webs of panel material 1 and 2 and the sheet of side gusset material 3 are heat sealed with each other widthwise of the webs of panel material 1 and 2 with the open surfaces kept being formed. The web of bottom gusset material 4 and at least one of the webs of panel material 1 are heat sealed with each other longitudinally of the webs of panel material 1 and 2 with the open surfaces kept being formed.
US08579774B2 Drive roller for flat belts
A drive roller for flat belts is provided in various embodiments wherein the roller has improved characteristics for maintaining traction of belts, such as lagging applied to the roller.
US08579772B2 Dynamic lower-body contour trainer and exercise machine
An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training of the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the a user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues joining all the muscles in these areas. the apparatus comprises a support structure, two elongate foot platforms and hanging members for attaching the foot platforms to the support in such a manner that they can move in a substantially horizontal X-Y plane with two degrees of freedom. The foot platforms can be hung so that they are either arranged in parallel or have one of their ends closer together than their opposite ends. At least one substantially horizontal connecting member may be provided to interconnect the two foot platforms, either in front, in the middle or in the rear. The support structure is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures.
US08579768B2 Training ladder formed with polygon segments
A training ladder formed of a plurality of substantially rigid polygon-shaped segments detachably secured together with segment connectors extending therebetween. The sides of each segment are substantially the same to allow the segment connector to join any sides between two adjacent segments. Accordingly, the path through the ladder can be varied. In one disclosed embodiment, the segments are octagon shaped and pivotally secured to the segment connectors, thereby allowing the ladder to collapse into a stack when not in use and allowing some of the segments to extend substantially vertically, thereby defining a hurdle or other possible vertical structure.
US08579766B2 Head set for lingual manipulation of an object, and method for moving a cursor on a display
A head set is provided. The head set is beneficial for assisting an individual who is significantly impaired in the use of his or her upper extremities. The system enables this individual to manipulate an object through lingual movement. The object may be a mechanical device such as a door or a bed. Alternatively, the object may be an appliance, wherein “moving” the appliance means turning it on, off, up or down. Alternatively still, the object may be a cursor on a digital display or screen that facilitates the typing of alphanumeric characters on a virtual keyboard. The head set includes a head piece. The head piece supports an articulating arm. The articulating arm supports a mouthpiece at a distal end. The mouthpiece has a plurality of cells embedded therein. The cells are configured to receive pressure applied by the tongue of the user. Movement of the tongue over and against the cells causes the object to be moved, either directly or through a cursor on a display. A method for moving an object using a mouthpiece controlled through lingual movement is also provided. In addition, a method of typing characters on a virtual keyboard using lingual musculature is offered.
US08579765B2 Hybrid electric vehicle hold function
A vehicle powertrain with engine start-stop characteristics is capable of maintaining a vehicle stationary on a roadway with a gradient when wheel brakes are applied to stop the vehicle as the engine is shut down. Vehicle creep and vehicle launch is achieved as the engine is re-started following detection of a brake release signal based on engine speed.
US08579764B2 Control apparatus for idle-stop system mounted on vehicle with manual transmission
A control apparatus for an idle-stop system mounted on a manual-transmission-vehicle includes a restart unit performing a restart operation of the engine such that the restart unit drives a starter to restart the engine when a predetermined restart condition is met. The restart condition includes a condition where a clutch member is operated to allow the motive force to be transmitted between the output shaft of the engine and the driving wheel of the vehicle while the motive force has been blocked by the clutch, and a condition where the brake member is operated to stop applying the braking force to the wheel while the motive force has been blocked by the clutch. A forced stopping means is adapted to stop the wheels by forcibly applying the braking force to the wheels by operating a brake actuator during a predetermined period since the restart condition is met.
US08579762B2 Negative torque upshift offgoing clutch control systems and methods
A clutch control system for a vehicle includes a shift command module and an offgoing clutch control module. The shift command module commands an upshift of a clutch-to-clutch transmission when an engine torque is less than a predetermined negative torque. The offgoing clutch control module increases an offgoing clutch pressure above a predetermined apply pressure in response to the command. An offgoing clutch is fully engaged when the offgoing clutch pressure is greater than the predetermined apply pressure.
US08579758B2 Method and device for operating a hybrid drive device during the start of an internal combustion engine
In a method for operating a hybrid drive device for a motor vehicle having at least one internal combustion engine, another drive unit and a separating clutch, to start the internal combustion engine the separating clutch is engaged, and during the start of the internal combustion engine, a setpoint rotational speed is predefined for the other drive unit. This setpoint rotational speed for the other drive unit is determined with the aid of a drivetrain model.
US08579756B2 Reclining mechanism
Disclosed is a reclining mechanism comprising: a first plate fixed to a seat back; a second plate fixed to a seat cushion; a plurality of planetary gears in meshing engagement with internal gears of the first and second plates; a sun gear in meshing engagement with the planetary gears; and a holding member rotatably holding the planetary gears. An inner peripheral wall of the holding member and an opposing wall section of the sun gear define therebetween a wedge-shaped space in which a restriction member is displaceably disposed. The opposing wall section of the sun gear is formed such that a width of the wedge-shaped space is gradually narrowed toward a counter direction opposite to a specific direction along which the first plate is urged to be rotated according to a force applied to the seat back in a rearward tilting direction.
US08579755B2 Passive mechanical torque converter
A passive mechanical torque converter includes an input member which is coupled to an input of a first centripetal clutch. The output of the first centripetal clutch is coupled to both one element of a planetary gear assembly and the input of a second, double sided centripetal clutch. Another element of the planetary gear assembly is coupled to one side of a one way (overrunning) clutch, the other side of which is grounded. The output of the double sided centripetal clutch and the third element of the planetary gear assembly are coupled to an output member.
US08579754B2 Adjusting ring lock
A locking mechanism for a differential assembly includes an adjusting ring and a retainer. The adjusting ring is rotatable about an axis and has an inner peripheral surface and an outer peripheral surface. The adjusting ring is adjustable to set a desired preload. A plurality of pockets is formed within the outer peripheral surface, and the pockets are circumferentially spaced apart from each other about the axis. The retainer has a portion that at least partially extends into one of the pockets to prevent rotation of the adjusting ring about the axis once the desired preload is achieved.
US08579751B2 Hybrid powertrain with layshaft transmission and electric torque converter and method of controlling same
A powertrain has an electric torque converter that includes an electric motor/generator, and a differential gear set having a first member, a second member, and a third member. The powertrain includes a layshaft transmission having a first input member connected to the first member, a second input member connected to the second member, and having a plurality of selectively engageable torque-transmitting mechanisms each of which is selectively engageable to establish a different respective speed ratio through the transmission. At least one controller is provided, and the motor/generator is connected for common rotation with the third member and is controlled by said at least one controller to establish a speed of the third member that permits synchronous engagement and disengagement of the torque-transmitting mechanisms to shift from one of the respective speed ratios to a successive one of the respective speed ratios. A method of controlling the powertrain is also provided.
US08579750B2 Transmission for hybrid electric vehicle
A transmission for a hybrid electric vehicle may include an input element, an output element, first and second motor generators, a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, a first clutch and a second clutch, wherein a first rotary elements of the first and second planetary gear sets may be connected with the output element, a second rotary element and a third rotary element of the first planetary gear set may be connected with the input element and the first motor generator, respectively, a second rotary element of the second planetary gear set may be connected with the second motor generator, a third rotary element of the second planetary gear set may be switched by the first clutch, and a fourth rotary element of the first planetary gear set and the second rotary element of the second planetary gear set may be switched by the second clutch.
US08579747B2 Power transmission belt method for production thereof
A stacked ring 2 that forms a transmission belt is formed by stacking a plurality of elastically deformable ring materials 201 to 206 together. Shot peening is performed on surfaces of the ring materials 201 to 203 of the first layer as the innermost layer to the third layer so that a residual compressive stress in the ring materials 201 to 203 is higher than that in the ring materials 204 to 206 of the fourth to sixth layers. The outer circumferential length of the ring material 203 of the third layer is longer than the inner circumferential length of the ring material 204 of the fourth layer, and the ring material 203 of the third layer is press-fit into the ring material 204 of the fourth layer.
US08579745B2 Belt type continuously variable transmission and vehicle
A control device for a belt type continuously variable transmission of a vehicle such as a motorcycle includes a first storage section for storing in advance reference correlation between a position of a movable flange and a detection value of a flange position detection sensor. A first processing section moves the movable flange to a position where its movement is restricted by a restriction section. A detection value of the flange position detection sensor is stored in a second storage section. A second processing section derives correlation between the position of the movable flange and the detection value of the flange position detection sensor based on the detection value of the flange position detection sensor stored in the second storage section and the reference correlation between the position of the movable flange and the detection value of the flange position detection sensor stored in the first storage section. A detection value of the flange position detection sensor is thereby calibrated.