Document Document Title
US07821502B2 Two-dimensional position sensor
A capacitive position sensor for determining the position of an object along first and second directions is described. The sensor comprises a substrate having an arrangement of electrodes mounted on a single surface thereof. The electrodes are arranged so as to define an array of sensing cells arranged in columns and rows to form a sensing area. Each of the sensing cell including a column sensing electrode and a row sensing electrode with the column sensing electrodes of sensing cells in the same column being electrically coupled together and the row sensing electrodes of sensing cells in the same row also being electrically coupled together. Row sensing electrodes of sensing cells at opposing ends of at least one of the rows are connected together by an electrical connection made outside of the sensing area so that there is no requirement for electrical connections to cross within the sensing area, thus providing a capacitive position sensor having a sensing area with electrodes on only one side of a substrate.
US07821501B2 Touch screen driver and methods for use therewith
A touch screen driver includes a conditioner module for conditioning a first input/output port of a touch screen. The conditioner module includes a precharge module for charging the first input/output port to a precharge voltage in response to a precharge signal, and a pull-up module for maintaining the precharge voltage for detecting a touch event.
US07821490B2 System and method for adjusting a backlight level for a display on an electronic device
The invention provides a system and method for calculating a backlight level for an image being displayed on an electronic device. The system comprises: a backlight adjustment module to calculate an intensity value of an image for display on the electronic device; a display for displaying the image; and a backlight system to provide a backlight for the display. The backlight system is responsive to control signals generated by the backlight adjustment module. In the system, the intensity value represents an average intensity of the image.
US07821489B2 Data processing apparatus
A data processing apparatus has a first processing unit for processing an input data, a second processing unit responsive to the data processed by the first processing unit for executing a processing dependent on the data and producing a display data, and a display unit having a display drive unit and a display device for displaying the display data. The second processing unit is selectively inactivated and activated under control of the first processing unit to reduce power consumption in the second processing unit. The display drive unit is also selectively inactivated and activated under control of the first processing unit to reduce power consumption in the display unit. The display device has a memory function that maintains its display image even when supply of a display drive signal from the display drive unit is stopped, so that a latest image before inactivation of the second processing unit and/or the display drive unit for power consumption reduction is visible by an operator during the inactivated and low power consumption state of the apparatus.
US07821488B2 Temperature-dependent overdrive circuit for LCD panel and method of implementing the same
A circuit for overdriving an LCD panel according to an image data and a temperature, and the corresponding are disclosed. The circuit includes: a memory for storing a previous image data; a plurality of LUTs, each coupled to receive the previous image data from the memory and a present image data, for storing overdrive values; a first temperature sensor, for sensing the temperature of a first area of the LCD panel to generate a first temperature data; a control circuit, for generating a selection signal and a temperature correction coefficient according to the first temperature data; a selection circuit, coupled to the plurality of LUTs, for selecting one LUT from the plurality of LUTs according to the selection signal and outputting the overdrive value of the selected LUT; and an overdrive processor, for generating adjusted image data according to the overdrive value and the temperature correction coefficient.
US07821485B2 Source driver output circuit of thin film transistor liquid crystal display
A source driver output circuit of a thin film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) includes first through n-th voltage generators, first through n-th switching portions, first through n-th sub switching portions, and a switching circuit. The voltage generators receive first through n-th corresponding input voltages and generate first through n-th sub input voltages. The switching portions generate the sub input voltages as first through n-th corresponding output voltages when activated, or cut off the sub input voltages when deactivated. The sub switching portions connect predetermined share lines to the output voltages when activated, or cut off the predetermined share lines when deactivated. The switching circuit maintains each of the share line voltages equally at an intermediate voltage level that is between the share line voltages. Therefore, the slew rate of a signal input to the panel from the source driver can be improved, and current consumption in the source driver can be reduced.
US07821483B2 Interface circuit for data transmission and method thereof
An interface circuit for data transmission and the method thereof is described. The interface circuit includes a transmitter providing data through first data signals during the data periods corresponding to rising and falling edges of a clock signal, a transition detection unit selectively asserting a detection signal in response to the number of the first data signals having transitions between every two adjacent data periods, a transition reduction unit generating second data signals by outputting the inverted and non-inverted first data signals respectively when the detection signal is asserted and de-asserted, and a receiver restoring the data from the second data signals and the detection signal.
US07821480B2 Charge transfer circuit and method for an LCD screen
A charge transfer circuit of a liquid crystal display includes at least one inductive element connectable between first and second common terminals, to a first and to a second groups of lines of the display, respectively.
US07821479B2 Rolling light emitting diode screen device
A rolling light emitting diode screen device includes a plurality of equilong rigid supporting stripes, a plurality of pixel units which are disposed with a equal interval in a straight line on the rigid supporting stripes, electric signal lines and power lines connected to respective pixel units, and a control device. It is characterized that it further includes a flexible frame, and the plurality of rigid supporting stripes are aligned at both ends, and are disposed parallel with an equal interval on the flexible frame, so that a pixel matrix plane is formed on the rigid supporting stripes. The flexible frame engages the rigid supporting strips and the pixel units thereon to roll around an axis parallel to the axis of the rigid supporting stripes to form a reel. The rolling LED screen device of the invention is easy to be stored, transported and mounted, wirings thereof are easy to be disposed, not easy to be damaged, and easy to repair.
US07821474B2 Rendering luminance levels of a high dynamic range display
Systems, methods, and computer software for use in driving a high dynamic range display involve generating table entries of luminance levels for a high dynamic range display and ordering the table according to the luminance levels. If the table includes multiple entries with equal values for a particular luminance level, one of the multiple entries is designated as corresponding to the luminance level.
US07821472B2 Method and system for FM transmit and FM receive using a transformer as a duplexer
Aspects of a method and system for FM transmit and FM receive using a transformer as a duplexer may include communicating radio frequency signals via an antenna coupled to primary windings of a radio frequency transformer, wherein secondary windings of the radio frequency transformer may be utilized for receiving and/or transmitting the communicated radio frequency signals. The receiving and transmitting may be operated in time division duplex mode or simultaneously. A number of windings between a pair of connector terminals of the secondary windings used for transmitting of the radio frequency signals may be less than or equal to a number of windings of the primary windings. A number of windings between a pair of connector terminals of the secondary windings used for receiving of the radio frequency signals may be greater than or equal to a number of windings of the primary windings.
US07821470B2 Antenna arrangement
An antenna for a wireless communication may include a ground plane provided on a carrying structure, a feed element, and a radiating element coupled to the feed element, the radiating element being substantially parallel to and vertically displaced from the ground plane by the feed element and a shortening element. The antenna may also include a parasitic element provided directly on the carrying structure as part of the carrying structure ground layer.
US07821467B2 Tunable antenna module with frequency correction circuit and manufacturing method thereof
A tunable antenna module with frequency correction circuit having an antenna element, a variable capacity means connected to the antenna element, and a frequency control source that generates a controlling voltage for varying the capacity of the variable capacity means to vary a tuning frequency according to the frequency of radio wave received by the antenna element. The module further has a voltage divider circuit comprised of resisters for dividing the controlling voltage, and connected between the frequency control source and the variable capacity means. The tuning frequency is corrected by the voltage divider circuit.
US07821465B2 Multiservice antenna system assembly
This invention relates generally to a multiservice antenna system assembly. The multiservice antenna system assembly may include one antenna that is fastened by means of a support, or at least two antennas that are grouped together by means of a support. The support may, for example, be a plastic packing. This invention is particularly useful when the antenna assembly is located in automobile rear-view mirrors and more particularly in exterior rear-view mirrors.
US07821462B1 Compact, dual-polar broadband monopole
A dual-polarized radiating element is formed from two orthogonally oriented monopole radiators disposed on a dielectric substrate. An RF image plane placed orthogonally to the two monopole radiators presents a balanced excitation for element impedance optimization that allows for operation over multiple octave bandwidths with a physically compact device. The dual-polarized radiating element provides a broad field-of-view (FOV) as a stand alone radiator and may be used in a phased array.
US07821461B2 Antenna
An antenna includes a base plate, a grounding component, a feed-in conductor, a first controlling unit and a second controlling unit. The base plate includes a first surface and a second surface. The grounding component is provided on the first surface and includes a first part, a second part and a notch formed between the first part and the second part. The feed-in conductor is provided on the second surface and includes a first conducting part. The first conducting part extends across the notch, and is coupled to the first part. The first controlling unit is provided on the second surface and includes a first wire. The first wire extends across the notch, and is coupled to the first part. The second controlling unit is provided on the second surface and includes a second wire. The second wire extends across the notch, and is coupled to the first part.
US07821458B2 Apparatus and method for locating a terminal in a broadband wireless communication system
An apparatus and method for locating a terminal in a broadband wireless communication system are provided. The apparatus for locating the terminal includes a candidate region determiner, a virtual location determiner, and a final location determiner. The candidate region determiner determines a candidate region of the terminal by using tag signal arrival time information of the terminal provided from a plurality of readers. The virtual location determiner determines a virtual location of the terminal in the candidate region in consideration of a propagation delay of the tag signal. The final location determiner predicts a tag signal arrival time from the virtual location and determines the virtual location as the final location if a difference between the predicted tag signal arrival time and a measured tag signal arrival time is less than or equal to a threshold value. The apparatus and method provide a less expensive and less complex locating system.
US07821456B2 Method and apparatus for utilization of location determination signal samples in noisy environments
An apparatus for location determination includes a location determination receiver configured to receive location determination signals, a location determination signal quality assessment component configured to assess a quality of received location determination signals, and a location determination processor responsive to an output of the location determination signal quality component. The apparatus determining a location of the location determination receiver based on the location determination signals that are received during time periods when the location determination signal meets or exceeds a location determination signal quality threshold. A method for location determination is also disclosed.
US07821448B2 Constant altitude plan position indicator display for multiple radars
A system and a method to receive radar data from a plurality of radars and to reduce the data from the plurality of radars to a common universal latitude-longitude coordinate frame. The plurality of radars may be positioned at separate geographical locations and may have one or more overlapping regions. The data may be combined in the one or more overlapping regions.
US07821443B2 Dual mode radar methods and systems
One embodiment relates to a dual mode radar transceiver. The dual mode transceiver includes a plurality of transmit channels. Each of the plurality of transmit channels is adapted to switch between a first mode and a second mode. The first mode includes a first combination of the plurality of transmit channels adapted to concurrently transmit outgoing signals. The second mode includes a plurality of different combinations of the plurality of transmit channels. Each of the plurality of different combinations has fewer transmit channels than the first combination. Other methods and systems are also disclosed.
US07821441B2 SAR analog-to-digital converter having variable currents for low power mode of operation
A successive approximation analog-to-digital converter includes a capacitor array having a plurality of switch capacitors therein with varying weights, each having a common plate connected to a common node and a switched plate. A SAR controller samples an input voltage on said capacitor array in a sampling phase and redistributes the charge stored therein in a conversion phase by selectively increasing the voltage on select capacitors of the capacitor array in accordance with a SAR conversion algorithm. Circuitry controls the sampling of the input voltage by the capacitor array and is responsive to at least one applied bias current. The at least one applied bias current operates at a first level responsive to a first mode of operation of the SAR ADC and operates at a second level responsive to a second mode of operation of the SAR ADC.
US07821440B2 System and method of altering a PWM carrier power spectrum
In a particular embodiment, a circuit device includes an input to receive a pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal and an output to send a modulated PWM signal. The circuit device further includes a pulse edge control circuit coupled between the input and the output. The pulse edge control circuit receives the PWM signal via the input and includes a control input to receive a modulation control signal. The pulse edge control circuit is adapted to modify the PWM signal to provide the modulated PWM signal with suppressed carrier power and associated harmonics to the output based on the modulation control signal. The circuit device further includes a modulation sequence controller adapted to provide the modulation control signal via the control input. The modulation control signal selectively controls a sequence of the modification of the PWM signal to selectively alter an output power spectrum of the modulated PWM signal.
US07821439B2 Programmable CAN bus to analogue signal converter
A module (10) connects to a CAN bus in a motor vehicle and converts a CAN message into an analog signal that can be monitored by test equipment. The module also has wireless communication with a PDA (300) via a radio transceiver (28) to allow the PDA to display a converted CAN message and to select different messages for display.
US07821438B2 Digital-to-analog converter circuit layout
A digital-to-analog converter circuit layout includes a ratiometric digital-to-analog converter. The ratiometric digital-to-analog converter includes a digital data input, a converter voltage output, a voltage controlled oscillator, and a pulse width modulation module. The a digital data input, a converter voltage output, a voltage controlled oscillator, and a pulse width modulation module is configured in a controllable manner for converting digital data received at the input to a converter output voltage at the output using a reference voltage, an adjustable current as a reference current, and an adjustable impedance value. The circuit layout is characterized in that the voltage controlled oscillator includes circuit components which multiply the reference voltage by a quotient between the adjustable impedance value and the adjustable current, and which apply the multiplication results to the pulse width modulation module.
US07821435B2 Background calibration system for calibrating non-linear distortion of amplifier and method thereof
The present invention discloses a background calibration system and method for calibrating the non-linear distortion of the amplifier. The calibration method in the present invention includes: generating random sequences and inputting the random sequences in different amount and different sets into an amplifier; amplifying the random sequences and detecting linear and non-linear coefficients; quantizing the output linear signal from the amplifier, and generating a digital output signal; multiplying the digital output signal to generate a high-order signal; generating an estimated non-linear error for the amplifier by multiplying the high-order signal with the estimated non-linear coefficient; adding the non-linear signal with the digital output signal to generate a linear output signal; calculating the random value from the parameter extractor to determine the occurrence of non-linear distortion in the circuit, and further adjusting the non-linear coefficient to calibrating the amplifier.
US07821431B2 Universal and fault-tolerant multiphase digital PWM controller for high-frequency DC-DC converters
A multiphase hybrid digital pulse width modulator can comprise a counter that is selectable between at least two different numbers of states to indicate a first portion of a switching period. Unclocked logic can indicate a second portion of the switching period. The unclocked logic can include a delay line.
US07821430B2 Arithmetic decoding apparatus
Disclosed herein is an arithmetic decoding apparatus that decodes encoded data while updating first and second state variables based on first and second context variables. The first context variable represents a probability state. The second context variable represents a most probable symbol. The arithmetic decoding apparatus includes: a decoding information table that stores transitions of a range of the most probable symbol and a range of a least probable symbol within a range identified by the first context variable, and a number of a symbol for which the range of the most probable symbol becomes less than a specific value; a number-of-symbols determination section configured to determine the number of symbols in the encoded data that are to be decoded collectively; and an output section configured to decode and output a symbol corresponding to the number of symbols that are to be decoded collectively.
US07821428B2 MCU with integrated voltage isolator and integrated galvanically isolated asynchronous serial data link
An integrated circuit comprises a first microcontroller unit for executing instructions in accordance with a first clock frequency. The microcontroller located on a first die and includes a first processing core for providing a parallel stream of data in accordance with the first clock frequency. A second microcontroller unit executes instructions in accordance with the first clock frequency. The second microcontroller is located on a second die and includes a second processing core for receiving the parallel stream of data in accordance with the first clock frequency. Capacitive isolation circuitry connected with the first microcontroller unit and the second microcontroller unit provides a high voltage isolation link between the first and the second microcontroller units. The capacitive isolation circuitry distributing a first portion of a high voltage isolation signal across a first group of capacitors associated with the first microcontroller unit and distributes a second portion of the high voltage isolation signal across a second group of capacitors associated with the second microcontroller unit. The capacitive isolation circuitry further transmits data from the parallel data stream between the first microcontroller and the second microcontroller in a serial data stream in accordance with the second clock frequency.
US07821426B2 Adaptive entropy coding compression output formats
A system stores compressed literal symbols in a first data block and encoded literal symbols in a second data block. The compressed literal symbols correspond to a first group of literal symbols and the encoded literal symbols correspond to a second group of literal symbols. Each of the second group of literal symbols occurs subsequently in a symbol stream to a literal symbol with the same value in the first group of literal symbols.
US07821424B2 Determining asset location via local triangulation
An asset is located in a facility via triangulation. When the user enters the facility with the asset, the user receives a base and code from a base/code booth. The code may be stored on a removable card. The user secures the asset by entering the code. While the user is away from the facility, the base is monitored for movement detected by the motion sensor. When the user returns to the facility, a locator panel displays the location of the asset determined by triangulation using the locators.
US07821421B2 Traffic information system
A method of evaluating the driving behavior in a vehicle. The method includes determining values of a plurality of parameters of the operation of a first vehicle in a first road segment, determining values of the plurality of parameters for one or more second vehicles in a second road segment having similar properties to those of the first road segment, comparing the determined values of the first vehicle and the one or more second vehicles and providing an evaluation of the driving behavior of the first vehicle, responsive to the comparison.
US07821417B2 Method and system for detecting the presence of parts in an assembly fixture
The present invention provides a system and method of detecting the correct and complete loading of parts in one or more assembly fixtures. A missing or incorrectly loaded part results in an airflow from a respective part cavity in an assembly fixture and a switch assembly, which can be located distal from the assembly fixtures, detects the airflow and provides a signal indicating that the fixture is not correctly loaded. Conversely, if each and every part is correctly loaded into the assembly fixtures, no airflow occurs and the switch assembly outputs a signal indicating that the assembly fixtures are correctly loaded and that subsequent manufacturing/assembly operations can be performed.
US07821415B1 Pneumatically operated patient bed monitor
A pneumatic patient bed monitor comprises a hermetically sealed flexible outer shell that contains a porous foam core having a certain volume of air. A flexible tube places the foam core in communication with a pneumatic pressure switch. The tube is hermetically sealed to both the outer shell and the switch. The pressure switch is in a normally open position. When a weight of a patient compresses the foam core, air contained in the foam core flows in a controlled manner into the tube, thereby causing a rise in pressure within the tube and actuating the pressure switch. When the weight of the patient is removed, air flows out of the tube in a controlled manner and back into the foam core, causing a drop in pressure within the tube and de-actuating the pressure switch. The foam core returns to its decompressed state.
US07821414B2 Polyphase source detecting circuit
A polyphase source detecting circuit configured for detecting a polyphase source having three sources includes three sampling circuits and an alarm circuit. Each sampling circuit has a control switch. A control terminal of the control switch of each sampling circuit is connected to one of the phase sources of the polyphase source respectively. The alarm circuit has a first transistor, a first LED, and a buzzer. The anode of the first LED is connected to a power supply. The cathode of the first LED is connected to the base of the first transistor and connected to ground via the control switches of the sampling circuits in turn. The collector of the first transistor is connected to the power supply via the buzzer. The emitter of the first transistor grounded.
US07821413B2 Enhanced AC immunity in ground fault detection
A method for reducing the occurrence of false ground fault detections in a central office terminal is provided. The method includes generating a no-fault signal when no ground current is detected, delaying generation of a fault signal when ground current is detected at least for the duration of an expected pulse in AC induced signal, and when the ground current persists for a sufficient period, generating a signal indicating a fault condition.
US07821410B2 Radio-type transmitting device, container, transmitting/receiving system and transmitting/receiving method
A radio-type transmitting device capable of transmitting information other than information in an internal memory is provided. A RFID tag includes a encoding circuit for digitalizing receiving sensitivity of a radio wave sent from an external transmitting/receiving apparatus and then sending the digitalized receiving sensitivity to the external transmitting/receiving apparatus. Thus, the external transmitting/receiving apparatus can obtain a distance between the external transmitting/receiving apparatus and the RFID tag based on received sensitivity information.
US07821407B2 Apparatus, systems, and methods for gathering and processing biometric and biomechanical data
Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for measuring and analyzing movements of a body and for communicating information related to such body movements over a network. In certain embodiments, a system gathers biometric and biomechanical data relating to positions, orientations, and movements of various body parts of a user performed during sports activities, physical rehabilitation, or military or law enforcement activities. The biometric and biomechanical data can be communicated to a local and/or remote interface, which uses digital performance assessment tools to provide a performance evaluation to the user. The performance evaluation may include a graphical representation (e.g., a video), statistical information, and/or a comparison to another user and/or instructor. In some embodiments, the biometric and biomechanical data is communicated wirelessly to one or more devices including a processor, display, and/or data storage medium for further analysis, archiving, and data mining. In some embodiments, the device includes a cellular telephone.
US07821405B2 Automatic subscriptions to shared repositories with notifications reflecting accesses by important other users and keywords stored in a personal interest profile
A system and method for automatically generating and receiving notifications regarding accesses to documents in a shared repository, where the notifications are filtered such that they are only generated and/or received for accesses that match a personal interest profile of a local user. The personal interest profile of the local user includes a number of keywords determined to be of interest to the local user, as well as a number of important person identifiers associated with other users determined to be important to the local user. The system is operable to provide notifications in response to accesses by important other users to shared documents, including reading of those documents by the important other users.
US07821401B2 RFID tag containing two tuned circuits
An RFID tag is disclosed adapted to be read by an interrogator including a reader antenna having a carrier frequency. The tag includes a first circuit including a first inductor and a first capacitor, wherein the first circuit is tuned to a frequency above the carrier frequency to compensate for detuning in the presence of a plurality of tags. The RFID tag includes a second circuit including a second inductor and a second capacitor wherein the first and second inductors are arranged to be coupled electromagnetically with a coupling factor less than unity and the second circuit is tuned to increase coupling between the first circuit and the reader antenna. A method of reading an RFID tag in the presence of a plurality of tags is also disclosed.
US07821399B2 RFID optimized capability negotiations
A near field communication (NFC) device is capable of operating as an NFC initiator device or an NFC target device for exchanging request and response messages with another similar device in order to determine a secondary transport mechanism suitable for communications between the two devices with bandwidth greater than available for NFC and for determining appropriate roles for both devices without excessive communication. Such determination of roles can be determined by rule or by exchanging information indicating a choice of roles.
US07821398B2 RFID tag and method of manufacturing RFID tag
An RFID tag includes: a tag main body having a communication antenna, a circuit chip electrically connected to the antenna to perform wireless communication via the antenna, and a tabular sealing member in which the antenna and the circuit chip are enclosed; a print layer formed on a first surface of the tag main body by printing; and a protective film that covers the print layer. The print layer is formed only in a central area of the first surface surrounded by a marginal area of the first surface extending along the outer edge of the first surface. The protective film includes a covering portion that covers the print layer and an adhering portion that lies off the print layer while surrounding the outer edge of the print layer and adheres to the first surface.
US07821389B2 System and method for providing emergency information
A monitoring system that allows for a handheld device to transmit information to a monitoring station indicative of an emergency situation within a facility. The handheld device is provided as a keyfob and transmits a wireless RF signal to transceivers variously positioned throughout the facility. Based on identifying which transceiver is in alert, personnel can determine the location of the emergency situation and track the movement of the keyfob as it is moved throughout the facility. Additionally, two-way communication can be established with via the system to provide a maximum amount of information to security personnel and first responders as well as allowing for specific instructions to be given to select personnel in the emergency area.
US07821388B1 See-through lighted information display
Embodiments for lighted see-through displays include a plurality of light elements positioned thereon at select points arranged to convey information. The light elements may be selectively lit to provide fixed or moving information, or may even be programmed to change or even display like a marquee or even a television. Particular embodiments of the invention employ a lightweight, flexible substrate to support the light elements. Other embodiments employ one or more comparatively rigid substrates supporting rows of light elements. Particular applications for the lighted sign embodiments include display in vehicle windows such as police vehicle windows, construction and utility vehicle windows, and school bus and public transportation windows. Global Positioning System and radio signal receiver components allow for regional display of pertinent information in particular embodiments of the invention.
US07821386B1 Departure-based reminder systems
A location-based reminder system includes a controller 112 that determines when a person is in and/or leaving a defined area 104; when a person is determined to be in and/or leaving the defined area 104, identify a reminder to be provided to the person, the reminder including information about at least one object associated with the person; and provide the reminder to the person before the person leaves the defined area 104.
US07821381B2 System for sending events between vehicles
The illustrative embodiments provide a method, a system, a computer program code, and a computer implemented method for sending events between vehicles. A vehicle detects an event, wherein the event is for a user action that indicates an intent to change movement of the vehicle. The vehicle determines whether the event should be sent to another vehicle. If the event should be sent to another vehicle, then the vehicle sends the event to the another vehicle.
US07821378B2 Apparatus and method for receiving tag signal in mobile RFID reader
Provided are a tag signal receiving apparatus that can perform digital Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK) demodulation onto signals received in a tag, decode the demodulated tag signal in synchronization, and acquire tag data in a mobile RFID reader, and a method thereof. The tag signal receiving apparatus includes: a digital demodulating block for performing ASK demodulation onto a digital tag signal received through a reader antenna and converted into a digital tag signal in an analog-to-digital (AD) converter; and a decoding block for detecting edge position information of the demodulated tag signal by performing accumulation and decoding the demodulated tag signal by using the detected edge position information. The digital demodulating block includes a channel level comparator, a phase inverter, a signal converter; and an adder. The decoding block includes an edge information detector, a correlator, and a bit data decider.
US07821370B1 Connector with a shutter mechanism pivotally retained thereon
A connector includes: an insulative housing having a mating port formed between a pair of front wall and rear wall, and a pair of side walls thereof, the mating port defining a first direction for mating/un-mating a corresponding plug, and a second direction extending transversely and perpendicular to said first direction, and a third direction extending vertically and perpendicular to both said first and second directions; a shutter mechanism pivotally mounted to the insulative housing and having a pair of axles extending from two sides thereof in the second direction; wherein the side wall defines a first slot at an inner side thereof and a second slot at an outer side thereof, the second slot extending in the first direction, the first slot extending in a direction different from the second slot and overlapping with the second slot in the second direction to form an opening to receive the axles.
US07821366B2 Magnetic circuit and method of applying magnetic field
In a magnetic circuit for providing magnetic anisotropy in the in-plane radial direction of a soft magnetic under layer, magnets for perpendicular magnetization are respectively provide on the north and south poles of a magnet for horizontal magnetization. When magnetic circuits configured thus are stacked in a plurality of stages, a magnetic field (air-gap magnetic field) formed in a gap between the magnetic circuits is superimposed by magnetic fields from the magnets for perpendicular magnetization as well as a magnetic field from the magnet for horizontal magnetization (in-plane magnetization). The pole faces of the magnets for perpendicular magnetization are disposed closer to the gap between the magnetic circuits, so that a stronger magnetic field can be formed in the gap.
US07821365B2 Permanent magnet magnetizing apparatus and permanent magnet magnetizing method
To provide a magnetizing apparatus and magnetizing method in which, even in preparation of a ring-shaped permanent magnet having a narrow magnetization pitch with multiple poles magnetized on an extremely small diameter, sufficient magnetization and high magnetization quality can be achieved and powerful magnetization can be carried out efficiently and quickly at low cost.A permanent magnet magnetizing apparatus includes a heating section 10, a magnetizing section 12 axially disposed as a discrete structure from the heating section 10, and a holding member 22 for holding magnetization object 20 and movable relative to the heating section and the magnetizing section. The magnetization object heated in the heating section is transferred to the magnetizing section and is magnetized therein.
US07821364B2 Connecting system comprising an electromagnetic switchgear device, especially contactor, and a connector
A connecting system includes an electromagnetic switchgear, especially contactor, and a connector. In at least one embodiment, the system makes it easier to connect auxiliary and control lines. For this purpose, the connecting system, in at least one embodiment, includes at least one electromagnetic switchgear, especially a contactor. The switchgear includes a plurality of auxiliary contact connections and a coil connection terminal block. The coil connection terminal block is configured in such a manner that the coil connections lie in a plane with at least one auxiliary contact connection. The connecting system also includes, in at least one embodiment, a connector for simultaneously contacting the coil and auxiliary contact connections of one or more switchgears which connections lie in one plane. The connector has an internal wiring for electrically interconnecting the coil and/or auxiliary contact connections.
US07821363B2 Method and apparatus for bending electrostatic switch
An electronic circuit is formed by closely spacing metallic gate and drain interconnects to a flexible portion of a source interconnect. A gate voltage results in electrostatic attraction and lateral mechanical movement of the flexible source interconnect portion and causes an electrical short between source and drain. VanderWaals attraction between contacting source and drain can be used to provide volatile switching (springy thicker source portion) and non-volatile switching (limp thinner source portion). In accordance with the invention, an easily fabricated, high speed, low power, radiation hard, temperature independent, integrated reconfigurable electronic circuit with embedded logic and non-volatile memory can be realized. The switch uses patterned interconnect material for its structure and can be incorporated to a 3D layered structure consisting of three dimensional interconnect in which different layers and portions of the circuits are linked through volatile and non-volatile switches.
US07821362B2 Boosted-bias tunable filter with dynamic calibration
In a signal communication device, a frequency-selective filter has at least one component that is biased by a control signal to establish a center frequency of the frequency-selective filter. A closed-loop bias generator is provided to generate the control signal and to adjust the control signal based, at least in part, on a comparison of the control signal and a reference signal.
US07821361B2 Second-order band-pass filter and wireless apparatus using the same
A second-order band-pass filter for generating at least two transmission zeros includes a first signal terminal, a second signal terminal, a first transmission line resonator, a second transmission line resonator and an impedance inverter. The first transmission line resonator and the second transmission line resonator are symmetric to each other and coupled to the first signal terminal and the second signal terminal, which are formed by bending two quarter-wavelength open stubs and have an open circuit gap between the two terminals. The impedance inverter includes an inductor, a first micro strip line and a second micro strip line. The first micro strip line and the second micro strip line are symmetric to each other, and are coupled to the first signal terminal and the second signal terminal and coupled to a ground through the inductor, respectively.
US07821359B2 Band-stop filters
Multiple tank elements disposed along a common axis and multiple conductive pads disposed along opposing sides of the tank elements define a serpentine transmission path. The tank elements, each having a capacitor and an inductor in parallel communication, define respective portions of the serpentine transmission path that cross the common axis. In a circuit element having multiple tank elements defining a transmission path in which each tank element is preceded or followed by a next neighbor tank element, inductors of next neighbor tank elements are structured to generate directionally opposing magnetic fields upon passage of electrical current progressing along the transmission path.
US07821355B2 Waveguide antenna front end
In some embodiments of the present invention, an antenna front end includes at least two diplexers. Each of the diplexers is defined with a channel within a single material block. Each channel is shaped to provide a diplexer which includes a coupler, a receive band filter and a transmit band filter, which are adjoined and matched to form a continuous waveguide channel. Some embodiments further include a transmit hybrid coupler and/or a receive hybrid coupler. The transmit hybrid coupler is formed as a channel within the material block and adjoined and matched to the two transmit band filters. The receive hybrid coupler is formed as a channel within the material block and adjoined and matched to the two receive band filters.
US07821349B2 Cascode amplifier and differential cascode voltage-controlled oscillator using the same
Provided is a differential cascode voltage-controlled oscillator that can reduce a phase noise by the use of a quality factor enhancement technique with negative conductance and can mitigate a ground-caused noise effect by the use of a cascode connection technique. The differential cascode voltage-controlled oscillator includes an AC signal generator, and first through fourth cascode amplifiers. The AC signal generator generates an AC signal with a certain frequency according to a control voltage. The first cascode amplifier is connected in a cascode configuration, and amplifies the AC signal to output the resulting signal to a first output terminal. The second cascode amplifier is connected in a cascode configuration and connected to the first cascode amplifier in a cross-coupled configuration, to amplify the AC signal to output the resulting signal to a second output terminal. The third cascode amplifier is connected in a cascode configuration to amplify the AC signal to output the resulting signal to the first output terminal. The fourth cascode amplifier is connected in a cascode configuration and connected to the third cascode amplifier in a cross-coupled configuration, to amplify the AC signal to output the resulting signal to the second output terminal. Herein, the first and second cascode amplifiers and the third and fourth cascode amplifiers are symmetrically connected to differentially amplify the AC signal.
US07821345B2 Calibrating an oscillator and corresponding calibration device
A method of calibrating an oscillator in order to compensate the dispersions generated, on the one hand, during the process of fabricating the oscillator circuit components and, on the other hand, by variations of operating conditions by modifying the parameters of a resonant component, for example a capacitor or an induction coil of the oscillator, in order to change the frequency range covered by the oscillator, according to the control voltage. Accordingly, calibrating the oscillator adjusts the output frequency of the oscillator according to an oscillator control signal. The calibration device determines the difference between the output frequency of the oscillator divided by a quantity and a reference frequency of the oscillator. The device includes a set of impedances selectively connected to the oscillator and each corresponding to a frequency deviation of the oscillator, and a calibration stage to generate a calibration word according to the measured frequency difference.
US07821340B2 Output stage circuit and operational amplifier
An output stage circuit is disclosed, which includes a first PMOS transistor, a second PMOS transistor, a first NMOS transistor, and a second NMOS transistor. By using twin-well CMOS transistors and a specific circuit configuration, the invention supports a HALF AVDD structure, reduces power consumption and saves the cost of triple-well CMOS process.
US07821337B2 Power amplifier
A power amplifier of the present invention includes a distributor (76) for distributing an input signal; an anti-phase third-order intermodulation distortion generation circuit (63) for, upon receiving the input signal that was distributed by the distributor, generating third-order intermodulation distortion for which the phase difference is anti-phase with respect to each of two main signals of different frequencies and supplying the two main signals and the third-order intermodulation distortion; a first amplifier (61) for amplifying the signal received from the anti-phase third-order intermodulation distortion generation circuit and supplying the result; a second amplifier (62) for amplifying the input signal that was distributed by the distributor and supplying the result; and a synthesizer (64) for combining the output signal of the first amplifier and the output signal of the second amplifier.
US07821331B2 Reduction of temperature dependence of a reference voltage
An apparatus and a method to reduce temperature dependence of a reference voltage have been presented. In one embodiment, the method includes generating a reference voltage associated with a difference between a first threshold voltage of a first transistor and a second threshold voltage of a second transistor. The method may further include biasing the first transistor and the second transistor at a predetermined ratio of currents of the first and the second transistors to reduce temperature dependence of the reference voltage.
US07821329B2 Pumping voltage generating circuit and semiconductor memory apparatus using the same
A pumping voltage generating circuit in a semiconductor memory apparatus includes a voltage supplying unit configured to supply an external power supply voltage to a first node in response to a first transfer signal, a node control unit configured to couple the first node to a second node in response to a second transfer signal and to couple the second node to an output node in response to a third transfer signal, a first pumping unit configured to increase a voltage level on the first node through a pumping operation that is performed in response to a first oscillation signal and to control one of an amount of voltage increment and decrement on the first node in response to a first control signal, and a second pumping unit configured to increase a voltage level on the second node through a pumping operation that is performed in response to a second oscillation signal and to control one of an amount of voltage increment and decrement on the second node in response to a second control signal.
US07821328B2 Dynamic charge pump system for front end protection circuit
Various apparatuses, methods and systems for a front end protection circuit with a dynamic charge pump system are disclosed herein. For example, some embodiments provide an apparatus such as a voltage regulator, a current regulator, a driver circuit or a switch protection circuit. The apparatus includes an output switch, a switch controller and a voltage threshold detector. The apparatus operates in a reduced power mode when the threshold detector detects a feedback level passing a threshold. In some particular embodiments, the switch controller includes a charge pump and an oscillator that run at lower speeds to reduce power usage when the feedback level passes the threshold. In various embodiments, the feedback level is a voltage level at the output switch control input, the output voltage from the output switch, or the output current from the output switch.
US07821323B2 Bias circuit for a switching power supply
A bias circuit for a switching power supply includes a rectifier that is connected to an AC power source and outputs a full wave rectified voltage Vs; a voltage divider, a diode, a first transistor, and a second transistor connected in parallel between Vs and ground; a capacitor connected between a first terminal of the second transistor and ground; and a node between the capacitor and the first terminal of the second transistor providing an output bias voltage Vcc from the bias circuit. A voltage from the voltage divider is provided to a gate of the first transistor, and the diode and a first terminal of the first transistor are connected to a gate of the second transistor.
US07821317B2 Clock generating apparatus
A clock generating apparatus includes a clock generator and a controllable delay line. The clock generator receives an external clock signal and generates multiple clock signals having different phases by delaying the external clock signal. The controllable delay line receives one of the multiple clock signals as a first clock signal and delays the first clock signal by a first interval in response to an externally applied control signal. The delayed first clock signal is input to the clock generator.
US07821309B2 Delay locked loop circuit
A delay locked loop (DLL) circuit has a first delay line that delays a received external clock signal for a fine delay time and then outputs a first internal clock signal; a duty cycle correction unit that corrects a duty cycle of the first internal clock signal and then outputs a second clock signal; a second delay line that delays the second clock signal for a coarse delay time and then outputs a second internal clock signal; and a phase detection and control unit that detects the difference between the phases of the external clock signal and the fed back second internal clock signal, and controls the fine delay time and the coarse delay time. The DLL circuit performs coarse locking and fine locking by using different type delay cells, and thus consumes a small amount of power and robustly withstands jitter and variation in PVT variables.
US07821303B2 Comparator and A/D converter
A comparator used in a parallel-type A/D converter, wherein a comparator 100 includes reset transistors mra and mrb. When the comparator 100 is in the Reset state, the inverted signal /CLK of the clock signal is given to the PMOS reset transistors mra and mrb so as to forcibly reset both of the voltages at two internal nodes Va and Vb being a differential pair to a predetermined reset voltage by the reset transistors mra and mrb. The inverted signal /CLK of the clock signal is produced with a predetermined delay. Thus, when the comparator 100 is in the Reset state, the point in time at which to cancel the reset of the internal nodes Va and Vb is delayed from that at which the comparator performs a comparison operation. Therefore, even if the frequency of the clock signal and the frequency of the analog input signal are high, the voltages at the internal nodes forming a differential pair are well-balanced when the comparator is in the Reset state, thus improving the voltage comparison precision.
US07821302B2 Frequency monitor
A method and system for monitoring a frequency of a clock signal is disclosed. The method and system comprise dividing a clock signal into a plurality of clock signal components. The method and system further comprise adding a delay to each of the clock signal components and comparing the plurality of signal components with each of the delayed clock signal components to monitor whether the clock signal is within a predetermined frequency range. The method and system includes providing an output signal indicative of a condition of the clock signal based upon the comparing step.
US07821301B2 Method and apparatus for measuring and compensating for static phase error in phase locked loops
A method and circuit for static phase error measurement includes a reference clock delay chain having a selectable number of delay elements. A number of the delay elements are enabled in accordance with a select length signal to delay a reference clock signal. A feedback signal delay chain also has a selectable number of delay elements. A number of the delay elements are enabled in accordance with a select length signal to delay a feedback signal. A latch tests phase alignment between the delayed reference clock signal and the delayed feedback signal and outputs a measurement of static phase error.
US07821299B2 Matrix decoder
A matrix decoder is provided, which includes a plurality of first level shifters, a plurality of second level shifters, and a demultiplexer. The first level shifters and the second level shifters boost the voltages of inputted signals to the voltages required by high voltage components and output the boosted signals. One of the first level shifters receives a first logic state and outputs a fifth logic state. Each of the other first level shifters receives a second logic state and outputs a sixth logic state. One of the second level shifters receives a third logic state and outputs a seventh logic state. Each of the other second level shifters receives a fourth logic state and outputs an eighth logic state. The demultiplexer outputs a ninth logic state and a plurality of tenth logic states according to the logic states outputted by the first level shifters and the second level shifters.
US07821297B2 Low power output driver
A low power output driver includes one of a regulated reduced voltage source that receives a supply voltage and outputs a regulated reduced voltage that is a lower voltage than the supply voltage. The driver also includes a first driver input that receives a first logic signal, a second driver input that receives a second logic signal, a first driver output that outputs a first output signal and a second driver output that outputs a second output signal. The driver includes first, second, third and fourth n-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) that are cross-connected between the reduced voltage and the first and second driver outputs or a constant voltage internal ground. When the second input is high, the second NMOS and the third NMOS are gated on, the second driver output is raised to the reduced voltage and the first driver output is pulled down to the constant voltage ground.
US07821294B2 Integrated circuit containing multi-state restore circuitry for restoring state to a power-managed functional block
Multi-state restore circuitry that allows storage elements of a power-managed functional block to be loaded when the functional block is repowered up so that the functional block is ready for operation virtually immediately after voltage ramp-up of the functional block. The multi-state restore circuitry includes a restore-state detector for determining which one of a plurality of restore states of the functional block is applicable to a particular repowering-up of the functional block. The multi-state restore circuitry also includes restore logic that loads the storage elements as a function of the restore state determined by the restore-state detector.
US07821287B2 System and method for display test
The system for display test includes a driving circuit having integrated circuit (IC) pads on the substrate and the IC pads are electrically connected to the signal lines, respectively. And the first switches are between the first test pads and the IC pads, wherein the number of the first test pads is less than the number of the IC pads.
US07821282B2 Inverter that calculates an average value of direct current DC
An inverter has an inverter circuit and a current detector. In the inverter circuit, upper-arm switching elements and lower-arm switching elements, which are connected to DC power supply, provide DC with pulse-width modulation (PWM) so as to output AC to a load. The current detector detects current of the load. With the structure above, the inverter calculates an average value of DC that flows between the DC power supply and the inverter circuit according to a product of an ON-period in which any one of the switching elements maintains ON and a current value detected by the current sensor.
US07821281B2 Method and apparatus of testing die to die interconnection for system in package
Method and apparatus of testing die to die interconnection for system in package (SiP). For testing a die to die interconnection connected between two pads of two dice, an IO buffer, e.g., a bi-directional IO buffer, in one of the two dice coupled to one of the two pads is arranged. An oscillating feedback is formed between an output port and an input port of the IO buffer, such that a state, e.g., an open state, a short state or a normal state of the die to die interconnection is tested according to a timing characteristic, e.g., a frequency, of a signal of the IO buffer.
US07821280B2 Process monitor for monitoring and compensating circuit performance
A method and system for monitoring and compensating the performance of an operational circuit is provided. The system includes one or more integrated circuit chips and a controller. Each integrated circuit chip includes one or more operational circuits, each operational circuit having at least one controllable circuit parameter. Each integrated circuit chip also includes a process monitor module at least partially constructed thereon. The controller is coupled to each process monitor module and to each operational circuit. The controller includes logic for evaluating the performance of an operational circuit based on data obtained from process monitor module and operational circuit related data stored in a memory. Based on the evaluation, the controller determines whether any deviations from desired or optimal performance of the circuit exist. If deviations exist, the controller generates a control signal to initiate adjustments to the operational circuit to compensate for the deviations.
US07821275B2 Anti-pinch sensor
An anti-pinch sensor, particularly for detecting an obstacle in the path of an actuating element of a motor vehicle is provided, having a sensor body, a measuring electrode, which is disposed in the sensor body and to which a measuring potential can be applied, a calibrating electrode, which is electrically disconnected and disposed in the sensor body adjacent to the measuring electrode, and a control unit. The control unit controls the measuring electrode and the calibrating electrode such that the measuring potential and the calibrating potential are equal in a measuring phase, and differ from each other in a calibrating phase.
US07821273B2 Circuit for detecting the impedance of a load
The invention refers to a circuit and a method for detecting the impedance of a load, whereby the circuit and the method can be used by an impedance matching circuit. Impedance matching circuits need a complex algorithm to adjust the impedance accordingly. This algorithm renders the response time to be long. It has been found out that the complexity partially stems from the fact that the phase of the reflection coefficient is not known over the full range of 0° to 360°. A quadrature phase detector is used to provide the full phase information.
US07821266B2 Method and device for optimization of imaging parameters
In a method and computerized device for determination of imaging parameters for the acquisition of a magnetic resonance image of an examination subject, initial imaging parameters are established, a calculation is made, based on the initial imaging parameters, of signal intensities for tissue types that occur at least in a portion of the examination subject, and the imaging parameters for the acquisition of the magnetic resonance image under are adapted dependent on the calculated signal intensities.
US07821264B2 System and method for MR imaging in inhomogeneous magnetic fields
An apparatus and method for MR imaging in inhomogeneous magnetic fields includes acquisition of a plurality of three-dimensional (3D) MR data sets, each data set having a central transmit frequency and a central receive frequency set to a frequency offset that is distinct for each 3D MR data set. A composite image is generated based on the plurality of 3D MR data sets.
US07821259B2 Device and method for examining magnetic characteristics of objects
The invention concerns a device and a method for examining magnetic properties of objects, in particular of sheet material such as for example bank notes. Therein the invention proceeds from a device and a method for examining magnetic properties of objects with a magneto-optical layer having magnetic domains, the optical properties of the magneto-optical layer being influenced by the magnetic properties of the object to be examined, at least one light source for the generation of light incident upon the magneto-optical layer, and at least one sensor for the reception of light which is transmitted and/or reflected by the magneto-optical layer, with a magnetic filed in the area of the magneto-optical layer which extends substantially parallel to the surface of the magneto-optical layer.
US07821250B2 RF sensor clamp assembly
A clamp assembly for bringing an RF sensor into electrical contact with an RF current carrier is provided herein. The clamp assembly (101) comprises a first wedge-shaped element (103), and a second wedge-shaped element (105) which is slidingly engaged with said first wedge-shaped element. Preferably, the clamp assembly also comprises a collar (113) within which the first and second wedge-shaped elements are disposed. The clamp assembly preferably further comprises a fastener (111), such as a screw, which adjoins the first and second elements, in which case the clamp assembly is adapted such that, as the screw is rotated in a first direction, at least one of the first and second elements expands against the collar and/or the RF current carrier.
US07821249B2 Phase difference measuring device and phase comparison circuit adjusting method
A phase difference measuring device according to this invention has an object of shortening the measuring time, and includes a plurality of phase difference measuring circuits (104, 105, 106) formed in a row, and phase difference conversion circuits (101, 102, 103) each connected between adjacent phase difference measuring circuits. The phase difference measuring circuit receives first and second signals, respectively gives the first and second signals first and second delay amounts cumulatively a plurality of number of times, and, whenever giving the delay amounts, compares the phases of the first and second signals given the delay amounts, thereby determining which one of the phases leads the other. The phase difference conversion circuit receives the first and second signals input to the phase difference measuring circuit in the preceding stage, respectively gives the first and second signals a first total delay amount (Tr1) as a total of the first delay amounts and a second total delay amount (Ts1) as a total of the second delay amounts given by the phase difference measuring circuit in the preceding stage, and outputs the first and second signals to the phase difference measuring circuit in the succeeding stage.
US07821248B2 Device and method for counting elementary particles emitted by a fluid in a conduit
The invention relates to a device and a method for counting elementary particles emitted by a fluid, the device comprising a line for transferring the fluid and, outside the line, detection means (6a) for detecting the particles that are attenuated by a wall of the line and/or by this fluid.A counting device according to the invention includes at least one counting portion (4a) of oblong cross section which joins together two adjacent portions of the line having a larger flow section and which has an [internal height (h)/internal width (l)] ratio of 20% or less, in which the internal height and the internal width represent the smallest and largest transverse dimensions respectively of the portion, these being measured along two approximately perpendicular directions, said detection means extending transversely to this portion, facing its entire internal width and on either side thereof.
US07821242B2 Constant voltage circuit and method of controlling ouput voltage of constant voltage circuit
A constant voltage circuit for converting an input voltage input from an input terminal, converting the input voltage to a predetermined constant voltage, and outputting the converted voltage from an output terminal is disclosed that includes an output transistor for outputting a current corresponding to a control signal from the input terminal to the output terminal, a control circuit part for controlling operation of the output transistor so that a proportional voltage proportional to the voltage output from the output terminal is equal to a reference voltage, and a pseudo-load current control circuit part for supplying a pseudo-load current from the output terminal when detecting that the output transistor is switched off according to a voltage difference between the input voltage and a voltage of a gate of the output transistor.
US07821240B2 Voltage regulator with pass transistors carrying different ratios of the total load current and method of operation therefor
A voltage regulator for providing a voltage regulated output to a load comprises a first loop and a second loop. The first loop comprises a first active device coupled to a first pass device and configured to provide a first, relatively high current output to the load. The second loop comprises a second active device coupled to a second pass device and configured to provide a second, relatively low current output to the load. This provision of two independent loops reduces the quiescent current provided by the voltage regulator under low load conditions.
US07821239B2 Switching power supply
A switching power-supply unit uses a time when a transformer voltage Vt inverts due to a rectifier diode (Ds1) entering a non-conducting state as a trigger, and a first switching control circuit (CNT1) turns on a first switching element (Q1) after a predetermined delay time passes. A second switching control circuit (CNT2) turns on a second switching element (Q2) using a time when the transformer voltage Vt inverts due to turning off of the first switching element (Q1) as a trigger. A third switching control circuit (CNT3) turns on a third switching element (Q3) using turning off of the second switching element (Q2) as a trigger. The first switching control circuit (CNT1) determines a period ton1 of the first switching element (Q1) such that a first output voltage Vo1 is set to a predetermined value. The second switching control circuit (CNT2) determines an ON-period ton2 of the second switching element (Q2) such that a second output voltage Vo2 is set to a predetermined value. The third switching control circuit (CNT3) determines an ON-period ton3 of the third switching element (Q3) such that a third output voltage Vo3 is set to a predetermined value.
US07821236B2 Control circuit for detecting a reverse current in a DC-DC converter
A DC-DC converter reducing reverse current and maintaining high conversion efficiency under a light load. The DC-DC converter perform pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM) and includes a drive control circuit generating a first drive signal and a second drive signal activating and inactivating a first transistor and a second transistor in a complementary manner. A reversed flow detection circuit detects current flowing to the second transistor and generates a detection signal controlling activation and inactivation of the second transistor. A detection signal invalidation circuit, coupled to the reversed flow detection circuit and the drive control circuit, receiving an operation switch signal and invalidating the detection signal in response to the operation switch signal during at least a certain period of the PWM.
US07821233B2 Charging circuit
In a charging circuit charging a battery based on a power supply voltage from an external power supply, a charging transistor is provided on a path from the external power supply to the battery. A charging control circuit is integrated on a semiconductor substrate, and adjusts an ON state of the charging transistor to control a charging current supplied to the battery. The voltage adjusting circuit provided on an electric power supply path from the external power supply to a power supply terminal of the charging control circuit generates a necessary voltage drop. The current adjusting circuit adjusts the ON state of the charging transistor such that a voltage of the battery is brought close to a predetermined voltage value. The clamp circuit clamps a voltage at the power supply terminal of the charging control circuit below a predetermined clamp voltage.
US07821228B2 Mobile phone charger
A charger includes a battery module, a boosting and charging circuit, a low voltage boosting circuit, and a charging interface. The battery module provides an operating voltage for the boosting and charging circuit and the low voltage boosting circuit. When the operating voltage is greater than a reference voltage of the boosting and charging circuit, the boosting and charging circuit module works and outputs a charging voltage to the charging interface. When the operating voltage is smaller than the reference voltage of the boosting and charging circuit but greater than a starting voltage of the low voltage boosting circuit, the low voltage boosting circuit works and boosts the operating voltage to the boosting and charging circuit, and then the boosting and charging circuit module works and outputs the charging voltage to the charging interface for the mobile phone.
US07821226B2 Method for the allocation of addresses in the memory cells of a rechargeable energy accumulator
A method for placing addresses in the memory cells of a rechargeable energy storage device for use in a motor vehicle, each of which memory cells includes at least one sensor device and an individualizing device for storing an address. In order to optimize the placing of addresses in the memory cells of a rechargeable storage device, the functionality of the memory cells is checked using the sensor device in the vehicle, an individual address is assigned to each operable memory cell, and the individual address is used to individualize the sensor values made available from the sensor device.
US07821223B2 Vector controller for a permanent magnet motor and inverter module
In a system in which current is detected in an inexpensive manner or in a system in which a position detector is omitted, the present invention provides a high-efficiency vector controller for a permanent magnet motor that can minimize current at the same torque even when there is setting error (R−R*) in resistance. Even when a current value commanded for the d-axis is set to zero, a virtual inductance value calculated from a detected q-axis current value is used for output voltage value calculation and phase error estimation calculation; so even if there is setting error (R−R*) in resistance, current can be minimized at the same torque and thereby the present invention can provide a high-efficiency vector controller for a permanent magnet motor.
US07821221B2 Two-phase permanent magnet motor
The invention relates to a two-phase permanent magnet motor which is controlled by a frequency converter. The frequency converter is advantageously provided with a three-phase inverter having six switches that are controlled in such a manner as to minimize switching losses.
US07821219B2 Motor control apparatus and motor control method
Size and weight reduction of a motor-driven vehicle, robot or the like is achieved. A current command Iref from a speed feedback gain is supplied to each of circuits with coefficients of sin(θm), sin(θm+2π/3) and sin(θm−2π/3) to generate three-phase signals. The three-phase signals are respectively supplied to current control gains through adder-subtracters. Further, signals from motor constants are added together by an adder to produce motor torque. Furthermore, coil voltages output from adders pass through diodes and are then added together by an adder, and the signal is supplied to a regenerative voltage determiner. When a regenerative voltage becomes excessive, in-phase current Idc is supplied through a regeneration control gain to adder-subtracters.
US07821218B2 Universal apparatus and method for configurably controlling a heating or cooling system
A system controller is provided that includes a communication network for transmitting and receiving information from an installed blower motor controller, and a removable memory device connected to the system controller. The removable memory device includes stored system parameter information related to a particular heating or cooling system, which information includes at least motor related parameters related to one or more types of blower motors. The system controller further includes a processor that receives, via the communication network, identifying information from the blower motor controller that identifies the type of blower motor that is installed. The processor is configured to retrieve motor related parameters corresponding to the specific identified blower motor from the memory device, and to send the corresponding motor related parameters to the blower motor controller.
US07821213B2 Techniques for controlling a charged particle beam
Techniques for controlling a charged particle beam are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a charged particle acceleration/deceleration system. The charged particle acceleration/deceleration system may comprise an accelerator column, which may comprise a plurality of electrodes. The plurality of electrodes may have apertures through which a charged particle beam may pass. The charged particle acceleration/deceleration system may also comprise a voltage grading system. The voltage grading system may comprise a first fluid reservoir and a first fluid circuit. The first fluid circuit may have conductive connectors connecting to at least one of the plurality of electrodes. The voltage grading system may further comprise fluid in the first fluid circuit. The fluid may have an electrical resistance.
US07821209B2 Light source unit, illumination apparatus for display apparatus, and display apparatus
A light source unit for use in, for example, a backlight for illuminating a display panel of a liquid crystal display apparatus, includes a cold-cathode tube having discharge electrodes provided one in each end portion of a glass tube whose interior is filled with a discharge gas. A coil as an inductance element is connected to at least one of the discharge electrodes of the cold-cathode tube so as to eliminate the difficulty in handling a cold-cathode tube caused by its having a negative characteristic such that, as the current flowing therethrough increases, the resistance across it decreases, causing the cold cathode-tube to succumb to current runaway.
US07821204B2 Plasma display apparatus comprising connector
A plasma display apparatus comprising a connector is provided. The plasma display apparatus comprises a plasma display panel comprising an electrode of a predetermined width and a connector comprising an electrode line of a width narrower than the predetermined width of the electrode to supply a driving signal to the electrode. A distance between the electrode line and an adjacent electrode line is longer than a distance between the electrode and an adjacent electrode.
US07821203B2 Photomultiplier
The present invention relates to a photomultiplier that realizes significant improvement of response time properties with a structure enabling mass production. The photomultiplier comprises a sealed container, and the sealed container includes a hollow body section, extending along a tube axis, and a faceplate. The faceplate has a light incidence surface and a light emission surface on which a photocathode is formed. In particular, the light emission surface is constituted by a flat region, and a curved-surface processed region that is positioned at a periphery of the flat region and that includes edges of the light emission surface. A surface shape of the peripheral region of the light emission surface of the faceplate is thus intentionally changed in order to adjust the angles of emission of photoelectrons from the photocathode positioned at the peripheral region. Thus, the spread of transit times of photoelectrons propagating from the photocathode to a first dynode is thus reduced effectively and made not to depend on the emission positions of the photoelectrons.
US07821189B2 Method for maintaining vacuum-tight inside a panel module and structure for the same
This invention provides a method for maintaining vacuum of a panel module and a structure of the panel module. A sealing material is suspended inside the panel module right above an exhaust opening of the panel module connecting with an exhaust tube. After exhausting the inside of the panel module, the sealing material is heated and molten so as to drop down to seal the exhaust tube. As such, the panel module becomes vacuum-tight. During a subsequent annealing process to heat the exhaust tube to its melting temperature, ambient air is prohibited from flowing into the panel module.
US07821188B2 Lighting device and display device provided with the same
To provide a lighting device capable of a substantial color adjustment and unlimited control of spectral components, a lighting device of the present invention puts a first transparent plate in which a phosphor layer dispersed with a first phosphor is formed in places and a second transparent plate in which a phosphor layer dispersed with a second phosphor is formed in places in a path of light from a light source, and stacks the first transparent plate and the second transparent plate on top of each other. The second phosphor differs from the first phosphor. How much in terms of area the phosphor layers overlap with each other is made variable, and the color tone of the lighting device can thus be controlled. The lighting device uses a blue light source as its light source, a green phosphor as the first phosphor, and a red phosphor as the second phosphor. An intended chromaticity can be obtained by varying how much in terms of area the green phosphor layer and the red phosphor layer overlap with each other and thereby adjusting the green light absorption amount of the red phosphor.
US07821186B2 Spark plug having specific configuration of center electrode with respect to outer electrode
A spark plug includes an outer electrode including an outer electrode tip of which a distal end surface is spaced from an outer peripheral surface of a leading end portion of a center electrode to define a spark discharge gap. A protruding insulator portion of a cylindrical insulator protrudes at least 1.0 mm from a leading end surface of a cylindrical metal shell. A protruding center electrode portion of the center electrode protrudes at least 3.5 mm from the leading end surface of the cylindrical metal shell. A relationship (θ1+θ2)/2≧75 degrees is satisfied where the angle θ1 is defined as a central angle (degrees) of a first circular sector having a point B1 as a center thereof, and the angle θ2 is an average value (degrees) of the central angles of two second circular sectors having the point B1 as a center thereof.
US07821185B2 Display filter and display apparatus having the same
A display filter and a display apparatus including the display filter, which can increase a contrast ratio in a bright room, and prevent a moiré phenomenon and a Newton's ring phenomenon, are provided. The display filter includes: a filter base; an external light-shielding layer comprising a base substrate including a transparent resin and light-shielding patterns spaced apart on a surface of the base substrate at predetermined intervals; and a diffusion layer diffusing a light provided from a panel assembly.
US07821178B2 Brush and brush housing arrangement to mitigate hydrodynamic brush lift in fluid-immersed electric motors
A direct current electric motor brush and brush housing arrangement which significantly reduces the effect of brush lift in a brushed motor containing viscous fluid. The brush housing enables viscous fluid to avoid momentum transfer into the brushes by providing two or more pressure relief channels that provide the fluid with direct radial exits along the direction of the brush, potentially reducing the brush lift due to the fluid being forced between a rotating commutator and its associated brushes. The pressure relief channels may be located in the housing immediately adjacent to the brush, being radially disposed to the leading face (or leading and trailing faces) of each brush, or in the leading face (or leading and trailing faces) of each brush itself, and may include additional channels in the housing near but not immediately adjacent the brushes.
US07821177B2 Laminated core
A laminated core includes a laminated body, clamping plates and holding members. The laminated body includes a plurality of amorphous alloy plates, which are stacked one after another in a stacking direction such that each adjacent two of the plurality of amorphous alloy plates directly contact with each other. The clamping plates contact opposed end surfaces, respectively, of the laminated body in the stacking direction. A thickness of each of the first and second clamping plates in the stacking direction is larger than that of each of the plurality of amorphous alloy plates. Each holding member contacts with the clamping plates and maintains a predetermined space between the clamping plates while the laminated body is clamped between the clamping plates.
US07821172B2 Motor stator with different winding volume for different stator teeth
A device includes a stator lamination of a stator for a motor with a first set of stator teeth and a second set of stator teeth, a first set of windings with wire having a first diameter on the first set of stator teeth and a second set of wire windings with wire having a second diameter. The second diameter is greater than the first diameter. The first and seconds sets of stator teeth are divided among at least two phases of the motor. Each phase includes an equal number of stator teeth from the first set of stator teeth and an equal number of stator teeth from the second set of stator teeth.
US07821171B2 Generator wedge with reduced eddy current losses
A wedge placed between adjacent coils in a generator comprises a wedge body having a generally triangular portion to be positioned at a radially inner location, and a radially outer portion. The radially outer portion includes ends that will be spaced at axial ends of the wedge when the wedge is positioned within a generator. The ends have a first surface spaced a first distance from an apex of the triangle. The end walls extend above the first surface at each of two spaced positions axially inwardly of the ends of the wedge. The end walls are connected to side walls that extend near circumferential edges of the wedge. An open pocket is formed within the wedge body at locations between the side walls and axially between the end walls.
US07821164B2 Method and apparatus for a superconducting generator driven by wind turbine
A generator including: an annular armature connectable to rotate with blades of a wind turbine; an annular stationary field winding assembly coaxial with the armature and separated by a gap from an inside surface of the armature, wherein the field winding include superconducting coils, and support structure connectable to an upper region of a tower of the wind turbine.
US07821163B2 Electric panel
A panel is provided on a front side of an electronic device. A driving unit opens and closes the panel. A position detecting unit detects whether the panel is open. An object detecting unit detects whether there is an object on the panel when the panel is open. A control unit controls the driving unit not to close the panel when there is an object on the panel.
US07821162B2 Low-voltage dips generator device
The invention relates to a device for generating low-voltage dips in an electrical power generator (2), particularly an aerogenerator, consisting of: a circuit which is disposed between the control cabinet (4) of the generator and the output transformer (3) to the network (30), comprising a transformer (31) and a plurality of in-series impedances (11, 14, 17; 12, 15, 18; 13, 16, 19) for each phase, having switches (24, 25, 26; 20, 21, 22; 27) associated therewith; and short-circuit generator means, selectively actuating the switches as a function of the type of voltage dip required.
US07821159B2 Metering pump power source
A power supply system includes an energy generator and an energy storage system, each electrically connected to a power bus. The power bus provides electrical power to a load. The energy generator includes a wind turbine and a solar panel. The energy storage system includes a storage device and a regulator. The regulator is configured to transfer energy from the power bus to the storage device when the power bus exceeds a maximum voltage and to transfer energy from the storage device to the power bus when the power bus drops below a minimum voltage.
US07821158B2 System and method for liquid air production, power storage and power release
Systems and methods for storing and releasing energy comprising directing inlet air into a vertical cold flue assembly, a portion of moisture being removed from the air within the cold flue assembly. The air is directed out of the cold flue assembly and compressed. The remaining moisture is substantially removed and the carbon dioxide is removed from the air by adsorption. The air is cooled in a main heat exchanger such that it is substantially liquefied using refrigerant loop air, The substantially liquefied air is directed to a storage apparatus. The refrigerant loop air is cooled by a mechanical chiller and by a plurality of refrigerant loop air expanders. In energy release mode, working loop air warms the released liquid air such that the released liquid air is substantially vaporized, and the released liquid air cools the working loop air such that the working loop air is substantially liquefied. A portion of the released liquid air is directed to the at least one generator and used as bearing air for the at least one generator. The substantially vaporized air is directed to a combustion chamber and combusted with a fuel stream. Combustion gas may be directed from the combustion chamber to at least one expander, the expanded combustion gas split into two portions. The first portion may be directed to a first heat exchanger, and the second portion may be directed to a second heat exchanger such that the second portion heats and substantially vaporizes the released liquid air.
US07821157B2 Method and device for injecting reactive current during a mains supply voltage dip
The invention relates to a method and device for injecting current during a mains supply voltage dip. The inventive method consists in permanently monitoring the magnitude and phase of the mains supply voltage and, upon detection of a voltage dip, injecting reactive current in the affected main supply phase(s) in a manner that can vary over the duration of the voltage dip, at very short intervals, proportionally to the magnitude of the dip, thereby absorbing the necessary active current. The device comprises a voltage measurement switch, a transformer (low voltage/medium voltage), a DC/AC inverter, a capacitor, a voltage dip detection circuit, and a control circuit.
US07821155B2 Power supply systems for dispensers and methods of powering dispensers
In one embodiment, a power system for a plurality of dispensers comprises an AC transformer to receive a line voltage and generate an output voltage of about 2 volts AC to about 50 volts AC; a plurality of dispensers, each housing at least one electrical component operatively configured to dispense product through a dispensing aperture, each of the dispensers comprising a battery compartment; and a plurality of power converters adapted to be at least partially disposed within the battery compartments such that at least one power converter is associated with each dispenser, the converters disposed in communication with the AC transformer such that the power converters receive the output voltage and provide a DC voltage to one or more electrical components housed within the dispensers.
US07821151B2 Hybrid solar thermal chimney
A solar power arrangement for converting solar energy into electricity comprising; a solar chimney, the chimney having a flared base spaced from the ground the chimney including a transparent surface to allow solar energy to heat air within the solar chimney. A first air turbine drives a first generator, and the chimney including an exhaust. The first air turbine drives an air compressor and wherein the compressor includes an ambient air intake and a plurality of pipes for receiving compressed attached to the solar chimney. A plurality of heliostats focus solar energy on the pipes to heat the compressed air contained therein and a second turbine driven by expansion of the compressed air wherein the second turbine drives a second generator.
US07821147B2 Rapid response portable hybrid emergency energy generator
A portable, tow-able, buoyant hybrid renewable energy platform for producing and storing electrical energy using wind, water, and solar power, or a combination of these methods. Included on this platform is a wind turbine that semi-detaches to become a water turbine, if necessary. A small fuel backup generator is provided for, as is a system for air-portage and stabilizing the device.
US07821146B2 Parallel starting system having a low wiring expenditure
A starter system for starting internal combustion engines including a plurality of starters connected in parallel, each having a starter motor and an engaging relay. This parallel starting system may be implemented simply and cost-effectively if at least one of the starters includes a power relay which switches the primary current path to the associated starter motor, and the engaging relay, the power relay, and the starter motor are implemented as a structural unit.
US07821145B2 Aircraft engine starter/generator and controller
An aircraft starting and generating system includes a starter/generator that includes a main machine, an exciter, and a permanent magnet generator. The system also includes an inverter/converter/controller that is connected to the starter/generator and that generates AC power to drive the starter/generator in a start mode for starting a prime mover of the aircraft, and that converts AC power, obtained from the starter/generator after the prime mover have been started, to DC power in a generate mode of the starter/generator. The exciter includes a stator and a rotor, and wherein the exciter rotor includes a three-phase AC winding.
US07821142B2 Intermediate semiconductor device structures
An alignment mark mask element protects an underlying alignment mark during subsequent processing of a fabrication substrate. The alignment mark mask element is formed concurrent with formation of a photomask from a dual-tone photoresist that exhibits a pattern reversal upon exposure to an energy level. A portion of the dual-tone photoresist above the alignment mark is exposed to an energy sufficient to reverse a positive tone resist to a negative tone, which remains above the alignment mark after developing. The remainder of the dual-tone photoresist is exposed through a reticle at a lesser energy level and patterned to define aperture locations of a photomask for formation of semiconductor device features. In addition, a photomask for use on a fabrication substrate and an intermediate semiconductor device are disclosed. Methods of forming a photomask and an intermediate semiconductor device structure are also disclosed.
US07821141B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device including: a heat sink, a die on the heat sink, resin encapsulating the die, and a mounting aperture in the resin having at least a segment between the heat sink and a first end of the resin, wherein the thickness of the heat sink is no greater than 35% of the thickness of the device.
US07821136B2 Conductive layers and fabrication methods thereof
Methods for forming conductive layers. A layer of metal composite is applied on a substrate, comprising a plurality of metal flakes, a plurality of nanometer metal spheres, and a plurality of mixed metal precursors. The plurality of mixed metal precursors comprises a mixture of inorganic salts and organic acidic salts. The layer of metal composite is cured to induce an exothermic reaction, thereby forming a conductive layer on the substrate at a relatively low temperature (<200° C.).
US07821134B2 Semiconductor device, electronic device and fabrication method of the same
A semiconductor device includes a lower pad layer, an insulating layer and an upper pad layer. The lower pad layer is provided on a semiconductor substrate. The insulating layer is away from a surrounding of the lower pad layer so that a space having a recess on a surface between the lower pad layer and the insulating layer is formed. The upper pad layer covers over the lower pad layer and the space, extends to an upper face of the insulating layer, and has an area larger than that of the lower pad layer.
US07821120B2 Metal filled through via structure for providing vertical wafer-to-wafer interconnection
A vertical wafer-to-wafer interconnect structure is provided in which a first wafer and a second wafer are mated by way of metal studs that extend from a surface of the first wafer. The metal studs extend from the surface of the first wafer into a corresponding through via of the second wafer. A polyimide coating is present in the through via on mated surfaces of the first and second wafers and on another surface of the second wafer not mated to the first wafer, thus the metal studs provide a continuous metal path from the first wafer through the second wafer. Since only metal studs for the vertical connection are used, no alpha radiation is generated by the metal studs.
US07821118B1 Power distribution pattern for a ball grid array
A reduced inductance power distribution pattern for an integrated circuit (IC) package is disclosed. The IC package can include a die in which the electronic circuitry is formed, a ball grid array (BGA) substrate, and a plurality of conductive balls coupled to the BGA substrate. The IC package can further include a plurality of conductive trace rings routed in parallel, and a plurality of bond wires for coupling the die to the conductive balls via the conductive trace rings.
US07821113B2 Leadframe having delamination resistant die pad
A lead frame (410) including a die pad (100) for mounting at least one integrated circuit (405) thereon and a plurality of lead fingers (413). The die pad (100) includes a metal including substrate (105) having a periphery that includes a plurality of sides (111-114), an intersection of the sides forming corners (115). A first plurality of grooves including least one groove (106) is formed in a top side surface of the substrate and is associated with each of the corners (115). The groove (106) has a dimension oriented at least in part at an angle of 75 to 105 degrees relative to a bisecting line (118) originating from the corners (115). A lead-frame-based packaged semiconductor device (400) includes a lead frame (410) including at least one metal comprising die pad (418) and a plurality of lead fingers (413) around the die pad (418). At least one integrated circuit (405) is mounted on the top surface of the die pad (418), and electrically connected to the plurality of lead fingers (413). A mold compound (414) encapsulates the integrated circuit (405), wherein the mold compound (414) is present inside the first plurality of grooves to form a restraint from delaminating between the mold compound (414) and the die pad (418).
US07821111B2 Semiconductor device having grooved leads to confine solder wicking
A packaged surface-mount semiconductor device has the outer, un-encapsulated lead segments structured in five adjoining portions: The first portion protrudes from the encapsulation about horizontally; the second portion forms a convex bend downwardly; the third portion is approximately straight downwardly; the fourth portion forms a concave bend upwardly; and the fifth portion is straight horizontally. Each segment has across the width a first groove in the third portion, either on the bottom surface or on the top surface. Preferably, the groove is about 2 leadframe thicknesses vertically over the bottom surface of the fifth lead portion. When stamped, the groove may have an angular outline about 5 and 50 μm deep; when etched, the groove may have an approximately semicircular outline about 50 to 125 μm deep. A second groove may be located in the second segment portion; a third groove may be located in the transition region from the third to the fourth segment portions.
US07821110B2 Circuit structures and methods with BEOL layer(s) configured to block electromagnetic interference
Back end of line (BEOL) circuit structures and methods are provided for blocking externally-originating or internally-originating electromagnetic interference. One such BEOL circuit structure includes one or more semiconductor substrates supporting one or more integrated circuits, and one or more BEOL layers disposed over the semiconductor substrate(s). At least one BEOL layer includes a conductive pattern defined at least partially by a plurality of elements arrayed in a first direction and a second direction throughout at least a portion thereof. The plurality of elements are sized and positioned in at least one of the first and second directions to block electromagnetic interference of a particular wavelength from passing therethrough. In one implementation, a first conductive pattern of a first BEOL layer polarizes electromagnetic interference, and a second conductive pattern of a second BEOL layer blocks the polarized electromagnetic interference.
US07821108B2 Systems and methods for lowering interconnect capacitance through adjustment of relative signal levels
Methods and circuitry for lowering the capacitance of interconnects, particularly Through Wafer Interconnects (TWIs), using signal level adjustment are disclosed. Embodiments of the invention seek to bias the midpoint voltage level of the signals on the TWIs towards inversion, where at high frequencies capacitance is at its minimum. In one embodiment, reduced swing signals are used for the data states transmitted across the TWIs, in which the reduced swing signals use a midpoint voltage level tending to bias the TWI capacitance towards inversion. In another embodiment, signals are AC coupled to the TWI where they are referenced to an explicit bias voltage directly connected to the TWI. This allows signals to propagate through the TWI while the TWI is biased towards inversion. In a third embodiment, the potential of the substrate is explicitly lowered with respect to the TWI potential. Regardless of the particular embodiment used, raising the midpoint-voltage level of the signals on the TWIs relative to the substrate decreases capacitance, which increases the frequency of the data which can propagate through the TWIs while potentially reducing the signaling power.
US07821103B2 Counter-doped varactor structure and method
An improved varactor diode (40) is obtained by providing a substrate (41) having a first surface (43), in which are formed a P+ region (53, 46) proximate the first surface (43), a first N region (54, 45) located beneath the P+ region (53, 46), an N well region (56, 44) located beneath the first N region (54, 45) and a first P counter-doped region (55) located between the first N region (54, 45) and the N well region (56, 44), thereby forming an P+NPN structure for the varactor diode. In some embodiments, a second P-type counter-doped region (59) is provided within the N-well region (56, 44) so as to reduce the N doping concentration within the N well region (56, 44) but without creating a further PN junction therein. The net doping profile (52) provides varactor diodes (40) having a larger tuning ratio than varactors (20) without such counter-doped regions. By interchanging N and P regions an N+PNP varactor is obtained.
US07821102B2 Power transistor featuring a double-sided feed design and method of making the same
A power transistor (210) comprises a plurality of unit cell devices (212), a base contact configuration, an emitter contact configuration, and a collector contact configuration. The plurality of unit cell devices is arranged along an axis (194), each unit cell device including base (80), emitter (82), and collector (84) portions. The base contact configuration includes (i) a first base feed (150) coupled to the base portion of each unit cell device via a first end of at least one base finger (154) associated with a corresponding unit cell device and (ii) a second base feed (152) coupled to the base portion of each unit cell device via an opposite end of the at least one base finger associated with the corresponding unit cell device. The emitter contact configuration includes (i) a first emitter feed (172) coupled to the emitter portion of each unit cell device via a first end of an emitter metallization (176) associated with a corresponding unit cell device and (ii) a second emitter feed (174) coupled to the emitter portion of each unit cell device via an opposite end of the emitter metallization associated with the corresponding unit cell device. The collector contact configuration includes a collector feed (188) coupled to the collector portion of each unit cell device.
US07821094B2 Light emitting diode structure
A light emitting diode structure has a silicon substrate, a conductive layer, and a light emitting diode. The top surface of the silicon substrate has a cup-structure like paraboloid, and the bottom of the cup-structure has a plurality of through-holes penetrating the silicon substrate. The conductive layer fills up the through-holes and protrudes out from the through-holes. The light emitting diode is disposed on the top of the conductive layer protruding out from the through-holes and is located at the focus of the cup-structure.
US07821093B2 Solid-state imaging device with biased light shielding film
A solid-state imaging device with a structure such that an electrode for reading a signal charge is provided on one side of a light-receiving sensor portion constituting a pixel; a predetermined voltage signal V is applied to a light-shielding film formed to cover an image pickup area except the light-receiving sensor portion; a second-conductivity-type semiconductor area is formed in the center on the surface of a first-conductivity-type semiconductor area constituting a photo-electric conversion area of the light-receiving sensor portion; and areas containing a lower impurity concentration than that of the second-conductivity-type semiconductor area is formed on the surface of the first-conductivity-type semiconductor area at the end on the side of the electrode and at the opposite end on the side of a pixel-separation area.
US07821092B2 Semiconductor device
An open portion is provided to an interlayer insulation film so as to correspond to a photoreceptor part of an optical detection device. A partition wall for surrounding the open portion (120) is formed by a metal material inside a wiring structure layer (90) along the boundary between the photoreceptor part (4) and a circuit part (6). The partition wall is formed by a contact structure having a multi-level structure with respect to a separation region (74) disposed on the external periphery of the photoreceptor part (4). The partition wall prevents moisture absorption and light penetration from the wall surface of the open portion, and suppresses wiring degradation or fluctuation of the characteristics of the circuit elements on the periphery of the photoreceptor part.
US07821089B2 Photodetector array using isolation diffusions as crosstalk inhibitors between adjacent photodiodes
A photodetector array includes a semiconductor substrate having opposing first and second main surfaces, a first layer of a first doping concentration proximate the first main surface, and a second layer of a second doping concentration proximate the second main surface. The photodetector includes at least one conductive via formed in the first main surface and an anode/cathode region proximate the first main surface and the at least one conductive via. The via extends to the second main surface. The conductive via is isolated from the semiconductor substrate by a first dielectric material. The anode/cathode region is a second conductivity opposite to the first conductivity. The photodetector includes a doped isolation region of a third doping concentration formed in the first main surface and extending through the first layer of the semiconductor substrate to at least the second layer of the semiconductor substrate.
US07821087B2 Spin transfer magnetic element having low saturation magnetization free layers
A method and system for providing a magnetic element that can be used in a magnetic memory is disclosed. The magnetic element includes pinned, nonmagnetic spacer, and free layers. The spacer layer resides between the pinned and free layers. The free layer can be switched using spin transfer when a write current is passed through the magnetic element. The magnetic element may also include a barrier layer, a second pinned layer. Alternatively, second pinned and second spacer layers and a second free layer magnetostatically coupled to the free layer are included. In one aspect, the free layer(s) include ferromagnetic material(s) diluted with nonmagnetic material(s) and/or ferrimagnetically doped to provide low saturation magnetization(s).
US07821085B2 Physical quantity sensor and method for manufacturing the same
A physical quantity sensor includes: a sensor substrate including a first support substrate, a first insulation film and a first semiconductor layer, which are stacked in this order; a cap substrate including a second support substrate disposed on the first semiconductor layer, and has a P conductive type; and multiple electrodes, which are separated from each other. The first support substrate, the first insulation film and the first semiconductor layer have the P conductive type. The physical quantity is detected based on a capacitance between the plurality of electrodes, and the electrodes are disposed in the first semiconductor layer.
US07821082B1 Method for increasing breaking down voltage of lateral diffused metal oxide semiconductor transistor
A lateral diffused metal oxide semiconductor transistor is disclosed. A p-type bulk is disposed on a substrate. An n-type well region is disposed in the p-type bulk. A plurality of field oxide layers are disposed on the p-type bulk and the n-type well region. A gate structure is disposed on a portion of the p-type bulk and one of the plurality of field oxide layers. At least one deep trench isolation structure is disposed in the p-type bulk and adjacent to the n-type well region.
US07821081B2 Method and apparatus for flatband voltage tuning of high-k field effect transistors
In one embodiment, the invention is a method and apparatus for flatband voltage tuning of high-k field effect transistors. One embodiment of a field effect transistor includes a substrate, a high-k dielectric layer deposited on the substrate, a gate electrode deposited on the high-k dielectric layer, and a dipole layer positioned between the substrate and the gate electrode, for shifting the threshold voltage of the field effect transistor.
US07821073B2 Patterned backside stress engineering for transistor performance optimization
Some embodiments of the present invention include selectively inducing back side stress opposite transistor regions to optimize transistor performance.
US07821071B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
An object of the present invention is to prevent the deterioration of a TFT (thin film transistor). The deterioration of the TFT by a BT test is prevented by forming a silicon oxide nitride film between the semiconductor layer of the TFT and a substrate, wherein the silicon oxide nitride film ranges from 0.3 to 1.6 in a ratio of the concentration of N to the concentration of Si.
US07821068B2 Device and process involving pinhole undercut area
An electronic device fabrication method including: (a) providing a dielectric region and a lower electrically conductive region, wherein the dielectric region includes a plurality of pinholes each with an entry and an exit; and (b) depositing an etchant for the lower electrically conductive region into the pinholes that undercuts the pinholes to create for a number of the pinholes an overhanging surface of the dielectric region around the exit facing an undercut area of the lower electrically conductive region wider than the exit.
US07821065B2 Semiconductor device comprising a thin film transistor comprising a semiconductor thin film and method of manufacturing the same
An object of the present invention is to provide a semiconductor device having high operation characteristic and reliability.The measures taken are: A pixel capacitor is formed between an electrode comprising anodic capable material over an organic resin film, an anodic oxide film of the electrode and a pixel electrode above. Since the anodic oxide film is anodically oxidized by applied voltage per unit time at 15 V/min, there is no wrap around on the electrode, and film peeling can be prevented.
US07821060B2 Semiconductor device including trench gate transistor and method of forming the same
A semiconductor device includes an active region having a groove, a gate insulating film, and a gate electrode. The gate electrode may include first and second layers. The first layer extends along the gate insulating film. The first layer is electrically conductive. The second layer extends along the first layer. The second layer is separate from the gate insulating film by the first layer.
US07821044B2 Transistor with improved tip profile and method of manufacture thereof
Embodiments are an improved transistor structure and the method of fabricating the structure. In particular, a wet etch of an embodiment forms source and drain regions with an improved tip shape to improve the performance of the transistor by improving control of short channel effects, increasing the saturation current, improving control of the metallurgical gate length, increasing carrier mobility, and decreasing contact resistance at the interface between the source and drain and the silicide.
US07821041B2 Electrical fuse circuit for security applications
A fuse circuit is disclosed, which comprises at least one electrical fuse element having a resistance that changes after being stressed in an electromigration mode, a switching device serially coupled with the electrical fuse element in a predetermined path between a fuse programming power supply (VDDQ) and a low voltage power supply (GND) for selectively allowing a programming current passing through the electrical fuse element during a programming operation, and at least one peripheral circuit coupled to the VDDQ, wherein the peripheral circuit is active and draws current from the VDDQ during a fuse programming operation.
US07821040B2 Thin film transistor substrate and fabricating method thereof
A thin film transistor substrate and fabricating method thereof by which the size of the thin film transistor substrate is reduced by constructing data signal supply lines, each of which supplies a pixel data voltage to a data line, with different metal lines, respectively includes gate and data lines crossing each other on a substrate, with a gate insulating layer disposed therebetween, a thin film transistor formed on each intersection between the gate and data lines, a display area on which a pixel electrode connected to the thin film transistor is formed, a first data signal supply line comprising a first conductive layer connected to the data line in a non-display area located at a periphery of the display area, and a second data signal supply line alternating with the first data signal supply line, with the gate insulating layer disposed therebetween, the second data signal supply line comprising a second conductive layer connected to the data line.
US07821039B2 Layout architecture for improving circuit performance
An integrated circuit structure includes an integrated circuit structure including a PMOS transistor including a first gate electrode; a first source region; and a first drain region; an NMOS transistor including a second gate electrode, wherein the first gate electrode and the second gate electrode are portions of a gate electrode strip; a second source region; and a second drain region. No additional transistors are formed between the PMOS transistor and the NMOS transistor. The integrated circuit further includes a VDD power rail connected to the first source region; a VSS power rail connected to the second source region; and an interconnection port electrically connected to the gate electrode strip. The interconnection port is on an outer side of a MOS pair region including the PMOS transistor, the NMOS transistor, and the region between the PMOS transistor and the NMOS transistor. The portion of the gate electrode strip in the MOS pair region is substantially straight.
US07821038B2 Power and ground routing of integrated circuit devices with improved IR drop and chip performance
An integrated circuit chip with reduced IR drop and improved chip performance is disclosed. The integrated circuit chip includes a semiconductor substrate having thereon a plurality of inter-metal dielectric (IMD) layers and a plurality of copper metal layers embedded in respective the plurality of IMD layers; a first passivation layer overlying the plurality of IMD layers and the plurality of copper metal layers; a first power/ground ring of a circuit block of the integrated circuit chip formed in a topmost layer of the plurality of copper metal layers; a second power/ground ring of the circuit block of the integrated circuit chip formed in an aluminum layer over the first passivation layer; and a second passivation layer covering the second power/ground ring and the first passivation layer.
US07821033B2 Semiconductor component comprising a drift zone and a drift control zone
A semiconductor component is disclosed herein comprising a drift zone and a drift control zone. The drift control zone is arranged adjacent to the drift zone and is dielectrically insulated from the drift zone by a dielectric layer. The drift control zone includes at least one first semiconductor layer and one second semiconductor layer. The first semiconductor layer has a higher charge carrier mobility than the second semiconductor layer.
US07821031B2 Switch circuit, semiconductor device, and method of manufacturing said semiconductor device
A switch circuit includes: a first FET that is connected to one of an input terminal and an output terminal, and performs ON/OFF operation under the control of a gate electrode connected to a control terminal; and a second FET that is connected between the first FET and the other one of the input terminal and the output terminal, and performs ON/OFF operation under the control of a gate electrode connected to the control terminal. The first FET has a higher gate backward breakdown voltage than that of the second FET. Alternatively, the first FET has lower OFF capacitance than that of the second FET.
US07821030B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device includes a first semiconductor layer which is formed above a substrate, a Schottky electrode and an ohmic electrode which are formed on the first semiconductor layer to be spaced from each other and a second semiconductor layer which is formed to cover the first semiconductor layer with the Schottky electrode and the ohmic electrode exposed. The second semiconductor layer has a larger band gap than that of the first semiconductor layer.
US07821025B2 Semiconductor light emitting unit, method for manufacturing same and linear light source
A semiconductor light emitting unit is provided which comprises: a support 1 formed with longitudinal side walls 15 disposed opposite to each other for forming a pair of light reflective surfaces 9, and a bottom wall 16 connected to longitudinal side walls 15 for forming a mount surface 3a between light reflective surfaces 9 to form a channel 3 by longitudinal side walls 15 and bottom wall 16 above mount surface 3a. Formed at either end of channel 3 in the longitudinal direction of support 1 is a vertical opening 18 which serves to directly communicate channels 3 of adjacent light emitting units when plural semiconductor light emitting units are lengthwise arranged, so that there is no lateral side wall 15 obstructing path of light radiated from LED chips 2 toward outside to thereby irradiate uniform light to outside along the longitudinal direction of linear light source.
US07821023B2 Solid state lighting component
An LED component comprising an array of LED chips mounted on a planar surface of a submount with the LED chips capable of emitting light in response to an electrical signal. The LED chips comprise respective groups emitting at different colors of light, with each of the groups interconnected in a series circuit. A lens is included over the LED chips. Other embodiments can comprise thermal spreading structures included integral to the submount and arranged to dissipate heat from the LED chips.
US07821019B2 Triple heterostructure incorporating a strained zinc oxide layer for emitting light at high temperatures
A heterostructure semiconductor device capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation and having a junction with opposite conductivity type materials on either side thereof supported on a substrate with an active layer therebetween comprising zinc oxide and having a band gap energy that is less than that of either of the opposite conductivity type materials.
US07821018B2 GaN-based semiconductor light-emitting device and method for the fabrication thereof
A GaN-based semiconductor light-emitting device 1 includes a stacked body 10A having the component layers 12 that include an n-type semiconductor layer, a light-emitting layer and a p-type semiconductor layer each formed of a GaN-based semiconductor, sequentially stacked and provided as an uppermost layer with a first bonding layer 14 made of metal and a second bonding layer 33 formed on an electroconductive substrate 31, adapted to have bonded to the first bonding layer 14 the surface thereof lying opposite the side on which the electroconductive substrate 31 is formed, made of a metal of the same crystal structure as the first bonding layer 14, and allowed to exhibit an identical crystal orientation in the perpendicular direction of the bonding surface and the in-plane direction of the bonding surface.
US07821017B2 Light-emitting diode and method for fabricating the same
The invention discloses a method for fabricating a light-emitting diode. In an embodiment of the invention, the method comprises the following steps of (a) preparing a substrate; (b) forming an epitaxial layer on the substrate, wherein the epitaxial layer has an upper surface; (c) forming a mask layer on a first region of the upper surface of the epitaxial layer; (d) forming a semiconductor multi-layer structure on a second region of the upper surface of the epitaxial layer, wherein the second region is distinct from the first region; (e) removing the mask layer formed on the first region of the upper surface of the epitaxial layer; and (f) forming an electrode on the first region of the upper surface of the epitaxial layer.
US07821016B2 Light activated silicon controlled switch
The present invention provides an optically triggered switch and a method of forming the optically triggered switch. The optically triggered switch includes a silicon layer having at least one trench formed therein and at least one silicon diode formed in the silicon layer. The switch also includes a first thyristor formed in the silicon layer. The first thyristor is physically and electrically isolated from the silicon diode by the trench and the first thyristor is configured to turn on in response to electromagnetic radiation generated by the silicon diode.
US07821003B2 Thin-film transistor substrate and display device having the same
Provided are a thin-film transistor (TFT) substrate and a display device having the same. In the TFT substrate and the display device having the same, first and second drain electrodes of first and second TFTs connected to first and second pixel electrodes, respectively, are vertically bent a plurality of times. The distance between each of the first and second source electrodes and the first or second drain electrode is maintained at a minimum interline gap to increase the distance between a data line and each of the first and second drain electrodes and minimize the length of a region of each of the first and second drain electrodes adjacent to the data line. Consequently, a coupling capacitance between the data line and each of the first and second drain electrodes can be reduced, and each unit pixel region can have a uniform parasite capacitance within a predetermined range. In addition, the luminance deviation of a display device, which performs inversion driving, can be reduced.
US07821002B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
The semiconductor device has a semiconductor layer, a gate electrode which covers an end portion of the semiconductor layer, and an insulating layer for insulating the semiconductor layer and the gate electrode. The film thickness of the insulating layer which insulates a region where an end portion of the semiconductor layer and the gate electrode overlap each other is thicker than the film thickness of the insulating layer which covers the central portion of the semiconductor layer.
US07821000B2 Method of doping organic semiconductors
An apparatus has a crystalline organic semiconducting region that includes polyaromatic molecules. A source electrode and a drain electrode of a field-effect transistor are both in contact with the crystalline organic semiconducting region. A gate electrode of the field-effect transistor is located to affect the conductivity of the crystalline organic semiconducting region between the source and drain electrodes. A dielectric layer of a first dielectric that is substantially impermeable to oxygen is in contact with the crystalline organic semiconducting region. The crystalline organic semiconducting region is located between the dielectric layer and a substrate. The gate electrode is located on the dielectric layer. A portion of the crystalline organic semiconducting region is in contact with a second dielectric via an opening in the dielectric layer. A physical interface is located between the second dielectric and the first dielectric.
US07820995B2 Component for a household appliance, in particular for a dishwasher, and sump for a household appliance, in particular for a dishwasher, using it
The present invention relates to a component for a household appliance, in particular for a dishwasher, and to a sump for a household appliance, in particular for a dishwasher, using it. Both the component and the sump are adapted to detect and/or control the level of a liquid in a tub. The component and/or the sump comprise a light transmitter adapted to generate a light beam, a light receiver adapted to receive the said light beam, and at least one optical element, in particular made of transparent material, adapted to affect the said beam depending on the content of the tub.
US07820993B2 Multi-layered radiation protection wall and radiation protection chamber
The invention relates to a multi-layered radiation protection wall for shielding against gamma and/or particle radiation of a reaction site of an accelerator facility, wherein the radiation protection wall comprises a sandwich-like structure with at least a first and a second layer arrangement, wherein the first layer arrangement has at least a primary shielding layer and the second layer arrangement has at least a secondary shielding layer. Thereby, at least one of the first and the second layer arrangements is sub-divided into a plurality of wall segments, whereby a selective disposal is made possible. Thus an increased cost efficiency is achieved and the environmental impact is lowered.
US07820990B2 System, method and apparatus for RF directed energy
Systems and methods are disclosed for emitting electromagnetic (EM) energy. A source emits EM energy that is incident on a first material. The first material transmits EM energy to a second material. The second material can have a first surface adjacent to the first material and a thickness and shape selected to stimulate surface plasmon polaritons on the first surface of the second material to resonate the EM energy transmitted from the first material such that the resonated EM energy has an EM wavelength in a narrow field of view with substantially no sidelobes.
US07820988B2 Implant uniformity control
An apparatus and method for ion implantation that include destabilizing the ion beam as it passes through magnetic field, preferably a dipole magnetic field is disclosed. By introducing a bias voltage at certain points within the magnetic field, electrons from the plasma are drawn toward the magnet, thereby causing the ion beam to expand due to space charge effects. The bias voltage can be introduced into the magnet in a region where the magnetic field has only one component. Alternatively, the bias voltage can be in a region wherein the magnetic field has two components.
US07820987B2 Predicting dose repeatability in an ion implantation
An approach for predicting dose repeatability in an ion implantation is described. In one embodiment, an ion source is tuned to generate an ion beam with desired beam current. Beam current measurements are obtained from the tuned ion beam. The dose repeatability is predicted for the ion implantation as a function of the beam current measurements.
US07820984B2 Measuring device and measuring method
A measuring device includes a light source, a holding member for holding a sample, a first concave mirror and a second concave mirror, the second concave mirror being arranged on the light path from the light source to the holding member, the first concave mirror being arranged vis-a-vis the second concave mirror with the holding member interposed between them, the first concave mirror and the second concave mirror being arranged with their concave surfaces facing each other, the first concave mirror being larger than the second concave mirror in terms of their outer dimensions.
US07820981B2 Method and apparatus for extending equipment uptime in ion implantation
The service lifetime of an ion source is enhanced or prolonged by the source having provisions for in-situ etch cleaning of the ion source and of an extraction electrode, using reactive halogen gases (F or Cl), and by having features that extend the service duration between cleanings. The latter include accurate vapor flow control, accurate focusing of the ion beam optics, and thermal control of the extraction electrode that prevents formation of deposits or prevents electrode destruction. An apparatus comprised of an ion source for generating dopant ions for semiconductor wafer processing is coupled to a remote plasma source which delivers F or Cl ions to the first ion source for the purpose of cleaning deposits in the first ion source and the extraction electrode. These methods and apparatus enable long equipment uptime when running condensable feed gases such as sublimated vapor sources, and are particularly applicable for use with so-called cold ion sources. Methods and apparatus are described which enable long equipment uptime when decaborane and octadecarborane are used as feed materials, as well as when vaporized elemental arsenic and phosphorus are used, and which serve to enhance beam stability during ion implantation.
US07820980B2 High speed combination multi-mode ionization source for mass spectrometers
The present invention combines ionization modes produced by, for example, electrospray (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), and thermospray for analysis of molecules. Specifically, this invention relates to the creation of a new source apparatus combining APCI and ESI which will interface with existing mass spectrometers, as well as the creation of new mass spectrometers where the present invention would be the ionization source. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an ionization source for a mass spectrometer which features an ion chamber defining an ion path, an electrospray probe for ionizing a sample using electrospray ionization, a corona discharge needle for ionizing a sample using atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, a power supply for applying an electrical potential to one of said electrospray probe and said corona discharge needle, and a solid state switch for directing the electrical potential from the power supply to one of the electrospray probe and said corona discharge needle.
US07820978B2 Charged-particle beam system
A charged-particle beam system has a demagnifying lens for reducing the dimensions of an electron beam produced from an electron beam source, an objective lens for focusing the demagnified beam onto the surface of a target, a first deflector located before the demagnifying lens, a second deflector placed such that the deflection field produced by it is totally or partially superimposed on the objective lens field, and a third deflector located in a stage following the second deflector. An image of the light source is created by the demagnifying lens. An image of the light source image is formed on the target by the objective lens.
US07820973B2 Method of identifying the energy range of radiation from radioactive material and system for detecting the same
A method of identifying the energy range of radiation includes a system having a detector with energy differentiation characteristics, an electronic amplifier of a dual energy window, a data acquisition card, a digital threshold controller, a database, and a radiation energy range display. The system calculates the energy range of radiation through logical comparison, condition correction and mathematical fitting.
US07820972B2 Method of evaluating skin conditions and method of estimating skin thickness
Methods of determining at least one of the degree of skin damage caused by UV light and the degree of physiologically aging of the skin, and methods of estimating at least one of an epidermal skin thickness and a dermal skin thickness by analysis of the near infrared absorption spectrum of skin are disclosed. The near infrared absorption spectrum of skin are analyzed and the obtained analysis result is used for monitoring skin conditions and evaluating cosmetics.
US07820971B2 Photodetector with dark current reduction
A detector of incident infrared radiation has a first region with a first spectral response, and a second region with a second, different spectral response. The second absorption region is stacked on the first and may be separated therefrom by a region in which the chemical composition of the compound semiconductor is graded. Separate contacts are provided to the first and second absorption regions and a further common contact is provided so as to permit the application of either a bias voltage or a skimming voltage across the respective pn junctions. The detector may be operated such that a preselected one of the absorption regions responds to incident infrared radiation of a predetermined waveband while the other absorption region acts as a skimmer of dark current, thereby enhancing the signal to noise ratio of the detector.
US07820967B2 Infrared camera for locating a target using at least one shaped light source
An infrared camera including optics and a detector sensitive to infrared radiation is used in conjunction with at least one light source, such as a laser, to locate a reference point on a target. Two intersecting line segments are produced by the one light source or a combination of two light sources to locate the reference point on the target. The infrared camera would display both an infrared image as well as a visible image which can be merged onto a single display. The teaching of the present invention could also be used to determine the distance to the target as well as the area of the target.
US07820965B2 Apparatus for detecting chemical substances and method therefor
An apparatus for detecting chemical substances which is high in sensitivity and selectivity is provided.An organic acid or an organic acid salt is used to generate an organic acid gas from an organic acid gas generator 3 to be mixed with a sample gas for introduction into an ion source 4 for ionization, thereby obtaining a mass spectrum by a mass analysis region 5. A data processor 6 determines the detection or non-detection of a specific m/z of an organic acid adduct ion obtained by adding a molecule generated from the organic acid to a molecule with specific m/z generated from a target chemical substance to be detected based on the obtained mass spectrum. When there is an ion peak with the m/z of the organic acid adduct ion, the presence of the target chemical substance to be detected is determined, and an alarm is sounded.False detection can be prevented.
US07820963B2 Method for generation and use of isotopic patterns in mass spectral data of simple organisms
A method for identifying a biological analyte that is affected by a stressor is disclosed in which two substantially identical biological samples are provided, with a first sample being a control sample and a second sample being an experimental sample. The control sample is grown with a nutrient having an isotope of a first atom, whereas the experimental sample is grown with a nutrient having a second isotope of the first atom. The experimental sample is grown with a stressing agent and regimen. The samples are admixed, and the formed composite is mass spectroscopically assayed for analyte peaks. The ratio of first isotope to second isotope is determined for the peaks, as is a sample median isotopic ratio. The ratio for assayed analyte peaks is compared with the median ratio. An analyte whose isotopic ratio significantly deviates from the median ratio is an analyte affected by the stressing agent.
US07820960B2 Methods, systems, and computer program products for measuring the density of material including a non-nuclear moisture property detector
The subject matter described herein includes methods, systems, and computer program products for measuring the density of a sample construction material. According to one aspect, a nuclear density gauge is disclosed for measuring the density of a sample construction material. The material measurement gauge includes a radiation source positioned for emitting radiation into a sample construction material. A radiation detector is positioned apart from the radiation source and configured to detect radiation from the sample construction material and to produce a signal representing the detected radiation. A non-nuclear moisture property detector is configured to determine a moisture property of the sample construction material and to produce a signal representing the moisture property. A material property calculation function is configured to calculate a property value associated with the sample construction material based upon the signals representing the detected radiation and the moisture property.
US07820957B2 Optical encoder for detecting movement of a moving object and electronic equipment including the optical encoder
This optical encoder includes a light emitting section and a plurality of light receiving elements placed so as to be aligned in one direction in an area where a light beam from the light emitting section may reach. The moving object includes a light-ON section and a light-OFF section. The light receiving element detects movement of the moving object when the light-ON section and the light-OFF section of the moving object pass through a predetermined position corresponding to the light receiving element A light receiving signal processing section receives inputs of a plurality of light receiving signals with different phases from a plurality of the light receiving elements, performs signal processing including at least one signal processing among a logical operation processing, an addition processing, and a subtraction processing on a plurality of the light receiving signals, and outputs an output signal containing a plurality of signal components which are different in phase and different in signal level with respect to a predetermined threshold level.
US07820951B2 Microwave assisted chemical synthesis instrument with controlled pressure release
An instrument for carrying out controlled microwave assisted chemical processes, and that is particularly useful for handling relatively small samples. The instrument includes a microwave-transparent reaction vessel with an open mouth, a pressure-resistant seal on the mouth of the vessel, and a needle, portions of which penetrate the seal with a first end of the needle and provide fluid communication into the vessel. A pressure transducer is at the opposite end of the needle and in fluid communication with the interior of the vessel through the needle. The instrument defines a pressure control flow path from a portion of the needle outside of the vessel to a fluid port, the flow path being in communication with the needle, the interior of the vessel and the transducer. A controllable pressure release valve for the flow path is associated with the port.
US07820948B1 Brewing machine/satellite contactless power and communication transfer-enabling system and method
The present invention provides a system for enabling control of the temperature of a receptacle in a satellite for containing a brewed fluid, so as to enable control of the temperature of the brewed fluid in the receptacle upon transfer of the brewed fluid from a brewing machine into the receptacle. The control of the temperature of the receptacle is responsive to contactless and wireless transfer of power and communication between the brewing machine and the satellite, and to generating, communicating, and processing fluid temperature measurement-enabling data between the brewing machine and the satellite, so as to enable control of the temperature of the brewed fluid.
US07820946B2 Heated hydration system
A method and portable hydration system can include a conduit coupled to a bite valve and a reservoir. The conduit and the bite valve facilitate human consumption of fluid in the reservoir. The system may also include an active heating assembly to prevent the fluid from freezing while in the conduit and the bite valve. The active heating assembly may include a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the conduit, a heating element to heat the conduit and a controller coupled to the temperature sensor and the heating element to control heating of the conduit.
US07820944B2 Spectroscopic technique for measuring the composition of cored wire electrodes
Provided are procedures and arrangements for determining composition of cored welding wire electrodes. A portion of a length of a cored welding wire electrode is detached, to serve as a sample portion. The sample portion is provided to a digestion vessel, where it is digested into a sample solution. The sample solution is provided to an analytical device which analyzes the sample solution to determine the elements and concentrations of elements which comprise the sample solution.
US07820941B2 Process and apparatus for scoring a brittle material
The present invention relates to a process for laser scoring of flat glass sheets. The process comprises manipulating a laser beam having a substantially Gaussian intensity profile to produce an elongated heating zone on the glass sheet to be scored, the elongated heating zone having a central portion with a lower temperature than a temperature of an outer portion of the heating zone. An initial crack is made in the glass sheet, the elongated heating zone is traversed across the glass sheet coincident with the initial crack, and the heated glass is thermally shocked by directing a cooled liquid against the heated glass, thus propagating the crack. The scored glass sheet may thereafter be broken by applying bending techniques as are known in the art.
US07820938B2 Butt welding method of two sheet metals in a continuous line processing installation
A method is provided for adjusting the thickness of the welding bead of two bands obtained by butt welding by means of a laser beam without using filler material. The bands are clamped in jaws, both cut edges being spaced apart by a reference distance. Then the mobile jaw is moved along a travel. Said travel differs from said reference distance by an offset calculated in relation to the thickness of the bands, and while taking into account the degree of accuracy of the positioning and of the cut of said edges. The offset is counted as positive or negative, in order to obtain a final welding position such that it exists, between the edges, an actual allowance, positive or negative, adapted to the thickness of the bands.
US07820934B2 Method for fixing an element in an electrical apparatus and an electrical apparatus including two parts fixed according to such a method
A method for fixing an element to a part of an electrical apparatus may include interposing an extender between the element and the part, where the extender is able to exert forces on the element and the part to position the element with respect to the part and/or to secure the element in position with respect to the part, by friction between one side of the extender and the element and between another side of the extender and the part, and to ensure positioning and/or securing of the element with respect to the part prior to final fixing, and to perform final fixing by performing two welding operations respectively between the element and the extender and between the extender and the part.
US07820933B2 Puffer circuit breaker with an overpressure valve
A circuit breaker comprises a puffer volume (9) and at least one overpressure valve (16) for discharging gas from the puffer volume (9), if the pressure therein exceeds a given threshold. The overpressure valve (16) is formed by a piston (17) and a spring (19) as well as by a cavity (18) in the stationary support body (10) of the moveable contact assembly (2). The overpressure valve (16) is of compact and simple design, has low hysteresis and large cross-section.
US07820930B2 Low-profile switch mechanism
A switch mechanism includes a frame, an electrical switch on the frame, a lever extending from the frame alongside the switch and including an activation portion whereupon deflection of the lever, the activation portion bears upon the switch so as to activate the switch A force-transfer device associated with the frame moves upon user-activation to deflect the lever. Furthermore, the present switch mechanism is not limited in its application to ON-OFF switches as it could be equally applied to other function switches of low-profile devices.
US07820923B1 Method and apparatus for weighing moving articles
A weigh-on-the-fly WOF module for weighing a mail piece as it is being sorted by a mail sort machine. The piece is delivered to entry pinch rollers in the WOF module which, in turn, deliver the piece into pinch at an acceleration roller. The thickness of the piece is measured the pinch at the acceleration roller is adjusted to reduce drag on the mail piece during acceleration. The acceleration roller is driven by a constant torque motor at a first known or measured velocity V1 which is increased to second known or measured velocity V2 when the mail piece arrives. The time of acceleration from V1 to V2 is measured. Once the velocities and the time of acceleration are known, the weigh of that particular mail piece can be calculated using the formula: F=ma wherein F=force or torque m=mass or weight; and a=acceleration or (V2−V1)/time.
US07820919B2 Electronic circuit packages
This invention relates to electronic circuit packages designed to hold high frequency circuits operating particularly, but not exclusively, in the microwave, millimeter wave, and sub-millimeter wave bands. The invention provides a package incorporating a cavity in a material for containment of the circuits, wherein the package further incorporates at least one conductive surface mounted on an inner surface extending into the cavity, the conductivity thereof being adapted to be at least partially absorbent to electromagnetic radiation. The conductive surface according to the present invention will tend to attenuate electromagnetic radiation present within the cavity, and so help to prevent undesired coupling from one point to another within the cavity. The conductivity of the conductive material is preferably arranged to match the impedance of the radiation mode estimated or computed to be present within the cavity.
US07820914B2 Insulated wire and a wiring harness
An insulated wire possessing preferable flame retardancy, water resistance and wear resistance. The insulated wire including an insulator layer made from a composition including 96 to 44 parts by weight of (A) a polyester type resin, 4 to 56 parts by weight of (B) a polyphenylene ether type resin, 1 to 70 parts by weight of (C) one or more than one sort of polymer selected from the group consisting of a styrene type polymer, an olefin type polymer including a functional group, and a polymer including an ester group with respect to 100 parts by weight of (A) the polyester type resin and (B) the polyphenylene ether type resin, and 1 to 50 parts by weight of (D) a phosphoester compound with respect to 100 parts by weight of (A) the polyester type resin and (B) the polyphenylene ether type resin.
US07820909B2 Tamper-resistant electrical wiring device system
A tamper-resistant electrical receptacle includes a cover defining a set of cover apertures; and a slider defining an aperture therein and being movable between a first position blocking the set of cover apertures and a second position not blocking the set of cover apertures, wherein when an object probes at least one and fewer than all of the set of cover apertures, the slider is constrained in the first position. When a set of prongs is inserted simultaneously through the set of cover apertures, the prongs contact a slider surface that is oriented substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the set of prongs such that the slider is urged from the first to the second position. When in the second position the slider aperture aligns with at least one of the set of cover apertures to enable the set of prongs to contact the receptacle contacts.
US07820905B2 Thermoelectric conversion device and manufacture method for the same
A thermoelectric conversion device and a manufacture method thereof are provided. The manufacture method includes an electrode board stamping process, an insulating frame molding process, a punching process, an element fixing process, a bending process and an insulating frame integrating process. Band-shaped plate members which function as heat radiating fins and heat absorbing fins and are integrated with insulating frame members are respectively folded-back in such a manner that the folding-back directions of the band-shaped plate members are alternately reverse to each other in the longitudinal direction of the band-shaped plate member. The insulating frame members are joined to each other to be arranged substantially in line, to construct an insulating frame unit. Thus, the component number and the assembly labor can be reduced, while the manufacture quality and the product quality can be improved.
US07820904B1 Phantom powered pedals
Musical instrument effects pedals are powered from adjacent pedals by providing electrical connectors between adjacent pedals and by providing tip-ring-sleeve jacks in the pedals and three wire connectors with tip-ring-sleeve connectors, which carry sound signals from an instrument through sequential pedals and electrical power in an opposite direction to the pedals.
US07820902B2 Music performance system for music session and component musical instruments
Automatic player pianos and internet form a music performance system for a music session on the automatic player pianos through data communication between the automatic player pianos, and a communication time lag and mechanical time lag are unavoidably introduced between the data transmission and the data reception and between the data reception and tone generation; one of or both of the time lags are compensated by employment of an electronic tone generation, presumption of key positions or presumption of key event so that the slave automatic player piano generates the tones almost concurrently with the tones generated through the master automatic player piano.
US07820901B2 Information management method, information management program, and information management device
A file storage apparatus provides an information management method. The information management method includes correlating one or more electronic files with audible cues relative to audio content reproduced via the file storage apparatus, designating respective time intervals of the audio content during which each of the one or more electronic files can be accessed by the file storage apparatus, and retrieving the one or more electronic files of the file storage apparatus upon a predetermined user input provided to the file storage apparatus during one of the respective time intervals of the audio content.
US07820897B2 String for musical instrument and method for manufacturing the same
A string for a musical instrument of this invention includes a core and a winding wound around the core to have a wound string structure. The winding has a winding body, and a coating film formed on the winding body. The coating film includes a vinyl resin and aminotriazole.
US07820895B1 Maize variety inbred PH12BN
A novel maize variety designated PH12BN and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH12BN with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH12BN through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH12BN or a locus conversion of PH12BN with another maize variety.
US07820890B1 Inbred corn line G07-NPXA6496
Basically, this invention provides for an inbred corn line designated G07-NPXA6496, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line G07-NPXA6496 with plants of another corn plants. The invention relates to the various parts of inbred G07-NPXA6496 including culturable cells. This invention also relates to methods for introducing transgenic transgenes into inbred corn line G07-NPXA6496 and plants produced by said methods.
US07820884B2 Dual purpose watermelon: reduced sugar watermelon for type 2 diabetics, and pollenizer for seedless watermelons
The invention relates to a diploid watermelon having fruit with approximately ⅓ lower sugar content than common watermelons found in the market place, and plant characteristics favorable for use as a pollenizer for commercial production of seedless watermelons. In addition to reduced sugar, fruit characteristics of the invention include a tough rind, firm flesh, distinct rind color, and small fruit. The watermelon plant of the invention has the characteristics of extended flowering duration, thin leaves, and long sprawling vines. The invention combining the above mentioned fruit and plant characteristics can serve the dual purpose of producing reduced sugar watermelon fruit, and pollinating seedless watermelons. This will in effect produce reduced sugar watermelons which are beneficial for consumers with type 2 diabetes as a byproduct of commercial seedless watermelon production making the product more economically feasible.
US07820880B2 Compositions and methods to stack multiple nucleotide sequences of interest in the genome of a plant
Methods and compositions for the stacking of multiple nucleotide sequences at precise locations in the genome of a plant or plant cell are provided. Specifically, transfer cassettes comprising nucleotide sequences of interest flanked by non-identical recombination sites are introduced into a plant comprising a target site. The target site contains at least a set of non-identical recombination sites corresponding to those on the transfer cassette. Exchange of the nucleotide sequences flanked by the recombination sites is effected by a recombinase. The transfer cassettes and target sites are designed so as to allow for the stacking or ordering of nucleotide sequences at precise locations in the plant genome.
US07820879B2 Use of zinc finger transcription factor zpt2-3 to generate plants with increased desiccation tolerance
To investigate the function of ZPT2-3, petunia transformants overexpressing the ZPT2-3 gene under the control of the CamV 35S promoter were generated to investigate the presence or absence of tolerance against desiccation stress treatment. Surprisingly, petunia plant transformants showed significant tolerance against desiccation as compared to the wild type plants. In addition, neither growth abnormality nor morphological abnormality was observed in petunia plants, and thus overexpression of the ZPT2-3 gene was revealed to have no adverse effects on plant growth.
US07820873B2 Absorbent structure comprising synergistic components for superabsorbent polymer
Absorbent structures that form superabsorbent polymers in situ. The structures include an absorbent material and a fibrous material containing an activating agent. The fibrous material releases the activating agent upon stimulation with an activator, which causes the polymer to become a superabsorbent polymer. The absorbent component is desirably a water-swellable, water-insoluble polymer. The absorbent structures form a superabsorbent composition in situ. Methods of making the activating agent containing fibrous material are provided.
US07820872B2 Wound dressings, apparatus, and methods for controlling severe, life-threatening bleeding
A chitosan biomaterial is frozen in aqueous solution to form a frozen chitosan structure from which water is removed by a prescribed freeze-drying process to form a sponge-like chitosan structure having a thickness and a density. The sponge-like chitosan structure is compressed by application of heat and pressure to reduce the thickness and increase the density of the sponge-like chitosan structure to form a densified chitosan structure. The densified chitosan structure is further preconditioned by heating the densified chitosan structure according to prescribed conditions to form a wound dressing. The wound dressing possesses an adhesion strength and resistance to dissolution in high blood flow bleeding situations.
US07820866B2 Process for the manufacture of polyphenols
An improved process for the manufacture of a polyphenol compound such as bisphenol-A by introducing into a reaction zone a phenolic compound reactant, a carbonyl compound reactant, and a catalyst promoter comprising bismethylthiopropane added to the reaction system in certain specific locations, and reacting the ingredients within the reaction zone in the presence of an acid catalyst.
US07820865B2 Photolatent systems
The instant invention relates to new photolatent compounds of the formula I wherein R1 and R2 are each independently of the other C1-C10alkyl or C3-C8cycloalkyl, R3 is hydrogen or C1-C4alkyl, and wherein the photochemically cleaved group R4OH is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, UV absorbers, anti-microbials, anti-fogging agents and clarifiers; with the proviso that, when R1 and R2 are tert-butyl and R3 is hydrogen, R4 is not methyl or phenyl.
US07820864B2 Process for producing arylsulfur pentafluorides
Novel processes for preparing arylsulfur pentafluorides are disclosed. Processes include reacting at least one aryl sulfur compound with a halogen and a fluoro salt to form an arylsulfur halotetrafluoride. The arylsulfur halotetrafluoride is reacted with a fluoride source to form a target arylsulfur pentafluoride.
US07820860B2 Method for separating compound-forming chiral systems
Methods for racemate separation for compound-forming substances. In this method, at least one fraction which is enriched with an enantiomer is produced in one method step. Finally, a preferred crystallization is carried out on the fraction.
US07820859B2 Process for preparing L- (+) -lactic acid
The present invention provides a commercially viable process for the preparation of highly pure and optically active L-(+)-lactic acid and S-(−)-methyl lactate, in high yield, obtained from esterification of aqueous crude lactic acid solution produced by sugar cane juice fermentation broth and methanol in continuous counter current trickle phase approach or in continuous counter current bubble column manner, using stabilizers and the methyl lactate so obtained is recovered and followed by purification of reasonably pure methyl lactate using reagent mixture such as sodium bi-carbonate, mono-ethanolamine or di-ethanolamine, urea or sodium-bicarbonate, mono-ethanolamine or di-ethanolamine, thiourea to reduce the impurity of dimethyl ester of dicarboxylic such as dimethyl oxalate or di-methyl succinate or methyl ester of mono-carboxylic acid such as methyl pyruvate present as an impurity, so as to get highly pure S-(−)-methyl lactate followed by hydrolyzing highly pure S-(−)-methyl lactate using highly pure lactic acid as a catalyst, using highly pure water as the hydrolysis media and by using pre-treated activated carbon with dilute L-(+)-lactic acid, in batch or continuous mode. This very high pure S-(−)-methyl lactate constitutes an important product having interesting possibilities of application at an industrial level, in pharmaceuticals. Highly pure L-(+)-lactic acid thus obtained is used as an acidulant, as a food additive, for pharmaceutical applications, a monomer for making poly-lactic acid, as a monomer to prepare biodegradable polymer which are useful for manufacturing bags, application films, in the field of sanitary field, and has medical applications.
US07820858B2 Concise β2-amino acid synthesis via organocatalytic aminomethylation
The present invention provides a method for the synthesis of β2-amino acids. The method also provides methods yielding α-substituted β-amino aldehydes and β-substituted γ-amino alcohols. The present method according to this invention allows for increased yield and easier purification using minimal chromatography or crystallization. The methods described herein are based on an aldehyde aminomethylation which involves a Mannich reaction between an aldehyde and a formaldehyde-derived N,O-acetal (iminium precursor) and a catalyst, such as, for example, L-proline or a pyrrolidine. The invention allows for large scale, commercial preparation of β2-amino acids.
US07820857B2 Method for treating pain in trigeminal neuralgia
The present invention is directed to the use of a class of peptide compounds for treating pain in trigeminal neuralgia.
US07820853B2 Integrated process for the production of vinyl acetate from acetic acid via ethyl acetate
This invention provides an integrated three step economical process for the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) from acetic acid in the vapor phase. First, acetic acid is selectively hydrogenated over a hydrogenating catalyst composition to form ethyl acetate which is cracked to form ethylene and acetic acid in the second step and in a subsequent step so formed ethylene and acetic acid is reacted with molecular oxygen over a suitable catalyst to form VAM. In an embodiment of this invention reaction of acetic acid and hydrogen over platinum and copper supported on silica selectively produces ethyl acetate in a vapor phase at a temperature of about 250° C., which is cracked over a NAFION catalyst to form ethylene and acetic acid at a temperature of about 185° C., which is mixed with molecular oxygen and reacted over a palladium/gold/potassium catalyst supported on titania to form VAM at a temperature of about 150° C. to 170° C.
US07820852B2 Direct and selective production of ethyl acetate from acetic acid utilizing a bimetal supported catalyst
A process for the selective production of ethyl acetate by vapor phase reaction of acetic acid over a hydrogenating catalyst composition to form ethyl acetate is disclosed and claimed. In an embodiment of this invention reaction of acetic acid and hydrogen over platinum and copper supported on silica selectively produces ethyl acetate in a vapor phase at a temperature of about 250° C.
US07820849B2 Process for the carbonylation of conjugated dienes using a palladium catalyst system
A process is provided, in particular a continuous process for the carbonylation of butadiene by reacting the butadiene with carbon monoxide and a hydroxyl group-containing compound in the presence of a palladium catalyst system in a reaction zone to form a reaction mixture, said catalyst system comprising (a) a source of palladium cations, (b) a mono-, bi- or multidentate phosphine ligand, containing at least one phosphorus atom which is directly bound to two or three aliphatic carbon atoms, as process ligand to produce a palladium-phosphine ligand complex catalyst, and (c) a source of anions, said process ligand (b) containing the moiety shown in formula (I), wherein A1 and A2 each represent an aliphatic carbon atom which can be connected to one or more aliphatic or aromatic carbon atoms or both A1 and A2 are part of an at least 5-membered ring including the phosphorus atom, and X represents an aliphatic or aromatic carbon atom which can be connected to one or more aliphatic or aromatic carbon atoms or X is part of an organic bridging group connecting another identically or differently substituted phosphorus atom, and said source of anions (c) containing a carboxylic acid and, optionally, halide ions, wherein said process ligand is fed continuously or periodically to the process as ligand make-up at a temperature 50° C. or lower.
US07820847B2 Butenoic acid derivatives, processes for the preparation thereof, pharmaceutical compositions comprising them and use for the treatment of dyslipidaemia, atherosclerosis and diabetes
The present invention relates to butenoic acid derivatives of the formula I: in which R, R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the description, and also to processes for the preparation thereof, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising them and to their use for the treatment of dyslipidaemia, atherosclerosis and diabetes.
US07820846B2 Bifunctional phenyliso(thio)cyanates, processes and intermediates products for their preparation
A process for preparing phenyl iso(thio)cyanates of the formula I in which a compound of the formula II or its HCl adduct is reacted with a phosgenating agent where W is oxygen or sulfur and Ar and A are as defined in claim 1 is described. Moreover, the invention relates to the use of the phenyl iso(thio)cyanates for preparing crop protection agents.
US07820841B2 Low trans-fatty acid fat compositions; low-temperature hydrogenation, e.g., of edible oils
The present disclosure provides low trans-fatty acid fat compositions, methods of hydrogenating unsaturated feed-stocks (e.g., oils), and hydrogenation catalyst compositions. One exemplary method involves producing a catalyst composition by heating a nickel-based catalyst to a first temperature of at least about 85° C. in the presence of hydrogen and a fat component. An unsaturated feedstock may be contacted with the catalyst composition and hydrogenated by sustaining a hydrogenation reaction at a second temperature of no greater than about 70° C. Some specific implementations of the invention permit the production of partially hydrogenated seed oils with low trans-fatty acid contents.
US07820838B2 Method for total synthesis of ecteinascidins and intermediate compounds thereof
An intermediate compound for total synthesis of ecteinascidins comprising, a compound represented by general formula 2 having thioether group at C4 site, and the substituent R2 of N12 site is trichloroethoxycarbonyl (Troc) to which various substituents can be introduced by mild condition, further having 10 members ring structure which can be converted to a ring of other numbered members.
US07820829B2 Bisbenzisoselenazolonyl derivatives having antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic activities as well as their use
The present invention relates to new bisbenzisoselenazolonyl derivatives of the following general formula (I), wherein R is C4-5-alkylene, and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts. The inventive derivatives have antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic activities.
US07820827B2 Substituted piperidine compounds and methods of their use
Novel 3,4-disubstituted-4-aryl-piperidine compounds are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions containing the 3,4-disubstituted-4-aryl-piperidine compounds and methods of their pharmaceutical uses are also disclosed. The compounds disclosed are useful, inter alia, as antagonists of opioid receptors.
US07820825B2 N-substituted-azacyclylamines as histamine-3 antagonists
The present invention provides a compound of formula I and the use thereof for the treatment of a central nervous system disorder related to or affected by the histamine-3 receptor.
US07820821B2 Benzazole derivatives, compositions, and methods of use as aurora kinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds and methods from the treatment of cancer. The invention provides compounds that inhibit Aurora kinase, pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds that inhibit Aurora kinase, and methods for the treatment of cancer using the compounds of the presentation invention or pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of the present invention.
US07820818B2 Heteroaryl nitrile derivatives
The invention provides compounds of formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester thereof wherein the symbols have meaning as defined, which are inhibitors of cathepsin K and find use pharmaceutically for treatment of diseases and medical conditions in which cathepsin K is implicated, e.g. various disorders including inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and tumors.
US07820816B2 Process for the synthesis of CMHTP and intermediates thereof
The present invention provides 3-benzyloxy-2-aminopyridine (BOPA), 3-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-2-methyl-9-hydoxy-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidine-4-one (HMBP), 3-(2-Chloroethyl)-2-methyl-9-hydoxy-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidine-4-one (CMHP) and 3-(2-chloroethyl)-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-9-hydroxy-2-methyl-4H-pyrrido[1,2-a]-pyrimidin-4-one (CMHTP) useful as intermediates for the preparation of paliperidone. The present invention also provides processes for preparing these intermediates and for preparing paliperidone.
US07820813B2 Method for preparation of (S)-(+)- and (R)-(−)-10,11-dihydro-10-hydroxy-5H-dibenz/b,f/azepine-5-carboxamide
An efficient and high-yielding method for the preparation of optically pure (S)-(+)-10,11 -dihydro-10-hydroxy-5H-dibenz/b,f/azepine-5-carboxamide and (R)-(−)-10,11-dihydro-10-hydroxy-5H-dibenz/b,f/azepine-5-carboxamide by resolution of racemic (±)-10,11-dihydro-10-hydroxy-5H-dibenz/b,f/azepine-5-carboxamide using a tartaric acid anhydride.
US07820811B2 Pro-drugs of adenosine receptor agonists
The invention relates to a method of improving oral drug absorption of adenosine analogues by the use of 2′-methoxy adenosine pro-drugs and to the use of these pro-drugs as medicaments. The invention further relates to compounds that are pro-drugs of adenosine receptor agonists, and to their use as therapeutic compounds, in particular as analgesic or anti-inflammatory compounds, or as disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and to methods of preventing, treating or ameliorating pain or inflammation using these compounds.
US07820801B2 Highly purified proteinase K
A method for producing solid proteinase K which is insoluble in water and has high purity, the method comprising the steps of adding to an aqueous solution of proteinase K ammonium sulfate in an amount of 0.1 to 0.2 M per 5 minutes up to a final amount of 1.5 to 2 M after 1 hour, thereby precipitating the proteinase K as a solid, and isolating the solid proteinase K.
US07820799B2 Methods of purifying Fc region containing proteins
The present application provides methods of purifying polypeptides having a Fc region, for example, antibodies or antibody fusions, by adsorbing the polypeptides to a Fc binding agent, such as, for example, Protein A or Protein G, followed by a wash with a divalent cation salt buffer to remove impurities and subsequent recovery of the adsorbed polypeptides. The present application also features methods of eluting the purified polypeptide as well as the incorporation of the methods within a purification train. Kits comprising components for carrying out the methods and instructions for use are also provided.
US07820796B2 Methods for producing Factor VIII proteins
Methods are provided for purification of Factor VIII polypeptides by affinity chromatography and ion exchange chromatography, in which the eluate from the affinity column is diluted with a solution comprising higher salt concentration, or lower non-polar agent concentration than that of the elution solution, prior to passing the diluted solution through the ion exchange column. The affinity matrix may comprise a monoclonal antibody or a peptide ligand. The methods result in improved purification without significant yield loss.
US07820794B2 Long-lasting collagen and manufacturing method thereof
In a long-lasting collagen and its manufacturing method, a pig skin is gone through processes of scraping extra tissues, removing fats, imbibition, digesting, centrifugal separation, salting-out, collecting lower-layer precipitate and freeze-drying to form a collagen, and the collagen is mixed with γ-PGA, and then a glutaraldehyde solution is added and mixed uniformly to perform a first crosslinking and form the long-lasting collagen, so as to overcome the shortcomings of a conventional collagen having a short storage time, a requirement of applying the collagen repeatedly, and a high concentration of remained glutaradldehyde which is biologically poisonous to human bodies.
US07820793B2 IFN-λ polypeptides and compositions
A novel IFN-α/β independent ligand receptor system which upon engagement leads, among other things, to the establishment of an anti-viral state is disclosed. Further disclosed are three closely positioned genes on human chromosome 19 that encode distinct but highly homologous proteins, designated IFN-λ1, IFN-λ2, IFN-λ3, based, inter alia, in their ability to induce antiviral protection. Expression of these proteins is induced upon viral infection. A receptor complex utilized by all three IFN-λ proteins for signaling is also disclosed. The receptor complex is generally composed of two subunits, a novel receptor designated IFN-λR1 or CRF2-12, and a second subunit, IL-10R2 or CRF2-4, which is also a shared receptor component for the IL-10 and IL-22 receptor complexes. The gene encoding IFN-λR1 is generally widely expressed, including many different cell types and tissues. Expression of these proteins is induced by immune events, including, for example, upon viral infection. Apoptotosis may also be induced under effective conditions.
US07820792B2 CDNA encoding the human α2 δ4 calcium channel subunit
The present invention provides nucleic acid and polypeptide sequences describing an isoform of the α2δ-4 subunit of a voltage gated calcium channel. The nucleic acids described herein can be used to produce functional α2δ-4 protein. The calcium channel α2δ-4 protein may be isolated for the purposes of binding experiments or may be used in cells to form a functional calcium channel complex.
US07820791B2 H+-gated ion channel
The invention relates to an isolated or recombinant Na+/H+ exchanger comprising an isolated or recombinant Na+/H+ exchanger, particularly to the PBO-4 Na+/H+ exchanger. Also disclosed is an isolated or recombinant protein component of an H+-gated channel which can be affected by extracellular Ca2+ concentration. In particular, the invention relates to PBO-5 and/or PBO-8 and/or a H+-gated channel composed of PBO-5 and PBO-8. The invention relates to compounds isolated from a vertebrate organism, wherein said compounds comprise at least a part of a H+-gated channel or Na+/H+ exchanger. The invention also relates to a method for identifying a component of a H+-gated channel in a vertebrate organism.
US07820787B2 Multi-functional antibodies
The present invention provides antibodies comprising an antigen recognition domain that specifically binds to a metal chelate: mutant antibodies comprising a reactive site not present in the wild-type of the antibody, wherein the reactive site is in a position proximate to or within the antigen recognition domain; and methods of using such antibodies to diagnose and treat disease.
US07820786B2 Synthetic peptides and uses therefore
Aspects of the present invention are related to a synthetic polypeptide comprising a plurality of different segments from one or more parent polypeptides, linked together in such a way that is different from their linkage in the one or more parent polypeptides, in such way as to impede, abrogate or otherwise alter at least one function associated with the linkage in the one or more parent polypeptides, and in such a way that their product is not similar in function and/or structure to at least a portion of the one or more parent polypeptides. Additional aspects include a synthetic polynucleotide encoding the synthetic polypeptide, methods of production, a synthetic construct and methods of using the synthetic polypeptide, nucleotide construct and compositions comprising the above. Another aspect is directed towards a computer program product for designing these synthetic polypeptides and polynucleotides.
US07820785B2 Solid phase synthesis supports and methods
Functionalized supports and methods for solid phase synthesis. Preferably, the functionalized support is azlactone-functionalized.
US07820783B2 Kits for flurotometric analyses
Chemically reactive carbocyanine dyes that are intramolecularly crosslinked between the 1-position and 3′-position, their bioconjugates and their uses are described. 1,3′-crosslinked carbocyanines are superior to those of conjugates of spectrally similar 1,1′-crosslinked or non-crosslinked dyes. The invention includes derivative compounds having one or more benzo nitrogens.
US07820782B2 Poly(dithienylbenzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene) polymers
A polymer of the formula/structure wherein R, R′, and R″ are, for example, a suitable hydrocarbon, a halogen (halide) a hetero-containing group, or mixtures thereof; and n represents the number of repeating groups.
US07820781B2 Polymeric materials and additives therefor
A polymer additive for improving the reheat characteristics of a polymer or polymeric composition comprises an inorganic material which is such that a 2.5 mm thick polyethylene terephthalate plaque incorporating the inorganic material has, when tested, an absorption ratio of less than 0.9, wherein the absorption ratio is either the ratio of A1/A2 or the ratio A1/A3, wherein: A1 is the maximum absorption between 400 nm and 550 nm; A2 is the maximum absorption between 700 to 1100 nm; A3 is the maximum absorption between 700 to 1600 nm. Preferred inorganic materials are titanium nitride, indium tin oxide and lanthanum hexaboride.
US07820777B2 Composition, film and producing method therefor
A composition comprising: a polymerized substance of a compound (I) that contains m numbers of RSi(O0.5)3 units, wherein m represents an integer of from 8 to 16; and R's each independently represents a non-hydrolysable group, provided that at least two among R's represent groups containing a vinyl group or an ethynyl group, and wherein each one of the RSi(O0.5)3 units is connected to another one of the RSi(O0.5)3 units by sharing an oxygen atom in each one of the RSi(O0.5)3 units, so as to form a cage structure, and wherein within a solid component contained in the composition, a polymerized substance formed by a reaction of the compound (I) represents 60 mass % or more.
US07820771B2 Elastomeric composition reinforced with a functionalized polyvinylaromatic filler
Rubber composition based on at least one diene elastomer, a polymeric filler as reinforcing filler and a coupling agent for bonding between the polymeric filler and the elastomer. The polymeric filler includes nanoparticles of a polyvinylaromatic (PVAr) carrying a functional group denoted by Z of formula a ≡Si—X, X representing a hydroxyl or hydrolyzable group. The PVAr is especially a copolymer of styrene, ethylvinylbenzene, divinylbenzene and trimethoxysilylpropylacrylate or trimethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate, being in the form of nanobeads, the diameter of which is between 10 and 100 nm. Also described is a method of obtaining such a composition, and use of such a rubber composition for the manufacture of rubber articles, in particular tires or rubber semi-finished products intended for these tires, as well as a masterbatch including at least one diene elastomer and such a polymeric filler, and a method of obtaining such a masterbatch.
US07820770B2 Crosslinkable compositions based on organosilicon compounds
Crosslinkable organosilicon compositions with controllable modulus can be prepared using organosilicon compounds composed of units of the formula (HO)aRbSiO(4-a-b)/2  (I), where R is identical or different and is a monovalent, optionally substituted hydrocarbon radical optionally interrupted by heteroatoms, a is 0 or 1, and b is 0, 1, 2 or 3, with the proviso that the organosilicon compound has a single unit of the formula (I) where a=1, and has a viscosity of from 5 to 1000 mPas at 25° C.
US07820767B2 Aromatic polyimide composition
The present invention relates to a new aromatic polyimide composition containing an aromatic polyimide and a polyarylene of a specific type, and to articles and parts of articles made thereof.
US07820764B2 Process for controlling the molecular weight of polymers of bromostyrene
A controlled molecular weight polymer of styrene is provided having bromine substituted thereon. Control of molecular weight is achieved by the use of alpha-methyl styrene dimer as a chain transfer agent. The brominated polymer of styrene is useful as a flame retardant, particularly for polyamides giving improved properties including color retention after molding.
US07820758B1 Polymeric glycerin surfactants
The invention discloses a series of glycerin/succinate/alkyl succinate polyesters. These materials are high foaming detergents useful in the formulation of biodegradable, polyoxyalkylene free, cosmetic and personal care products.
US07820754B2 Aqueous polymer dispersion for barrier coating
The invention relates to an aqueous polymer dispersion which can be obtained from a mixture of monomers comprising, in parts by weight: a) 100 of at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer not comprising an ionic group, b) 0.5 to 15 of at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer carrying at least one carboxyl and/or carboxylic anhydride functional group, c) at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer carrying at least one second functionality selected from: phosphate, phosphonate or phosphinate, in an amount such that the ratio c/(b+c) varies from 0.05 to 0.4, d) 0 to 2 of at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer carrying at least one alkoxysilane functional group, e) 0 to 5 of at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer additionally carrying at least one active carbonyl functional group or an other aldhehyde-reactive functional group, such as an ureido derivative, or morpholine, imidazoline, oxazolidine, aziridine, or an aldhehyde-reactive amine function, f) 0 to 10, preferably 2 to 8, of at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer carrying at least one functional group selected from hydroxyl and primary or secondary amine. The invention also relates to a preparation process, to a coating composition comprising the said dispersion and to a method of use in coatings for metal or plastic substrates, in particular corrosion-inhibiting coatings for metal substrates.
US07820750B2 Silica powder and use thereof
The present invention herein provides silica powder which can be incorporated into a sealing material at a high content to thus give a sealing material having excellent moldability. The silica powder at least has, in the volume-based frequency distribution of particle size as determined by the laser diffraction-scattering technique, a maximum frequency value for a mode peak 1present in a particle size range extending from 1 to 4 μm and a maximum frequency value for a mode peak 2 present in a particle size range extending from 15 to 55 μm, wherein the maximum frequency value for the mode peak 2 is greater than that for the mode peak 1, the mode peak 2 has a shoulder, and the content of particles whose particle size ranges from 15 to 55 μm is larger than that of particles whose particle size ranges from 1 to 4 μm.
US07820746B2 Thermoplastic polymer composition
A thermoplastic polymer composition having excellent resistance to heat discoloration has been desired. There is provided a thermoplastic polymer composition characterized by comprising a thermoplastic polymer, phosphites represented by the formula (I), and at least one kind of erythritols selected from the group consisting of pentaerythritol, dipentaerythritol and tripentaerythritol: wherein R1, R2, R4 and R5 each independently denotes a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group or the like, and R3 denotes a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group; X denotes a single bond, a sulfur atom or a —CHR6 group (R6 denotes a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group or a cycloalkyl group); A denotes an alkylene group or a *—COR7 group (R7 denotes a single bond or an alkylene group, and * denotes a bonding hand on the side of oxygen), and one of Y and Z denotes a hydroxyl group or the like, and the other one of Y and Z denotes a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group).
US07820741B2 Flame retardant adhesive composition, and adhesive sheet, coverlay film and flexible copper-clad laminate using same
The present invention provides a halogen-free, flame retardant adhesive composition that exhibits excellent anti-migration properties, not only within single layer structures, but also within multilayer structures of much higher density. The flame retardant adhesive composition according to the present invention comprises: (A) a halogen-free epoxy resin, (B) a carboxyl group-containing acrylic resin and/or a carboxyl group-containing acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, (C) a curing agent, (E) a specific polyphosphoric acid-melamine-based compound salt and/or polyphosphoric acid-diamine compound salt, and (F) an ion scavenger and/or a heavy metal deactivator.
US07820735B2 Ink composition for a color filter, a color filter substrate manufactured using the ink composition and method of manufacturing a color filter substrate using the ink composition
An ink composition for a color filter includes about 100 parts by weight of a pigment dispersion, about 7 parts by weight to about 65 parts by weight of a thermosetting resin having hydroxyl group at a side chain of the thermosetting resin, about 0.015 part by weight to about 1.5 parts by weight of a thermal initiator, about 0.8 part by weight to about 15 parts by weight of an epoxy-based resin containing fluorine, and about 15 parts by weight to about 165 parts by weight of a solvent. A color filter substrate is manufactured using the ink composition for color filter. The ink composition for the color filter improves straightness of ink jetting through an ink-jetting nozzle and prevents the ink composition from spreading to neighboring pixels.
US07820732B2 Methods for modulating thermal and mechanical properties of coatings on implantable devices
Methods for modulating and enhancing thermal and mechanical properties and biocompatibilities of coatings on implantable devices are disclosed. Implantable devices containing the enhanced thermal and mechanical properties and biocompatibilities are also described. The implantable devices can be used to treat a medical condition such as vulnerable plaque or restenosis.
US07820731B2 Radiation curable inks
A radiation curable ink includes a curable monomer or oligomer, a curable wax, a colorant, and at least one initiator.
US07820730B2 Perfluoropolyether copolymer composition for forming banks
Disclosed are a copolymer of a perfluoropolyether derivative and a photosensitive polymer, a composition for forming banks comprising the copolymer, and a method for forming banks using the composition. Also disclosed is an organic thin film transistor including the composition and an electronic device including the organic thin film transistor. The use of the copolymer may enable the formation of banks by a solution coating process. Because an organic thin film transistor including banks formed by the method may be fabricated without any degradation in the characteristics of the organic thin film transistor, improved electronic properties may be exhibited.
US07820727B2 Process for the running of a reactor suitable for heterogeneous reactions combined with reactions taking place in three-phase system
Process for the running of a reactor in which reactions take place in multiphase systems, wherein a gaseous phase prevalently consisting of CO and H2 is bubbled into a suspension of a solid in the form of particles (catalyst) in a liquid (prevalently reaction product), according to the Fischer-Tropsch technology.
US07820723B2 Method of preparing a stable lead zircon-titanate sol and method for preparing films based on same
A method of preparing a sol of lead zirconium titanate, known as PZT, of formula PbZrxTi(1−x)O3 with 0.45≦x≦0.7, comprises the steps of: (a) preparing a concentrated sol in a diol, the sol comprising a titanium-based precursor, a zirconium-based precursor, and a lead-based precursor; (b) placing the concentrated sol at ambient temperature without agitation, until a sol is obtained having a constant viscosity as a function of time; (c) diluting the sol obtained in (b) with a solvent compatible with the diol used in step (a). The sol is useful for preparing PZT-based films for use in the electronics field.
US07820721B2 Compounds for the treatment of metabolic disorders
Agents useful for the treatment of various metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance syndrome, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperlipidemia, fatty liver disease, cachexia, obesity, atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis are disclosed. wherein n is 1 or 2; m is 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4; q is 0 or 1; t is 0 or 1; R1 is alkyl having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms; R2 is hydrogen, halo, alkyl having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms, or alkoxy having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms; one of R3 and R4 is hydrogen or hydroxy and the other is hydrogen; or R3 and R4 together are ═O; R5 is hydrogen or alkyl having one, two, three, four or five carbon atoms; A is phenyl, unsubstituted or substituted by 1 or 2 groups selected from: halo, hydroxy, alkyl having 1 or 2 carbon atoms, perfluoromethyl, alkoxy having 1 or 2 carbon atoms, and perfluoromethoxy; or cycloalkyl having from 3 to 6 ring carbon atoms wherein the cycloalkyl is unsubstituted or one or two ring carbons are independently mono-substituted by methyl or ethyl; or a 5 or 6 membered heteroaromatic ring having 1 or 2 ring heteroatoms selected from N, S and O and the heteroaromatic ring is covalently bound to the remainder of the compound of formula I by a ring carbon. Alternatively, the. agent can be a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the compound of Formula I.
US07820713B2 Cocoa extracts as antioxidants
Disclosed and claimed are cocoa extracts such as polyphenols or procyanidins, methods for preparing such extracts, as well as uses for them, especially as antineoplastic agents and antioxidants. Disclosed and claimed are antineoplastic compositions containing cocoa polyphenols or procyanidins and methods for treating patients employing the compositions. Additionally disclosed and claimed is a kit for treating a patient in need of treatment with an antineoplastic agent containing cocoa polyphenols or procyanidins as well as a lyophilized antineoplastic composition containing cocoa polyphenols or procyanidins. Further, disclosed and claimed is the use of the invention in antioxidant, preservative and topoisomerase-inhibiting compositions and methods.
US07820709B2 N-phenylpyrazole derivatives as pesticides
The invention relates to polar 5-aminopyrazole carbamate derivatives of formula (I) or salts thereof: (I), wherein the various symbols are as defined in the description, to processes for their preparation, to compositions thereof, and to their use for the control of pests (including arthropods and helminths).
US07820705B2 Compounds and compositions as PPAR modulators
The invention provides compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat or prevent diseases or disorders associated with the activity of the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) families, particularly the activity of PPAR.
US07820699B2 Cyclic amines
The invention is concerned with cyclic amines of formula (I) wherein X1 to X3, Y1 to Y3, R1′, R1″ and n are as defined in the description and in the claims, as well as physiologically acceptable salts thereof. These compounds inhibit coagulation factor Xa and can be used as medicaments and for treating diseases associated with coagulation factor Xa.
US07820698B2 Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors belonging to the tertiary amine class
Compounds of formula (I): wherein n, A, R1, and R2 are defined in the specification, are useful as inhibitors of the phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) enzyme and for treating certain conditions.
US07820692B2 Tetrahydro isoquinoline derivatives, preparation methods and medicinal uses thereof
A kind of tetrahydro isoquinoline derivatives (I), their preparation methods, medicine compositions and medicinal uses thereof, especially their uses as κ-opioid receptor excitant in pain relieving, which belongs to the medicine chemistry. The substituents R1, R2, R3, R4 of general formula (I) are defined as the description.
US07820690B2 Method of treating or inhibiting a non-digestive tract derived abdominal disorder associated with pain using a 5-HT, receptor antagonist
A method of treating or inhibiting non-digestive tract derived abdominal disorders associated with pain, in particular interstitial cystitis, chronic pelvic pain syndrome and/or abdominal pain associated with endometriosis, in a patient in need thereof, by administering to the patient a pharmaceutically effective amount of a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, in particular cilansetron, or a pharmacologically compatible derivative thereof, such as a salt and/or a solvates.
US07820685B2 Aminopyrimidines useful as kinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of Aurora protein kinases. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising those compounds and methods of using the compounds and compositions in the treatment of various disease, conditions, and disorders. The invention also provides processes for preparing compounds of the invention.
US07820683B2 4-(1H-indazol-5-yl-amino)-quinazoline compounds as erbB receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of cancer
A quinazoline derivative of the Formula I: wherein the substituents are as defined in the text for use in the production of an anti-proliferative effect which effect is produced alone or in part by inhibiting erbB2 receptor tyrosine kinase in a warm-blooded animal such as man.
US07820678B2 Sodium channel blockers
Provided are methods of increasing hydration of mucosal surfaces by topically administering sodium channel blocking pyrazinoylguanidine compounds.
US07820674B2 Aminomethyl beta-secretase inhibitors for the treatment of alzheimer's disease
The present invention is directed to aminomethyl compounds which are inhibitors of the beta-secretase enzyme and that are useful in the treatment of diseases in which the beta-secretase enzyme is involved, such as Alzheimer's disease. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and the use of these compounds and compositions in the treatment of such diseases in which the beta-secretase enzyme is involved.
US07820671B2 Peptidomimetic protease inhibitors
The present invention relates to peptidomimetic compounds useful as protease inhibitors, particularly as serine protease inhibitors and more particularly as hepatitis C NS3 protease inhibitors; intermediates thereto; their preparation including novel steroselective processes to intermediates. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions and to methods for using the compounds for inhibiting HCV protease or treating a patient suffering from an HCV infection or physiological condition related to the infection. Also provided are pharmaceutical combinations comprising, in addition to one or more HCV serine protease inhibitors, one or more interferons exhibiting anti-HCV activity and/or one or more compounds having anti HCV activity and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and methods for treating or preventing a HCV infection in a patient using the compositions. The present invention is also directed to a kit or pharmaceutical pack for treating or preventing HCV infection in a patient.
US07820670B2 6-aminoimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine analogs as rho kinase inhibitors for the treatment of rho kinase-mediated diseases and conditions
Methods for using 6-aminoimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine analogs are disclosed herein to treat rho kinase-mediated diseases or rho kinase-mediated conditions, including controlling intraocular pressure and treating glaucoma, are disclosed. Ophthalmic pharmaceutical compositions useful in the treatment of eye diseases such as glaucoma, and additionally useful for controlling intraocular pressure, the compositions comprising an effective amount of 6-aminoimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine analogs, are disclosed herein.
US07820667B2 Methods of treating hypertension
It is an object of the present invention to provide a therapeutic agent for effectively preventing or ameliorating diseases caused by dysfunction of NOS.The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for preventing and/or treating diseases associated with dysfunction of NOS, comprising as an effective ingredient, a compound of the formula (I): wherein R1 and R2 each represents a hydrogen atom or, taken together with each other, represent a single bond, while R3 represents —CH(OH)CH(OH)CH3, —CH(OCOCH3)CH(OCOCH3)CH3, —CH3, —CH2OH, or a phenyl group when R1 and R2 each represents a hydrogen atom, or —COCH(OH)CH3 when R1 and R2 together represent a single bond, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US07820660B2 N-substituted hydroxypyrimidinone carboxamide inhibitors of HIV integrase
N-substituted 5-hydroxypyrimidin-6-one-4-carboxamides of formula: are described as inhibitors of HIV integrase and inhibitors of HIV replication, wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are defined herein. These compounds are useful in the prevention and treatment of infection by HIV and in the prevention, delay in the onset, and treatment of AIDS. The compounds are employed against HIV infection and AIDS as compounds per se or in the form of pharmaceutically acceptable salts. The compounds and their salts can be employed as ingredients in pharmaceutical compositions, optionally in combination with other antivirals, immunomodulators, antibiotics or vaccines. Methods of preventing, treating or delaying the onset of AIDS and methods of preventing or treating infection by HIV are also described.
US07820656B2 Pharmaceutical composition comprising N-aryl N′ morpholino/piperidino thiocarbamide derivatives for treating type II diabetes
Disclosed is a medicament comprising N-aryl N′ morpholino/piperidino thiocarbamide derivatives represented by the following formula 1 for preventing and treating diabetes, diabetic complications, insulin resistance and insulin resistance syndrome, and can be used in drugs, foods, and beverages inducing an effect of preventing and treating diabetes, diabetic complications, insulin resistance and insulin resistance syndrome of modern people who suffer from the increasing development of diabetes resulting from environmental factors, such as intake of westernized foods, obesity, and so on: wherein, X is O or C, and R represents 4-chlorophenyl, 2-methylphenyl, 3-methoxypheny, 3-methylphenyl, or phenyl group.
US07820655B2 Ethanol or 1,2-ethanediol cyclohexyl antibiotic derivatives
The invention relates to antibiotic ethanol or 1,2-ethanediol cyclohexyl derivatives of formula (I) wherein R1 represents (C1-C4)alkoxy; one or two of U, V, W and X represents) N and the remaining represent each independently CH or, in the case of V or X, may also represent CRa; Ra represents halogen; R2 represents H or OH; A represents CH2, CO, CH2CH═CH or COCH═CH; D represents a phenyl group optionally substituted one or two times by halogen atoms, or D represents a group of the formula (II) in which Q is oxygen or sulphur; and to salts of these derivatives of formula (I).
US07820650B2 Antifungal 4-substituted 5,6-dihydro-4H-pyrrolo [1,2-a][1,4]benzodiazepines
The present invention concerns compounds for use as a medicine having the formula the N-oxide forms, the salts, the quaternary amines and stereochemically isomeric forms thereof, wherein R1 represents hydrogen, C1-6alkyl, C1-4alkylthio, C1-4alkyloxy, or halo; R2 represents hydrogen or C1-6alkyl; R3 represents phenyl substituted with halo, cyano, C1-4alkyloxy, C1-4alkylthio, C1-6alkyl, haloC1-6alkyl; 2-thienyl; or 3-thienyl, R4 represents hydrogen; or R2 and R4 form an extra bond, which are active against dermatophytes, and their preparation; it further relates to compositions comprising them, as well as their use as a medicine.
US07820645B2 Crystalline forms
There are provided crystalline forms of the compounds Ph(3-Cl)(5-OCHF2)—(R)CH(OH)C(O)-Aze-Pab(OMe) and Ph(3-Cl)(5-OCHF2)—(R)CH(OH)C(O)-Aze-Pab(OH), pharmaceutical compositions containing them, processes for obtaining them and their use in medical treatment.
US07820640B2 Methods for treating hearing loss
In one aspect, the present invention provides otoprotectant compositions useful for ameliorating hearing loss. In some embodiments, the otoprotective compositions comprise at least one glutathione peroxidase mimic. In some embodiments, the otoprotective compositions comprise at least one glutathione peroxidase mimic and at least one otoprotectant selected from the group consisting of a xanthine oxidase inhibitor and a glutathione or glutathione precursor. In some embodiments, the otoprotective compositions comprise at least one glutathione peroxidase mimic, at least one xanthine oxidase inhibitor, at least one glutathione or glutathione precursor. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods for ameliorating hearing loss by administering to a subject an amount of an otoprotective composition that is effective to ameliorate hearing loss.
US07820639B2 Ophthalmic compositions including lubricant, deturgescent agent, and glycosaminoglycan and methods of using the same
Ophthalmic compositions are provided that include a lubricant, a deturgescent agent, a glycosaminoglycan, and water. Methods of using the ophthalmic compositions are also provided.
US07820638B2 Method of applying hyaluronic acid to implant or graft to enhance lubricity and cellular density
A method for lubricating an implant or graft prior to implantation into a target implant site which enhances the lubricity of the implant or graft and promotes bone growth. The method comprises the steps of lubricating the implant or graft with the composition comprising hyaluronic acid and optionally a growth factor and/or an antiseptic and/or antibiotic, and subsequently implanting the lubricated implant or graft into a target implant site.
US07820633B2 Methods for therapeutic vaccination
A method is disclosed for inducing cell-mediated immunity against cellular antigens. More specifically, the invention provides for a method for inducing cytotoxic T-lymphocyte immunity against weak antigens, notably self-proteins. The method entails that antigen presenting cells are induced to present at least one CTL epitope of the weak antigen and at the same time presenting at least one foreign T-helper lymphocyte epitope. In a preferred embodiment, the antigen is a cancer specific antigen, e.g. PSM, Her2, or FGF8b. The method can be exercised by using traditional polypeptide vaccination, but also by using live attenuated vaccines or nucleic acid vaccination. The invention furthermore provides immunogenic analogues of PSM, Her2 and FGF8b, as well as nucleic acid molecules encoding these analogues. Also vectors and transformed cells are disclosed. The invention also provides for a method for identification of immunogenic analogues of weak or non-immunogenic antigens.
US07820629B2 Galactose derivative, drug carrier and medicinal composition
The object of the present invention is to provide a novel and useful galactose derivative, which is a component of a drug carrier by which a medicine can be efficiently transferred into the liver, a drug carrier comprising the derivative, and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the drug carrier and a medicine.The present invention relates to a galactose derivative represented by the following general formula (I) a drug carrier comprising the derivative and a cationic lipid, and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the carrier and a medicine (preferably a double-stranded RNA, a double-stranded DNA, an oligo nucleic acid). wherein, R1 represents hydrogen, an alkyl having 1 to 10 carbons which may be substituted or 1-(D)-deoxylactito-1-yl; R2 represents a saturated or unsaturated fatty acid residue having 10 to 30 carbon atoms.
US07820628B2 Tumor lesion regression and conversion in situ into autologous tumor vaccines by compositions that result in anti-Gal antibody binding
The present invention discloses that an intratumoral injection of: i) glycolipids with α-gal epitope; ii) gene vectors comprising an α1,3galactosyltransferase gene; or iii) a mixture of α1,3galactosyltransferase, neuraminidase, and uridine diphosphate galactose results in tumor regression and/or destruction. Binding of the natural anti-Gal antibody to de novo expressed tumoral α-gal epitopes induces inflammation resulting in an anti-Gal antibody mediated opsonization of tumor cells and their uptake by antigen presenting cells. These antigen presenting cells migrate to draining lymph nodes and activate tumor specific T cells thereby converting the treated tumor lesions into in situ autologous tumor vaccines. This therapy can be applied to patients with multiple lesions and in neo-adjuvant therapy to patients before tumor resection. In addition to the regression and/or destruction of the treated tumor, such a vaccine will help in the immune mediated destruction of micrometastases that are not detectable during the removal of the treated tumor.
US07820626B2 Compositions and methods for treating diseases
This invention relates to compositions and methods for treatment of vascular conditions. The invention provides arginine polymers and arginine homopolymers for the treatment and/or prevention of glaucoma, pulmonary hypertension, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, erectile dysfunction, Raynaud's syndrome, heparin overdose, vulvodynia, and wound healing. The invention also provides arginine polymers and arginine homopolymers for use in organ perfusate and preservation solutions.
US07820624B2 Peptide ligands
A peptide consisting of or comprising an amino acid sequence selected from a) PX1X2X3T [SEQ.ID.NO.:1]; b) PSX4S [SEQ.ID.NO.:2]; c) QX5X6X7Q [SEQ.ID.NO.:3]; d) SX8S [SEQ.ID.NO.:4], in which X1, X2 and X3, which may be the same or different, each represents an amino acid residue; X4 represents an amino acid residue; and X5 and X7, which may be the same or different, each represents an amino acid residue, X6 represents an amino acid residue having an amide side chain; and X8 represent an amino acid having an aliphatic side chain, which peptide binds to dendritic cells and also to other types of cells. The peptide may be used a target non-viral and viral vectors to such cells.
US07820623B2 Conjugated toxin peptide therapeutic agents
Disclosed is a composition of matter comprising an OSK1 peptide analog, and in some embodiments, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. A pharmaceutical composition comprises the composition and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Also disclosed are DNAs encoding the inventive composition of matter, an expression vector comprising the DNA, and host cells comprising the expression vector. Methods of treating an autoimmune disorder and of preventing or mitigating a relapse of a symptom of multiple sclerosis are also disclosed.
US07820620B2 Cripto antagonism of activin and TGF-b signaling
Cripto, a developmental oncoprotein, antagonizes activin and TGF-b signaling by forming a complex with activin and TGF-b and their type II receptors. This complex precludes the formation of a functional activin/TGF-b•type II•type I complex, thereby blocking the signaling of activin and TGF-b. Cripto may be generally capable of blocking antiproliferative Smad2/3 signals and provides a novel mechanism of oncogenic action with multiple therapeutic implications. Inhibiting the formation of Cripto and activin/TGF-b complex may enhance antiproliferative effects of activin and TGF-b.
US07820615B2 Method of providing delayed release of a volatile solvent from hydro-alcoholic cosmetic compositions
According to the present invention there is provided a use of a cyclic oligosaccharide for delaying the release of a volatile solvent from a composition, preferably a cosmetic composition, which comprises at least 50% volatile solvent.There is also provided a use of a cyclic oligosaccharide for reducing the initial harsh solvent odor impact, for example ethanolic/alcoholic odor impact of alcoholic or hydro-alcoholic compositions.
US07820611B2 Composition comprising,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane, methylene chloride and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene
The present invention relates to a composition based on 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane (HFC-365 mfc), that can be used in deposition, cleaning, degreasing and drying applications. Its object is also a fluid for cleaning internal heat-transfer systems. The object of the present invention is also a method for dissolving oil and for cleaning.
US07820607B2 Viscosity modifier for lubricating oils, additive composition for lubricating oils, and lubricating oil compositions
A viscosity modifier for lubricating oils or an additive composition for lubricating oils, which is excellent in oil-thickening properties and can provide lubricating oil compositions excellent in low-temperature characteristics and handleability at low temperatures; and lubricating oil compositions excellent in low-temperature characteristics and handleability at low temperatures. The viscosity modifier comprises an ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B) which comprises (i) a structural unit derived from ethylene, (ii) a structural unit derived from an α-olefin having 3 to 19 carbon atoms, and (iii) a structural unit derived from a higher α-olefin having 4 to 20 carbon atoms whose carbon number is by one or more larger than that of the α-olefin having the unit (ii) which has the following properties of (1) and (2): (1) the contents of units (i), (ii) and (iii) are 25-49 mol %, 15-55 mol %, and 9-40 mol % respectively (with the proviso that the total of the units (i), (ii), and (iii) is 100 mol %) and (2) the intrinsic viscosity [η] is 0.5 to 5.0 dl/g.
US07820604B2 Lubricating oil additive composition and method of making the same
An oil-soluble lubricating oil additive composition prepared by the process which comprises reacting a copolymer, with at least one polyether aliphatic amine compound.
US07820594B2 Pesticide compositions and methods for their use
This invention relates to agricultural compositions, particularly pesticidal compositions which find particular use as a fungicide or herbicide composition. The pesticidal composition can include one or more fatty acids and one or more organic acids different from the fatty acid. The organic acid can but need not exhibit any fungicidal activity; however, when combined with a fatty acid, the organic acid functions as a potent synergist for the fatty acid as a fungicide. Additionally, the pesticidal composition can include other components such as emulsifiers, adjuvants, surfactants and diluents. The pesticidal composition significantly reduces or prevents the fungal infection of cash crops including vegetables, fruits, berries, seeds, grains and at higher application rates, can also be used as a herbicide and/or harvest aid or desiccant for harvested crops such as potatoes. The addition of an emulsifier further enhances the herbicidal properties of the compositions.
US07820593B2 Powdery plant vitalizers
The present invention provides a powdery plant vitalizer and a powdery plant vitalizer composition which are resistant to the oozing of effective components and from which effective components are easily dispersed when the vertilizer is in contact with water to give vitality to plants. Specifically, the present invention relates to a powdery plant vitalizer containing a particle containing at least one compound (A) selected from a specific monohydric or dihydric alcohol (A1), a specific ether compound (A2), a specific fatty acid or its ester compound (A3), a specific organic acid derivative (A4) and a glycerin derivative (A5), an emulsifying-dispersing agent (B) and water-soluble sugars (C) or a particle containing the component (A) and water-soluble sugars (C′) having an emulsifying and dispersing function, the particle having a structure in which the component (A) is dispersed in the form of an oil droplet in the particle, to a method of producing the powdery fertilizer and to a powdery plant fertilizer composition containing at least one selected from these powdery plant fertilizers and a fertilizer component.
US07820592B2 Composition and devices for gas sorption and process for their manufacturing
Compositions and devices for gas sorption are provided that can be activated just before their use, which hence do not need storing under inert atmosphere during storage and transportation.
US07820589B2 Composite structures in an amorphous state for photocatalysis
The invention relates to photocatalysis.It concerns a composite system, comprising a photocatalytic component (10) in an amorphous state and an active medium (12) designed to neutralize the free charge carriers of a first type, electrons or positive holes, in order to protect the charge carriers of a second type from recombination.
US07820588B2 Carbon monoxide catalyst
The invention relates to a catalyst for the oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO) at low temperatures, which is a catalytically active composition based on platinum and cobalt. The catalyst can be used in the removal of CO from hydrogen-rich gas for fuel cell technology in order to avoid poisoning the electrodes with CO. Further fields of application relate to the automobile sector, and in particular, to the effective removal of CO during cold starting of a diesel or petrol engine and also to air purification systems for quality control of air in interior spaces, e.g., the removal of CO in a tunnel, an underground railway, multi-story car parks or submarines.
US07820585B2 Metal cluster-carrying metal oxide support and process for production thereof
The present invention provides a metal cluster-carrying metal oxide support wherein a metal cluster obtained by use of a dendrimer is prevented from migrating to the surface of support and being sintered, and a process for production thereof. The process for producing the metal cluster-carrying metal oxide support of the present invention comprises (a) coordinating a first metal ion to a dendrimer 10, (b) reducing the first metal ion coordinated to the dendrimer to precipitate a cluster 6a of the first metal in the dendrimer, (c) further coordinating a second metal ion 8 to the dendrimer, and (d) drying and firing the solution containing this dendrimer on a metal oxide support 9, wherein the oxide of the second metal is the same as the metal oxide constituting the metal oxide support, or a metal oxide capable of forming a composite oxide with the metal oxide constituting the metal oxide support. In the metal cluster-carrying metal oxide support of the present invention, the cluster 6a of the first metal is held by the oxide of the second metal 8 on the metal oxide support 9.
US07820580B2 Nickel-based catalysts for preparing high cis 1,4-polydienes
A nickel-carbene polymerization catalyst system for preparing high cis polydienes is provided. The catalyst system comprises (a) a nickel N-heterocyclic carbene complex, (b) an organoaluminum compound, (c) a fluorine-containing compound, and (d) optionally, an alcohol. Also provided is a process for producing a polydiene comprising reacting a conjugated diene in the presence of a polymerization catalyst comprising (a) a nickel N-heterocyclic carbene complex, (b) an organoaluminum compound, (c) a fluorine-containing compound, and (d) optionally, an alcohol.
US07820574B2 Grain leather-like sheet having excellent scratch resistance and abrasion resistance
A grain-finished leather-like sheet having a fibrous substrate layer, a polyurethane non-porous layer and a polyurethane surface layer which are successively laminated in this order. The polyurethane surface layer contains a binder polyurethane and polyurethane fine particles having a particle size of 1 to 50 μm. The total thickness of the polyurethane non-porous layer and the polyurethane surface layer is 150 μm or more. The polyurethane surface layer contains the polyurethane fine particles in an amount of 10 to 40 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the binder polyurethane. The polyurethane fine particles are not exposed to the surface. The grain-finished leather-like sheet characterized by the above features has a smooth and luster surface, a good hand, and excellent scratch resistance, abrasion resistance and buckling wrinkle resistance. The sheet hardly damages or soils an object which is in contact with its surface by friction.
US07820571B2 Woven or knitted fabric exhibiting reversibly changeable air permeability
A multi-layer woven or knitted fabric exhibiting reversibly changeable air permeability, which contains reversibly crimping cellulose acetate fibers exhibiting a percentage of crimp of less than 10% at a humidity of 95% or above and a percentage of crimp of 20% or above at a humidity of 45% or below and which has a basis weight of 100 to 350 g/m2. When water content of the fabric is enhanced by the absorption of water or moisture, the air permeability of the fabric increases to inhibit in-clothes stuffiness or stickiness due to sweat and in-clothes temperature rise, while when the fabric has discharged the water into the outside environment, the air permeability of the fabric decreases to the original one to prevent the body temperature from lowering excessively because of the heat of vaporization and thus keep the in-clothes environment comfortable.
US07820569B2 Composite sheet used for artificial leather with low elongation and excellent softness
A composite sheet used for artificial leather with low elongation and excellent softness which includes a non-woven fabric layer, a woven or knitted fabric layer and a polyurethane resin, wherein the non-woven fabric layer and the woven or knitted fabric layer are entangled with each other.
US07820568B2 Leather-like sheet and production method thereof
A leather-like sheet excellent in repulsive feeling is provided by a leather-like sheet substantially including a fibrous material which is a leather-like sheet in which a staple fiber nonwoven fabric (A) in which ultra-fine fibers of an average single fiber fineness of 0.0001 to 0.5 dtex and an average fiber length of 1 to 10 cm are entangled with each other and a woven or knitted fabric (B) including a conjugate fiber in which two or more polyesters are disposed in side-by-side or eccentric sheath-core relationship are laminated.
US07820563B2 Compositions and methods for imparting oil repellency and/or water repellency
Compositions and methods for treating substrates, such as fibrous materials, are disclosed. Such compositions and methods can be used to impart or maintain a level of oil repellency and/or water repellency in fibrous substrates such as paper-based materials and/or textiles. In general, such compositions can utilize a copolymer having a plurality of polycationic segments, which can be joined by various other polymeric segments such as silicones and/or hydrophilic polymeric segments. The copolymer can be formulated as a highly-branched polymer, which can have substantivity to a fibrous material to impart oil repellency and/or water repellency. In several instances, the copolymer can be formulated to be fluorine-free. Various details of such copolymers are discussed, as well as methods of utilizing and making such copolymers.
US07820562B2 Structure made from a thermoplastic composition of a polyolefin functionalised by polyether grafts and use thereof
The present invention relates to a structure comprising a substrate and at least one first layer applied to the substrate and made of a thermoplastic composition comprising at least one functionalized polyolefin obtained either by copolymerization or by grafting of a polyolefin backbone with an unsaturated monomer comprising an anhydride, acid or epoxide function, said functionalized polyolefin being grafted with polyether units comprising a terminal amine, by means of reactive extrusion, as a breathable waterproof material having a water vapor permeability of at least 300 g/m2 24 h−1 measured according to the standard ASTM E96, method BW (38° C./50% relative humidity), for a film of 25 μm.It also relates to the use of such a composition as a breathable waterproof material having a water vapor permeability of at least 300 g/m2 24 h−1 (measured according to the standard ASTM E96, method BW 38° C./50% relative humidity), for a film of 25 μm.
US07820561B2 Coated, water-vapor-pervious and fungus-resistant wovens, process of making, and articles made therefrom
Coated, water-vapor-pervious and fungus resistant wovens, their production and also their use as sun and weather protection articles, a precleaned industrial woven fabric being treated at least once with an aqueous impregnant comprising a fungicide and a hydrophobicizer. The fabric thus impregnated and then dried is subsequently coated with an aqueous polyurethane dispersion which likewise contains a fungicide. After drying, the coated fabric is reimpregnated. The wovens are notable for fungus resistance, good water vapor perviousness and good watertightness against a high hydrohead in particular.
US07820559B2 Structure to improve adhesion between top CVD low-K dielectric and dielectric capping layer
An interconnect structure in which the adhesion between an upper level low-k dielectric material, such as a material comprising elements of Si, C, O, and H, and an underlying diffusion capping dielectric, such as a material comprising elements of C, Si, N and H, is improved by incorporating an adhesion transition layer between the two dielectric layers. The presence of the adhesion transition layer between the upper level low-k dielectric and the diffusion barrier capping dielectric can reduce the chance of delamination of the interconnect structure during the packaging process. The adhesion transition layer provided herein includes a lower SiOx— or SiON-containing region and an upper C graded region. Methods of forming such a structure, in particularly the adhesion transition layer, are also provided.
US07820554B2 Method for unloading thermally treated non-planar silicon wafers with a conveying blade
A process for producing a silicon wafer by conveying a (100) face silicon wafer into and from a treating furnace of a single wafer heat-treating apparatus or a vapor phase growth apparatus with a conveying blade having a mounting face capable of mounting only a specified region of the wafer inclusive of a center position of its rear face for subjecting the wafer to a heat treatment or a vapor phase growth, in which <010> or <001> orientation is shifted by a predetermined angle with respect to a transverse direction of the mounting face of the conveying blade.
US07820549B2 Layered semiconductor wafer with low warp and bow, and process for producing it
Semiconductor wafers with a diameter of at least 200 mm comprise a silicon carrier wafer, an electrically insulating layer and a semiconductor layer located thereon, the semiconductor wafer having been produced by means of a layer transfer process comprising at least one RTA step, wherein the semiconductor wafer has a warp of less than 30 μm, a DeltaWarp of less than 30 μm, a bow of less than 10 μm and a DeltaBow of less than 10 μm. Processes for the production of a semiconductor wafer of this type require specific heat treatment regimens.
US07820548B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
A result of formation of an opening in a semiconductor substrate can be judged without cutting a semiconductor wafer and observing a cross-section of the cut wafer. A semiconductor device of this invention includes a semiconductor substrate, a pad electrode formed on the semiconductor substrate, an opening formed in the semiconductor substrate to expose the pad electrode, a wiring layer connected with the pad electrode through the opening and a monitoring opening formed in a scribe line to monitor a result of the formation of the opening.
US07820544B2 Method for forming metal wiring of semiconductor device and a semiconductor device manufactured by the same
A method for forming a metal wiring of a semiconductor device, includes forming a first metal layer on a wafer, partially etching a portion of the first metal layer where a metal wiring is to be formed, sequentially forming a first copper barrier layer, a copper seed layer, and a copper layer on the first metal layer, annealing the copper layer, polishing the resulting structure until the first metal layer is exposed, patterning the first metal layer and the first copper barrier layer to form a portion of a metal wiring, forming a second copper barrier layer, forming a second metal layer, and patterning the second metal layer and the second copper barrier layer to form the metal wiring.
US07820540B2 Metallization contact structures and methods for forming multiple-layer electrode structures for silicon solar cells
Metallization contact structures and methods for forming a multiple-layer electrode structure on solar cells include depositing a conductive contact layer on a semiconductor substrate and depositing a metal bearing ink onto a portion of the conductive contact layer, wherein exposed portions of the conductive contact layer are adjacent to the metal bearing ink. The conductive contact layer is patterned by removing exposed portions of the conductive contact layer from the semiconductor substrate. The metal bearing ink is aligned with openings in a dielectric layer of the semiconductor substrate and with unexposed portions of the conductive contact layer. The unexposed portions of the conductive contact layer are interposed between the metal bearing ink and the dielectric layer such that the conductive contact layer pattern is aligned with metal bearing ink. The semiconductor substrate is thermally processed to form a current carrying metal gridline by sintering the metal bearing ink.
US07820537B1 Method for fabricating semiconductor device
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device includes forming a polysilicon layer, a barrier metal layer, and a conductive layer over a substrate, forming gate hard masks over the conductive layer, etching the conductive layer and the barrier metal layer using the gate hard masks to form barrier metal electrodes and metal gate electrodes having a line width smaller than that of the gate hard masks, etching the polysilicon layer to form gate patterns, each gate pattern including a stack structure of a polysilicon electrode, the barrier metal electrode, the metal gate electrode, and the gate hard mask, forming a gate spacer over the surface profile of the substrate structure, forming an insulation layer over the gate spacer, etching the insulation layer to form a contact hole between the gate patterns and burying a conductive material over the contact hole to form a landing plug contact.
US07820535B2 Method for analyzing copper electroplating solution, apparatus for the analysis, and method for fabricating semiconductor product
Effective fillability and the uniformity electrodeposition of a copper electroplating solution is judged by determining the time-dependent potential change thereof at a cathode current density of 0.1-20 A/dm2. The potential change is determined at a working electrode rotation of 100-7500 rpm, and the fillability with the solution is judged from the curve profile. The time-dependent potential change curve within a predetermined period of time after the start of electrolysis is approximated according to the Boltzmann's function, and the potential change speed dx and the potential convergent point A2 are obtained to judge the fillability with a plating solution.
US07820533B2 Multi-step plasma doping with improved dose control
A method of multi-step plasma doping a substrate includes igniting a plasma from a process gas. A first plasma condition is established for performing a first plasma doping step. The substrate is biased so that ions in the plasma having the first plasma condition impact a surface of the substrate thereby exposing the substrate to a first dose. The first plasma condition transitions to a second plasma condition. The substrate is biased so that ions in the plasma having the second plasma condition impact the surface of the substrate thereby exposing the substrate to a second dose. The first and second plasma conditions are chosen so that the first and second doses combine to achieve a predetermined distribution of dose across at least a portion of the substrate.
US07820531B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device, method of manufacturing display apparatus, apparatus of manufacturing semiconductor device, and display apparatus
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes the steps of: modifying a semiconductor film by applying a laser beam; and forming a semiconductor device on the modified semiconductor film. In the step of modifying the semiconductor film, the laser beam and the substrate are moved relative to each other in a first direction and a second direction which is opposite to the first direction, a change in an optical characteristic between an area irradiated with the laser beam and an area which is not irradiated with the laser beam in the substrate or an optical characteristic of the irradiated area is measured in each of the first and second directions, and irradiation power of the laser beam is modulated so that the difference between a measurement result in the first direction and a measurement result in the second direction lies in a predetermined range.
US07820528B2 Method of forming a leaded molded array package
In one embodiment, a method for forming a leaded molded array package includes placing a lead frame assembly into a molding apparatus having lead cavities. The method further includes forming seals between conductive leads within the lead frame assembly and the lead cavities, and encapsulating the lead frame assembly to form a molded array assembly. The molded array assembly is then separated into individual leaded molded packages.
US07820523B2 Fabrication of active areas of different natures directly onto an insulator: application to the single or double gate MOS transistor
The invention concerns a micro-electronic device comprising a substrate, a first insulating zone and a second insulating zone laying on said substrate, a first active zone comprising at least one layer made of a first semi-conductor crystalline material, resting on said first insulating zone which insulates it from the substrate, at least one second active zone comprising at least one layer in a second semi-conductor crystalline material, laying on said second insulating zone which insulates it from the substrate, said first semi-conductor crystalline material having a different composition from that of the second semi-conductor crystalline material and/or different crystalline orientation from that of the second semi-conductor crystalline material and/or mechanical strains from that of the second semi-conductor crystalline material.
US07820520B2 Semiconductor device with capacitor and/or inductor and method of making
An integrated circuit has a plurality of terminals for making electrical connection to the integrated circuit. At least one device is formed adjacent an outer edge of the integrated circuit. The device includes at least one metal conductor for forming an edge seal for protecting the integrated circuit during die singulation. The device is coupled to one or more functional circuits within the integrated circuit by routing the at least one metal conductor to the one or more functional circuits, the at least one device providing a reactance value to the one or more functional circuits for non-test operational use. The device may be formed as one or more capacitors or as one or more inductors. Various structures may be used for the capacitor and the inductor.
US07820516B2 Methods of manufacturing non-volatile memory devices having a vertical channel
Disclosed are pairs of semiconductor flash memory cells including first and second source lines formed in a semiconductor substrate, semiconductor pillars extending from the substrate between the source lines, first and second charge storage structures formed on opposite side surfaces of the semiconductor pillar and separated by trench isolation structures. The x and y pitch separating adjacent semiconductor pillars in the memory cell array are selected whereby forming the trench isolation structures serves to separate both charge storage structures and conductive structures provided on opposite sides of a semiconductor pillars. Also disclosed are methods of fabricating such structures whereby the density of flash memory devices, particularly NOR flash memory devices, can be improved.
US07820515B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory element excellent in charge retention properties and process for producing the same
A process for producing a nonvolatile semiconductor memory having a mixed or laminated structure of a hardly oxidizable material composed of a hardly oxidizable element having Gibbs' free energy for forming oxide higher than that of Si under the same temperature condition at 1 atm and in temperature range of 0° C. to 1,200° C. and an oxide of an easily oxidizable material composed of an element having Gibbs' free energy for forming oxide lower than that of Si under the same temperature condition at 1 atm in the temperature range and Si. The process includes forming a portion of the hardly oxidizable material and a portion of the oxide by physical forming method and carrying out heat treatment in oxidizing and reducing gas mixture. The ratio of the gases and the temperature are controlled so that the hardly oxidizable material is reduced and the oxide is oxidized in the temperature range.
US07820509B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
The method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, including a first region where a transistor including a gate electrode of a stacked structure is formed, a second region where a transistor including a gate electrode of a single-layer structure is formed, and a third region positioned in a boundary part between the first region and the second region, includes: depositing a first conductive film, patterning the first conductive film in the first region and the third region so that the outer edge is positioned in the third region, depositing the second conductive film, patterning the second conductive film to form a control gate in the first region while leaving the second conductive film, covering the second region and having the inner edge positioned inner of the outer edge of the first conductive film, and patterning the second conductive film in the second region to form the gate electrode.
US07820504B2 Method for manufacturing differential isolation structures in a semiconductor electronic device and corresponding structure
Embodiments of this invention relate to a method for manufacturing isolation structures with different depths in a monolithically integrated semiconductor electronic device. An inventive method according to an embodiment of the invention comprises a first step of defining active areas on a semiconductor material substrate, a second step of forming isolation structures by realising trenches in said substrate and then filling them with field oxide, a third step of defining lithographically at least a first device area, and a fourth step of realising a digging in the substrate and in the field oxide of said first device area.
US07820502B2 Methods of fabricating vertical carbon nanotube field effect transistors for arrangement in arrays and field effect transistors and arrays formed thereby
A method for forming carbon nanotube field effect transistors, arrays of carbon nanotube field effect transistors, and device structures and arrays of device structures formed by the methods. The methods include forming a stacked structure including a gate electrode layer and catalyst pads each coupled electrically with a source/drain contact. The gate electrode layer is divided into multiple gate electrodes and at least one semiconducting carbon nanotube is synthesized by a chemical vapor deposition process on each of the catalyst pads. The completed device structure includes a gate electrode with a sidewall covered by a gate dielectric and at least one semiconducting carbon nanotube adjacent to the sidewall of the gate electrode. Source/drain contacts are electrically coupled with opposite ends of the semiconducting carbon nanotube to complete the device structure. Multiple device structures may be configured either as a memory circuit or as a logic circuit.
US07820500B2 Single mask scheme method and structure for integrating PMOS and NMOS transistors using strained silicon
A method for forming a CMOS integrated circuit using strained silicon technology. The method forms a liner layer overlying the first gate structure and the second gate structure and overlying first source/drain regions in the first well region and second source/drain regions in the second well region. In a preferred embodiment, the method patterns A spacer dielectric layer to form first sidewall spacer structures on the first gate structure, including the first edges and to form the second sidewall spacer structures on the second gate structure, including the second edges, while using a portion of the liner layer as a stop layer. The method maintains the liner layer overlying the first source/drain regions and second source/drain regions during at least the patterning of the spacer dielectric layer according to a preferred embodiment. The method also etches a first source region and a first drain region adjacent to the first gate structure using the hard mask layer and the first sidewall spacers as a protective layer. The method deposits a silicon germanium fill material into the first source region and the first drain region to fill the etched first source region and the etched first drain region while causing the first channel region between the first source region and the first drain region to be strained in compressive mode from at least the silicon germanium material formed in the first source region and the first drain region.
US07820492B2 Electrical fuse with metal silicide pipe under gate electrode
An electrical fuse (eFuse) has a gate prepared from a conductive or partially conductive material such as polysilicon, a semiconductor substrate having a pipe region in proximity to the gate, and first and second electrode regions adjacent the pipe region. A metal silicide layer is provided on the semiconductor substrate adjacent the pipe region. When a programming voltage is applied, the metal silicide undergoes a thermally induced phase transition in the pipe region. The eFuse has improved reliability and can be programmed with relatively low voltages.
US07820491B2 Light erasable memory and method therefor
A semiconductor device has a semiconductor substrate that in turn has a top semiconductor layer portion and a major supporting portion under the top semiconductor layer portion. An interconnect layer is over the semiconductor layer. A memory array is in a portion of the top semiconductor layer portion and a portion of the interconnect layer. The memory is erased by removing at least a portion of the major supporting portion and, after the step of removing, applying light to the memory array from a side opposite the interconnect layer. The result is that the memory array receives light from the backside and is erased.
US07820487B2 Manufacturing method of semiconductor device
A manufacturing method of a semiconductor device includes providing an adhesive on a supporting board, the supporting board being where a semiconductor element is to be mounted; providing a member configured to block flow of the adhesive on a first main surface of the semiconductor element, the semiconductor element having a second main surface where an outside connection terminal is provided; mounting the semiconductor element on a part of the supporting board where the adhesive is provided by pressing the semiconductor element via the member.
US07820486B2 Method of fabricating a semiconductor device having a heat sink with an exposed surface
A method includes: mounting a plurality of semiconductor elements on a substrate having wirings; connecting electrically electrodes of the semiconductor elements and the wirings; sealing the semiconductor elements with a resin, which is carried out by bringing a thermal conductor having a concavity and the substrate to be in contact with each other so that the semiconductor elements are positioned within the concavity and by filling the concavity with the resin; and separating respective semiconductor elements 1. In the resin-sealing step, in a state where the thermal conductor is arranged with its concavity facing up and the concavity of the thermal conductor is filled with a liquid resin, the semiconductor elements are dipped in the liquid resin in the concavity and the liquid resin is solidified. Due to these steps, a semiconductor device can be manufactured without experiencing troubles such as short circuit of the metal thin wires or imperfect filling of resin during the manufacturing steps, and thus semiconductor devices with stable quality can be manufactured.
US07820482B2 Method of producing an electronic component with flexible bonding
A method for producing an electronic component with an electronic circuit and electrical contacts, disposed at least on a first surface of the electronic component, for the electrical bonding of the electronic circuit includes at least one flexible elevation of an insulating material disposed on the first surface, at least one electrical contact disposed on the flexible elevation, and a conduction path disposed on the surface or in the interior of the flexible elevation between the electrical contact and the electronic circuit.
US07820479B2 Conductive ball mounting method
There is provided a method of mounting one conductive ball on each of a plurality of connection pads on a substrate. The method includes: (a) providing a pre-alignment base including: a support layer formed to allow a flux to pass therethrough; and an alignment layer provided on the support layer and having pockets for containing the conductive ball; (b) applying a paste containing the conductive balls dispersed in the flux onto the alignment layer such that each of the pockets receives one of the conductive balls together with the flux; (c) aligning the pre-alignment base with the substrate such that each of the pockets corresponds to one of the connections pads; and (d) transferring the paste contained in each of the pockets onto the connection pads, thereby mounting the conductive balls along with the flux on the connection pads.
US07820477B2 Organic thin film transistor array substrate and fabrication method thereof
An organic TFT array substrate and a fabricating method thereof are disclosed. In the organic TFT array substrate, a data line is disposed on a substrate and a gate line crosses the data line. A source electrode is connected to the data line. A drain electrode is disposed a predetermined distance from the source electrode. An organic semiconductor layer forms a channel between the source electrode and the drain electrode. An organic gate insulating film is disposed on the organic semiconductor layer with the same pattern as the organic semiconductor layer. A gate electrode overlies the organic semiconductor layer on the organic gate insulating film. A gate photo-resist pattern disposed on the gate electrode is used to form the gate electrode. A pixel electrode is connected to the drain electrode.
US07820475B2 Back side contact solar cell structures and fabrication processes
In one embodiment, active diffusion junctions of a solar cell are formed by diffusing dopants from dopant sources selectively deposited on the back side of a wafer. The dopant sources may be selectively deposited using a printing method, for example. Multiple dopant sources may be employed to form active diffusion regions of varying doping levels. For example, three or four active diffusion regions may be fabricated to optimize the silicon/dielectric, silicon/metal, or both interfaces of a solar cell. The front side of the wafer may be textured prior to forming the dopant sources using a texturing process that minimizes removal of wafer material. Openings to allow metal gridlines to be connected to the active diffusion junctions may be formed using a self-aligned contact opening etch process to minimize the effects of misalignments.
US07820470B2 Manufacturing method of micro-electro-mechanical device
A method of forming a microstructure body and a semiconductor element for controlling the microstructure body over the same substrate to reduce manufacturing cost, for mass-production of micromachines having a microstructure. In manufacturing a micromachine, a sacrifice layer is formed using a mask material for forming a pattern of a film, and removal of the mask in a region for forming a semiconductor element and removal of the sacrifice layer and the mask in a region for forming a microstructure body are performed by the same step. Specifically, a manufacturing method of a micro-electro-mechanical device is provided wherein a sacrifice layer is selectively formed over an insulating substrate, a semiconductor layer is formed to cover the sacrifice layer, a mask is formed over the semiconductor layer, the semiconductor layer is etched using the mask, and the mask and the sacrifice layer are removed by the same step.
US07820469B2 Stress-controlled dielectric integrated circuit
General purpose methods for the fabrication of integrated circuits from flexible membranes formed of very thin low stress dielectric materials, such as silicon dioxide or silicon nitride, and semiconductor layers. Semiconductor devices are formed in a semiconductor layer of the membrane. The semiconductor membrane layer is initially formed from a substrate of standard thickness, and all but a thin surface layer of the substrate is then etched or polished away. In another version, the flexible membrane is used as support and electrical interconnect for conventional integrated circuit die bonded thereto, with the interconnect formed in multiple layers in the membrane. Multiple die can be connected to one such membrane, which is then packaged as a multi-chip module. Other applications are based on (circuit) membrane processing for bipolar and MOSFET transistor fabrication, low impedance conductor interconnecting fabrication, flat panel displays, maskless (direct write) lithography, and 3D IC fabrication.
US07820467B2 Imaging device and method that cancels voltage signal noise based on pre-saturated charges and supersaturated charges
A solid-state imaging device, a line sensor and an optical sensor for enhancing a wide dynamic range while keeping high sensitivity with a high S/N ratio, and a method of operating a solid-state imaging device for enhancing a wide dynamic range while keeping high sensitivity with a high S/N ratio are provided. The solid-state imaging device comprises an integrated array of a plurality of pixels, each of which comprises a photodiode PD for receiving light and generating photoelectric charges, a transfer transistor Tr1 for transferring the photoelectric charges, and a storage capacitor element C connected to the photodiode PD at least through the transfer transistor Tr1 for accumulating, at least through the transfer transistor Tr1, the photoelectric charge overflowing from the photodiode PD during accumulating operation.
US07820463B2 Nitride-based light emitting device and manufacturing method thereof
A light emitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: an n-type cladding layer; a p-type cladding layer; an active layer interposed between the n-type cladding layer and the p-type cladding layer; and an ohmic contact layer contacting the p-type cladding layer or the n-type cladding layer and comprising a first film that comprises a transparent conductive zinc oxide having a one-dimensional nano structure, wherein the one-dimensional nano structure is at least one selected from a nano-column, a nano rod, and a nano wire.
US07820462B2 Encapsulated optical package
A method for providing an encapsulated optoelectronic chip is provided. The optoelectronic chip is secured on a substrate. A translucent coating substance is then applied on said optoelectronic chip and the translucent coating substance is then polished away to enable an optical coupling.
US07820457B2 Method of NBTI prediction
A method includes measuring a gate leakage current of a plurality of transistors. A single stress bias voltage is applied to the plurality of transistors. The stress bias voltage causes a 10% degradation in a drive current of each transistor within a respective stress period t. One or more relationships are determined, between the measured gate leakage current and one or more of the group consisting of gate voltage, gate length, gate temperature, and gate width of the plurality of transistors, respectively. A negative bias temperature instability (NBTI) lifetime τ of the plurality of transistors is estimated, based on the measured gate leakage current and the one or more relationships.
US07820456B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
When adopting a stack-type capacitor structure for a ferroelectric capacitor structure (30), an interlayer insulating film (27) is formed between a lower electrode (39) (or a barrier conductive film) and a conductive plug (22) to eliminate an impact of orientation/level difference on a surface of the conductive plug (22) onto the ferroelectric film (40). Differently from a conductive film like the lower electrode (39) or the barrier conductive film, the interlayer insulating film (27) can be formed without inheriting the orientation/level difference from its lower layers by planarizing the surface thereof.
US07820455B2 Method for manufacturing a tunnel junction magnetoresistive sensor with improved performance and having a CoFeB free layer
A method for manufacturing a magnetoresistive sensor that provides increased magnetoresistive performance. The method includes forming a series of sensor layers with at least one layer containing CoFeB, and having a first capping layer thereover. A high temperature annealing is performed to optimize the grains structure of the sensor layers. The first capping layer is then removed, such as by reactive ion etching (RIE). An antiferromagnetic layer is then deposited followed by a second capping layer. A second annealing is performed to set the magnetization of the pinned layer, the second annealing being performed at a lower temperature than the first annealing.
US07820453B2 Cardiovascular safety assay
The present invention provides assays and kits for the screening of test compounds for their capability to induce cardiotoxicity in a subject. Said assays and kits are based on the finding that the interaction of astemizole with the HERG potassium channel can be exploited to predict cardiotoxicity of compounds during the development of new therapeutics and other agents.
US07820452B2 Transparent elastomer safety shield
Transparent elastomer safety shields for laboratory glassware subjected to vacuum evacuation, and for electronic components, is disclosed. Removable glassware sheaths permit viewing vacuum processes while protecting personnel from implosion hazards. Removable sheaths also permit adding conventional heat transfer materials such as powders, strips, and fluids to the sheath prior to securing to the glassware to assist evaporation and sublimation procedures. Further, the addition of thermally conductive nanopowders, such as copper, aluminum, and iron to flowable polymer formulations prior to curing into a solid elastomer, provides enhanced thermal conductivity for these transparent sheaths, and for “see through” heat sink potting compounds for protective covering of electronic components.
US07820443B2 Fast method of transforming competent cells
The invention relates to a fast method of transforming competent cells, comprising: a. mixing a plasmid DNA with the competent cells suspending within ionic solution to form a mixture; b. plating the mixture on a warm selective medium; and c. culturing the mixture on the medium; wherein the ionic solution comprises divalent cation selected from the group consisting of Ca2+, Mg2+, Mn2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Cd2+, Fe2+, Sr2+ and Co2+, and provided that the ionic solution does not include Ca2+ alone.
US07820441B2 Production of viral vectors
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the production of viral vectors. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions for faster, higher titer and higher purity production of viral vectors (e.g. adenoviral vectors). In some embodiments, the present invention provides gutted and helper viruses with identical or similar termini. In other embodiments, the present invention provides terminal protein linked adenoviral DNA. In certain embodiments, the present invention provides template extended adenoviral DNA.
US07820440B2 Means and methods for producing adenovirus vectors
The invention relates to methods and means for producing adenoviral vectors on complementing cell lines, wherein the early region 4 open reading frame 6 (E4-orf6) encoding nucleic acid is present in the adenoviral vector and wherein the E4-orf6 gene product is compatible with one or more products of the E1 gene products provided by the complementing cell, such that the adenoviral vector can be efficiently produced by the complementing cell.
US07820439B2 In vitro generation of GABAergic neurons from pluripotent stem cells
The present disclosure is directed to improved methods for efficiently producing neuroprogenitor cells and differentiated neural cells such as GABAergic neurons from pluripotent stem cells, for example embryonic stem cells. Using the disclosed methods, cell populations containing a high proportion of GABAergic neurons have been isolated. The neuroprogenitor cells and terminally differentiated cells of the present disclosure can be generated in large quantities, and therefore may serve as an excellent source for cell replacement therapy in neurodegenerative disorders and neuronal diseases such as stroke, ischemia, epilepsy, and Huntington's disease.
US07820432B2 Triphasic bioreactor and process for gas effluent treatment
A triphasic bioreactor for physico-chemically treating a gas is disclosed. The triphasic bioreactor comprises a reaction chamber with a liquid and biocatalysts in suspension in the liquid, for catalyzing a reaction between the gas and the liquid to obtain a treated gas and a solution containing a reaction product. A gas bubbling means is provided in the reaction chamber for bubbling the gas to be treated into the liquid thereby dissolving the gas into the liquid and increasing a pressure inside the reaction chamber. The bioreactor further comprises a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the reaction chamber for receiving the liquid and filling the reaction chamber, a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the reaction chamber for releasing the solution and a gas outlet in fluid communication with the reaction chamber to release the treated gas. The bioreactor further comprises a retention device to retain the biocatalysts in the reaction chamber. The invention also concerns a process using the triphasic bioreactor. The triphasic bioreactor may advantageously be used for removing carbonic dioxide from a CO2-containing gas.
US07820429B2 Method for dry fermentation and equipment for carrying out the same
The present invention relates to a method for dry fermentation and equipment for carrying out the same. The invention equipment comprises a fermentation tank for dry fermentation which includes a tank body 5 for accommodating materials, a flexible sealing membrane 7 for covering said tank body 5, and a tight fixing means 3 for hermetically covering the tank body 5 with the flexible sealing membrane 7. This invention is characterized in that said tank body 5 is provided with a top opening 2 at its top part and at least one side opening 4 for loading and unloading materials at its side portions. When the tank body 5 is covered hermetically by the flexible sealing membrane 7, said tight fixing means 3 makes the contact area 6 between the tank body 5 and the flexible sealing membrane 7 form at least one sealing contacting strip or at least one sealing line which is continuous and close in three-dimensional space so that the flexible sealing membrane 7 covers hermetically both the top opening 2 and at least one side opening 4 for loading and unloading materials.
US07820428B2 Portable light generation and detection system
A field deployable optical assembly for use in testing a light-responsive sample is disclosed. The assembly includes a microfluidic device, a first optical package, and a second optical package. The first optical package includes a light emitting diode (LED), a first optical device, and a first light-path control, the first optical package configured to guide and focus light from the LED onto the sample. The microfluidic device includes a tethered control substance. In response to a substance within the sample being associated with, and attaching to, the tethered control, the sample emits light. The second optical package includes a photo sensor, a second optical device, and a second light-path control, the second optical package configured to guide and focus the light emitted from the sample onto the photo sensor.
US07820427B2 Microfluidic device and methods of using same
A variety of elastomeric-based microfluidic devices and methods for using and manufacturing such devices are provided. Certain of the devices have arrays of reaction sites to facilitate high throughput analyses. Some devices also include reaction sites located at the end of blind channels at which reagents have been previously deposited during manufacture. The reagents become suspended once sample is introduced into the reaction site. The devices can be utilized with a variety of heating devices and thus can be used in a variety of analyses requiring temperature control, including thermocycling applications such as nucleic acid amplification reactions, genotyping and gene expression analyses.
US07820421B2 Ketoreductases and uses thereof
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.
US07820420B2 Compositions including ammonia oxidizing bacteria to increase production of nitric oxide and nitric oxide precursors and methods of using same
A method of enhancing health through the generation in close proximity of a surface of a subject, nitric oxide and nitric oxide precursors using bacteria adapted to oxidize ammonia and urea derived from perspiration is described. Local and systemic effects are described including reduction in vascular disease, enhancement of sexual function, improved skin health, and reduced transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
US07820414B2 Xylitol dehydrogenase-inactivated and arabinose reductase-inhibited mutant of Candida tropicalis, method of producing high-yield of xylitol using the same, and xylitol produced thereby
Disclosed herein are Xylitol dehydrogenase-inactivated and arabinose reductase-inhibited mutant of Candida tropicalis, a method of producing a high yield of xylitol using the same, and xylitol produced by the method. More specifically, disclosed are a method for producing a high yield of xylitol, in which a high concentration of xylose contained in a biomass hydrolyzate is converted to xylitol using xylitol dehydrogenase-inactivated mutant of Candida tropicalis, without controlling dissolved oxygen to a low level, as well as xylitol produced according to the method. Also disclosed are a xylitol production method, in which the production of byproduct arabitol, which is produced when using a biomass as a substrate and adversely affects the yield of xylitol, is significantly reduced through the use of Candida tropicalis mutant ara-89 (KCTC 11136bp) having an inhibited activity of arabinose reductase converting arabinose to arabitol, thus increasing xylitol productivity, as well as xylitol produced by the method.
US07820412B2 Method of error reduction in nucleic acid populations
A method is disclosed for the direct synthesis of double stranded DNA molecules of a variety of sizes and with any desired sequence. The DNA molecule to be synthesis is logically broken up into smaller overlapping DNA segments. A maskless microarray synthesizer is used to make a DNA microarray on a substrate in which each element or feature of the array is populated by DNA of a one of the overlapping DNA segments. The complement of each segment is also made in the microarray. The DNA segments are released from the substrate and held under conditions favoring hybridization of DNA, under which conditions the segments will hybridize to form duplexes. The duplexes are then separated using a DNA binding agent which binds to improperly formed DNA helixes to remove errors from the set of DNA molecules. The segments can then be hybridized to each other to assemble the larger target DNA sequence.
US07820407B2 Schizochytrium fatty acid synthase (FAS) and products and methods related thereto
Disclosed are a fatty acid synthase (FAS) from Schizochytrium, biologically active fragments and homologues thereof, a nucleic acid sequence encoding such FAS, fragments and homologues thereof, the gene encoding Schizochytrium FAS, host cells and organisms that recombinantly express the FAS, host cells and organisms in which the expression and/or activity of the endogenous FAS has been attenuated, and various methods for making and using any of these proteins, nucleic acid molecules, genes, host cells or organisms.
US07820405B2 Specific bacterial inclusions in bone marrow cells indicate systematic lupus erthematosus, and treatment for lupus
A method for diagnosing for the presence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a patient is disclosed. In accordance with this method, megakaryocytes present in bone marrow of a person suspected of having SLE are assayed for the presence of internal bacterial structures that specifically stain with an intercalating dye. The presence of those specifically stainable structures within the patient's megakaryocytes indicates that the patient has SLE. Treatment of an SLE patient with an antibiotic is contemplated. Treatment of a patient that has SLE comprises administering to that patient (i) an antibacterial amount of a rifamycin along with an antibacterial amount of a macrolide, (ii) an antibacterial amount of a tetracycline, or (iii) an antibacterial amount of a quinolone, or a mixture of two or more of i, ii and iii. The treatment is continued until the patient's megakaryocytes no longer contain specifically stainable structures, and until no further evidence of infection is present.
US07820404B2 Protein cleavage method and use thereof
The present invention provides a method for cleaving a glycated protein to obtain an amino acid or a peptide efficiently with a protease. By treating the glycated protein with the protease in the presence of a compound represented by R—X, the amino acid or the peptide is obtained by the cleavage. The R represents an alkyl compound with a carbon number of 9 or more, and preferably is straight-chain alkyl or straight-chain acyl with a carbon number of 9 to 16, branched-chain alkyl or branched-chain acyl with a carbon number of 10 to 40 and a main-chain carbon number of 9 to 16, or straight-chain alkyl that is substituted by cycloalkyl (a carbon number of the cycloalkyl ranges from 3 to 8, and a carbon number of the straight chain ranges from 4 to 13), where X is a sugar residue. Moreover, the glycated protein is, for example, glycated hemoglobin, and preferably β-chain N-terminal amino acid or a β-chain N-terminal peptide is cleaved by the protease treatment.
US07820403B2 ACTR-1, a novel human acyltransferase and uses thereof
The invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules, designated ACTR-1 nucleic acid molecules, which encode novel acyltransferase family members. The invention also provides antisense nucleic acid molecules, recombinant expression vectors containing ACTR-1 nucleic acid molecules, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and nonhuman transgenic animals in which an ACTR-1 gene has been introduced or disrupted. The invention still further provides isolated ACTR-1 proteins, fusion proteins, antigenic peptides and anti-ACTR-1 antibodies. Diagnostic methods utilizing compositions of the invention are also provided.
US07820401B2 Collagen VI and cancer
Methods of determining whether a cancer is progressing by measuring surface-bound collagen VIα3 are provided. Also provided are methods of identifying hyperplasia in a tissue by measuring surface-bound collagen VIα3. Additionally, methods of identifying carcinoma in a tissue by measuring surface-bound collagen VIα3 are provided. Further provided are methods of imaging carcinoma in a tissue by staining the tissue with a specific binding partner to collagen VIα3. Methods of treating a cancer by preventing binding of collagen VIα3 onto cells of the cancer are additionally provided.
US07820400B2 Tumor-associated marker
The present invention provides monoclonal antibody-producing hybridomas designated 27.F7 and 27.B1. The invention provides a method of detecting TIP-2 antigen bearing cancer cells in a sample. The invention provides a method of detecting TIP-2 antigen on the surface of cancer cells. The invention provides a method for diagnosing cancer in a subject. The invention provides a method for delivering exogenous material to TIP-2 antigen-bearing cancer cells of a human subject. The invention provides a method for treating cancer in a human subject. The invention provides isolated peptides having the amino acid sequences Lys Leu Leu Gly Gly Gln Ile Gly Leu (SEQ. ID No.) and Ser Leu Leu Gly Cys Arg His Tyr Glu Val (SEQ. ID No.). The invention provides a method for immunohistochemical screening of a tissue section for the presence of TIP-2 antigen bearing cancer cells. The invention provides a kit for detecting the presence of TIP-2 antigen-bearing cancer cells. The invention provides a method for detecting the presence of TIP-2 antigen. The invention provides a method for immunohistochemical screening of tissue sections. The invention provides a method for monitoring progression of cancer wherein the cancer cells are TIP-2 antigen-bearing cells. The invention provides a method for diagnosing cancer associated with the expression of TIP-2.
US07820399B2 Methods for characterizing glycosylation sites
The present invention provides methods for isolating and characterizing the glycosylation sites of a glycoprotein, such as a glycosylated antibody. In particular, the methods employ affinity capture, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry to determine, for example, the location of the glycopeptide, the heterogeneity of the glycan attached to the glycopeptide, the mass of the glycopeptide, and/or the peptide sequence.
US07820391B2 Baseless nucleotide analogues and uses thereof
A method of detecting a target nucleic acid.
US07820389B2 Inhibition of mismatch hybridization by a universal competitor DNA
Provided herein are compositions and methods for enhancing the relative efficiency of hybridization between target nucleic acids and capture probes compared to target variants and capture probes.
US07820388B2 Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene mutations
The present invention provides novel mutations of the CFTR gene related to cystic fibrosis or to conditions associated with cystic fibrosis. Also provided are probes for detecting the mutant sequences. Methods of identifying if an individual has a genotype containing one or more mutations in the CFTR gene are further provided.
US07820385B2 Method for retaining methylation pattern in globally amplified DNA
A method for preserving information about cytosine methylation status in amplified nucleic acid molecules is disclosed. The method includes contacting a sample that contains nucleic acid molecules, such as nucleic acid molecules having or suspected of having methylated cytosines, with a modifying agent that converts the unmethylated cytosines to produce converted nucleic acid molecules. The converted nucleic acid molecule retains information about cytosine methylation. The method further involves contacting the sample with a DNA polymerase to amplify the converted nucleic acid molecules by multiple strand displacement amplification. The sample is not contacted with a nucleic acid ligase or an RNA polymerase. Also disclosed are methods for detecting cytosine methylation in a sample. Such methods include detecting the presence of the signature of cytosine methylation in a bisulfite treated DNA sample that has been amplified by multiple strand displacement.
US07820384B2 Methods and compositions for protein expression and purification
Methods for enhancing expression levels and secretion of heterologous fusion proteins in a host cell are disclosed.
US07820383B2 Method for diagnosing myocardial infarction
The kits and methods of the present invention relate to the diagnosis of cardiovascular disorders. In one aspect, the invention discloses a method and a kit for determining whether a subject has a fragile plaque disorder. In one aspect, the invention discloses a method and a kit for determining whether the subject has an occlusive disorder. In one aspect, the invention discloses a method and a kit for determining whether the subject has a restenosis disorder. Other methods of the present invention relate to the selection of therapeutics for a patient with a cardiovascular disease.
US07820379B2 Process for high throughput screening of CpG-based immuno-agonist/antagonist
The invention pertains to murine TLR9 and related TLR9s which include murine-specific amino acids, as well as nucleic acids which encode those polypeptides. The present invention also includes fragments and biologically functional variants of the murine TLR9. The invention further relates to methods of using such murine and non-murine TLR9 nucleic acids and polypeptides, especially in methods for screening for agonists and antagonists of immunostimulatory CpG nucleic acids. Also included are murine TLR9 inhibitors which inhibit murine TLR9 activity by inhibiting the expression or function of murine TLR9. In a further aspect the present invention pertains to murine TLR7 and murine TLR8, as well as related TLR7 and TLR8 molecules which include murine-specific amino acids, as well as nucleic acids which encode those polypeptides. The present invention also includes fragments and biologically functional variants of the murine TLR7 and TLR8. Methods are included for screening for ligands of TLR7 and TLR8, as well as for inhibitors and agonists and antagonists of signaling mediated by TLR7 and TLR8.
US07820378B2 Fragmentation-based methods and systems for sequence variation detection and discovery
Fragmentation-based methods and systems, particularly mass spectrometric methods and systems, for the analysis of sequence variations are provided.
US07820375B2 Use of a protein of the CRMP family for treating diseases related to the immune system
The invention concerns the use of at least a protein of the CRMP family, a polypeptide fragment or an active biological derivative thereof, a nucleotide sequence or sequence fragment coding for said protein, an antisense sequence capable of being specifically hybridized with a sequence with nucleotide-type encoding of said protein or an antibody directed against said protein for producing a medicine for treating diseases related to a dysfunction of the immune system. The invention also concerns a method for diagnosing an autoimmune pathology which consists in measuring the expression of a CRMP protein in the lymphocytes.
US07820371B2 Method for removing viruses and leukocytes from blood using a surface comprising hydroxyl and polyethylene glycol groups
It is intended to provide a method whereby a virus and leukocytes can be simultaneously eliminated from virus-containing blood and platelets can be recovered at a high yield, and a material and an apparatus therefor. A water-soluble carrier having surface which is capable of capturing a virus and leukocytes in blood but allows the permeation of platelets therethrough is brought into contact with virus-containing blood. Thus the virus and leukocytes can be simultaneously removed from the blood while platelets can be recovered at a high yield.
US07820368B2 Photoresist stripper composition and methods for forming wire structures and for fabricating thin film transistor substrate using composition
A photoresist stripper composition, a method for forming wire structures thereby, and a method of fabricating a thin film transistor substrate using the composition. The photoresist stripper composition includes about 50 WT % to about 70 WT % of butyldiglycol, about 20 to about 40 WT % of an alkylpyrrolidone, about 1 WT % to about 10 WT % of an organic amine compound, about 1 to about 5 WT % of aminopropylmorpholine, and about 0.01 to about 0.5 WT % of a mercapto compound.
US07820367B2 Resist pattern thickening material and process for forming resist pattern, and semiconductor device and process for producing the same
The object of the present invention is to provide a process for forming a resist pattern that is capable to utilize excimer laser beam, the thickening level of the resist pattern is controllable uniformly, constantly and precisely, without being affected substantially by environmental changes such as temperatures and humidity, and storage period, and space pattern of resist may be formed with a fineness exceeding exposure limits or resolution limits of available irradiation sources. The process for producing a semiconductor device is characterized in that forming a resist pattern on a surface of workpiece, coating a resist pattern thickening material on the resist pattern, thickening the resist pattern to form a thickened resist pattern, and patterning the surface of workpiece by etching using the thickened resist pattern as a mask, wherein the resist pattern thickening material comprises a resin, and exhibits a pH value of above 7 and not over 14 at coating or after coating on the resist pattern.
US07820366B2 Method of writing identifying information on wafer
A method of writing identifying information comprises: the step of forming a metal film on a wafer; the step of forming a resist layer on the metal film; the step of exposing the resist layer by projecting a pattern for an alignment mark on the resist layer; the first development step of developing the resist layer; the step of exposing the resist layer by projecting a pattern for the identifying information onto the resist layer using the pattern formed in the resist layer in the first development step as a reference of a location; the second development step of developing the resist layer; the step of selectively etching the metal film using the resist layer as an etching mask; and removing the resist layer.
US07820364B2 Semiconductor device manufacturing method, mask manufacturing method, and exposure method
In order to form a transfer pattern of desired size with high accuracy, a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes a process of forming the transfer pattern including a line whose width and angle varies, by performing multiple exposure using a plurality of masks having different patterns over different mask substrates.
US07820363B2 Process for forming a solder mask, apparatus thereof and process for forming electric-circuit patterned internal dielectric layer
In a process for forming a solder mask, a photoimageable ink is coated on a carrier film to form a photoimageable ink layer on the carrier film. The photoimageable ink layer is dried to form a photoimageable resist layer, thereby forming at least one photoimageable resist layer bearing film. The photoimageable resist layer bearing film is laminated on at least one side of a substrate so as to bring the upper surface of the photoimageable resist layer into contact with the substrate. The photoimageable resist layer is exposed to light imagewise through the carrier film. The carrier film is removed from the photoimageable resist layer to form an exposed resist layer. The exposed resist layer is developed to form a developed resist layer. The developed resist layer is cured to form a solder mask on the substrate.
US07820362B2 Method of pattern delineation
A method of delineating a lithographic pattern on a material. A pattern to be delineated is divided according to first and second fields by first and second methods of division. Pattern segments contained in the first fields are divided in the X-direction, and data about the resulting pattern subsegments is obtained. Pattern segments contained in the second fields are divided in the Y-direction, and data about the resulting pattern subsegments is obtained. The two methods are so carried out that a pattern segment located across a field boundary during implementation of one of the two methods of division is located around the center of a field during implementation of the other method. In each field, the pattern segments obtained by the X division and Y division, respectively, are overlapped and written with a half of the dose normally used.
US07820361B2 Lithographic printing plate precursor and method for preparation of lithographic printing plate
A lithographic printing plate precursor includes: a support; and a photosensitive layer containing (A) an initiator compound, (B) a polymerizable compound and (C) a binder, wherein the photosensitive layer or other layer in contact with the support contains as (D) a component different from the component (C), a copolymer containing (a1) a repeating unit having at least one ethylenically unsaturated bond introduced through an ion pair and (a2) a repeating unit having at least one functional group capable of interacting with a surface of the support.
US07820359B2 Heat-sensitive transfer image-receiving sheet and coating composition for forming heat-sensitive transfer image-receiving sheet
A coating composition for forming a heat-sensitive transfer image-receiving sheet provided with at least one receptor layer on a support, wherein the composition comprises a latex polymer containing a repeating unit derived from a monomer represented by formula (1); and a heat-sensitive transfer image-receiving sheet prepared by using the coating composition: wherein, R1 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or a methyl group; L1 represents a divalent linking group; R2 represents an alkylene group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms which may be further substituted; n represents an integer of 1 to 40; Z1 represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms, a cycloalkyl group, or an aryl group; and when n is 2 or more, R2s may be the same or different.
US07820358B2 Photo-resist material structure and method of producing the same
An apparatus includes a substrate and a photoresist material structure arranged adjacent to the substrate so that a cavity is formed between the substrate and the photoresist material structure. The cavity has an opening. The photoresist material structure includes a frame portion disposed on a main side of the substrate and a cap portion spanning over a part of the main side of the substrate at a distance to the main side. The cap portion is formed in the first photoresist layer and the frame portion is formed in the second photoresist layer.
US07820355B2 Radiation sensitive resin composition
A radiation sensitive resin composition which contains an alicyclic olefin resin obtained by ring-opening polymerization of a polymerizable monomer containing an alicyclic olefin monomer having carboxyl group using a ruthenium catalyst, followed by hydrogenation, an acid-generating agent, a crosslinking agent and a solvent; and a transparent resin pattern film formed on a substrate obtained by laminating a resin film formed by using the resin composition described above to the substrate, followed by irradiation with an active radiation to form a latent pattern and developing the pattern by bringing the resin film having the latent pattern into contact with a developing solution. The resin composition exhibits excellent property for development and storage stability. The transparent resin pattern film obtained from the resin composition exhibits excellent specific permittivity, transparency, dimensional stability under heating, solvent resistance and flatness and can be utilized as the resin film for electronic parts.
US07820353B2 Method for producing toner
A method for producing a toner, including at least the following steps: step (A): pulverizing a negatively chargeable charge control resin that does not soften at a temperature of 180° C. or lower to an average particle size of from 0.05 to 2 μm; step (B): melt-kneading at least a pulverized product of the negatively chargeable charge control resin obtained in the step (A), a resin binder, and a colorant; and step (C): pulverizing a melt-kneaded product obtained in the step (B) and classifying the pulverized product. The toner obtained according to the present invention is suitably used in, for example, the development of a latent image formed in electrophotography, electrostatic recording method, electrostatic printing method or the like.
US07820349B2 Toner for electrostatic latent image development, production method thereof, and developer for electrostatic latent image development
The invention provides a toner for electrostatic latent image development comprising a first component and a second component which are isolated from each other and capable of forming a color when the first component and the second component are brought into reaction with each other, and a photo-curable composition containing either the first component or the second component, the photo-curable composition not being capable of forming a color when the photo-curable composition is not cured, that is irreversibly controlled to a state of being capable of forming a color by irradiating light having a specific wavelength at which the photo-curable composition is cured.
US07820347B1 Conversion of salt halides to nitrate salts
Methods of preparing heterocyclic triazolium-based nitrate salts by a streamlined process are provided. Such salts offer energetic performance as well as pharmaceutical potential.
US07820346B2 Method for collecting optical proximity correction parameter
This invention relates to a method for collecting an Optical Proximity Correction parameter, which includes: performing an Optical Proximity Correction for a test line containing a non-right turning-angle to generate a to-be-exposed pattern having an assistant line; obtaining, by way of simulation or actual exposure, a formed line generated from the to-be-exposed pattern being exposed; and comparing the formed line with the test line to determine a difference there between so as to determine whether there is a redundant part and/or a missing part in the assistant line at location of the turning-angle of the test line. Being compared with the prior art, this invention sets the non-right turning-angle in the to-be-exposed test line. By comparing the formed line (which is generated by simulation or actual exposure) of the above test line with the test line itself, the redundant part and/or the missing part of the assistant line, as well as proximity data such as the position of the redundant part and/or the missing part and the like, can be obtained. Then, these proximity data can be used to correct and perfect the OPC model having a line containing a non-right turning-angle.
US07820345B2 Exposure mask and a method of making a semiconductor device using the mask
Disclosed herein are an exposure mask and a method of making a semiconductor device using the mask. The exposure mask includes a transparent substrate; and a light blocking pattern having first and second patterns, and an assist feature disposed between the first and second patterns and including a dot pattern arranged into two rows deviated from each other. The exposure make can improve the depth of focus margin to allow for the high integration of a semiconductor device.
US07820338B2 Liquid fuel cartridge and direct liquid feed fuel cell having the same
A liquid fuel cartridge of a direct liquid feed fuel cell for storing liquid fuel, supplying the liquid fuel to a fuel cell, and recovering water from the cathode of the fuel cell stack. The liquid fuel cartridge has a liquid fuel supplying hole formed at one end, a recovery hole formed at a second end, and a moveable wall that separates the water from the liquid fuel. When water is pumped in through the recovery hole, the moveable wall slides in the fuel cartridge and expels the liquid fuel into the fuel cell stack. The fuel cartridge also includes a transparent window or a metal detector for determining the position of the moveable wall and, thus, the quantity of liquid fuel remaining in the fuel cartridge.
US07820335B2 Plate for a fuel cell assembly
A unitized plate such as a bipolar plate for a fuel cell assembly is provided. The unitized plate includes a plurality of active regions electrically insulated from one another, and a plurality of inlet and outlet apertures formed in the plate. Each of the active regions is in fluid communication with a dedicated inlet aperture adapted to selectively deliver gaseous reactants thereto. A fuel cell assembly having a plurality of independently operable fuel cell stack units, and a method for operating the fuel cell assembly, is also provided.
US07820334B2 Fuel cell and oxidant distribution plate for fuel cell
To provide a fuel cell and an oxidant distributing plate for the fuel cell. A water created in the fuel cell is used to humidify an oxidant gas and/or a fuel flowing in an opposite passage opposite to a MEA. The fuel cell includes a MEA 1, an oxidant distributing plate 3 disposed facing to an oxidant pole for supplying an oxidant gas thereto, and a fuel distributing plate 4 disposed facing to an fuel pole for supplying the fuel thereto. At least one of the oxidant distributing plate 3 and the fuel distributing plate 4 is provided with an opposite passage 31, 41 formed on an opposite surface opposite to the MEA, and a reaction passage 32, 42 formed on a facing surface facing to the MEA, and communicated with the opposite passage 31, 41.
US07820333B2 Fuel cell operating method with improved hydrogen and oxygen utilization
A fuel cell system wherein a plurality of fuel cells are arranged in a series of stages, the number of fuel cells decreasing in number in each stage from anode gas inlet to the anode gas outlet. The system allows for parallel flow to all of the cells in a given stage and series flow between the various stages. A similar configuration is present on a cathode side of the system. However, the direction of flow is reversed, providing a greater number of cells in the stage nearest the cathode outlet and a fewer number of cells in the stage near the cathode gas inlet. The invention further provides for the various stages to be configured such that the direction of flow of the anode gas of a given stage is generally opposite the direction of flow of the cathode gas of a given stage.
US07820329B2 Wafer alkaline cell
A wafer alkaline cell of a laminar structure is disclosed. The cell has a pair of opposing sides comprising at least the majority of the boundary surface of said cell and defining a short cell dimension therebetween. The cell comprises an anode assembly and a cathode assembly bonded together to form a laminate structure. The cell comprises preferably two separate plastic frames housing the anode and cathode material. The anode current collector may be precoated with a sealing metal forming an alkaline resistant metal oxide film to improve bonding to the frame. The anode assembly has an anode material therein typically comprising zinc and the cathode assembly has a cathode material therein typically comprising manganese dioxide. The cell is durable and preferably rigid, has elongated leak block paths, and resists electrolyte leakage.
US07820328B1 Electrochemical cell electrode with improved particle-to-particle contact and method of manufacturing
An electrochemical cell comprising an electrode, whether it is the cathode of a primary cell or an anode or a cathode of a secondary cell, comprised of a mixture of a robust, high temperature binder along with a sacrificial decomposable polymer is described. The robust binder remains in the electrode throughout formation and processing, and maintains adhesion and cohesion of the cathode during utilization. The sacrificial decomposable polymer is present during the electrode formation stage. However, it is decomposed via a controlled treatment prior to electrode utilization. Upon subsequent high pressure pressing, the void spaces formerly occupied by the sacrificial polymer provides sites where the electrode active material collapses into a tightly compressed mass with enhanced particle-to-particle contact between the active material particles. For a cathode in a primary cell, for example a Li/SVO cell, the result is believed to be improved rate capability, capacity and stability throughout discharge.
US07820320B2 Method of making a thin layer electrochemical cell with self-formed separator
A method of forming an electrochemical cell is disclosed. The method comprises contacting a negative pole layer and a positive pole layer one with the other or with an optional layer interposed therebetween. The pole layers and the optional layer therebetween are selected to self-form an interfacial separator layer between the pole layers upon such contacting.
US07820319B2 Cell thermal runaway propagation resistant battery pack
A means for inhibiting the propagation of thermal runaway within a plurality of batteries is provided, wherein the means is comprised of a layer of intumescent material covering the interior surfaces of the battery pack.
US07820316B2 Membrane electrode assembly and fuel cell
A membrane electrode assembly includes a fluorine-based ion exchange resin membrane, a diffusion layer and a catalyst layer that supports a battery reaction. The catalyst layer is formed from Pt-carrying carbon nanotubes that is oriented on the fluorine-based ion exchange resin membrane, and non-Pt-carrying carbon nanotubes that is oriented on the diffusion layer.
US07820315B2 Fuel cell stack having coolant passage whose lower area has larger flow resistance
A fuel cell stack having stacked unit fuel cells, each having a pair of separators between which a membrane electrode assembly is provided, which includes an anode and a cathode. Each separator has protruding lines arranged vertically in a zigzag manner, which protrude in a direction going away from the membrane electrode assembly. A space between the anode and the protruding lines of the separator facing the anode is used as a fuel gas passage. A space between the cathode and the protruding lines of the separator facing the cathode is used as an oxidant gas passage. At least part of the separators are each arranged in close contact with another separator so that a coolant passage through which a coolant flows horizontally is formed between both separators. A lower area of the coolant passage has a larger flow resistance than that of an upper area thereof.
US07820314B2 Proton-conducting membrane and use thereof
The present invention relates to a novel proton-conducting polymer membrane based on polyazole block polymers which, owing to their outstanding chemical and thermal properties, can be used widely and are suitable in particular as polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) for producing membrane electrode units or so-called PEM fuel cells.
US07820313B2 Fuel source recognition and gating apparatus and associated method
A gating device (100) and associated method (900) for identifying a fuel container (101) used to refill a fuel cell (102) are presented. A fuel source identification device (103) identifies a fuel container (101) to verify that it is compatible with the fuel cell (102). Upon identification, a gating engine (105) opens a retractable barrier (106), thereby providing access to the fuel cell (102). The gating engine (105) moves the retractable barrier (106) from a closed position to an open position when a control circuit (803) indicates that the fuel container (101) is compatible with the fuel cell (102). The fuel container identification device may be an impedance detector (201), a connectivity detector (301), a barcode reader (401), a memory reader (501), a radio-frequency identification device (601), a label reader (701), or other similar device.
US07820310B2 Coated cutting tool insert
A method for making a coated cutting tool insert by depositing by CVD, onto a cemented carbide, titanium based or ceramic substrate a hard layer system, having a total thickness of from about 2 to about 50 μm, comprising at least one layer selected from titanium carbide, titanium nitride, titanium carbonitride, titanium carboxide and aluminum oxide, and an outer, from about 1 to about 15 μm thick, aluminum oxide layer or (Al2O3+ZrO2)*N multilayer, a penultimate outermost layer of TiOx, where x ranges from about 1 to about 2, and an outermost, from about 0.3 to about 2 μm thick, TiCxNyOz, layer, where x+y+z=1, x≧0, y≧0, and z≧0, followed by a post-treatment removing at least said outermost layer on the edge-line and on the rake face.
US07820309B2 Low-maintenance coatings, and methods for producing low-maintenance coatings
The invention provides a substrate bearing a low-maintenance coating. In some embodiments, the coating includes a low-maintenance film that includes both titanium oxide and tungsten oxide. The invention also provides methods and equipment for depositing such coatings.
US07820306B2 Compound and organic light emitting device using the same
Disclosed is an organic light emitting device. The organic light emitting device comprises a first electrode, organic material layer(s) comprising a light emitting layer, and a second electrode. The first electrode, the organic material layer(s), and the second electrode form layered structure and at least one layer of the organic material layer(s) include the compound of Formula 1 or the compound of Formula 1 into which a thermosetting or photo-crosslinkable functional group is introduced.
US07820303B2 Conductive material for connecting part and method for manufacturing the conductive material
There is provided a conductive material comprising a base material made up of a Cu strip, a Cu—Sn alloy covering layer formed over a surface of the base material, containing Cu in a range of 20 to 70 at.%, and having an average thickness in a range of 0.1 to 3.0 μm and an Sn covering layer formed over the Cu—Sn alloy covering layer having an average thickness in a range of 0.2 to 5.0 μm, disposed in that order, such that portions of the Cu—Sn alloy covering layer are exposed the surface of the Sn covering layer, and a ratio of an exposed area of the Cu—Sn alloy covering layer to the surface of the Sn covering layer is in a range of 3 to 75%.
US07820302B2 Planar metal element and profile element
An areal metal element is described having a surface which extends from a first outside edge to a second outside edge lying opposite the first out-side edge. The region of the metal element adjoining the first outside edge forms a first edge region and the region of the metal element adjoining the second outside edge forms a second side region. Both side regions are connected to one another by a central region lying therebetween, with at least one completely bordered aperture being formed at least in one of the side regions, with its border being formed in one part by this side region and in another part by the central region. The central region includes at least two sections which each consist of two outwardly disposed part sections and a central part section lying therebetween. The outwardly disposed part sections are folded over with respect to the central section to produce the aperture. The sections form part of the border of the aperture and the central region including the sections is made in one piece with the two side regions of the metal element.
US07820290B2 Water dispersible carbon fiber and water dispersible chopped carbon fiber
Water dispersible carbon fibers, (1) wherein the surface oxygen concentration (O/C) of each of the single fibers is 0.03 or more and less than 0.12 as measured by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and forming a first contact angle with water of 75° or less as measured by the Wilhelmy method; (2) wherein the O/C is 0.12 or more and less than 0.20 and forming a first contact angle with water of 65° or less as measured by the Wilhelmy method; or (3) wherein the O/C is 0.20 or more and 0.30 or less and forming a first contact angle with water of 55° or less as measured by the Wilhelmy method; and wherein a sizing agent containing a surfactant as a major component has adhered to the single fibers of each of the water dispersible carbon fibers.
US07820286B2 Coating composition and resin article having optical permeability
A coating composition capable of forming a curable coating layer having a sufficient dyeability on a resin substrate and improving adhesion after dyeing between the resin substrate and the curable coating layer, and a resin product having optical permeability applied with the curable coating layer by the composition are provided. The coating composition contains an ingredient (A): a hydrolyzate of an organosilane with the content of a bifunctional organosilane of from 50 to 100% by weight, an ingredient (B): colloid particles of metal oxide, and an ingredient (C): a solvent.
US07820285B1 Rocket motor insulation
Provided is a solid rocket motor (SRM) insulation, wherein carbon nano fibers (CNF) are blended into a polyurethane matrix so as to disperse the CNF in the polymer. The so blended material is then extruded, injection molded or sprayed on or into the desired shape. Such SRM insulation has reduced ablation over prior art insulations, resulting in reduction in weight of the insulation needed in such rockets, permitting increase of payload therein.
US07820284B2 Microbe-resistant medical device, microbe-resistant polymeric coating and methods for producing same
Microbe-resistant medical devices and methods of making these medical devices are provided. A base coat is applied to at least a portion of a surface of the device. That base coat includes one or more types of antimicrobial particles that are held in the base coat. A polymeric over coat is applied over at least a portion of the base coat. The over coat may be an organic soluble polymer, a water soluble polymer, a hydrogel or any other polymer capable of being coated onto a medical device. The polymer of the over coat is dissolvable in a solvent that does not dissolve the polymeric base coat during application of the over coat. The over coat remains free of the antimicrobial particles by not dissolving the base coat during the over coating process.
US07820280B2 Connecting fiber-reinforced material to an injection-moulded material
A process for the bonding of a fiber-reinforced material to an injection-molding material and an article produced by the process. The process improves the bond between a fiber-reinforced starting material and a material applied by injection. A further plastics material is inserted under pressure into a fiber-reinforced plastics material. This results in interlock bonding between the further plastics material and the fibers of the fiber-reinforced plastics material. This type of bonding is substantially more stable than known bonding.
US07820272B2 Image transfer sheet for electrophotography, and image recorded medium, as well as method for manufacturing the same
An image transfer sheet for electrophotography comprising a substrate and an image receiving layer provided on at least one side of the substrate, wherein the image receiving layer includes particles having a volume average particle diameter which is greater than a thickness of the image receiving layer, and both surfaces of the image transfer sheet have surface resistivities at 23° C. 55% r.h. which are within the range of 1.0×108 to 1.0×1013Ω. Also provided are an image recorded medium and a method for manufacturing the image recorded medium which use the image transfer sheet for electrophotography.
US07820267B2 Percussion drilled shaped through hole and method of forming
A percussion drilled shaped through hole formed between a first surface and a second surface of a component and a method of forming the through hole. The through hole is defined by a primary crater, a secondary crater, and a metering hole. The primary crater is formed using laser percussion drilling in the first surface of the component. The secondary crater is formed using laser percussion drilling within the primary crater and substantially offset from a centerline of the primary crater. The metering hole is formed using laser percussion drilling within the secondary crater and extending through the component to the second surface. The primary crater, the secondary crater, and the metering hole define a Coand{hacek over (a)} ramp and provide for the flow of fluid through the percussion drilled shaped through hole according to the Coand{hacek over (a)} effect.
US07820265B2 Electrically heatable pressure-sensitive adhesive compound
Electrically heatable pressure-sensitive adhesive compound, comprising at least one adhesive constituent and at least one electrically conductive filler.
US07820264B2 Idle registered label roll
A linerless label roll includes a web wound along a running axis, and having a series of index marks spaced longitudinally apart. A series of adhesive patches runs along the web, with differently sized adhesive-free zones therebetween in register with the index marks.
US07820261B2 Polyvinyl alcohol resin composition and multilayer packages
The present invention provides a resin composition having an oxygen scavenging function. The resin composition comprises 70 to 99.9 wt % of a polyvinyl alcohol resin (A) and 0.1 to 30 wt % of a thermoplastic resin (B) other than the polyvinyl alcohol resin (A), wherein the thermoplastic resin (B) has a carbon-carbon double bond and a functional group including a hetero atom, and an oxygen absorption rate of the resin composition is 0.001 ml/m2·day or more.
US07820257B2 Preforms for preparing lightweight stretch blow molded PET copolymer containers and methods for making and using same
An injection molded preform for making a stretch blow molded container having an overall stretch ratio of from about 12 to about 16, wherein the overall stretch ratio is a product of a hoop stretch ratio and an axial stretch ratio, wherein the hoop stretch ratio is from about 5.6 to about 6.5, wherein the axial stretch ratio is from about 2.4 to about 2.7, and wherein the preform comprises a CG PET Copolymer having a free blow volume of from about 650 to about 800 ml measured at 100° C. and 90 psi using a 25 gram weight preform designed for a 500 ml container with a maximum diameter of 65 mm and a height of 200 mm from below the container finish and having a hoop stretch ratio of 5.5 and an axial stretch ratio of 2.6. This invention also relates to a method of making such preforms and stretch blow molded containers and methods of making the same.
US07820253B2 Poly(aryletherimides) for negative birefringent films for LCDs
A negative birefringence film prepared from a poly(aryletherimide) which is the reaction product of a dianhydride and a diamine, where the dianhydride is 4,4′-[4,4′-(p-phenyleneoxy)isopropylidene]bis(phthalic anhydride) (BisADA), bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyl)ether dianhydride (ODPA), 4,4′-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenoxy)biphenyl dianhydride (BPEDA), 1,4-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyloxy)phenyl dianhydride (BPQDA), 3,3′,4,4′-tetracarboxylicbiphenyl dianhydride (BPDA), or 2,2-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyl)-1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane dianhydride (6FDA), alone or a mixture with one or more of: 3,3′,4,4′-tetracarboxylicbiphenyl dianhydride (BPDA), 2,2-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyl)-1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane dianhydride (6FDA); and where the diamine is 1,4-bis(2-trifluoromethyl-4-aminophenoxy)-2,5-di(t-butyl)benzene (BTBDA), 3,3′-dimethyl-4,4′-diamino biphenyl (OTOL), or mixtures thereof and wherein when a mixture of dianhydrides is present, they are present in a molar amount of between 99 to 1 (99:1) and 1 to 99 (1:99), and the film has a negative birefringence greater than 0.01, at a thickness of less than 15 μm, when the poly(aryletherimide) is solution cast or coated onto a substrate.
US07820251B2 Liquid crystal compound and liquid crystal display utilizing the same
The disclosed is a liquid crystal compound and method for manufacturing the same. The liquid crystal compound can be used alone or mixed with commercially available liquid crystal compounds. Because low rotational viscosity of the liquid crystal compound of the invention, it can be used as positive or negative dielectric anisotropic liquid crystal composition.
US07820244B2 Method of forming a layer and method of removing reaction by-products
In a method of forming a layer, a titanium layer and a titanium nitride layer may be successively formed on a first wafer. By-products adhered to the inside of a chamber during the formation of the titanium nitride layer may be removed from the chamber. Processes of forming the titanium layer, forming the titanium nitride layer, and removing the by-products may be repeated relative to a second wafer.
US07820243B2 Resist coating method and resist coating apparatus
A resist coating method supplies a resist solution to substantially the center of a target substrate to be processed while rotating the target substrate at a first rotational speed, then decelerates the rotation of the substrate to a second rotational speed lower than the first rotational speed, or until rotational halt, makes the deceleration smaller in the deceleration step as the rotational speed becomes closer to the second rotational speed or the rotational halt, and accelerates the rotation of the substrate to a third rotational speed higher than the second rotational speed to spin off a residue of the resist solution.
US07820240B2 Production process of film and column for cation chromatography
One object of the present invention is to produce a weakly acidic cation exchanger under mild conditions. Another object of the present invention is to produce a more firm weakly acidic cation exchange film. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a weakly acidic cation exchanger capable of realizing high-level separation of monovalent cation and simultaneously analyzing monovalent cation and divalent cation and also provide a chromatography column using the ion exchanger. In the production method of a weakly acidic cation exchanger of the invention, a solvent incapable of dissolving a polymer having a double bond within the molecule is used and the weakly acidic cation exchanger is produced by polymerization at temperature of 100? ° C. or less. When an α,β-unsaturated dibasic acid derivative is dissolved in the solvent, the α,β-unsaturated dibasic acid derivative reacts with the polymer and a more firm film can be formed. Furthermore, when the weakly acidic cation exchanger obtained by this process is packed in a column, monovalent cation can be separated in high level.
US07820239B2 Method of manufacturing iron member
An iron member having a coating film on at least part of its surface is manufactured by a step of projecting zinc particles to the surface of a base material made of an iron material to form a base film, and a step of forming a coating film of resin coating material on at least a part of the base film.
US07820238B2 Cold sprayed metal matrix composites
A method of manufacturing homogenous metal matrix composite (MMC) powders and using the powders as the feedstock with cold spray deposition is described to produce composite coatings and freestanding bulk forms. Measured quantities of metal and ceramic powders having predetermined particle sizes are blended to produce homogeneous MMC powders. Spray parameters and procedures are controlled to produce dense, strong and well-bonded MMC coatings on any substrate.
US07820233B2 Method for fabricating a flip chip substrate structure
The present invention relates to a method to fabricate a flip chip substrate structure, which comprises: providing a carrier; forming a patterned resist layer on the surface of the carrier; forming sequentially a first metal layer, an etching-stop layer, and a second metal layer; removing the resist layer, forming a patterned first solder mask, and then forming at least one first circuit build up structure thereon; forming additionally a patterned second solder mask on the circuit build up structure; respectively removing the carrier, the first metal layer, and the etching-stop layer; and forming solder bumps on both sides of the circuit build up structure. The method increases integration and achieves the purpose of miniaturization. The method solves the problem of circuit layer multiplicity and process complexity.
US07820231B2 Manufacturing apparatus
The present invention provides an evaporation apparatus, which is one type of film formation apparatus and provides superior uniformity in EL layer film thickness, superior throughput, and improved utilization efficiency of EL materials and an evaporation method. The present invention is characterized in that an evaporation source holder, in which a container that encloses an evaporation material is disposed, is moved at a certain pitch with respect to a substrate during evaporation. Further, a film thickness monitor is integrated with the evaporation source holder for the movement. Furthermore, film thickness can be made uniform by adjusting the moving speed of the evaporation source holder in accordance with values measured by the film thickness monitor.
US07820229B2 Method of coating a stent
Coatings for stents that include a polymer and a drug are provided. A method of forming the coatings is also provided.
US07820226B2 Production of flax protein isolate
Flax and linola oil seed protein isolated are provided. Such isolates are made by extracting flax and linola oil seed protein from the oil seed meal, concentrating the aqueous protein solution, diluting the concentrated protein solution to form protein micelles, collecting mass. Further flax protein isolate may be recovered from the supernatant from the protein micellar formation. The protein isolated have a protein content of at least about 90 wt % (N ×6.25), preferably at least about 100 wt %, on a dry weight basis.
US07820213B2 Chewing gum base composition
The invention provide a gum base composition which has an excellent chewing texture and is disintegratable and biodegradable comprising biodegradable ingredients, including a lactic acid polymer comprising a poly-L-lactic acid polymer and/or other lactic acid polymers having a glass transition temperature higher than 50° C. in an amount of from 5% by weight to 60% by weight, and an emulsifying plasticizer in an amount of from 1% by weight to 20% by weight. The weight average molecular weight of the lactic acid polymer to be used is preferably 50,000 to 200,000.
US07820211B2 Cosmetic material containing sweet pea extract
A cosmetic material, cell growth promoting agent, elastase activity inhibiting agent and anti-aging agent containing sweet pea extract, formulated with the aim of preventing or slowing aging.
US07820208B2 Method of assaying satiety enhancing tastants
Compositions for enhancing satiety and weight loss in an individual, assays for assessing a tastant for enhancing satiety and weight loss, and methods of using the composition to suppress appetite and enhance weight loss are provided.
US07820207B2 Stabilized anthocyanin compositions
The invention describes stabile anthocyanin compositions, methods to prepare such compositions and also methods of use of such compositions to treat various afflictions. The present invention describes unique compositions of an anthocyanin and a stabilizing compound such that the combination of the two components provides that the anthocyanin does not readily undergo degradation, such as oxidation, pH instability, etc.
US07820206B2 Modulation of inflammation by hops fractions and derivatives
A natural formulation of compounds that would to modulate inflammation is disclosed. The formulation would also inhibit expression of COX-2, inhibit synthesis of prostaglandins selectively in target cells, and inhibit inflammatory response selectively in target cells. The compositions containing at least one fraction isolated or derived from hops.
US07820200B2 Pharmaceutical composition for the sustained release of hydralazine and use thereof as a support for cancer treatment
The invention relates to a substained release form of hydralazine for use in cancer therapy. The substained release form of hydralazine can be used to obtain a constant concentration of the active principle in the blood, thereby enabling the demethylating effect of the hydralazine without producing the hypotensive action thereof, such that the inventive composition can be used in cancer therapy.
US07820197B2 Percutaneous preparations
A bisphosphonic acid derivative-containing percutaneous preparation of an excellent percutaneous permeability, comprising a bisphosphonic acid derivative such as incadronic acid, minodronic acid, etc., or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, a solubilizing agent for the derivative or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and an amphiphilic solubilizing auxiliary agent, which may optionally contain a suspension-type base such as a polyvalent alcohol, a higher fatty acid ester, a liquid hydrocarbon or a vegetable oil, etc. This preparation has an excellent percutaneous permeability, reduces burdens on the patient, does not deteriorate the patient's compliance even in the administration over a prolonged period of time and can achieve the therapeutic effects in a short period of time.
US07820194B2 Combinations of viscoelastics for use during surgery
An improved viscoelastic composition useful in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures and especially cataract procedures is disclosed. The embodiments of the composition comprise combinations of sodium hyaluronate and chondroitin sulfate and exhibit an improved rheological profile.
US07820191B2 Calcium phosphate cements prepared from silicate solutions
Methods are provide for producing flowable compositions, e.g. pastes, that set into calcium phosphate products. In the subject methods, dry reactants that include a calcium source and a phosphate source are combined with a solution of a soluble silicate, e.g. sodium silicate, and the combined liquids and solids are mixed to produce the flowable composition. Also provided are the compositions themselves as well as kits for preparing the same. The subject methods and compositions produced thereby find use in a variety of applications, including the repair of hard tissue defects, e.g. bone defects.
US07820189B2 Pesticide compositions
This invention is related to the field of compositions useful in the control of pests that eat cellulose, such as, termites, where said composition is compacted and where said composition comprises alpha-cellulose, water, and a pesticide.
US07820187B2 Method and mixture for protecting animals against pests
A mixture for application on an animal to provide barrier protection against insects, parasites, arachnids and/or other arthropods, and ectoparasites, and in general viruses, bacteria and/or other microorganisms is provided. The mixture includes a carrier or combination of carriers, especially mineral oil, that at least after application has an absolute or resultant viscosity of from 100 to 1200, and especially greater than 120, and especially 300 to 650 S.U.S. The mixture also includes an insecticide, ectoparasitide, insect or other arthropod growth regulator (IGR), viricide, bacteriacide and/or bacteriostatic compound that is blended with the carrier and that acts non-systemically. The mixture contains essentially no surfactant, emulsifier, or emulsifying agent, either in solution or suspension.
US07820185B2 Stable compositions containing OMVs
An OMV preparation comprises OMVs having a sufficiently positive or negative surface charge to substantially prevent aggregation.
US07820184B2 Methods and compositions for detection of microorganisms and cells and treatment of diseases and disorders
Methods for detecting a microorganism or cell in a subject and methods for detecting, imaging or diagnosing a site, disease, disorder or condition in a subject using microorganisms or cells and methods that microorganisms or cells for treating a disease, disorder or condition are provided. Sites, diseases and disorders include sites of cell proliferation, proliferative conditions, neoplasms, tumors, neoplastic disease, wounds and inflammation. Also provided are microorganisms and cells for use in the methods and compositions, combinations and kits, including diagnostic and pharmaceutical compositions, containing a microorganism or cell.
US07820183B2 Botulinum toxin in treatment of clubfoot relapse
Botulinum toxin, or other neuromuscular inhibitors, injected into the lower leg muscle of infants, less than a year old, with idiopathic clubfoot is shown to be an effective therapy in correcting this physical deformity. Following a protocol of manipulations, castings, and injections, clubfoot is effectively treated, and surgical treatment procedures can be avoided.
US07820181B2 Recovery of recombinant human parainfluenza virus type 2 (HPIV2) from cDNA and use of recombinant HPIV2 in immunogenic compositions and as vectors to elicit immune responses against PIV and other human pathogens
Recombinant human parainfluenza virus type 2 (HPIV2) viruses and related immunogenic compositions and methods are provided. The recombinant HPIV2 viruses, including HPIV2 chimeric and chimeric vector viruses, provided according to the invention are infectious and attenuated in permissive mammalian subjects, including humans, and are useful in immunogenic compositions for eliciting an immune responses against one or more PIVs, against one or more non-PIV pathogens, or against a PIV and a non-PIV pathogen. Also provided are isolated polynucleotide molecules and vectors incorporating a recombinant HPIV2 genome or antigenome.
US07820179B2 Pegylated PTH as PTH receptor modulators and uses thereof
Pharmaceutical compositions and methods are provided for the treatment and prevention of bone loss diseases including osteoporosis in a mammal.
US07820178B2 VEGF isoforms and their use as anti-angiogenic, anti-vasodilatory, anti-permeability and anti-proliferative agents
An isolated VEGF polypeptide having anti-angiogenic activity, said polypeptide including the amino acid sequence of SEQ. ID NO. 1, or variants thereof.
US07820174B2 T cell receptors and related materials and methods of use
The invention provides an isolated or purified T cell receptor (TCR) having antigenic specificity for a cancer antigen, e.g., a renal cell carcinoma antigen, wherein the TCR recognizes the cancer antigen in a major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-independent manner. Also provided are related polypeptides, proteins, nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, isolated host cells, populations of cells, antibodies, or antigen binding portions thereof, and pharmaceutical compositions. The invention further provides a method of detecting the presence of cancer in a host and a method of treating or preventing cancer in a host using the inventive TCRs or related materials.
US07820167B2 IL1-β: a new target for myeloma therapy
Diagnostic methods for the detection of multiple myeloma (MM) and the identification of high-risk patients with multiple myeloma-related plasma proliferative disorders, such as MGUS or SMM, likely to progress to active MM are described. The diagnosis is based on the determination of concentrations of bioactive IL-1β produced by the bone marrow plasma cells of these patients. Also described are therapeutic methods for the treatment of MM and for the chemoprevention of the progression from disorders such as MGUS and SMM to active MM, involving the administration of inhibitors of IL-1β.
US07820163B2 Anti-hepcidin antibodies and uses thereof
Monoclonal antibodies are provided that selectively bind human hepcidin-25 and are characterized as having high affinity for human hepcidin-25 and strong human mature hepcidin neutralizing properties. The antibodies of the invention are useful therapeutically for increasing serum iron levels, reticulocyte count, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and/or hematocrit in a human and for the treatment and diagnosis of mature hepcidin-promoted disorders such as anemia, in a human subject.
US07820160B2 Midkine inhibitory compositions for the treatment of angiostenosis
The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for the prevention or treatment of angiostenosis, comprising a compound inhibiting the function of midkine (MK) in blood vessel tissues as an effective ingredient. The present invention is useful for the prevention or treatment of angiostenosis attributed to arteriosclerosis or restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). As compounds inhibiting the function of MK, antisense oligonucleotides that bind to a segment of a single-stranded mRNA transcribed from the MK gene to inhibit the synthesis of MK protein in cells, antibodies against the MK protein, and such can be used.
US07820158B2 Ligand-coupled initiator polymers and methods of use
Initiator polymers having an initiator group and a ligand group are provided. The initiator polymers are capable of specifically binding to a receptor on a surface. Using a macromer system, the initiator polymers are useful for the formation of a polymeric matrix on the surface of a material. In particular, initiator polymers are provided that have specificity to pancreatic β cells and can be used to encapsulate cells for transplantation and the treatment of diabetes.
US07820157B2 Transgene delivering retrovirus targeting collagen exposed at site of tissue injury
A viral or non-viral vector particle having a modified viral surface protein wherein the viral surface protein is modified to include a targeting polypeptide including a binding region which binds to an extracellular matrix component. Such vector particles are useful in delivering genes encoding therapeutic agents to cells located at the site of an exposed extracellular matrix component.
US07820153B2 Semiochemical
cis-Jasmone has been discovered to be useful as a semiochemical that changes the behavior of insects and/or the physiology of plants. It has direct signalling roles with plant-feeding aphids, in attraction of aphid predators and parasitoids, and may act as an airborne signal inducing production of volatile plant semiochemicals, including the monoterpene (E)-β-ocimene, that stimulate foraging by parasitoids. It is an extremely benign compound having, to human beings, a pleasant aroma and gives a long-lasting effect after removal of the stimulus.
US07820152B2 Shave gel composition containing glyceryl acrylate/acrylic acid copolymer
Disclosed is a shaving composition in the form of a post-foaming gel that contains a glyceryl acrylate/acrylic acid copolymer. In particular the shaving composition comprises, in percent by weight, about 60% to about 93%, preferably about 70% to about 85%, water, about 2% to about 25%, preferably about 5% to about 20%, water dispersible (or soluble) surface active agent, about 1% to about 6%, preferably about 2% to about 5%, volatile post-foaming agent, and about 0.0005% to about 1%, preferably about 0.001% to about 0.1%, glyceryl acrylate/acrylic acid copolymer.
US07820151B2 Composition for coating keratin fibers, comprising at least one tacky wax and fibers
Disclosed herein is a composition for coating keratin fibers, comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium, at least one tacky wax and fibers, wherein the at least one tacky wax may have a tack of greater than or equal to 0.7 N.s and a hardness of less than or equal to 3.5 MPa. Also disclosed herein are methods of using this composition and an assembly comprising this composition.
US07820149B2 Modified sorbitan siloxane compositions and use thereof
The present disclosure generally relates to personal care compositions and wipes. More particularly, the disclosure relates to compositions and wipes for imparting a perceivable aesthetic feel to the skin of a user. To achieve the perceivable aesthetic feel, a modified sorbitan siloxane is incorporated into the compositions and wipes.
US07820146B2 Care and/or make-up cosmetic composition structured with silicone polymers and organogelling agents, in rigid form
The invention relates to a care and/or make-up cosmetic composition comprising a liquid fatty phase comprising at least one silicone oil, structured with a gelling system comprising1) at least one polymer having a weight-average molecular mass ranging from 500 to 500 000, containing at least one moiety comprising: at least one polyorganosiloxane group consisting of 1 to 1 000 organosiloxane units in the chain of the moiety or in the form of a graft, and at least two groups capable of establishing hydrogen interactions, the polymer being solid at room temperature and soluble in the liquid fatty phase at a temperature of 25 to 250° C., and 2) at least one non-polymeric organogelling agent.
US07820144B2 Receptor selective cannabimimetic aminoalkylindoles
Disclosed are cannabimimetic aminoalkylindole compounds and methods for their manufacture. The disclosed compounds are surprisingly potent and selective cannabinoids. The disclosed compounds may include radioactive atoms. Also disclosed are methods of using the disclosed compounds, including use of the disclosed compounds to stimulate a cannabinoid receptor, to provide a physiological effect in an animal or individual, to treat a condition in an animal or individual and for use in radioimaging.
US07820142B2 Immunogenic glycopeptides, screening, preparation and uses
The invention relates to immunogenic glycopeptides derived from pathogenic microorganisms, which can be used for immunization and diagnosing infections dye to such pathogenic microorganisms and also to method for the selection and preparation thereof.
US07820140B2 Thermo-neutral reforming of petroleum-based liquid hydrocarbons
A method for the thermo-neutral reforming of liquid hydrocarbon fuels which employs a Ni—Ce2O—Pt—Rh catalyst having dual functionalities to achieve both combustion and steam reforming.
US07820134B2 Process and plant for producing sulfuric acid
There are described a process and a plant for producing sulfuric acid by catalytic oxidation of SO2 to SO3 and subsequent absorption of SO3 in sulfuric acid, wherein the SO3 is introduced into a first absorption stage and absorbed there in concentrated sulfuric acid, wherein the sulfuric acid having a higher concentration due to the absorption is passed through a heat exchanger and cooled, and wherein the non-absorbed SO3 is supplied to a second absorption stage for the further absorption in sulfuric acid. Before the first absorption stage a partial stream of SO3 is branched off and supplied directly to the second absorption stage.
US07820133B2 Laser-based method for growing array of carbon nanotubes
A method for growing an array of carbon nanotubes includes the steps of: (a) providing a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; (b) forming a catalyst film on the first surface of the substrate; (c) flowing a mixture of a carrier gas and a carbon source gas over the catalyst film; (d) providing a semiconductor laser system to generate a focused laser beam; and (e) irradiating the focused laser beam on the substrate to grow an array of carbon nanotubes on the substrate.
US07820131B2 Diamond uses/applications based on single-crystal CVD diamond produced at rapid growth rate
The present invention is directed to new uses and applications for colorless, single-crystal diamonds produced at a rapid growth rate. The present invention is also directed to methods for producing single crystal diamonds of varying color at a rapid growth rate and new uses and applications for such single-crystal, colored diamonds.
US07820130B2 Functionalization of nanodiamond powder through fluorination and subsequent derivatization reactions
The present invention is directed to functionalized nanoscale diamond powders, methods for making such powders, applications for using such powders, and articles of manufacture comprising such powders. Methods for making such functionalized nanodiamond powders generally comprise a fluorination of nanodiamond powder. In some embodiments, such methods comprise reacting fluorinated nanodiamond powder with a subsequent derivatization agent, such as a strong nucleophile.
US07820124B1 Monodisperse nanoparticles and method of making
A material comprising a plurality of nanoparticles. Each of the plurality of nanoparticles includes at least one of a metal phosphate, a metal silicate, a metal oxide, a metal borate, a metal aluminate, and combinations thereof. The plurality of nanoparticles is substantially monodisperse. Also disclosed is a method of making a plurality of substantially monodisperse nanoparticles. The method includes providing a slurry of at least one metal precursor, maintaining the pH of the slurry at a predetermined value, mechanically milling the slurry, drying the slurry to form a powder; and calcining the powder at a predetermined temperature to form the plurality of nanoparticles.
US07820123B2 Device for the purification of exhaust gas
As a device for the purification of exhaust gas, a three-way catalyst A purifying hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide in the vicinity of theoretical air-fuel ratio is disposed at an upstream side of the exhaust gas and an adsorption catalyst B provided with zeolite effective for the adsorption of hydrocarbon is disposed at a downstream side of the exhaust gas.
US07820121B2 Destruction of organics in Bayer process streams
A Bayer process is disclosed. The Bayer process includes a step of treating any one or more of: (a) Bayer liquor or liquors produced in the process, (b) precipitated aluminium trihydrate particles produced in the process, and (c) other solids added to or produced in the process, with ultrasonic energy and destroying organics in the liquor or liquors, on the precipitated aluminium trihydrate particles, and on the other solids.
US07820119B2 System and method of making ferric chloride with reduced amounts of hydrochloric acid for water treatment
The present invention involves a system and method of making ferric chloride with reduced amounts of hydrochloric acid for water treatment. The method comprises preparing a reactant batch comprising ferric oxide and hydrochloric acid at a predetermined molar ratio. The method further includes mixing the reactant batch with an impeller rotating between about 60 and 150 revolutions per minute. The method further includes maintaining the reactant batch at a temperature between about 70° Fahrenheit and 180° Fahrenheit. The method forms a reaction product including ferric chloride and a reduced amount of hydrochloric acid.
US07820118B2 Substrate processing apparatus having covered thermocouple for enhanced temperature control
To provide a substrate treatment apparatus capable of performing temperature control in a reaction tube with accuracy.A substrate treatment apparatus 100 includes: a reaction tube 42 for treating a substrate 54; a heater 46 for heating the substrate 54 in the reaction tube 42; a cooling air channel 72 for circulating cooling air 70 outside the reaction tube 42; and a thermocouple 82 for detecting temperature around the reaction tube 42. The thermocouple 82 is disposed in the cooling air channel 72 for circulating cooling air 70 in a state where the thermocouple 82 is covered with a protection tube 86, and a cover 88 for intercepting flow toward the protection tube 86 of the cooling air 70 is disposed outside the protection tube 86.
US07820113B2 Device for simultaneously collecting filtered water and filter paper
The present invention relates to filtering a collected sample for water analysis, and a device where filtered water is collected so that filtered water can be contained in a sample container and where the collecting rate of the sample can be controlled. The collecting device comprises at least one filter funnel part, an upper plate on which the funnel part placed, mounting device comprising a supporting rod wherein one side of the supporting rod is combined with the edge of the upper plate and a waste box fixing the supporting rod, several base container parts wherein the sample container is inserted and a outlet port is formed, and a vacuum pump connected to the vacuum connecting port by a pump tube. Accordingly, the step of transferring filtered water into the sample container can be omitted, and the collection time can be reduced by controlling the collecting rate of the sample.
US07820110B2 Drop catcher
The invention relates to a device for catching drops from a pipette mechanically attached to a pipetting device in the field of nucleic acid purification and amplification. Furthermore, a method for pipetting a liquid with a decreased potentiality of contamination of an analytical instrument as well as liquids or/and samples placed on said analytical instrument is provided. Moreover, an analytical instrument at least comprising a pipetting device, and a device for catching drops from a pipette mechanically attached to said pipetting device wherein the movement of the device for catching drops is coupled to the movement of said pipetting device is illustrated.
US07820105B2 Analyte meter protectors and methods
Analyte meter protectors, meters that include the same, and methods.
US07820103B2 Chip based diagnostic device
A diagnostic device comprising a sample inlet and a processing chamber having a window portion and a flat carrier having front surface, a back surface and one or more side surfaces, said front surface facing said processing chamber, said front surface having an active surface containing a diagnostic reagent immobilized to said active front surface and an extended front surface, wherein said window portion further contains a rim portion facing said extended front surface sealing said chamber versus said carrier through said extended front surface.
US07820098B2 High Cr ferritic heat resistance steel
In the thermal power system, the electricity production efficiency may be improved by providing turbine members having the improved high temperature characteristic over the corresponding prior art turbine members. Turbine members may be provided by using high resistant steels composed of any one or ones selected from the group consisting of the components, including 0.08 to 0.13% of carbon (C), 8.5 to 9.8% of chromium (Cr), 0 to 1.5% of molybdenum (Mo), 0.10 to 0.25% of vanadium (V), 0.03 to 0.08% of niobium (Nb), 0.2 to 5.0% of tungsten (W), 1.5 to 6.0% of cobalt (Co), 0.002 to 0.015% of boron (B), 0.015 to 0.025% of nitrogen (N), and optionally, 0.01 to 3.0% of rhenium (Re), 0.1 to 0.50% of silicon (Si), 0.1 to 1.0% of manganese (Mo), 0.05 to 0.8% of nickel (Ni) and 0.1 to 1.3% of cupper. The long-time creep strength may be improved by using those high resistant steels for turbine rotors, turbine members and the like, which enable the steam temperature to be higher, thereby improving the electricity production efficiency in the thermal power system. The accelerated creep inhibitor parameter is provided for controlling the reduction in the creep strength so that the high creep strength can be maintained for the extended period of time.
US07820096B2 Turgor shaping. control of shape and rigidity through the use of pressure transmitting channel patterns (hydraulic channel arrays)
Layers of materials are laminated together preserving potential spaces that can transmit pressure generated by the use of gases or fluids. Alternatively, pre-manufactured pressure conduits of suitable dimensions and geometries are integrated between the layers. Transmission of pressure to such conduits results in expansion of a compacted device to a predetermined shape. Maintenance and/or variation of said pressure results in preservation of said shape, fine static control of surface geometries and even remote control of precise movements. Osmotic Pressure is not required to achieve Turgor type control.
US07820090B2 Toneable conduit and method of preparing same
The present invention is a toneable conduit that can transmit a signal and that can therefore be readily detected by toning equipment. In addition, the conduit of the invention can be readily coupled with other conduit to provide extended lengths of conduit. The toneable conduit includes an elongate polymeric tube having a wall with an interior surface, an exterior surface, and a predetermined wall thickness. A channel preferably extends longitudinally within the wall of the elongate polymeric tube and a stabilizing rib extends longitudinally along the interior surface of the wall of the elongate polymeric tube and is located radially inward from the channel. A continuous wire is coincident with the channel in the elongate polymeric tube and is preferably coated with a coating composition that prevents the wire from adhering to the polymer melt used to form the elongate polymeric tube. The present invention further includes methods of making the toneable conduit and methods of coupling a first toneable conduit with a second toneable conduit.
US07820089B2 Method for manufacturing three dimensional electrode elements for micro-batteries
A method for forming an array of three dimensional electrode elements for micro-batteries, including forming a plurality of first parallel channels in a substrate, filling the plurality of first channels with a sacrificial filler material, forming at least one plurality of second parallel channels, each of the pluralities of channels being oriented in a different direction, and removing the sacrificial filler material to leave a grid array of electrode elements. The method may further include a preliminary step of depositing a sacrificial coating onto the surface of the substrate and a final step of removing the sacrificial coating and any debris resulting from the channel forming steps deposited thereon.
US07820088B2 Process for making angstrom scale and high aspect functional platelets
A process for making functional or decorative flakes or platelets economically and at high production rates comprises applying a multi-layer sandwich of vapor deposited metal and release coats in alternating layers to a rotating chilled drum or suitable carrier medium contained in a vapor deposition chamber. The alternating metallized layers are applied by vapor deposition and the intervening release layers are preferably solvent soluble thermoplastic polymeric materials applied by vapor deposition sources contained in the vapor deposition chamber. The multi-layer sandwich built up in the vacuum chamber is removed from the drum or carrier and treated with a suitable organic solvent to dissolve the release coating from the metal in a stripping process that leaves the metal flakes essentially release coat free. The solvent and dissolved release material are then removed by centrifuging to produce a cake of concentrated flakes which can be air milled and let down in a preferred vehicle and further sized and homogenized for final use in inks, paints or coatings. In one embodiment the finished flakes comprise single-layer thin metal or metal alloy flakes or flakes of inorganic materials, and in another embodiment flakes are coated on both sides with protective polymeric coatings that were applied from suitable vacuum deposition sources or the like contained in the vapor deposition chamber.
US07820077B2 Solutions of organic semiconductors
The invention relates to solutions of at least one organic semiconductor containing at least one high-molecular constituent, in a solvent mixture of at least three different organic solvents A, B and C. The invention is characterized in that the solvents A and B are good solvents for the organic semiconductor, the solvent C is a bad solvent for the organic semiconductor, and Sdp.(A)
US07820071B2 Light modulating material and light modulating method
A light modulating material comprising at least one kind of dichroic dye having a substituent represented by the following Formula (1) and at least one kind of host liquid crystal between a pair of electrodes, and changing the transmittance of incident light. In the formula (1), Het is oxygen atom or sulfur atom; B1 and B2 each independently represent an arylene group, a heteroarylene group or a bivalent cyclic aliphatic hydrocarbon group; Q1 represents a bivalent linking group; C1 represents an alkyl group, a cycloalkyl group, an alkoxy group, an alkoxycarbonyl group, an acyl group, or an acyloxy group; j represents 0 or 1; p, q and r each independently represent an integer from 0 to 5; n represents an integer from 1 to 3; (p+r)×n is an integer from 3 to 10. -(Het)j-{(B1)p-(Q1)q-(B2)r}n—C1  Formula (1):
US07820070B2 Photosensitive monomer, liquid crystal material having the same, liquid crystal panel and method for manufacturing thereof by incorporating the same, and electro-optical device and method for manufacturing thereof by incorporating the same
A photosensitive monomer of formula. “L1”, “L2”, “L3”, “L4”, “L5”, “L6” are selected from hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, cyano, alkyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, and alkylcarbonyloxy having 1 to 7 carbon atoms, in which one or more hydrogen atoms may be substituted by fluorine or chlorine.“R1”, “R2”, “R3” and “R4” are selected from hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, cyano, thiocyanato, pentafluoro sulfanyl, nitrite, straight-chained alkyl/branched alkyl, and a “Z-Sp-P” group. At least one of “R1”, “R2”, “R3” and “R4” is “Z-Sp-P” group. “Z” is selected from oxygen, sulfur, methyoxy, carbonyl, caroboxyl, carbamoyl, methylthio, ethenylcarbonyl, carbonylethenyl, and a single bond. “Sp” is selected from straight-chained alkyl or branched alkyl and a single bond. “P” comprises a polymerizable group.
US07820069B2 Method and apparatus for controlling contamination from pipe coatings
A combination of a styrene reduction agent and a catalyst that effectively and economically reduces styrene emissions in Cured-In-Place Pipe, closed molding processes. The reduction agent generally comprises a calibrated mixture of salts including sodium chloride plus three persulfate salts: ammonium (APS), potassium (KPS), and sodium (NPS). These ingredients are combined in powder form and are compressed into soluble capsules containing calibrated amounts of the mixture. The capsule(s) may be prescribed through the use of software. The catalyst is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). A calibrated amount of the styrene reduction agent capsule(s) are added to the cure water prior to starting the boiler equipment for the Cured-In-Place Pipe process, and this is followed by a calibrated amount of the H2O2 catalyst in order to reduce the residual monomer content in either process or waste streams.
US07820067B2 Halide anions for metal removal rate control
The inventive chemical-mechanical polishing system comprises a polishing component, a liquid carrier, an oxidizing agent, and a halogen anion. The inventive method comprises chemically-mechanically polishing a substrate with the polishing system.
US07820064B2 Spinodally patterned nanostructures
Devices based on spinodally decomposed periodic structures and their fabrication techniques.
US07820063B2 Micromirror device and a method of making the same
A reflective and deformable micromirror device comprises a reflective micromirror plate attached to a deformable hinge that is formed on and held by a hinge post on a substrate. The substrate has an addressing electrode formed thereon. A selected dielectric material is disposed between the deformable hinge and the addressing electrode.
US07820059B2 System, method, and apparatus for end-to-end control of water quality
A method of providing end-to-end water quality control from a water system operator to a point of delivery proximate a consumer, which may be at the point of entry, and/or between the point of entry and point of use, and/or at the point of use. The method includes treating the water and delivering the water to the consumer at the point of delivery, filtering/purifying the water at the point of delivery, monitoring water quality at the point of delivery, and reporting water quality at the point of delivery to the water system operator over a network.
US07820057B2 Method for removing at least one constituent from a solution
The invention relates to a method for removing at least one constituent from a solution, comprising:—forming a liquid mixture by bringing together said solution (1) and a particulate seed material (6) under conditions or in the presence of one or more substances which cause the constituent to be removed to crystallize out on the surface of the seed material; and—separating the seed material having the constituent to be removed crystallized out thereon from the liquid mixture by passing the liquid mixture through a filter (3), wherein the pore size of the filter (3) is greater than or equal to the particle size of the seed material (6). The invention also relates to a method for preparing a particulate material wherein use is made of the method according to the present invention. The invention also relates to the particulate material obtainable by this method. The invention further relates to an apparatus that can be used in the process of the present invention.
US07820054B2 Method for dewatering slurry from construction sites
A method of removing solids from the slurry at a construction site located on or near a stream in order to improve the quality of water discharged into the stream by forming treatment zones for receiving slurry, said zones comprising walls of filter bags and floors of filter skirts, said bags and skirts comprising geotextile material and the bags being filled with a shredded rubber and woodchip combination.
US07820052B2 Method of arsenic removal from water
A method for low-cost arsenic removal from drinking water using chemically prepared bottom ash pre-treated with ferrous sulfate and then sodium hydroxide. Deposits on the surface of particles of bottom ash form of activated iron adsorbent with a high affinity for arsenic. In laboratory tests, a miniscule 5 grams of pre-treated bottom ash was sufficient to remove the arsenic from 2 liters of 2400 ppb (parts per billion) arsenic-laden water to a level below 50 ppb (the present United States Environmental Protection Agency limit). By increasing the amount of pre-treated bottom ash, even lower levels of post-treatment arsenic are expected. It is further expected that this invention supplies a very low-cost solution to arsenic poisoning for large population segments.
US07820051B2 Recycling of electrochemical-mechanical planarization (ECMP) slurries/electrolytes
A method, process and system for the recycling of electrochemical-mechanical planarization slurries/electrolytes as they are used in the back end of line of the semiconductor wafer manufacturing process is disclosed. The method, process and system includes with the removal of metal ions from slurries using ion exchange media and/or electrochemical deposition.
US07820046B2 Filter assembly for sampling
A filter assembly is provided for obtaining a filtered liquid sample from slurry, such as a liquid process stream that contains liquid, dissolved matter and solids. A housing defines a cavity. A rod is arranged in the cavity and supports a filter. A cartridge comprises the filter, and is arranged between the housing and the rod. Furthermore, there is a helicoidal passage for a slurry defined by the housing and the cartridge. There is also a cavity defined by the rod and the cartridge. The slurry has velocity that generates scouring and cleaning action on the filter media thus preventing cake formation on the filter. The filtering apparatus of the present invention provides reliable and continuous on-line sample delivery for an analyzer.
US07820045B2 Sludge filter for separating sludge liquids from sludge solids
A sludge filter is comprised of a mesh filter media secured to a support net. The support net includes a front surface adjacent the filter media and a rear surface opposite the filter media, the rear surface having a plurality of outwardly extending nodes to define flow channels for horizontal and vertical fluid flow intermediate the net and a container surface. The sludge filter is attached directly to the walls or floor of a container. In a preferred embodiment a border of the sludge filter comprises one part of a two-part fastener system with a second part of the two-part fastener system attached to a container along the perimeter of the filter coverage area, so that the filter medium may be removably attached to the container.
US07820042B2 Method for removing air from a chromatography column
The invention relates to a method for removing air from the bed space of a chromatography column. The method involves use a chromatography column having an inner wall which comprises at least one elongated groove through which air can pass from the bed space to a chamber above an adapter assembly.
US07820040B2 Water pollution trap and methods of use thereof
A filtration device and method for removing pollutants from fluid such as storm-water. The filtration device has a chamber including a series of pivotal filtration assemblies each including a weir and filter. The filters are selected and positioned for sequentially filtering larger then smaller pollutant particles from the water flowing through the device. The weirs are configured and positioned for sequentially permitting water overflow of (and thereby taking off-line) the smaller-particle size filters then the larger-particle size filters from the water flowing through the device. And the filtration assemblies are pivotally mounted to the chamber walls and configured so that, when one of the filters becomes clogged, the water pressure against it causes that filter assembly to pivot into a bypass position permitting water to flow under it.
US07820038B2 Ultraviolet radiation water treatment system
A water treatment system that performs a water purifying treatment by use of ultraviolet radiation, comprises a front stage ultraviolet radiation device for radiating ultraviolet light in a front stage process in a water purifying treatment process, a rear stage ultraviolet radiation device for radiating ultraviolet light in a rear stage process, and a controller for controlling these ultraviolet radiation devices.
US07820033B2 Method for adjusting yields in a light feed FCC reactor
A process for increasing ethylene yield in a cracked hydrocarbon is provided. A hydrocarbon feed stream comprising at least 90% by weight of one or more C4-C10 hydrocarbons can be heated to provide an effluent stream comprising at least 10% by weight propylene. The effluent stream can be selectively separated to provide a first stream comprising heavy naphtha, light cycle oil, slurry oil, or any combination thereof and a second stream comprising one or more C4-C10 hydrocarbons. The second stream can be treated to remove oxygenates, acid gases, water, or any combination thereof to provide a third stream comprising the one or more C4-C10 hydrocarbons. The third stream can be selectively separated to provide a product stream comprising at least 30% by weight propylene. At least a portion of the product stream can be recycled to the hydrocarbon feed stream to increase ethylene yield in the effluent stream.
US07820032B2 Method of hydrocarbon material fractionation and installation for its implementation
The main distinctive feature of the method lies in the fact that the hydrocarbon material is affected through primary and principal excitation by means of electromagnetic vibrations. The primary influence upon the hydrocarbon material is carried out prior to its feeding for thermal cracking, while the, principal influence is fulfilled in the rectifying column. For the method to be implemented, the primary excitation source in the installation is realized in a form of an electromagnetic oscillator, and the rectifying column is realized with possibility of resonance excitation provided, being the main exciter of the hydrocarbon material. The invention makes it possible to increase the percentage of output of lighter fractions, as well as to raise the quality of processing of raw materials.
US07820026B2 Method to deposit organic grafted film on barrier layer
Generally, the process includes depositing a barrier layer on a feature formed in a dielectric layer, decorating the barrier layer with a metal, performing a grafting process, initiating a copper layer and then filing the feature by use of a bulk copper fill process. Copper features formed according to aspects described herein have desirable adhesion properties to a barrier layer formed on a semiconductor substrate and demonstrate enhanced electromigration and stress migration results in the fabricated devices formed on the substrate.
US07820025B2 Methods of synthesizing an oxidant and applications thereof
Novel devices for synthesizing ferrate and uses thereof are described. One aspect of the invention relates to devices and systems for synthesizing ferrate at a site proximal to the site of use.
US07820021B2 Flip chip mounting method and method for connecting substrates
A flip chip mounting method which is applicable to the flip chip mounting of a next-generation LSI and high in productivity and reliability as well as a method for connecting substrates are provided. A circuit board 10 having a plurality of connecting terminals 11 and a semiconductor chip 20 having a plurality of electrode terminals 21 are disposed in mutually facing relation and a resin 13 containing conductive particles 12 and a gas bubble generating agent is supplied into the space therebetween. In this state, the resin 13 is heated to generate gas bubbles 30 from the gas bubble generating agent contained in the resin 13. The resin 13 is pushed toward the outside of the generated gas bubbles 30 by the growth thereof. The resin 13 pushed to the outside is self-assembled in the form of columns between the respective terminals of the circuit board 10 and the semiconductor chip 20. In this state, by pressing the semiconductor chip 20 against the circuit board 10, the conductive particles 12 contained in the resin 13 self-assembled between the facing terminals are brought into contact with each other to provide electrical connection between the terminals.
US07820018B2 Process and apparatus for applying optical coatings
A process and apparatus for applying an optical coating to a substrate, wherein a transition layer 12, which is used to match mechanical properties of a substrate 10 to mechanical properties of a layer system 16 to be applied upon the transition layer 12, is deposited on a front surface 20 of the substrate 10. For this purpose, during a sputtering process carried out in a vacuum chamber 18, reaction products 14 are incorporated at least virtually exclusively in the transition layer 12 on the substrate. This prevents other surfaces of the vacuum chamber 18 and the rear side 34 of the substrate 10 from being contaminated with the reaction products 14 and/or their precursors.
US07820016B2 Sputtering apparatus and method of preventing damage thereof
A sputtering apparatus includes a container; a plate for supporting the container; a first attachment for attaching the container to the plate; and a second attachment for less tightly attaching the container to the plate than through the first attachment.
US07820014B2 Systems and methods for remotely determining and changing cutting modes during decoking
A decoking system that not only enables an operator to remotely switch the coke-cutting process from boring to cutting mode without removing the drill stem from the coke drum, but also to remotely determine the drill stem's mode so that efficiency, safety and convenience are not compromised, is provided.
US07820013B2 Screen cylinder
A screen cylinder comprising screen slots (3) and accept channels (8) for directing the portion penetrated the screen slots (3) to an accept side (9) of the screen cylinder (1) of the fiber pulp suspension fed into a feed side (10) of the screen cylinder (1). At least one feed side surface (4) is provided between the screen slots (3) and the accept channels (8) comprise at least one first surface (5) of the accept channel (8) and at least one second surface (6). At least a third of the total length of the accept channel (8) is arranged in a direction opposite to a feed flow direction (A) of the fiber pulp suspension in relation to a normal (19) of a tangent (18) of the screen cylinder (1), which is arranged to pass through the screen slot (3).
US07820008B2 Fabric creped absorbent sheet with variable local basis weight
An absorbent cellulosic sheet having variable local basis weight includes a papermaking-fiber reticulum provided with (i) a plurality of cross-machine direction (CD) extending, fiber-enriched pileated regions of relatively high local basis weight interconnected by (ii) a plurality of elongated densified regions of compressed papermaking fibers. The elongated densified regions have relatively low local basis weight and are generally oriented along the machine direction (MD) of the sheet and have an MD/CD aspect ratio of at least 1.5. The products are most preferably prepared by way of a compactive dewatering/wet crepe process.
US07820007B2 Silicon electrode plate for plasma etching with superior durability
This silicon electrode plate for plasma etching is a silicon electrode plate for plasma etching with superior durability including silicon single crystal which, in terms of atomic ratio, contains 3 to 11 ppba of boron, and further contains a total of 0.5 to 6 ppba of either or both of phosphorus and arsenic.
US07820004B2 Method for producing worn article
A method for producing a worn article, capable of providing a desirable wearability while reducing the cost of production. The method includes the steps of: placing leg elastic members F along a first waveform α on a web W being carried, the first waveform α being continuous in a longitudinal direction L of the web W and having a predetermined wavelength λ and predetermined first amplitudes α1 and α2, thereby producing a composite sheet Ws; and cutting off the composite sheet Ws being carried, along a cut-off line CL having a second waveform β being continuous in the longitudinal direction L of the composite sheet Ws, having a wavelength λ equal to the wavelength λ and second amplitudes β1 and β2 smaller than the first amplitudes α1 and α2, and being in synchronism with the first waveform α.
US07820001B2 Latent elastic laminates and methods of making latent elastic laminates
A latent elastic laminate material, and methods of making latent elastic laminate materials. The laminate includes a latent polymer, which itself may or may not possess latent elasticity, that is applied to at least one elastic member while the elastic member is in a stretched configuration. The elastic member, at least partially covered with the latent polymer, is attached to at least one substrate. The amount of latent polymer applied to the elastic member may provide enough force to overcome a retractive force of the elastic member when the latent polymer is at a temperature below a softening point of the latent polymer, yet the amount of latent polymer may be small enough to allow the laminate to retract into an elastic, gathered structure when the laminate is heated to a softening point of the latent polymer. The laminate may be incorporated into a variety of articles including personal care garments and cleaning cloths.
US07820000B2 Tire producing method and tire molding machine
In a tire molding process, a mutual positional deviation or angular deviation between the axis of a carcass member and the axis of a bead core takes place in a produced tire when the bead core is set on the outer periphery of cylindrical carcass member. By the use of an estimation formula for estimating the primary harmonic component in the waveform of a radial force, an inverse waveform with the primary harmonic component inversed is found with respect to the measurement waveform of the produced tire or with respect to the treatment waveform with a numerical value treatment applied thereto. Thereafter, in producing a tire of the same size by the mold used for producing the preceding tire, the mutual positional deviation or angular deviation between the axis of the carcass member and the axis of the bead core found by a backward calculation from the estimation formula is changed to set the bead core on the carcass member.