Document Document Title
US08618659B2 Package-on-package assembly with wire bonds to encapsulation surface
A microelectronic assembly includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface remote from the first surface. A microelectronic element overlies the first surface and first electrically conductive elements are exposed at one of the first surface and the second surface. Some of the first conductive elements are electrically connected to the microelectronic element. Wire bonds have bases joined to the conductive elements and end surfaces remote from the substrate and the bases, each wire bond defining an edge surface extending between the base and the end surface. An encapsulation layer extends from the first surface and fills spaces between the wire bonds such that the wire bonds are separated by the encapsulation layer. Unencapsulated portions of the wire bonds are defined by at least portions of the end surfaces of the wire bonds that are uncovered by the encapsulation layer.
US08618657B2 Semiconductor device with multilayer wiring structure formed within and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor chip of a multilayer wiring structure having an insulating film formed on a surface thereof, multiple electrode pads formed at a central part and an outer peripheral part of the insulating film, and multiple protective metal layers formed respectively on the electrode pads. The semiconductor device also includes a substrate having the semiconductor chip mounted thereon and including multiple substrate terminals formed on a surface thereof respectively in positions corresponding to the electrode pads. The semiconductor chip is mounted on the substrate by connecting a stud bump to a solder bump. The stud bump is formed on any one of each of the protective metal layers and each of the substrate terminals and the solder bump is formed on the other one of each of the protective metal layers and each of the substrate terminals.
US08618654B2 Structures embedded within core material and methods of manufacturing thereof
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method that comprises providing a first die having a surface comprising a bond pad to route electrical signals of the first die and attaching the first die to a layer of a substrate. The method further comprises forming one or more additional layers of the substrate to embed the first die in the substrate and coupling a second die to the one or more additional layers, the second die having a surface comprising a bond pad to route electrical signals of the second die. The second die is coupled to the one or more additional layers such that electrical signals are routed between the first die and the second die.
US08618648B1 Methods for flip chip stacking
A cavity wafer for flip chip stacking includes an electrostatic (ESC) chuck wafer with a plurality of cavities, and a bonding layer on a surface of the ESC chuck wafer. The bonding layer is configured to receive a through-silicon-via (TSV) interposer with solder bumps. The plurality of cavities are configured to receive the solder bumps at the TSV interposer. The bonding layer is configured to receive an electrostatic bias for bonding the ESC chuck wafer to the TSV interposer with the solder bumps.
US08618646B2 Layered chip package and method of manufacturing same
A layered chip package includes a main body. The main body includes a main part, and further includes first terminals and second terminals disposed on the top and bottom surfaces of the main part, respectively. The main part includes first and second layer portions, and through electrodes penetrating them. The through electrodes are electrically connected to the first and second terminals. Each of the layer portions includes a semiconductor chip having a first surface and a second surface opposite thereto, and further includes surface electrodes. The surface electrodes are disposed on a side of the semiconductor chip opposite to the second surface. The first and second layer portions are bonded to each other such that the respective second surfaces face each other. The first terminals are formed by using the surface electrodes of the first layer portion. The second terminals are formed by using the surface electrodes of the second layer portion.
US08618645B2 Package process and package structure
A package process is provided. An adhesive layer is disposed on a carrier board and then plural first semiconductor devices are disposed on the adhesive layer. A first molding compound formed on the carrier board covers the sidewalls of the first semiconductor devices and fills the gaps between the first semiconductor devices so as to form a chip array board constructed by the first semiconductor devices and the first molding compound. Next, plural second semiconductor devices are flip-chip bonded to the first semiconductor devices respectively. Then, a second molding compound formed on the chip array board at least covers the sidewalls of the second semiconductor devices and fills the gaps between the second semiconductor devices. Subsequently, the chip array board is separated from the adhesive layer. Then, the first and the second molding compound are cut along the gaps between the second semiconductor devices.
US08618643B2 Semiconductor device and lead frame used for the same
A lead frame includes a first outer lead portion and a second outer lead portion which is arranged to oppose to the first outer lead portion with an element-mounting region between them. An inner lead portion has first inner leads connected to the first outer leads and second inner leads connected to the second outer leads. At least either the first or second inner leads are routed in the element-mounting region. An insulation resin is filled in the gaps between the inner leads located on the element-mounting region. A semiconductor device is configured with semiconductor elements mounted on both the top and bottom surfaces of the lead frame.
US08618641B2 Leadframe-based semiconductor package
A semiconductor package and a method for fabricating the same are provided. A leadframe including a die pad and a plurality of peripheral leads is provided. A carrier, having a plurality of connecting pads formed thereon, is attached to the die pad, wherein a planar size of the carrier is greater than that of the die pad, allowing the connecting pads on the carrier to be exposed from the die pad. At least a semiconductor chip is attached to a side of an assembly including the die pad and the carrier, and is electrically connected to the connecting pads of the carrier and the leads via bonding wires. A package encapsulant encapsulates the semiconductor chip, the bonding wires, a part of the carrier and a part of the leadframe, allowing a bottom surface of the carrier and a part of the leads to be exposed from the package encapsulant.
US08618639B2 Semiconductor structure, semiconductor device having a semiconductor structure, and method for manufacturing a semiconductor structure
According to an embodiment, a semiconductor structure includes a first monocrystalline semiconductor portion having a first lattice constant in a reference direction; a second monocrystalline semiconductor portion having a second lattice constant in the reference direction, which is different to the first lattice constant, on the first monocrystalline semiconductor portion; and a metal layer formed on and in contact with the second monocrystalline semiconductor portion.
US08618636B1 Fin bipolar transistors having self-aligned collector and emitter regions
A method for fabricating a bipolar transistor device. The method includes the steps of: providing a SOI substrate having a silicon layer thereon; patterning lithographically a fin hardmask on the silicon layer; placing a dummy contact line over a central portion of patterned fin hardmask; doping the collector/emitter regions; depositing a filler layer over the collector region and the emitter region; removing the dummy contact line to reveal a trench and the central portion of the patterned fin hardmask; forming fin-shaped base regions by removing, within the trench, a portion of the silicon layer not covered by the central portion of the patterned fin hardmask after the step of removing the dummy contact line; doping the fin-shaped base region; and forming a contact line by filling the trench with a contact line material over the fin-shaped base regions, where the collector/emitter regions are self-aligned with the contact line.
US08618633B2 Semiconductor-on-insulator apparatus, device and system with buried decoupling capacitors
A buried decoupling capacitor apparatus and method are provided. According to various embodiments, a buried decoupling capacitor apparatus includes a semiconductor-on-insulator substrate having a buried insulator region and top semiconductor region on the buried insulator region. The apparatus embodiment also includes a first capacitor plate having a doped region in the top semiconductor region in the semiconductor-on-insulator substrate. The apparatus embodiment further includes a dielectric material on the first capacitor plate, and a second capacitor plate on the dielectric material. According to various embodiments, the first capacitor plate, the dielectric material and the second capacitor plate form a decoupling capacitor for use in an integrated circuit.
US08618628B2 Buffered fuse for integrated circuit reconfiguration by laser
A semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. A dummy pattern is formed between a fuse pattern and a semiconductor substrate so as to prevent the semiconductor substrate from being damaged, and a buffer pattern is formed between the dummy pattern and the semiconductor substrate, so that a dummy metal pattern primarily absorbs or reflects laser energy transferred to the semiconductor substrate during the blowing of the fuse pattern, and the buffer pattern secondarily reduces stress generated between the dummy pattern and the semiconductor substrate, resulting in the prevention of a defect such as a crack.
US08618625B2 Silicon-based schottky barrier detector with improved responsivity
A planar, waveguide-based silicon Schottky barrier photodetector includes a third terminal in the form of a field plate to improve the responsivity of the detector. Preferably, a silicide used for the detection region is formed during a processing step where other silicide contact regions are being formed. The field plate is preferably formed as part of the first or second layer of CMOS metallization and is controlled by an applied voltage to modify the electric field in the vicinity of the detector's silicide layer. By modifying the electric field, the responsivity of the device is “tuned” so as to adjust the momentum of “hot” carriers (electrons or holes, depending on the conductivity of the silicon) with respect to the Schottky barrier of the device. The applied potential functions to align with the direction of momentum of the “hot” carriers in the preferred direction “normal” to the silicon-silicide interface, allowing for an increased number to move over the Schottky barrier and add to the generated photocurrent.
US08618624B2 UV curable encapsulant
The present invention relates to UV curable encapsulant compositions based on acrylic and/or methacrylic block copolymers, to structures containing these compositions especially photovoltaic cells and to the use of these compositions in photovoltaic cells. The liquid encapsulant composition according to the invention comprises: an acrylic or methacrylic block copolymer, at least one acrylic or methacrylic monomer and/or oligomer, and at least one photo initiator.
US08618621B2 Semiconductor device layer structure and method of fabrication
An apparatus comprises a device layer structure, a device integrated into the device layer structure, an insulating carrier substrate and an insulating layer being continuously positioned between the device layer structure and the insulating carrier substrate, the insulating layer having a thickness which is less than 1/10 of a thickness of the insulating carrier substrate. An apparatus further comprises a device integrated into a device layer structure disposed on an insulating layer, a housing layer disposed on the device layer structure and housing the device, a contact providing an electrical connection between the device and a surface of the housing layer opposed to the device layer structure and a molding material surrounding the housing layer and the insulating layer, the molding material directly abutting on a surface of the insulating layer being opposed to the device layer structure.
US08618619B1 Top port with interposer MEMS microphone package and method
A top port MEMS package includes a substrate and an interposer mounted to the substrate. The interposer includes an interposer aperture and an interposer channel fluidly coupled to the interposer aperture. A MEMS electronic component is mounted to the interposer above the interposer aperture. A top port lid includes a top port and a chimney structure fluidly coupling to the top port to the interposer channel. A front volume including the top port, the flue, the interposer channel, and the interposer aperture is acoustically sealed from a relatively large back volume defined by a lid cavity of the top port lid. By acoustically sealing the front volume from the back volume and further by maximizing the back volume, the noise to signal ratio is minimized thus maximizing the sensitivity of top port MEMS microphone package as well as the range of applications.
US08618617B2 Field effect transistor device
A method for forming a field effect transistor device includes forming a gate stack portion on a substrate, forming a spacer portion on the gates stack portion and a portion of the substrate, removing an exposed portion of the substrate, epitaxially growing a first silicon material on the exposed portion of the substrate, removing a portion of the epitaxially grown first silicon material to expose a second portion of the substrate, and epitaxially growing a second silicon material on the exposed second portion of the substrate and the first silicon material.
US08618612B2 Integrated circuits based on aligned nanotubes
Techniques, apparatus and systems are described for wafer-scale processing of aligned nanotube devices and integrated circuits. In one aspect, a method can include growing aligned nanotubes on at least one of a wafer-scale quartz substrate or a wafer-scale sapphire substrate. The method can include transferring the grown aligned nanotubes onto a target substrate. Also, the method can include fabricating at least one device based on the transferred nanotubes.
US08618611B2 Room temperature carbon nanotubes integrated on CMOS
Embodiments of the invention integrate carbon nanotubes on a CMOS substrate using localized heating. An embodiment can allow the CMOS substrate to be in a room-temperature environment during the carbon nanotube growth process. Specific embodiments utilize a maskless post-CMOS microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) process. The post-CMOS MEMS process according to an embodiment of the present invention provides a carbon nanotube growth process that is foundry CMOS compatible. The maskless process, according to an embodiment, eliminates the need for photomasks after the CMOS fabrication and can preserve whatever feature sizes are available in the foundry CMOS process. Embodiments integrate single-walled carbon nanotube devices into a CMOS platform.
US08618610B2 Dummy pattern design for thermal annealing
The present disclosure provides a semiconductor structure including a semiconductor substrate having a device region and a dummy region adjacent the device region; a plurality of active regions in the device region; and a plurality of dummy active regions in the dummy region, where each of the active regions has a first dimension in a first direction and a second dimension in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the first dimension is substantially greater than the second dimension; and each of the dummy active regions has a third dimension in the first direction and a fourth dimension in the second direction, and the third dimension is substantially greater than the fourth dimension. The plurality of dummy active regions are configured such that thermal annealing effect in the dummy region is substantially equal to that of the device region.
US08618606B2 Semiconductor device
Provided is a semiconductor device comprising: a PW layer formed at a surface of a semiconductor substrate; an NW layer formed at the surface of the semiconductor substrate to be in contact with the PW layer; a p+ base layer formed at the surface of the semiconductor substrate in the PW layer; an n+ collector layer formed at the surface of the semiconductor substrate in the NW layer; an n+ emitter layer located between the p+ base layer and the n+ collector layer and formed at the surface of the semiconductor substrate in the PW layer; and an n± layer formed between the n+ collector layer and the PW layer to be in contact with the n+ collector layer.
US08618604B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor wafer has a main surface. A main chip region is formed on the main surface. A sub-chip region is smaller in area than the main chip region, and positioned on an edge side of the semiconductor wafer relative to the main chip region. The sub-chip region is identical to the main chip region in design pattern. Accordingly, a semiconductor device in which occurrence of a pattern failure at the edge of the wafer can be prevented when chips are arranged in the surface of the semiconductor wafer and a method of manufacturing the same can be obtained.
US08618600B2 Integrated circuit including a buried wiring line
Integrated circuits including a buried wiring lien. One embodiment provides a field effect transistor including a first active area and a gate electrode buried below a main surface of a semiconductor substrate. A gate wiring line may be buried below the main surface and a section of the gate wiring line may form the gate electrode. Above the gate wiring line, a buried contact structure is formed that is adjacent to and in direct contact with the first or a second active area.
US08618595B2 Applications of light-emitting nanoparticles
A method for the production of a robust, chemically stable, crystalline, passivated nanoparticle and composition containing the same, that emit light with high efficiencies and size-tunable and excitation energy tunable color. The methods include the thermal degradation of a precursor molecule in the presence of a capping agent at high temperature and elevated pressure. A particular composition prepared by the methods is a passivated silicon nanoparticle composition displaying discrete optical transitions.
US08618578B2 Field effect transistor
A field effect transistor includes a nitride-based semiconductor multi-layer structure, a source electrode (108), a drain electrode (109), a protective film (110), and a gate electrode (112) that is provided in a recess structure, which is formed by etching, directly or with a gate insulating film interposed therebetween. The nitride-based semiconductor multi-layer structure includes at least a base layer (103) made of AlXGa1-XN (0≦1), a channel layer (104) made of GaN or InGaN, a first electron supply layer (105), which is an undoped or n-type AlYGa1-YN layer, a threshold value control layer (106), which is an undoped AlZGa1-ZN layer, and a second electron supply layer (107), which is an undoped or n-type AlWGa1-WN layer, epitaxially grown in this order on a substrate (101) with a buffer layer (102) interposed therebetween. The Al composition of each layer in the nitride-based semiconductor multi-layer structure satisfies 0
US08618577B2 Compound semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
An n-type GaN layer (3), a GaN layer (7) formed over the n-type GaN layer (3), an n-type AlGaN layer (9) formed over the GaN layer (7), a gate electrode (15) and a source electrode (13) formed over the n-type AlGaN layer (9), a drain electrode (14) formed below the n-type GaN layer (3), and a p-type GaN layer (4) formed between the GaN layer (7) and the drain electrode (14) are provided.
US08618574B2 Light-emitting element, display device, and electronic appliance
The present invention provides a light-emitting element having a structure in which the drive voltage is comparatively low and a light-emitting element in which the increase in the drive voltage over time is small. Further, the present invention provides a display device in which the drive voltage and the increase in the drive voltage over time are small and which can resist long-term use. A layer in contact with an electrode in a light-emitting element is a layer containing a P-type semiconductor or a hole-generating layer such as an organic compound layer containing a material having electron-accepting properties. The light-emitting layer is sandwiched between the hole-generating layers, and an electron-generating layer is sandwiched between the light-emitting layer and the hole-generating layer on a cathode side.
US08618573B2 Layered substrate, light-emitting diode including the layered substrate and lighting device using the light-emitting diode
A layered substrate includes a first substrate including an upper surface, a lower surface, a peripheral surface between peripheral edges of the upper surface and the lower surface, and a cut portion cut into the peripheral surface and passing through the upper surface and the lower surface, and a second substrate including an upper surface, a lower surface, and a peripheral surface between peripheral edges of the upper surface and the lower surface, and the lower surface of the second substrate layered on the upper surface of the first substrate and closing the cut portion of the first substrate from above. The second substrate includes a heat conductor that is thermally connected to an element to be mounted on the upper surface of the second substrate, the heat conductor configured to thermally extend to the cut portion of the first substrate.
US08618570B2 LED light engine and method of manufacture thereof
A light emitting diode (LED) light engine includes a solid transparent dome mounted on one or more LED dies to form a base module, a flexible sheath having embedded therein a phosphor that converts light of a first wavelength range to light of a second wavelength range, the sheath being attached to the base module so that the sheath conforms to a light emitting surface of the dome. The sheath emits light of the second wavelength range when the LED is emitting light of the first wavelength range. Further sheaths may be formed each with different phosphors or phosphor blends, and one of the sheaths may be selected to cover the base module depending on the color of light to be produced by the light engine.
US08618566B2 Light emitting device and method of manufacturing the same
Provided is a light emitting device. In one embodiment, a light emitting device includes: a substrate including β-Ga203; a light emitting structure on the substrate, the light emitting structure including a first conductive type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second conductive type semiconductor layer; an electrode on the light emitting structure; and a porous layer at a lateral surface region of the substrate.
US08618563B2 Light emitting device with vertically adjustable light emitting pattern
A light emitting device including a light emitting structure including a first conductive type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second conductive type semiconductor layer; a first photonic crystal structure on the light emitting structure; a lower encapsulant on the first photonic crystal structure; and a second photonic crystal structure on the lower encapsulant.
US08618559B2 Organic electroluminescent display
An organic electroluminescent (EL) display includes a plurality of organic EL devices for red, green, and blue subpixels, each including a first electrode on a light output side, a second electrode opposite the first electrode, and an organic compound layer including a light-emitting layer therebetween. The organic EL devices have a resonator structure between a first reflective surface closer to the first electrode than the organic compound layer and a second reflective surface closer to the second electrode than the organic compound layer. A predetermined white color is displayed by mixing the three colors such that an optical distance of the organic EL devices of each color between an emission position in the light-emitting layer and the second reflective surface is set within ±10% from an optical distance corresponding to an nth-order minimum of a curve of required current density against at least the optical distance.
US08618557B2 Wide-band-gap reverse-blocking MOS-type semiconductor device
A wide-band-gap reverse-blocking MOS-type semiconductor device includes a SiC n−-type drift layer; a p+-type substrate on the first major surface side of the drift layer; a trench extending through a p+-type substrate into the drift layer; a titanium electrode in the trench bottom that forms a Schottky junction with the SiC n−-type drift layer; an active section including a MOS-gate structure on the second major surface side of the drift layer facing to the area, in which the Schottky junctions are formed; a breakdown withstanding section surrounding the active section; and a trench isolation layer surrounding the breakdown withstanding section, the trench isolation layer extending from the second major surface of the drift layer into p+-type substrate and including insulator film buried therein. The device facilitates making a high current flow with a low ON-voltage and exhibits a very reliable reverse blocking capability.
US08618555B2 Silicon carbide semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
The silicon carbide semiconductor device includes a substrate, a drift layer, a base region, a source region, a trench, a gate insulating layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a deep layer. The deep layer is disposed under the base region and is located to a depth deeper than the trench. The deep layer is divided into a plurality of portions in a direction that crosses a longitudinal direction of the trench. The portions include a group of portions disposed at positions corresponding to the trench and arranged at equal intervals in the longitudinal direction of the trench. The group of portions surrounds corners of a bottom of the trench.
US08618554B2 Method to reduce ground-plane poisoning of extremely-thin SOI (ETSOI) layer with thin buried oxide
The present disclosure, which is directed to ultra-thin-body-and-BOX and Double BOX fully depleted SOI devices having an epitaxial diffusion-retarding semiconductor layer that slows dopant diffusion into the SOI channel, and a method of making these devices. Dopant concentrations in the SOI channels of the devices of the present disclosure having an epitaxial diffusion-retarding semiconductor layer between the substrate and SOI channel are approximately 50 times less than the dopant concentrations measured in SOI channels of devices without the epitaxial diffusion-retarding semiconductor layer.
US08618552B2 Low micropipe 100 mm silicon carbide wafer
A high quality single crystal wafer of SiC is disclosed having a diameter of at least about 100 mm and a micropipe density of less than about 25 cm−2.
US08618550B2 Large area organic light emitting diode display
The invention relates to a large area organic light emitting diode display having a uniformed luminescence throughout the display area. The invention suggests an organic light emitting diode display comprising a thin film transistor substrate including a thin film transistor, a driving current line to supply an electric signal to the thin film transistor, a driving line contact hole to expose some portions of the driving current line, and an organic light emitting diode connected to the thin film transistor; a cap including a cap substrate and an auxiliary electrode disposed on a surface of the cap substrate with an area that is at least ⅓ of an area of the cap substrate; a conductive sealing material to electrically connect the auxiliary electrode and the driving current line through the driving line contact hole; and an organic adhesive joining the thin film transistor substrate and the cap.
US08618546B2 Backplane for flat panel display apparatus, flat panel display apparatus, and method of manufacturing the backplane
A backplane includes: a substrate, a pixel electrode, which includes a transparent conductive material, on the substrate, a capacitor first electrode formed on the same layer as the pixel electrode, a first protection layer covering the capacitor first electrode and an upper edge of the pixel electrode, a gate electrode of a thin film transistor (TFT) formed on the first protection layer, a capacitor second electrode formed on the same layer as the gate electrode, a first insulating layer that covers the gate electrode and the capacitor second electrode, a semiconductor layer that is formed on the first insulating layer and includes a transparent conductive material, a second insulating layer covering the semiconductor layer, source and drain electrodes of the TFT that are formed on the second insulating layer, and a third insulating layer that covers the source and drain electrodes and exposes the pixel electrode.
US08618544B2 Thin film transistor and display device
To improve problems with on-state current and off-state current of thin film transistors, a thin film transistor includes a pair of impurity semiconductor layers to which an impurity element imparting one conductivity type is added, provided with a space therebetween; a conductive layer which is overlapped, over the gate insulating layer, with the gate electrode and one of the pair of impurity semiconductor layers to which an impurity element imparting one conductivity type is added; and an amorphous semiconductor layer which is provided successively between the pair of impurity semiconductor layers to which an impurity element imparting one conductivity type is added in such a manner that the amorphous semiconductor layer extends over the gate insulating layer from the conductive layer and is in contact with both of the pair of impurity semiconductor layers to which an impurity element imparting one conductivity type is added.
US08618543B2 Thin film transistor including selectively crystallized channel layer and method of manufacturing the thin film transistor
Provided are a thin film transistor (TFT) including a selectively crystallized channel layer, and a method of manufacturing the TFT. The TFT includes a gate, the channel layer, a source, and a drain. The channel layer is formed of an oxide semiconductor, and at least a portion of the channel layer contacting the source and the drain is crystallized. In the method of manufacturing the TFT, the channel layer is formed of an oxide semiconductor, and a metal component is injected into the channel layer so as to crystallize at least a portion of the channel layer contacting the source and the drain. The metal component can be injected into the channel layer by depositing and heat-treating a metal layer or by ion-implantation.
US08618540B2 Semiconductor packages
Provided are a semiconductor package, a semiconductor memory module including the semiconductor package, and a system including the semiconductor memory module. The semiconductor package may include a plurality of main terminals arranged on a surface of the semiconductor package with constant intervals, and the plurality of main terminals may include terminals of a first set including a plurality of input/output terminals to which test signals may be input, and terminals of a second set including a plurality of input/output terminals to/from which signals other than the test signals may be input/output.
US08618536B2 Organic light-emitting element, display panel, display device, and manufacturing method for organic light-emitting element
A planarization film is formed as a silicon oxide monolayer using, for instance, a spin coat method, through, for example, applying a silicon-containing organic solvent to an upper portion of a TFT layer and planarizing an upper surface of a resist film made up of a silicon-containing organic solvent, heating a predetermined processing fluid, e.g., peroxymonosulfuric acid, and discharging the processing fluid heated to, for example, 150° C., onto the planarized upper surface of the resist film such that organic components of the resist film are dissolved while silicon in the resist film is oxidized by the processing fluid.
US08618526B2 Nonvolatile memory device and manufacturing method thereof
Provided are a nonvolatile memory device which can suppress non-uniformity in initial breakdown voltages among nonvolatile memory elements and prevent reduction of yield, and a manufacturing method thereof. The nonvolatile memory device includes a nonvolatile memory element (108) having a stacked-layer structure in which a resistance variable layer (106) is parallel to a main surface of a substrate (117) and is planarized, and a plug (103) electrically connected to either a first electrode (105) or a second electrode (107), and an area of an end surface of a plug (103) at which the plug (103) and the nonvolatile memory element (108) are connected together, the end surface being parallel to the main surface of the substrate (117), is greater than a cross-sectional area of a cross-section of a first transition metal oxide layer (115) which is an electrically-conductive region, the cross-section being parallel to the main surface of the substrate (117).
US08618524B2 Phase change memory with various grain sizes
A memory device includes a phase change element, which further includes a first phase change layer having a first grain size; and a second phase change layer over the first phase change layer. The first and the second phase change layers are depth-wise regions of the phase change element. The second phase change layer has a second average grain size different from the first average grain size.
US08618519B2 Energy degrader and charged particle irradiation system including the same
An energy degrader includes: an attenuation member that attenuates energy of entering charged particles to a different amount of energy according to an incident position of the charged particles; an energy adjustment drive unit that drives the attenuation member in a first axial direction in order to change the incident position of the charged particles; and a beam diameter adjustment drive unit that drives the attenuation member in a second axial direction different from the first axial direction in order to adjust the beam diameter of the charged particles.
US08618514B2 Ion implantation device and a method of semiconductor manufacturing by the implantation of boron hydride cluster ions
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes the steps of: providing a supply of molecules containing a plurality of dopant atoms into an ionization chamber, ionizing said molecules into dopant cluster ions, extracting and accelerating the dopant cluster ions with an electric field, selecting the desired cluster ions by mass analysis, modifying the final implant energy of the cluster ion through post-analysis ion optics, and implanting the dopant cluster ions into a semiconductor substrate. In general, dopant molecules contain n dopant atoms, where n is an integer number greater than 10. This method enables increasing the dopant dose rate to n times the implantation current with an equivalent per dopant atom energy of 1/n times the cluster implantation energy, while reducing the charge per dopant atom by the factor n.
US08618512B2 Storage phosphor panel with overcoat comprising dye
A storage phosphor screen including a substrate; a phosphor layer disposed over the substrate; and an overcoat layer disposed over the phosphor layer, wherein the overcoat layer comprises at least one organic solvent-soluble polymer and at least one light absorbing colorant, and wherein the light absorbing colorant is dispersed within the organic solvent-soluble polymer. Also disclosed is a method of preparing a storage phosphor screen including providing a substrate; providing a phosphor solution comprising a solvent, at least one stimulable phosphor, and a binder; providing an overcoat solution comprising a solvent, at least one organic solvent-soluble polymer and at least one light absorbing colorant; forming a phosphor layer over a surface of the substrate with the phosphor solution; and forming an overcoat layer over the phosphor layer with the overcoat solution, wherein the light absorbing colorant is dispersed within the overcoat layer.
US08618510B2 Optically integrated microfluidic cytometers for high throughput screening of photophysical properties of cells or particles
Devices and methods for screening emissive properties of a cell, such as the resistance to photobleaching or other photophysical property. In one example, a device may include a microfluidic reservoir having at least an input channel for receiving the cell, a main channel fluidly coupled with the input channel, at least a first output channel and a second output channel, the first and second output channels fluidly coupled with the main channel; and a multibeam interrogation section generating a plurality of light beams impinging upon the main channel of the microfluidic reservoir. As a cell passes from the input channel through the main channel of the microfluidic reservoir, the cell is exposed to the plurality of light beams thereby generating emissions that are received by a signal processing section. A cell trapping section selectively diverts the cell to the second output channel if the cell contains desired emissive properties.
US08618507B1 Substrates, systems and methods for analyzing materials
Substrates, systems and methods for analyzing materials that include waveguide arrays disposed upon or within the substrate such that evanescent fields emanating from the waveguides illuminate materials disposed upon or proximal to the surface of the substrate, permitting analysis of such materials. The substrates, systems and methods are used in a variety of analytical operations, including, inter alia, nucleic acid analysis, including hybridization and sequencing analyses, cellular analyses and other molecular analyses.
US08618501B2 Ion generating device for duct
Provided is an ion generating device for an air-conditioner duct, which can be easily attached to the inside of an existing air conditioner duct and can ensure a desired ion generation quantity. The ion generating elements of the sub-units (3, 4, 5) of the ion generating device are connected to the drive circuit of the ion generating device main unit (2), and are driven by the drive circuit.
US08618496B2 Charged particle system comprising a manipulator device for manipulation of one or more charged particle beams
A charged particle system such as a multi beam lithography system. A manipulator device manipulates one or more charged particle beams. The manipulator device includes at least one through opening in the plane of the planar substrate for passing at least one charged particle. Each through opening is provided with electrodes arranged in a first set of multiple first electrodes along a first part of a perimeter of the through opening and in a second set of multiple second electrodes along a second part of the perimeter. An electronic control circuit is arranged for providing voltage differences the electrodes in dependence of a position of the first and second electrode along the perimeter of the through opening.
US08618495B2 Method and apparatus for analog pulse pile-up rejection
A method and apparatus for pulse pile-up rejection are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a delay value application constituent configured to receive a threshold-crossing time value, and provide an adjustable value according to a delay value and the threshold-crossing time value; and a comparison constituent configured to receive a peak-occurrence time value and the adjustable value, compare the peak-occurrence time value with the adjustable value, indicate pulse acceptance if the peak-occurrence time value is less than or equal to the adjustable value, and indicate pulse rejection if the peak-occurrence time value is greater than the adjustable value.
US08618490B2 Method for determining radiation attenuation in a positron emission tomography scanner
A method is disclosed for determining radiation attenuation as a result of an object in a positron emission tomography scanner. In at least one embodiment, a phantom object is arranged in the positron emission tomography scanner during the method. First raw radiation data of the phantom object is acquired while the object is not arranged in the positron emission tomography scanner. A first image of the phantom object is calculated from the first raw radiation data. The object then is arranged in the positron emission tomography scanner (2) and preliminary radiation attenuation of the object is identified. Second raw radiation data of the phantom object is acquired while the object is arranged in the positron emission tomography scanner. A second image of the phantom object is calculated from the second raw radiation data taking into account the preliminary radiation attenuation. The radiation attenuation is determined on the basis of the first image and the second image.
US08618479B2 Magnifying observation apparatus
Observation fields of an electron microscope image and an optical magnifying observation image are smoothly switched. A magnifying observation apparatus includes: a pair of end-face plates closes end faces of a body portion; an electron beam imaging device mounted on a first position of a cylindrical shaped outer surface of the body portion; an optical imaging device mounted on a second position being different from the first position in the outer surface; a rotating device that rotates the both imaging devices along the outer surface such that a distance from each of the both imaging devices to a common rotation axis of the both imaging devices is kept constant and optical axes of the both imaging devices are oriented toward the rotation axis; a specimen stage that is disposed in the chamber, and arranged to a position that is substantially the same to a height of the rotation axis.
US08618476B2 Ion mobility based separation methods and apparatus
The present invention describes separating components in a sample in an ion mobility based spectrometer using at least one matching property of the components other than the molecular properties in conventional ion mobility measurements in noble drift gases to enhance separation and resolution of the sample. Separation based on the matching property is realized by altering the drift media of the IMS. Besides altering drift media, energy level of ions and/or drift media are also controlled during the separation process. This invention describes an ion mobility apparatus wherein an energy source is added to the IMS that provides additional energy to the ions and/or drift media and tuning methods that involve selecting drift media and optimizing the energy level in order to achieve optimal performance.
US08618467B2 Absolute encoder that detects an absolute position of an object
An absolute encoder (100) includes a scale portion (41) movable along with the object and including first and second track (42, 43) having first and second slits (44, 45), a light source (1) that illuminates a light onto the first and second slits, a first detector (9) that detects a first signal obtained from a light from the first slit, a second detector (10) that detects a second signal obtained from a light from the second slit, and a calculator (25, 27) that calculates an absolute position of an object based on the first and second signals. The second slit is formed so that a reflected light intensity or a transmitted light intensity is different in accordance with a position in a moving direction of the scale portion. The calculator obtains an upper-level signal, a middle-level signal, and a lower-level signal to calculate the absolute position.
US08618466B2 Position-measuring device having a first measuring standard and at least two multiturn code disks
A position-measuring device for measuring linear and/or angular positions includes a first measuring standard that has a first code track, with the aid of which consecutive position regions are cyclically measurable, and at least two multiturn code disks having second code tracks, via whose angular positions the currently measured position region of the first code track may be determined. The first measuring standard and the multiturn code disks are positioned such that the first code track and the second code tracks are scannable by a common scanning unit, through a first scanning window and second scanning windows, respectively.
US08618454B2 Microwavable container
A microwavable container for receiving food and to be put into a microwave oven for microwave heating. The microwave oven includes a support surface for supporting the microwavable container placed therein. The microwavable container is composed of a main body and a support member. The main body includes an internal bottom wall and an internal peripheral wall, both of which jointly define a chamber for receiving the food. The support member is provided with a predetermined height and located at a bottom side of the main body in such a way that a gap is formed between the internal bottom wall of the main body and the support surface of the microwave oven while the container is placed into the microwave oven. In this way, the microwave can pass through the gap to heat where the food is close to the internal bottom wall of the container.
US08618451B2 Heater member for chair and method for producing the same
A heater member for a chair, of which the dimension as measured in the width direction is not constant, includes a fabric of a weft knitting structure having a plurality of conductive threads woven into the fabric as a part of constituent yarn. Each of the conductive threads has substantially the same length.
US08618450B2 Domestic oven and cooking process that uses the same
A domestic oven comprises heating means, a gas sensor connected to a central processing and control unit and a user interface connected to the central processing unit by means of which the user can set the type of food placed in the oven compartment. The user interface comprises means for setting the desired degree of cooking of the food and is capable of processing the signal of the gas sensor in such a way as to determine the optimal cooking end time of the food. The central processing unit interrupts the electrical supply to the heating means on the basis either of said cooking end time, modified if necessary on the basis of degree of cooking set by the user, or of the food type set by the user.
US08618447B2 Deep fryer and method for cooking food products
The fryer (1) for cooking a food product, comprises a main body (2) for housing a tilted container (3) adapted to receive the cooking oil, a tilted basket for containing the food product, positioned in an extractable manner in the container, first (30, 31) and second heating means (49), a selector for selecting a first cooking mode in a first volume of oil with the first heating means or a second cooking mode in a second volume of oil greater than the first volume of oil with the second heating means, and rotation means (17) adapted to operate in rotation the basket (11) or at least a mixing paddle (13) present or positionable inside the basket.
US08618443B2 Vehicle lighting device
A conventional vehicle lighting device has entailed a problem on swaging and fixing a power-feeding portion and a connector to each other insofar. In the present invention, a connector is made up of: a male terminal set at a power-feeding electrically conductive paste on one face of a power-feeding film of a power-feeding portion; a grommeted terminal board (primary swaging tool) on which the terminal and the power-feeding portion have been swaged; and a resin board (secondary swaging tool) on which the male terminal, the power-feeding portion, and the grommeted terminal board have been swaged. As a result, in the present invention, a swaging fixing strength between the power-feeding portion and the connector can be improved by means of the primary swaging fixing of the grommeted terminal board and the secondary swaging fixing of the resin board.
US08618425B2 Sensor module having an electromagnetically shielded electrical component
In a module having an electrical component, which is situated between two ground planes for electromagnetic shielding, a trough-shaped composite component is provided between an inner and an outer housing, into which the rear side of the inner housing is inserted, the composite component having an insulator trough and, on its inside, a ground plane formed at least on the trough bottom, which forms the shielding of a rear side of the electrical component. The composite component is advantageously designed as an MID component. The outer housing of the module may be manufactured in the two-component injection molding process by extrusion-coating initially using an elastomer and subsequently a thermoplast.
US08618423B2 Mounting board including a flat-type electrical element and capable of being reduced in size, and lead-attached electric element that is flat in shape and has a lead bonded to each electrode face
A lead-attached electrical element and a mounting board to which the lead-attached electrical element is mounted both contribute to a reduction in the size of the mounting board as well as facilitate rework. The lead-attached electrical element is constituted from an electrical element and two leads. Each lead includes a main portion which is bonded to a respective electrode face of the electrical element, and a bent portion which is inclined with respect to the main portion. The mounting board is constituted from a PC (printed circuit) board and the lead-attached electrical element. Two conductive lands are provided on a surface of the PC board. The lead-attached electrical element has been inserted into an aperture in the PC board, and bent portions of the leads attached to the electrical element are bonded to the conductive lands so that the electrical element is suspended in the aperture by the leads.
US08618417B2 Electric wire having a PTFE covering that is robust and that has a low dielectric constant, and a method and a tool for manufacturing the same
An electric wire that has a conductor held by spacers in a covering of polytetrafluoro-ethylene (PTFE), continuous cells being formed between the covering, the spacers, and the conductor. In an axial section, the majority of the PTFE fibers of the spacers point in a substantially radial direction, thereby imparting excellent robustness to the spacers. A method of manufacturing such an electric wire, in which method an extrudate of PTFE is caused to pass through an extrusion passage around the conductor in such a manner as to form the covering; so that: upstream from an expansion section, the covering is formed by a guide; and downstream from this section, the cells are formed by section members, the spacers being formed by filling expansion channels situated between walls of the section members.
US08618413B2 Power cable
A power cable (10) has a metal conductor encased in a first outer sheath (11), and further encased, partially along the length of the cable, in a second outer sheath (12, 13, 14) which influences the pattern of deformation of the cable under mechanical stress.
US08618410B2 Manufacturing apparatus and method for large-scale production of thin-film solar cells
A method of manufacturing improved thin-film solar cells entirely by sputtering includes a high efficiency back contact/reflecting multi-layer containing at least one barrier layer consisting of a transition metal nitride. A copper indium gallium diselenide (Cu(InXGa1-X)Se2) absorber layer (X ranging from 1 to approximately 0.7) is co-sputtered from specially prepared electrically conductive targets using dual cylindrical rotary magnetron technology. The band gap of the absorber layer can be graded by varying the gallium content, and by replacing the gallium partially or totally with aluminum. Alternately the absorber layer is reactively sputtered from metal alloy targets in the presence of hydrogen selenide gas. RF sputtering is used to deposit a non-cadmium containing window layer of ZnS. The top transparent electrode is reactively sputtered aluminum doped ZnO. A unique modular vacuum roll-to-roll sputtering machine is described. The machine is adapted to incorporate dual cylindrical rotary magnetron technology to manufacture the improved solar cell material in a single pass.
US08618409B2 Protective layers for a glass barrier in a photovoltaic device
A photovoltaic device includes at least one photovoltaic cell, a flexible glass layer formed over the at least one photovoltaic cell and a transparent and abrasion resistant film which includes an organic-inorganic hybrid material formed over the glass layer.
US08618404B2 File creation process, file format and file playback apparatus enabling advanced audio interaction and collaboration capabilities
A file creation process, file format and playback device are provided that enables an interactive and if desired collaborative music playback experience for the user(s) by combining or retrofitting an “original song” with a MIDI time grid, the MIDI score of the song and other data in a synchronized fashion. The invention enables a music interaction platform that requires a small amount of time to learn and very little skill, knowledge or talent to use and is designed to bring “mixing music” to the average person.
US08618403B2 Tone control apparatus
When a signal representing a first set value or more is received from a detecting section, a determination is made whether a boost value is a predetermined value or more. When the boost value is the predetermined value or more, a currently set boost value is reduced by a predetermined step, so that a new boost value is set. Further, when the boost value is less than the predetermined value, a currently set volume level is reduced by a predetermined step, and a new volume level is set. Therefore, in a case when the set boost value is gradually reduced and the boost value is finally less than the predetermined value, the audio signal is still the first set value or more, the volume level is further reduced by each predetermined step. Therefore, an audio signal can be securely prevented from being clipped.
US08618402B2 Musical harmony generation from polyphonic audio signals
Melody and accompaniment audio signals are received and processed to identify one or more harmony notes and a harmony signal is produced based on the one or more harmony notes. Typically the melody note is identified and a spectrum of the accompaniment audio signal and is obtained, and one or more harmony notes are identified based on the melody note and the accompaniment spectrum. The melody, and accompaniment signals can be processed in real-time for combination with the harmony signal in an audio performance. In some examples, audio signals are processed and harmonies generated for subsequent performance based on, for example, MIDI files generated from the audio signals.
US08618401B2 Information processing apparatus, melody line extraction method, bass line extraction method, and program
An information processing apparatus is provided which includes a signal conversion unit for converting an audio signal to a pitch signal indicating a signal intensity of each pitch, a melody probability estimation unit for estimating for each frame a probability of each pitch being a melody note, based on the audio signal, and a melody line determination unit for detecting a maximum likelihood path from among paths of pitches from a start frame to an end frame of the audio signal, and for determining the maximum likelihood path as a melody line, based on the probability of each pitch being a melody note, the probability being estimated for each frame by the melody probability estimation unit.
US08618399B2 Musical score recognition device and computer-readable storage medium
There are provided an image acquisition unit acquiring an image containing information of a paper-based musical score from an image reading-out unit, and a musical character recognition unit recognizing a musical character contained in the image acquired by the image acquisition unit by using a plurality of musical character recognition methods, and outputting a plurality of musical character recognition results.
US08618396B1 Modular concert drum throw
The modular throw assembly disclosed herein comprises a plurality of throws comprising lever arms positionably mounted upon a single shaft. In one form, the lever arms are allowed to slide longitudinally along a portion of the shaft while the lever arms are in the released position, but are may be less likely to be longitudinally repositioned when in the tensioned position as the tension of the snare set will produce sufficient friction to hinder longitudinal sliding. In other embodiments, a setscrew or other component may be utilized to fix the position of each lever arm along the axis of the shaft. In another embodiment, narrow or wide spacers may alternatively be provided between each adjacent lever arm to provide this spacing between adjacent lever arms.
US08618389B2 Capo for stringed musical instruments
A tuning apparatus for a musical instrument is provided. The instrument includes a neck having a front surface over which a plurality of strings is stretched. The apparatus includes a clamp and a plurality of string-contacting members. The clamp is adapted to removably attach to a desired longitudinal position on the neck. Each of the members is rotatably supported by the clamp and is adapted to rotate on the clamp independently of the other members, this rotation occurring along a plane which is substantially parallel to either a given string or course of strings. Each of the members is further adapted to adjustably impinge upon and urge the given string or course of strings toward a user-selectable one of three different longitudinal positions on the front surface, these positions including a home position, a home−1 position, and a home+1 position.
US08618388B2 Bearing and shaft assemblies, including tuning keys and tuner assemblies for stringed instruments, methods of using bearing and shaft assemblies, and methods of making bearing and shaft assemblies
Bearing and shaft assemblies include a shaft with at least one depressed region. A first one-way bearing can be positioned on the shaft in a manner such that the first one-way bearing facilitates clockwise rotation and resists counterclockwise rotation. A second one-way bearing can be positioned on the shaft in a manner such that the second one-way bearing facilitates rotation in the second direction and resists rotation in the first direction. The first one-way bearing and the second one-way bearing can be displaced axially along the shaft so the first one-way bearing, the second one-way bearing, or both one-way bearings is/are positioned around the one or more depressed regions of the shaft to facilitate rotation in one direction, both directions or neither direction, as described herein. Other aspects, embodiments, and features are also included.
US08618387B2 Bracing system for stringed instrument
A bracing structure for a soundboard for a musical instrument is disclosed, the bracing structure being a unitary sheet structure having a plurality of elongate semi-tubular elements. Each of the elongate semi-tubular elements has a length, a thickness, a width, a height and an interior resonance space. The sheet structure may be formed of two or more layers. The elongate semi-tubular elements function as traditional braces, however, the shape of the elongate semi-tubular elements may be modified to provide a desired tonal quality.
US08618386B2 Adjustable guitar ramp
A stringed instrument and a ramp which including a flexible plate and a plurality of rotatable elements or screws for flexing the plate to adjust the curvature of the plate with respect to the strings with the rotatable elements or screws rotatably disposed in the flexible plate for flexing the plate to adjust the curvature of the plate along at least two axes with two spaced screws operably disposed in the plate for flexing the plate in relation to the adjacent string, so that the distance between each string and the flexible plate is adjusted to the desired specifications of the musician.
US08618383B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH892315
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH892315. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH892315, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH892315 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH892315.
US08618376B1 Maize variety hybrid X13B629
A novel maize variety designated X13B629 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 X13B629 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X13B629 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X13B629, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X13B629. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X13B629.
US08618369B2 Soybean variety S110149
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated S110149. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety S110149. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety S110149 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety S110149 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08618366B2 Soybean variety A1026711
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1026711. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1026711. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1026711 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1026711 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08618364B2 Soybean cultivar S100297
A soybean cultivar designated S100297 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S100297, to the plants of soybean cultivar S100297, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S100297, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S100297. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S100297. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S100297, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S100297 with another soybean cultivar.
US08618362B2 Soybean variety A1024337
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1024337. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1024337. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1024337 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1024337 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08618361B1 Melons
The present invention provides novel melon plants and plant parts, seed, fruit, and tissue culture therefrom. The invention also provides methods for producing a melon plant by crossing the melon plants of the invention with themselves or another melon plant. The invention also provides plants produced from such a crossing as well as plant parts, seed, fruit, and tissue culture therefrom.
US08618359B2 Rice transgenic event 17053 and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides a transgenic rice event 17053 and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products derived from event 17053. The present invention also provides polynucleotides specific for event 17053 and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products comprising polynucleotides specific for event 17053. The invention also provides methods related to event 17053.
US08618357B2 Sweetpotato SRD1 cDNA and transgenic plants with high-numbered storage roots using the same
Disclosed herein are a sweetpotato SRD1 cDNA, a plant transformation vector carrying the same, and a transgenic plant comprising the vector. The thickening growth of storage roots of the transgenic sweetpotato prepared using the SRD1 cDNA is stimulated, increasing the number of storage roots by up to two times. Therefore, SRD1 according to the present subject matter is useful in the generation of transgenic root crops with high-numbered storage roots or early-maturing storage root plants.
US08618339B2 High selectivity process to make dihydrofluoroalkenes
Disclosed is a method for the synthesis of fluorinated alkenes comprising contacting a fluorinated alkyne of the formula R1 C≡C R2, wherein R1 and R2 are independently selected from CF3, C2F5, C3F7, and C4F9, in a pressure vessel, with a Lindlar catalyst, with substantially one molar equivalent of hydrogen, to make the corresponding cis-alkene of formula R1 C≡C R2 with high selectivity, wherein said hydrogen is added in portions over a period of time, so as to produce an initial pressure in the pressure in the vessel of no more than about 100 psi.
US08618338B2 Process for the manufacture of hydrofluoroolefins
In this invention we are disclosing a process for the synthesis of hydrocchlorofluoro olefins (HCFO) and/or hydrofluoroolefins (HFO). The process is based on the gas phase, noncatalytic fluorination of hydrochlorofluoropropenes to form hydrofluoropropenes.
US08618337B2 Process for preparing polyether alcohols
The invention relates to a process for preparing polyether alcohols by reacting a) aromatic amines with b) alkylene oxides in the presence of c) a catalyst, wherein the alkylene oxide b) comprises at least 90% by weight, based on the weight of the component b), of propylene oxide and an amine is used as catalyst c).
US08618333B2 Reagents and method for conjugating biological molecules
A compound of the general formula X-[Q-W—(CH═CH)n—(CH2)2-L]m (I) in which X represents a polymer; Q represents a linking group; W represents an electron-withdrawing group; n represents 0 or an integer of from 1 to 4; L represents a leaving group; and m represent an integer of from 1 to 8. The compounds find use in the conjugation of biological molecules.
US08618330B2 Hexafluorodimethylcarbinol terminated alkane- and alkenethiols
A hexafluorodimethylcarbinol terminated compound, method of making it, and a composition of matter are disclosed. The compound may have the formula (CF3)2C(OH)-L-M-R. The substructure L may be selected from an optionally substituted propenylene group (—CH2CH═CH—) and trimethylene group (—CH2CH2CH2—). The substructure M may be selected from a substituted or unsubstituted methylene chain, a substituted or unsubstituted oxyalkylene chain, and a silicon-containing chain or combination thereof. In one embodiment, M may be selected from —(CH2)n—, —(OCH2CH2)m—, and —(Si(CH3)2O)p—Si(CH3)2—(CH2)q—, wherein n is at least 1, e.g., n is up to 10, m can be at least 1, e.g., m is up to 10, p can be 0 and in one embodiment is from 1 to 10, and wherein q can be 1 and in one embodiment is from 1 to 12. The substructure R represents one of a halogen, —SH, —SZ, —S—S-M-L-C(CF3)2(OH), wherein Z represents a thiol protecting group.
US08618327B2 Antibacterial agents and methods of use thereof
The present invention relates generally to compounds providing antibacterial therapeutic agents and preparations, and related methods of using and making antibacterial compounds. Antibacterial compounds of the present invention include chalcone, alkylpyrimidine, aminopyrimidine and cyanopyridine compounds and derivatives thereof exhibiting minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) similar to or less than conventional antibacterial compounds in wide use. For example, the present invention provides chalcone and cyanopyridine compounds, and derivatives thereof, exhibiting high antibacterial activities having multiple electron withdrawing group substituents, such as halogens and fluorinated alkyl groups, and optionally having hydroxyl and/or alkoxyl groups substituents.
US08618322B2 Process for preparing alkanediol and dialkyl carbonate
The invention relates to a process for the preparation of an alkanediol and a dialkyl carbonate comprising: reacting an alkylene carbonate and an alkanol in the presence of a transesterification catalyst to obtain a reaction mixture comprising dialkyl carbonate, unconverted alkanol, alkanediol and unconverted alkylene carbonate; and then subjecting the mixture to separation in three distillation columns.
US08618319B2 Metal complex and method for producing α-olefin polymer and method for producing α-olefin/(meth)acrylate copolymer using the same
A novel catalyst component for producing a crystalline α-olefin polymer or α-olefin/(meth)acrylate copolymer having few branches, especially a polymer having a high molecular weight, and a method for producing an α-olefin polymer or an α-olefin/(meth)acrylate copolymer using the catalyst component.A metal complex represented by the following general formula (D), as well as a method for producing an α-olefin polymer and a method for producing an α-olefin/(meth)acrylate copolymer using the metal complex.
US08618318B2 Process for the preparation of palladium (I) tri-tert-butylphosphine bromide dimer
The present invention provides a process for the preparation of a complex of formula (I) comprising the steps of: (a) mixing Pd(diolefin)Br2 and tBu3P in a solvent; and (b) adding an alkali hydroxide to form the complex of formula (I).
US08618317B2 Organic electroluminescence device
The present invention relates to organic electroluminescence devices containing metal complexes having the formula (1) and metal complexes for use in organic electroluminescence devices.
US08618314B2 Exo- and diastereo-selective synthesis of himbacine analogs
This application discloses a novel process for the preparation of himbacine analogs useful as thrombin receptor antagonists. The process is based in part on the use of a base-promoted dynamic epimerization of a chiral nitro center. The chemistry taught herein can be exemplified by the following:
US08618312B2 Method of producing bicyclo[3.1.0] hexane derivative using enzyme
Production of a bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane derivative, useful as a metabotropic glutamate receptor modulator, becomes possible by a production method that includes converting a compound represented by Formula (II) into a compound represented by Formula (III) by reaction with an acyl group donor in the presence of a microorganism-derived enzyme, without using an expensive optically active trans hydroxy ester as a starting material and without employing a fluorination reaction requiring an ultralow temperature reaction. Furthermore, since asymmetric synthesis can be carried out in a stage closer to the final product, the production method is useful as a production method that can mass produce a bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane derivative.
US08618311B2 Synthetic processes for the preparation of aminocyclohexyl ether compounds
This invention is directed to stereoselective synthesis of compounds of formula (I) or formula (II): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester, amide, complex, chelate, clathrate, solvate, polymorph, stereoisomer, metabolite or prodrug thereof; wherein R3, R4 and R5 are defined herein. Compounds of formula (I) and formula (II) are known to be useful in treating arrhythmias.
US08618308B2 Process for the preparation of 4-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)-2-propyl-imidazole-5-carboxylates
The present invention discloses a process for obtaining 4-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)-2-propyl-imidazole-5-carboxylate by the reaction of 4,4-dimethyl-2-propyl-4,6-dihydrofuro[3,4-d]imidazole, or its hydrolysis product, or its ring-opening product, with alcohol under appropriate catalytic conditions. Furthermore, the present invention also provides a process for obtaining high purity 4,4-dimethyl-2-propyl-4,6-dihydrofuro[3,4-d]imidazole.
US08618307B2 Compounds that modulate intracellular calcium
Described herein are compounds and pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, which modulate the activity of store-operated calcium (SOC) channels. Also described herein are methods of using such SOC channel modulators, alone and in combination with other compounds, for treating diseases or conditions that would benefit from inhibition of SOC channel activity.
US08618306B2 Method for preparing deuterated diphenylurea
Disclosed are an intermediate compound of N-(1,1,1-trideuterated methyl)phthalimide, and its use in the preparation of deuterated diphenylurea derivative.
US08618301B2 5-phenylpyrazolopyridine derivatives, preparation and therapeutic use thereof
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I).
US08618293B2 Redox mediators
The present invention relates to ruthenium and osmium complexes of Formula [M(A)w(B)x(C)y]m(Xz)n, per se and the use of ruthenium and osmium complexes of Formula I as redox mediators in electrochemical biosensors.
US08618292B2 Analogs of dehydrophenylahistins and their therapeutic use
Compounds represented by the following structure (II) are disclosed: as are methods for making such compounds. Compositions and methods for treating various disease conditions including cancer and non-cancer diseases associated with vascular proliferation are also disclosed.
US08618290B2 HSP90 inhibitors
The invention relates to HSP90 inhibiting compounds consisting of the formula: wherein the variables are as defined herein. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions, kits and articles of manufacture comprising such compounds; methods and intermediates useful for making the compounds; and methods of using said compounds.
US08618286B2 Benzoxazines, benzothiazines, and related compounds having NOS inhibitory activity
The present invention features benzoxazines, benzothiazines, and related compounds that inhibit nitric oxide synthase (NOS), particularly those that selectively inhibit neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in preference to other NOS isoforms. Exemplary compounds are of the formula: The NOS inhibitors of the invention, alone or in combination with other pharmaceutically active agents, can be used for treating or preventing various medical conditions.
US08618285B2 Triazole derivatives
Novel triazole derivatives of the formula (I), in which R1-R6, and Y have the meanings indicated in claim 1, are HSP90 inhibitors and can be used for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of diseases in which the inhibition, regulation and/or modulation of HSP90 plays a role.
US08618284B2 Methods of preparing polymorphic form A of bazedoxifene acetate
The present invention relates to methods of preparing polymorphic Form A of bazedoxifene acetate and polymorphic Form A prepared by such methods.
US08618283B2 Ligand libraries for screening GPCRs
The invention provides compounds of general formulae (I)-(IV) or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof: The invention also provides methods of preparing the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds and use of the compounds for the preparation of medicaments intended to modulate the activity of one or more members of the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) class. Compounds of the invention may be used to create a compound library for use in screening for agents which modulate signalling through GPCRs.
US08618281B2 Geometric synthesis of porphyrin rods
A method of making a compound of Formula I′ comprises reacting a compound of the formula DLCHO, with a compound of the formula to produce the compound of Formula I′. Methods of using the compounds are also described, particularly as intermediates for the synthesis of porphyrin rods, which porphyrin rods are in turn useful for (among other things) the production of molecular memory devices.
US08618279B2 Synthesis of 2′,3′— and 3′,5′—cyclic phosphate mono-and oligonucleotides
The invention provides a novel method for the chemical synthesis of 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate and phosphorothioate of mono and terminated oligonucleotides synthesis. The invention also provides a novel method of for the chemical synthesis of 2′,3′- and 3′,5′-cyclic phosphate and phosphorothioate mononucleotide nucleotides. The process is based on quick and efficient cyclization of phosphoramidate moiety and neighboring hydroxyl group. The present invention is directed towards the synthesis of high purity DNA and RNAs, specifically to introduce cyclic phosphate at 3′-end of oligonucleotides. Such DNA and RNA's have extensive application in therapeutics, diagnostics, drug design, and selective inhibition of an RNA sequence within cellular environment, in pre-tRNA cleavage and in ribozyme ligation. The 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate nucleosides are involved in a vast number of applications in molecular biology in general and mammalian cells in particular. The invention also envisions providing kits comprising at least one composition disclosed in the present invention.
US08618273B2 Partial fragment of REIC/Dkk-3 gene and cancer therapeutic agent comprising the same
This invention provides an inducer of apoptosis in cancer cells comprising a fragment of the REIC/Dkk-3 gene and a cancer therapeutic agent comprising the same. This invention also provides a polynucleotide fragment encoding the REIC/Dkk-3 protein (a) or (b), which encodes a polypeptide having apoptosis activity: (a) a polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence of amino acid 1 to any of amino acids 39 to 78 of the amino acid sequence of the REIC/Dkk-3 protein as shown in SEQ ID NO: 2; or (b) a polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence derived from the amino acid sequence of amino acid 1 to any of amino acids 39 to 78 of the amino acid sequence of the REIC/Dkk-3 protein as shown in SEQ ID NO: 2 by substitution, deletion, or addition of 1 or several amino acids and having apoptosis activity.
US08618272B2 Corn event MIR162
A novel transgenic corn event designated MIR162 is disclosed. The invention relates to nucleic acids that are unique to event MIR162 and to methods for detecting the presence of the MIR162 event based on DNA sequences of the recombinant constructs inserted into the corn genome that resulted in the MIR162 event and of genomic sequences flanking the insertion site. The invention further relates to corn plants comprising the transgenic genotype of MIR162 and to methods for producing a corn plant by crossing a corn plant comprising the MIR162 genotype with itself or another corn variety. Seeds of corn plants comprising the MIR162 genotype are also objects of the present invention. The invention also relates to methods of controlling insects using MIR162 corn plants.
US08618271B2 Fagopyritol synthase genes and uses thereof
The present invention relates to an isolated DNA molecule encoding a fagopyritol synthase. A method for producing a fagopyritol, an insulin mediator, an insulin mediator analogue, an insulin mediator homologue, or an insulin mediator inhibitor is also described. The method includes providing a fagopyritol synthase, providing a substrate comprising a galactosyl donor and a galactosyl acceptor, and combining the fagopyritol synthase with the substrate under conditions effective produce a fagopyritol, an insulin mediator, an insulin mediator analogue, an insulin mediator homologue, or an insulin mediator inhibitor.
US08618270B2 Oligonucleotide analog and method for treating flavivirus infections
A method of inhibiting replication of a flavivirus in animal cells, and an oligonucleotide compound for use in the method are disclosed. The oligonucleotide analog (i) has a nuclease-resistant backbone, (ii) is capable of uptake by the cells, (iii) contains between 8-40 nucleotide bases, and (iv) has a sequence of at least 8 bases complementary to a region of the virus' positive strand RNA genome that includes at least a portion of SEQ ID NOS:1-4. Exposure of cells infected with a flavivirus to the analog is effective to form within the cells, a heteroduplex structure composed of the virus ssRNA and the oligonucleotide, characterized by a Tm of dissociation of at least 45° C., and having disrupted base pairing between the virus' 5′ and 3′ cyclization sequences.
US08618266B2 Hasylated polypeptides
The present invention relates to hydroxyalkylstarch (HAS)-polypeptide-conjugate (HAS-polypeptide) comprising one or more HAS molecules, wherein each HAS is conjugated to the polypeptide via a carbohydrate moiety or a thioether as well as to methods for the production thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the polypeptide is erythropoietin (EPO).
US08618262B2 Monoclonal antibodies against dendritic cell receptor
The invention provides isolated human DEC-205, its extracellular domain and functionally equivalent fragments thereof. Also provided are polynucleotides encoding same and vectors which include such polynucleotides. Further provided are methods of recombinantly producing human DEC-205, an extracellular domain thereof or a functionally equivalent fragment, and ligands that bind to human DEC-205 or a fragment thereof. Also provided are constructs for use in prophylaxis or therapy comprising such a ligand, human DEC-205 or an extracellular domain thereof coupled to a toxin or to an antigen capable of inducing a protective immune response in a patient.
US08618261B2 Immuno-based botulinum toxin serotype A activity assays
The present specification discloses SNAP-25 compositions, methods of making α-SNAP-25 antibodies that bind an epitope comprising a carboxyl-terminus at the P1 residue from the BoNT/A cleavage site scissile bond from a SNAP-25 cleavage product, α-SNAP-25 antibodies that bind an epitope comprising a carboxyl-terminus at the P1 residue from the BoNT/A cleavage site scissile bond from a SNAP-25 cleavage product, methods of detecting BoNT/A activity, and methods of detecting neutralizing α-BoNT/A antibodies.
US08618260B2 Tyrosine, serine and threonine phosphorylation sites
The invention discloses 155 novel phosphorylation sites identified in carcinoma and leukemia, peptides (including AQUA peptides) comprising a phosphorylation site of the invention, antibodies specifically bind to a novel phosphorylation site of the invention, and diagnostic and therapeutic uses of the above.
US08618257B2 Modified human plasma polypeptide or Fc scaffolds and their uses
Modified human plasma polypeptides or Fc and uses thereof are provided.
US08618254B2 Inhibition of AXL signaling in anti-metastatic therapy
Compositions and methods are provided for alleviating cancer in a mammal by administering a therapeutic dose of a pharmaceutical composition that inhibits activity of AXL protein activity, for example by competitive or non-competitive inhibition of the binding interaction between AXL and its ligand GAS6.
US08618253B2 Modified RNAse H and detection of nucleic acid amplification
A reversibly modified ‘hot start’ RNAse H enzyme composition is described for the improved CATACLEAVE™ probe detection of nucleic acid sequences in a test sample. A key feature of the enzyme composition is the ability to regulate the catalytic activity of the RNAse H during the course of a reverse transcription-PCR cycle. Thus, RNAse H activity can be initially suppressed to minimize degradation of RNA:DNA primer heteroduplexes prior to reverse transcription. After cDNA synthesis is complete, RNAse H activity is induced to promote the cleavage and fluorescent detection of CATACLEAVE™ probes that anneal to target DNA sequences within the reverse transcriptase-PCR products. The inducible RNAse H enzyme is amenable to high throughput applications requiring one step reverse transcriptase CATACLEAVE™ PCR in a single reaction mix.
US08618251B1 Fc mutants
The present invention provides reagents, methods and systems for predicting the inhibitory activity of an antibody or variant thereof comprising: determining a binding affinity of the antibody or variant thereof to a Fc activating receptor; determining a binding affinity of the antibody or variant thereof to a Fc inhibitory receptor, and calculating the ratio of said activating binding affinity to said inhibitory binding affinity (A/I ratio), wherein the magnitude of said ratio is less than one (1).
US08618249B2 Peptides having an ACE inhibiting effect
Use of the tripeptide ITP and salts thereof for the preparation of a functional food angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor. Also provided is the use of the combination of tripeptide MAP and the tripeptide ITP and salts thereof as an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor in functional foods.
US08618247B2 Peptide, use of the peptide, method for the production of the peptide, solid support having the peptide immobilized thereon, and method for production of the solid support
Provided is a peptide containing a variable region and improved in production efficiency.The peptide contains a variable region to which an antigen-binding site is to be formed and has an amino acid sequence expressing a specific adsorption function to a solid phase at a site closer to the C-terminal than a heavy-chain variable region or at a site closer to the C-terminal than a light-chain variable region.
US08618246B2 Manufacturing method of polyethylene terephthalate
A manufacturing method of polyethylene terephthalate including a step of melt polycondensation in presence of polycondensation catalyst represented by general Formula (I), wherein R1 represents an alkyl group having from 2 to 12 carbon atoms, and melt polycondensed polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of from 0.48 to 0.53 dL/g and a terminal carboxyl number of from 14 to 22 mmol/kg; and a step of solid phase polycondensation to obtain solid phase polycondensed polyethylene terephthalate having an intrinsic viscosity of from 0.70 to 0.86 dL/g, and a terminal carboxyl number of less than 15 mmol/kg, followed by a step of applying an aqueous solution of at least one salt selected from the group consisting of acetate, carbonate, and sulfate of sodium, potassium, or cesium to the solid phase polycondensed polyethylene terephthalate, and then drying the polyethylene terephthalate, wherein the final content of sodium, potassium or cesium atom in dried polyethylene terephthalate is from 2 to 25 ppm.
US08618245B2 Preparation of PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) from a citric residue
The present invention relates to an obtainment process of biodegradable polymers from a citric residue resulting from the processing of orange juice. The polymers obtained are polyesters classified as polyhydroxyalkanoates including, among them the poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate). The biodegradable polymer is obtained from the batch culture process or fed batch culture process with or without recirculation of the cells, using as a carbon source the pre-treated pressing liquor and/or the citric molasses. The polyhydroxyalkanoates, herein described, can be used as substitutes of the synthetic polyesters in different areas, including the food, pharmaceutical, medical, agricultural and other areas.
US08618244B2 Preparation method of polybenzoxazoles by thermal rearrangement, polybenzoxazoles prepared thereby, and gas separation membrane comprising the same
Disclosed herein are a method for preparing a benzoxazole-based polymer by thermal rearrangement, the benzoxazole-based polymer prepared by the method and a gas separation membrane comprising the polymer. More specifically, provided are a method for preparing a benzoxazole-based polymer by subjecting poly(hydroxyamide) as an intermediate to thermal treatment involving dehydration, the benzoxazole-based polymer obtained thereby and gas separation membrane comprising the polymer. The benzoxazole-based polymer of the present invention can be simply prepared by thermally rearrangement via thermal treatment at low temperatures, and thus exhibits superior mechanical and morphological properties and has well-connected microcavities. Due to showing excellent permeability and selectivity for various gases, the benzoxazole-based polymer is suited for application to gas separation membranes, in particular, gas separation membranes for small gases.
US08618241B2 Stabilized electro-optic materials and electro-optic devices made therefrom
According to an embodiment, an electro-optic polymer comprises a host polymer and a guest nonlinear optical chromophore having the structure D-π-A, wherein: D is a donor, π is a π-bridge, and A is an acceptor; a bulky substituent group is covalently attached to at least one of D, π, or A; and the bulky substituent group has at least one non-covalent interaction with part of the host polymer that impedes chromophore depoling.
US08618236B2 Polysiloxane-grafted polyimide resin composition and flexible substrate made therefrom
A polysiloxane-grafted polyimide resin composition includes a polysiloxane-grafted polyimide resin, and a solvent. The polysiloxane-grafted polyimide resin is represented by Formula (I): wherein W represents a tetravalent organic group, R represents a trivalent organic group, and X1 and X2 independently represent a polysiloxane-containing group.
US08618231B2 Acrylated epoxy-amine oligomers
A reactive component suitable for use in a radiation-curable composition, which comprises an acrylated epoxy-amine oligomer represented by the formula (I): C-B-[A-B]n-A-B-C wherein: n is from 2 to 500; each A is individually a unit derived from a diglycidyl ether; each B is individually a unit derived from a difunctional secondary amine or a monofunctional primary amine; and each C is individually a unit derived from a multifunctional acrylate monomer, radiation-curable compositions, such as inks, coatings and adhesives, comprising said reactive component and methods of making said reactive component.
US08618228B2 Process for the preparation of ethylene copolymer compositions in the presence of an oligomerization catalyst
Process for the preparation of an ethylene copolymer composition having a polydispersity index Mw/Mn of from 3 to 100, comprising a) feeding ethylene to at least one polymerization reactor; b) performing in the at least one polymerization reactor an oligomerization of ethylene in the presence of an oligomerization catalyst component (C) to produce comonomer; c) performing simultaneously in the at least one polymerization reactor polymerization reactions in the presence of catalyst components (A) and (B) producing, respectively, a first and a second polyethylene fraction, wherein the weight average molecular weight Mw of the first polyethylene fraction produced by catalyst component (A) is less than the Mw of the second polyethylene fraction produced by catalyst component (B) and the comonomer incorporation ability of catalyst component (B) is higher than the comonomer incorporation ability of catalyst component (A); and d) withdrawing the ethylene copolymer composition from the polymerization reactor.
US08618226B2 Method for quantitative analysis of styrene microblock content
A method for determining the styrene microblock content of a copolymer sample, the method comprising: (i) pyrolyzing the copolymer sample to form polymer fragments of the polymer sample; (ii) analyzing the fragments to determine the relative amounts of styrene monomer fragments, styrene dimer fragments, and styrene trimer fragments, where the relative amounts of the fragments include the amount of any given fragment relative to the total of the monomer fragments, dimer fragments, and trimer fragments; and (iii) using the relative amounts of the styrene monomer fragments, styrene dimer fragments, and styrene trimer fragments to predict the polystyrene microblock content from a mathematical model that is based upon the relative styrene monomer fragments, relative styrene dimer fragments, relative styrene trimer fragments, and microblock content of a copolymer having known microblock content.
US08618225B2 Method for producing polyamides
A process for preparing polyamides by reacting starting monomers selected from dicarboxylic acids and diamines or salts of dicarboxylic acids and diamines, amino carboxylic acids, amino nitriles, lactams and mixtures thereof, in the presence or absence of water and/or of functionalizing compounds capable of attaching to carboxyl or amino groups, which process comprises performing the reaction in an ionic liquid as solvent without use of additional accelerants.
US08618223B2 Functionalized polymers and tires therefrom
A method for preparing a functionalized polymer, the method comprising providing a reactive polymer, where the reactive polymer includes an oxygen anion, a sulfur anion, or a nitrogen anion, reacting the reactive polymer with carbon disulfide to form a polymer including a dithio carboxyl group, and reacting the polymer including the dithio carboxyl group with a blocking agent.
US08618214B2 Fiber-reinforced polypropylene/elastomer composite
Provided is a fiber-reinforced composite. The composite has a propylene polymer including 90 wt % or more of propylene monomeric units based on the weight of the propylene polymer; a plurality of fibers of a solid, flexible material grafted to the propylene polymer; and an elastomer. The fibers are present in the composite at 10 wt % to 80 wt % based on the total weight of the composite. The propylene polymer is present in the composite at from 30 wt % to 95 wt % based on the total weight of the composite. The elastomer is present in the composite at from 5 wt % to 50 wt % based on the total weight of the composite. Greater than 50 wt % of the fibers are dispersed within the propylene polymer based on the total weight of the fibers in the composite. There is also provided a process for making a fiber-reinforced composite.
US08618213B2 Liquid two-component coating compositions
The invention relates to two-component liquid coating composition comprising: A) at least one compound with functional groups reactive towards reactive functional groups of cross-linking agent B), B) at least one cross-linking agent with reactive functional groups and C) at least one catalyst compound having at least one urethane and/or at least one urea group and at least one tertiary amine group, said catalyst compound is present as particles having a melting temperature of 40 to 180° C.
US08618212B2 Functionalized matrices for dispersion of nanostructures
Matrixes doped with semiconductor nanocrystals are provided. In certain embodiments, the semiconductor nanocrystals have a size and composition such that they absorb or emit light at particular wavelengths. The nanocrystals can comprise ligands that allow for mixing with various matrix materials, including polymers, such that a minimal portion of light is scattered by the matrixes. The matrixes are optionally formed from the ligands. The matrixes of the present invention can be used as refractive index matching components, filters and antireflective coatings on optical devices and as down-converting layers. Processes for producing matrixes comprising semiconductor nanocrystals are also provided. Nanostructures having high quantum efficiency, small size, and/or a narrow size distribution are also described, as are methods of producing indium phosphide nanostructures and core-shell nanostructures with Group II-VI shells.
US08618205B2 Thermal storage medium composition and thermal storage medium
Provided is a thermal storage medium composition which contains 100 parts by mass of a hydrogenated diene copolymer and 50 to 4000 parts by mass of a linear paraffin compound having 12 to 50 carbon atoms, where the hydrogenated diene copolymer is a conjugated diene copolymer that is obtained by hydrogenating a block copolymer which includes a polymer block (A) that contains structural units (a-1) derived from a first conjugated diene compound and has a vinyl bond content of not more than 20 mol %, and a polymer block (B) that contains structural units (b-1) derived from a second conjugated diene compound and has a vinyl bond content of 30 to 95 mol %, the hydrogenation ratio with respect to the double bonds derived from the conjugated diene compounds being not less than 90%.
US08618203B2 Fluoropolymer composite composition
The present invention relates to a heat-meltable fluoropolymer composite composition having excellent thermal conductivity, gas and chemical liquid barrier properties and dynamic properties such as storage modulus which comprises a heat-meltable fluoropolymer fine powder and a layered-compound organized by treatment with tetraphenyl phosphonium ions. The present invention also relates to a heat-meltable fluoropolymer composite composition having similar properties to those mentioned above which is obtained by a process (I) in which a heat-meltable fluoropolymer composite composition is obtained by grinding and mixing a heat-meltable fluoropolymer fine powder and a layered-compound and a process (II) in which such heat-meltable fluoropolymer composite composition thus obtained is melted and mixed under shear stress by means of a melt-mixing extruder.
US08618196B2 Flame retardant resin composition and molded article thereof
The present invention is a flame retardant resin composition including: 100 parts by weight of a resin component (component A) containing at least 50 wt % of a polycarbonate (component A-1) having a unit represented by the formula (A-1), and 1 to 100 parts by weight of an organic phosphorus compound (component B) represented by the formula (1): and a molded article thereof.
US08618195B2 Solid mixture and coating based on a sulfo-aluminous or sulfo-ferroaluminous clinker and cementitious-based pipes thus coated
The present invention relates to a solid mixture and a coating or painting based on a sulfo-aluminous or sulfo-ferroaluminous clinker, the relative use as coating or painting of cementitious- and non-cementitious-based supports, in particular as coating or painting of cementitious-based pipes.
US08618192B2 Processes for producing polyester latexes via solvent-free emulsification
A process for making a latex emulsion suitable for use in a toner composition includes contacting at least one amorphous polyester resin with a viscosity reducing additive in the absence of an organic solvent to form a resin mixture either via an extruder or batch process, and adding a surfactant, neutralizing agent, and deionized water to the resin mixture.
US08618189B2 Chemical additives to make polymeric materials biodegradable
The present invention is a new additive material that is physically blended with polymeric material to create at least a partially biodegradable product.
US08618188B2 Bone cement with adapted mechanical properties
A bone cement is shown that includes a monomer, and a non-reactive substance that is fully miscible with the monomer. A resulting cured bone cement exhibits desirable properties such as modification in a stiffness of the material. Modified properties such a stiffness can be tailored to match bone properties and reduce an occurrence of fractures adjacent to a region repaired with bone cement. One example includes adjacent vertebral body fractures in vertebroplasty procedures.
US08618187B2 Composition for forming a contact lens
There is described a composition for forming an contact lens, in particular for forming a silicone hydrogel contact lens, comprising at least one first vinylic monomer or macromer having one first ethylenically unsaturated group and at least one second vinylic monomer or macromer having one second ethylenically unsaturated group, wherein the first and second ethylenically unsaturated groups are different from each other and wherein the composition further comprises a crosslinker with at least two ethylenically unsaturated (polymerizable) groups with a selected kinetic copolymerization parameter r1 of less than 1.0 relative to one of the first and second ethylenically unsaturated (polymerizable) groups as defined above.
US08618178B2 Method and substances for treating T-cell mediated autoimmune diseases
The invention relates to methods for treating T cell mediated autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis and multiple sclerosis, in a human in need thereof, wherein a therapeutically effective amount of a substance which lowers the cellular glutathione content is administered to the human.
US08618176B2 Methods and materials for the treatment of testosterone deficiency in men
The present invention relates to the use of compositions comprising trans-clomiphene for treating men with hypogonadism. The invention is also directed to methods for treating males with hypogonadism.
US08618174B2 Synergistic combinations comprising a renin inhibitor for cardiovascular diseases
The invention relates to a combination comprising the renin inhibitor of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08618172B2 Galenical formulations of organic compounds
The present invention relates to a solid oral dosage form comprising a therapeutically effective amount of aliskiren or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, a therapeutically effective amount of HCTZ and a hydrophilic filler selected from the group a carbohydrate or combinations thereof, e.g. sugars, sugar alcohols and starches or combinations of these.
US08618171B2 Encapsulated oil-in-water type emulsion composition
Encapsulated oil-in-water type emulsion compositions, which comprise an acylamino acid alkylamide or an acylglutamine alkyl ester, an oily base, a polar solvent and water, do no exhibit coalescence of the dispersed phase, and can be produced by a simple method without resort to a special apparatus, are excellent in stability with time, do not impart an uncomfortable feeling during application, are excellent in a sensory feeling that satisfies both a moisturizing feeling and an emollient feeling, and are excellent in appearance.
US08618170B2 Oral formulations of bis(thiohydrazide amides)
Disclosed herein are oral formulations of bis(thio-hydrazide amides) compounds of the following structural formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R7, R8, Z, and Y are defined herein.
US08618167B2 Methods of attenuating cognitive deficits with sulfonyl fluorides
The present invention provides for methods of treating cognitive deficits resulting from interruption of blood supply and/or oxygen deficit by administering a therapeutically effective dose of a sulfonyl fluoride, such as methanesulfonyl fluoride and ethanesulfonyl fluoride. The underlying cause of the or oxygen deficit can be from stroke, trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other poisonings. This method also includes co-administering with sulfonyl fluoride with a therapeutically effective dose of a second agent.
US08618164B2 Treatment of pain with topical diclofenac compounds
The field involves compositions useful for pain relief, including diclofenac solution and gel formulations, in particular methods of use thereof, articles of manufacture and kits that provide novel preclinical, clinical and other information to users.
US08618162B2 Insecticidal carbamates exhibiting species-selective inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE)
The present invention includes insecticidal carbamates that are useful, for example, for the control of insects, such as mosquitoes, which can be used in applications where exposure to and/or contact with humans is likely. The insecticides of the present invention include phenyl N-methyl carbamates and compositions comprising them that exhibit species-selective inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and are preferably toxic to mosquitoes but not humans. Of particular interest are compounds of Formula (I) and Formula (II): Compounds of Formula (I) and Formula (II) are especially suitable for insecticide treated nets and indoor residual spraying for mosquito control.
US08618160B2 Topical glycopyrrolate formulations
Individually packaged topical formulations comprising about 0.25 to about 6% w/w of glycopyrrolate for the treatment of hyperhidrosis, wherein said wipe is contained within a pouch resistant to leakage. The formulations may further comprise ethanol, a buffering agent and water. In addition, the formulations may further comprise a polymer system comprising a hydrophobic polymer in combination with a hydrophilic polymer.
US08618156B2 Crystalline (1r,4r)-6'-fluoro-N,N-dimethyl-4-phenyl-4',9'-dihydro-3'H-spiro[cyclohexane-1,1'-pyrano[3,4,b]indol]-4-amine
Crystalline forms of (1r,4r)-6′-fluoro-N,N-dimethyl-4-phenyl-4′,9′-dihydro-3′H-spiro[cyclohexane-1,1′-pyrano[3,4,b]indol]-4-amine, pharmaceutical compositions and medicaments comprising these crystalline modifications, the use of these modifications as well as a process for the enrichment of such crystalline modifications.
US08618150B2 Imidazo[1,2-α]pyridine sulfonamides as TRPM8 modulators
Disclosed are compounds, compositions and methods for treating various diseases, syndromes, conditions and disorders, including pain. Such compounds are represented by Formula I as follows: wherein Y, R1, R2, and are defined herein.
US08618148B2 Use of telmisartan for the prevention and treatment of vascular headache
The present invention relates to a method for the prophylaxis of vascular headaches which do not originate from hypertension, especially migraine, the method comprising administration of telmisartan to a subject in need of such a treatment. The present invention relates also to a method for the prophylaxis of vascular headaches, comprising the co-administration of telmisartan in combination with other drugs suitable for migraine prophylaxis and/or acute treatment of migraine.
US08618147B2 Modified macrophage migration inhibitory factor inhibitors
Provided are various compounds of Formula I (I). Also provided are various compounds of Formula II (II). Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the above compounds. Additionally, methods of inhibiting macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) activity in a mammal are provided, as are methods of treating or preventing inflammation in a mammal. Further provided are methods of treating a mammal having sepsis, septicemia, and/or endotoxic shock. Also provided are methods of treating a mammal having an autoimmune disease, and methods of treating a mammal having a tumor.
US08618145B2 Small molecular compounds capable of accelerating proliferation of stem cells and use thereof
The invention provides small molecule compounds capable of accelerating proliferation of stem cells and uses thereof. The compounds play an important role in the research of stem cell proliferation mechanism. The invention further relates to the uses of the compounds and relevant compounds thereof in the preparation of stem cell proliferation accelerators and the preparation of medicines accelerating stem cell proliferation. The invention also relates to the uses of the compounds in the preparation of medicines for the treatment of various diseases arising from functional cells loss or damage. The diseases arising from stem cell trauma comprise diseases related to the degeneration or damage of nervous system cells, blood system diseases, diseases related to the loss or damage of cardiovascular cells, skin burn and the like.
US08618140B2 P38 MAP kinase inhibitors
There are provided inter alia compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, Ar, L, X, R3 and Q are as defined in the specification for use in therapy, especially in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
US08618137B2 Fungicidal heterocyclic compounds
Disclosed are compounds of Formula 1, including all geometric and stereoisomers, tautomers, N-oxides, and salts thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, A, W, X, G, Z, J and n are as defined in the disclosure. Also disclosed are compositions containing the compounds of Formula 1 and methods for controlling plant disease caused by a fungal pathogen comprising applying an effective amount of a compound or a composition of the invention.
US08618136B2 Methods for the treatment of myeloproliferative diseases using 4-(amino)-2-(2,6-dioxo(3-piperidyl))-isoindoline-1,3-dione
Methods of treating, preventing and/or managing a myeloproliferative disease are disclosed. Specific methods encompass the administration of an immunomodulatory compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, hydrate, stereoisomer, clathrate, or prodrug thereof, alone or in combination with a second active agent, and/or the transplantation of blood or cells. Particular second active agents are capable of suppressing the overproduction of hematopoietic stem cells or ameliorating one or more of the symptoms of a myeloproliferative disease. Pharmaceutical compositions, single unit dosage forms, and kits suitable for use in methods of the invention are also disclosed.
US08618128B1 1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines and therapeutic uses thereof
Provided herein are compounds according to Formulas (I) or (II) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and compositions comprising the same, for use in various methods, including treating cancer, abnormal cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, Alzheimer's disease, lung disease, osteoarthritis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and neurological conditions/disorders/diseases.
US08618127B2 Methods and compositions for alleviating stuttering
Methods of treating stuttering include treating people with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor modulators, including cyclopyrrolones. A second active agent may be used with GABA receptor modulators. Active enantiomers, active metabolites, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts of gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor modulators, including cyclopyrrolones, are acceptable components of the compositions. The cyclopyrrolone class of modulators includes pagoclone, suriclone, zopiclone, 2-(7-chloro-2-naphthyridin-1,8-yl)-3-(5-methyl-2-oxohexyl)isoindolin-1-one, 2-(7-chloro-2-naphthyridin-1,8-yl)isoindolin-1-yl-4-acetamidobutyrate, and 2-(7-chloro-1,8-naphthyridin-2yl)-3-(5-methyl-5-hydroxy-2-oxohexyl)-1-isoindolinone.
US08618126B2 Antiparisitic dihydroazole compounds and compositions comprising same
The present invention relates to novel dihydroazole of formula (I) and salts thereof: Wherein R1, A1, A2, G, X and Y are as defined in the description, compositions thereof, processes for their preparation and their uses to prevent or treat parasitic infections or infestations in animals and as pesticides.
US08618125B2 Composition comprising hepatic therapeutic active for treating liver diseases, certain cancers and liver health maintenance
Compositions of hepatic therapeutic actives from one or more acridone compounds, one or more xanthone compounds, one or more thioxanthone compounds, one or more tocotrienol compounds, and one or more oleanolic triterpenoid compounds. Also, methods for treating various liver diseases or certain cancers with such hepatic therapeutic actives, as well as providing liver health maintenance.
US08618121B2 9H-pyrimido[4,5-B]indoles, 9H-pyrido[4',3':4,5]pyrrolo[2,3-D]pyridines, and 9H 1,3,6,9 tetraaza-fluorenes as CHK1 kinase function inhibitors
The present invention pertains generally to the field of therapeutic compounds, and more specifically to certain tricyclic compounds (referred to herein as TC compounds), and especially certain 9H-pyrimido[4,5-b]indole, 9H-pyrido[4′,3′:4,5]pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyridine, and 9H-1,3,6,9-tetraaza-fluorene compounds, which, inter alia, inhibit Checkpoint Kinase 1 (CHK1) kinase function. The present invention also pertains to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, and the use of such compounds and compositions, both in vitro and in vivo, to inhibit CHK1 kinase function, and in the treatment of diseases and conditions that are mediated by CHK1, that are ameliorated by the inhibition of CHK1 kinase function, etc., including proliferative conditions such as cancer, etc., optionally in combination with another agent, for example, (a) a DNA topoisomerase I or II inhibitor; (b) a DNA damaging agent; (c) an antimetabolite or TS inhibitor; (d) a microtubule targeted agent; and (e) ionising radiation.
US08618120B2 Synergistic combinations of VR-1 antagonists and COX-2 inhibitors
A synergistic combination of a vanilloid receptor VR-1 antagonist and an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate of either or both compounds thereof.
US08618118B2 Remedy for migraine headache
A medication formulation and method of use for treating migraine having a combination of active ingredients including: nicotine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and caffeine in an aqueous solution.
US08618117B2 Amino-heterocyclic compounds
The invention provides PDE9-inhibiting compounds of Formula (I), and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, A, and n are as defined herein. Pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds of Formula I, and uses thereof in treating neurodegenerative and cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia, are also provided.
US08618113B2 Treatment for demyelinating disease
The invention relates to a method of treatment or prophylaxis of demyelinating disease, in particular the neurodegenerative phase of demyelinating disease, which comprises administration of an acid sensing ion channel (ASIC) antagonist. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising an ASIC antagonist in combination with an additional therapeutic agent, in particular an anti-inflammatory or immunmodulatory agent.
US08618110B2 Compositions and methods for apoptosis modulators
The present invention includes and relates generally to compounds of structural Formula (I), or a salt, solvate, or prodrug thereof, which modulate apoptosis in cells. The present invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, methods of making these compounds, and methods of using these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions for treatment of diseases associated with irregular apoptosis in cells.
US08618106B2 Protein kinase inhibitors
In one aspect, the invention provides compounds of Formula I or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. In another aspect, the invention provides methods for treatment of diseases or disorders mediated by a protein kinase, comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of this invention.
US08618103B2 Inhibitors of JAK
The present invention relates to the use of novel compounds of Formula I, wherein the variables m, n, p, q, Q, r, R, R′, X, X′, Y, Z1, Z2, and Z3 are defined as described herein, which inhibit JAK and are useful for the treatment of auto-immune and inflammatory diseases.
US08618101B2 N-((1R,2S,5R)-5-(tert-butylamino)-2-((S)-3-(7-tert-butylpyrazolo[1,5-a][1,3,5]triazin-4-ylamino)-2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)cyclohexyl)acetamide, a dual modulator of chemokine receptor activity, crystalline forms and processes
The present invention provides a novel antagonist: N-((1R,2S,5R)-5-(tert-butylamino)-2-((S)-3-(7-tert-butylpyrazolo[1,5-a][1,3,5]triazin-4-ylamino)-2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)cyclohexyl)acetamide: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrug, thereof, having unexpected dual CCR-2 and CCR-5 receptor activity. Crystalline forms, metabolites, pharmaceutical compositions containing the same and methods of using the same as agents for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, allergic, autoimmune, metabolic, cancer and/or cardiovascular diseases are also disclosed. The present disclosure also provides processes for preparing compounds of Formula (I) as provided herein, including N-((1R,2S,5R)-5-(tert-butylamino)-2-((S)-3-(7-tert-butylpyrazolo[1,5-a][1,3,5]triazin-4-ylamino)-2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)cyclohexyl)acetamide. Compounds that are useful intermediates of the process are also provided herein.
US08618098B2 Inhibitors of bruton's tyrosine kinase
This application discloses 5-phenyl-1H-pyridin-2-one and 6-phenyl-2H-pyridazin-3-one derivatives according to generic Formulae I-IV: wherein, variables R, X, Y1, Y2, Y2′, Y3, Y4, n and m are defined as described herein, which inhibit Btk. The compounds disclosed herein are useful to modulate the activity of Btk and treat diseases associated with excessive Btk activity. The compounds are further useful to treat inflammatory and auto immune diseases associated with aberrant B-cell proliferation such as rheumatoid arthritis. Also disclosed are compositions comprising compounds of Formulae I-IV and at least one carrier, diluent or excipient.
US08618090B2 Inhibitors of the plasmodial surface anion channel as antimalarials
Disclosed are inhibitors of the plasmodial surface anion channel (PSAC) inhibitors and the use thereof in treating or preventing malaria in an animal such as a human, comprising administering an effective amount of an inhibitor or a combination of inhibitors. An example of such an inhibitor is a compound of formula I, Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1 to R7 are as described herein.
US08618088B2 Methods of inhibiting choroidal neovascularization
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for inhibiting unwanted angiogenesis, particularly those of ocular tissues. The treatment, inhibition, and/or prevention of choroidal neovasculature (CNV) is provided, along with an animal model for CNV and imaging techniques that permit the screening of potential agents as anti-angiogenesis and anti-CNV agents.
US08618087B2 Solid ganaxolone formulations and methods for the making and use thereof
In certain embodiments, the invention is directed to composition comprising stable particles comprising ganaxolone, wherein the volume weighted median diameter (D50) of the particles is from about 50 nm to about 500 nm.
US08618084B2 Aldosterone induced vascular elastin production
Compositions and methods for inducing the deposition of elastin by administering compositions including a mineralocorticoid, such as, for example, aldosterone and, optionally, a secondary active agent for enhancing or modulating the effect of the mineralocorticoid are described herein.
US08618082B2 Lupeol anti-tumor agent and uses thereof
The present invention provides methods for the prevention, treatment and/or alleviation of skin disorders and skin cancers and prevention, treatment and/or alleviation of prostate cancer and pancreatic cancer by administering a Lupeol-derived anti-tumor compound. The invention further provides pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compositions containing Lupeol-derived anti-tumor compounds.
US08618081B2 Compositions, gels and foams with rheology modulators and uses thereof
The present disclosure relates generally to compositions for cosmetic or pharmaceutical application. The compositions include a carrier and rheology modulators.
US08618074B2 GPCR enhanced neuroprotection to treat brain injury
Disclosed are methods of preventing or treating neuronal damage associated with oxidative stress and/or neuronal injury. The method comprises administering to a patient a pharmaceutical composition comprising a purinergic P2Y receptor ligand, in an amount effective to increase the extracellular concentration of said agonist in the brain of the subject such that at least a portion of cell surface P2Y receptors expressed by astrocytes are activated to mount a neuroprotective response. The pharmaceutical composition may be administered orally or parenterally. The pharmaceutical composition with typically be administered to an individual within at least one hour of the event that caused oxidative stress in the subject. The pharmaceutical composition includes a P2Y purinergic receptor agonist, which can include uridine 5′-di- and triphosphate (UDP, UTP) and their analogs, adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP) and its analogs, cytidine 5′-di- and triphosphate (CDP, CTP) and their analogs, and dinucleoside polyphosphate compounds.
US08618072B2 Composition comprising expression or activity inhibitors of ninjurin1 for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory disease
The present invention relates to a composition comprising a Ninjurin1 expression or activity inhibitor for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory disease. Ninjurin1 protein is specifically expressed in macrophages around blood vessels, increases cell-cell adhesion and cell-matrix adhesion, increases expressions of Wnt7b (Wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 7B) and Ang2 (angiopoietin-2), but reduces expression of Ang1 to induce apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells. In addition, Ninjurin1 protein is up-regulated when inflammation is induced and induces iNOS expression as well as increased NO generation. Therefore, the Ninjurin1 protein expression or activation inhibitor can be effectively used as an active ingredient of a composition for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory disease.
US08618070B2 Anti-sense oligonucleotides targeted against exon 9 of IL-23Rα gene and method of using same to induce exon skipping and to treat inflammatory bowel diseases
The present invention relates to anti-sense oligonucleotides (AONs) used to induce exon 9 skipping in IL-23Rα gene. Exon 9 skipping of the IL23Rα gene ultimately causes specific induction of a novel soluble truncated IL-23Rα (Δ9) protein, characterized by a lack in a transmembrane domain and has a unique eight (8) amino acids (GLKEGSYC) at its C-terminus end as a result of frame-shift. The present invention provides a utility application of the use of AONs to induce production of a Δ9 protein which inhibits IL-23R-mediated cell signaling. More particularly, Δ9 protein blocks STAT3 formation as well as Th17 maturation. There is provided a therapeutic application of AONs in treating a mammal such as a human patient inflicted with Crohn's disease.
US08618065B2 Cyclosporin derivatives
A cyclosporin derivative of general Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically compatible salt thereof, which have a pharmaceutical effectiveness, for example in the case of chronic inflammatory diseases. The cyclosporin derivatives are preferably free from a peptide section capable of passing through the membrane of a biological cell.
US08618063B2 Method for treating a synucleinopathy
The present invention relates to methods for restoring fast axonal transport in a cell which expresses a pathological synuclein protein and for treating a synucleinopathy using a Protein Kinase C mu or Src-Family Tyrosine Kinase inhibitor.
US08618061B2 Methods for reducing oxidative damage
The invention provides a method for reducing oxidative damage in a mammal, a removed organ, or a cell in need thereof. The method comprises administering an effective amount of an aromatic cationic peptide. The aromatic cationic peptide has (a) at least one net positive charge; (b) a minimum of three amino acids; (c) a maximum of about twenty amino acids, (d) a relationship between the minimum number of net positive charges (pm) and the total number of amino acid residues (r) wherein 3 pm is the largest number that is less than or equal to r+1; (e) a relationship between the minimum number of aromatic groups (a) and the total number of net positive charges (pt) wherein 3a or 2a is the largest number that is less than or equal to pt+1, except that when a is 1, pt may also be 1; and (f) at least one tyrosine or tryptophan amino acid.
US08618060B2 Metallothionein-derived peptide fragments
The present invention relates to neural cell survival, differentiation and proliferation promoting peptide fragments derived from metallothioneins (MT), pharmaceutical compositions comprising said peptide fragments and uses thereof for treatment of diseases and conditions where the effects of stimulating neural cell proliferation, differentiation and/or survival, and/or stimulating neural plasticity associated with learning and memory are beneficial for treatment.
US08618059B2 Methods for treating reperfusion injuries using flagellin
The present invention relates to treating a tissue in a mammal from the effects of reperfusion using flagellin.
US08618049B2 Ester insulin
Compositions and methods related to ester insulin or derivatives thereof are provided. The compositions include GluA4-ThrB30 ester insulin, in which side chains of GluA4 and ThrB30 of native human insulin or an insulin analogue such as insulin lispro are covalently linked via a single ester bond. The ester insulin is efficiently folded, forming the desired disulfides. The ThrB30-GluA4 ester bond can be cleaved in vitro or in vivo to give the desired folded insulin with full biological activity. The ester insulin is readily prepared by total chemical synthesis, and amendable to cost-effective, large scale manufacturing. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions and kits for use in practicing the subject methods. Also provided are methods of using the subject compositions and kits in the treatment of a variety of different disease conditions, particularly glucose metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.
US08618042B2 Binding molecules and methods of use thereof
Binding molecules are described.
US08618040B2 Solvent compositions containing chlorofluoroolefins or fluoroolefins
Compositions and methods based on the use of fluoroalkene containing from 3 to 4 carbon atoms and at least one carbon-carbon double bond, such as HFO-1214, HFO-HFO-1233, or HFO-1354, having properties highly beneficial in foaming and blowing agent applications, articles and methods.
US08618039B2 Granular materials for finishing denim
A granular material for use in the treating of textile materials, comprising (i) a silicone material having at least one nitrogen containing substituent, (ii) an aluminosilicate carrier and (iii) a binder, preferably in conjunction with a surface active material. Also described is a process for preparing such granular materials, which comprises forming a water-in-oil emulsion of component (i) in conjunction with component (iii) by dispersing and agitating said components in water, followed by depositing said emulsion onto a free flowing powder form of component (ii), for example by spraying, and removing sufficient water from the product to obtain a free flowing granular material. The granules are useful in a process of treating textile materials in an aqueous medium, particularly where the textile material is denim. Preferably the granular material is added into the finishing steps of denim such as the desizing, the fading or the softening steps and helps with avoiding backstaining.
US08618038B1 Compositions for removing lead from metal surfaces
The invention provides an aqueous composition that includes a hydroxy-substituted mono-, di-, or tri-carboxylic acid; phosphoric acid; a surfactant; and water. The invention further provides a method for removing lead from the surface of metal, the method includes contacting a metal surface with an aqueous composition that includes a hydroxy-substituted mono-, di-, or tri-carboxylic acid; phosphoric acid; a surfactant; and water; to provide a metal surface with a reduced amount of leachable lead. The leachable lead on the surface of the metal can be reduced to below 1 ppb by using the composition described herein.
US08618034B2 Concentrated surfactant compositions and methods of preparation thereof
An aqueous composition comprising: (a) an acyl isethionate of formula (I): wherein R1 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having from (7) to (21) carbon atoms and M+ a cation; and (b) an amphoteric, betaine or sultaine surfactant; wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is more than 3:1. R1CO2CH2CH2SO3−M+  (I)
US08618031B2 Method for improving the deposit formation resistance performance of turbine oils containing amine antioxidants
The deposit formation resistance performance of turbine oils containing amine antioxidants and antiwear additives is enhanced beyond the level of that of turbine oils containing tricresyl phosphate antiwear additive by employing as the antiwear additive a 4,4′-(Isopropylidenediphenyl)bis(diphenyl phosphate).
US08618029B2 Overbased detergents for lubricating oil applications
The present invention provides overbased detergents as lubricating oil additives effective for the lubrication of mechanical components in land and marine engines, such as, for example, hydraulic systems, transmissions, two-stroke and four-stroke vehicular engines, trunk piston and two-stroke crosshead marine engines. These overbased detergents lead to improved detergency and thermal stability performances versus high overbased sulfonates. Moreover, they are more compatible with commercial phenates than conventional sulfonates.
US08618026B2 Polymeric additives for enhancement of treatment fluids comprising viscoelastic surfactants and methods of use
A subterranean treatment additive comprising a viscoelastic surfactant and an amphiphilic polymer. Wherein the amphiphilic polymer comprises a hydrophobic component, and a hydrophilic component, the hydrophilic component itself comprising at least 15 monomer units. The subterranean treatment additive may be used as part of a treatment fluid with an aqueous base fluid that may be a brine.
US08618022B2 Process for preparing an aqueous suspension of an organic pesticide compound
The present invention relates to a process for preparing an aqueous suspension of an organic pesticide compound, which has a solubility in water of not more than 2 g/l at 20° C. and a melting point of not more than 110° C. and which is capable of forming at least one crystalline modification, wherein the organic pesticide compound is present in the form of essentially crystalline particles, which process comprises: a) providing an aqueous emulsion of the organic pesticide compound, wherein the organic pesticide compound is present in the form droplets of an amorphous form of the organic pesticide compound, and b) addition of an aqueous suspension of said organic pesticide compound, wherein the organic pesticide compound is present in the form of essentially crystalline particles, wherein the addition in step b) is performed at a temperature below the melting temperature of the crystalline form of the organic pesticide compound.
US08618020B2 Catalysts, activating agents, support media, and related methodologies useful for making catalyst systems especially when the catalyst is deposited onto the support media using physical vapor deposition
Use of physical vapor deposition methodologies to deposit nanoscale gold on activating support media makes the use of catalytically active gold dramatically easier and opens the door to significant improvements associated with developing, making, and using gold-based, catalytic systems. The present invention, therefore, relates to novel features, ingredients, and formulations of gold-based, heterogeneous catalyst systems generally comprising nanoscale gold deposited onto a nanoporous support.
US08618019B2 Method for producing platinum nanoparticles
A producing method includes a preparing step of preparing a chemical compound having at least one of elements of alkali metals and alkali earth metals along with platinum, and a reducing step of reducing the prepared chemical compound with a reducing agent to form platinum nanoparticles.
US08618018B2 Catalytically active component for thermal ionization detectors for the detection of halogen-containing compounds and process for producing an oxide-ceramic material for the component
The invention relates to catalytically active components for thermal ionization detectors for the detection of compounds containing halogen which have an improved structure as well as to a manufacturing method for an oxide ceramic sintering material for the components. It is the object of the invention to manufacture catalytically active components for thermal ionization detectors for gas chromatographic applications which are thermally, mechanically and chemically stable in the long term and which have increased sensitivity to the materials to be detected. In this respect, the sintering material should be adjustable in a controllable manner in the ideal parameter required for the detector. It is proposed in accordance with the invention to use an oxide ceramic sintering material for the components which comprises a crystalline phase and an amorphous glass phase, with it being essential to the invention that the amorphous glass phase is formed with 0.1 to 20% by weight of a cesium compound.
US08618014B2 Fast demold/extended cream time polyurethane formulations
Catalyst compositions for use in forming polyurethane products include a gelling catalyst, a trimerization catalyst, and a cure accelerator. The gelling catalyst is a tertiary amine, mono(tertiary amino) urea, bis(tertiary amino) urea, or a combination of any of these. Any known trimerization catalyst may be used. The cure accelerator may be a diol having at least one primary hydroxyl group, and having from five to 17 chain backbone atoms chosen from carbon, oxygen, or both between the hydroxyl groups, provided that at least five of the backbone atoms are carbon. Alternatively or in addition, the cure accelerator may be a polyol having three or more hydroxyl groups, at least two of which are primary, and having molecular weights between 90 g/mole and 400 g/mole. Delayed initiation of the polyurethane-forming reaction and/or reduced demold time for producing the polyurethane part can be obtained by using these catalyst compositions.
US08618012B2 Systems and methods for regenerating a spent catalyst
Systems and methods for regenerating a spent catalyst are provided. The method can include mixing a spent catalyst with a carrier fluid to provide a mixture. The spent catalyst can include carbon deposited on at least a portion thereof. The carrier fluid can include an oxygen containing gas. The mixture can be introduced to or above an upper surface of a dense phase catalyst zone disposed within a regenerator. A gas can be introduced to a lower zone of the dense phase catalyst zone. At least a portion of the carbon deposited on the catalyst can be combusted to provide a flue gas, heat, and a regenerated catalyst.
US08618011B2 Systems and methods for regenerating a spent catalyst
Systems and methods for regenerating a spent catalyst are provided. The method can include heating a hydrocarbon and a coke precursor in the presence of catalyst particles to provide a cracked hydrocarbon product and coked catalyst particles. The cracked hydrocarbon product and the coked catalyst particles can be selectively separated to provide a hydrocarbon product and coked catalyst particles. The coked catalyst particles can be mixed with a carrier fluid to provide a mixture. The mixture can be introduced to an upper surface of a dense phase catalyst zone disposed within a regenerator. A gas can be introduced to a lower zone of the dense phase catalyst zone. At least a portion of the carbon deposited on the coked catalyst particles can be combusted to provide a flue gas, heat, and a regenerated catalyst.
US08618007B2 Fused cast refractory product with a high alumina content
The invention provides a fused cast refractory product having the following mean chemical composition by weight, as a percentage by weight based on the oxides: 25%
US08618006B2 Cement-free refractory
A cement free refractory mixture contains aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, fumed silica, aluminum metal, an anti-oxidant, reactive alumina, and a carbon-bearing material. The mixture can be formed by conventional techniques to create refractory articles to contain or direct the flow of liquid metals. Refractory articles formed by the mixture do not require firing to achieve an initial cure.
US08618005B2 Glass powder and method of manufacturing the same
Provided are a glass powder represented as aLi2O-bK2O-cBaO-dB2O3-eSiO2wherein a+b+c+d+e=1, and 0.01≦a≦0.1, 0.01≦b≦0.1, 0.01≦c≦0.1, 0.05≦d≦0.3, and 0.3≦e≦0.7 are satisfied in terms of mol %, a method of manufacturing the same, and a multi-layered ceramic material using the same. Therefore, a nano glass powder having an average particle size of 100nm or less and uniform particle size distribution can be manufactured using liquid phase deposition, specifically, a sol-gel method. In addition, the glass powder can be used as sintering additives to decrease a sintering temperature by about 100° C. in comparison with conventional glass upon manufacture of a ceramic material such as MLCC and MLCI, which can be sintered at a low temperature, contributing to improvement of dielectric capacity and inductance capacity of the parts and increasing quality coefficient.
US08617999B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device and computer readable medium for storing pattern size setting program
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, which forms a pattern by performing pattern transformation steps multiple times, comprises setting finished pattern sizes for patterns to be formed in each consecutive two pattern transformation steps among the plurality of pattern transformation steps based on a possible total amount of in-plane size variation of the patterns to be formed in the consecutive two pattern transformation steps.
US08617997B2 Selective wet etching of gold-tin based solder
The present invention is directed to post-deposition, wet etch processes for patterning AuSn solder material and devices fabricated using such processes. The processes can be applied to uniform AuSn layers to generate submicron patterning of thin AuSn layers having a wide variety of features. The use of multiple etching steps that alternate between different mixes of chemicals enables the etch to proceed effectively, and the same or similar processes can be used to etch under bump metallization. The processes are simple, cost-effective, do not contaminate equipment or tools, and are compatible with standard cleanroom fabrication processes.
US08617994B2 Polishing liquid composition
A polishing liquid composition includes composite oxide particles containing cerium and zirconium, a dispersing agent, and an aqueous medium. A powder X-ray diffraction spectrum of the composite oxide particles obtained by CuKα1 ray (λ=0.154050 nm) irradiation includes a peak (first peak) having a peak top in a diffraction angle 2θ (θ is a Bragg angle) range of 28.61 to 29.67°, a peak (second peak) having a peak top in a diffraction angle 2θ range of 33.14 to 34.53°, a peak (third peak) having a peak top in a diffraction angle 2θ range of 47.57 to 49.63°, and a peak (fourth peak) having a peak top in a diffraction angle 2θ range of 56.45 to 58.91°. A half-width of the first peak is 0.8° or less.
US08617985B2 High temperature tungsten metallization process
Embodiments of the invention provide an improved process for depositing tungsten-containing materials. In one embodiment, the method for forming a tungsten-containing material on a substrate includes forming an adhesion layer containing titanium nitride on a dielectric layer disposed on a substrate, forming a tungsten nitride intermediate layer on the adhesion layer, wherein the tungsten nitride intermediate layer contains tungsten nitride and carbon. The method further includes forming a tungsten barrier layer (e.g., tungsten or tungsten-carbon material) from the tungsten nitride intermediate layer by thermal decomposition during a thermal annealing process (e.g., temperature from about 700° C. to less than 1,000° C.). Subsequently, the method includes optionally forming a nucleation layer on the tungsten barrier layer, optionally exposing the tungsten barrier layer and/or the nucleation layer to a reducing agent during soak processes, and forming a tungsten bulk layer on or over the tungsten barrier layer and/or the nucleation layer.
US08617983B2 Local interconnect having increased misalignment tolerance
A method is provided for forming an interconnect in a semiconductor memory device. The method includes forming a pair of source select transistors on a substrate. A source region is formed in the substrate between the pair of source select transistors. A first inter-layer dielectric is formed between the pair of source select transistors. A mask layer is deposited over the pair of source select transistors and the inter-layer dielectric, where the mask layer defines a local interconnect area between the pair of source select transistors having a width less than a distance between the pair of source select transistors. The semiconductor memory device is etched to remove a portion of the first inter-layer dielectric in the local interconnect area, thereby exposing the source region. A metal contact is formed in the local interconnect area.
US08617982B2 Subtractive patterning to define circuit components
Certain embodiments pertain to local interconnects formed by subtractive patterning of blanket layer of tungsten or other conductive material. The grain sizes of tungsten or other deposited metal can be grown to relatively large dimensions, which results in increased electrical conductivity due to, e.g., reduced electron scattering at grain boundaries as electrons travel from one grain to the next during conduction.
US08617981B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
The reliability of wirings, each of which includes a main conductive film containing copper as a primary component, is improved. On an insulating film including the upper surface of a wiring serving as a lower layer wiring, an insulating film formed of a silicon carbonitride film having excellent barrier properties to copper is formed; on the insulating film, an insulating film formed of a silicon carbide film having excellent adhesiveness to a low dielectric constant material film is formed; on the insulating film, an insulating film formed of a low dielectric constant material as an interlayer insulating film is formed; and thereafter a wiring as an upper layer wiring is formed.
US08617979B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device and semiconductor device
According to one embodiment, a method can include dry etching an interlayer insulating layer provided on a foundation layer by using a mask having a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings arranged more closely than the first openings to form simultaneously a first hole reaching the foundation layer under each of the first openings and a second hole reaching the foundation layer under the second openings. The first hole reaches the foundation layer without contacting any other first holes. After starting of the dry etching, a plurality of holes are formed under each of the plurality of second openings, and with the progress of the dry etching, the plurality of holes are connected with each other at least at their upper parts including their open ends to form the second hole having an opening area larger than an opening area of the first hole.
US08617975B2 Semiconductor processing methods
Some embodiments include methods of forming semiconductor constructions in which a semiconductor material sidewall is along an opening, a protective organic material is over at least one semiconductor material surface, and the semiconductor material sidewall and protective organic material are both exposed to an etch utilizing at least one fluorine-containing composition. The etch is selective for the semiconductor material relative to the organic material, and reduces sharpness of at least one projection along the semiconductor material sidewall. In some embodiments, the opening is a through wafer opening, and subsequent processing forms one or more materials within such through wafer opening to form a through wafer interconnect. In some embodiments, the opening extends to a sensor array, and the protective organic material is comprised by a microlens system over the sensor array. Subsequent processing may form a macrolens structure across the opening.
US08617972B2 Low temperature GST process
A deposition process to form a conformal phase change material film on the surface of a substrate to produce a memory device wafer comprises providing a substrate to a chamber of a deposition system; providing an activation region; introducing one or more precursors into the chamber upstream of the substrate; optionally introducing one or more co-reactants upstream of the substrate; activating the one or more precursors; heating the substrate; and depositing the phase change material film on the substrate from the one or more precursors by chemical vapor deposition. The deposited phase change material film comprises GexSbyTezAm in which A is a dopant selected from the group of N, C, In, Sn, and Se. In one implementation, the process is carried out to form GST films doped with carbon and nitrogen, to impart beneficial film growth and performance properties to the film.
US08617969B2 Method for producing semiconductor optical device
A method for producing a semiconductor optical device includes the steps of growing a semiconductor stacked layer including an etch stop layer and a plurality of semiconductor layers on a major surface of a substrate; forming a mask layer on a top surface of the semiconductor stacked layer so that a tip portion of each of protrusions that protrude from the top surface among protrusions generated in the step of growing the semiconductor stacked layer is exposed; etching the protrusion by wet etching using the mask layer; after etching the protrusion by wet etching, removing the protrusion by dry etching; and removing the mask layer from the top surface, after removing the protrusion by dry etching.
US08617968B1 Strained silicon and strained silicon germanium on insulator metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs)
A method of forming a semiconductor device that includes providing a first strained layer of a first composition semiconductor material over a dielectric layer. A first portion of the layer of the first composition semiconductor material is etched or implanted to form relaxed islands of the first composition semiconductor material. A second composition semiconductor material is epitaxially formed over the relaxed island of the first composition semiconductor material. The second composition semiconductor material is intermixed with the relaxed islands of the first composition semiconductor material to provide a second strained layer having a different strain than the first strained layer.
US08617966B2 Methods of forming a span comprising silicon dioxide
Some embodiments include methods of forming voids within semiconductor constructions. In some embodiments the voids may be utilized as microstructures for distributing coolant, for guiding electromagnetic radiation, or for separation and/or characterization of materials. Some embodiments include constructions having micro-structures therein which correspond to voids, conduits, insulative structures, semiconductor structures or conductive structures.
US08617964B2 Laser processing method
A laser processing method for preventing particles from occurring from cut sections of chips obtained by cutting a silicon wafer is provided. An irradiation condition of laser light L for forming modified regions 77 to 712 is made different from an irradiation condition of laser light L for forming the modified regions 713 to 719 such as to correct the spherical aberration of laser light L in areas where the depth from the front face 3 of a silicon wafer 11 is 335 μm to 525 μm. Therefore, even when the silicon wafer 11 and a functional device layer 16 are cut into semiconductor chips from modified regions 71 to 719 acting as a cutting start point, twist hackles do not appear remarkably in the areas where the depth is 335 μm to 525 μm, whereby particles are hard to occur.
US08617960B2 Silicon microphone transducer
A capacitive microphone transducer integrated into an integrated circuit includes a fixed plate and a membrane formed in or above an interconnect region of the integrated circuit. A process of forming an integrated circuit containing a capacitive microphone transducer includes etching access trenches through the fixed plate to a region defined for the back cavity, filling the access trenches with a sacrificial material, and removing a portion of the sacrificial material from a back side of the integrated circuit.
US08617944B2 Method of etching a pixel electrode
An etchant composition for etching a transparent electrode is provided, the etchant composition includes an inorganic acid, an ammonium (NH4+)-containing compound, a cyclic amine compound, and the remaining amount of water.
US08617943B2 Method for making a semiconductor device on a flexible substrate
A method for fabricating a flexible semiconductor device includes: preparing a layered film 80 including a first metal layer 10, an inorganic insulating layer 20, a semiconductor layer 30, and a second metal layer 40 which are sequentially formed; etching the first metal layer 10 to form a gate electrode 12g; compression bonding a resin layer 50 to a surface of the layered film 80 provided with the gate electrode 12g to allow the gate electrode 12g to be embedded in the resin layer 50; and etching the second metal layer 40 to form a source electrode 42s and a drain electrode 42d, wherein the inorganic insulating layer 20 on the gate electrode 12g functions as a gate insulating film 22, and the semiconductor layer 30 between the source electrode 42s and drain electrode 42d on the inorganic insulating layer 20 functions as a channel 32.
US08617940B2 SOI device with a buried insulating material having increased etch resistivity
In SOI devices, the PN junction of circuit elements, such as substrate diodes, is formed in the substrate material on the basis of the buried insulating material that provides increased etch resistivity during wet chemical cleaning and etch processes. Consequently, undue exposure of the PN junction formed in the vicinity of the sidewalls of the buried insulating material may be avoided, which may cause reliability concerns in conventional SOI devices comprising a silicon dioxide material as the buried insulating layer.
US08617935B2 Back side alignment structure and manufacturing method for three-dimensional semiconductor device packages
A mechanism for accurate alignment of semiconductor package back side interconnect processing is provided. As semiconductor die are placed in position for an encapsulated panel, two or more alignment die having fiducial markings formed on the back, or non-active, side of those die are also placed in the panel. Once all the die and other components have been placed for the panel, the panel is encapsulated using an encapsulant. Excess encapsulant, if any, is removed by a process such as backgrinding. The back grinding process exposes the back side of the alignment die and the fiducial features on those alignment die. The fiducial features on the alignment die can then be used for alignment of backside processing operations on the panel.
US08617933B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with interlock and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: forming a lead having a lead overhang at an obtuse angle to a lead top side and having a lead ridge protruding from a lead non-horizontal side, the lead overhang having a lead overhang-undercut side at an acute angle to a lead overhang non-horizontal side; forming a lead conductive cap completely covering the lead overhang non-horizontal side and the lead top side; forming a package paddle adjacent the lead; mounting an integrated circuit over the package paddle; and forming an encapsulation over the integrated circuit, the package paddle, and the lead.
US08617932B2 Display device, organic light emitting diode display, and manufacturing method of sealing substrate
A display device includes a display unit, a sealing substrate, a first metal layer, a second metal layer, and a conductive wire member. The display unit is formed over a substrate. A sealing substrate is secured to the substrate by a bonding layer, and comprising a composite member and an insulating member. A first metal layer is formed over the inner surface of the sealing substrate facing the substrate, and a second metal layer is formed over the outer surface of the sealing substrate. A conductive wire member successively passes through at least two points of each of the first metal layer, the insulating member, and the second metal layer, and is secured to the sealing substrate to provide conduction of the first metal layer and the second metal layer.
US08617930B2 Adhesive sheet, dicing tape integrated type adhesive sheet, and method of producing semiconductor device
The invention provides an adhesive sheet which can be stuck to a wafer at low temperatures of 100° C. or below, which is soft to the extent that it can be handled at room temperature, and which can be cut simultaneously with a wafer under usual cutting conditions; a dicing tape integrated type adhesive sheet formed by lamination of the adhesive sheet and a dicing tape; and a method of producing a semiconductor device using them. In order to achieve this object, the invention is characterized by specifying the breaking strength, breaking elongation, and elastic modulus of the adhesive sheet in particular numerical ranges.
US08617924B2 Stacked integrated circuit package-in-package system and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of a stacked integrated circuit package-in-package system includes forming a substrate with a top contact, mounting a first device having a first terminal over the substrate, stacking a second device having a second terminal over the first device in an offset configuration, connecting the first terminal to the top contact below the first terminal, and connecting the second terminal to the top contact below the second terminal.
US08617920B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
It is an object to provide a semiconductor device having excellent electric characteristics or high reliability, or a manufacturing method thereof. A semiconductor device including a gate electrode, an oxide semiconductor layer overlapping with the gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode in contact with the oxide semiconductor layer, and a gate insulating layer provided between the gate electrode and the oxide semiconductor layer is provided. The oxide semiconductor layer is formed by a facing target sputtering method. The carrier concentration of the oxide semiconductor is less than 1×1012/cm3.
US08617915B2 Annealing thin films
In an annealing process, a Kesterite film is provided on a substrate. The Kesterite film and the substrate are generally planar, have an interface, and have a substrate exterior side and a Kesterite exterior side. An additional step includes locating the cap adjacent the Kesterite exterior side. A further step includes applying sufficient heat to the Kesterite film and the substrate for a sufficient time to anneal the Kesterite film. The annealing is carried out with the cap adjacent the Kesterite exterior side. In another aspect, the film is not limited to Kesterite, and the cap is employed without any precursor layer thereon. Solar cell manufacturing techniques employing the annealing techniques are also disclosed.
US08617914B2 Method of forming semiconductor device having seal ring structure
A method of producing a semiconductor device includes forming, on a first insulating film formed on a substrate, a first groove in an element-forming region to form one of a via and a wiring therein, and a first seal ring groove in a seal ring part, forming one of a via and a wiring in the first groove and a first metal layer in the first seal ring groove, and then removing the metal material in a part exposed to an outside of the first groove and the first seal ring groove, forming a second insulating film on the first insulating film, forming, on the second insulating film, a second groove, and a second seal ring groove in the seal ring part on the first seal ring groove, and forming one of a via and a wiring in the second groove and a second metal layer.
US08617911B2 Method for forming coating film on facet of semiconductor optical device
The method includes the steps of preparing an epitaxial wafer by forming a multilayer semiconductor structure on a main surface of a substrate; forming stripe electrodes and bonding pads on the multilayer semiconductor structure with the bonding pads being respectively electrically connected to the stripe electrodes; forming a projection portion on the multilayer semiconductor structure; forming laser diode (LD) bars by cutting the epitaxial wafer; arranging the LD bars on a support surface such that a side surface thereof is oriented normal to the support surface, and disposing spacers between the LD bars; and forming a coating film on the side surface. The projection portion has a height, measured from the main surface of the substrate, greater than a height of the stripe electrodes. Furthermore, the laser diode bar has at least one projection portion.
US08617909B2 LED with substrate modifications for enhanced light extraction and method of making same
The surface morphology of an LED light emitting surface is changed by applying a reactive ion etch (RIE) process to the light emitting surface. Etched features, such as truncated pyramids, may be formed on the emitting surface, prior to the RIE process, by cutting into the surface using a saw blade or a masked etching technique. Sidewall cuts may also be made in the emitting surface prior to the RIE process. A light absorbing damaged layer of material associated with saw cutting is removed by the RIE process. The surface morphology created by the RIE process may be emulated using different, various combinations of non-RIE processes such as grit sanding and deposition of a roughened layer of material or particles followed by dry etching.
US08617906B2 Identification and screening of triptolide target molecules
The identification of triptolide target molecules is described. Also described are methods of screening triptolide-related compounds for binding to these molecules, including screening for enhanced and/or selective binding, and expression analysis of the target molecules in normal and in diseased tissue.
US08617905B2 Thermal microvalves
The movement and mixing of microdroplets through microchannels is described employing silicon-based microscale devices, comprising microdroplet transport channels, reaction regions, electrophoresis modules, and radiation detectors. The discrete droplets are differentially heated and propelled through etched channels. Electronic components are fabricated on the same substrate material, allowing sensors and controlling circuitry to be incorporated in the same device.
US08617904B2 Sperm cell processing methods
A method of processing animal sperm cells that includes: collecting sperm cells from a male animal; sorting the sperm cells to obtain a quantity of sperm cells having a desired characteristic, the quantity of sorted sperm cells being contained in a first volume of fluid having a first concentration of sperm cells; and subjecting the sperm cells to concentration steps in which the concentration of the sperm cells is increased to a second concentration greater than the first concentration.
US08617903B2 Methods for allergen detection
The present disclosure relates to methods that may be used for the detection of allergens.
US08617901B2 Method of multiple spiking isotope dilution mass spectrometry
A comprehensive approach for interpretation of the multiple spiking isotope dilution results is described herein. It has now been found that a method of multiple spiking isotope dilution analysis for mass spectrometry is possible using an approach that permits precise and simultaneous characterization of m substances from a sample even if species inter-conversion (degradation and formation) has occurred prior to separation. Advantageously, initial and final amounts of involved analytes, conversion extent, conversion degree and rate constants from the results of a single quantitation experiment may be obtained with the present method. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, uncertainty in the characterization of the substances may be estimated more accurately by also estimating increase in the uncertainty due to inter-conversion of the analytes.
US08617900B2 Co-topo-polymeric compositions, devices and systems for controlling threshold and delay activation sensitivities
Co-topo-polymeric indicator compositions and methods for making and using the same are provided. Indicator compositions of the invention include a polymer and undergo a color change, which may be reversible or irreversible, in response to an applied stimulus, e.g., temperature. Aspects of methods of producing the compositions include setting a fluid co-topo-polymeric precursor composition into a solid product and then subjecting the solid product (either immediately or after a delay period) to polymerizing conditions to produce the desired indicator composition. Also provided are indicator devices that include the indicator compositions of the invention. The compositions of the invention find use in a variety of different applications.
US08617898B2 Quantitative analysis of vitamin D3, vitamin D2, and metabolites thereof
Quantification of vitamin D2, vitamin D3, and the monohydroxy and diihydroxy metabolites of vitamin D2 and vitamin D3, can comprise labeling analytes with mass spectrometry (MS) tagging reagents and performing LC-MSMS analysis of the labeled analytes. The labeled analytes can include a labeled standard and can have distinct retention times on a reversed phase column, as well as distinct masses. Under high energy collisions, reporter groups can be generated. The intensity or the peak area detected for each reporter group can be used for quantitation. In some embodiments, a one-step tagging reagent is used that is a dienophile-containing, labeled Diels Alder reagent.
US08617897B2 Method of detecting oxides of nitrogen
Methods and kits to detect and quantitate NOx compounds in a biological sample are provided. The methods include reacting a mixture that includes a nitrite compound and a chromogenic reagent to form a colored compound, contacting the mixture with a retention medium configured to retain the colored compound, and detecting the colored compound retained on the retention medium.
US08617895B2 Polycationic quaternary ammonium polymer coatings for immobilizing biological samples
The present invention is directed to a pre-coated substrate, such as a slide, that is useful for immobilizing a sample. The invention is further provides methods of preparing such pre-coated substrates and methods of analyzing biological samples immobilized on such pre-coated substrate. The substrate is coated with a polycationic polymeric coating material specifically selected such that that coated substrate exhibits increased stability and prolonged shelf-life. Preferred polymeric coating materials include allylic or vinylic polymers having cationic groups thereon and having no more than a small percentage of peptidic monomeric linkages, particularly polydiallyldimethylammonium (PDDA).
US08617891B2 Systems and methods for contaminant removal from a microalgae culture
Systems and methods for the removal of contaminants from a liquid culture microalgae and/or cyanobacteria comprise an inlet tube, a pump, a gas injector, a vertical chamber, and/or a collection container that promotes the production of foam in the microalgae culture, wherein the foam contains the contaminants.
US08617890B2 Method of isolating dermal stem cells
The invention provides a method of isolating dermal stem cells, having the steps of subjecting cells separated from the skin by enzyme treatment to suspension culture, and isolating cells positive for stem cell markers from the cultured cells.
US08617886B2 Compositions and methods for modulating metabolic pathways
Compositions and methods useful for inducing an increase in fatty acid oxidation or mitochondrial biogenesis, reducing weight gain, inducing weight loss, or increasing Sirt1, Sirt3, or AMPK activity are provided herein. Such compositions can contain synergizing amounts of a sirtuin-pathway activators, including but not limited to resveratrol, in combination with beta-hydroxymethylbutyrate (HMB), keto isocaproic acid (KIC), leucine, or combinations of HMB, KIC and leucine.
US08617884B2 Methods for eliminating at least a substantial portion of a clonal antigen-specific memory T cell subpopulation
The present invention relates generally to methods for stimulating T cells, and more particularly, to methods to eliminate undesired (e.g., autoreactive, alloreactive, pathogenic) subpopulations of T cells from a mixed population of T cells, thereby restoring the normal immune repertoire of said T cells. The present invention also relates to compositions of cells, including stimulated T cells having restored immune repertoire and uses thereof.
US08617881B2 Methods for producing recombinant proteins
Methods for producing recombinant cell populations are disclosed. The disclosed methods may be used to produce therapeutic polyclonal proteins.
US08617877B2 Cardiac stem cell and myocyte secreted paracrine factors
The invention relates to secreted proteins from cardiac stem cells (cardiospheres and cardiosphere-derived cells) or myocytes for diagnostic and/or therapeutic use.
US08617873B2 Intelligent medical device system for personalized medicine applications
The system presents applications of personalized medicine with intelligent medical devices (iMDs) and customizes therapies to complex problems involving neurological, cardiovascular, cancer, immunological and endocrinological diseases.
US08617870B2 Antioxidant producing bacterium and uses thereof
Bacterial strains are provided that can be isolated from the microflora of lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium), and that are capable of increasing the antioxidant content of their growth medium. The bacteria can be used, for example, to increase the antioxidant content of various foodstuffs, as probiotics or as additives to animal feed. Antioxidant-enriched compositions produced by fermentation processes utilizing the bacteria are also provided. The antioxidant-enriched compositions can be used in the preparation of cosmetics and nutritional supplements. The antioxidant-enriched compositions also have therapeutic applications.
US08617867B2 Methods of and compositions for inhibiting the proliferation of mammalian cells
A method of preventing, inhibiting and/or reversing cell motility, actin filament assembly or disassembly, proliferation, colonization, differentiation, accumulation and/or development of abnormal cells in a subject is disclosed. The method is effected by administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a ribonuclease of the T2 family having actin binding activity.
US08617864B2 Polynucleotides encoding ketoreductases for producing stereoisomerically pure statins and synthetic intermediates therefor
The present disclosure provides ketoreductase enzymes having improved properties as compared to a naturally occurring wild-type ketoreductase enzyme. Also provided are polynucleotides encoding the engineered ketoreductase enzymes, host cells capable of expressing the engineered ketoreductase enzymes, method of using the engineered ketoreductase enzymes to synthesize a variety of chirally pure compounds, and the chirally pure compounds prepared therewith.
US08617863B2 Composition, method, and kit for preparing plasmin
A streptokinase immobilized on a surface, in particular an immobilized plasmin-resistant streptokinase, and compositions, methods and kits of utilizing same for preparing plasmin are provided.
US08617862B2 Microorganisms for producing propylene and methods related thereto
The invention provides non-naturally occurring microbial organisms having a propylene pathway. The invention additionally provides methods of using such organisms to produce propylene.
US08617857B2 Thraustochytrid-based microalgae, and method for preparing bio-oil by using same
The present invention relates to novel thraustochytrid-like microalgae having the ability to produce bio-oil, and a method of producing bio-oil using the same. The microalgae of the invention accumulate bio-oil at a high ratio in the cells when being cultured in glucose-containing medium, and thus can produce bio-oil in a high yield. Also, the microalgae can produce bio-oil using bean powder as a nitrogen source, and a product obtained by culturing edible bean powder as medium can be used as a raw material for producing food and feed. Also, the microalgae can produce bio-oil using non-food cellulosic biomass as a carbon source. Moreover, the use of non-food cellulosic biomass for production of bio-oil can overcome the factors limiting the development of bio-oil, including the unstable supply of food resources and an increase in the cost of raw materials, and can improve the commercial competitiveness of microbial fermentation oil.
US08617856B2 Fatty acid-producing hosts
Described are hosts for overproducing a fatty acid product such as a fatty acid. The hosts include an exogenous nucleic acid encoding a thioesterase and, optionally, an exogenous nucleic acid encoding an acetyl-CoA carboxylase, wherein an acyl-CoA synthetase in the hosts are functionally deleted. The hosts preferably include the nucleic acid encoding the thioesterase at an intermediate copy number. The hosts are preferably recombinantly stable and growth-competent at 37° C. Methods of producing a fatty acid product comprising culturing such hosts at 37° C. are also described.
US08617854B2 Method for producing L-phenylephrine using an alcohol dehydrogenase of Aromatoleum aromaticum EBN1 (Azoarcus sp. EBN1)
The present invention relates to a multi-stage process for producing substituted, optically active alcohols, comprising an enzyme-catalyzed synthesis step, in particular a synthesis step which is catalyzed by an alcohol dehydrogenase. The inventive method is particularly suitable for producing phenylephrine, i.e. 3-[(1R)-1-hydroxy-2-methylamino-ethyl]-phenol.
US08617853B2 Ketoreductase polypeptides for the production of (S,E)-methyl 2-(3-(3-(2-(7-chloroquinolin-2-yl)vinyl)phenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl)benzoate
The present disclosure provides engineered ketoreductase enzymes having improved properties as compared to a naturally occurring wild-type ketoreductase enzyme. Also provided are polynucleotides encoding the engineered ketoreductase enzymes, host cells capable of expressing the engineered ketoreductase enzymes, and methods of using the engineered ketoreductase enzymes to synthesize a variety of chiral compounds.
US08617852B2 Method for producing a target substance by fermentation
A method is described for producing a target substance utilizing a microorganism by culturing the microorganism in a medium to produce and accumulate the target substance in the medium, and then collecting the target substance from culture. The microorganism is imparted with isomaltase activity, or modified to increase isomaltase activity.
US08617850B2 Oligonucleotides for detecting chicken astrovirus
There is provided an oligonucleotide sequence capable of binding to a portion of a CAstV genome, wherein the oligonucleotide sequence has binding specificity to the precapsid region of CAstV or to cDNA of the precapsid region. The oligonucleotide sequence can be one of a primer pair for use in a method for detecting the presence of CAstV in a biological sample by reverse transcription followed by amplification of the reverse transcription products using such primer pair, or a method for amplifying CAstV cDNA using such primer pair.
US08617846B2 Tumor-specific recognition molecules
The invention relates to recognition molecules which are directed towards tumors and can be used in the diagnosis and therapy of tumor diseases.
US08617842B2 Enzymes for use in enzymatic bleaching of food products
The present invention relates to novel polypeptides according to caroase 01-05 or any functional equivalents of any of them, suitable for use in a method for preparing a food products having increased whiteness, the use of the enzyme to increase whiteness of at least part of a food product, a process for preparing a food product wherein the enzyme is used and the food product obtained.
US08617834B2 Thromboplastin reagent with long-term stability
The present invention is in the area of coagulation analysis and relates to a reagent which is based on recombinant or native tissue factor and phospholipids and which can be stabilized by adding a polyphenol.
US08617833B2 Estrogen receptors and methods of use
The present invention provides isolated polypeptides having an amino acid sequence having at least 70% identity to SEQ ID NO:20, wherein the polypeptide has ER-α36 activity. The invention further provides methods for identifying agents that bind to such polypeptides, methods for detecting such polypeptides, and methods for altering the activity of such polypeptides. Also provided are antibodies that specifically bind to an amino acid sequence depicted at SEQ ID NO:1, or an immunogenic fragment thereof, and methods for making and using such antibodies.
US08617831B2 Methods for diagnosing and monitoring the progression of cancer by measuring soluble c-Met ectodomain
Methods for measuring c-Met levels in urine and blood samples are provided. Methods for diagnosis and prognosis evaluation for cancer are also provided.
US08617826B2 TSH immunoassays employing scavenging reagents for cross-reacting endocrine glycoprotein hormone analogues
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) immunoassays are performed using an ELISA sandwich assay that employs scavenging or sacrificial beads for reducing interference caused by cross-reacting endocrine glycoprotein hormone analogues such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Chorionic Gonadotropin (CG).
US08617824B2 Analyte detection assay
A rapid and sensitive analyte detection assay is based on whispering gallery modes of fluorescently labelled microspheroidal particles. Ligands for the analyte, such as nucleic acids, are anchored to the particles. The fluorescent labels may comprise fluorophores or quantum dots. In the latter case, the particles may comprise melamine formaldehyde. The assay may be used to detect analytes in aqueous samples.
US08617821B2 Assay method for peptide specific T-cells
A method of assaying for peptide-specific T-cells comprises adding peptide to a fluid sample of fresh peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and detecting a cytokine such as interferon-γ produced by T-cells that have been pre-sensitized to the peptide. The assay method is quick and cheap and is expected to be useful for the study of various disease states including Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, tuberculosis, malaria, HIV and influenza.
US08617819B2 Polymers for analyte detection
The present invention generally relates to organic polymers able to participate in an analyte-recognition process, where an analyte facilitates an energy transfer between an energy donor and an energy acceptor. Certain embodiments of the invention make use of fluorescent conjugated polymers, such as poly(phenylene ethynylene)s and other polymers comprising pi-conjugated backbones. For example, one aspect of the invention provides a fluorescent conjugated polymer and an indicator that can interact with each other in the presence of an analyte to produce an emissive signal. In some cases, the interaction may include energy exchange mechanisms, such as Dexter energy transfer or the strong coupling effect. The interaction of the conjugated polymer and the indicator, in some instances, may be facilitated through specific interactions, such as a protein/carbohydrate interaction, a ligand/receptor interaction, etc. Another aspect of the invention provides for the detection of biological entities, for example, pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli, or viruses such as influenza virus. In some cases, biological recognition elements may be used to determine the biological entity, for instance, carbohydrates that can be used to specifically interact with at least part of the biological entity, such as a protein in the cell membrane of a bacterium. Still other aspects of the invention involve articles, devices, and kits using any of the above-described systems.
US08617814B2 Methods and compositions for detection and analysis of polynucleotides using light harvesting multichromophores
Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide are provided. A sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide is contacted with a polycationic multichromophore and a sensor polynucleotide complementary to the target polynucleotide. The sensor polynucleotide comprises a signaling chromophore to receive energy from the excited multichromophore and increase emission in the presence of the target polynucleotide. The methods can be used in multiplex form. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
US08617812B2 Polymorphism in bovine prion protein gene sequence
A specific, non-synonymous SNP in the Prnp gene encoding the bovine prion protein affects the susceptibility of bovine animals to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). Depending on the number of octapeptide repeat units present in the Prnp gene, the position of the SNP is either nucleotide 631 of exon 3 (codon 211) when the Prnp gene comprises six octapeptide repeat region sequences, nucleotide 607 of exon 3 (codon 203) when the Prnp gene comprises five octapeptide repeat region sequences, or nucleotide 655 of exon 3 (codon 219) when the Prnp gene comprises seven octapeptide repeat region sequences. Alleles of the bovine Prnp wherein the SNP at these positions is lysine (K) at the corresponding amino acids (i.e., 211, 203 or 219) in the bovine prion protein are all indicative of increased susceptibility to BSE in comparison to alleles which encode glutamic acid (E) at the same position. This SNP may be used as a marker for selecting bovines susceptible to BSE for disposal and/or removal from breeding, the human food and animal feed supplies.
US08617810B2 Screening method for compounds that promote differentiation of inner ear progenitor cells
This invention relates generally to methods and compositions for inducing stem cell or progenitor cell differentiation, and more particularly to methods and compositions for inducing differentiation of stem cells and/or progenitor cells into cells that function within the inner ear.
US08617807B2 Nucleic acid binding proteins
The invention provides a method for designing a nucleic acid binding protein of the Cys2-His2 zinc finger class capable of binding to a nucleic acid quadruplet in a target nucleic acid sequence, wherein binding to base 4 of the quadruplet by an alpha-helical zinc finger nucleic acid binding motif in the protein is determined as follows: if base 4 in the quadruplet is A, then position +6 in the alpha-helix is Glu, Asn or Val; if base 4 in the quadruplet is C, then position +6 in the alpha-helix is Ser, Thr, Val, Ala, Glu or Asn; if base 4 of the quadruplet is G, the position +6 in the alpha helix is Arg or Lys; if position 4 in the quadruplet is T, then position +6 in the alpha helix is Ser, Thr, Val or Lys.
US08617805B2 Compositions, methods and kits for detection of an antigen on a cell and in a biological mixture
The present invention relates to novel methods for detecting at least one member of a known binding pair in a sample, including a cell, where one member of the pair (termed the “receptor”) is expressed by a bacteriophage, which phage is then used to detect the presence of the other member of the pair (termed the “ligand” or “target”). Rather than detecting the binding of at least one phage using antibody-based technology, the present invention relates to detecting the nucleic acid associated with the phages. In one aspect, the invention relates to identifying at least one antigen-bearing moiety (e.g., a red blood cell antigen) of interest present on a cell, e.g., a red blood cell, using antibody-displaying bacteriophages, using antiglobulin reagent-displaying bacteriophages and detecting at least one nucleic acid associated with the phage.
US08617804B2 Method of detecting leukemic cell
[Problems] To provide a marker which is useful in diagnosing leukemia and a method of using the same.[Means for Solving Problems] A method of detecting a leukemia cell which comprises detecting a CD34-positive cell being negative in DOCK180 expression from a blood specimen. According to this method, a DOCK180 expression pattern specific to a tumor cell in leukemia, in particular, acute leukemia is confirmed so that information which is useful in diagnosing leukemia and monitoring and determining the severity and degree of recovery of the same by a doctor can be obtained by a convenient procedure using blood specimens and thus provided.
US08617803B2 Non-specific adsorption inhibitor, probe-bonded particles, and method for producing the same
A method for producing a non-specific adsorption inhibitor includes reacting (A) a tosylated compound of polyoxyethylene monomethyl ether with (B) a polyamine having either an amino group or imino group (—NH—), or both, in total of 3 to 12.
US08617800B2 Patterning process
There is disclosed a patterning process including steps of at least: forming a photoresist film on a substrate; exposing the photoresist film to a high energy beam; developing by using a developer; forming a photoresist pattern; and then forming a spacer on the photoresist pattern sidewall, thereby forming a pattern on the substrate, a patterning process, wherein at least the photoresist pattern having the hardness of 0.4 GPa or more or the Young's modulus of 9.2 GPa or more as a film strength is formed, and a pattern is formed on the substrate by forming a silicon oxide film as the spacer on the photoresist pattern sidewall. There can be provided a patterning process without causing a deformation of a resist pattern and an increase in LWR at the time of forming a silicon oxide film on a photoresist pattern.
US08617797B2 Pattern forming method, semiconductor device manufacturing method and phase shift photomask having dummy gate patterns
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device that includes a plurality of gate patterns in parallel with each other within one circuit block provided over a semiconductor substrate includes preparing a first photomask, performing a first photolithography process upon a photoresist layer within a circuit block by using the first photomask, preparing a second photomask that includes a trim photomask having at least one trim opening corresponding to a dummy gate pattern to remove a portion of the photoresist layer corresponding to the dummy gate pattern, and performing a second photolithography process upon the photoresist layer by using the second photomask.
US08617785B2 Actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition and pattern forming method using the same
An actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition includes: (A) a compound capable of generating an acid upon irradiation with an actinic ray or radiation; (B) a resin capable of increasing a dissolution rate of the resin (B) in an alkali developer by an action of an acid, the resin (B) containing a specific repeating unit having a lactone structure; and (D) a low molecular compound having a group capable of leaving by an action of an acid, and a pattern forming method uses the composition.
US08617781B2 Carrier core particles for electrophotographic developer, method for manufacturing the same, carrier for electrophotographic developer and electrophotographic developer
The carrier core particles 11 for electrophotographic developer contain lithium as a core composition. When the carrier core particles 11 are immersed in pure water at a weight ratio of 1 part core particles 11 to 10 parts pure water and shaken, the amount of lithium that leaches out to the pure water is 0.10 ppm or lower.
US08617780B2 Toner having titania and processes thereof
The present disclosure provides white toner compositions and processes for making same. In embodiments, a desirable white toner may be produced without having to resort to excessive pigment loading, having desirable gloss characteristics.
US08617773B2 Method of correcting mask pattern, computer program product, and method of manufacturing semiconductor device
In the method of correcting a mask pattern according to the embodiments, a mask pattern correction amount for a reference flare value is calculated as a reference mask correction amount, for every type of patterns within the layout, and a change amount of the mask pattern correction amount corresponding to the change amount of the flare value is calculated as the change amount information. A mask pattern corresponding to the flare value of the pattern is created based on the reference mask correction amount and the change amount information corresponding to the pattern, extracted from the information having the pattern, the reference mask correction amount, and the change amount information correlated with each other, and based on a difference between the flare value of the pattern and the reference flare value.
US08617772B2 Hologram recording material and hologram recording medium
The present invention provides a hologram recording material and a hologram recording medium, which are suitable for volume hologram record and can attain high refractive index change, flexibility, high sensitivity, low scattering, environment resistance, that is, storage stability, durability, low dimensional change (low shrinkage) and high multiplicity in holographic memory recording using not only a green laser but also a blue laser. A hologram recording material comprising: a radical photopolymerizable compound; and a matrix which is a dispersion medium for the radical photopolymerizable compound, wherein the radical photopolymerizable compound comprises a (meth)acrylamide derivative represented by the following general formula (I): CH2═CR1—CONR2—CH2—O—R3 (I) wherein R1 represents H or a CH3 group, R2 represents H or an organic group, and R3 represents an organic group having 3 or more carbon atoms in total. A hologram recording medium 11 which has a hologram recording layer 21.
US08617771B2 Membrane electrode assembly, manufacturing method thereof and fuel cell
A manufacturing method of MEA of the present invention includes coating a catalyst ink for first electrode catalyst layer containing an electron conducting material loading a catalyst, a polymer electrolyte, and a solvent on a substrate to form a coated layer; removing the solvent in the coated layer to form at least two types of first electrode catalyst layers having different polymer electrolyte content ratios; coating an electrolyte ink containing the polymer electrolyte and the solvent on the first electrode catalyst layer to form a coated layer; removing the solvent in the coated layer to form a polymer electrolyte layer; coating a catalyst ink for second electrode catalyst layer containing the electron conducting material loading the catalyst, the polymer electrolyte, and the solvent on the polymer electrolyte layer to form a coated layer; and removing the solvent in the coated layer to form a second electrode catalyst layer.
US08617769B2 Coating body
Powders of respective metal elements (Mn, Co) constituting a transition metal oxide (MnCo2O4) having a spinel type crystal structure are used as a starting material of the coating film. A film of a paste containing the mixture of the powders is formed on the surface of the interconnector, and with this state, the paste is sintered to form the coating film. In the coating body, a chromia layer including Cr2O3, a first layer including elements of Mn, Co, Fe, Cr, and O, and a second layer including elements of Mn, Co, Fe, and O are provided in this order from the side close to the interconnector at the boundary between the coating film and the interconnector. With this structure, the coating film is difficult to be peeled even if the coating body is placed in a severe temperature change.
US08617768B2 Carbon catalyst for direct fuel cell cathode, and direct fuel cell cathode and direct fuel cell using same
Provided is a carbon catalyst for a cathode of a direct fuel cell, which selectively promotes an oxygen reduction reaction even when crossover of a fuel compound occurs. The carbon catalyst for a cathode of a direct fuel cell exhibits an oxygen-reducing catalytic activity in an electrolytic solution containing a fuel compound for the direct fuel cell, and exhibits substantially no catalytic activity to oxidize the fuel compound in the electrolytic solution.
US08617763B2 Internal reforming anode for solid oxide fuel cells
A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) includes a cathode electrode, a solid oxide electrolyte, and an anode electrode having a first portion and a second portion, such that the first portion is located between the electrolyte and the second portion. The anode electrode comprises a cermet comprising a nickel containing phase and a ceramic phase. The first portion of the anode electrode contains a lower porosity and a lower ratio of the nickel containing phase to the ceramic phase than the second portion of the anode electrode. The nickel containing phase in the second portion of the anode electrode comprises nickel and at least one other metal which has a lower electrocatalytic activity than nickel.
US08617762B2 Method of processing a ceramic electrolyte, and related articles
A method of processing a ceramic electrolyte suitable for use in a fuel cell is provided. The method comprises situating a ceramic electrolyte layer over an anode layer; and subjecting the ceramic electrolyte layer to a stress prior to operation of the fuel cell, by: exposing the top surface of the electrolyte layer to an oxidizing atmosphere and the bottom surface of the electrolyte layer to a reducing atmosphere; and heating the electrolyte layer. The stress causes a substantial increase in the number of microcracks, or in the average size of the microcracks, or in both the number of the microcracks and their average size. A solid oxide fuel cell comprising a ceramic electrolyte layer processed by the disclosed method is also provided.
US08617761B2 Fuel cell having current-collectable manifold
A fuel cell includes a cell unit and a manifold capable of collecting electric current. The cell unit includes a tube support composed of a conductive material, a unit cell laminated on an outer surface of the tube support, and a current collection layer laminated on an outer surface of the unit cell. The manifold includes an inner tube supplying gas into and electrically connected with the tube support, and an outer tube provided outside the inner tube and electrically connected with the current collection layer. By the provision of a current-collectable manifold, a separate metal form or metal wire for current collection is not required.
US08617756B2 Fuel cell stack
A coolant supply manifold and a coolant discharge manifold are provided on a first end plate of a fuel cell stack. The coolant supply manifold includes a pair of supply manifold sections and a supply coupling section coupling upper portions of the pair of supply manifold sections together. The supply manifold sections are connected to a pair of coolant supply passages of a first end plate. The width of the coupling section is smaller than the width of the pair of supply manifold sections in a longitudinal direction along the long sides of the first end plate. A supply pipe extending to the outside of the first end plate is formed integrally with one of the supply manifold sections.
US08617754B2 Systems and methods for independently controlling the operation of fuel cell stacks and fuel cell systems incorporating the same
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for independently controlling the operation of fuel cell stacks and to fuel cell systems incorporating the same. These systems and methods may include providing a fuel cell system including a plurality of fuel cell stacks and at least a first energy storage device and controlling the operation of the plurality of fuel cell stacks based at least in part on a variable associated with the fuel cell system and/or an energy consuming device. These systems and methods may further include beginning production of electrical output from the fuel cell system responsive to a start condition, initiating production of electrical output from the plurality of fuel cell stacks responsive to a plurality of stack start conditions, and ceasing the production of electrical output from the fuel cell stacks responsive to at least a first stack stop condition.
US08617753B2 Fuel cell system with voltage sensor
A fuel cell system (1) which includes: a fuel cell (2) to be supplied with a gas for power generation, the gas unused for the power generation to be discharged out of the fuel cell (2); a circulation flow path (8) through which the discharged gas is resupplied to the fuel cell (2); a variable flow rate circulation pump (6) for circulating the gas through the circulation flow path (8); a valve (7) for discharging the gas in the circulation flow path (8) to the outside thereof; a voltage sensor (22) for measuring voltage of the fuel cell (2); and a controller (32) for controlling the circulation pump (6) and the valve (7). The circulation pump (6) and the valve (7) are controlled based on the voltage (CV) measured by the voltage sensor (22).
US08617748B2 Separation of electrolytes
Methods and articles relating to separation of electrolyte compositions within lithium batteries are provided. The lithium batteries described herein may include an anode having lithium as the active anode species and a cathode having sulfur as the active cathode species. Suitable electrolytes for the lithium batteries can comprise a heterogeneous electrolyte including a first electrolyte solvent (e.g., dioxolane (DOL)) that partitions towards the anode and is favorable towards the anode (referred to herein as an “anode-side electrolyte solvent”) and a second electrolyte solvent (e.g., 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME)) that partitions towards the cathode and is favorable towards the cathode (and referred to herein as an “cathode-side electrolyte solvent”). By separating the electrolyte solvents during operation of the battery such that the anode-side electrolyte solvent is present disproportionately at the anode and the cathode-side electrolyte solvent is present disproportionately at the cathode, the battery can benefit from desirable characteristics of both electrolyte solvents (e.g., relatively low lithium reactivity of the anode-side electrolyte solvent and relatively high polysulfide solubility of the cathode-side electrolyte solvent).
US08617742B2 Non-aqueous electrolyte type lithium ion secondary cell
There is provided a lithium ion secondary cell excellent in charging and discharging cycle characteristics. A lithium ion secondary cell includes an electrode body including a positive electrode having a positive electrode active material, a negative electrode having a negative electrode active material, and a separator, and a non-aqueous electrolyte containing a lithium salt as a supporting salt in an organic solvent, the electrode body and the non-aqueous electrolyte being accommodated in a case. The positive electrode active material is a lithium transition metal oxide having a spinel type structure. The electrolyte contains a compound represented by a chemical formula (I) in an amount of β mol relative to the total content α mol of moisture to be mixed in the cell. β satisfies −0.8≦log(β/α)≦1.5.
US08617740B2 Electrochemical cell
In an electrochemical cell including a cathode 7, an anode 6, electrolyte 10, a hollow container 1 accommodating these members, and terminals extending from the inside to the outside of the hollow container 1, the terminals include a plurality of inner terminals 5a formed on the inner surface of the hollow container 1, a cathode outer terminal 5b1 formed on the outer surface of the hollow container 1, and an inner layer wire 5c formed on the inner layer of the hollow container 1 for commonly connecting the plurality of inner terminals 5a to the cathode outer terminal 5b1.
US08617738B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery includes: a case; an electrode assembly housed in the case and including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator between the first electrode and the second electrode, the first electrode having a coating portion coated with a first active material and a non-coating portion absent the first active material; and a collector plate including first and second collector plates enmeshed together with the non-coating portion therebetween.
US08617737B2 Rechargeable battery
A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly having a first electrode plate, a second electrode plate, and a separator between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate; a first collecting plate electrically coupled to the first electrode plate, the first collecting plate including a fuse reinforcement part having a fuse opening and a reinforcement protrusion protruding from a periphery of the fuse opening; a case housing the electrode assembly and the first collecting plate; and a cap assembly coupled to the case and comprising a cap plate.
US08617732B2 Battery end cap
An battery end cap is disclosed for limiting current flow of a battery. The battery end cap includes a cap terminal, the cap terminal comprising an external conductive surface and an internal conductive surface. The battery end cap further includes a pressure sensitive switch, wherein when the battery end cap is installed on a battery, the pressure sensitive switch is configured to bias the internal conductive surface of the cap terminal from being in electrical communication with an electrical source of the battery. Electrical communication between the cap terminal and the electrical source is created or maintained when a sufficient external pressure is applied to the battery end cap and electrical contact between the cap terminal and the internal electrical source is broken without the sufficient external pressure.
US08617731B2 Film-covered battery and assembled battery
The invention provides a closed type battery comprising a battery element covered with a covering film and a heat fusion seal portion formed by heat fusion on a periphery of the covering film, wherein the cleaving strength upon an internal pressure rise of a seal portion positioned between a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal is larger than that of any other seal portion, and a safety valve adapted to release pressure upon a battery's internal pressure rise is located at a portion other than said inter-terminal seal portion. The invention also provides an assembled battery wherein a plurality of closed type batteries are stacked one upon another while a safety valve adapted to release pressure upon an increase in the internal pressure of the battery is located at a position in no contact with the covering film surface of an adjoining battery.
US08617729B2 Battery pack
Disclosed is a battery pack that enables its outer case to be formed in small thickness regardless of formability and material property, and has enhanced twisting resistance. The battery pack includes a bare cell for generating electricity, a circuit member provided at an upper part of the bare cell and electrically coupled to the bare cell, a frame case formed so as to expose front and back parts of the bare cell externally while covering the bare cell including the circuit member, and a film sheet connected to the frame case so as to cover the front and back parts of the bare cell.
US08617727B2 Perpendicular magnetic recording medium
A perpendicular magnetic recording medium is disclosed which is capable of reducing the orientational dispersion and crystal grain size of a magnetic recording layer, simultaneously reducing the thickness of a non-magnetic intermediate layer, hence, reducing noise, and improving S/N ratio and recording density characteristics. The medium includes a non-magnetic substrate, soft magnetic underlayer, seed layer, first non-magnetic intermediate layer, second non-magnetic intermediate layer, granular magnetic recording layer, exchange coupling force control layer, non-granular magnetic recording layer, protective layer, and lubricant layer sequentially formed on the non-magnetic substrate. The first and second non-magnetic intermediate layers are laminated to form a two-layer non-magnetic intermediate layer and the seed layer is made of a material having an fcc structure.
US08617725B2 Light-emitting element, light-emitting device, and electronic appliance
By use of a 2,9,10-triaryl anthracene derivative in which a diarylamino-substituted aryl group is bonded to the 2-position of a 9,10-diarylanthracene for a light-emitting element, a light-emitting element having high efficiency can be obtained. The emission wavelength of the anthracene derivative is suitable for use in a white light-emitting element. By use of the anthracene derivative for a white light-emitting element, a white light-emitting element having high efficiency can be obtained.
US08617718B2 Mold-resistant gypsum panel paper
A mold resistant gypsum panel having improved mold- and fungal-resistance to the gypsum panel facing paper is provided. Mold-resistant gypsum panels include a gypsum core formed from a gypsum slurry that has voids as a result of foaming of the gypsum slurry. A first paper is located on one side of the gypsum core and a second paper opposes the first paper. A first paper comprises at least one liner ply and at least one filler ply. A second paper also comprises at least one liner play and at least one filler ply. The first and second papers may be substantially the same. At least one of the first paper and the second paper also includes a biocide having 75% retention of the biocide. Also included in at least one of the first and second paper are a retention aid and a sizing agent.
US08617714B2 Synthetic resin leather and manufacturing method of the same
In one form, the present invention provides a synthetic resin leather adhering a base material via an adhesive layer to the back side of a film composed mostly of thermoplastic polyurethane, and the film has on the surface thereof a surface treatment layer formed by coating with a surface treatment agent in which aqueous polycarbonate polyurethane is cross linked by aqueous cross-linking agent containing a carbodiimide group.
US08617712B2 Biaryl polycarbonate intermediate transfer members
An intermediate transfer member that includes biaryl polycarbonates, an optional polysiloxane, and an optional conductive filler component.
US08617711B2 Single layer film and hydrophilic material comprising the same
A single layer film containing at least one anionic hydrophilic group selected from a sulfonic acid group, a carboxyl group and a phosphate group, wherein an anion concentration ratio (Sa/Da) of an anion concentration at a surface (Sa) to an anion concentration at a deep part (Da) is 1.1 or more. The single layer film is a copolymer prepared by polymerizing a composition containing a compound (I) represented by the general formula (1) ([X]s[M1]l[M2]m (1)) and a compound (II) having two or more (meth)acryloyl groups in a molecule at a molar ratio of 15:1 to 1:30 and having a water contact angle of 30° or less. Such a single layer film has high hydrophilicity and surface hardness and is excellent in antifogging property, antifouling property and antistatic property, thus is useful as an antifogging material, an antifouling material, an antistatic material and a multilayer body.
US08617710B2 Process for coating cobalt nanoparticles with copper and copper oxide
The present invention relates to a process for forming cobalt nanoparticles and coating them with copper or copper oxide, in which process a copper salt is mixed to a cobalt salt so that the formed salt mixture obtains a cobalt:copper ratio of >1:1, and a reduction is carried out with a reducing gas, whereby nanoparticles are formed while a coating is formed onto their surface.
US08617698B2 Damage resistant thermal barrier coating and method
A compliant, impact-absorbing layer (27) on a thermal barrier coating (TBC) (26) on a substrate (24). The impact-absorbing layer (27) has an internal structure of planar grains (28) oriented parallel to the substrate so the impact-absorbing layer preferentially fractures horizontally and it blocks vertical cracking. A ceramic armor layer (30) on the impact-absorbing layer has a higher density, and is fractured (32) into fracture plates (33, 34) of a designed size. This provides a thermal barrier with particle impact-resistance that may be applied to gas turbine components where needed.
US08617694B1 Discretely tailored multi-zone bondline for fail-safe structural repair
A repair patch for reworking an inconsistent area of a composite structure includes a patch body adapted to cover the inconsistent area and having a first patch region, a second patch region outside the first patch region and a first separation zone between the first patch region and the second patch region, with the first patch region, the first separation zone and the second patch region having increasing interlaminar fracture toughness from a center to an edge of the patch body; and a layer of adhesive for bonding the patch body to the composite structure.
US08617693B2 Antireflection laminate
An antireflection laminate for use mainly in displays such as LCDs and PDPs, which has a refractive index layer that has, while comprising hollow and solid particles, excellent abrasion resistance, a refractive index of 1.45 or less, and low reflectivity is disclosed. The refractive index layer is obtained by irradiating a refractive index layer forming composition with ionizing radiation, the composition including an ionizing radiation curable resin, a crosslinkable hollow particle having an inside that is porous or hollow and is covered with an outer shell layer and having a surface that is modified with a crosslinkable group(s), and a crosslinkable solid particle having an inside that is neither porous nor hollow and having a surface that is modified with a crosslinkable group(s). The crosslinkable groups comprise an ionizing radiation curable group each and have an identical structure or a very similar structure.
US08617686B2 Carpet, carpet backing and method for making same using olefin block copolymers
A carpet includes (a) a primary backing which has a face and a back surface, (b) a plurality of fibers attached to the primary backing and extending from the face of the primary backing and exposed at the back surface of the primary backing, (c) an adhesive backing, (d) an optional secondary backing adjacent to the adhesive backing, and (e) at least one olefin block copolymer, especially ethylene based block copolymers An olefin block copolymer is extrusion coated onto the back surface of a primary backing to provide an adhesive backing Additional steps and procedures can include washing or scouring the primary backing and fibers prior to the extrusion step, and utilizing implosion agents The preferred olefin block copolymer is an ethylene based block interpolymers The constructions and methods are suited for making tufted, broad-loom carpet having improved abrasion resistance.
US08617680B2 Multilayered polyethylene material and ballistic resistant articles manufactured therefrom
The present invention relates to polyethylene material that has a plurality of unidirectionally oriented polyethylene monolayers cross-plied and compressed at an angle to one another, each polyethylene monolayer composed of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene and essentially devoid of resins. The present invention further relates to ballistic resistant articles that include or incorporate the inventive polyethylene material and to methods of preparing the material and articles incorporating same.
US08617678B2 Crosslinkable composition, crosslinked product and method for production thereof, multilayered structure, crosslinking agent, and compound and method for production thereof
Providing a crosslinkable composition and a crosslinking agent is objected to, which are capable forming a crosslinked product that is superior in retort resistance, with suppressed bleeding out from the crosslinked product, and that has favorable interlayer adhesiveness when formed into a multilayered structure crosslinked product. The present invention provides a crosslinkable composition containing (A) a polymer having an SP value of no less than 9.5 (cal/cm3)1/2 and no greater than 16.5 (cal/cm3)1/2, and (B) a crosslinking agent having one or more polar groups that include an oxygen atom and a nitrogen atom not constituting an aromatic ring, and two or more polymerizable groups. The difference between the SP value of the polymer (A) and the SP value of the crosslinking agent (B) is preferably no greater than 2 (cal/cm3)1/2, and more preferably no greater than 1 (cal/cm3)1/2. A decomposition temperature of the crosslinking agent (B) is preferably no less than 240° C., and a melting point of the crosslinking agent (B) is preferably no greater than 220° C.
US08617677B2 Multilayer films for reclosable packaging
Disclosed is a multilayer structure that comprises a heat sealable layer comprising amorphous polyethylene terephthalate with a melting point greater than 200° C., a pressure sensitive adhesive and at least one tie layer encapsulating the pressure sensitive adhesive. The structure can be coextruded without degrading the pressure sensitive adhesive. Also disclosed is a reclosable package comprising the structure and methods to make such structures.
US08617675B2 Fuel tank attachment and method for producing a fuel tank attachment
Fuel tank attachment, composed of a blend of a first plastic and a second plastic, wherein the first and second plastics are not miscible, wherein the blend contains a compatibilizer to render the first and second plastics miscible, wherein the first plastic is a fuel-resistant plastic, and wherein the second plastic is a non-fuel-resistant plastic, wherein the fuel tank attachment relates to a neck fitting, in particular, to a filler neck or a valve, in particular, a tank venting valve, or a cap element, wherein the fuel tank attachment is molded from a blend as one piece.
US08617671B2 Emblem assembly and method of forming same
An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element and a second element. The first element is configured for attachment to the vehicle and has a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface. The second element is configured for attachment to the first element and has a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third and fourth surfaces, wherein the fifth surface is spaced apart from the second surface to define a channel therebetween. The assembly includes a first coating disposed on the third surface and a tape disposed in contact with at least a portion of each of the second surface, the first coating, and the fifth surface to thereby fill at least a portion of the channel. A method of forming the assembly is also disclosed.
US08617670B2 Emblem assembly and method of forming same
An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element configured for attachment to the vehicle and a second element configured for attachment to the first element. The first element has a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface. The second element has a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third and fourth surfaces. The emblem assembly further includes a coating disposed on the third surface, and a molded resin disposed adjacent and in fixed contact with each of the fifth surface and the coating to contiguously encapsulate the coating and at least a portion of the fifth surface, wherein the molded resin is bondable to the first element. A method of forming the emblem assembly is also disclosed herein.
US08617666B2 Method for applying one or more layers to a paper substrate
The present invention relates to a method for applying two or more layers to a substrate by means of a multilayer curtain coating process. The present invention further relates to a decorative or a functional foil built up of a substrate and at least two coatings present thereon. The present invention further relates to a rigid panel, at least one of the layers of which is a decorative foil, which foil has been applied by means of a curtain coating method.
US08617665B2 Self-cleaning substrates and methods for making the same
A methods, apparatus and compositions for producing colored, self-cleaning substrates by roll coating are provided. The roll coated, colored, self-cleaning substrates retain the predetermined color and a predetermined gloss of the colored coating, thereby facilitating their use in architectural applications. The roll coated, colored, self-cleaning substrates may be iridescent-free.
US08617662B2 Textile blind slat
A method of producing textile blind slat, includes (a) weaving an elongated textile strip, wherein two longitudinal edge portions are double layered, for respectively forming elongated inner space therein; (b) immerging the elongated textile strip into a hardening agent, wherein the elongated textile strip passes through the hardening agent at a predetermined speed; (c) drying the elongated textile strip after the step (b) at a temperature between 100-180 Celsius degree; and (d) flattening the elongated textile strip after the step (c), so as to serve as a blind slat.
US08617659B2 Methods of applying a layer to a honeycomb body
Methods are provided for applying a layer to a honeycomb body. The methods include the steps of applying a cement mixture to a cylindrical surface of the honeycomb body and rotating the honeycomb body and a blade relative to one another about a longitudinal axis of the honeycomb body. The methods further include the steps of holding the blade at a first interior angle during a relative rotation of the honeycomb body and the blade about the longitudinal axis. The methods then include the step of moving the blade from the first interior angle to a second interior angle greater than the first interior angle. The methods still further include the step of rotating of the honeycomb body and the blade relative to one another about the longitudinal axis after the blade begins to move from the first interior angle toward the second interior angle.
US08617658B2 Method and apparatus for conducting film coating on surface of spinning circular workpiece under action of gas pressure, and nozzle utilized in the same
This invention relates to a method for conducting film coating on the surface of spinning circular workpiece under action of gas pressure, and nozzle utilized in the same. Circular workpiece to be coated is held on a rotating mechanism, and a feedstock loading machine having a nozzle, which is capable of guiding redundant feedstock and overflowing in a specific direction, is set to have a 100 μm gap with the circular workpiece. When the rotating mechanism is rotated, the polymer solution is precoated on the surface of the circular workpiece, and when gas valve is opened, the polymer solution is squeezed to a predetermined thickness by an annular high pressure gas-stream formed on the periphery of a cylinder, produced from the high pressure gas released.
US08617654B2 Tinted spray buff and tiecoat
A method for improving the appearance of a hard-surfaced floor. The method includes selecting a tinted coating comprising a base component and at least one colorant wherein the colorant is selected from the group consisting of a tint, a dye, and a pigment; applying the tinted coating to a topcoat on a top surface of the hard-surfaced floor; and urging the tinted coating into any scratches in the hard-surfaced floor.
US08617651B2 Low work function diamond surface and radiation energy converters using same
A surface with a low work function is formed from a starting material of diamond or diamond-like carbon. An oxygenation treatment is performed, so that the surface of the diamond or diamond-like carbon is oxygenated. Lithium is then deposited onto the oxygenated surface by means of a physical vapour deposition process. Excess lithium is then removed to form a lithium monolayer.
US08617637B2 Plasma spray coating method
A thermal spraying method includes forming a coating layer of heat resistant resin on the whole spray area of the metal surface, securely fixing a test piece of the same material as that of the metal as a constituent of heat resistant equipment on the surface of the coating layer, spraying a heat shield coating material onto the test piece, detaching the test piece from the surface of the coating layer, inspecting the condition of spray and setting spray conditions, removing the coating layer and, under the above set spray conditions, spraying the heat shield coating material onto the metal surface to thereby form a heat shield coating layer.
US08617630B2 Fine particle applicator and related methods
Embodiments relate to a fine particle applicator including a loading vessel, a metering roller positioned adjacent the loading vessel, a first stippling roller in contact with the metering roller, a high speed roller, positioned adjacent the metering roller such that bristles of the metering roller and bristles of the high speed roller overlap sufficient to form an interference zone, a second stippling roller, in contact with the high speed roller, a stippling shoe positioned adjacent at least the metering roller and high speed roller and a housing. At least a portion of a surface of the stippling shoe closest to at least the metering roller and high speed roller includes substantially the same curvature as the roller nearest the surface.
US08617629B2 Method of preparing a tuber
A method of preparing a tuber for consumption, with the tuber having added food ingredients in the tuber. The tuber is thoroughly cooked. The tuber is then frozen to provide rigidity about the skin of the tuber, while leaving a portion of the flesh unfrozen. The skin of the tuber is pierced, preferably at an end of the tuber, forming a hole in the skin. The flesh of the tuber is accessed through the hole of in skin, and the flesh of the tuber is disturbed or disrupted. The desired added food material is inserted through the hole in the skin and into the disrupted flesh of the tuber. The tuber may then be completely frozen for later preparation and consumption.
US08617628B2 Spherical core-shell-particle
The invention relates to a spherical core-shell-particle comprising or consisting of the following components: (a) a core consisting of or comprising (a1) a core liquid, (b) a hardened shell surrounding the core, the shell consisting of or comprising (b1) a hardened polysaccharide or a hardened mixture of polysaccharides, (b2) one, two or more water soluble fillers, and (b3) a hardness increasing amount of one, two or more water insoluble fillers and, optionally, (c) a coating layer.
US08617625B2 Dairy composition with probiotics and anti-microbial system
Dairy compositions are provided having a high pH, of about 4.8 to about 6.2, comprising desirable probiotic cultures as well as an anti-microbial system for inhibiting undesirable pathogenic and/or spoilage microbial growth without significantly reducing the beneficial effect of the probiotic cultures.
US08617622B2 Extracts and compounds from Ficus benghalensis for increasing hair growth and decreasing hair loss
This application discloses natural product extracts and compounds from an aerial root of a Ficus plant, such as Ficus benghalensis. The application also discloses the use of natural product extracts and compounds from Ficus plants for increasing hair growth and decreasing hair loss. Methods of producing the extracts and isolating the compounds are further disclosed.
US08617618B2 Topical compositions containing magaldrate
Disclosed are topical compositions containing the active ingredient magaldrate mixed with suitable vehicles and excipients.
US08617616B2 Methods of wound care and treatment
Provided are electrokinetically-altered fluids (e.g., gas-enriched electrokinetic fluids) comprising an ionic aqueous solution of charge-stabilized oxygen-containing nanostructures in an amount sufficient to provide modulation of at least one of cellular membrane potential and cellular membrane conductivity, and therapeutic compositions and methods for use in treating a wound to a surface tissue or a symptom thereof. The electrokinetically-altered fluids or therapeutic compositions and methods include electrokinetically-altered ionic aqueous fluids optionally in combination with other therapeutic agents. Particular aspects provide for regulating or modulating intracellular signal transduction associated with said inflammatory responses by modulation of at least one of cellular membranes, membrane potential, membrane proteins such as membrane receptors, including but not limited to G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCR), and intercellular junctions (e.g., tight junctions, gap junctions, zona adherins and desmasomes). Other embodiments include particular routes of administration or formulations for the electrokinetically-altered fluids (e.g., electrokinetically-altered gas-enriched fluids and solutions) and therapeutic compositions.
US08617614B2 Sustained release preparation for tissue regeneration therapy
The present invention provides a microsphere with a slow-release period from about two weeks to about four weeks following administration, to enable a higher content of a drug to be included, to suppress an initial burst of the drug, and to maintain an optimal, effective blood concentration during the slow-release period. In a microsphere containing a drug and polylactic acid/glycolic acid (PLGA) copolymer, the amount of PLGA copolymer per part by weight of the drug is from about 3 to about 10 parts by weight; the average particle size of the microsphere is from about 20 to about 50 μm; and (3) the PLGA copolymer has a weight-average molecular weight from about 10,000 to about 50,000 and a PLGA compositional ratio from about 75/25 to about 50/50. The microsphere promotes the production of various endogenous repair factors useful against various tissue disorders.
US08617612B2 Granulated material mixture comprising two different granulated materials for artificial callus distraction
A granulate mixture suitable for regenerating a bone contains at least one expandable particle and at least one nondeformable particle. The at least one expandable particle contains a swelling agent. The swelling is enclosed by a biodegradable sheathing or be a biodegradable casing. Three-dimensional callus distraction may be accomplished by introducing the granulated mixture into a bone defect.
US08617611B2 Polymeric compositions comprising therapeutic agents in crystalline phases, and methods of forming the same
The present invention relates to a drug-containing polymeric composition comprising at least one therapeutic agent encapsulated in at least one biocompatible polymer, wherein at least a portion of the therapeutic agent in this polymeric composition is crystalline. The at least one biocompatible polymer may form a substantially continuous polymeric matrix with the at least one therapeutic agent encapsulated therein. Alternatively, the at least one biocompatible polymer may form polymeric particles with the at least one therapeutic agent encapsulated therein.
US08617609B2 Methods and compositions for selectively removing potassium ion from the gastrointestinal tract of a mammal
The present invention provides methods and compositions for the treatment of ion imbalances using core-shell composites and compositions comprising such core-shell composites. In particular, the invention provides core-shell particles and compositions comprising potassium binding polymers, and core-shell particles and compositions comprising sodium binding polymers, and in each case, pharmaceutical compositions thereof. Methods of use of the polymeric and pharmaceutical compositions for therapeutic and/or prophylactic benefits are also disclosed. The compositions and methods of the invention offer improved approaches for treatment of hyperkalemia and other indications related to potassium ion homeostasis, and for treatment of hypertension and other indicates related to sodium ion homeostasis.
US08617606B2 Hydrogel suspension and manufacturing process thereof
The present invention relates to a hydrogel suspension which comprises a fine particle and high molecular weight hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose or methylcellulose, which exhibits high transparency and stability; and a manufacturing process thereof.
US08617605B2 Polymer release system
A pharmaceutical composition for controlled release of an active substance, the composition being a matrix composition of: (a) a substantially water soluble or crystalline polymer, (b) an active substance, and optionally, (c) one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients having a water solubility of at least 1 mg/ml at ambient temperature. The matrix composition does not contain a water dispersible or water soluble surface active agent that has at least one domain, which is compatible with the polymer in the matrix composition, and which substantially eliminates water diffusion between the interface between the polymer crystals.
US08617603B2 Coated tablet
A main object of the present invention is to provide a novel coated tablet which contains a drug having a guanidino group and does not suffer an obvious color change even when packed in a one-dose pack together with a drug having a (5-methyl-2-oxo-1,3-dioxol-4-yl)methyl (DMDO) group. The present invention provides a coated tablet characterized in that an uncoated tablet containing a drug having a guanidino group has been coated with a polyvinyl alcohol for film coating which comprises polyvinyl alcohol, acrylic acid, and methyl methacrylate.
US08617600B2 Modified release preparations containing oxcarbazepine and derivatives thereof
Controlled-release preparations of oxcarbazepine and derivatives thereof for once-a-day administration are disclosed. The inventive compositions comprise solubility- and/or release enhancing agents to provide tailored drug release profiles, preferably sigmoidal release profiles. Methods of treatment comprising the inventive compositions are also disclosed.
US08617599B2 Modified release compositions comprising tacrolimus
A modified release composition comprising tacrolimus releases less than 20% w/w of the active ingredient within 0.5 hours when subjected to an in vitro dissolution test using USP Paddle method and using 0.1 N HCl as dissolution medium and has increased bioavailability by effectively reducing or even avoiding the effects of CYP3A4 metabolism. The modified composition may be coated with an enteric coating; and/or may comprise a solid dispersion or a solid solution of tacrolimus in a hydrophilic or water-miscible vehicle and one or more modifying release agents; and/or may comprise a solid dispersion or a solid solution of tacrolimus in an amphiphilic or hydrophobic vehicle and optionally one or more modifying release agents.
US08617594B2 Stable pharmaceutical composition and methods of using same
The present invention relates to, inter alia, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a polyunsaturated fatty acid and to methods of using the same to treat or prevent cardiovascular-related diseases.
US08617588B2 Highly compactable and durable direct compression excipients and excipient systems
The present invention relates to solid dispersions including, but not limited to, co-processed carbohydrates with different solubilities and concentrations, which have a microcrystalline plate structure. The solid dispersions, excipient systems and formulations of the present invention are highly compactable and durable and when compressed into solid dosage forms demonstrate uniform densification, low friability at low pressures, and/or relatively constant low disintegration times at various hardnesses. The solid dosage forms of the present invention demonstrate superior organoleptics, disintegration, and/or robustness.
US08617585B2 Intramedullary drug delivery device and method of treating bone fractures
An intramedullary drug delivery device is disclosed and can be inserted within a bone canal of a bone. The intramedullary drug delivery device can include a housing. A drug delivery region can be established along the housing. Also, the drug delivery region can be configured to substantially span a fracture within the bone.
US08617581B2 Agents for combating plant pests
The present invention relates to compositions for controlling plant pests, which contain the compound of the formula (I) in a mixture with fungicidally active compounds, except for cyclopropylcarboxamide derivatives and azolylmethylcycloalkanes.
US08617579B2 Pre-blended mixtures of specific naturally sourced liquid materials structured with naturally sourced high melting point structuring material
The invention provides pre-blended mixtures of specific naturally sourced liquid materials of defined viscosity structured with naturally sourced high melting point materials.
US08617576B2 Preservation of bioactive materials by freeze dried foam
This invention provides methods, systems and compositions to preserve bioactive materials in a dried foam matrix. Methods provide non-boiling foam generation and penetration of preservative agents at temperatures near the phase transition temperature of the membranes. Bioactive materials can be preserved with high initial viability in a freeze-foam process employing low temperature secondary drying.
US08617574B2 Nontypable Haemophilus influenzae antigens
The present invention relates to isolated nucleic acid molecules which encode an antigen from a nontypable Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae) species, a vector which comprises such nucleic acid molecule, and a host cell comprising such vector. Furthermore, the invention provides antigens from a nontypable Haemophilus influenzae species, as well as fragments and variants thereof, a process for producing such antigens, and a process for producing a cell, which expresses such antigen. More specifically such antigens are produced by or associated with bacterial infections caused by nontypable Haemophilus influenzae. Moreover, the present invention provides antibodies binding to such antigen, a hybridoma cell producing such antibodies, methods for producing such antibodies, a pharmaceutical composition comprising such nucleic acid molecule, antigen, vector or antibody, the use of such nucleic acid molecule, antigen, vector or antibody for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition, methods for identifying an antagonist capable of binding such antigen or of reducing or inhibiting the interaction activity of such antigen, methods for diagnosing an infection with nontypable Haemophilus influenzae and methods for the treatment or prevention of an infection with nontypable Haemophilus influenzae.
US08617572B2 Botulinum toxin treatments of depression
Methods for preventing or treating depression including a depression mediated by the thalamus. Depression, including a thalamically mediated depression, can be treated by peripheral administration of a botulinum toxin to or to the vicinity of a trigeminal sensory nerve, thereby preventing or treating the depression.
US08617571B2 Suture line administration technique using botulinum toxin
The present invention utilizes patient-specific landmarks in order to treat headache pain. In one aspect, the present invention relates to the administration of Clostridial toxins, such as a botulinum neurotoxin, to a patient suffering from a headache pain, where the location of administration of the botulinum toxin is based upon at least one suture line of the patient's skull.
US08617569B2 Treatment of migraine headache with diffusion of toxin in non-muscle related foraminal sites
A method for treating a patient with migraine headache includes administering to the patient a therapeutically effective amount of an invertebrate presynaptic neurotoxin in a pharmaceutically safe form. The administration includes extramuscular injection of the neurotoxin to emerging nerve points including foraminal sites for enabling neurotoxin access to concentrated nerve bundles at exit points of the foramina.
US08617561B2 Immune disease medicament comprising a modulator of the binding between a heparin binding domain of thrombospondin-1 and a beta1 integrin
An article of manufacture comprising packaging material and a pharmaceutical composition is disclosed, the article of manufacture being identified in print in or on the packaging material for treatment of an immunity-related disease in a subject in need thereof. The pharmaceutical composition comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and, as an active ingredient, a compound being capable of modulating an interaction between a heparin-binding domain of a thrombospondin and a receptor of the heparin-binding domain.
US08617559B2 Anti-FcRH5 antibodies and immunoconjugates and methods of use
The present invention is directed to compositions of matter useful for the treatment of hematopoietic tumor in mammals and to methods of using those compositions of matter for the same.
US08617558B2 Camptothecin-binding moiety conjugates
The invention relates to therapeutic conjugates with improved ability to target various diseased cells containing a targeting moiety (such as an antibody or antibody fragment), a linker and a camptothecin as a therapeutic moiety, and further relates to processes for making and using the said conjugates.
US08617557B2 Antibody fusion with IL-12 proteins with disrupted heparin-binding activity
Disclosed herein are polypeptides which comprise all or part of an antibody linked to all or part of a cytokine. The cytokine sequences of the polypeptides have a modified heparin binding region which disrupts, inhibits, or reduces the ability of the cytokine to bind a heparin compound as compared to a corresponding cytokine having an unmodified heparin binding region. Also disclosed are methods of treating cancer, inducing cell proliferation, and reducing the non-specific binding and/or non-specific localization of the polypeptides.
US08617553B2 Use of goat serum for veterinary treatment
Methods for veterinary treatment of mammals are described, for treatment of conditions having an inflammatory component. The methods are particularly suited to treatment of cats, dogs, or horses.
US08617550B2 Treatment of vasculitis with IL-6 antagonist
To provide a preventive and/or therapeutic agent for vasculitis such as polyarteritis nodosa, the aortitis syndrome, and a vasculitis that is associated with immunological abnormalities, said agent comprising an interleukin-6 (IL-6) antagonist as an active ingredient.
US08617547B2 Methods and compositions for diagnosing prostate cancer
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for cancer diagnosis, research and therapy, including but not limited to, cancer markers. In particular, the present invention relates to ubiquilin 1 markers for cancer.
US08617546B2 Anticancer agent comprising anti-PD-1 antibody or anti-PD-L1 antibody
Provided is an anticancer agent which comprises an anti-PD-1 antibody or an anti-PD-L1 antibody as an active ingredient, functioning to reverse the unresponsiveness of iNKT cells in which anergy has been induced by administration with an iNKT cell ligand. The anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 antibody blocks the PD-1/PD-L1-mediated signaling pathway not only to prevent the iNKT cell ligand-induced iNKT cell anergy, but also to reverse the unresponsiveness of already anergic iNKT cells to produce cytokines. In addition, the anti-PD1 or anti-PD-L1 antibody ensures the potent anti-tumor activity of iNKT cells as demonstrated by a significant reduction in the number of metastatic nodules in B16F10 melanoma metastasis models in vivo. Collectively, the anticancer agent can be very useful in the treatment of cancer, particularly metastatic cancer.
US08617542B2 DispersinB™, 5-fluorouracil, deoxyribonuclease I and proteinase K-based antibiofilm compositions and uses thereof
The present invention provides antibiofilm composition comprising two or more agents selected from the group consisting of DispersinB™, 5-Fluorouracil, Deoxyribonuclease I and Proteinase K for preventing growth and proliferation of biofilm-embedded microorganisms in wound care, oral care, and disease-related infections and methods of treatment in mammals. The invention further provides methods for preparing medical devices, and wound care devices using an antibiofilm composition comprising two or more antimicrobial agents selected from the group consisting of DispersinB™, 5-Fluorouracil, Deoxyribonuclease I and Proteinase K.
US08617541B2 Solubilized CoQ-10
The present invention is directed to compositions and methods of delivery of CoQ-10 solubilized in monoterpenes. Use of monoterpenes as dissolving agents, greatly effects the ability to incorporate greater amounts of bioactive CoQ-10 in formulations, such as soft gel capsules.
US08617539B2 Method of administration of platelet-rich plasma to treat an acute cardiac dysfunction
Methods are described for using compositions containing platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of acute or chronic dysfunction of cardiac muscle. The method may employ a kit which includes a platelet-rich plasma composition and a pH adjusting agent and a catheter or syringe for delivery of the platelet-rich plasma composition to dysfunctional cardiac muscle. The kit may also include a syringe for withdrawing blood from a patient and a centrifuge device means to obtain platelet-rich plasma.
US08617531B2 Methods of making proteins and peptides containing a single free cysteine
Disclosed is a method for refolding a protein or peptide that does not contain essential disulfides and that contains at least one free cysteine residue. Also disclosed are polymer IFN-γ conjugates that have been created by the chemical coupling of polymers such as polyethylene glycol moieties to IFN-γ, particularly via a free cysteine in the protein. Also disclosed are analogs of bioactive peptides that may be used to create longer acting versions of the peptides, including analogs of glucagon, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), GLP-2, Gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP), PYY, exendin, ghrelin, gastrin, amylin, and oxyntomodulin.
US08617527B1 Silicone citric acid esters
The current invention is drawn to a series of citrate esters having alkyl groups and a silicone groups esterified onto citric acid. This results an outstanding skin feel, making outstanding waterproofing and emollient properties when applied to skin. A required critical element of the invention is that both the silicone and the alkyl material be mono functional with regard to hydroxyl functionality. If either group has more than mono functionality, they will react with the citric acid (which has three carboxyl groups) to give undesired polymers. The ability to vary the ratio of alkyl to silicone results an ability to alter skin feel and consequently provide the cosmetic formulator with more latitude in choosing ingredients for incorporation into formulations.
US08617524B2 Depigmenting keratin materials utilizing dithiolane compounds
A cosmetic regime or regimen for depigmenting, lightening and/or bleaching keratin materials, especially the skin, entails topically applying thereon a cosmetic composition containing a dithiolane compound of formula (I): in which: Y is O, NR1 or S R1 is a hydrogen atom; a C1-C20 alkyl radical or an optionally substituted phenyl radical; R is a hydrogen atom; or a C1-C20 alkyl radical, or an optionally substituted phenyl radical, or a C1-C8 alkyl radical containing an optionally substituted phenyl substituent; n=0 or 1 or 2; and also the salts, chelates, solvates and optical isomers thereof.
US08617523B2 Anti-biofilm carbonate compounds for use in oral care compositions
The present invention includes oral care compositions and methods for inhibiting growth and formation of oral biofilms by quorum sensing inhibition and/or bactericidal activity. In some embodiments, the present invention discloses an oral care composition including a therapeutically effective amount of at least one carbonate compound of Formula (1) and at least one excipient: wherein, R1 and R2 are independently: an aliphatic radical; a hydroxyaliphatic radical; or an aryl radical. In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a method of providing oral care benefits including applying to an oral cavity an oral care composition containing a therapeutically effective amount of at least one carbonate compound of Formula (1) and at least one excipient. In some embodiments, the present invention discloses a method of up-regulating or down-regulating periodontal disease metabolites including applying to an oral cavity an oral care composition containing a therapeutically effective amount of at least on carbonate compound of Formula (1) and at least one excipient.
US08617520B2 Cancer therapy
The present invention relates to a method of preventing, treating or inhibiting the development of tumors or metastases in a subject and to an immunomodulator for use in such therapy, in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent. An aspect the present invention is a method of preventing, treating, reducing, inhibiting and/or controlling the formation or establishment of metastasis of a primary neoplasia, tumor or cancer at one or more sites distinct from a primary neoplasia, tumor or cancer, in a subject intended to undergo chemotherapy, wherein the method comprises administering to the subject, a therapeutically effective amount of an antimetabolite pyrimidine analogue and an immunomodulator.
US08617518B2 Methods and compositions for improved F-18 labeling of proteins, peptides and other molecules
The present application discloses compositions and methods of synthesis and use of 68Ga, 18F or 19F labeled molecules of use in PET or MRI imaging. Preferably, the 18F or 19F is conjugated to a targeting molecule by formation of a complex with a group IIIA metal and binding of the complex to a chelating moiety, which may be directly or indirectly attached to the targeting molecule. In other embodiments, the 68Ga, 18F or 19F labeled moiety may comprise a targetable construct used in combination with a bispecific antibody to target a disease-associated antigen. In more preferred embodiments, a chelating moiety or targetable construct may be conjugated to a targeting molecule, such as an antibody or antibody fragment.
US08617511B2 Process for producing hydrogen from methanol
The invention is directed to a process for producing hydrogen from methanol, comprising providing at least one flow of methanol and (1) catalytically converting part of the methanol or a fuel gas with air oxygen to carbon dioxide and water, while generating heat and (2) catalytically converting the methanol or the remaining part of the methanol at elevated temperature to hydrogen and carbon monoxide, followed by conversion of the carbon monoxide with water to hydrogen and carbon dioxide, wherein the heat generated in step (1) is sufficient to produce the elevated temperature required in step (2), wherein both steps (1) and (2) are carried out in a bed of sintered metal particles, the bed of sintered metal in step (2) having a surface that is catalytically active for the conversion of methanol to hydrogen, and wherein the beds of sintered metal particles are in heat exchanging relationship.
US08617506B2 Method and facility for recovering CO2 gas in cement manufacturing facility
To provide a method and facility for enabling CO2 gas generated in a cement manufacturing facility to be separated and recovered at a high concentration. To this end, according to the present invention, the calcination of a cement material and the recovery of CO2 gas generated in a calciner are performed by one of the following steps of: [1] superheating the cement material before calcination to at least the calcination temperature thereof in a superheating furnace and then mixing the superheated cement material with a new cement material before calcination in a mixer/calciner; [2] mixing, in the mixer/calciner, the cement material before calcination with a part of high-temperature cement clinker discharged from a cement kiln; and [3] using an externally heated calciner.
US08617505B2 Method of producing silicon carbide
A method of producing silicon carbide is provided. The method includes heating a cured product of a curable silicone composition in a non-oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature exceeding 1,500° C. but not more than 2,600° C. The method is capable of producing high-purity silicon carbide simply and at a high degree of productivity, and is capable of simply producing a silicon carbide molded item having a desired shape and dimensions.
US08617504B2 Hydrophilic silica for sealants
Hydrophilic precipitated silicas which combine a particularly low initial moisture content with low moisture absorption over time, a low tapped density and a low silanol group density, have the following physicochemical parameters: equilibrium moisture content (at 70% relative humidity/20° C.) of 0.5%-5.0% by weight, based on the weight of the hydrophilic precipitated silica, BET surface area of 50-250 m2/g, CTAB surface area of 50-250 m2/g, and DBP (anhydrous) of 200-350 g/100 g.
US08617501B2 Process for removing sulphur-containing, nitrogen-containing and halogen-containing impurities contained in a synthesis gas
The invention relates to a process for finally removing sulphur-containing, nitrogen-containing and halogen-containing impurities contained in a synthesis gas, said process including: a) a joint step for hydrolysing COS and HCN contained in the gas and for collecting the halogen-containing compounds, using a TiO2-based catalyst, b) a washing step using a solvent, c) a step for desulphurization on a collecting or adsorbing mass. The synthesis gas purified in accordance with the process of the invention contains less than 10 ppb by weight, less than 10 ppb by weight of nitrogen-containing impurities and less than 10 ppb by weight of halogen-containing impurities.
US08617498B2 Differential NH3 and NOX measurement using an exhaust gas sensor coupled with a micro SCR catalyst
Systems and methods are disclosed that include an exhaust gas stream produced by an engine and an aftertreatment system including an SCR catalyst element receiving at least a portion of the exhaust gas stream. An exhaust outlet flow path has an inlet fluidly coupled to the exhaust gas stream at a position downstream of at least a portion of the SCR catalyst element that bypasses at least a portion of exhaust gas stream to provide for compositional measurement of the exhaust gas with a compositional sensor located downstream of a diagnostic catalyst positioned in the exhaust outlet flow path.
US08617497B2 Mixed oxide materials for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases
The invention relates to the use of mixed oxides made of cerium oxide, zirconium oxide, rare earth sesquioxide and niobium oxide as catalytically active materials for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides with ammonia or a compound that can decompose to form ammonia in the exhaust gas of internal combustion engines in motor vehicles that are predominantly leanly operated, and to compositions or catalysts which contain said mixed oxides in combination with zeolite compounds and/or zeolite-like compounds and are suitable for the denitrogenation of lean motor vehicle exhaust gases in all essential operating states.
US08617494B2 Condenser and method for cleaning flue gases
An apparatus and method to clean flue gases. As shown in FIG. 1, a condenser 10 is provided having two packed beds (20/26) and two condensate loops. The condensate loops are configured such that anti-corrosive agent (40/41) may injected. Corrosives are removed from flue gases as condensate containing anti-corrosive agents passes over the flue gases.
US08617492B2 System and method for making low volatile carboneaceous matter with supercritical CO2
A system for making low volatile carbonaceous material including a digestion vessel in communication with a carbonaceous material feedstock unit for producing a digested carbonaceous material; an extraction vessel in communication with the digestion vessel, the extraction vessel containing supercritical carbon dioxide fluid for extracting hydrocarbons from the digested carbonaceous material to produce an extract solvent and the low volatile carbonaceous material; and at least one separation vessel in communication with the extraction vessel for separating the extract solvent to a carbon dioxide gas and a stream of extracted hydrocarbons.
US08617482B2 Maintaining sterile conditions in a fluid transportation system
A capping device is configured to terminate a connector while disconnected from another connector in a fluid transportation system, e.g., for peritoneal dialysis. The connector comprises an exposed surface portion that is enclosed when the connector is connected to the other connector. The capping device comprises a body defining a chamber with an opening, a liquid-containing disinfectant in the chamber, a sealing element arranged in the opening to form a sealed cavity retaining the disinfectant, and a structure for engaging and guiding the connector towards the body such that a portion of the connector displaces the sealing element into the chamber. The sealed cavity is configured such that a displacement of the sealing element into the chamber actively presses the disinfectant out of the sealed cavity, for disinfecting at least part of the exposed surface portion. The capping device may be manufactured by introducing the liquid-containing disinfectant into the chamber through the opening, and by arranging the sealing element in the opening to form the sealed cavity.
US08617481B1 Indexable dispenser cartridges
An indexable cartridge and method that is useable in either a stagnant fluid environment or in a moving fluid environment with the indexable cartridge floatable in a stagnant fluid environment and securable in a moving fluid environment with the indexable cartridge having a housing having one or more diffusion ports and a sleeve having one or more diffusion ports indexable to a diffusion port alignment through resilient yielding of the sleeve while a set of ribs inhibit lateral flow therebetween.
US08617479B2 Foot/footwear sterilization system
A foot/shoe sanitizing system includes a housing having at least one opening and a set of foot/shoe support bars coupled to the housing in proximity to the at least one opening. The foot/shoe support bars support a foot or shoe placed through the opening(s). At least one ultraviolet emitting device is supported within the housing beneath the set of foot/shoe support bars. The ultraviolet emitting devices direct ultraviolet light around and/or through the set of foot/shoe support bars towards the foot or shoe placed on the foot/shoe support bars. The ultraviolet emitting devices are controllably powered by a source of power to emit ultraviolet light. In a preferred embodiment, the ultraviolet emitting device emits light that includes short wavelength ultraviolet light, causing the formation of ozone in the area of the shoe, thereby killing pathogens that are not easily killed with ultraviolet light alone.
US08617478B2 Photocatalytic device with mixed photocatalyst/silica structure
A catalytic device comprises a mixed structure of photocatalyst and silica. The mixed structure may be comprised of alternating layers of photocatalyst and silica, a layer having a uniform mixture of photocatalyst particles and silica particles, or a layer having a graded mixture of photocatalyst particles and silica particles.
US08617477B2 Desulphurization of hydrocarbon feeds using electrolytic hydrogen
An apparatus for removing sulfur from a hydrocarbon feed includes a cell having two compartments and a membrane separating the compartments, wherein one compartment is communicated with a hydrogen source and the other compartment is communicated with the hydrocarbon feed to be treated, wherein the membrane comprises a palladium membrane which is modified to have an additional amount of a mix of palladium and other metals (Ni, Ag, Co and Au) between about 4.62*10−3 and 1.62*10−2 g/cm2; and a power source connected across the hydrogen source compartment to generate a current across same, whereby atomic hydrogen is formed from the hydrogen source at a surface of the membrane and diffuses across the membrane to react with the hydrocarbon feed. A process using this apparatus is also provided.
US08617476B2 Honeycomb filter and urea SCR device
A honeycomb filter includes a honeycomb structure and a zeolite. The honeycomb structure includes cell walls having a porosity of about 55% to about 65% and extending along a longitudinal direction of the honeycomb structure to define cells between the cell walls. Each of the cells is sealed at either end of the cells. The zeolite is supported on the cell walls of the honeycomb structure. An amount of the zeolite supported on the cell walls is from about 80 g/L to about 150 g/L. A thermal conductivity of the cell walls supporting the zeolite is about 3 W/mK or more.
US08617472B2 System for protecting circuitry in high-temperature environments
An electrical device for performing a particular function includes a system circuit for performing the function, and a dedicated power supply for providing power to the circuit. Both the system circuit and the power supply are hermetically sealed within a housing. The device within the housing is intended to be sterilized using high temperature, reaching a sterilization temperature. According to the invention, the device includes a thermal switch which is electrically connected between the system circuit and the power supply. The thermal switch is switchable between an open position wherein the system circuit is electrically isolated from the power supply and receives no power therefrom and a closed position wherein the system circuit is electrically connected to the power supply and receives power therefrom. The thermal switch switches from its closed position to its open position in response to the temperature within the housing rising to a predetermined switch-open temperature value. The thermal switch thereafter switches from its open position to its closed position in response to the temperature within the housing cooling to a switch-closed temperature value. With the present invention, the electrical components of a device are automatically protected from thermal damage during sterilization.
US08617471B2 Fabrication tolerant design for the chip-integrated spectroscopic identification of solids, liquids, and gases
Methods and systems for a label-free on-chip optical absorption spectrometer consisting of a photonic crystal slot waveguide are disclosed. The invention comprises an on-chip integrated optical absorption spectroscopy device that combines the slow light effect in photonic crystal waveguide and optical field enhancement in a slot waveguide and enables detection and identification of multiple analytes to be performed simultaneously using optical absorption techniques leading to a device for chemical and biological sensing, trace detection, and identification via unique analyte absorption spectral signatures. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08617466B2 Electrolytic degradation systems and methods usable in industrial applications
The present disclosure relates to the use of a split and single electrical cells in industrial applications, and particularly in aseptic packaging applications.
US08617465B2 Dialysis connector and cap compatible with gas sterilization
A dialysis disposable sterilization method including: fitting a cap to a connector such that a cap/connector interface can hold a pressure; applying a sterilizing gas through an inside of the connector such that the gas flows through (i) the inside of the connector, (ii) around to the outside of the connector, (iii) past a stabilization rib, and (iv) into contact with one side of the cap/connector interface; and applying the sterilizing gas at an outside of the cap such that the sterilizing gas flows around a bottom of the cap and contacts an opposing side of the cap/connector interface.
US08617464B2 Sanitizing devices and methods of their use
The present invention relates to sanitization devices and methods. More particularly, the invention relates to devices and methods that significantly reduce or eliminate germs, bacteria and/or other microorganisms from objects such as bags, purses, footwear or other objects, as well as bare feet, hands, paws, hooves or other anatomical surfaces, which come into contact with them. The device and method uses germicidal radiation which exposes only the areas of the object that come into applied contact with the device. A top platform of the device is partitioned so that each partition can act independently of each other.
US08617463B2 Polyolefin compositions having improved optical and mechanical properties
The invention relates to the use of a polyolefin composition comprising a propylene-ethylene random copolymer having an ethylene content of 0.5-10 wt % and a randomness R of the ethylene distribution in the polymer chain of ≧0.945 for the production of articles having high sterilization resistance.
US08617460B2 Gas heater
A method and apparatus for heat treating an article by delivering a heating flow of fluid to a localized region of the article, and simultaneously delivering a cooling flow of fluid to a further region of the article.
US08617456B1 Bulk low-cost interface-defined laminated materials and their method of fabrication
This invention describes a novel type of materials named by the inventors as Interface-Defined nano-Laminates (IDnL), and a new method for fabricating these materials from ceramic, metallic, and other powders. The laminate layer thickness in IDnL is smaller than that of ordinary laminates, but greater than that of superlattices. IDnL are fundamentally different from ordinary laminates in that their properties are defined by interfaces, and not by the properties of the bulk materials comprising individual layers. In contrast to superlattice materials, IDnL can be made thermally stable, due to the wide selection of interface-defining materials, which allows judicial use of equilibrium phase diagrams, and the “entropic stabilization” approach discovered by the authors; and in addition IDnL can be manufactured inexpensively in bulk, industrial quantities and large sizes by the techniques revealed in this invention. The degree of interface coherency in an IDnLs can be varied to optimize material properties.
US08617455B2 Aligned porous substrates by directional melting and resolidification
A method of forming a templated casting involves incorporating a liquid feedstock into the channels of a honeycomb substrate to form a feedstock-laden substrate, solidifying the liquid feedstock within the channels, and then locally melting and directionally re-solidifying the feedstock.
US08617453B2 Molding method and mold therefor
Molding methods and molds for making a synthetic resin molded product include disposing a curable liquid resin mixture in a recess of a female mold. The curable liquid resin mixture is then simultaneously agitated and degassed by a mixer while under a partial vacuum. More specifically, at least the female mold is orbited around an orbital axis while being rotated about a rotational axis that is eccentric to the orbital axis. After being thoroughly mixed and degassed, the liquid mixture is then cured in the mold unit.
US08617452B2 Methods of making a construction material with a voltage
Disclosed herein are materials, and methods for creating materials, that does not require heat to create a functional construction material. One purpose of the materials and methods disclosed herein is, at least, to provide industries, such as the construction industry, with a product that significantly reduces the generation of carbon dioxide during production, unlike Portland Cement and typical geopolymer cements. Further, another advantage of the invention is that it utilizes basic processes and materials that may be incorporated into existing production facilities and methodologies. A further purpose is to increase the quality of the product by reducing damage from, for example, exposures to adverse climatic conditions (such as extreme or variable weather), or damaging chemicals such as chlorides, sulfates, acids, or the like.
US08617450B2 Method and apparatus for the vulcanisation of tyres for vehicle wheels
A vulcanisation apparatus and method for tires for vehicle wheels includes the steps of: placing a green tire, arranged on a toroidal support, inside a vulcanisation mold; connecting a supply device of at least one pressurised primary working fluid and a supply device of at least one pressurised secondary working fluid to the vulcanisation mold in a prevulcanisation and molding station; at least partially vulcanising a radially internal portion of the green tire on the toroidal support; transferring the mold to a vulcanisation station and completing the vulcanisation of the prevulcanised tire by supplying the at least one pressurised primary working fluid inside the toroidal support.
US08617447B2 Methods of making an unsupported article of pure or doped semiconducting material
The invention relates to methods of making articles of semiconducting material and semiconducting material articles formed thereby, such as articles of semiconducting material that may be useful in making photovoltaic cells.
US08617446B2 Method and device for producing plastic molded skins having different subregions
The present invention relates to a method and a device for producing plastic molded skins having different subregions. For this purpose, before melting the first plastic material, a region of the molding tool surface (2) is covered with a separate energy self-sufficient mask (3). After the unmasked region of the molded tool surface (2) has been coated, the mask (3) is removed, and in a second manufacturing step the exposed subregions of the molding tool surface (2) is coated with a different plastic material, the two subregions of the plastic skin bonding with each other.
US08617445B2 Process for producing oriented thermoplastic polyester resin sheet, and laminate-molded body
The present invention provides a process for producing an oriented thermoplastic polyester resin sheet which is excellent in tensile strength, tencile modulas and heat resistance, and a light laminate-molded body using the same, which has a low linear expansion coefficient and is excellent in impact resistance, durability, easiness of handling, productivity, and others. A process for producing an oriented thermoplastic polyester resin sheet, which includes: pultrusion-drawing a thermoplastic polyester resin sheet in an amorphous state at a temperature from the glass transition temperature of the thermoplastic polyester resin −20° C. to the glass transition temperature of the thermoplastic polyester resin +20° C.; and then drawing the resultant uniaxially at a temperature higher than the temperature for the pultrusion-drawing. A laminate-molded body, wherein a thermoplastic resin layer is laminated on each of the surfaces of the resultant oriented thermoplastic polyester resin sheet.
US08617444B2 Method for preparing curved fibers
Equipment and methods for preparing curved fibers in a batch or continuous process. Fiber strands comprising a thermoplastic material are placed on a cylindrical surface and heated such that they soften and become malleable. The fiber strands assume the curvature of the cylindrical surface and, upon cooling below their softening temperature, retain the curvature. The curved-fiber strands are then cut to a desired length.
US08617438B1 Fly ash-based cementitious mixture
A cementitious mixture for high-volume production of masonry products comprises a hydraulic binder accounting for 20 wt % or more of the cementitious mixture, the hydraulic binder comprising 75 to 100 wt % Class C fly ash with a CaO equivalent content of at least 15% by weight. The cementitious mixture also comprises one or more aggregates, and a set control system.
US08617436B2 Remote marking
Remote marker systems are disclosed for marking a target using optical markers, including systems that allow a target to be marked using a remote optical marking device, as well as photochromic solutions and methods of their preparation.
US08617434B2 Additive for dielectric fluid
A dielectric fluid comprising hydrocarbon liquid admixed with an ester-based compound, wherein the ester-based compound is present in an effective amount to impart breakdown inhibiting properties to a paper insulation material when the dielectric fluid is in contact with the paper material.
US08617429B2 Composite electrode active material having M1-xRuxO3 (M=Sr, Ba, Mg), supercapacitor using the same and fabrication method thereof
Disclosed are a composite electrode active material and a supercapacitor using the same, and more particularly, an electrode active material having M1-xRuxO3 (M=Sr, Ba, Mg) and a supercapacitor using the same, wherein the electrode active material is characterized by comprising M1-xRuxO3, where M is at least one selected from a group consisting of strontium, barium and magnesium, and a method for fabricating a composite electrode active material comprises (a) preparing a spinning solution containing a precursor of M oxide, a precursor of Ru oxide, a polymer and a solvent, (b) spinning the spinning solution on a collector to fabricate a nanofiber web having M1-xRuxO3 precursor, and (c) performing heat treatment for the nanofiber web to remove the polymer so as to make an electrode active material in the structure of porous nanofiber web having M1-xRuxO3, wherein the M comprises at least one selected from a group consisting of strontium, barium and magnesium.
US08617427B2 Electrically conductive polymeric compositions, contacts, assemblies and methods
Electrically conductive polymeric compositions adapted for use in forming electronic devices are disclosed. The compositions are thermally curable at temperatures less than about 250° C. Compositions are provided which may be solvent-free and so can be used in processing or manufacturing operations without solvent recovery concerns. The compositions utilize (i) fatty acid modified epoxy acrylate and/or methacrylate monomer(s) and/or oligomer(s), (ii) fatty acid modified polyester acrylate and/or methacrylate monomer(s) and/or oligomer(s), or combinations of (i) and (ii). Also described are electronic assemblies such as solar cells using the various compositions and related methods.
US08617425B2 Liquid composition containing phosphoric or thiophosphoric triamide derivative and use thereof
The invention relates to a liquid composition containing phosphoric or thiophosphoric triamide derivatives and suitable solvents selected from the group comprising esters of hydroxyacids, heterocyclic alcohols and their derivatives, cyclic carbonic acid esters and dicarboxyacid esters, optionally the composition may also contain glycol ethers and auxiliary substances. The invention further includes the use of this liquid composition as urease inhibitor in urea-containing fertilizers, in fertilizers and wastes of animal origin or in sprays masking animal urine odors.
US08617424B2 Two stage gasifier for generating syngas
The present subject matter describes a gasification system (100) for gasifying a variety of feedstocks. A first stage gasifier (105) receives a feedstock either from a first group of feedstocks or a second group of feedstocks or both. The first stage gasifier decomposes the received feedstock to produce a first product. A second stage gasifier (115) is connected to the first stage gasifier (105) for receiving the first product. In addition, the second stage gasifier (115) receives a feedstock either from a third group of feedstocks or a fourth group of feedstocks or both. The second stage gasifier (115) gasifies the first product and the received feedstock to produce syngas.
US08617423B2 Syngas production method
An H2- and CO-containing synthesis gas is made by separating coke-oven gas from a coke-oven process into hydrogen and a residual gas stream containing hydrocarbons and obtaining a CO-rich synthesis-gas stream from a top gas of a blast furnace. The hydrogen separated from the coke-oven gas is fed into the CO-rich synthesis gas stream obtained from the top gas of a blast furnace to make the synthesis gas, and the hydrocarbon-containing residual gas stream is fed into the blast furnace as feedstock.
US08617420B2 Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal element
The invention provides an optically isotropic liquid crystal composition having: a liquid crystal component comprising a liquid crystal component A consisting of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of compounds having difluoroalkenyl and compounds having alkenyl; and chiral dopants, wherein in the liquid crystal component, the content of compounds having 3 or more ring structures is approximately 15 wt % or more.
US08617419B2 Liquid-crystalline medium and liquid-crystal display
The present invention relates to dielectrically positive, preferably nematic, media comprising one or more polymerisable compounds of formula I in which the parameters have the meaning given in the text, to polymer-stabilized media obtained therefrom, to the use thereof in liquid-crystal displays, and to these displays, in particular PSA-IPS, PSA-FFS and PSA-positive VA displays.
US08617418B2 Conductive film removal agent and conductive film removal method
Disclosed is an agent for removing a conductive film, which contains: an acid having a boiling point of 80° C. or higher, a base having a boiling point of 80° C. or higher, or a compound which generates an acid or a base by external energy in combination with a solvent, a resin, and a leveling agent. Also disclosed is a method for removing a conducting film, which uses the agent for removing a conductive film. The agent for removing a conductive film and the method for removing a conductive film are capable of in-place uniformity removing a desired portion of a conductive film.
US08617417B2 Cleaning composition, method for producing semiconductor device, and cleaning method
Provided are a cleaning composition which is capable of inhibiting the metal of a semiconductor substrate from corrosion, and has an excellent removability of plasma etching residues and/or ashing residues on the semiconductor substrate, a method for producing a semiconductor device, and a cleaning method using the cleaning composition. The cleaning composition for removing plasma etching residues and/or ashing residues formed on a semiconductor substrate, and a preparation method and a cleaning method for a semiconductor device, using the cleaning composition, wherein the cleaning composition includes (Component a) water; (Component b) an amine compound; (Component c) hydroxylamine and/or a salt thereof; (Component d) a quaternary ammonium compound; (Component e) an organic acid; and (Component f) a water-soluble organic solvent; and has a pH of 6 to 9.
US08617414B2 Powders used for producing Ni-Cu-Zn system ferrite ceramics sintered body and method for manufacturing the same
The first invention relates to powders for producing a Ni—Cu—Zn system ferrite ceramics sintered body, comprising ferrite calcined powders and NiO powders, wherein the specific surface area of said ferrite calcined powders is within the range of 4.0 m2/g to 14.0 m2/g, the spinel included in said ferrite calcined powders is such that Ni does not solve, the composition of said spinel is such that Fe2O3 is within the range of 49.0 mol % to 60.0 mol % and the remaining comprises CuO and ZnO, and the ratio of ZnO relative to CuO in mole percent is within the range of 1.0 to 4.0.
US08617410B2 Method and system for wafer inspection
A method for inspecting semiconductor wafers patterned by a photomask includes loading a first wafer and scanning a first image of the first wafer, loading a second wafer and scanning a second image of the second wafer, comparing the first and second images, and classifying a difference detected between the first and second images as a potential defect on the photomask. The potential defect includes a haze defect on the photomask.
US08617409B2 Magnetically levitated gas cell for touchless site-isolated wet processing
A protective chuck is magnetically levitated on a substrate with a gas layer between the bottom surface of the protective chuck and the substrate surface. The gas layer protects a surface region of the substrate against a fluid layer covering the remaining of the substrate surface without contacting the substrate, reducing or eliminating potential damage to the substrate surface. The magnetically levitated protective chuck can enable combinatorial processing of a substrate, providing multiple isolated processing regions on a single substrate with different material and processing conditions.
US08617408B2 Method for manufacturing a magnetic read sensor with narrow track width using amorphous carbon as a hard mask and localized CMP
A method for manufacturing a magnetic read sensor at very narrow track widths. The method uses an amorphous carbon mask layer to pattern the sensor by ion milling, rather than a mask constructed of a material such as photoresist or DURIMIDE® which can bend over during ion milling at very narrow track widths. By using the amorphous carbon layer as the masking layer, the trackwidth can be very small, while avoiding this bending over of the mask that has been experienced with prior art methods. In addition, the track-width can be further reduced by using a reactive ion etching to further reduce the width of the amorphous carbon mask prior to patterning the sensor. The method also allows extraneous portions of the side insulation layer and hard bias layer to be removed above the sensor by a light CMP process.
US08617407B2 Systems and methods for electrical contacts to arrays of vertically aligned nanorods
Systems and methods may provide electrical contacts to an array of substantially vertically aligned nanorods. The nanorod array may be fabricated on top of a conducting layer that serves as a bottom contact to the nanorods. A top metal contact may be applied to a plurality of nanorods of the nanorod array. The contacts may allow I/V (current/voltage) characteristics of the nanorods to be measured.
US08617404B2 Fluid filter apparatus and methods
Particular aspects of the inventive technology may, in embodiments, relate to a fluid filter apparatus that includes a filtered fluid conduit that has a length that is at least three times a characteristic diameter; and a plurality of holes, wherein at least one of said holes has a first shape and engages an end cap during fluid filter operation, and wherein at least one other of said holes has said first shape and passes filtered fluid from outside of said filtered fluid conduit to a conduit interior during fluid filter operation.
US08617403B1 Methods and stabilized compositions for reducing deposits in water systems
A stabilized mixed oxidant solution may be produced by flowing a starting solution (e.g., salt brine, hypochlorous acid, and/or sodium hypochlorite) through a flow-through electrochemical module including first and second passages separated by an ion permeable membrane while electric power is applied between an anode and cathode in electrical communication with the first and second passages, respectively. An initially acidic anolyte solution received from the first (anode) passage is stabilized by elevating pH to yield a stabilized mixed oxidant solution. Methods of using the mixed oxidant solution are further provided.
US08617402B2 Method of raising the pH of acidic bodies of water
The invention relates to a method of raising the pH of a body of water having a pH of less than 4.5 by introducing neutralizing agent, the raising of the pH taking place in at least two stages thus: at pH levels below 4.5, a first neutralizing agent having a final conductivity of not more than 100 μS/cm, and, after attainment of a pH of at least 4.5, a second neutralizing agent, having a final conductivity of more than 100 μS/cm, is introduced into the body of water, the final conductivity of the neutralizing agents being defined as the conductivity of an aqueous suspension or solution of neutralizing agent in solution equilibrium at 25° C., having a neutralizing agent content of 0.015% by weight.
US08617401B2 Apparatus and method for optimizing water purification profile
An apparatus for optimizing water purification profile, has a front processing unit, a booster pump having a water inlet, a rear processing unit, a waterflow control unit, an emission control unit, a control circuit, and a temperature sensing probe. The front processing unit is connected to the water inlet via a pipe. The control circuit corresponds to the emission control unit. The temperature sensing probe senses water temperature. The control circuit is connected to the temperature sensing probe whereby automatically adjusting time of producing purified water in a periodic cycle. The apparatus implements a constant water utilization rate as water temperature changes.
US08617400B2 Water treatment process and plant using ballasted flocculation and settling
A method for treating wastewater using a ballasted flocculation technique includes continuously measuring the concentration of suspended solids, organic matter or other impurities in the water to be treated prior to directing the water to be treated to a flocculation tank. Based on this measurement, the amount of ballast necessary to obtain treated water of a predetermined quality is then calculated. In the flocculation tank, ballast and a flocculating reagent are added to the water to form a water-floc mixture. The water-floc mixture is directed to a settling tank where a sludge-ballast mixture is settled. The sludge-ballast mixture is directed to a mixing tank and then to a separator to separate the ballast from the sludge. The separated ballast is directed to the flocculation tank. The separated sludge is directed to the mixing tank when the level of sludge-ballast mixture in the mixing tank is lower than a predetermined level.
US08617399B2 Dynamic filtration system and associated methods
Dynamic filtration systems and associated methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, for example, a filtration system can include a filter device having a body portion positioned between first and second end portions and a filter media in a cavity defined by the body portion. The filter media can be configured to filter a predetermined substance from a ferrofluid. The filter device can further include a coil at the body portion, a first magnetic plate proximate the first end portion and a second magnetic plate proximate the second end portion. The coil can generate a first magnetic field across the body portion, and the first and second magnetic plates interact to form a second magnetic field across the body portion. The first and second magnetic fields can be configured to drive filtration of the ferrofluid.
US08617397B2 Reverse osmosis filtration devices with RFID tag-powered flow and conductivity meters
The present invention relates to reverse osmosis filtration devices, and more particularly, to membrane filtration devices (10, 11, 12) that have flow meters and fluid conductivity meters powered by RFID tags. Embodiments of the present invention comprise reverse osmosis filters and filtration systems comprising measuring devices, including flow and conductivity meters. The meters of the present invention are preferably located on or within permeate core tubes (16) of filtration devices and systems.
US08617396B2 Non-dispersive process for insoluble oil recovery from aqueous slurries
The development and application of a novel non-polar oil recovery process utilizing a non-dispersive solvent extraction method to coalesce and recover oil from a bio-cellular aqueous slurry is described herein. The process could apply to recovery of algal oil from a lysed or non-lysed algae slurry, recovery of Omega fatty acids from a bio-cellular aqueous feed, recovery of Beta-carotene from a bio-cellular aqueous feed and for the removal from produced water in oil production and similar type applications. The technique of the present invention utilizes a microporous hollow fiber (MHF) membrane contactor. The non-polar oil recovery process described herein can be coupled to a collecting fluid (a non-polar solvent such as heptane, a biodiesel mixture or the previously extracted oil) that is circulated through the hollow fiber membrane. In cases where the biodiesel mixture or the previously extracted oil is used the solvent recovery step (e.g. distillation) can be eliminated.
US08617378B1 Method for focused electric-field imprinting for micron and sub-micron patterns on wavy or planar surfaces
Focused Electric Field Imprinting (FEFI) provides a focused electric field to guide an unplating operation and/or a plating operation to form very fine-pitched metal patterns on a substrate. The process is a variation of the electrochemical unplating process, wherein the process is modified for imprinting range of patterns of around 2000 microns to 20 microns or less in width, and from about 0.1 microns or less to 10 microns or more in depth. Some embodiments curve a proton-exchange membrane whose shape is varied using suction on a backing fluid through a support mask. Other embodiments use a curved electrode. Mask-membrane interaction parameters and process settings vary the feature size, which can generate sub-100-nm features. The feature-generation process is parallelized, and a stepped sequence of such FEFI operations, can generate sub-100-nm lines with sub-100-nm spacing. The described FEFI process is implemented on copper substrate, and also works well on other conductors.
US08617377B2 Method for a metal electrowinning
An electrowinning method of metals through electrolysis of a metal chloride solution uses an anode comprising a substrate comprising titanium or titanium alloy, and a coating layer comprising a plurality of a unit layer, provided on the surface of the substrate. The unit layer comprises the first coating layer comprising a mixture of iridium oxide, ruthenium oxide and titanium oxide and the second coating layer comprising a mixture of platinum and iridium oxide. The first coating layer contacts with the surface of said substrate and an outer coating layer of the unit layer formed on the outermost layer of said coating layer is the second coating layer. The coating layer is formed by thermal decomposition baking, which followed by post-baking at a higher baking temperature.
US08617362B2 Electrode and method of forming the master electrode
An electrode for forming an electrochemical cell with a substrate and a method of forming said electrode. The electrode comprises a carrier provided with an insulating layer which is patterned at a front side. Conducting material in an electrode layer is applied in the cavities of the patterned insulating layer and in contact with the carrier. A connection layer is applied at the backside of the carrier and in contact with the carrier. The periphery of the electrode is covered by the insulating material.
US08617358B2 Pure liquid manufacturing apparatus
Provided is a pure liquid manufacturing apparatus capable of manufacturing pure liquid such as pure water efficiently. Together with a series of units, from a heating unit to a condensation unit, for obtaining pure liquid from vapor, a drain tank unit for storing liquid is disposed, after the liquid discharged from the vaporization unit and the separation unit and new liquid are mixed in advance in the drain tank unit, the mixed liquid is pressurized by a pump unit and supplied to the heating unit. Consequently, the drain tank unit serves as a buffer for pressure, thus making it possible to maintain easily the pressure in the respective units such as the vaporization unit, etc., and reduce load of a vacuum exhaust unit to ensure a reduced pressure state, and dispose the required minimum valves for maintaining the pressure, thereby achieving the simplification of the apparatus structure.
US08617357B2 Twin wire press
A twin wire press for dewatering solid-liquid suspensions, such as pulp suspensions, between top and bottom webs is described herein which includes consecutive primary, secondary and tertiary dewatering sections. The primary dewatering section includes a wedge area. The secondary dewatering section is positioned adjacent to the primary section downstream therefrom and includes grooved rolls in an s-roll configuration. The tertiary dewatering section includes rolls in a scissor-nip configuration. The press rolls in the secondary and tertiary section are all supported onto a frame. Whenever maintenance is to be performed on any one of the grooved rolls or on the press roll assemblies, an overhead crane can for example be used since no frame structure is provided on top thereof.
US08617353B2 Deinking process
The present invention provides a process for deinking printed waste paper comprising the steps of: a) converting the printed waste paper to an aqueous pulp slurry in a pulper, where ink is detached from paper pulp; b) subjecting the pulp slurry to flotation in order to remove hydrophobic contaminants including ink from the pulp slurry, said flotation being carried out in the presence of a deinking chemical additive comprising modified silica obtained by treating hydrophilic silica particles with a hydrophobic organic liquid or modified metal silicate obtained by treating hydrophilic metal silicate particles with a hydrophobic organic liquid or a mixture of such modified silica and modified metal silicate. The present invention increases the yield of the flotation step without affecting the brightness of the flotation accept.
US08617345B2 Method for bonding resin materials containing oxymethylene polymer and structures
Provided are a method of bonding resin materials for bonding a resin material (X) containing an oxymethylene-based polymer (A) and a resin material (Y), and a structure obtained by the bonding method. The method includes preparing as the resin material (Y) a low-melting-point oxymethylene-based polymer (B) having a melting point lower than that of the oxymethylene-based polymer (A) by 5 to 50° C., or preparing as the resin material (Y) the resin material (X) or another resin material, and providing the low-melting-point oxymethylene-based polymer (B) between the resin material (Y) and the resin material (X) and heating resin materials.
US08617344B2 Multistage process for producing hollow plastic articles from half shells
The present invention relates to a multistage process for producing hollow plastic articles, encompassing the following steps: a) producing a tubular plastic parison by means of extrusion or coextrusion; b) cutting open the plastic parison to produce two planar-surface parts; c) molding the planar-surface parts in two mold halves to give half shells, where a removable intermediate frame separates the mold halves from one another at least along the peripheral edges, so that the semifinished products/half shells are not in contact with one another; d) opening the mold halves and removing the intermediate frame; e) closing the mold halves, with the result that the half shells come into contact with one another along a peripheral rim; and f) bonding the half shells to give a hollow article.
US08617341B2 Methods for assembling disposable diaper pants
Methods for assembling diaper pants are disclosed herein. Each diaper pant may include a chassis and two side panels extending from the chassis. The side panels join a first waist region and a second waist region of the chassis. The methods may include the step of transferring the chassis to a rotating drum including a chassis folding member, a first panel folding member and a second panel folding member. The chassis may be folded about a lateral axis by the chassis folding member. The first and second folding members may also move toward each other and radially outward relative an outer surface of the rotating drum to position second end regions of the side panels in contact with a second waist region of the chassis. The second end regions of the side panels may be connected with the second waist region.
US08617340B2 Bonding method and bonded body
A bonding method of bonding two base members together through a bonding film having a fine pattern at low cost, and a bonded body with the bonding film which is formed using the bonding method are provided. The bonding method is a method for forming a bonded body in which a first base member and a second base member are bonded together through a bonding film having a predetermined pattern. The bonding method includes: applying a liquid material containing a silicone material composed of silicone compounds onto a surface of at least one of the first and second base members using a liquid droplet ejecting method, to form a liquid coating having a pattern corresponding to the predetermined pattern on the surface; drying the liquid coating so that it is transformed into the bonding film having the predetermined pattern on the surface of the at least one of the first and second base members; and applying energy to the bonding film so that a bonding property is developed in the vicinity of a surface thereof, to thereby bond the first and second base members together through the bonding film.
US08617339B2 System for fastening parts
A system for fastening two parts at abutting surfaces by forming an in-situ fastener. A device selectively forms variable width through holes on two parts to be fastened, such that the width of each through hole is larger on the first surface than the opposing second surface. Opposing first and second platens selectively urge the second surfaces of the two parts into engagement while the through holes of the two parts are in fluid communication with each other. An injection system includes a flow passage through the first platen to the through hole on the part engaged by the first platen, and a pressurizing mechanism for urging the flowable and hardenable material through the flow passage and into the first and second through holes between the first and second platens under pressure. Pressure is maintained while the flowable and hardenable material hardens within the through holes.
US08617337B2 Partial encapsulation of stents
A method of making an implantable medical device includes extruding a first ePTFE tube and a second ePTFE tube, cutting a plurality of slits in the first ePTFE tube, positioning a radially expandable support layer between the first and second ePTFE tubes so that the slits span portions of the support layer, and laminating the first ePTFE tube to the second ePTFE tube through openings in the support layer.
US08617333B2 Pneumatic tire having built-in sealant layer and preparation thereof
In one embodiment, a pneumatic tire having a built-in sealant layer, before cure, includes an unvulcanized pneumatic tire assembly having an outer circumferential rubber tread and a supporting carcass. A precursor sealant layer is situated between the supporting carcass and an innermost rubber inner liner. The precursor sealant layer includes a non-flowing polyurethane composition that is neither gel-like nor tacky and is self-supporting. The precursor sealant layer, during curing of the unvulcanized pneumatic tire assembly, thermally degrades so as to provide a gel-like and tacky, self-healing polyurethane composition which defines the built-in sealant layer. The resulting tire, with its innermost polyurethane composition, allows for elimination or reduction in blister formation by reducing or elimination the amount of gases typically given off by organoperoxide-butyl based sealant layers, such as when the tire is at its running temperature. Consequently, the thickness of the inner liner may be reduced.
US08617331B2 Method and apparatus to repair flexible fiber-reinforced pipe
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to one or more embodiments of and methods to repair a flexible pipe. A method to repair damaged flexible fiber-reinforced pipe which includes a plurality of helically-wrapped stacks of laminated strips of material is disclosed. The method includes removing a portion of existing stacks from a damage location, applying an adhesive to a surface of replacement stacks, installing the replacement stacks to the damage location, binding the replacement stacks to remaining existing stacks with the applied adhesive, and installing a replacement jacket over the replacement stacks.
US08617330B2 Process and installation for the production of stiff recyclable sandwich-type polymeric panels, without the use of adhesives, and the panel produced
The present invention describe a process and an installation for the production of stiff recyclable sandwich-type polymeric panels, preferably polypropylene-based panels, and the panel obtained, comprising three lines, in one of which a polymeric polypropylene-based foamed core is produced by extrusion (line A); the structural skins are produced in a second line (line B), which skins are formed by a polypropylene-based lamina reinforced with wood fiber, on which lamina there is applied an also polypropylene-based surface coating layer reinforced with glass fibers; in the third line the structural skins produced in line B are adhered by heat and pressure to the foamed core produced in line A. The sandwich panel produced has a thickness between 7 and 40 mm, an overall density of 400-700 kg/m3 and an elastic modulus of 5-10 GPa.
US08617329B2 Method of fabricating organic light emitting display
Provided is a method of fabricating an organic light emitting display. The method includes forming an organic layer pattern on a substrate by irradiating a predetermined region of a donor substrate with a laser beam using a laser irradiation apparatus, the laser irradiation apparatus having a spatial light modulator (SLM). The spatial light modulator is used to form the organic layer pattern using the LITI method. Accordingly, it is possible to adjust various types of incident light to homogeneous and to have a desired profile. Therefore, there is provided a method of fabricating an organic light emitting display which is capable of forming an organic layer pattern without using a mask.
US08617325B2 Actively damped tension member
A system and method for actively damping tension members modulates the natural frequency of shape memory alloys incorporated into tension members, such as suspension ropes or cables. The frequency of the tension member can be modulated by heating the shape memory alloy, such modulation preventing potentially destructive resonance with natural exciting forces.
US08617321B2 Surface treatment method for aluminum alloy and surface treatment method for magnesium alloy
The present invention provides a surface treatment method for an aluminum alloy and a surface treatment method for a magnesium alloy, which enable providing the surface of an aluminum alloy containing magnesium or the surface of a magnesium alloy with sufficient corrosion resistance to corrosive gases, while preventing the surface from scattering magnesium therefrom even when used in a vacuum at a temperature of not less than 300° C. In this method, a carbon fluoride compound is applied over the surface of the aluminum alloy containing magnesium or the surface of the magnesium alloy, followed by heating in an oxygen atmosphere, thereby forming a fluoride passivation film.
US08617318B2 Liquid processing apparatus and liquid processing method
A liquid processing apparatus including: a second housing; a first housing capable of being brought into contact with the second housing; a holding part configured to hold an object to be processed; a rotation driving part configured to rotate the object to be processed held by the holding part; front-side process-liquid supply nozzle configured to supply a process liquid onto a peripheral portion of a front surface of the object to be processed held by the holding part; and a storage part disposed on a side of a rear surface of the object to be processed held by the holding part, the storage part being configured to store the process liquid having been passed through the object to be processed. The respective first housing and the second housing can be moved in one direction, so that the first housing and the second housing can be brought into contact and separated from each other.
US08617315B2 Process for the recovery of water and energy from the processing of sugar cane in sugar and ethanol production mills
A process is proposed for recovery of water in the sugar cane processing in production mills of sugar and alcohol or only alcohol (ethanol). In the process, the thermal energy available in the exhausted steam from the electric energy generation turbines is transferred to the different mixed juice processing phases, with the reuse of the exhausted steam condensates in the boilers and of the other condensates, after using thermal energy, for imbibition, in the juice extraction phase, for cooling in the process, after passing through cooling towers, for other industrial uses and for possible treatment or use in the irrigation out of the productive system in the mill.
US08617314B2 Organic deposition apparatus and method of depositing organic substance using the same
An organic material deposition system and method are provided. The organic material deposition apparatus may include a chamber having a processing space formed therein, a source supply device that generates an organic source and injects and diffuses the organic source into the processing space through a shower head provided in the processing space. The substrate is supported by a stage device that moves the substrate upward and downward within the processing space to adjust a distance between the substrate and the shower head. A pumping port provided at an upper positioned at an upper portion of the processing space provides a vacuum exhaust path that directs flow through the processing space toward the stage device. This allows an organic thin film with a uniform thickness to be deposited using an apparatus with a relatively simple configuration.
US08617311B2 Silicon single crystal wafer for IGBT and method for manufacturing silicon single crystal wafer for IGBT
In this silicon single crystal wafer for IGBT, COP defects and dislocation clusters are eliminated from the entire region in the radial direction of the crystal, the interstitial oxygen concentration is 8.5×1017 atoms/cm3 or less, and variation in resistivity within the wafer surface is 5% or less. This method for manufacturing a silicon single crystal wafer for IGBT includes introducing a hydrogen atom-containing substance into an atmospheric gas at a hydrogen gas equivalent partial pressure of 40 to 400 Pa, and growing a single crystal having an interstitial oxygen concentration of 8.5×1017 atoms/cm3 or less at a silicon single crystal pulling speed enabling pulling of a silicon single crystal free of grown-in defects. The pulled silicon single crystal is irradiated with neutrons so as to dope with phosphorous; or an n-type dopant is added to the silicon melt; or phosphorous is added to the silicon melt so that the phosphorous concentration in the silicon single crystal is 2.9×1013 to 2.9×1015 atoms/cm3 and a p-type dopant having a segregation coefficient smaller than that of the phosphorous is added to the silicon melt so that the concentration in the silicon single crystals is 1×1013 to 1×1015 atoms/cm3 corresponding to the segregation coefficient thereof.
US08617305B2 Metal complexes for metal-containing film deposition
Novel families of tri-valent metal complexes including scandium, yttrium, lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, lutetium, aluminum, gallium, indium, manganese, antimony, bismuth; and of divalent metal complexes including magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, manganese, cobalt, iron, nickel, ruthenium, copper, zinc, cadium are disclosed. These metal complexes can be used as precursors to deposit metal or metal oxide films in semi-conductor industries.
US08617304B2 Bio-based coating
A bio-based coating for a building automatically transmits or reflects heat gain from infrared sunlight. The coating is composed of bio-based polymerized oil and a catalyst that is also a thermochromic material. The catalyst reduces the temperature for polymerization of the oil to create a suspension that forms a hardened mixture when cooled below about 100 degrees Centigrade. The thermochromic properties of the catalyst are operable to switch the hardened mixture from transparent to reflective of infrared light when the temperature rises above a switching temperature in an approximate range of 18 degrees Centigrade to 35 degrees Centigrade. The method of using the coating involves spraying a hot bio-based coating on the roof surface and allowing it to cool. The method of making involves heating the suspension to a reaction temperature, holding at the reaction temperature, and, introducing an air flow through the mixture at the reaction temperature.
US08617303B2 Crosslinking systems for hydroxyl polymers
Crosslinking systems suitable for use in a polymer melt composition wherein the polymer melt composition comprises a hydroxyl polymer; polymeric structures made from such polymer melt compositions; and processes/methods related thereto are provided.
US08617301B2 Compositions and methods for forming and depositing metal films on semiconductor substrates using supercritical solvents
Compositions and methods for depositing elemental metal M(0) films on semiconductor substrates are disclosed. One of the disclosed methods comprises: heating the semiconductor substrate to obtain a heated semiconductor substrate; exposing the heated semiconductor substrate to a composition containing a metal precursor, an excess amount of neutral labile ligands, and a supercritical solvent; exposing the metal precursor to a reducing agent and/or thermal energy at or near the heated semiconductor substrate; reducing the metal precursor to the elemental metal M(0) by using the reducing agent and/or the thermal energy; and depositing the elemental metal M(0) film while minimizing formation of metal oxides.
US08617300B2 Media for photocatalytic filter
The invention relates to a filtering media having a photocatalytic action which has a thickness of at least 2 mm, which is homogeneous and which is devoid of orifice apparent to the naked eye, comprising a felt of inorganic fibers, the fibers of which are coated with a coating comprising a catalyst having a photocatalytic action, said felt exhibiting a weight per unit area of between 30 and 80 g/m2, said coating representing 5 to 80% of the weight of said media, said media exhibiting a gas pressure drop of less than 150 Pa at 1 m/s in unpleated condition. This media is intended to be incorporated in a purifier of gas, such as air, furthermore comprising a system for illuminating said media with UV radiation. The media exhibits an excellent purification efficiency and a very low pressure drop.
US08617296B2 Filling pistol and method for filling an object essentially with nitrogen
A filling pistol for the filling under pressure of an object essentially with nitrogen. The filling pistol has a housing with an inlet opening connectable to an air source, such as an air compressor, to supply air to the pistol. A separation device is incorporated downstream of and connected to the inlet opening to obtain essentially nitrogen-rich gas. An outlet opening is connected to the separation device and is connectable to the object to supply nitrogen-rich air from the filling pistol to the object. The separation device is provided between the air inlet and the nitrogen outlet of an exchangeable separation cartridge. An operating element sets the filling pistol to an operating condition to fill the object with nitrogen-rich air.
US08617290B2 Method for manufacturing Fe—Si alloy powders
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a Fe—Si alloy powder. A method for manufacturing a Fe—Si alloy powder includes: providing a mixture of an Al2O3 powder, an active agent powder, a Si powder, and a Fe powder; heating the mixture with a temperature of 700° C. to 1200° C. in the hydrogen atomosphere; magnetically separating a Fe-containing material from the mixture; and separating a Fe—Si alloy powder by soaking the Fe-containing material in an alkali solution. In the heating of the mixture, the Si powder is deposited on the surface of the Fe powder and diffused into the Fe powder.
US08617282B2 Method of preparing keratin fertilizer with an additive of humic acids in colloid form and keratin fertilizer with humic acids additive
A method of preparing a fertilizer by feather processing inserts a weighed feather into a reaction container, and then adds caustic potash. Water is then added, and feather disintegration occurs. Phosphoric acid is poured into the mixture, and then the pH is measured—and if necessary improved with phosphoric acid or caustic potash. Epsom salt, vitriol of iron, boric acid, manganic sulphate, zinc sulphate, cuprous sulphate, ammonium molybdate and calcium nitrate are mixed in, and the mixture is partitioned into transportation containers depending on the weight of caustic potash included in the mixture using a drain pump through appropriate filter under constant stirring. The mixture is diluted with water, and the whole mass is perfectly mixed. Humic acids are then mixed into the diluted mixture to form a final keratin fertilizer with humic acid additive in colloid form.
US08617280B2 Compositions and methods for buffered growing media
Techniques and tools reduce pH drift downward in growth media triggered by plant growth or ammoniated fertilizers. Methods and compositions provide growing media with buffering potential to prevent pH drifts in the growing media. A compost composition has a buffering potential against pH changes. A carbonate index test provides information on a buffering potential of a compost composition. A growing medium includes a compost composition with a buffering potential to provide a stable pH that is conducive to plant growth in the growing medium.
US08617274B2 Pulsed electrical field assisted or spark plasma sintered polycrystalline ultra hard material and thermally stable ultra hard material cutting elements and compacts and methods of forming the same
The present invention relates to ultra-hard cutting elements, and in particular cutting elements or compacts formed by a pulsed electrical field assisted HPHT sintering process or a spark plasma HPHT sintering process. In an embodiment, a method of forming a polycrystalline ultra-hard material includes providing a mixture of ultra-hard particles, placing the mixture of ultra-hard particles into an enclosure, placing the enclosure into a press cell assembly having a heater, applying a repeated high-energy pulse of direct current to the heater to heat the ultra-hard particles, and pressing the enclosure at sufficient pressure to form a polycrystalline ultra-hard material.
US08617273B2 Bonded abrasive article and method of forming
An abrasive article having an abrasive body including abrasive grains contained within a bond material, wherein the abrasive grains comprise microcrystalline alumina, and wherein the bond material includes less than about 1.0 mol % phosphorous oxide (P2O5), and a ratio measured in mol % between a total content of sodium oxide (Na2O) and a total content of potassium oxide (K2O) defined by [K2O/Na2O] having a value greater than about 0.5.
US08617271B2 Method of retrofitting a coal gasifier
A coal gasifier is retrofitted to achieve multiple advantages such as reduced oxygen consumption, reduced CO2 and NOx emissions, better H:C ratio, better carbon conversion etc. This is achieved by dividing the coal into at least two zones and modifying the gasifier and operating it as described. The coal is injected into a first zone, configured to devolatilize a substantial portion of the injected coal to produce coal char and volatiles. The operation is tuned to substantially consume the oxidant injected in the first zone. A low-calorific-value, high oxidant feedstock is injected in second zone of the gasifier. The devolatilization of the low-calorific-value, high oxidant content feedstock provides the oxygen containing compounds which gasify at least a portion of the coal char generated in the first zone.
US08617268B2 Process and equipment for producing synthesis gas from biomass
An equipment for carrying out a process for producing synthesis gas (S) from biomass, includes a storage unit (1) for biomass and means (3; 5, 6) to carry out pyrolysis and combustion of the biomass. The equipment further includes first or second heat exchanging means (7, 9; 15) to receive outgoing gases (CO2, N2 and H2O) from the means (3; 5, 6) to carry out pyrolysis and combustion of the biomass, a gas purification unit (10) to receive the outgoing gases (CO2, N2 and H2O) that are cooled in the first or second heat exchanging means (7, 9; 15), means (11) to supply a process gas (P) from the gas purification unit (10) to the first heat exchanging means (7, 9), and a reduction shaft (12) to carry out reduction of the process gas (P) discharged from the first heat exchanging means (7, 9).
US08617267B2 Reformer with high durability
A reformer having high durability and including a heating unit and a reforming unit. The heating unit has a hollow cylindrical shape or polygonal shape and a first combustor and a second combustor that receives and oxidizes heating unit fuel and anode off gas (AOG) at both ends thereof. The reforming unit includes a first reforming portion formed to surround the exterior of the heating unit, a second reforming portion formed to surround the exterior of the first reforming portion and a flow path portion connecting the first reforming portion and the second reforming portion to provide fluid communication therebetween. The flow path portion includes a pre-deformed portion extending along a direction substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the heating unit.
US08617266B2 Hydrogen generating apparatus using steam reforming reaction
Disclosed herein is a hydrogen generating apparatus for producing hydrogen from a hydrocarbon feed through a steam reforming reaction, in which a pressure drop device is installed between a feed distributor and each of reactor tubes in order to prevent the feed from being unevenly distributed to the reactor tubes. In the hydrogen generating apparatus, the pressure drop device for artificially dropping the supply pressure of the feed is installed between the feed distributor and each of the reactor tubes which are concentrically arranged with respect to a heat source. Accordingly, if the feed is unevenly distributed, the pressure drop device can suppress an abnormal temperature rise in some of the reactor tubes to induce the smooth production of hydrogen and to greatly improve the operational safety of the hydrogen generating apparatus.
US08617264B2 Sorbent containing engineered fuel feed stock
Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, methods of making the fuel feed stocks, methods of producing energy from the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles and contain a sorbent. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels. In addition, one or more sorbents can be added to the feed stocks in order to reduce the amount of a variety of pollutants present in traditional fuel and feed stocks, including, but not limited, sulfur and chlorine. Further, these feed stocks with added sorbent can mitigate corrosion, improve fuel conversion, extend power generating plant lifetime, reduce ash slagging, and reduced operating temperature.
US08617263B2 Method for preparing fuel element for smoking article
The invention provides a method for making a fuel element for a smoking article including the steps of mixing a metal-containing catalyst precursor with a filler material or graphite or a combination thereof to form a pre-treated fuel element component; optionally calcining the pre-treated fuel element component in order to convert the catalyst precursor to a catalytic metal compound; after the optional calcining step, combining the pre-treated fuel element component with a carbonaceous material and a binder to produce a fuel element composition; and forming the fuel element composition into a fuel element adapted for use in a smoking article. Examples of metal-containing catalyst precursors include iron nitrate, copper nitrate, cerium nitrate, cerium ammonium nitrate, manganese nitrate, magnesium nitrate, and zinc nitrate. Fuel elements treated according to the invention, and smoking articles including such fuel elements, are also provided.
US08617260B2 Multi-purpose renewable fuel for isolating contaminants and storing energy
Techniques, systems, apparatus and material are disclosed for generating multi-purpose H2-dense fuel for isolating contaminants and storing energy. In one aspect, a method of producing a renewable multi-purpose biomaterial for isolating a hazardous contaminant from an environment and storing energy includes dissociating biomass waste using a thermochemical reaction to produce at least one of hydrocarbon and alcohol by applying waste heat recovered from an external heat source. The method includes dissociating the at least one of hydrocarbon and alcohol to generate carbon and hydrogen. Carbon dioxide emitted from an industrial process is harvested and reacted with the hydrogen to generate the hydrogen-dense fuel. A hazardous contaminant is dissolved in the hydrogen-dense fuel operating as a solvent to generate a liquid mixture that isolates the hazardous contaminant from the environment. The hazardous contaminant includes at least one of a carbon donor and a hydrogen donor.
US08617255B2 Bleaching composition comprising magnesium salt
The present invention relates to bleaching composition for keratin fibers, especially human hair, comprising at least one compound with bleaching and/or highlighting effect and a magnesium salt. Further object of the present invention is the use of at least one magnesium salt in a bleaching and/or highlighting composition for keratin fibers, especially for human hair, comprising at least one compound with bleaching and/or highlighting effect for preventing temperature increase going above 50° C., preferably above 45° C. and more preferably above 40° C. in a period of at least 60 min after mixing water free bleaching and/or highlighting composition and oxidizing lotion.
US08617247B2 Implant for intervertebral space
An implant for an intervertebral space with a shaped body. The implant makes possible rotation of the implant about the longitudinal axis of the body in one direction and prevents such rotation in the opposite direction.
US08617240B2 Moldable cushion for implants
Custom moldable cushions for covering medical implants fastened to a bone are provided. Such cushions inhibit irritation of the surrounding soft tissue by covering the bone-implant interface and by reducing friction caused by movement of soft tissue adjacent the implant. Such cushions may also be employed to spread and absorb forces reducing patient discomfort and risk of injury and infection associated with such implants.
US08617239B2 Catheter pump
The invention refers to a catheter pump to be positioned in the ascending aorta (11) near the aortic valve (10) of a human being, comprising an elongated sleeve 6 with a drive cable (5) extending through the sleeve and connectable at its proximal end to an external drive source and a drive rotor near the distal end of the drive cable (5) mounted on a drive shaft (4) being connected with the drive cable (5), wherein the drive rotor consist of a propeller (3) being enclosed in a cage (2) and wherein the propeller (3) and the cage (2) are foldable from an insertion position close to the drive shaft (4) to an expanded working position, characterized by means (7, 7a, 2a, 19) for anchoring the drive rotor (3) in the ascending aorta (11) near the aortic valve (10) after insertion. The invention also refers to a method to position the pumping means of a catheter pump in the ascending aorta (11) just above the aortic valve (10).
US08617237B2 Tubular supporting prosthesis with a heart valve, in particular for aortic valve replacement
The invention relates to a tubular supporting prosthesis, comprising two terminal regions relative to the longitudinal supporting prosthesis axis and a center region disposed between the two terminal regions, wherein every terminal region is provided with a mesh structure made of at least two structural rings, which are connected to each other via connecting members and are disposed point-symmetrically about the longitudinal supporting prosthesis axis. The center region is formed by elongated connecting members, which are connected to the structural rings respectively disposed adjacent to the center of the longitudinal supporting prosthesis axis. An aortic valve, which is produced by means of tissue engineering, is fastened and/or integrated in the center region.
US08617236B2 Medical devices and delivery systems for delivering medical devices
Medical devices and delivery systems for delivering medical devices to a target location within a subject. In some embodiments the medical devices can be locked in a fully deployed and locked configuration. In some embodiments the delivery systems are configured with a single actuator to control the movement of multiple components of the delivery system. In some embodiments the actuator controls the independent and dependent movement of multiple components of the delivery system.
US08617235B2 Axially nested slide and lock expandable device
The invention relates generally to expandable medical implants for maintaining support of a body lumen and, in particular, to an axially nested, diametrically expandable, slide and lock vascular device for enlarging an occluded portion of a vessel. The axially nested vascular device desirably achieves both competitive crossing profiles while maintaining other key features, such as, for example, radial strength and luminal patency. The collapsed profile can also be made very thin without compromising radial strength. Thus, the vascular device can advantageously be deployed in small and difficult to reach areas or vessels. The axial nesting substantially eliminates radial overlap between mating structural elements thereby desirably allowing for a low, uniform profile.
US08617231B2 Dual guidewire exchange catheter system
A dual guidewire exchange catheter system and methods are provided herein. The dual guidewire exchange catheter system includes two lumens for receiving therethrough a main vessel guidewire and a branch vessel guidewire, respectively. The catheter includes an exit port for each guidewire, at least one of which is a shorter distance from the distal end of the catheter system than the distance from the distal end to the proximal end of the catheter. This allows for management of relatively short guidewire lengths outside the body.
US08617230B2 Altering temperature in a mammalian body
The present application relates to systems and methods for altering temperature in a mammalian body. Optionally, the systems and methods can be used to lower or raise core body temperature of a mammalian subject. Optionally, the systems and methods can be used to lower or raise the temperature of glabrous skin of a mammalian subject.
US08617224B2 Anterior lumbar plate and method
A plate of biocompatible material is provided having curvature in two planes such that it conforms to the curvature of the L5 vertebral body and to the patient's lordotic curve. Holes are provided receiving screws for anchorage in the vertebral body and sacrum. A flange or foot portion on the plate provides a wider base end area for support in the L5-S1 interspace. The foot portion is also arranged for appropriate entry angle of screws into the sacrum such as to improve anchorage in the sacrum. Anti-backout and low profile features are incorporated. The anterior lumbar plate is situated to maintain the anterior interbody bone graft in compression by resisting tensile forces during extension.
US08617221B2 Apparatus and methods for bone fracture fixation
Apparatus and methods to facilitate fixation of a fracture are disclosed. These apparatus include a bone plate for the fixation of a fractured bone having a plurality of fastener openings so that the bone plate may be secured by a plurality of fasteners across a reduced fracture to fixate a reduced fracture. The bone plate is configured to flex in situ to conform to the surface of the bone while providing sufficient stiffness in the plane of the device to resist forces and moments in the plane. Methods of use of the present invention include fastening the bone plate to a first side of the fracture, flexing portions of the bone plate to bias against the bone surface on the second side of the fracture, fastening the portions of the bone plate so biased to the second side of the fracture, thereby fixating the fracture by fastening the bone plate to the second side of the fracture.
US08617218B2 Bone anchor extenders
In one form, systems and methods for positioning a connecting member adjacent the spinal column include at least one anchor that is engageable to bony structure and has a receiver for receiving the connecting member. A pair of elongated members is engaged to the receiver and defines a pathway that extends proximally from the receiver. The connecting member is movable along the elongated members to the receiver of the bone anchor. The elongated members are removable from the receiver of the bone anchor after the connecting member is positioned in the receiver to provide a low profile anchor and connecting member assembly when finally implanted in the patient. However, other embodiments, forms and applications are also envisioned.
US08617215B2 Connecting element and system for flexible spinal stabilization
An elongated connecting element and system for dynamic spinal stabilization is disclosed. The connecting element and system provides for resistance to shear forces applied to the connecting element as well as provides for rotational stability of a resilient intermediate element disposed between two end members.
US08617213B2 Low profile transverse connector
Provided is a novel low profile transverse connector system having a first and second spinal rod connection member disposed at opposing ends of an elongated cross connection device, each connection member having a distal end configured to be capable of connecting to a spinal rod and a proximal end having a multidirectional articulation joint at which a centrally disposed cross connecting assembly is provided to attach the first and second connection members to each other, the first and second spinal rod connection members each defining two opposing compression slots that serve to facilitate a secure connection to spinal rods and to the cross connecting assembly by the tightening of only one locking screw. Also provided is a method of stabilizing vertebrae using the disclosed system.
US08617212B2 Inter-vertebral support kit including main insert jack and dual secondary auxiliary support jacks located between succeeding transverse processes
An insert for establishing a desired spacing between a pair of succeeding vertebrae and having a body including an extending end for supporting a location associated with a first selected lumbar vertebrae. An opposite extending end supports a spaced apart and opposing location associated with a second successively positioned lumbar vertebrae. Upon pre-positioning the body in an open space established between the vertebrae, an actuating input causes the first extending end to displace outwardly relative to the second end and into contacting support with the vertebrae.
US08617208B2 Method of using ultrasonic vibration to secure body tissue with fastening element
A suture and a suture retainer are positioned relative to body tissue. Ultrasonic vibratory energy is utilized to heat the suture retainer and effect a bonding of portions of the suture retainer to each other and/or to the suture. Portions of the body tissue may be pressed into linear apposition with each other and held in place by cooperation between the suture and the suture retainer. The suture retainer may include one or more portions between which the suture extends. The suture retainer may include sections which have surface areas which are bonded together. If desired, the suture may be wrapped around one of the sections of the suture retainer. The suture retainer may be formed with a recess in which the suture is received. If desired, the suture retainer may be omitted and the sections of the suture bonded to each other.
US08617205B2 Closure device
A closure device for closing a bodily passageway is provided. The device includes first and second frames and first and second crossbars. A sheet of biocompatible material is attached to one or more of the frames. The first crossbar extends across the first frame and has terminal crossbar ends connectively linked to separate sites on the first frame; the second crossbar is similarly linked to the second frame. The crossbars are attached to each other at a connection point, and they are each configured to bend away from the connection point when the closure device is deployed to close a bodily passageway. A method of making the closure device is provided, as well as a method for closing a bodily passageway using such a device. Further, a closure device assembly is provided, including a closure device, a delivery catheter housing, and a delivery release member.
US08617204B2 Apparatus and methods for sealing a vascular puncture
An apparatus for sealing a puncture through tissue to a vessel includes an elongate occlusion member including an expandable member, a cartridge carried on the occlusion member, and a sealant carried within the cartridge. The cartridge includes an outer member and a pusher member within the outer member. The sealant is disposed within the outer member adjacent the expandable member distal to the pusher member. During use, the occlusion member is introduced into a puncture until the expandable member and the sealant extend from the puncture into the vessel. The expandable member is expanded, and withdrawn until the expanded expandable member contacts the vessel wall, thereby withdrawing the sealant back into the puncture. The outer member is withdrawn to expose the sealant within the puncture, while the pusher member prevents removal of the sealant, and then the cartridge, occlusion member, and pusher member are successively removed.
US08617201B2 Vascular device for emboli, thrombus and foreign body removal and methods of use
Apparatus and methods are provided for use in filtering emboli from a vessel and/or performing thrombectomy and embolectomy, wherein a vascular device comprises one or more support hoops connected near a distal end of a guide wire, each support hoop having an articulation region, and a blood permeable sac affixed to the support hoop or hoops to form a mouth of the blood permeable sac. The mouth of the sac closes when the apparatus is collapsed for removal to prevent material from escaping from the sac.
US08617200B2 Multi-layer filtration device
A filter device assembly and a method of using such a device to capture and remove embolic material from a body lumen or blood vessel are provided. The filter device assembly generally includes a structure having a collapsed state and an expanded state with first, second, and optionally N additional filter members circumferentially attached thereto. Each filter member forms an annulus chamber with the first filter member having porosity P1; the second filter member circumferentially having porosity P2; and the N additional filter members each having porosity [P3 . . . P(2+N)]. The magnitude of the porosity for the first, second, and N additional filter members follows the relationship P1>[P3> . . . >P(2+N)]>P2. The first, second, and N additional filter portions are configured in the expanded state to allow blood to flow there through and to capture emboli in the annulus chambers.
US08617199B2 Thin film nasal dilator with delivery system
The present invention discloses a nasal dilator comprising at least one breathable layer of adhesive-coated high MVTR layer, such as a polyurethane film, one or more adhesive-coated high modulus “spring” elements for dilating the nasal passages by applying a tension force to the skin, and a carrier delivery system. The carrier delivery system comprises a separation line or split through the carrier to allow for easy delivery of the nasal dilator. The carrier aids in the handling and delivery of the thin adhesive-coated high MVTR layer.
US08617196B2 Method and apparatus for performing needle guided interventions
An apparatus and method for performing needle guided interventions and especially needle guided dilations of tissue to create a therapeutic conduit between two luminal organs or structures. The device is particularly useful for creation of an artificial lumen between two hollow body organs using the working lumen of an endoscope.
US08617195B2 Lancing device
A lancing mechanism is adapted to move between a resting, cocking and a puncture position. The lancing mechanism comprises a lancet holder adapted to receive a lancet, a shaft attached to the lancet holder, at least one drive spring and at least one damping spring. The drive spring surrounds at least a portion of the shaft and drives the lancing mechanism from the cocking position to the puncture position. The damping spring moves the lancing mechanism from the puncture position to the resting position. The drive spring is located at least partially within the damping spring.
US08617190B2 Device for engaging tissue having a preexisting opening
A system for performing an end-to-side vascular anastomosis, including an anastomosis device, an application instrument and methods for performing a vascular anastomosis. The system is applicable for performing an anastomosis between a vascular graft and the ascending aorta in coronary artery bypass surgery, particularly in port-access CABG surgery. A first aspect of the invention includes a vascular anastomosis staple. A first configuration has two parts: an anchor member, forming the attachment with the target vessel wall and a coupling member, forming the attachment with the bypass graft vessel. The anastomosis is completed by inserting the coupling member, with the graft vessel attached, into the anchor member. A second configuration combines the functions of the anchor member and the coupling member into a one-piece anastomosis staple. A second aspect of the invention includes an anastomotic fitting, having an inner flange over which the graft vessel is everted and an outer flange which contacts the exterior surface of the target vessel. A tailored amount of compression applied by the inner and outer flanges grips the target vessel wall and creates a leak-proof seal between the graft vessel and the target vessel. A third aspect of the invention has a flange to which the graft vessel attaches, by everting the graft vessel over the flange, and a plurality of staple-like members which attach the flange and the everted end of the graft vessel to the wall of the target vessel to form the anastomosis.
US08617188B2 Surgical mesh, mesh introducing and placing devices and methods
A pre-rolled surgical mesh which allows its insertion to the abdominal cavity and having a comfortable lead and spread to a proper location. The pre-rolled mesh is double rolled from two opposite directions one toward the other. There is a device that holds, leads, releases and spreads the mesh in its proper location, related to the Hernia defect, and includes an element holds the double-rolled mesh, and allows its releasing; another element allows the spreading of the double-rolled mesh; additional element allows the leading and locating of the double-rolled mesh. A second shape assumed when spreading the mesh, as the center of the mesh matches the desired location, while the elements, which held and spread each side of the double rolled mesh had been released.
US08617181B2 Methods for preparing a skin graft
The present invention generally relates to methods for preparing a skin graft. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve harvesting a plurality of skin grafts from a subject, applying the grafts to a first substrate, stretching the first substrate, and transferring the grafts from the first substrate to at least a second substrate for application to a patient recipient site.
US08617179B2 Connection mechanism for a uterine mobilizer
A new connecting mechanism for the Valtchev® uterine mobilizer, model VUM-6 having a straight tube with a locking wheel attached close to one end of the tube pivotally mounted in a housing of the space bar and maintained by a spring loaded pin in realizable way. The another end of the tube is attached to a piston pivotally mounted and maintained within a hole in the head of the uterine mobilizer via the tube engaging a connecting slot in the head, and adapted to be disassembled by first releasing the locking wheel of the tube from the space bar and second, by rotating the tube in a prescribed degree which will align the tube with the vertical slot allowing removal of the tube with attached piston from the head. The distal end of a rod is bended 15°, which allows retroversion of the head at the same degree.
US08617172B2 Joint arthroplasty devices and surgical tools
Disclosed herein are methods, compositions and tools for repairing articular surfaces repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. The articular surface repairs are customizable or highly selectable by patient and geared toward providing optimal fit and function. The surgical tools are designed to be customizable or highly selectable by patient to increase the speed, accuracy and simplicity of performing total or partial arthroplasty.