Document Document Title
US08018638B2 Fabrication of cell cavities for electrooptic devices
This invention discloses methods to dispense adhesives for fabricating multiple electrooptic devices. In addition the invention also discloses on how the cavities of these electrooptic devices may be filled by an injection process. The Electrooptic devices of this invention may comprise liquid or solid electrolytes.
US08018637B2 Optical scanning apparatus and image forming apparatus
A second scanning lens has a refracting power in a sub-scanning direction, and an optical element-deforming unit that changes a position of the center of curvature of the second scanning lens in the sub-scanning direction to a direction substantially parallel to the sub-scanning direction. Further, a function Cs(y) of a curvature in the sub-scanning direction of the scanning lens deformed by the optical element-deforming unit in the scanning lens is set to have only one extreme value within a mirror surface region on a first surface of the lens.
US08018635B2 Information recording system and method, information reproducing system and method, information recording and reproducing system, manuscript data processing apparatus, reproduction data processing apparatus, storage medium storing manuscript data processing program thereon, and storage medium storing reproduction data processing program thereon
An information recording system includes an image generating unit that generates, from input manuscript data, image data of the manuscript; a characteristic data extracting unit that extracts, from the image data, characteristic data indicating a characteristic of the image data generated by the image generating unit; a characteristic data coding unit that encodes the characteristic data; and an image forming unit that forms the image data on an image recording medium together with the encoded characteristic data.
US08018631B2 Original reading device and image forming apparatus
A line image sensor reads an image of a reading position on a contact glass by a plurality of lines in a main-scanning direction. A replacing unit replaces, when there is a pixel whose read values of read data from a plurality of read lines in a same main scanning period are smaller than a predetermined black threshold and an adjacent pixel whose two arbitrary read values have a difference larger than a predetermined threshold near the pixel, and if the pixel remains at a same pixel position in a predetermined number of continuous main scanning periods, replaces read data of the adjacent pixel and a predetermined number of subsequent pixels with white pixel data.
US08018628B2 Image reading apparatus
To provide a technology which facilitates an operation for placing a document with a larger size than a size of a document table, on the document table. A document cover is positioned at a plurality of open positions to a document table. A pivot of a document table 2 and a hinge 7 is configured by two pivots A1, A2, and a constricted portion 1b and it is configured in such a manner that, in case of setting a document with a smaller size than that of the document table 2, the pivot A2 is pivoted at a convex portion 7a of the hinge 7, and in case of setting a document with a larger size than that of the document table 2, the convex portion 7a is moved to the pivot A1 side through the constricted portion 1b, and the pivot A1 is pivoted at the convex portion 7a.
US08018627B2 Shared image scanning method and picture scanner thereof
The present invention discloses a shared image scanning method and picture scanner thereof. The method includes the steps of: sharing a desired scanning document into image areas; constructing images captured from each image area into a whole document sensing image to be used by the scanner. The scanner includes reflecting mirrors, light source modules and image sensing modules in a frame. The reflecting mirrors are installed in the frame with an interval apart from each other and corresponding to the image areas. The light source modules project lights onto the image areas to produce document images which are captured by the corresponding image sensing module and converted into image signals, and processed by an image processing unit to produce a whole document sensing image signal. Thus, the scanner applying the shared image method of the present invention can complete a document scanning quickly.
US08018624B2 Methods, systems, and media to enhance image processing in a color reprographic system
Methods, systems, and media to enhance image processing for a color reprographic system are disclosed. Embodiments of the invention may calibrate a component like scanner and/or printer in response to user input and/or coupling the component to the reprographic system. More specifically, embodiments may generate correction parameters that describe differences in color values between an image scanned by a scanner or an image printed by the printer by comparing the outputs to known characteristics like color values for the image. Some embodiments comprise a graphical user interface (GUI) to communicate with the user, allowing the user to select user preferences to change, for example, the brightness of an image being copied. Further embodiments incorporate network and phone system interfaces to communicate with remote components as well as to receive input from and/or output to other systems via email, facsimile, etc.
US08018622B2 Image forming apparatus and image processing apparatus
An image forming apparatus is constituted by a dark color image forming station for forming an image with such a toner of recording materials having the same hue and different lightness as has a lower lightness; a light color image forming station for forming an image with such a toner of the recording materials having the same hue and different lightness as has a higher lightness; and a control portion for effecting control so that an image to be emphasized by partly disappearing or by relatively and partly decreasing in density is formable substantially only with the toner having the higher lightness.
US08018612B2 Image processing apparatuses, methods and systems that select an apparatus for performing image processing on an image
An image processing apparatus includes: an image processing section that performs a predetermined image processing on the image; a first performance information acquiring section that acquires a first performance information including information regarding a time for which the image processing section performs the predetermined image processing on the image; a second performance information acquiring section that acquires a second performance information including information regarding a time for which any image processing apparatus other than the image processing apparatus performs the predetermined image processing on the image; a performance comparison section that compares the first performance information acquired by the first performance information acquiring section with the second performance information acquired by the second performance information acquiring section; a processing apparatus selecting section that selects which of the image processing section of the image processing apparatus or the other image processing apparatus performs the predetermined image processing on the image based on the comparison result by the performance comparison section; and a processing control section that causes either the image processing apparatus or the other image processing apparatus which is selected by the image processing apparatus selecting section to perform the predetermined image processing on the image.
US08018611B2 Classification information setting method, and television
A classification information setting method for classifying contents into series comprises: a similarity determination step for determining a similarity between first contents classified into a series and second contents unclassified yet; and a classification setting step for setting, in case the similarity exists, classification information related to the first contents, as classification information for the second contents. At the similarity determination step, the similarity is determined by comparing text data contained in the first contents and text data contained in the second contents.
US08018610B2 Methods and systems for imaging device remote application interaction
Aspects of the present invention relate to systems, methods and devices for interacting with a remote computing device from an imaging device. These aspects may comprise remote computing devices configured to communicate with imaging devices, imaging devices configured to communicate with remote computing devices and systems comprising various combinations of remote computing devices in communication with imaging devices.
US08018609B2 Information processing device, information recording medium manufacturing device, information recording medium, methods therefore, and computer program
An information processing device for executing content reproduction processing includes: a content reproduction processing unit for executing data transformation processing for replacing a part of configuration data of input content to be reproduced with transformation data, and executing processing for reproducing the reproduction content; and a parameter generating unit for providing the content reproduction processing unit with a parameter to be applied in the data transformation processing; wherein the content reproduction processing unit has a configuration for obtaining a parameter identifier that is different for each segment set as a sectioning region of reproduction content, and outputting a parameter calculation request accompanied by the parameter identifier to the parameter generating unit; and wherein the parameter generating unit has a configuration for providing the content reproducing unit with a parameter corresponding to a segment, in response to the parameter calculation request from the content reproducing unit.
US08018607B2 Scanner power management system and method
A power management system for a scanner device comprises an onboard power source and an interface port adapted to receive power from a remote host. The system also comprises a power manager accessible by a processor and adapted to automatically determine whether to draw power for an operating-mode from the onboard power source or the remote host.
US08018606B2 Color page printer with counter
There is provided a color page printer including a print engine operable by a color mode for executing color printing and a monochrome mode for executing monochrome printing, and a control unit for controlling the print engine to generate a printed paper having a content corresponding to received print data. The control unit is a unit equipped with a print number output section for outputting numbers of surfaces printed by a color mode and a monochrome mode of the print engine respectively as a number of color prints and a number of monochrome prints in an engine counter mode, numbers of surfaces printed based on print data for which color print is specified and print data for which monochrome print is specified respectively as a number of color prints and a number of monochrome prints in a driver specified counter mode, and a number of printing surfaces whose printed result was color and a number of printing surfaces whose printed result was monochrome respectively as a number of color prints and a number of monochrome prints in a real counter mode.
US08018594B2 Lithographic apparatus with multiple alignment arrangements and alignment measuring method
A lithographic apparatus has a plurality of different alignment arrangements that are used to perform an alignment measurement on the same mark(s) by: detecting a first alignment mark located on an object and producing a first alignment signal by a first detector; detecting the first mark and producing a second alignment signal by a second detector using a different alignment measurement than the first detector; receiving the first alignment signal from the first detector; calculating a first position of the at least first mark based on the first alignment signal; receiving the second alignment signal from the second detector; calculating a further first position of the at least first mark based on the second alignment signal.
US08018592B2 Optical system for a particle analyzer and particle analyzer using same
A compact optical system for a particle analyzer and particle analyzer using same are provided. The optical system for a particle analyzer of the present invention comprises a light source, an irradiation optical system for irradiating particles passing through a flow cell with light from the light source, a photodetector for receiving the scattered light from the particles, a light shielding member for blocking the direct light from the light source from impinging the photodetector, and a detecting lens for directing the scattered light toward the photodetector, wherein the irradiation optical system forms a first focus that focuses the light from the light source on the particle passing through the flow cell, and forms a second focus that focuses the light from the light source at a position between the detecting lens and photodetector, and disposes the light shielding member at the position of the second focus.
US08018590B2 Three-dimensional optical sensor and system for combustion sensing and control
A system includes an optical sensor that optically measures and spatially resolves in three dimensions at least one chemical species within a flame produced by a device and a component that correlates the three dimensionally measured at least one chemical species to at least one parameter of the device.
US08018589B2 Apparatus and methods relating to enhanced spectral measurement systems
The apparatus and methods herein provide light sources and spectral measurement systems that can improve the quality of images and the ability of users to distinguish desired features when making spectroscopy measurements by providing methods and apparatus that can improve the dynamic range of data from spectral measurement systems.
US08018583B2 Lens screening device
An lens screening device for controlling diameters of lenses within a range from a lower threshold to a upper threshold. The lens screening device includes a number of connecting poles and two screening plates. Each of the screening plates includes a tray and a scraper slidably disposed on the tray and configure for scraping the tray. The tray defines a number of through holes of same diameter therein. The diameter of the through holes in an upper screening plate is larger than that of the through holes in a lower screening plate.
US08018578B2 Pellicle, lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A pellicle for integrated circuit equipment operating in an EUV range includes a multi-layered structure of alternating layers. The pellicle is constructed and arranged to reflect or absorb undesired radiation and to intercept debris to enhance the spectral purity of a radiation beam.
US08018575B2 Exposure apparatus, and device manufacturing method
A hydrostatic pad (32) and a hydrostatic pad (34) hold a wafer (W) and a table (TB) on which the wafer is mounted. The hydrostatic pad (32) maintains the distance between the bearing surface and the wafer (W) in the direction of the optical axis of a projection optical system (PL) at a predetermined value. Further, since the hydrostatic pads, unlike static gas bearings, utilize the static pressure of incompressible fluid (liquid) between the bearing surface and a support object (substrate), the rigidity of the bearing is high and the distance between the bearing surface and the substrate is maintained stable and constant. In addition, liquid (e.g., pure water) is higher in viscosity than gas (e.g., air), and is superior in vibration damping compared to gas. Accordingly, pattern transfer on a wafer (substrate) substantially free from defocus can be achieved, without necessarily having to arrange a focal position detection system.
US08018574B2 Lithographic apparatus, radiation system and device manufacturing method
A foil trap is located in a path of a radiation beam. The foil trap includes an array of conductive strips. A voltage application circuit is coupled to the strips to apply voltage differences between pairs of adjacent ones of the strips. The voltage application circuit includes a current limiting circuit arranged to limit currents to the strips to values below a threshold value above which self-sustained arc discharge may arise in the foil trap.
US08018571B2 Exposure apparatus and exposure method, and device manufacturing method
An exposure apparatus includes: a supply port through which a liquid is supplied to an optical path space of exposure light; and a supply passage in which the liquid flows and which is in fluid communication with the supply port. An amount of a predetermined substance mixed into the liquid in the supply passage is set to be not greater than a predetermined value.
US08018561B2 Liquid crystal display element
Electrode slit portions are formed in a pixel electrode in a direction of crossing a slit for dividing a liquid crystal layer into a plurality of domains. A titanium oxide film is formed so as to be exposed to the liquid crystal layer side via the electrode slit portions, the titanium oxide film having a relative dielectric constant higher than that of an organic film formed at positions corresponding to the electrode slit portions. By the titanium oxide film, an electric field of each domain is set, angles between the director in the vicinity of the electrode slit portion and transmission axes of polarizing plates are made to approximately 45°, and a decrease in transmittance caused by the falling direction of the director can be suppressed. The transmittance and contrast ratio are secured, and simultaneously an excellent wide viewing angle range can be obtained.
US08018558B2 Liquid crystal display device
A face plate on which a frame is formed for improved design aesthetics is bonded to a top surface of an upper polarizer of a liquid crystal display panel with a pressure-sensitive adhesive material. The frame on the face plate is formed from five layers of printing. The pressure-sensitive adhesive material has a three-layer structure having a first pressure-sensitive adhesive member, a base material, and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive member. The first pressure-sensitive adhesive member is formed thicker than the second pressure-sensitive adhesive member, and hence the pressure-sensitive adhesive material can maintain a necessary thickness above the frame formed on the face plate. The reliability of adhesion between the face plate and the liquid crystal display panel is thus improved.
US08018555B2 Backlight device for liquid crystal display
A backlight device for a liquid crystal display device includes a light source providing light; a light waveguide plate 40 guiding light from the light source, having an emitting surface, a front surface and a bottom surface, the emitting surface adjacent to the light source; a reflector arranged under the bottom surface of the light wave guide plate, reflecting light; and at least one cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) film arranged over the front surface of the light wave guide plate, collimating light.
US08018554B2 Liquid crystal display device with internal retardation layer at reflection region and electronic apparatus
A liquid crystal device, in which a liquid crystal layer is held between a pair of substrates, includes a plurality of pixels and a retardation layer. Each of the plurality of pixels includes a transmissive display area and a reflective display area. The retardation layer is arranged at a position that at least overlaps the reflective display areas and on an inner surface side of the pair of substrates. The retardation layer is formed so as to extend over the reflective display areas of at least two adjacent pixels among the plurality of pixels. The retardation layer has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is located on one of the two adjacent pixels. The second end portion is opposite the first end portion and located on the other pixel of the two adjacent pixels.
US08018550B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display can be adjusted to a desired viewing angle easily. A display screen of the liquid crystal display can be adjusted to the desired viewing angle thereby to drive a fixing portion of a bracket, a rotating portion of an operating member or a securing portion of an adjusting member to rotate correspondingly.
US08018549B2 Liquid crystal display having plastic frame rotatable with lower tray
A liquid crystal display includes a lower tray, a plastic frame, and a plurality of lamps. The lower tray includes a bottom plate and two side plates opposite to each other. The side plates are perpendicularly connected with the bottom plate. The plastic frame includes a first wall, a second wall, and two opposite third walls. The first wall, the second wall and the third walls are connected end to end, and the first wall is opposite to the second wall. The plastic frame and the bottom plate of the lower tray form a first accommodating space. The lamps are placed in the first accommodating space. The first wall of the plastic frame and the side plates of the lower tray form a hinge device to make the plastic frame and the lower tray fixed and rotatable.
US08018548B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device includes a liquid crystal display panel PNL including a pair of mutually opposed substrates, a display section which is composed of a plurality of matrix-arrayed display pixels, and a peripheral region surrounding the display section, a driving circuit, which drives the display pixels, a controller which controls the driving circuit, and a power supply circuit which supplies power to the driving circuit and the controller, wherein the controller and the power supply circuit are built in a 1-chip system IC and are disposed on the peripheral region.
US08018546B2 Display device, electronic device and method of driving display device
The present invention provides a display device which can display characters clearly and display images smoothly. An area gray scale method is adopted and a configuration of one pixel is changed depending on a mode, by selecting one or more display regions in each pixel. When characters are needed to be displayed clearly, one pixel is configured by selecting a stripe arrangement. Thus, clear display can be conducted. When images are needed to be displayed, one pixel is configured by selecting an indented state. Thus, smooth display can be conducted.
US08018544B2 Flat panel display and method for fabricating the same
A flat panel display, having an anti-electrostatic configuration, comprising a plurality of gate lines and data lines formed on an insulating substrate having an emission region and a pad portion, an anti-electrostatic wire initially coupling the gate lines, and an anti-electrostatic circuit coupled to a data line. The anti-electrostatic wire between a gate line and an adjacent gate line is subsequently cut by an opening for cutting the anti-electrostatic wire to electrically isolate the respective gate lines.
US08018542B2 Display substrate for easy detection of pattern misalignment
A display substrate includes a base substrate, a conductive line on the base substrate, a switching element and a testing member. The switching element includes a first electrode formed on the semiconductor layer pattern and electrically connected to the conductive line, and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode and semiconductor layer pattern. The testing member includes a conductive line testing portion that is formed from the same layer as the conductive line and an electrode testing portion that is formed from the same layer as the first electrode. The conductive line testing portion and the electrode testing portion have substantially the same width as the conductive line and the first electrode, respectively. The testing member also includes a semiconductor layer testing portion. The display substrate lends itself to efficient manufacturing with reduced process time and cost.
US08018537B2 Pixels having polarity extension regions for multi-domain vertical alignment liquid crystal displays
A multi-domain vertical alignment liquid crystal display that does not require physical features on the substrate (such as protrusions and ITO slits) is disclosed. Each pixel of the MVA LCD is subdivided into color components, which are further divided into color dots. The color components include polarized extension regions that extend between color dots of neighboring color components (and neighboring pixels). The voltage polarity of the color dots and polarized extension regions are arranged so that fringe fields in each color dot causes multiple liquid crystal domains in each color dot. Specifically, the color dots and polarity extension regions of the display are arranged so that neighboring polarized elements have opposite polarities.
US08018527B2 Connecting structure and digital camera module employing the same
A digital camera module (100) includes an image capturing apparatus (30) and a connecting structure (40). The image capturing apparatus includes an image sensing module (32) and a flashing module (34). The connecting structure includes a cover (42) configured for receiving the image sensing module therein, and a holding member (44) connected to the cover and configured for fixing the flashing module thereon at a height substantially equal to that of the image sensing module.
US08018523B2 Imaging optical system for image sensor
Provided is a imaging optical system for an image sensor. The imaging optical system includes a stop and a first lens sequentially arranged from an object side. The first lens has aspherical surfaces on both sides and has a positive refractive power, a first surface of the first lens which faces the object side is a convex surface and a second surface of the first lens which faces an image side is a convex surface.
US08018522B2 Lens barrel, image pickup device, lens barrel inspecting method, and lens barrel manufacturing method
A lens barrel includes a fourth lens, a prism, and a sixth lens. The fourth lens receives a light flux incident along a first optical axis. The prism includes a reflecting surface reflecting the light flux passing through the fourth lens to a direction along a second optical axis intersecting with the first optical axis. The sixth lens receives the light flux reflected by the prism. A second group frame includes an opening portion, a prism retaining frame that is arranged in a more inner position than the opening portion and in which the prism is contained, and a plurality of adhesive pockets arranged on an area around the prism retaining frame and being open to the side of the opening portion. Adhesive agent is filled in the adhesive pockets.
US08018516B2 Solid-state image sensor and signal processing method of same
A signal processing method of a solid-state image sensor includes comparing a high-sensitivity-pixel output signal and a first threshold value to determine whether or not the high-sensitivity-pixel output signal reaches a level of a saturated-high-sensitivity-pixel output signal. If the high-sensitivity-pixel output signal does not reach the level of the saturated-high-sensitivity-pixel output signal, a difference value between the high-sensitivity-pixel output signal and an amplified low-sensitivity-pixel output signal is calculated. The amplified low-sensitivity-pixel output signal is obtained by multiplying a low-sensitivity-pixel output signal by a sensitivity ratio, which is obtained by dividing a sensitivity value of a high sensitivity pixel by a sensitivity value of a low sensitivity pixel. A first or second image signal is output according to whether an absolute value of the difference value is smaller than a second threshold value or not.
US08018514B1 Charge injection device camera system for radiation-hardened applications
An imaging system for deployment within a high-radiation environment. The imaging system has an imaging array of photosensitive pixels, each of which contains a sense gate for integrating photogenerated charge during the course of a frame and an amplifier transistor for sampling voltage on the sense gate. Each pixel also contains an inject gate and select and reset FETs, for operation as a charge injection device (CID). Moreover, a circuit including a monitor transistor on each polysilicon layer of the imaging array provides a threshold voltage monitor signal used to compensate a drive signal applied to the array on the basis of threshold voltage shifts induced by exposure to radiation. The array is contained within a remote head that may be evacuated and temperature-controlled and that may contain radiation-hardened drive electronics for generating drive signals upon receipt of a start pulse received from a camera control unit located at a significant distance from the remote head.
US08018513B2 Adapted piecewise linear processing device
A piecewise linear processing device applies different amplification rates according to a general environment and a low luminance environment where much noise exists. The piecewise linear processing device includes a knee point storing unit configured to store a user's default setting value and low luminance setting value; a luminance detecting unit configured to detect a noisy environment to output a current luminance information signal and a maximum luminance information signal; an adaptive knee point supply unit configured to receive the default setting value, the low luminance setting value, the current luminance information signal, and the maximum luminance information signal to supply a adjusted adaptive knee point according to a degree of noise; and a piecewise linear processing unit configured to apply a section amplification rate to an input data on the basis of a region corresponding to the adaptive knee point.
US08018510B2 Summing signals in pixel units of solid-state imager
A solid-state imaging device is provided in which sensitivity is prevented from lowering even when signals of pixels are mixed. The solid-state imaging device includes a plurality of pixel units each of which has a photoelectric conversion element, and is capable of summing signals corresponding to respective outputs of the photoelectric conversion elements of the pixel units. The device includes: a plurality of capacitors, each of which individually accumulates electric charges corresponding to a signal outputted from the associated photoelectric conversion element; and a plurality of MOS transistors which are alternately connected with the associated capacitor. By disconnecting the MOS transistor, the electric charges of the signal outputted from each of the photoelectric conversion elements are accumulated in each associated capacitor, and by conducting the MOS transistors to sum the signals of the pixel units, the capacitors are connected in series.
US08018506B2 Image taking apparatus with shading correction
An image taking apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention comprises: a light source discrimination device which discriminates a light source in a photographing environment; and a shading correction device which makes shading correction according to the light source discriminated by the light source discrimination device for an image photographed under the light source in the photographing environment. According to the image taking apparatus of the present invention, the shading correction is made according to the light source in the photographing environment, whereby the excellent image quality can be maintained by appropriately making shading correction even if the light source is changed.
US08018503B2 Imaging apparatus with multiple timing-adjusting parts
An imaging apparatus includes a nonvolatile memory storing multiple kinds of parameters, a volatile memory storing temporarily the parameters read out from the nonvolatile memory, a processing part executing a processing using the parameters stored in the volatile memory and a data controlling part reading out the parameters from the nonvolatile memory according to a provided clock and transferring the parameters to the volatile memory, and the imaging apparatus includes a first timing-adjusting part outputting a first clock for reading out a part of the multiple kinds of parameters stored in the nonvolatile memory to the data controlling part, when the imaging apparatus is powered on, and a second timing-adjusting part outputting a second clock for reading out another part of the multiple kinds of parameters stored in the nonvolatile memory to the data controlling part, while the imaging apparatus is preparing for image shooting.
US08018498B2 Image pickup apparatus and exposure control method
A digital still camera includes a lens system and an image sensor. The image sensor receives object light through the lens system to output an image signal of an object, wherein exposure control and autofocus control of the lens system are carried out according to the image signal. The image sensor photographs an image of the object after the exposure control and the autofocus control. Auxiliary light is applied to the object with an illumination light source for the autofocus control. A second exposure value is determined by use of a first exposure value determined according to object brightness measured while the illumination light source is inactive. Exposure is carried out to measure object brightness by use of the second exposure value while the auxiliary light is applied, for determining a third exposure value for use in the autofocus control with the auxiliary light.
US08018497B2 Image pick-up apparatus having still image advancing/retreating manipulation function, and method and non-transitory computer readable medium therefor
A shooting operation is performed using a short exposure time at least one to obtain frame image data “A”, and a shooting operation is performed a plurality of times using a long exposure time to obtain sequential frame image data “B”. The image data “A” and “B” are recorded in a single file. In a moving image displaying operation, a moving image consisting of the plural pieces of frame image data “B” sequentially shot using the long exposure time is displayed. When the moving image being displayed is paused, a still image is displayed based on the frame image data “A” shot using the short exposure time.
US08018496B2 Method for deactivating an image capturing device when present in a restricted or prohibited zone
The invention described is a method and system for preventing image capture and transmission in a restricted or prohibited zone.
US08018493B2 Image data transfer apparatus
An image data transfer apparatus includes an acquisition unit that acquires predetermined information for at least one image file, from a storage medium storing a image file which can store plural pieces of image data, an ID adding unit that adds identification information to at least a part of all pieces of image data stored in at least one image file, based on the acquired predetermined information, a unit that receives a command for selecting at least one of all pieces of the image data each of which is added with the identification information, a transmission unit that transmits the identification information of the selected image data to the external device, and an image data transmission unit that transmits image data in response to a request from the external device.
US08018491B2 Summarization of football video content
Summarization of video content including football.
US08018490B2 Vehicle surrounding image display device
A vehicle surrounding image display device according to the present invention combines an image obtained by reducing in size an image taken by a camera provided at the center of the rear side of a vehicle, and images obtained by deforming images taken by cameras provided at the left and right sides of the vehicle such that the outward inclination of the inner side in the vehicle width direction of each of the left and right side images is gradually increased toward the lower end of the inner side. The vehicle surrounding image display device then generates a single image simulating the circumstances behind the user's own vehicle as observed from a single virtual viewpoint in a realistic form, and displays the generated image on a display device.
US08018488B2 Vehicle-periphery image generating apparatus and method of switching images
A vehicle-periphery image generating apparatus and an image switching method which provides a rear view image displayed additionally from a vehicle-periphery image is presented at an adequate timing with eye-friendliness. There are provided a parallel detector for detecting that a vehicle is oriented substantially parallel to a parking space, an approach detector for detecting that at least part of the vehicle is entering the parking space, and a display controller for switching display of an image from a vehicle-periphery image to a rear view image when the vehicle is oriented substantially parallel to the parking space and at least part of the vehicle is approaching into the parking space, so that the vehicle-periphery image and the rear view image are switched and displayed as needed according to the state of the vehicle with respect to the parking space and images optimal for respective scenes are displayed over the full screen.
US08018487B2 Method and apparatus for automated quality assurance in medical imaging
The present invention relates to a computer-implemented quality assurance system, which includes the steps of retrieving quality assurance and supporting information from a database; receiving information on technical variables from monitoring of the patient, and on radiographic equipment in the performance of an imaging study; generating a quality assurance score after said imaging study based on said technical variables and said quality assurance and supporting information; and performing a quality assurance analysis of the imaging study based on the quality assurance score. The score can be used to perform trending analysis, and provide recommendations for education, and feedback, to clinicians, radiologists, and departments.
US08018482B2 Three-dimensional display device and driving method thereof
A three-dimensional display device includes an image display unit and a light control unit facing the image display unit. The light control unit includes first and second substrates facing each other, a 2-viewpoint electrode layer and a multi-viewpoint electrode layer located between the first and second substrates, and a liquid crystal layer located between the first and second substrates.
US08018480B2 Image forming apparatus and its control method
A first process unit replaces a portion of pixels in a pixel sequence forming a first scanning line of a first color by a different portion of pixels in a pixel sequence forming a second scanning line of the first color. A second process unit performs a thicken process to a pixel sequence of a scanning line of a second color superimposed on the first line of the first color to thicken the pixel sequence of the scanning line of the second color. The pixel sequence of the scanning line to be thickened corresponds a replacement point of the replaced pixel of the first color.
US08018475B2 Circuits, displays and apparatus for providing opposing offsets in amplifier output voltages and methods of operating same
A driver circuit can include a channel amplifier configured to operate in a first mode to provide a channel amplifier output including a positive offset voltage responsive to a first state of a control signal and configured to operate in a second mode to provide the channel amplifier output including a negative offset voltage responsive to a second state of the control signal. Related displays, apparatus, and methods are disclosed.
US08018469B2 System, device, method and utility to convert images retrieved from a device to a format supported by a device management tool
In one embodiment, an image conversion utility is embodied in code that, in response to receiving an image request from a device management tool: 1) retrieve an image from a device that is a target of the image request, the image illustrating at least a portion of the device; 2) convert the image to a format supported by the device management tool; and 3) return the converted image to the device management tool. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
US08018468B2 Image signal processor, image signal processing method for use in the same, and program
Disclosed herein is an image signal processor for carrying out conversion into an xvYCC signal by using a photograph film as a material, the image signal processor including: acquisition means for acquiring print film concentration data based on said photograph film; generation means for generating spectral data on an image on a screen previously presumed based on spectral concentration characteristics of colors of a positive film having an image projected on said screen, a spectral distribution of a projection light source, and the print film concentration data; arithmetical operation means for arithmetically operating an XYZ tri-stimulus value corresponding to the spectral data; and conversion means for converting the XYZ tri-stimulus value into the xvYCC signal.
US08018464B2 Computer system for executing switch and table translate instructions requiring wide operands
A programmable processor and method for improving the performance of processors by expanding at least two source operands, or a source and a result operand, to a width greater than the width of either the general purpose register or the data path width. The present invention provides operands which are substantially larger than the data path width of the processor by using the contents of a general purpose register to specify a memory address at which a plurality of data path widths of data can be read or written, as well as the size and shape of the operand. In addition, several instructions and apparatus for implementing these instructions are described which obtain performance advantages if the operands are not limited to the width and accessible number of general purpose registers.
US08018462B2 Pack avatar for shared inventory in a virtual universe
Generally speaking, systems, methods and media for providing a pack avatar for sharing inventory in a virtual universe are disclosed. Embodiments of a method may include receiving a request to create a pack avatar carrying one or more shared inventory items in a virtual universe and creating a pack avatar based on the received requests. Embodiments may include rendering the pack avatar in the virtual universe. Embodiments may also include, in response to receiving a request from a virtual universe user to borrow one or more shared inventory items carried by the pack avatar, accessing the one or more requested shared inventory items and rendering the one or more requested shared inventory items in the virtual universe. Further embodiments may include associating the pack avatar with a user and moving the pack avatar within the virtual universe.
US08018459B2 Calibration of transmission system using tonal visualization components
The present disclosure relates to broadcast signal calibration devices and methods. A system is provided that permits calibration or tuning of broadcast signal transmission and reception equipment through the use of visual representation of test signals. The generated visualizations, incorporating color and shape, are examined to determine whether any adjustments to the broadcast equipment are needed to compensate for equipment age, deterioration, and the like.
US08018455B2 Multi-user animation coupled to bulletin board
A multi-user animation process receives input from multiple remote clients to manipulate avatars through a modeled 3-D environment. Each user is represented by an avatar. The 3-D environment and avatar position/location data is provided to client workstations, which display a simulated environment visible to all participants. A text or speech-based bulletin board application is coupled to the animation process. The bulletin board application receives text or speech input from the multiple remote users and publishes the input in a public forum. The bulletin board application maintains multiple forums organized by topic. Access or participation to particular forums is coordinated with the animation process, such that each user may be permitted access to a forum only when the user's avatar is located within a designated room or region of the modeled 3-D environment.
US08018451B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display (LCD) capable of enhancing display quality includes a voltage generation unit, a clock generation unit, a gate driving unit, and a display unit. The voltage generation unit outputs a gate-on voltage and first and second gate-off voltages that are different from each other. The clock generation unit outputs a first clock signal and a second clock signal whose phase is opposite to the phase of the first clock signal. The first clock signal swings between the gate-on voltage and the first gate-off voltage. The gate driving unit is provided with the first clock signal, the second clock signal, and the second gate-off voltage and outputs a gate signal. The display unit includes a plurality of pixels that are turned on or off in response to the gate signal and that display an image.
US08018450B2 Electrooptic device, driving circuit, and electronic device
An electrooptic device includes a display panel; an illuminating unit; an ambient-light measuring unit; a luminance control unit; a display-mode switching unit; and a storage unit, wherein when the display panel is switched to the transmission display mode by the display-mode switching unit, the gamma value for the transmission display is obtained from the plurality of tables stored in the storage unit, and the gamma value for the transmission display is applied; and when the display panel is switched to the reflection display mode by the display-mode switching unit, the gamma value for the reflection display is obtained from the plurality of tables stored in the storage unit, and the gamma value for the reflection display is applied.
US08018446B2 Differential signaling system and display using the same
A differential signaling system includes a pair of differential signal lines having a transmitting end and a receiving end, and a termination resistor and an active impedance compensator connected in parallel between the pair of differential signal lines at the receiving end, wherein the active impedance compensator includes a plurality of impedance adjustment circuits connected in parallel between the pair of differential signal lines.
US08018445B2 Serial data input system
Increase in power consumption and increase in power supply noise of a serial data input system are suppressed, while clock skew is more easily prevented. The serial data input system of this invention includes a shift register that takes in and shifts serially transferred display data in synchronization with a clock SCL, a clock counter that counts the number of clock pulses of the clock SCL and outputs each of clock count signals BIT08, BIT16 and BIT24 when the counted number of the clock pulses of the clock SCL reaches each of count numbers 8, 16 and 24 respectively, and registers into each of which the data stored in the shift register is transferred and stored collectively and in parallel in response to each of the clock count signals BIT08, BIP16 and BIT24 respectively.
US08018443B2 System for interaction with computer system using printed surface
A system for enabling interaction with a computer system is provided which is configured to receive, at the computer system, identity and movement data from a sensing device used to interact with a text field on a surface, determine information stored by the computer system which is associated with the identified text field, cause the computer system to perform an action associated with the determined information based on the received movement data, determine, at the computer system, a layout defining an arrangement of coded data indicative of the identity and information, and generate, at the computer system, print data indicative of the identity, layout and information. The sensing device senses coded data which encodes an identity of the text field and generates the identity data with the sensed identity and the movement data with movement of the sensing device by determining an orientation and position of the sensed coded data.
US08018439B2 Mobile appliance system and method enabling efficient entry
A mobile appliance and a method of using a mobile appliance are disclosed. The mobile appliance may include a microprocessor, a data entry device, a monitor, a candidate selection device, and software having instructions for controlling the microprocessor. A series of characters are provided to the appliance, and the series of characters is used to both indicate a function and indicate information for that function.
US08018438B2 Information processing apparatus and processing program in information processing apparatus
The present invention provides an information processing apparatus including: a keyboard that has a plurality of operating keys and is foldable via a hinge part, the keyboard being set in a closed state in which the operating keys are closed and in an opened state in which the operating keys are opened; and an apparatus main unit that is connected with the keyboard and performs a process corresponding to an operation of the operating keys on the keyboard. The closed state and the opened state of the keyboard are detected, and operation of one of the apparatus main unit and the keyboard is controlled according to a detection result.
US08018437B2 Mouse with in-the-air positioning function and computer device using the same
A mouse with coordinate and suspension positioning functions, which receives a directional light produced by an external illuminator. A second image sensor receives and converts the directional light into an electrical signal, and accordingly produces a directional image corresponding to the directional light. A second memory stores the directional image. When an image captured by a first image sensor cannot be focused, a processor enables the second image sensor and the second memory in order to analyze the directional image and obtain a rotating angle of the directional light for further fulfilling a coordinate positioning.
US08018430B2 Electro-dielectro-phoretic display device and method thereof
Electrophoretic particles and dielectrophoretic particles are included together in a unit pixel. Each of the electrophoretic particles and the dielectrophoretic particles includes two kinds of particles having different electric properties. The electrophoretic particles include positively charged particles and negatively charged particles. The dielectrophoretic particles include particles having low dielectric constant and particles having high dielectric constant. A first electric field for moving the electrophoretic particles and a second electric field for moving the dielectrophoretic particles are applied to the unit pixel. The second electric field has an asymmetric gradient in the direction where the dielectrophoretic particles move to determine movement directions of the dielectrophoretic particles having different dielectric constants.
US08018429B2 Surface plasmon display device and method thereof
A surface plasmon display device includes metal particles having a constant size within all of the pixel regions between a first electrode and a second electrode and a dielectric layer corresponding to each of the pixel regions formed on an inner surface of a first substrate, wherein the dielectric layer in each of the pixel regions has physical properties for causing the surface plasmon resonance corresponding to a wavelength designated to the corresponding pixel region.
US08018423B2 Shift register and liquid crystal display
A shift register is for generating scan signals. Each stage of the shift register comprises a first level lifting unit and at least a second level lifting unit, a first level lowering unit and at least a second level lowering unit, first and second driving units. The first level lowering and lifting units are for controlling the levels of signals at the first output terminal to output a first scan signal. The second level lowering unit and second level lifting unit are for controlling the levels of signals at the second output terminal to output at least a second scan signal. The first and second driving units are for turning on and off the first and the second level lifting units and the first and the second level lowering unit to control the first and second scan signals.
US08018422B2 Source driver, electro-optical device, and electronic instrument
A source driver supplies a grayscale voltage to a liquid crystal capacitor and a storage capacitor provided in parallel with the liquid crystal capacitor, a voltage that changes in synchronization with a polarity inversion timing being applied to one end of the storage capacitor. The source driver includes an offset value calculation section that calculates an offset value based on grayscale data corresponding to respective color components of one pixel, a grayscale data correction section that corrects the grayscale data using the offset value corresponding to the respective color components, and a source line driver section that drives a source line corresponding to the respective color components based on the grayscale data that has been corrected by the grayscale data correction section. The source line driver section drives the source line corresponding to the respective color components based on the grayscale data that has been corrected by the grayscale data correction section, and then drives the source lines corresponding to the respective color components based on the grayscale data before being corrected by the grayscale data correction section.
US08018419B2 Data driver and electro-optical device
A data driver includes a capture start timing setting register in which is set data for setting capture start timing of the gray-scale data based on a signal which indicates supply start timing of the gray-scale data, and a capture instruction signal generation circuit which generates first and second capture instruction signals which are delayed in relation to the signal which indicates the supply start timing of the gray-scale data for a period corresponding to the data set in the capture start timing setting register. First and second data latches capture gray-scale data on a gray-scale bus at timing based on the first and second capture instruction signals, respectively. First and second driver circuits drive comb-tooth distributed data lines belonging to first and second groups based on the gray-scale data captured in the first and second data latches, respectively.
US08018418B2 Data synchronization method and related apparatus for a display device
A data synchronization method for a transmitter of a display device includes utilizing a plurality of first signaling line sets to couple the transmitter and a plurality of receivers in a dedicated type manner, transmitting a synchronization signal to the plurality of receivers according to a transistor-to-transistor logic signal form, transmitting a synchronization start-up signal to the plurality of receivers via the plurality of first signaling line sets a first time later after the synchronization signal is transmitted, and then transmitting a data signal to the plurality of receivers via the plurality of first signaling line sets a second time later after the synchronization start-up signal is transmitted. The synchronization signal has a longer effective time than the synchronization start-up signal.
US08018417B2 Common voltage driving circuit of liquid crystal display
A common voltage driving circuit of a liquid crystal display, includes: a clock signal input unit that comprises a plurality of transistors and inputs first and second clock signals according to a gate output voltage; an output node voltage controller that comprises a plurality of transistors and condensers and changes voltages of positive and negative polarity output nodes by the first and second clock signals and first to third gate output voltages; an initialization voltage supply unit that comprises a plurality of transistors and supplies an initialization voltage of the output node voltage controller; and a common voltage output unit that comprises a plurality of transistors and a single condenser and prevents the voltages of the positive and negative polarity output nodes from being changed by using the condenser in alternately outputting higher and lower common voltages according to the voltages of the positive and negative polarity output nodes.
US08018416B2 Driving circuit with output control circuit and liquid crystal display using same
An exemplary driving circuit (20) includes gate lines (201) that are parallel to each other and that each extend along a first direction; first data lines (202) that are parallel to each other and that each extend along a second direction substantially orthogonal to the first direction; thin film transistors (203) provided in the vicinity of intersections of the gate lines and the data lines; a gate driving circuit (210) connected to the gate lines; a data driving circuit (220) connected to the data lines; an access circuit (230) configured for accessing data signals outputted by the data driving circuit; and an output control circuit (240) configured for receiving the data signals accessed by the access circuit and making the time period in which the data signals are applied to the first data lines in accord with the time period during which the thin film transistors are switched on.
US08018413B2 Driving apparatus for photo-addressing type display element, driving method and photo-addressing type display apparatus
A driving apparatus includes a voltage applying unit, a light irradiation unit and a resistance control unit. The voltage applying unit forms a voltage applying circuit together with a pair of electrode layers of a photo-addressing type display element. The voltage applying unit applies a voltage between the pair of electrode layers. The light irradiation unit irradiates the photo-addressing type display element with addressing light. The resistance control unit controls a resistance to a current which flows in a direction to reduce a potential difference between the pair of electrode layers to be larger than that during a period in which the voltage applying unit is applying the voltage.
US08018411B2 Thin film transistor array panel and method for manufacturing the same
A liquid crystal display device having a first substrate and a second substrate facing the first substrate, a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, a pixel electrode formed over the first substrate, a common electrode formed over the first substrate with insulating from the pixel electrode, wherein a portion of the common electrode overlaps with the pixel electrode, includes a gray voltage generator generating a plurality of gray voltages, an image signal modification assembly configured to receive a first image signal, a second image signal, and a third image signal for subsequent three frames and modify the second image signal based on the first image signal and the third image signal, and a data driver configured to provide a data voltage selected from the plurality of gray voltages to the pixel electrode corresponding to the modified signal in the image signal modification assembly. A longitudinal axis of the liquid crystal molecule is inclined at an angle with a longitudinal pixel electrode.
US08018409B2 Maximizing efficiency of battery-powered LED drivers
An apparatus and method is provided for optimizing LED driver efficiency. The present invention offers low cost solutions for powering LEDs while minimizing overall power dissipation in devices powered by a depletable power source. Low system cost is attained using a charge pump to increase LED drive voltage level and implementing combinations of drive techniques to overcome the inefficiency of the charge pump. A switch bypasses the charge pump when depletable power source output voltage is sufficient to directly drive an LED load. At certain output voltage levels, the switch can be opened causing the charge pump to boost drive voltage. The output voltage may also be PWM modulated to drive the LED load and, at some voltages, the depletable power source may drive the LED load directly. Efficiency levels of 90-97% are attainable.
US08018408B2 Organic light emitting diode display
An OLED display having a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines, an OLED adapted to emit images, a driving switching element adapted to supply the OLED with a driving current, a storage element having a first electrode and a second electrode, a first switching element having a first electrode, a control electrode and a second electrode, a second switching element having a control electrode adapted to be coupled to at least one of the plurality of scan lines and a third switching element having a control electrode adapted to be coupled to a previous scan line. The second switching element may be configured in a diode-like state connecting the driving switching element. The third switching element may be adapted to initialize a voltage stored in the storage element through at least one of the plurality of data lines.
US08018405B2 Organic light emitting display device with reduced variation between life times of organic light emitting diodes and driving method thereof
An organic light emitting diode (OLED) display device and a method for driving the OLED display device are provided. A gate drive circuit provides scan signals in sub-frames to scan lines. A data drive circuit provides a data signal to data lines. An emission control signal generation circuit provides first and second emission control signals to control the OLEDs. A display region includes pixels arranged in a matrix and connected to the scan lines, data lines, emission control lines, and power lines. The pixels include a first and a second unit pixel portion. The first unit pixel portion performs a time division control drive by driving a plurality of organic light emitting diodes by one shared pixel circuit. In the second unit portion one organic light emitting diode is driven by an independent pixel circuit.
US08018404B2 Image display device and method of controlling the same
An image display device includes a luminescence element, a first capacitor, a driver having a gate connected to a first electrode of the first capacitor and a source connected to an anode of the luminescence element, and a second capacitor connected to a second electrode of the first capacitor. A power source supplies a reference voltage to the first electrode of the first capacitor via a first switch. A data line supplies a signal voltage to the second electrode of the first capacitor via a second switch. A third switch connects the anode of the luminescence element to the second capacitor. A controller supplies the signal voltage to the first capacitor by switching ON the first and second switches when the third switch is OFF, switches OFF the first and second switches to switch ON the third switch, and causes the second capacitor to hold a source potential of the driver while the third switch is ON.
US08018400B2 Plasma display and driving method thereof
A plasma display device (PDP) and method of driving it (during an address period) are provided. Such a PDP has an address electrode for receiving an address pulse and a capacitor. Such an address pulse has states including a first voltage and a smaller second voltage smaller. Such a capacitor stores a third voltage that is between the first and third voltages. Such a method includes: coupling the capacitor to the address electrode via the inductor; firstly energizing, via the inductor, the address electrode with the third voltage stored in the capacitor; secondly energizing the address electrode with the first voltage; thirdly energizing, via the inductor, the capacitor with voltage on the address electrode; and fourthly energizing the address electrode with the second voltage. Real power transfer during the first and third energizations is facilitated via reactive power transfer arising from LC resonance.
US08018399B2 Pixel array
A pixel array includes scan lines extended along a row direction in a zigzag manner, data lines extended along a column direction, and pixels connected the scan lines and the data lines. Each pixel arranged in nth row includes a first sub-pixel and a second sub-pixel. The first sub-pixel includes a first transistor and a first pixel electrode. A first gate electrode and a first drain electrode of the first transistor are respectively connected to the (n+1)th scan line and the first pixel electrode. A second sub-pixel includes a second transistor and a second pixel electrode. A second gate electrode and a second drain electrode of the second transistor are respectively connected to the nth scan line and the second sub-pixel electrode. A first source electrode of the first transistor and a second source electrode of the second transistor are connected to the same data line.
US08018397B2 High dielectric antenna substrate and antenna thereof
A high dielectric antenna substrate includes a first dielectric layer having a first dielectric constant, and a second dielectric layer having a second dielectric constant. The second dielectric layer is formed on one surface of the first dielectric layer. The second dielectric constant is lower than the first dielectric constant. Furthermore, a first metal layer and a second metal layer are optionally formed on the same surface or two surfaces of the first dielectric layer to compose a capacitor.
US08018393B2 Method and system for using a transformer for FM transmit and FM receive functionally
Aspects of a method and system for using a transformer for FM transmit and FM receive functionality may include communicating data-bearing signals via primary windings of a transformer, wherein secondary windings of the transformer may be utilized for receiving and/or transmitting the communicated data-bearing signals, wherein the secondary windings may be utilized as a load for the transmitting. The secondary windings and/or a power amplifier may be biased for the transmitting by applying an electrical signal at a terminal of the secondary windings, wherein the electrical signal that may be applied at the center terminal may be a biasing voltage. The receiving and the transmitting may be operated in time division duplex mode, or simultaneously. DC signal components for the receiving may be blocked by using a plurality of capacitors.
US08018392B2 Antenna element and semiconductor device
An antenna element includes: a radio transceiver that transmits and receives a radio wave; a signal input pad; a ground layer; an antenna that has a connection portion for electrically connecting the radio transceiver to the ground layer and the signal input pad; a silicon substrate on which the antenna is formed; and an insulating film for electrically insulating the silicon substrate from the antenna. The radio transceiver is disposed on a first surface of the silicon substrate with the insulating film interposed therebetween. The ground layer and the signal input pad are disposed on a second surface of the silicon substrate opposite to the first surface thereof with the insulating film interposed therebetween. The connection portion is disposed to penetrate the silicon substrate.
US08018391B2 Plate-shaped antenna having at least three planes
A plate-shaped radiating element of a shape having at least three planes is formed by bending a metal plate having a substantially rectangular shape. A first slit is provided from a lower edge of the plate-shaped radiating element up to a portion in the vicinity of an upper edge of the plate-shaped radiating element while passing through a center point of the plate-shaped radiating element, and forms plate-shaped dipole elements on both sides thereof. A second slit is provided parallel to the upper edge of the plate-shaped radiating element and forms a folded element on an upper side thereof. Feeding points are provided on both sides of the first slit at the lower edge of the plate-shaped radiating element.
US08018389B2 Methods and apparatus for improving the performance of an electronic device having one or more antennas
An electronic device comprising a first conductive unit and a second conductive unit disposed such that a gap exists between the first component and the second component. The electronic device further includes one or more components disposed along the gap and configured to counteract one or more capacitance effects in the gap, wherein at least one of the first conductive unit and the second conductive unit represents a part of an antenna. By counteracting the capacitance effects in the gap, certain radiation attributes of the antenna, such as radiation efficiency, can be improved. The one or more components are also employed to counteract one or more capacitance effects in a slot of a conductive unit in an electronic device.
US08018381B2 Antenna apparatus
An antenna apparatus is disclosed. The antenna apparatus has a first antenna, a second antenna, and a third antenna which have different directivity directions each other and are switched for a desired directivity direction. The first antenna is disposed on a substrate which is in parallel therewith. The second antenna is disposed on one principal surface of the substrate which is nearly perpendicular thereto. The third antenna is disposed on the other principal surface of the substrate which is nearly perpendicular thereto.
US08018371B1 Passive proximity sensor method and apparatus
A passive proximity detection system and method are provided. A transmitted signal, such as a communication signal, is sampled and placed in memory. A version of the transmitted signal, reflected by a target in the vicinity of the transmitting antenna, is sampled and compared to the stored reference sample. Correlation between the reference and reflected samples indicates the presence of a target in the vicinity of the transmitting antenna. Processing of the signals can include frequency shifts to account for Doppler shifts in the reflected energy as a result of a non-zero relative radial velocity of the target. Multiple antennas for receiving reflected energy can be provided to enhance the coverage area of the system, and/or to provide information regarding the relative location of a target. In addition, signals from multiple transmitting antennas can be used as sources of energy for probing the vicinity of those antennas for targets.
US08018369B2 Error correction method and apparatus
A switched current source is provided. The switched current source is generally comprised of transistors and resistors, and the source has a high output impedance. Included with the switched current source is an error correction transistor and a resistor that cooperate to feed a current back through a bias transistor to correct an error that generally results from the current gains or β's of transistors within the switched current source. To accomplish this, however, the resistor is selected to have a value that is sufficiently large such that current from the error correction transistor flows back through the bias transistor.
US08018367B2 N-bit ADC reader
An integrated circuit has a single input pin for determining a value associated with a resistor divider. First circuitry determines a resistor ratio of the resistor divider through the single input pin. A first register stores a first group of bits representing the resistor ratio. The first group of bits represents the least significant bits of the value. Second circuitry determines an equivalent resistance of the resistor divider through the single input pin. A second register stores a second group of bits representing the equivalent resistance.
US08018365B1 Continuous-time delta-sigma ADC with compact structure
A continuous-time delta-sigma Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) with a compact structure comprises a loop filter, a summing circuit, a quantizer, and a current Digital to Analog Converter (DAC). The loop filter is utilized for receiving and noise-shaping an analog input signal, and accordingly outputting a positive and a negative loop voltages. The summing circuit comprises a positive and a negative summing resistors. The summing resistors are utilized for transforming a positive and negative feedback currents to be a positive and a negative feedback voltages, and summing the loop voltages and the feedback voltages so as to generate a positive and a negative summing voltages, respectively. The quantizer is utilized for outputting a digital output signal according to a difference between the positive and the negative summing voltages. The current DAC is utilized for generating the positive and the negative feedback currents according to the digital output signal.
US08018362B2 A/D conversion circuit and test method
An A/D conversion circuit includes a plurality of transmission paths that transmit signal voltages and reference voltages, and an A/D conversion unit that A/D converts voltages output from the transmission paths. Each of the plurality of transmission paths includes a first switch that selectively outputs one of the signal voltage and the reference voltage, an S/H circuit that holds output voltage from the first switch, and a second switch that selectively outputs one of the output voltage from the first switch and output voltage from the S/H circuit.
US08018359B2 Conversion of bit lengths into codes
Various embodiments are provided to reduce a processing time taken when plural bit lengths each assigned to plural strings are converted into plural codes. In one exemplary embodiment, in response to input of the plurality of bit lengths, a number of strings assigned each of the bit lengths, a bit length assigned to each of the strings, and a sequence number of each string in a group of strings assigned each of the bit lengths are recorded. A plurality of base codes are generated on the basis of the numbers of the strings recorded by the recording unit, the base codes each being a code used as a base for codes having the same one of the bit lengths. A plurality of codes is generated by performing in parallel a plurality of processes respectively for the plurality of strings.
US08018352B2 Video traffic monitoring and signaling apparatus
A traffic signal head having a signal lamp or signal ball with an embedded video monitoring system can be provided to perform vehicle detection to inform an intelligent traffic control system. Video monitoring of traffic lanes facing the signal head can be analyzed by such a system to emulate inductive loop signals that are input signals to traffic control systems.
US08018350B2 Devices, systems and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly
Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided, where the assembly includes a clamping assembly having clamping members that at least partially surround an existing traffic signal disconnect hanger, and bar members positioned substantially perpendicular to the clamping members. In certain embodiments, stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly. Also provided are connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example.
US08018348B1 Apparatus for identifying a circuit breaker feeding a remotely disposed electrical outlet and method of using the apparatus
An electrical circuit tracing apparatus wherein uniquely identifiable electrical signals are injected into deenergized electrical circuits at a circuit breaker panel. Once the apparatus is electrically connected to multiple deenergized branch circuits, a user may connect a circuit analysis box to successive electrical outlets. The circuit analysis box contains a readout that indicates the circuit number (i.e., 1-n, where n is the number of branch circuits simultaneously testable by the apparatus to which the particular electrical outlet is connected). If a particular electrical outlet is accidentally connected to more than one branch circuit, all of the circuits to which the analyzer box is connected are identified.
US08018345B2 RFID tags having ferromagnetic patches
RFID tags and devices disclosed herein use ferromagnetic films to store information. The tags include patches of ferromagnetic materials, each patch having a particular ferromagnetic resonance frequency determined by the composition of the ferromagnetic film. When stimulated, the patches emit microwave or RF signals at their resonance frequencies and at intensities proportional to the patch sizes. The signals are read and the frequency spectrum of the tag may be determined by using a FFT. Identity and other information may be provided by the spectrum.
US08018344B2 Wireless communication apparatus and method thereof
A wireless communication method utilizing a wireless communication apparatus is provided. The method includes: providing an antenna unit being used by both a first wireless communication circuit and a second wireless communication circuit, using the first wireless communication circuit for RFID communication via the antenna unit in a first mode, and utilizing the second wireless communication circuit for RFID communication via the antenna unit in a second mode.
US08018337B2 Emergency notification device and system
An audio warning monitoring device, system and method including an audio detector, one or more audio screens to determine if monitored sound is an alarm, a processor or logic device to potentially analyze sound data and then instruct a transmitter to send a message with the monitoring device identification and signals representing sound detected by the audio detector to a server. The computer server analyzes the message and authenticates the audio detector, looks up user data associated with the detector, and contacts a user from previously stored user data in order to notify of the alert and then relay the audio signals in an audio file. At the user's option, the server may contact a staffed or automated monitoring center. Here a human operator may listen to the signals in the audio file and take appropriate action, such as calling the location of the alarm for verification or contacting a professional first responder(s).
US08018336B2 System and method for RFID asset monitor
A system for an asset monitor includes a reader, a tag, and a router. The router actively transmits a location identification to the tag in a coverage area by using a radio frequency (RF). The tag is mounted on an article (or a user). The tag directly sends a signal to the reader or indirectly forwards to the reader via the router when the location identification of the tag is different from a current location identification or the location identification is repeatedly received up to a preset value. The sent signal includes a location identification and a current location identification that are received by the reader to determine the location of the article.
US08018331B2 Multilevel inverter using cascade configuration and control method thereof
A multilevel inverter using a cascade configuration with a device for equally controlling a power factor for each unit cell includes: a master controller, a plurality of power cells connected in series for each of three AC (Alternating Current) phases, a phase shift transformer for supplying a power cell input voltage, a CAN (Controller Area Network) communication network to provide a communication path between the master controller and each power cell, and cell controllers to control output voltages and output frequencies of the respective power cells according to a voltage command and a frequency command from the master controller, each cell controller having a pulse width modulator to generate a pulse width modulation control signal of a variable voltage and a variable frequency to the connected corresponding power cell, wherein each cell controller is configured to calculate a phase difference value of the corresponding power cell according to a preset total number of connected power cells and the floor number (i.e., the serial connection sequence) of the corresponding power cell to thereafter phase-shift a chopping wave by the calculated phase difference value, thereby compensating for the phase differences between each power cell.
US08018329B2 Automated geo-fence boundary configuration and activation
A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.
US08018324B2 Sight-line non contact coupled wireless technology
Control systems and methods are disclosed for controlling operation of movable systems in an automated process with a stationary system having a first control system component and at least one movable system having a second control system component, in which optical or other non-contacting signaling between the stationary and movable systems is used to ascertain whether a movable system is proximate the stationary system, and wireless communications is used to transfer control data between the systems while the non-contacting signal link is maintained.
US08018323B2 RFID sensor device based on pulse-processing
A radio frequency identification device having sensing elements incorporated in the clock generators of its tags, which generate a leading code and an identification code. In the interrogator, the leading code is detected and its pulse width is measured for calculating sensing values and the baud rate in receiving the identification code. No analog to digital converter is needed in digitizing sensing values and only discrete signals exist in sensing signal generation and communication. The tag device is insensitive to variations in its power supply voltage obtained from a continuous wave RF carrier.
US08018318B2 Resistive component and method of manufacturing the same
A resistive component suitable for detecting electric current in a circuit and a method of manufacturing the resistive component are provided. The resistive component includes a carrier, a resistive layer, an electrode unit, an upper oxide layer and a protective layer. The resistive layer comprises copper alloy and is disposed on the carrier. The electrode unit is electrically connected to the resistive layer. The upper oxide layer is disposed on a part of a surface of the resistive layer and includes oxides of the resistive layer. The protective layer covers at least a part of the upper oxide layer.
US08018314B2 Center-tapped transformer
A center-tapped transformer includes tubular first and second spools, a primary winding unit, and first and second secondary winding units. The first spool has a first surrounding wall, a first pin-mounting wall, and a first pin set mounted on the first pin-mounting wall. The second spool has a second surrounding wall, a second pin-mounting wall, and a second pin set mounted on the second pin-mounting wall. The second surrounding wall has an inner diameter larger than an outer diameter of the first surrounding wall. The primary winding unit is wound on one of the first and second surrounding walls. The first and second secondary winding units are wound on the other one of the first and second surrounding walls.
US08018311B2 Microminiature power converter
A microminiature power converter includes a semiconductor substrate on which a semiconductor integrated circuit is formed, and a thin magnetic induction element. The magnetic induction element includes a magnetic insulating substrate having first and second principal planes and a plurality of through-holes. A coil is formed on a central region of the magnetic insulating substrate, and electrodes are formed on the first and second principal planes at peripheral regions of the magnetic insulating substrate, and electrically connected to the magnetic insulating substrate via respective through-holes. Wiring is formed on the first principal plane in the central region of the magnetic insulating substrate and connected to a capacitor. One end of the wiring is connected to one of the electrode electrodes, and an insulator layer is provided between the wiring and the coil.
US08018309B2 Method for improving the efficiency of a power supply device
For improving efficiency of a power device having an exposed surface capable of radiating energy, a shielding layer is disposed in between the exposed surface and a conductive layer. The shielding layer causes at least a portion of the energy to be directed back into the power device, thereby substantially preventing the energy from inducing eddy currents in the conductive layer. The conductive layer is fabricated from a metal foil for compliance with electromagnetic energy leakage regulations.
US08018308B2 Downward type MEMS switch and method for fabricating the same
A downward type micro electro mechanical system (EMS) switch and a method of fabricating the same is provided. The downward type MEMS switch includes first and second cavities formed in a substrate, first and second actuators formed on upper portions of the first and second cavities, first and second fixing lines formed on an upper surface of the substrate and not overlapped with the first and second cavities, and a contact pad which is spaced apart at a predetermined distance from surfaces of the first fixing line and the second fixing line but which can be contacted with the first fixing line and the second fixing line when the first actuator and the second actuator are driven. The contact pad, which is actuated downward by piezoelectricity, is fabricated as it shares a layer with a RF signal line, after the RF signal line is fabricated.
US08018300B2 Band rejection filter capable of reducing harmonics and related satellite signal receiver
A band rejection filter capable of reducing harmonics includes a first signal end, a second signal end, a high pass filter coupled between the first signal end and the second signal end for performing high pass filtering on signals transmitted between the first signal end and the second signal end, and a low pass filter coupled between the first signal end and the second signal end for performing low pass filtering on signals transmitted between the first signal end and the second signal end. The low pass filter includes a plurality of non-magnetic-core inductors coupled in a sequence between the first signal end and the second signal end, and a plurality of capacitors respectively coupled between an intersection of adjacent non-magnetic-core inductors of the plurality of non-magnetic-core inductors and a ground end.
US08018298B2 Acoustic wave device, filter and duplexer
An acoustic wave device includes a first resonator having a piezoelectric substance sandwiched between a pair of electrodes in a direction of an c-axis orientation or a polarization axis, and a second resonator that is connected in series and has another piezoelectric substance sandwiched another pair of electrodes so that one of the another pair of electrodes located in the direction of the c-axis orientation or the polarization axis is at a potential equal to that of one of the pair of electrodes of the first resonator in the direction of the c-axis orientation or the polarization axis.
US08018296B2 Printed circuit board having a plurality of angled differential pairs of transmission lines
A printed circuit board includes a plurality of differential pairs arranged thereon side-by-side. Each differential pair includes two transmission lines. Each transmission line includes a plurality of sections of equal length. Every two adjacent sections in each transmission line meet at an angle, and all angles are equal. The length of each section is determined by dividing the distance between two corresponding angles of the two transmission lines of each differential pair by the cosine of half of the angle.
US08018291B2 Transistor-based micrometric or nanometric resonant device
The resonant device comprises an electromechanical resonator of nanometric or micrometric size that comprises a mobile element and a fixed element. Detection means provide detection signals representative of movement of the mobile element with respect to the fixed element to a feedback loop that is connected to an excitation input of the resonator. The resonator is formed on the same substrate as the detection means and feedback loop. The feedback loop comprises at most first and second transistors connected in series between a reference voltage and the excitation terminal. A capacitive load is connected between the excitation terminal and reference voltage. The detection signals control the conductivity of the first transistor.
US08018290B2 Oscillator, transmitter-receiver and frequency synthesizer
An output terminal 6 is provided at the connecting point 5 between the collector terminal of a transistor 1 and an open-ended stub 4 by connecting the open-ended stub 4 to the collector terminal of the transistor 1, the open-ended stub 4 having a line length equal to a quarter of the wavelength of a signal of frequency 2N·F0 or 2N times the oscillation frequency F0. In addition, an output terminal 9 is provided at a connecting point 8 located at a distance equal to a quarter of the wavelength of a signal of oscillation frequency F0 from the end of an open-ended stub 7 by connecting the open-ended stub 7 to the base terminal of the transistor 1, the open-ended stub 7 having a line length longer than a quarter of the wavelength of the signal of oscillation frequency F0.
US08018289B1 Holdover circuit for phase-lock loop
A clock circuit includes a phase-lock loop and a holdover circuit. The phase-lock loop generates an output clock signal having a constant frequency based on a loop filter voltage of a loop filter in the phase-lock loop. The holdover circuit generates and stores a digital value indicating the loop filter voltage and generates an analog voltage signal having the loop filter voltage indicated by the digital value. Further, the holdover circuit maintains the output clock signal at the constant frequency during a holdover of the phase-lock loop by regenerating the loop filter voltage based on the analog voltage signal. Because the analog voltage signal is based on the digital value, the voltage of the loop filter does not decay over time during the holdover of the phase-lock loop. As a result, the output clock signal remains at the constant frequency during the holdover of the phase-lock loop.
US08018286B2 Low power integrated circuit
The present invention relates to an integrated electrical circuit in particular a receiver or driver suitable for broadband communication, such as optical interconnect. The circuit comprises two amplifiers which share current supply wherein the integrated circuit is arranged so that cross talk via this current supply is avoided over a large range of frequencies.
US08018281B2 Method and device for performing offset cancellation in an amplifier using floating-gate transistors
An operational amplifier including: a differential pair of transistors coupled to a pair of input signals; and a pair of floating-gate transistors coupled to the differential pair of transistors, wherein the pair of floating-gate transistors are operable for reducing an offset voltage of the operational amplifier.
US08018280B2 Thermal regulation of a class-D audio amplifier
A class-D audio amplifier is protected by thermal regulation which decreases the gain of the class-D audio amplifier by asserting an over-temperature signal when the temperature of the class-D audio amplifier is detected to be higher than a threshold. The output of the class-D audio amplifier is therefore reduced by the smaller gain, and the chance for the class-D audio amplifier to stop working due to overheating is greatly reduced.
US08018279B2 Class D amplifier circuit with bi-directional power switch
A Class D amplifier circuit in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes a converter stage operable to provide a desired AC voltage and a Class D amplifier stage, connected to the converter stage. The Class D amplifier stage includes a first bi-directional switch connected to the converter stage, a second bi-directional switch, connected in series with the first bi-directional switch, wherein the first and second bi-directional switches are connected across the desired AC voltage provided by the converter stage and a controller operable to turn the first and second bi-directional switches ON and OFF such that a desired voltage is provided at a midpoint node positioned between the first bi-directional switch and the second bi-directional switch.
US08018270B2 Charge pump circuit
A charge pump circuit includes a first plurality of capacitors, and a first precharge circuit. The first plurality of capacitors are connected in parallel to each other. The first plurality of capacitors receive clock signals to perform sequentially pumping operations which generate a first higher voltage from a power voltage supplied. The first precharge circuit precharges a predetermined number of capacitors in the first plurality of capacitors at the power voltage. The predetermined number is greater than one.
US08018267B2 Frequency conversion mixer
Provided is a frequency conversion mixer. The frequency conversion mixer includes a transconductance stage, a switching stage, a load stage, a current bleeding circuit, and a bias stage. The transconductance stage receives an RF signal, and outputs a current corresponding to a voltage of the RF signal. The switching stage switches the current which is outputted from the transconductance stage in response to a local oscillation signal, for frequency conversion the RF signal into an intermediate frequency (IF) signal. The load stage is connected between the switching stage and a supply voltage terminal. The current bleeding circuit is connected parallel with the switching stage, especially, embodying inverter structure with transconductance stage to get not only current bleeding effect but also current reuse effect, and one resonant inductor for reducing noise which is generated in parasitic capacitance at node between transconductance stage and switching stage. The bias stage is connected between the transconductance stage and a ground terminal, and has the switched biasing technique for allowing not only the stable bias current but also lowering the flicker noise.
US08018258B2 Periodic signal synchronization apparatus, systems, and methods
Apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed that operate to generate a periodic output signal from a periodic input signal, obtain a plurality of samples of a phase difference between the output signal and the input signal, and to adjust a phase of the output signal based on the samples of the phase difference. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.
US08018256B2 Method and system for providing a power-on reset pulse
Provided are a method and system for providing a power-on reset pulse. The system includes a level detector configured to receive an input signal and produce, at least indirectly, a reset signal when the input signal reaches a predetermined level. The system also includes a counter having counting characteristics and configured to receive the reset signal and a clock signal. The counter produces a delayed signal in accordance with the counting characteristics, the clock signal, and the received reset signal.
US08018255B2 DC-DC converter, driver IC, and system in package
A DC-DC converter in which self turn-on can be prevented and can improve power efficiency. In a non-insulated DC-DC converter, self turn-on is prevented by applying a negative voltage between a gate and a source of a low side MOSFET by the use of a capacitor for generating negative voltage when the low side MOSFET is in an OFF state. Also, when the low side MOSFET is in an ON state due to the capacitor for generating negative voltage, a positive voltage applied between the gate and the source of the low side MOSFET does not drop from a voltage of a gate driving DC power source that is supplied from a gate power input terminal. Therefore, the power efficiency is improved.
US08018254B2 Reducing device parasitics in switched circuits
A system and method are provided to reduce the influence of parasitic capacitance at the drain and source of MOS transistors of a sampling circuit. In one embodiment, the bulk is left floating during a first phase and refreshed during a second phase. During the first phase, the effective parasitic contribution of the drain or source of a MOS transistor is lower due to the series combination of Cj and Cw capacitances. In another embodiment, a large resistance provides a path from a reference voltage to the bulk of a MOS transistor, thereby resulting in an effective parasitic capacitance of the series combination of Cj and Cw. Advantageously, the parasitic capacitance is reduced as well as its non-linear effect, the operating speed is improved, as well as the signal distortion and noise.
US08018252B2 Circuit with enhanced mode and normal mode
Circuit with enhanced mode and normal mode is provided and described. In one embodiment, switches are set to a first switch position to operate the circuit in the enhanced mode. In another embodiment, switches are set to a second switch position to operate the circuit in the normal mode.
US08018250B1 Input/output block and operation thereof
An embodiment of a method for operation of an input/output block is disclosed. For this embodiment of the method, a first attribute is set for a first disable signal for an input driver. A first tri-state condition is removed from an output driver. In response to the removing of the first tri-state condition, the input driver is placed in a second tri-state condition.
US08018248B2 Adjustable interface buffer circuit between a programmable logic device and a dedicated device
An integrated circuit includes a programmable logic device, a dedicated device, and an interface circuit between the two. The interface circuit can be easily modified to accommodate the different interface I/O demands of various dedicated devices that may be embedded into the integrated circuit. In one embodiment, the interface circuit may be implemented using a plurality of mask programmable uni-directional interface buffer circuits. The direction of any desired number of the interface buffer circuits can be reversed based on the needs of a desired dedicated device by re-routing the conductors in the interface buffer circuits in a single metal layer of the integrated circuit. In another embodiment, the interface circuit may be implemented using a hardware configurable bi-directional interface buffer circuit.
US08018244B2 Architecture for local programming of quantum processor elements using latching qubits
An architecture for a quantum processor may include a set of superconducting flux qubits operated as computation qubits and a set of superconducting flux qubits operated as latching qubits. Latching qubits may include a first closed superconducting loop with serially coupled superconducting inductors, interrupted by a split junction loop with at least two Josephson junctions; and a clock signal input structure configured to couple clock signals to the split junction loop. Flux-based superconducting shift registers may be formed from latching qubits and sets of dummy latching qubits. The devices may include clock lines to clock signals to latch the latching qubits. Thus, latching qubits may be used to program and configure computation qubits in a quantum processor.
US08018243B2 Measurement signal processing
In order to determine amplitudes of measurement signals originating from an AC power supply and to determine the phase shift (ø) between measurement signals more simply, the measurement signals are processed in measurement signal operation devices to form auxiliary signals each having a constant AC amplitude and to obtain first measurement values (v, a, rssi, rssi1, rssi2), in particular, from amplification factors (v) that are applied to the measurement signal (m, m1, m2). The phase shift between two auxiliary signals (h, h′, h′1, h′2) is further determined as a second measurement value, in particular, by means of the time difference (Δt) between the zero passages of the auxiliary signals (h, h′, h′1, h′2).
US08018242B2 Probe card
A probe card includes probes that are made of a conductive material and come into contact with a semiconductor wafer to receive or output an electric signal; a probe head that holds the probes; a substrate that has a wiring pattern corresponding to a circuit structure for generating a signal for a test; a reinforcing member that reinforces the substrate; an interposer that is stacked on the substrate for connection of wires of the substrate; a space transformer that is stacked between the interposer and the probe head and transforms intervals among the wires; and a plurality of first post members that have a height greater than the thickness of the substrate, and are embedded in a portion of the substrate on which the interposer is stacked.
US08018241B2 Logic applying different bit positions to respective scan paths
An integrated circuit (70) having parallel scan paths (824-842, 924-942) includes a pair or pairs of scan distributor (800,900) and scan collector (844,944) circuits. The scan paths apply stimulus test data to functional circuits (702) on the integrated circuit and receive response test data from the functional circuits. A scan distributor circuit (800) receives serial test data from a peripheral bond pad (802) and distributes it to each parallel scan path. A scan collector circuit (844) collects test data from the parallel scan paths and applies it to a peripheral bond pad (866). This enables more parallel scan paths of shorter length to connect to the functional circuits. The scan distributor and collector circuits can be respectively connected in series to provide parallel connections to more parallel scan paths. Additionally multiplexer circuits (886,890) can selectively connect pairs of scan distributor and collector circuits together. The scan distributor and collector circuits can be formed in core circuits (704). The core circuits then can be connected to other core circuits and functional circuits with simple connections to the parallel scan circuits through the scan distributor and collector circuits.
US08018236B2 Device and method for analyzing defects, particularly for items made of plastics
A device for analyzing defects, particularly for items made of plastics, such as battery casings and the like, comprising at least one probe, which is adapted to be moved closer to, or to come into contact with, the item made of plastics to be tested, the probe being provided with a plurality of elements to which a high voltage is applied.
US08018231B2 Method for sequence determination using NMR
The invention relates to methods for analyzing polysaccharides. In particular, compositional and sequence information about the polysaccharides are derived. Some methods use NMR in conjunction with another experimental method, such as, capillary electrophoretic techniques for the analysis.
US08018225B2 System and method for sensing the periodic position of an object
A system and method for sensing the periodic position of one or more objects, such as rotating blades of a turbine. The system includes a passive eddy current sensing unit having one or more magnets and first and second cores around which first and second coils are wound, respectively, which together generate first and second magnetic fields. The sensing unit is positioned so that the object periodically passes through the first and second magnetic fields in succession, and the first and second coils consequently produce first and second output signals, respectively. Each coil is individually connected to a processing circuitry that receives each of the first and second output signals. The circuitry electronically combines the first and second output signals so that common mode signals thereof electronically subtract from each other to eliminate from output of the circuitry any electromagnetic interference noise present in the first and second output signals.
US08018224B2 Rotation detection sensor
A rotation detection sensor for detecting both rotational position and direction of a rotating body with a gear includes a magnet, multiple magnetic sensors, a rotational position detection circuit, and a rotational direction detection circuit. The magnet produces a magnetic field directed to a gear tooth of the rotating body. When the rotating body rotates, the magnetic sensors output sensor signals shifted in phase from each other. The rotational position detection circuit performs a differential operation on the sensor signals received from at least two magnetic sensors and outputs a rotational position signal. The rotational direction detection circuit outputs a rotational direction signal based on the position signal and the sensor signal received from at least one of the at least two magnetic sensors.
US08018223B2 Position detection utilizing a rotary array of magnetic sensors with irregular spacing between sensing elements
A magnetoresistive sensor system includes a plurality of chip carriers, such that each integrated circuit among the plurality of chip carriers is associated with a respective magnetoresistive sensing components. A plurality of magnetoresistive sensing components can be arranged in a rotary array, wherein each magnetoresistive component among the plurality of magnetoresistive components is associated with a respective integrated circuit among the plurality of chip carriers and wherein the plurality of magnetoresistive sensing components comprises sensing components that are spaced irregular from one another in order to optimize the performance of the rotary array and meet requirements of a particular magnetoresistive sensing application.
US08018216B2 Power supply voltage booster
A power supply voltage booster avoids inadequate step-up capability. In a voltage boosting circuit, a switching device connects and disconnects between the ground potential and one end of the coil, the other end of which is supplied with a supply voltage VB. The switching device is repeatedly turned ON and OFF such that the capacitor is electrically charged from the force in the coil when the switching device is turned off. A charging control circuit turns off the switching device when current flowing through the switching device into the coil is determined to have increased to a switch-off threshold value when the switching device is ON, and turns on the switching device upon determining that the charging current flowing to the capacitor from the coil decreases to a switch-on threshold value when the switching device is OFF. The charging control circuit sets the switch-off threshold value to a larger value as the supply voltage VB is lower. Thus, inadequacy of the step-up capability caused by a drop in the supply voltage VB can be avoided.
US08018213B2 Measuring the current through a load transistor
The measurement of a current through a load transistor is described.
US08018210B2 Voltage converting circuit and method thereof
A voltage converting circuit including a power stage, a filter, a comparator, a first and a second feedback units. The power stage receives an input voltage and outputs the input voltage according to a duty cycle. The filter receives the input voltage to convert the input voltage into a current, and filters the current to obtain an output voltage. The first feedback unit amplifies a difference between a reference voltage and the output voltage to obtain an error voltage. The second feedback unit calculates the quadratic differential and integration of the output voltage to obtain a sensing voltage. The comparator compares the error voltage and the sensing voltage, and outputs a comparing result to adjust a duty ratio. Herein, a ripple of the output voltage is linearly proportional to that of the current, and DC divided voltage level of the output voltage is substantially equal to the reference voltage.
US08018209B2 Switching regulator for fixing frequency
A switching regulator for fixing a frequency which includes a power stage circuit, for receiving an input voltage and outputting an output voltage according to an control signal; a reference voltage generator for generating a reference voltage; a comparator for outputting a comparing result according to the output voltage and the reference voltage; a constant-time trigger circuit for outputting the control signal according to the comparing result and a compensating signal; an a frequency compensator for outputting the compensating signal according to the output voltage and a phase signal; wherein the phase signal is corresponding to the magnitude of the voltage across the lower gate switch of the power stage circuit.
US08018208B1 Error amplification for current mode control switching regulation
A voltage regulator has a switch configured to alternately couple and decouple a voltage source through an inductor to a load, feedback circuitry to generate a feedback current, a current sensor configured to measure the feedback current, and a controller configured to receive the feedback current measurement from the current sensor and, in response thereto, to control a duty cycle of the switch. The feedback circuitry includes an amplifier having a first input configured to receive a desired voltage, a second input, and an output, a capacitor connecting the second input to the output of the amplifier, and a resistor connecting the output of the amplifier and the output terminal such that a feedback current proportional to a difference between the desired voltage and an output voltage at an output terminal flows through the resistor.
US08018206B2 Excitation device for an electric machine
With an aim of minimizing excitation losses in electric machines having electrically excited and displaceable secondary parts, bi-directional inductive transmission of energy is carried out by a rotating inductive transmission device. An associated electronic system for the bi-directional transmission of power and/or energy, is provided. Advantageously, super-conductive inductance is present wherein the flow is introduced. It is possible to excite by supplying energy to the stator and to also de-excite by removing energy without converting the power into heat on the rotor by applying a bipolar tension.
US08018204B2 Compact ultra fast battery charger
Disclosed is a charger device. The charger device includes a housing, defining a volume, that includes a power conversion module to provide output power of between 3-300 W, and a controller configured to determine a current level to direct to one or more rechargeable batteries, and cause the output power to be directed to the one or more rechargeable batteries at a charging current substantially equal to the determined current level. A ratio of the output power directed to the one or more rechargeable batteries and the volume is equal to at least 10 W/in3.
US08018203B2 Control system of secondary battery and hybrid vehicle equipped with the same
A battery model unit includes an electrode reaction model unit based on the Butler_Volmer equation, an electrolyte lithium concentration distribution model unit analyzing a lithium ion concentration distribution in an electrolyte solution by a diffusion equation, an active material lithium concentration distribution model unit analyzing an ion concentration distribution in a solid state of an active material by a diffusion equation, a current/potential distribution model unit for obtaining a potential distribution according to the charge conservation law, a thermal diffusion model unit and a boundary condition setting unit. The boundary condition setting unit (66) sets a boundary condition at an electrode interface such that a reacting weight at the electrode interface is not determined by a difference in material concentration between positions but a deviation from an electrochemically balanced state causes a change with time in lithium concentration at the interface and thus a (time-based) drive power for material transportation. Thereby, an appropriate charge/discharge control can be performed based on the battery model having the appropriately set battery condition.
US08018202B2 Circuit for measuring and controlling differential voltages
The invention relates to circuits for managing differential voltages in series. To individually control the differential voltages of voltage sources in series, there is provided an integrated control circuit for a set of N sources in series. This circuit comprises N discharge control and measurement cells which are each produced in a separate well, insulated from the substrate and from the other wells. The cells are linked to the circuits formed in the substrate by level translation circuits having a part inside the well and a part outside the well. These circuits use transistors withstanding voltages of several tens of volts. The integrated circuits may be cascaded on an SPI bus if one wishes to control a group of k.N sources with k>1.
US08018201B2 Battery charging apparatus
The battery charging apparatus is made with small and low-cost components. It includes a first transistor (T1) with a control input through which the charging current flows into a battery (B) and a current source (T3, T4, R1, R2) for a control current flowing to the control input of the first transistor. The current source sets or adjusts the control current so that the first transistor is non-conducting or blocked and the charging current flowing into the battery is shut off when a predetermined maximum charging voltage is reached at the battery.
US08018191B2 Electric power steering system
A main power supply and an auxiliary power supply for supplying power to a motor are provided. A MOS-FET for supplying power from the main power supply and a MOS-FET for supplying power from the main and auxiliary power supplies are provided. When a phenomenon in which a rotor of a motor is rotated by the going-back force of steered wheels occurs, and voltage VG of power generated by the motor satisfies the relation VG>VB+VC where VB is a voltage of the main power supply and VC is a voltage of the auxiliary power supply, a control circuit and a gate drive circuit turn off both MOS-FETs so as to charge the auxiliary power supply using the voltage VG through a parasitic diode of the MOS-FET.
US08018188B2 Method and device for determining the position of a rotor of a brushless and sensorless electric motor
The invention relates to a method carried out with simple means for determining the position of the rotor in a sensorless and brushless multi-phase electric motor (1) in addition to a device particularly suitable for carrying out said method. According to said method, a phase voltage (Uv) on the clamping side on said motor phase is to be detected after clamping a first motor phase (V) from the reference potentials (UZ,M) of an intermediate circuit (7) during a detection period (TE), via which the detection period (TE) determines a peak value (Uv*) of the detected phase voltage (Uv), the peak values (Uv*) are to be compared to the comparative value (Uc), and a positon signal (SP) is to be produced when the peak value (Uv*) exceeds the comparative value (U0). The comparative value (Uc) is then determined digitally such that it corresponds to the value of the phase voltage (Uv) at a zero crossing of a voltage (UVind) induced in the first motor phase (V) or an increased or lowered value in relation to a predefined correction value (ΔQ).
US08018185B2 Apparatus for carrying out improved control of rotary machine
In an apparatus, a norm setter sets, based on a request torque for a rotary machine and a rotational velocity of a rotor, a norm of a vector of an a output voltage in a two-phase rotating coordinate system defined in the rotor. A phase setter sets, based on a deviation between a generated torque and the request torque, a phase of the vector of the output voltage of the power converter in the two-phase rotating coordinate system. A drive signal determiner determines, based on the norm set by the norm setter and the phase set by the phase setter, a drive signal, and applies the drive signal to a switching member to thereby drive the switching member such that the generated torque is adjusted to the request torque.
US08018182B2 Method and device for an overload detection in hand-guided power tools
The invention relates to a method for detecting an overload in an electric hand tool (10) comprising an electric motor (12), in particular a battery-driven electric hand tool (10). According to the invention, an operating current (iB) of the electric motor (12) is determined, the difference (ID) between the value of the operating current (IB) and at least one stored current value (IG) is determined and a thermal overload of the electric hand tool (10) is deduced from said difference (ID). The invention also relates to a corresponding monitoring device (22).
US08018181B2 Method and apparatus for achieving inherent ignition voltage in operation of a high intensity discharge lamp
A high intensity discharge lamp, such as a high power sodium or metal halide lamp, having an electronic ballast. The electronic ballast may incorporate resonance-based circuitry for achieving an ignition state via a frequency sweeping step, the particular ignition voltage being inherent to the operational state of the high intensity discharge lamp. The operating state of the lamp may be sensed in order to apply power and voltage levels appropriate for steady state operation.
US08018173B2 Ballasts for fluorescent lamps
Circuits are disclosed, for example for driving fluorescent lamps, and such circuits may form part of a ballast. First and second sensing circuits can apply respective signals to a control circuit as a function of an end-of-lamp life condition and of the number of re-strike attempts.
US08018171B1 Multi-function duty cycle modifier
A system and method modify phase delays of a periodic, phase modulated mains voltage to generate at least two independent items of information during each cycle of the periodic input signal. The independent items of information can be generated by, for example, independently modifying leading edge and trailing edge phase delays of each half cycle phase modulated mains voltage. Modifying phase delays for the leading and trailing edges of each half cycle of the phase modulated mains voltage can generate up to four independent items of data. The items of data can be converted into independent control signals to, for example, control drive currents to respective output devices such as light sources to provide multiple items of information per cycle.
US08018170B2 Light emitting diode driving module
An LED driving module suitable to drive a plurality of LED strings in parallel connection is disclosed. The LED driving module includes a voltage converting apparatus, a conduction voltage detecting apparatus, a reference voltage generating apparatus and a current-adjusting apparatus. The voltage converting apparatus produces a driving voltage according to a conduction voltage. The conduction voltage detecting apparatus detects the conducting states of the LED strings for producing a conduction voltage and an enabling signal. The reference voltage generating apparatus generates a first reference voltage according to the enabling signal. The current-adjusting apparatus produces a plurality of driving currents according to the first reference voltage, and the driving currents flow through the LED strings.
US08018169B2 Field emission device
Disclosed is a field emission device. The field emission device includes: an anode substrate including an anode electrode formed on a surface thereof and a fluorescent layer formed on the anode electrode; a cathode substrate disposed opposite to and spaced apart from the anode substrate, and including at least one cathode electrode formed toward the anode substrate and a field emitter formed on each cathode electrode; and a gate substrate having one surface in contact with the cathode substrate, wherein the gate substrate include gate insulators surrounding the field emitters and having a plurality of openings exposing the field emitters, and a plurality of gate electrodes formed on the gate insulators around the openings and electrically isolated from one another. Thus, when the trajectories of the electron beams emitted from the emitters are rapidly changed over time by a voltage difference between the gate electrodes, an electron beam-scanned area can be expanded due to residual images and the electron beam can be more uniformly emitted due to an electron beam scattering effect and a linear beam spreading effect, resulting in improved emission uniformity of the fluorescent layer.
US08018165B2 End-of-lamp life detection circuit
An end of life (EOL) detection circuit for a gas discharge lamp. The circuit includes a comparator for comparing an input voltage to first and second threshold voltages and providing an EOL signal; a sensing circuit for sensing a DC offset in the lamp-voltage during the EOL of the lamp; and a reference voltage setting circuit responsive to the DC offset including a reference diode for setting an adjustable reference voltage as said input voltage to the comparator.
US08018162B2 Surface wave excitation plasma processing system
To sustain uniform generation of plasma constantly over a large area. In the surface wave excitation plasma processing device, a plasma source includes: a microwave generator, a microwave waveguide and a dielectric block; and a plasma source also includes: a microwave generator, a microwave waveguide and a dielectric block. The lid of a chamber is fixed onto the microwave waveguides in parallel, and the dielectric blocks disposed in the chamber. A reflecting plate is disposed between the dielectric blocks so that electromagnetic waves propagating through the dielectric blocks are prevented from advancing into the counterpart dielectric blocks as reflected waves. Consequently, the plasma sources are controlled independently. Furthermore, a side reflector is disposed at outer circumference of each of the dielectric blocks so that a standing waves of the electromagnetic waves propagating through the dielectric blocks is formed thus forming a large area standing wave mode of surface waves uniformly.
US08018160B2 Magnetron having a feature for collecting material lost from a cathode thereof
A magnetron has a cathode, an anode with vanes, and an insulating surface which faces the cathode and receives material from the cathode due to sputtering at the cathode. A conductor enables the resistance of the film so deposited to be measured, giving an indication of the thickness of the film and the lifetime of the magnetron.
US08018156B2 High-pressure discharge lamp having a ceramic discharge vessel
High-pressure discharge lamp having a ceramic discharge vessel, in which two electrodes and a light-emitting filling are contained, wherein capillaries are positioned at the ends of the discharge vessel, in which capillaries leadthroughs are sealed off, which leadthroughs are each connected to an electrode (15) consisting of tungsten. The electrode (15) is in the form of a pin and integrally comprises two parts (25, 26) having different diameters, wherein the first part (25) having a given diameter D1 forms the electrode tip, the second part (26) having a diameter D2 is positioned in the capillary, and the diameter D2 of the second part makes up at least 108% of the diameter D1 of the first part. The total length L of the electrode (15) is split between the first part (25) with a partial length L1 and the second part (26) with a partial length L2 such that L2 makes up approximately 30 to 70% of the total length L, wherein the beginning of the maximum diameter D2 coincides with the beginning of the capillary or deviates therefrom by a maximum of 10% of the length L.
US08018151B2 Quasi-optical LED package structure for increasing color render index and brightness
A quasioptical LED package structure for increasing color render index and brightness includes a substrate unit, a light-emitting unit, a frame unit and a package unit. The light-emitting unit has a first light-emitting module for generating a first color temperature and a second light-emitting module for generating a second color temperature. The frame unit has two annular resin frames surroundingly formed on the top surface of the substrate unit by coating. The two annular resin frames respectively surround the first light-emitting module and the second light-emitting module in order to form two resin position limiting spaces above the substrate unit. The package unit has a first translucent package resin body and a second translucent package resin body both disposed on the substrate unit and respective covering the first light-emitting module and the second light-emitting module.
US08018144B2 Organic light emitting diode and method of fabricating the same
An organic light emitting diode (OLED) and a method of fabricating the same, in which an intermediate layer is formed between a first hole transport layer (HTL) and a second hole transport layer to facilitate supply of current to an emission layer (EML), thereby increasing the luminance and life span of the OLED. The OLED includes a first electrode, a hole injection layer (HIL) disposed on the first electrode, a first hole transport layer disposed on the hole injection layer, an intermediate layer disposed on the first hole transport layer, a second hole transport layer disposed on the intermediate layer, an emission layer disposed on the second hole transport layer, and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer.
US08018139B2 Light source and method of controlling light spectrum of an LED light engine
A light emitting diode (LED) light engine includes a substrate for supporting the LED light engine. Conductive traces are formed over the substrate using a thick film screen printing, physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, electrolytic plating, printed circuit board fabricating, or electroless plating process. The conductive traces include mounting pads. LEDs are mounted to each of the mounting pads for electrical interconnection. The LEDs include red LEDs, green LEDs and blue LEDs. Each of the blue LEDs is at least partially covered with a yellow phosphor coating compound. The concentration of the yellow phosphor coating compound is controlled to allow the emission of blue and yellow spectrum light energy from each blue LED. Emissions of light energy from the red LEDs, green LEDs and blue LEDs are combined to achieve a target correlated color temperature and a target color rendering index for the LED light engine.
US08018138B2 Liquid light-emitting element, light-emitting device, method for making light-emitting device, and light-emitting body
A light-emitting device comprising a pair of baseplates respectively having surfaces facing each other, each surface having an electrode formed thereon, and a light-emitting layer sandwiched between the two baseplates. The light-emitting layer contains an ionic liquid and a light-emitting material dissolved in the ionic liquid. Since the light-emitting device is made without using any organic solvent, it is highly safe, does not deteriorate in emission characteristics, and requires a decreased number of constituent materials.
US08018133B2 Image display apparatus
A display apparatus according to the present invention has a plurality of electroconductive layers outside of an image display area. Mutually adjacent ones of the electroconductive layers are electrically connected by a resistor. The resistor has a first region, and a second region which is more separated from the image display area than the first region. The area of the second region per unit length in the direction separating from the image display area is smaller than the area of the first region.
US08018119B2 Electrostatic induction power generator
An electrostatic induction power generator includes first and second substrates arranged to be opposed to each other, a third substrate arranged between the first and second substrates, first and second electrodes provided on both surfaces of the third substrate respectively, a third electrode provided on a surface of the first substrate; and a fourth electrode provided on a surface of the second substrate.
US08018116B2 Electric motor of parallel cycles
A motor arrangement between the movable body and the commutation system comprising movable body coils assembling, wherein said movable body coils assembling are energized for short periods of time of an electric cycle in order to initiate a movement at the movable body. The current applied to the coils assembling is stopped during a passive phase in order to complete a rotary motion based primarily to the magnetic relation between the static body and the movable body, more particularly the magnetic relation between the coils assembling and the permanent magnets in order to reduce the heat and energy consumption and therefore increasing the motor life.
US08018113B2 AC motor winding pattern
A motor winding arrangement that is capable of delivering relatively flat torque over a wide range of speeds, thus achieving increasing power throughout its operating range, is provided. In a multi-phase, e.g., three-phase, motor utilizing the winding arrangement of the invention, each winding layer corresponds to one phase of the motor and occupies every slot of the stator. The poles for each winding layer consist of concentric and non-overlapping coils.
US08018100B2 Permanent magnet motor having an axially magnetized pull magnet
A permanent magnet motor having an axially magnetized pull magnet consisting of a baseplate on which a stator lamination stack having stator windings is disposed, wherein a hub is disposed opposite the baseplate, the hub being connected to a shaft that is supported with respect to a bearing bush via one or more fluid bearings wherein the hub carries at least one annular rotor magnet that lies radially opposite the stator lamination stack, wherein a pulling device acting in an axial direction and operating under the influence of magnetic tensile forces is disposed in the region between the hub and the stationary part of the motor, wherein the pulling device consists of a permanent magnetic pull magnet on the side of the rotor that interacts magnetically with surfaces on the side of the stator.
US08018094B1 Interim power source
An interim power source includes an energy storage, a switch coupled with the energy storage, and a control circuit coupled with the switch. The switch selects a source of power being delivered out of an output power terminal to an electronic device. The control circuit may cause the switch to select the source of power from at least one of an input power terminal and the energy storage. The input power terminal may include a main power source and a backup or secondary power source.
US08018093B2 Electronic circuit power supply device and electronic circuit
An electronic circuit power supply device configured to selectively apply at least one first voltage or one second voltage to a power supply terminal of the electronic circuit that includes elements for applying to the power supply terminal a voltage variable from a value equal to the first voltage to a value equal to the second voltage and elements designed for selecting application of the second voltage to the power supply terminal when the variable voltage reaches the second voltage.
US08018083B2 HVDC connection of wind turbine
A method and apparatus for connection of a wind driven turbine generator to an HVDC transmission line is provided that does not require transformation of the wind generated AC voltage to a nominal AC distribution grid frequency. An AC output from the turbine generator is increased in level and converted to HVDC for direct application to a HVDC transmission line. The wind turbine generated AC may be first increased in frequency via a matrix converter and then rectified or may be first rectified and increased in level by a high-voltage DC-DC converter circuit and then applied directly to the HVDC transmission line.
US08018082B2 Method and apparatus for controlling a wind turbine
A power system for a wind turbine having a measurement device configured to detect an overfrequency condition within an electrical system and a controller communicatively coupled to the measurement device. The controller is configured to switch the wind turbine between a power generation mode and a power consumption mode based on an existence of a detected overfrequency condition.
US08018078B2 Photo key and method of fabricating semiconductor device using the photo key
A photo key has a plurality of first regions spaced apart from one another on a semiconductor substrate, and a second region surrounding the first regions, and one of the first regions and the second region constitutes a plurality of photo key regions spaced apart from one another. Each of the photo key regions includes a plurality of first conductive patterns spaced apart from one another; and a plurality of second conductive patterns interposed between the first conductive patterns.
US08018077B2 Electromechanical system having a controlled atmosphere, and method of fabricating same
There are many inventions described and illustrated herein. In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a technique of fabricating or manufacturing MEMS having mechanical structures that operate in controlled or predetermined mechanical damping environments. In this regard, the present invention encapsulates the mechanical structures within a chamber, prior to final packaging and/or completion of the MEMS. The environment within the chamber containing and/or housing the mechanical structures provides the predetermined, desired and/or selected mechanical damping. The parameters of the encapsulated fluid (for example, the gas pressure) in which the mechanical structures are to operate are controlled, selected and/or designed to provide a desired and/or predetermined operating environment.
US08018070B2 Semiconductor device, method for manufacturing semiconductor devices and mask systems used in the manufacturing of semiconductor devices
Semiconductor device with a first structure comprising a plurality of at least in part parallel linear structures, a second structure comprising a plurality of pad structures, forming at least in part one of the group of linear structure, curved structure, piecewise linear structure and piecewise curved structure which is positioned at an angle to the first structure, and the plurality of pad structures are intersecting at least one of the linear structures in the first structure. An electronic device with at least one semiconductor device, methods for manufacturing a semiconductor device and a mask system are also covered.
US08018069B2 Through-hole contacts in a semiconductor device
Devices with conductive through-waver vias. In one embodiment, the device is formed by a method comprising providing a layer of semiconducting material, forming a layer of metal on a first side of the layer of semiconducting material, forming an opening in the layer of semiconducting material to thereby expose a portion of the layer of metal, the opening extending from at least a second side of the layer of semiconducting material to the layer of metal, and performing a deposition process to form a conductive contact in the opening using the exposed portion of the metal layer as a seed layer.
US08018066B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
Even when a stiffener is omitted, the semiconductor device which can prevent the generation of twist and distortion of a wiring substrate is obtained.As for a semiconductor device which has a wiring substrate, a semiconductor chip by which the flip chip bond was made to the wiring substrate, and a heat spreader adhered to the back surface of the semiconductor chip, and which omitted the stiffener for reinforcing a wiring substrate and maintaining the surface smoothness of a heat spreader, a wiring substrate has a plurality of insulating substrates in which a through hole whose diameter differs, respectively was formed, and each insulating substrate contains a glass cloth.
US08018064B2 Arrangement including a semiconductor device and a connecting element
An integrated circuit and an arrangement including a semiconductor device and a connecting element and method for producing such an arrangement is disclosed. One embodiment provides a semiconductor element having a first contact face and a second contact face. The first contact face and the second contact face extend in a first lateral direction. An electrically conductive connecting element which has a third contact face electrically contacts the semiconductor element. The connecting element includes a trench system. A first trench of this trench system extends from the third contact face into the connecting element.
US08018060B2 Post passivation interconnection process and structures
A system and method for forming post passivation metal structures is described. Metal interconnections and high quality electrical components, such as inductors, transformers, capacitors, or resistors are formed on a layer of passivation, or on a thick layer of polymer over a passivation layer.
US08018057B2 Semiconductor device with resin layers and wirings and method for manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device includes: a semiconductor substrate that has an integrated circuit and an electrode electrically connected to the integrated circuit; a first resin layer that is formed in a first region overlapping the integrated circuit over a surface of the semiconductor substrate where the electrode is formed; a wiring that is electrically connected to the electrode and is formed on the first resin layer; and a second resin layer that is formed on the surface of the semiconductor substrate in a second region surrounding the first region, is the second resin layer being spaced a distance from the first resin layer.
US08018056B2 Package for high power density devices
A semiconductor device package is formed of DBC in which thinned MOSgated and/or diode die are soldered to the bottom of an etched depression in the upper conductive layer. A via in the insulation layer of the DBC is filled with a conductive material to form a resistive shunt. Plural packages may be formed in a DBC card and may be separated individually or in clusters. The individual packages are mounted in various arrays on a support DBC board and heat sink. Integrated circuits may be mounted on the assembly and connected to the die for control of the die conduction.
US08018054B2 Semiconductor die package including multiple semiconductor dice
A semiconductor die package. The semiconductor die package includes a leadframe structure comprising a first die attach pad, and a second die attach pad laterally spaced from the first die attach pad, a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. The semiconductor die package further includes a first semiconductor die attached the first die attach pad at the first side of the leadframe structure, and a second semiconductor die attached to the second die attach pad at the second side of the leadframe structure. The semiconductor die package further includes a housing material covering at least a portion of the leadframe structure, the first semiconductor die, and the second semiconductor die.
US08018052B2 Integrated circuit package system with side substrate having a top layer
An integrated circuit package system comprising: providing a package substrate; attaching an integrated circuit over the package substrate; and attaching a side substrate adjacent the integrated circuit over the package substrate.
US08018048B2 Semiconductor device
The semiconductor device includes a plurality of semiconductor chips, and a circuit substrate having a substantially rectangular outer shape. The semiconductor device is an MCM having an MCM packaging structure in which the plurality of semiconductor chips are juxtaposed on the semiconductor chip mounting surface of the circuit substrate, and the semiconductor chip mounting surface is covered by a sealing resin along an outer edge of the circuit substrate so that the plurality of semiconductor chips are sealed. The thickness of the semiconductor chip to be mounted so as to traverse a center line has a thicker thickness in a direction perpendicular to the semiconductor chip mounting surface than the thickness of any of the other semiconductor chips which is mounted on the semiconductor chip mounting surface, the center line being defined an intersection of (i) a longitudinal cross section which divides the semiconductor chip mounting surface into two in a longitudinal direction of the semiconductor chip mounting surface and (ii) a transverse cross section which divides the semiconductor chip mounting surface into two in a transverse direction of the semiconductor chip mounting surface. This enables to suppress the warpage generated in the semiconductor device, and to reduce inadequate connection occurred due to the warpage in the semiconductor device.
US08018046B2 Printed wiring board with notched conductive traces
A printed wiring board including a core substrate, a build-up layer formed over the core substrate and including a first insulating layer, a conductor layer formed over the first insulating layer, and a second insulating layer formed over the conductor layer, and one or more wiring patterns formed over the first insulating layer. The conductor layer includes conductor portions, and the conductor portions have notched portions, respectively, facing each other across the wiring pattern.
US08018045B2 Printed circuit board
The present invention has for its object to provide a multilayer printed circuit board which is very satisfactory in facture toughness, dielectric constant, adhesion and processability, among other characteristics. The present invention is directed to a multilayer printed circuit board comprising a substrate board, a resin insulating layer formed on said board and a conductor circuit constructed on said resin insulating layer, wherein said resin insulating layer comprises a polyolefin resin.
US08018040B2 Shielded stacked integrated circuit packaging system and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of a shielded stacked integrated circuit packaging system includes forming a first integrated circuit structure having a first substrate and a first integrated circuit die; mounting a shield over the first substrate and the first integrated circuit die; mounting a second integrated circuit structure having a second substrate and a second integrated circuit die over the shield; and forming a package encapsulation for covering the first integrated circuit die, the shield, and the second integrated circuit structure.
US08018036B2 Ultra-thin quad flat no-lead (QFN) package
An ultra-thin Quad Flat No-Lead (QFN) semiconductor chip package having a leadframe with lead terminals formed by recesses from both the top and bottom surfaces and substantially aligned contact areas formed on either the top or bottom surfaces. A die is electrically connected to the plurality of lead terminals and a molding compound encapsulates the leadframe and die together so as to form the ultra-thin QFN package. Accordingly, the substantially aligned contact areas are exposed on both the top and bottom surfaces of the package. The present disclosure also provides an ultra-thin Optical Quad Flat No-Lead (OQFN) semiconductor chip package, a stacked semiconductor module comprising at least two QFN semiconductor chip packages, and a method for manufacturing an ultra-thin Quad Flat No-Lead (QFN) semiconductor packages.
US08018025B2 Nonvolatile memory cell comprising a reduced height vertical diode
A nonvolatile memory cell includes: a rail-shaped first conductor formed at a first height above a substrate; a rail-shaped second conductor formed above the first conductor; and a vertically oriented first pillar comprising a p-i-n first diode; wherein the first pillar is disposed between the second conductor and the first conductor; wherein the first diode comprises an intrinsic or lightly doped region; and wherein the intrinsic or lightly doped region has a first thickness of about 300 angstroms or greater. Numerous additional aspects are provided.
US08018023B2 Trench sidewall protection by a carbon-rich layer in a semiconductor device
When forming a trench in a porous low-K dielectric (such as an ILD) of a semiconductor device, a carbon-rich layer is formed in the sidewalls of the trench during trench etching. This carbon-rich layer may protect the trench from being excessively etched, which would otherwise form an undesirable hardmask undercut. The carbon-rich layer may be formed simultaneously with and during the etching process, by increasing the amount of carbon available to be absorbed by the ILD during the trench etching process. The existence of the extra available carbon may slow the etching of the carbon-enriched regions of the dielectric.
US08018020B2 Schottky barrier diode and manufacturing method thereof
The invention provides a Schottky barrier diode in which a forward voltage is low, a backward leakage current is small, and a withstanding voltage of an element is high, by improving both the forward voltage VF and the backward leakage current IR. A Schottky barrier diode of the invention includes a semiconductor substrate whose surface is provided with a semiconductor layer of first conduction type, a plurality of semiconductor layers of second conduction type provided as junction barriers at a predetermined depth from the surface of the semiconductor layer of first conduction type, an annular shape guard ring comprised of a semiconductor layer of second conduction type to surround the semiconductor layer of second conduction type on the surface of the semiconductor layer of first conduction type, and a metal layer disposed so as to contact the semiconductor layer of first conduction type and the semiconductor layer of second conduction type. In this Schottky barrier diode, a width of a depletion layer is determined such that an inside of the junction barrier is filled with the depletion layer upon application of a voltage.
US08018019B2 Space-charge-free semiconductor and method
A semiconductor having a an n-type material and a p-type material, wherein the n-type material and p-type material are joined to form a space-charge-free p-n junction. The energy of the Fermi-level of the n-type material is equal to the energy of the Fermi-level of the p-type material. This allows for the pre-alignment of the Fermi-levels of the n-type and the p-type materials. The semiconductor has minimal or no g-r noise. The semiconductor can be operated at TBLIP in the range of about 220° to about 240° K.
US08018016B2 Back-illuminated image sensors having both frontside and backside photodetectors
A back-illuminated image sensor includes a sensor layer of a first conductivity type having a frontside and a backside opposite the frontside. An insulating layer is disposed over the backside. A circuit layer is formed adjacent to the frontside such that the sensor layer is positioned between the circuit layer and the insulating layer. One or more frontside regions of a second conductivity type are formed in at least a portion of the frontside of the sensor layer. A backside region of the second conductivity type is formed in the backside of the sensor layer. A plurality of frontside photodetectors of the first conductivity type is disposed in the sensor layer. A distinct plurality of backside photodetectors of the first conductivity type separate from the plurality of frontside photodetectors is formed in the sensor layer contiguous to portions of the backside region of the second conductivity type.
US08018014B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device according to the present invention includes a semiconductor substrate: a photodiode responsive to a light, which is formed in the semiconductor substrate; at least an interlayer insulating layer formed over the semiconductor substrate, the at least an interlayer insulating layer comprising an upper most insulating layer; at least a conductive wiring layer, comprising an upper most conductive wiring layer formed on the upper most insulating layer; and a first passivation layer formed over the upper-most conductive wiring layer. The upper-most wiring layer is not formed directly above the photodiode. The first passivation layer is made of a permeability-resist material and is not formed directly above the photodiode.
US08018013B2 Pixel structure and method for manufacturing thereof
A pixel structure including a scan line, a data line, an active device, a shielding electrode, and a pixel electrode is provided on a substrate. The data line includes an upper conductive wire and a bottom conductive wire. The upper conductive wire is disposed over and across the scan line. The bottom conductive wire is electrically connected to the upper conductive wire. The active device is electrically connected to the scan line and the upper conductive wire. The shielding electrode is disposed over the bottom conductive wire. The pixel electrode disposed over the shielding electrode is electrically connected to the active device. In addition, parts of the pixel electrode and parts of the shielding electrode form a storage capacitor.
US08018012B2 Solid-state image sensor and manufacturing method thereof
A solid-state image sensor includes: a photoelectric conversion region formed in an upper part of a semiconductor substrate, for generating charges by photoelectric conversion; a transfer region formed in the upper part of the semiconductor substrate and located on a side of the photoelectric conversion region, for transferring the charges; and a transfer electrode formed over the semiconductor substrate and located above the transfer region. The solid-state image sensor further includes: a first insulating film which covers the photoelectric conversion region and the transfer electrode; an antireflection film which covers the first insulating film; and a first light-shielding film which is formed on the antireflection film and covers at least the transfer electrode. The antireflection film and the first light-shielding film have an opening above the transfer electrode.
US08018004B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor device comprises a first MIS transistor and a second MIS transistor. The first MIS transistor includes a first gate insulating film formed on a first active region, and a first gate electrode formed on the first gate insulating film. The second MIS transistor includes a second gate insulating film formed on a second active region and made of an insulating material different from that of the first gate insulating film, and a second gate electrode formed on the second gate insulating film. Upper regions of the first gate electrode and the second gate electrode are electrically connected to each other on the isolation region located between the first active region and the second active region, and lower regions thereof are separated from each other with a sidewall insulating film made of the same insulating material as that of the first gate insulating film being interposed therebetween.
US08018003B2 Leakage power reduction in CMOS circuits
A field effect transistor includes a source region and a drain region in contact with a channel region. The source and drain regions are formed in insulating pockets that cause the source and drain regions to be electrically isolated from the substrate, thereby minimizing junction capacitance and device crosstalk. The structures that define the insulating pockets can be insulating layers formed in one or more wells in the substrate, or can be a blanket insulating formed over the substrate in which a well is formed to contain the transistor.
US08018002B2 Field effect resistor for ESD protection
An electrostatic discharge protection device and methodology are provided for protecting semiconductor devices against electrostatic discharge events by temporarily forming during normal (non-ESD) operation two more inversion layers (112, 113) in a first well region (104) that is disposed between anode and cathode regions (105, 106) in response to one or more bias voltages (G1, G2) that are close to Vdd in order to reduce leakage current and capacitance during normal operation (non-ESD) condition. During an electrostatic discharge event, the bias voltages can be removed (e.g., decoupled or set to 0V) to eliminate the inversion layers, thereby forming a semiconductor resistor for shunting the ESD current.
US08018001B2 Semiconductor device
A breakdown voltage of a clamp diode can be reduced while a leakage current is suppressed. A P− type diffusion layer is formed in a surface of an N− type semiconductor layer. An N+ type diffusion layer is formed in a surface of the P− type diffusion layer. A P+ type diffusion layer is formed adjacent the N+ type diffusion layer in the surface of the P− type diffusion layer. An N+ type diffusion layer is formed adjacent the P− type diffusion layer in the surface of the N− type semiconductor layer. There is formed a cathode electrode, which is electrically connected with the N+ type diffusion layer through a contact hole formed in an insulation film on the N+ type diffusion layer. There is formed a wiring (an anode electrode) connecting between the P+ type diffusion layer and the N+ type diffusion layer through a contact hole formed in the insulation film on the P+ type diffusion layer and a contact hole formed in the insulation film on the N+ type diffusion layer.
US08018000B2 Electrostatic discharge protection pattern for high voltage applications
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection in high voltage semiconductor devices is disclosed that provides enhanced current isolation between transistor drains or sources by creating an isolation island surrounding the drains or sources. This isolation island can be a higher-doped region within which the drain/source lies. The junction between the higher doping of this island region and the surrounding substrates operates to limit the amount of current that passes through the drain/source. Additionally, oxide features may be used to create an island surrounding the drain/source contact. Again, this isolating effect makes the amount of current passing through the device more uniform, which protects the device from damage due to an ESD event.
US08017998B1 Gettering contaminants for integrated circuits formed on a silicon-on-insulator structure
Gettering contaminants for formation of integrated circuits on a semiconductor-on-insulator structure is described. A semiconductor-on-insulator structure is configured to attract contaminants. Contaminant attractor regions are formed using ion implantation into a semiconductor layer of the semiconductor-on-insulator structure. The semiconductor layer is located above a buried insulator layer of the semiconductor-on-insulator structure. The contaminant attractor regions are spaced away from active regions. Tiles are located on an upper surface of the buried insulator layer. The contaminant attractor regions are formed adjacent to, in close proximity to, or in the tiles. At least one dielectric layer laterally adjacent to the tiles and is disposed on the upper surface of the buried insulator layer. The at least one dielectric layer at least inhibits lateral migration of contaminants to the active regions.
US08017997B2 Vertical metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor using gate stack, gate spacer and contact via
A semiconductor structure including a vertical metal-insulator-metal capacitor, and a method for fabricating the semiconductor structure including the vertical metal-insulator-metal capacitor, each use structural components from a dummy metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor located and formed over an isolation region located over a semiconductor substrate. The dummy metal oxide field effect transistor may be formed simultaneously with a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor located over a semiconductor substrate that includes the isolation region. The metal-insulator-metal capacitor uses a gate as a capacitor plate, a uniform thickness gate spacer as a gate dielectric and a contact via as another capacitor plate. The uniform thickness gate spacer may include a conductor layer for enhanced capacitance. A mirrored metal-insulator-metal capacitor structure that uses a single contact via may also be used for enhanced capacitance.
US08017990B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device and method of fabricating the same
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device includes a gate insulating film formed on a semiconductor substrate, a first gate electrode corresponding to a memory cell transistor and a second gate electrode. The first gate electrode includes a floating gate electrode film, a first interelectrode insulating film and a control gate electrode film. The floating gate electrode film has a polycrystalline silicon film and the control gate electrode film having a silicide film. The second gate electrode includes a lower electrode film, a second interelectrode insulating film and an upper electrode film. The second interelectrode insulating film includes an opening. The lower electrode film includes a void below the opening of the second interelectrode insulating film. The upper electrode film includes a silicide film. The lower electrode film includes a polycrystalline silicon film and a silicide film which is located between the opening and the void.
US08017987B2 Semiconductor memory device and method for manufacturing the same
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a semiconductor memory device including: a semiconductor substrate having: first device regions divided by first isolation films and second device regions divided by second isolation films a gate insulating film formed on the semiconductor substrate; a first element including: a first gate formed on the gate insulating film in the first device regions, a first inter-electrode insulating film formed on the first gate and on the first isolation films, and a second gate formed on the first inter-electrode insulating film; and a second element including: a third gate formed on the gate insulating film in the second device regions, and a fourth gate formed on the third gate and on the second isolation films; wherein a thickness of the third gate is larger than a thickness of the first gate.
US08017983B2 Solid-state imaging device
In each photosensitive cell, a photodiode 101, a transfer gate 102, a floating diffusion layer section 103, an amplifier transistor 104, and a reset transistor 105 are formed in one active region surrounded by a device isolation region. The floating diffusion layer section 103 included in one photosensitive cell is connected not to the amplifier transistor 104 included in that cell but to the gate of the amplifier transistor 104 included in another photosensitive cell adjacent to the one photosensitive cell in the column direction. A polysilicon wire 111 connects the transfer gates 102 arranged in the same row, and a polysilicon wire 112 connects the reset transistors 105 arranged in the same row. For connection in the row direction, only polysilicon wires are used.
US08017976B2 Barrier for doped molybdenum targets
A sputtering target, including a sputtering layer and a support structure. The sputtering layer includes an alkali-containing transition metal. The support structure includes a second material that does not negatively impact the performance of a copper indium selenide (CIS) based semiconductor absorber layer of a solar cell. The sputtering layer directly contacts the second material.
US08017975B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device and manufacturing method satisfies both of the trade-off characteristic advantages of the HBT and the HFET. The semiconductor device is an HBT and HFET integrated circuit. The HBT includes a sub-collector layer, a GaAs collector layer, a GaAs base layer, and an InGaP emitter layer that are sequentially stacked. The sub-collector layer includes a GaAs external sub-collector region, and a GaAs internal sub-collector region disposed on the GaAs external sub-collector region. A mesa-shaped collector part and a collector electrode are separately formed on the GaAs external sub-collector region. The HFET includes a GaAs cap layer, a source electrode, and a drain electrode. The GaAs cap layer includes a portion of the GaAs external sub-collector region. The source electrode and the drain electrode are formed on the GaAs cap layer.
US08017969B2 LED chip package structure with high-efficiency light emission by rough surfaces and method of making the same
An LED chip package structure with high-efficiency light emission by rough surfaces includes a substrate unit, a light-emitting unit, and a package colloid unit. The substrate unit has a substrate body, and a positive electrode trace and a negative electrode trace respectively formed on the substrate body. The light-emitting unit has a plurality of LED chips arranged on the substrate body. Each LED chip has a positive electrode side and a negative electrode side respectively and electrically connected with the positive electrode trace and the negative electrode trace of the substrate unit. The package colloid unit has a plurality of package colloids respectively covering the LED chips. Each package colloid has a cambered colloid surface and a light-emitting colloid surface respectively formed on its top surface and a lateral surface thereof.
US08017966B2 Light-emitting module of vehicular lamp
A light-emitting module includes a semiconductor light-emitting element with a generally oblong shape, and a planar electrode formed on a surface of the semiconductor light-emitting element. The planar electrode has a generally right triangular electrode portion that is defined by an oblique cut-off line on any one of four corners of the semiconductor light-emitting element. The planar electrode is formed with a wire bonding portion that establishes a current-carrying connection with the generally right triangular electrode portion.
US08017962B2 Light-emitting diode apparatus and manufacturing method thereof
A light-emitting diode (LED) apparatus includes a thermoconductive substrate, a thermoconductive adhesive layer, an epitaxial layer, a current spreading layer and a micro- or nano-roughing structure. The thermoconductive adhesive layer is disposed on the thermoconductive substrate. The epitaxial layer is disposed opposite to the thermoconductive adhesive layer and has a first semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second semiconductor layer. The current spreading layer is disposed between the second semiconductor layer of the epitaxial layer and the thermoconductive adhesive layer. The micro- or nano-roughing structure is disposed on the first semiconductor layer of the epitaxial layer. In addition, a manufacturing method of the LED apparatus is also disclosed.
US08017961B2 Light emitting device and phosphor of alkaline earth sulfide therefor
The present invention relates to a light emitting device comprising a light emitting diode for emitting blue light or ultraviolet rays, and at least one orthosilicate based phosphor for emitting light in a green to yellow region and an alkaline earth metal sulfide based phosphor for emitting light in a red region which are installed above the light emitting diode.According to the light emitting device of the present invention, white light with a continuous spectrum ranging from green to red can be implemented such that more excellent color rendering and color reproducibility can be obtained. Therefore, the light emitting device of the present invention can used in an liquid crystal display backlight unit as well as a general lighting source and flash light source.
US08017959B2 Light source and liquid crystal display device using the same
A widely applicable and low cost module substrate with a high accuracy, reliability and heat-radiation structure. A light source includes: a heat radiation substrate; an insulating layer formed in some regions in an upper surface of the substrate; a wiring layer having wiring patterns, the wiring layer being arranged on the insulating layer; and a plurality of LED elements connected to the wiring layer. Moreover, the light source includes: a heat radiation substrate; an insulating layer arranged in some regions in an upper surface of the substrate; a wiring layer having wiring patterns, the wiring layer being arranged on the insulating layer; and LED elements connected to the wiring layer, wherein the insulating layer has two layers of a resin layer arranged in the wiring layer side and an adhesive layer arranged in the heat radiation substrate side.
US08017956B2 Semiconductor light emitting device
A wiring electrode is provided on a mount substrate. A light emitting element is provided on the wiring electrode to connect electrically with the wiring electrode and is configured to emit a blue to ultraviolet light. A reflective film is provided above the light emitting element to cover the light emitting element so that a space is interposed between the reflective film and the light emitting element. The reflective film is capable of transmitting the blue to ultraviolet light. A fluorescent material layer is provided above the light emitting element to cover the light emitting element so that the reflective film is located between the fluorescent material layer and the light emitting element. A light from the fluorescent material layer is reflected by the reflective film.
US08017955B2 Composite LED modules
A composite multi-color light emitting diode device includes a first light emitting diode unit and a second light emitting diode unit that is arranged on top of the first light emitting diode unit for emitting two different wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. A third light emitting diode unit may be arranged on top of the second light emitting diode unit, thereby providing a stack of three light emitting diode units. Alternatively, the third light emitting diode unit may be arranged on the first light emitting diode unit, thereby providing two light emitting diode units side-by-side on top of the first light emitting diode unit.
US08017948B2 Electric device
There is provided an electric device which can prevent a deterioration in a frequency characteristic due to a large electric power external switch connected to an opposite electrode and can prevent a decrease in the number of gradations. The electric device includes a plurality of source signal lines, a plurality of gate signal lines, a plurality of power source supply lines, a plurality of power source control lines, and a plurality of pixels. Each of the plurality of pixels includes a switching TFT, an EL driving TFT, a power source controlling TFT, and an EL element, and the power source controlling TFT controls a potential difference between a cathode and an anode of the EL element.
US08017947B2 Thin film transistor array panel, display device including the same, and method thereof
A thin film transistor (“TFT”) array panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a substrate, a first storage electrode formed on the substrate, a first TFT formed on the substrate and separated from the first storage electrode, a first insulating layer formed on the first storage electrode and the first TFT and having a first opening disposed on the first storage electrode, a pixel electrode connected to the first TFT and overlapping the first storage electrode in the first opening, and a second insulating layer disposed between the first storage electrode and the pixel electrode in the first opening, wherein at least a portion of the boundary of the pixel electrode overlaps the first storage electrode and is disposed in the first opening. Accordingly, storage appropriate capacitance is ensured and a reduction of the aperture ratio may be decreased.
US08017946B2 Thin film transistor having microcrystalline semiconductor layer and amorphous semiconductor layer
The present invention relates to a semiconductor device including a thin film transistor comprising a microcrystalline semiconductor which forms a channel formation region and includes an acceptor impurity element, and to a manufacturing method thereof. A gate electrode, a gate insulating film formed over the gate electrode, a first semiconductor layer which is formed over the gate insulating film and is formed of a microcrystalline semiconductor, a second semiconductor layer which is formed over the first semiconductor layer and includes an amorphous semiconductor, and a source region and a drain region which are formed over the second semiconductor layer are provided in the thin film transistor. A channel is formed in the first semiconductor layer when the thin film transistor is placed in an on state.
US08017944B2 Electronic device with light emission for a display
There is provided an electronic device in which the deterioration of the device is prevented and an aperture ratio is improved without using a black mask and without increasing the number of masks. In the electronic device, a first electrode (113) is disposed on another layer different from the layer on which a gate wiring (145) is disposed as a gate electrode, and a semiconductor layer of a pixel switching TFT is superimposed on the gate wiring (145) so as to be shielded from a light. Thus, the deterioration of the TFT is suppressed, and a high aperture ratio is realized.
US08017939B2 Organic memory device including a metallic nanoparticle monolayer
The present disclosure relates to an organic memory device and a fabrication method thereof. The organic memory device comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, and an organic memory layer situated between the electrodes, wherein a metallic nanoparticle layer is further situated between the first electrode and the organic memory layer. Since the organic memory device may be operated using only positive voltages, a 1D1R device composed of one diode and one resistor can be realized and a passive matrix can be realized due to the 1D1R structure. Accordingly, the organic memory device enables higher integration, ultrahigh speeds, larger capacities, lower power consumption, and/or lower prices.
US08017934B2 Carbon nanotube based integrated semiconductor circuit
Gate electrodes are formed on a semiconducting carbon nanotube, followed by deposition and patterning of a hole-inducing material layer and an electron inducing material layer on the carbon nanotube according to the pattern of a one dimensional circuit layout. Electrical isolation may be provided by cutting a portion of the carbon nanotube, forming a reverse biased junction of a hole-induced region and an electron-induced region of the carbon nanotube, or electrically biasing a region through a dielectric layer between two device regions of the carbon nanotube. The carbon nanotubes may be arranged such that hole-inducing material layer and electron-inducing material layer may be assigned to each carbon nanotube to form periodic structures such as a static random access memory (SRAM) array.
US08017931B2 LED and fabrication method thereof
Disclosed is a quantum-dot LED and fabrication method thereof. The quantum-dot LED includes: a substrate; a n-type semiconductor layer formed on the substrate; an insulator layer formed on the n-type semiconductor layer and provided with a plurality of holes; quantum dots formed by filling the holes; and a p-type semiconductor layer formed on the insulator layer in which the quantum dots are formed. According to the inventive LED, the size and density of the quantum dots are controllable to thereby make the property control of the LED easy. Also, since it can be anticipated that the LED has a high internal quantum efficiency compared with the conventional LED using quantum well, high light emitting efficiency can be obtained.
US08017929B2 Phase change material layers and phase change memory devices including the same
A phase change material layer includes antimony (Sb) and at least one of indium (In) and gallium (Ga). A phase change memory device includes a storage node including a phase change material layer and a switching device connected to the storage node. The phase change material layer includes Sb and at least one of In and Ga.
US08017928B2 LED fluorometer with remote detection capability
A fluorometer comprising an excitation system including an excitation source for producing excitation light capable of causing fluorescence in fluorescent material; and a detection system for detecting said fluorescence. The excitation source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) associated with means for causing said excitation light to form a beam that projects, during use, from the fluorometer. In one embodiment, the excitation system and the detection system are located in respective separate housings, the angular disposition between the housings being adjustable. In other embodiments, the excitation system and the detection system are located in the same housing. The fluorometer is particularly suited for use in detecting leaks in aqueous environments, especially when mounted on an underwater vehicle.
US08017921B2 Apparatus for irradiation of fluid with electromagnetic radiation and method for the same
An apparatus and method for irradiation of fluid with electromagnetic radiation, and in particular to an apparatus and method for irradiation of blood or other body fluids with ultraviolet radiation is provided. The apparatus (1) comprises a housing (2) having disposed therein at least one mount (6) adapted for receiving an ultraviolet radiation source (7) and at least one holder (8) adapted for receiving a container of the fluid. The housing (2) is adapted for operability between a first position, wherein the container (9) may be placed in the holder (8) and a second position, wherein the housing (2) may form a capsule. The apparatus further comprises a control assembly for powering the ultraviolet radiation source (7). At least a portion of the inner surface of the housing (2) is capable of reflecting the ultraviolet radiation.
US08017917B2 Ionizing radiation sensor
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, an ionizing radiation sensor having a first scintillator for generating photons from incoming ionizing radiation, an imaging intensifier for amplifying the photons, and an electron-multiplying charge-coupled device (EMCCD) coupled to the imaging intensifier for sensing the amplified photons generated by the imaging intensifier. Additional embodiments are disclosed.
US08017916B1 Imaging system for cardiac planar imaging using a dedicated dual-head gamma camera
A cardiac imaging system employing dual gamma imaging heads co-registered with one another to provide two dynamic simultaneous views of the heart sector of a patient torso. A first gamma imaging head is positioned in a first orientation with respect to the heart sector and a second gamma imaging head is positioned in a second orientation with respect to the heart sector. An adjustment arrangement is capable of adjusting the distance between the separate imaging heads and the angle between the heads. With the angle between the imaging heads set to 180 degrees and operating in a range of 140-159 keV and at a rate of up to 500kHz, the imaging heads are co-registered to produce simultaneous dynamic recording of two stereotactic views of the heart. The use of co-registered imaging heads maximizes the uniformity of detection sensitivity of blood flow in and around the heart over the whole heart volume and minimizes radiation absorption effects. A normalization/image fusion technique is implemented pixel-by-corresponding pixel to increase signal for any cardiac region viewed in two images obtained from the two opposed detector heads for the same time bin. The imaging system is capable of producing enhanced first pass studies, bloodpool studies including planar, gated and non-gated EKG studies, planar EKG perfusion studies, and planar hot spot imaging.
US08017913B2 Passive infrared detectors
An infrared motion detector including at least one infra-red radiation sensor, at least one radiation reflecting surface, operative to direct radiation impinging thereon towards the at least one infra-red radiation sensor and at least one coating layer, coating the at least one radiation reflective surface, which is substantially reflective to far infra-red radiation and which strongly absorbs at least one of visible light and near infra-red radiation, wherein the at least one coating layer includes black nickel.
US08017907B2 Data acquisition system for a spectrometer that generates stick spectra
A data acquisition system and method are described that may be used with various spectrometers. The data acquisition system may include an ion detector and a processing circuit. The processing circuit may include an initial processing module and a spectra processing module. According to one embodiment, the spectra processing module generates stick spectra and supplies the stick spectra to an external processor. The stick spectra comprise a peak intensity, resolution, and a location in the spectra for each detected peak. The stick spectra may be generated in real time.
US08017906B2 Slit and slot scan, SAR, and compton devices and systems for radiation imaging
The invention provides methods and apparatus for detecting radiation including x-ray photon (including gamma ray photon) and particle radiation for radiographic imaging (including conventional CT and radiation therapy portal and CT), nuclear medicine, material composition analysis, container inspection, mine detection, remediation, high energy physics, and astronomy. This invention provides novel face-on, edge-on, edge-on sub-aperture resolution (SAR), and face-on SAR scintillator detectors, designs and systems for enhanced slit and slot scan radiographic imaging suitable for medical, industrial, Homeland Security, and scientific applications. Some of these detector designs are readily extended for use as area detectors, including cross-coupled arrays, gas detectors, and Compton gamma cameras. Energy integration, photon counting, and limited energy resolution readout capabilities are described. Continuous slit and slot designs as well as sub-slit and sub-slot geometries are described, permitting the use of modular detectors.
US08017901B2 Photodetector
A photodetecting device 1 includes a photodiode PDm,n, a switch SWm,n for the photodiode, an integrating circuit 12m, and a noise removing circuit 13m. The integrating circuit 12m accumulates in a capacitor Cfk an electric charge input from the photodiode PDm,n through the switch SWm,n for the photodiode, and outputs a voltage value according to the amount of the accumulated electric charge. The noise removing circuit 13m includes an amplifier A3, five switches SW31 to SW35, four capacitors C31 to C34, and a power supply V3. The noise removing circuit 13m takes in a voltage value that is output from the integrating circuit 12m at a time where the switch SW31 is first turned from a closed state to an open state, and after the time, outputs a voltage value according to a difference between the voltage value that is output from the integrating circuit 12m and the voltage value previously taken in.
US08017895B2 Apparatus for tracking a moving light source
A tracking device for automatically following a moving light source that is detectable in the presence of ambient light. A carrier platform including one or more radiant energy conversion devices and a sensor array is mounted to an upright support column with a universal joint. Three independently-operated, linear actuators are equally angularly spaced about the support column with an upper end connected to the carrier platform with a universal hinge and a lower end connected to a floating base with a spherical hinge. A sensor array carried by the carrier platform includes a primary sensor associated with each actuator. During operation, when a primary sensor is not receiving direct radiant energy, the actuator retracts, and when it is receiving radiant energy directly, the actuator extends. The result is that the platform will directly track the sun across the horizon.
US08017892B2 Apparatus and methods for synthesis of large size batches of carbon nanostructures
An apparatus and method for synthesizing nanostructures. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a reactor having a reaction zone and a conductive susceptor positioned in the reaction zone. The method includes the steps of transporting a gas mixture having an aerosolized catalyst, a feedstock and a carrier gas into the reaction zone of the reactor, inductively heating the reaction zone, and regulating a flow rate of the gas mixture to allow the catalyst to spend a sufficient amount of time in the reaction zone for the growth of nanostructures.
US08017884B2 Integrated touch panel and electronic device using the same
An integrated touch panel including a first, second, and third substrates, a first and second adhesive layers, a first and second axial conductive layers, a shielding layer, a first and second conductive films, two first and second conductive electrodes is provided. The first axial conductive layer, the first adhesive layer and the second axial conductive layer are laminated in order between the first substrate and the second substrate. The shielding layer and the first conductive film are adjacent to each other and disposed between the second substrate and the third substrate. The second adhesive layer and the second conductive film are laminated in order between the first conductive film and the third substrate. Two first conductive electrodes are disposed in parallel between the first conductive film and the second adhesive layer, and two second conductive electrodes are disposed in parallel between the first conductive film and the second adhesive layer.
US08017882B2 Side key assembly for portable electronic device
A side key assembly includes a base plate, a mounting shaft and two push buttons. The base plate has an opening defined therein and a sidewall formed in the opening. The mounting shaft is rotatably mounted on the base plate and received in the opening of the base plate. The two push buttons is rotatably received in the opening and respectively resisting against two opposite sides of the mounting shaft.
US08017879B2 Customizable keyboard
A keyboard includes a panel and a number of input keys. The input keys are assembled on the panel. The panel includes at least one first positive contact, at least one first negative contact and at least one first signal contact disposed on the panel. Each input key of the number of input keys includes a second positive contact, a second negative contact, a second signal contact and a signal transmitter received therein. The second positive contact, the second negative contact and the second signal contact are configured for connecting to the at least one first positive contact, the at least one first negative contact and the at least one first signal contact respectively when the input key is assembled on the panel. The signal transmitter is configured for emitting a signal reflecting the function of the input key when the input key is pressed.
US08017872B2 System and method for proportional cooling with liquid metal
A circuit board may include a pump and a channel. The channel may include a liquid metal and a coating. The liquid metal may be pumped through the channel by the pump and the coating reduces diffusion and chemical reaction between the liquid metal and at least portions of the channel. The liquid metal may carry thermal energy to act as a heat transfer mechanism between two or more locations on the substrate. The substrate may include electrical interconnects to allow electrical components to be populated onto the substrate to form an electronics assembly. The pump may be driven by electric current that is utilized by one or more electronic components on the circuit board.
US08017866B2 Device for opening and/or closing cable ducts
A device for opening and/or closing cable duct is provided. The device includes a main body shaped so as to provide a gripping surface for an operator. The main body includes at least one base wall which extends, at least partly, according to a reference plane and which is associated with at least one shaped edge which extends from the base wall towards a further reference plane. At least one joining wall connects the base wall and the shaped edge integrally with each other.
US08017865B1 Collapsible while-in-use electrical outlet cover assembly
An expandable while-in-use electrical outlet cover assembly comprising a lid operatively coupled to a base, the lid comprising flexible clips each comprising a first end, a mid-position and a second end. The collapsible lid may be held in an expanded position by the first end of the flexible clips and collapsed to a collapsed position by applying force to the lid such that a box-like cap slides with respect to a support ring such that the cap seats at the mid-portion of the flexible clip. Particularly useful for rigid lids, like metal lids, the collapsible cover protects the outlet beneath the cover while an electrical cord is plugged in, but still collapses to a smaller profile.
US08017864B2 Carbon nano tube Litz wire for low loss inductors and resonators
An upper frequency-range circuit (160) includes a load element (168) exhibiting a capacitive load impedance. A first matching network (166) includes at least one nano-scale Litz wire (100) inductor. The first matching network (166) exhibits an inductive impedance that nominally matches the capacitive load impedance. An electrical conductor for providing connections for radio-frequency signals includes a plurality of nano-scale conductors (120) that are arranged in the form of a Litz wire (100). In one method of making a Litz wire (142), a plurality of carbon nanotubes (144) is placed on a substrate (146). The carbon nanotubes (144) are woven according to a predefined scheme so as to form a Litz wire (142). An inductor may be formed by manipulating the Litz wire (100) to form a coil (150).
US08017860B2 Method and structure for thin film photovoltaic materials using bulk semiconductor materials
A photovoltaic device and related methods. The device has a structured material positioned between an electron collecting electrode and a hole collecting electrode. An electron transporting/hole blocking material is positioned between the electron collecting electrode and the structured material. In a specific embodiment, negatively charged carriers generated by optical absorption by the structured material are preferentially separated into the electron transporting/hole blocking material. In a specific embodiment, the structured material has an optical absorption coefficient of at least 103 cm−1 for light comprised of wavelengths within the range of about 400 nm to about 700 nm.
US08017854B2 Dynamic musical part determination
Described are methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer program products, for dynamically determining a musical part performed by a player of a rhythm-action game. In one aspect of a rhythm-action game, microphones are not tied to a particular part and therefore any player can play any of a number of parts, e.g., melody or harmony, lead or rhythm, guitar or bass, without switching instruments. This is accomplished by displaying, on a display, a plurality of target music data associated with a musical composition, receiving a music performance input data via the input device, determining which of the plurality of target music data has a degree of matching with the music performance input data, and assigning the music performance input data to the determined target music data.
US08017852B2 Music content reproduction apparatus, method thereof and recording apparatus
An apparatus for reproducing a music content includes a first acquisition unit for acquiring data of a music content, a second acquisition unit for acquiring attribute information, a reproducing unit for reproducing, into an audio reproduction output, the music content data acquired by the first acquisition unit, a detecting unit for detecting bio-information of a listener listening to the audio reproduction output, and a setting unit for setting a next reproduction music content candidate based on the acquired bio-information of the listener and the attribute information acquired by the second acquisition unit.
US08017850B2 Electronic musical instrument having ad-lib performance function and program for ad-lib performance function
The ROM 101 stores a chord scale note table composed of a plurality of scale by 12 notes starting from a chord tone in which C note is given as a root note and arranging a chord scale note as an inverted form of a chord in which the note is given as the lowest note. Where there is any change in chord at a beginning note of a phrase, or while phrase is played, notes are replaced to suppress note jump by using the chord scale note table. Where time from the previous key-on to the current key-on is in excess of a predetermined time, the note jump will not be suppressed.
US08017848B2 Compact page turning device
The present invention provides an apparatus for turning the pages of books. The page turning apparatus includes a housing which receives the book. Further, the page turning apparatus includes a shaft having single or multiple protrusions. The shaft rotates and one or more of the protrusions attached to the shaft act through a number of steps to lift the page, and subsequently push the page as the shaft moves linearly to complete the page-turning process and then reset so the process can be repeated. The rotational motion and the linear motion are provided by one or more energy means. Also, the energy means provides a rotational and a linear motion to the shaft for turning the page of the book. In addition, the rotational motion of the shaft is followed by the linear motion along a horizontal axis of the housing.
US08017844B2 Tremolo mechanism for a stringed musical instrument with pivoting string anchor
A tremolo mechanism having a novel roller mounted beneath a tensioned string of a stringed musical instrument is described. During oscillatory movement, the tensioned string exerts both a static and a vibratory force on the roller. The roller rotates in relation to the tensioned string such that the static force is generally greater than any component of the vibratory force. The novel roller may be a saddle roller with a saddle block having two opposing block walls which form a roller cavity. The block walls each have a roller bore aligned along a roller axis. The saddle roller includes a cylindrical body attached to a roller pin and a circumferential seat receiving a tension string. The roller pin is rotatably disposed such that the saddle roller is in the saddle block cavity. The roller axis extends obliquely to define an oblique roller angle.
US08017841B2 Soybean variety D5726358
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated D5726358. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety D5726358. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety D5726358 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety D5726358 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08017829B1 Selective expression of genes in plants
This invention relates to a method of biocatalytically producing compounds that are commercially valuable but are detrimental to the host cells' development. The transgenic plants produced in accordance with the present invention comprise a novel controlled expression system comprising a promoter (2), a blocking sequence (a), and a structural gene (6), wherein the blocking sequence (a) is flanked by a pair of directly repeated site-specific recombination sequences (4). The blocking sequence (a) prevents expression of the structural gene (6) until removal of the blocking sequence (a) by site-specific recombinase activity encoded by a site-specific recombinase gene (12).
US08017826B2 Injection and hemostasis site
A pad of elastomeric material having a softness of no more than about durometer 30 Shore 00. The pad may carry adhesive for adhering the pad to a surface, either directly or indirectly through an envelope which surrounds the pad and carries the adhesive. Such a pad exhibits hemostatic and leak prevention properties against needle puncture holes in the skin or the wall of a hollow medical device. Particularly, hemostasis may be prevented with low pressure application of the pad to the skin. The pad may be previously applied to the skin of the patient or a wall of a medical device such as tubing or a solution bag, and the needle may then penetrate both the pad and the skin or medical device wall, to make a resealable puncture with leakage reduction and hemostasis when the needle is withdrawn.
US08017823B2 Process for the manufacture of acetylene by partial oxidation of hydrocarbons
A process is proposed for continuously operating a plant for preparing acetylene from hydrocarbons by partial oxidation, cleavage in an arc or pyrolysis of hydrocarbons to obtain a reaction gas mixture which is conducted through one or more compressors, the pressure of the reaction gas mixture on the suction side of the compressor being controlled within a predefined range by means of a conventional controller, which comprises additionally using a high-level model-supported predictive controller which reacts to abrupt changes in the mass flow rate of the reaction gas mixture.
US08017822B2 Integrated process to coproduce aromatic hydrocarbons and ethylene and propylene
An integrated process for producing aromatic hydrocarbons and ethylene and/or propylene and optionally other lower olefins from low molecular weight hydrocarbons, preferably methane, which comprises: (a) contacting at least one low molecular weight alkane, preferably methane, with a halogen, preferably bromine, under process conditions sufficient to produce a monohaloalkane, preferably monobromomethane, (b) reacting the monohaloalkane in the presence of a coupling catalyst to produce aromatic hydrocarbons and C2+ alkanes, (c) separating the aromatic hydrocarbons from the product mixture of step (b) to produce aromatic hydrocarbons, and (d) cracking at least part of the C2+ alkanes in an alkane cracking system to produce ethylene and/or propylene and optionally other lower olefins.
US08017821B2 Process for isomerization of tetrahydrodicyclopentadiene using supported acidic ionic liquid as a catalyst
A process for isomerization of tetrahydrodicyclopentadiene using a supported acidic ionic liquid as catalyst is provided. In the presence of the supported acidic ionic liquid, endo-tetrahydrodicyclopentadiene is isomerized to exo-tetrahydrodicyclo-pentadiene, wherein the supported acidic ionic liquid includes a porous support and an acidic ionic liquid, and the acidic ionic liquid includes an aluminum halide, and a quaternary ammonium halide or a quaternary phosphonium halide. The porous support is impregnated with the acidic ionic liquid. Furthermore, under different reaction conditions, the exo-tetrahydrodicyclopentadiene product can be isomerized to adamantane in the presence of such a supported acidic ionic liquid.
US08017820B2 Continuous flowing pre-treatment system with steam recovery
The present invention is directed to a continuous process for pretreating a lignocellulosic feedstock. A feedstock slurry is provided, which has a solids concentration of 10% to 33% by weight. The feedstock slurry is pumped through a heating train of at least two stages, each stage including a pump to increase stage pressure and a direct steam injection to heat the feedstock slurry. Acid is also added to the feedstock slurry prior to the heating train, during a heating stage, or after leaving the heating train; the acid is added at a concentration of 0% to 12% weight of acid on weight of initial feedstock. A heated, acidified feedstock slurry is thus produced. The heated, acidified feedstock slurry is flowed through a pre-treatment reactor at a temperature of 160° C. to 280° C. for a time sufficient to increase efficiency of conversion of cellulose in the feedstock to glucose using cellulase enzymes. After the slurry exits the pre-treatment reactor, it is cooled using two, or more than two flashing stages at successively lower pressures, without intermittent increases in pressure. The steam energy, at or near its flash temperature, from two or more than two of the flashing stages is used to heat the feedstock slurry in the heating train.
US08017818B2 Synthesis of liquid fuels and chemicals from oxygenated hydrocarbons
Processes and reactor systems are provided for the conversion of oxygenated hydrocarbons to hydrocarbons, ketones and alcohols useful as liquid fuels, such as gasoline, jet fuel or diesel fuel, and industrial chemicals. The process involves the conversion of mono-oxygenated hydrocarbons, such as alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, furans, carboxylic acids, diols, triols, and/or other polyols, to C4+ hydrocarbons, alcohols and/or ketones, by condensation. The oxygenated hydrocarbons may originate from any source, but are preferably derived from biomass.
US08017817B2 Process for the preparation of 1,1,3,3,3-pentafluoropropene and 1,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropene
A process for the manufacture of CF3CH═CF2 and CF3CF═CHF is disclosed. The process involves (a) reacting HF and chlorine and at least one halopropene of the formula CX3CCI═CCIX (where each X is independently F or Cl) to produce a product including both CF3CCI2CF3 and CF3CCIFCCIF2; (b) reacting CF3CCI2CF3 and CF3CCIFCCIF2 produced in (a) with hydrogen to produce a product including both CF3CH2CF3 and CF3CHFCHF2; (c) dehydrofluorinating CF3CH2CF3 and CF3CHFCHF2 produced in (b) to produce a product including both CF3CH═CF2 and CF3CF═CHF; and (d) recovering CF3CH═CF2 and CF3CF═CHF from the product produced in (c). In (a), both CF3CCI2CF3 and CF3CCIFCCIF2 are produced in the presence of a chlorofluorination catalyst consisting of (i) compositions comprising a crystalline alpha-chromium oxide where at least 0.05 atom % of the chromium atoms in the alpha-chromium oxide lattice are replaced by copper, and (H) compositions of (i) which have been treated with a fluorinating agent.
US08017809B2 Bisboron compound
A bisboron compound represented by the general formula (I): wherein B represents a boron atom, Y represents an oxygen or sulfur atom, R1 and R2 independently represent a monocyclic aromatic group, a polycyclic aromatic group, or a heterocyclic group containing at least one heteroatom selected from oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur atoms, R3 represents a hydrogen atom; —(CH2)m—NR4R5; —CO—(CH2)m—NR4R5; —COCH(NH2)R6; —CHR7R8; —CH2CH(NH2)—R9; quinolyl substituted with C1-C4 alkyl group; or C1-C4 alkyl substituted with pyridyl, piperidino or pyrrolidinyl group, and X represents a monocyclic aromatic group, a polycyclic aromatic group or a heterocyclic group, which may be the same as or different from R1 and R2, or a bifunctional group having a monocyclic aromatic group, polycyclic aromatic group or heterocyclic group bonded to each side of a group selected from the group consisting of a single bond, O, CH2, S, SO2, CH2OCH2, OCH2, OCH2CH2OCH2, OCH2OCH2CH2 and CH2OCH2CH2, or a salt thereof, and a composition for controlling the intracellular calcium concentration, which comprises the compound or salt thereof as an active ingredient.
US08017808B2 Process for preparing an amine
A process for preparing an amine by reacting an aldehyde and/or ketone with hydrogen and a nitrogen compound selected from the group of primary and secondary amines in the presence of a heterogeneous catalyst, wherein the catalyst is a coated catalyst which comprises at least one metal of group VIII of the Periodic Table of the Elements as a hydrogenating metal and additionally a promoter on an oxidic support, at least 80% of the metal of group VIII of the Periodic Table of the Elements being present in a layer between the surface of the catalyst and a penetration depth which is not more than 80% of the radius of the catalyst, calculated from the surface of the catalyst.
US08017807B2 Tetrahydroxy compound, method for preparing the tetrahydroxy compound, and photoreceptor using the tetrahydroxy compound
A new tetrahydroxy compound having a specific structure including two 2,3-dihydroxypropyloxy groups is provided. The compound has good charge transport property. In addition, a charge transport layer including the tetrahydroxy compound or a reaction product of the tetrahydroxy compound is provided. Further, a charge transport layer coating liquid is provided which includes the tetrahydroxy compound, and an alcohol. Furthermore an electrophotographic photoreceptor is provided which includes an electroconductive substrate, a charge generation layer, a charge transport layer and an outermost layer including the tetrahydroxy compound or a reaction product of the tetrahydroxy compound.
US08017805B2 Diaromatic amines
Diaromatic amine compounds or an isomer or isomeric mixture thereof is provided having the general formula: wherein n, m, R, R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5 are as defined herein are provided. Lubricating oil compositions and stabilizer-containing compositions containing the diaromatic amine compounds are also provided.
US08017799B2 Hexahydrophthalate based compound and process for producing the same
A hexahydrophthalate based compound is adapted to use as a plasticizer that contains no phthalic acid and benzoic acid, possess physical properties superior to DEHA and DINA in transparency and adhesion and is friendly to organisms and the environment; and a process for producing the hexahydrophthalate based compound includes esterifying hexahydrophthalic anhydride, a diol, and a catalyst for decarboxylation to get hexahydrophthalic alcohol, and adding a monoacid into the hexahydrophthalic alcohol for further esterification, thereby obtaining the hexahydrophthalate based compound.
US08017798B2 Method for producing tetrafluoroterephthalic acid difluoride
A method for producing tetrafluoroterephthalic acid difluoride comprising reacting tetrachloroterephthalic acid dichloride with potassium fluoride in the presence of dimethyl sulfone.
US08017795B2 Radiation curable polymer films having improved laser ablation properties and radiation curable sensitizers therefor
Disclosed are coating formulations that include a copolyester and a vinyl ether in which the copolyester is produced by copolymerizing a monomer composition that includes a fused aromatic diacid monomer, an unsaturated diacid monomer, and a polyol. Also disclosed are methods for producing a laser-ablatable film on a surface of a substrate. The method includes coating the substrate with a coating formulation that includes a copolyester and a vinyl ether and polymerizing the coating formulation. The copolyester includes a fused aromatic moiety covalently bonded therein. Novel radiation curable sensitizers that can be used in the preparation of radiation curable polymer films having improved laser ablation properties are also described.
US08017788B2 Heteroaryl (substituted)alkyl N-substituted sulfoximines as insecticides
N-Substituted heteroaryl (substituted)alkyl sulfoximines are effective at controlling insects.
US08017783B2 Biphenyl compounds useful as muscarinic receptor antagonists
This invention provides compounds of formula I: wherein a, b, c, d, m, n, p, s, t, W, Ar1, R1, R2, R3, R4, R6, R7, and R8 are as defined in the specification. The compounds of formula I are muscarinic receptor antagonists. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, processes and intermediates for preparing such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat pulmonary disorders.
US08017780B1 Therapeutic compounds and uses thereof
The invention provides novel therapeutic compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, and methods for using these compounds and compositions to treat diseases and disorders such as cancer.
US08017776B2 Methods for synthesis of acyloxyalkyl compounds
Disclosed herein are methods for synthesizing 1-(acyloxy)-alkyl prodrug derivatives of drugs through oxidation of 1-acyl-alkyl derivatives of drugs under anhydrous reaction conditions. The methods typically proceed stereospecifically, in high yield, do not require the use of activated intermediates and/or toxic compounds and are readily amenable to scale-up.
US08017773B2 Cyclohexyl sulfonamide derivatives
The present invention relates to compounds of formula I wherein R1 to R3 are as defined in the description and claims, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The compounds are useful for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases which are associated with the modulation of H3 receptors.
US08017769B2 Colorless water-soluble organic luminophores and intermediates thereof
Benzazole substituted aminobenzenesulfonate derivatives of formula (A) (wherein X, Q and M are as defined in the specification) are useful as components of water-soluble fluorescent inks and dyes invisible in day-light. Novel intermediates for the above compounds are also disclosed.
US08017766B2 Methods for preparing alkali cellulose and cellulose ether
Provided is a method for preparing alkali cellulose having alkali distributed uniformly therein. A uniform alkali distribution in the alkali cellulose makes it possible to prepare cellulose ether which has been substituted uniformly in an etherification reaction step. The resulting cellulose ether does not contain a floating water-insoluble portion which will otherwise appear owing to insufficient substitution. More specifically, provided are a method for preparing alkali cellulose, comprising simultaneously feeding pulp powder and an aqueous alkali solution to a high speed disperser to continuously bring them into contact with each other and a method for preparing cellulose ether, comprising reacting the resulting alkali cellulose with an etherifying agent.
US08017764B2 Therapeutic uses of inhibitors of RTP801L
The present invention provides novel molecules, compositions, methods and uses for treating microvascular disorders, eye diseases respiratory conditions and hearing disorders based upon inhibition of the RTP801L gene and/or protein.
US08017763B2 Chemically modified oligonucleotides
This invention relates composition and methods for making and using chemically modified oligonucleotides agents for inhibiting gene expression.
US08017761B2 RNA interference mediated inhibition of Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) gene expression using short interfering nucelic acid (siNA)
This invention relates to compounds, compositions, and methods useful for modulating Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) gene expression using short interfering nucleic acid (siNA) molecules. This invention also relates to compounds, compositions, and methods useful for modulating the expression and activity of other genes involved in pathways of Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) gene expression and/or activity by RNA interference (RNAi) using small nucleic acid molecules. In particular, the instant invention features small nucleic acid molecules, such as short interfering nucleic acid (siNA), short interfering RNA (siRNA), double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), micro-RNA (miRNA), and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) molecules and methods used to modulate the expression of Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) genes.
US08017760B2 Antisense modulation of PTP1B expression
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression of PTP1B. The compositions comprise antisense compounds, particularly antisense oligonucleotides, targeted to nucleic acids encoding PTP1B. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of PTP1B expression and for treatment of diseases associated with expression of PTP1B are provided.
US08017754B2 Attenuated virus strains and uses thereof
Methods and compositions concerning mutant flaviviruses with reduced virulence. In some embodiments the invention concerns nucleotide sequences that encode mutant flaviviral proteins. Viruses comprising mutant NS1 and NS4B genes display reduced virulence are provided. In further aspects of the invention, flavivirus vaccine compositions such as West Nile virus vaccines are provided. In another embodiment the invention provides methods for vaccination against flavivirus infection.
US08017753B2 Mycobacterial antigens expressed under low oxygen tension
A method is provided for identifying mycobacterial genes that are induced or up-regulated under continuous culture conditions defined by a dissolved oxygen tension of up to 10% air saturation measured at 37° C. when compared with a dissolved oxygen tension of at least 40% air saturation measured at 37° C. Said induced or up-regulated genes form the basis of nucleic acid vaccines, or provide targets to allow preparation of attenuated mycobacteria for vaccines against mycobacterial infections. Similarly, peptides encoded by said induced or up-regulated genes are employed in vaccines. In a further embodiment, the identified genes/peptides provide the means for identifying the presence of a mycobacterial infection in a clinical sample by nucleic acid probe or antibody detection.
US08017750B2 Haemocoagulase
The present invention provides a venene haemocoagulase gene and its expression for the functional protein. The haemocoagulase gene of the present invention has a nucleotide sequence shown by the sequence list SEQ ID NO: 1 or the mutated nucleotide sequence formed by replacement, depletion, or addition of one or more nucleotide based on the said nucleotide sequence with an equivalent function. The said haemocoagulase has amino acid sequence shown by SEQ ID NO: 2. Haemocoagulase of the present invention has an obvious hemostatic effect, a broad effective dose range, safe and reliable application, which creates good conditions for the development of genetic engineering products of recombinant haemocoagulase in the future.
US08017748B2 Antibody neutralizers of human granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor
The present invention relates to a human monoclonal antibody or fragment thereof which specifically binds to and neutralizes primate GM-CSF.
US08017746B2 Fluorescent protein
An object of the present invention is to provide a red or orange fluorescent protein, which is characterized in that the difference (stokes shift) between an excitation peak value (wavelength of maximum absorption) and a fluorescence peak value (wavelength of maximum fluorescence) is greatened, so that the maximum fluorescence can be obtained by the maximum excitation. The present invention provides a novel fluorescent protein monomerized by introducing a mutation into a florescent protein derived from Fungia sp., and a novel chromoprotein and fluorescent protein derived from Montipora. sp.
US08017742B2 Gene carrier
Disclosed is a gene carrier composed of a hydrogen-bonding polymer having a polymer chain with hydrogen-bonding sites formed on the polymer chain, in which the polymer chain has a conformation similar to the conformation of a nucleic acid, and particularly, the polymer chain has helix parameters similar to the helix parameters of a nucleic acid of a helix structure. In a preferred embodiment, the hydrogen-bonding polymer is composed of β-1,3-glucan such as schizophyllan. The carrier can be expected to be applied as a vector and a separator for nucleic acids because it is capable of interacting with a nucleic acid to form a complex with the nucleic acid and thus carrying the nucleic acid.
US08017737B2 Diagnostic methods for diseases by screening for hepcidin in human or animal tissues, blood or body fluids; monoclonal antibodies specific to human hepcidin and associated uses therefor
The present invention concerns antibodies specific for the C-terminus of human hepcidin, and related methods and kits for diagnosing and/or treating a disease condition characterized by non-physiological levels of hepcidin protein, including prohepcidin and fragments thereof, comprising obtaining a tissue or fluid sample from a subject; contacting the sample with an antibody or fragment thereof that specifically binds to a polypeptide corresponding to the amino acid sequence between and including amino acids 60 and 84, or, in another embodiment, amino acids 74 and 81, as aligned with the human pre-pro-hepcidin precursor protein, and quantifying the pro-hepcidin and/or mature hepcidin level using an assay based on binding of the antibody and the polypeptide; wherein the non-physiological level of prohepcidin/mature hepcidin is indicative of the disease condition. The present invention also concerns diagnostic methods and kits for applications in genetic technological approaches, such as for overexpressing or downregulating hepcidin.
US08017735B2 Anti-IGFR1 antibody therapeutic combinations
The present invention provides combinations including a binding composition, such as an anti-IGFR1 antibody, in association with a chemotherapeutic agent. Methods for using the combinations to treat medical conditions, such as cancer, are also provided.
US08017733B2 Polyalkylene polymer compounds and uses thereof
The invention relates to novel polyalkylene glycol compounds and methods of using them. In particular, compounds comprising a novel polyethylene glycol conjugate are used alone, or in combination with antiviral agents to treat a viral infection, such as chronic hepatitis C.
US08017731B2 Hemopoietic receptor protein, NR10
The inventors succeeded in isolating a novel hemopoietin receptor gene (NR10) using a sequence predicted from the extracted motif conserved in the amino acid sequences of known hemopoietin receptors. It was expected that two forms of NR10 exists, a transmembrane type and soluble form. Expression of the former type was detected in tissues containing hematopoietic cells. Thus, NR10 is a novel hemopoietin receptor molecule implicated in the regulation of the immune system and hematopoiesis in vivo. These novel receptors are useful in screening for novel hematopoietic factors capable of functionally binding to the receptor, or developing medicines to treat diseases related with the immune system or hematopoietic system.
US08017730B2 T cell receptors which specifically bind to VYGFVRACL-HLA-A24
The present invention provides isolated T cell receptors (TCRs) having the property of specifically binding to the VYGFVRACL (SEQ ID NO:1)-HLA-A24 peptide-MHC. Such TCRs are useful, either alone or associated with a therapeutic agent, for targeting cancerous cells presenting the complex.
US08017729B2 Nanographite structure/metal nanoparticle composite
The present invention makes it possible to efficiently recognize carbon nanotubes, carbon nanohorns or modifiers thereof and to support functional compounds by fusing the ability of ferritin molecules capable of forming nanoparticles of inorganic metal atoms or inorganic metal compounds. In addition, because ferritin molecules are capable of forming two-dimensional crystals at the interface, the present invention makes it possible to align carbon nanotubes, carbon nanohorns with the use of the molecular arrangement ability of ferritin fused with nanographite structure recognition peptides. A nanographite structure/metal nanoparticle composite is constructed, wherein a nanoparticle of an inorganic metal atom or an inorganic metal compound is retained in an interior space of a protein in which a nanographite structure recognition peptide is fused or chemically bound to a surface of a cage protein such as ferritin, and wherein a plurality of nanoparticles of an inorganic metal atom or an inorganic metal compound are supported on a nanographite structure with the use of affinity of the nanographite structure recognition peptide to the nanographite structure.
US08017728B2 Metal-binding compounds and uses therefor
The invention provides a method of reducing the damage done by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in an animal. The invention also provides a method of reducing the concentration of a metal in an animal. These methods comprise administering to the animal an effective amount of a metal-binding compound as further described in the application. The invention further provides a method of reducing the damage done by ROS to a cell, a tissue or an organ that has been removed from an animal. This method comprising contacting the cell, tissue or organ with a solution or medium containing an effective amount of a metal-binding compound of the invention. The invention further provides novel metal-binding compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the metal-binding compounds, and kits comprising a container holding a metal-binding compound of the invention.
US08017727B2 Conjugates of membrane translocating agents and pharmaceutically active agents
Membrane translocation peptides, compositions comprising them, chimeric molecules comprising them, and methods of using them to achieve transmembrane transport of various agents.
US08017726B2 Anti-inflammatory compounds and uses thereof
The present invention provides anti-inflammatory compounds, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods of use thereof for treating inflammatory disorders. The present invention also provides methods of identifying anti-inflammatory compounds and methods of inhibiting NF-κB-dependent target gene expression in a cell.
US08017724B2 Method for producing sulfonic acid group-containing carbonaceous material, solid acid catalyst, method for producing alkylation reaction product, and method for producing olefin polymer
The method for producing a sulfonic acid group-containing carbonaceous material of the present invention comprises the step of carbonizing and sulfonating a polymer having a structural unit derived from resorcinol by heating in an inert gas atmosphere to obtain a sulfonic acid group-containing carbonaceous material. A catalyst comprising the resulting sulfonic acid group-containing carbonaceous material is useful for producing a target substance with high efficiency in various reactions in hydrophobic media such as alkylation reaction and polymerization reaction of olefins.
US08017722B2 Polycarbonate containing plant-derived component and process for the preparation thereof
A process for production of a plant-derived component-containing polycarbonate represented by the following formula (3): (wherein R1-R4 each independently represent a group selected from among hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl and aryl, and n is the number of repeating units), by melt polycondensation using as the starting materials a specified diol, having a total content of Na, Fe and Ca of no greater than 2 ppm and a purity analysis value of at least 99.7% by gas chromatography, and a specified carbonic acid diester, having a total content of Na, Fe and Ca of no greater than 2 ppm and a purity analysis value of at least 99.7% by gas chromatography.
US08017715B2 Polyester, and composition and film comprising the same
An object of the present invention is to provide a polyester film having excellent dimensional stability to temperature and humidity.The present invention is a polyester containing a dicarboxylic acid component and a diol component, wherein (i) the dicarboxylic acid component contains not less than 5 mol % and less than 50 mol % of a recurring unit represented by the following formula (A) and more than 50 mol % and not more than 95 mol % of a recurring unit represented by the following formula (B): wherein RA is an alkylene group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, wherein RB is a phenylene group or naphthalenediyl group; and (ii) the diol component contains 90 to 100 mol % of a recurring unit represented by the following formula (C): —O—RC—O—  (C) wherein RC is an alkylene group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, and a film comprising the same.
US08017714B2 Polyanhydrides with therapeutically useful degradation products
An aromatic polyanhydride comprising a repeating unit having the structure is disclosed, wherein Ar and R are selected so that the aromatic polyanhydride hydrolyzes to form a therapeutic salicylate, another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, an antifibrotic aminobenzoate, or a vasoconstricting phenylethanolamine. Implantable medical devices, such as scaffolding implants for tissue reconstruction, drug delivery systems prepared from the aromatic polyanhydrides, as well as therapeutic dosage forms and treatment methods are also disclosed.
US08017713B2 Production apparatus of polycarbonate resin and production method of polycarbonate resin
An apparatus of a polycarbonate resin having polymerization tanks is provided. In supplying a molten reactant to a liquid phase in a polymerization tank, or supplying the molten reactant to a gas phase in the polymerization tank by an insertion pipe, in at least one polymerization tank, and/or producing a polycarbonate resin by an ester exchange reaction between an aromatic dihydroxy compound and a carbonic diester by using three vertical polymerization tanks and one horizontal polymerization tank, a wall surface temperature T of a distillation pipe is set higher than a boiling point t1 of by-produced phenol such that the relationship of the boiling point t1 of the by-produced phenol under a pressure in at least a third vertical polymerization tank, the wall surface temperature T of the distillation pipe and an inner temperature t2 of the third vertical polymerization tank satisfies t1
US08017707B2 Solid homogenous mixtures of polyvinylacetate and vinylacetate-vinyl laurate copolymer prepared by sequential solution polymerization
The invention provides homogeneous compositions in solid form comprising a) from 50 to 90% by weight of polyvinyl acetate and b) from 10 to 50% by weight of vinyl acetate-vinyl laurate copolymer, the weight percentages based on the total weight of the composition.
US08017701B2 Energy efficient polyolefin process
A manufacturing process for producing polyolefin, having a feed system, a reactor system including at least one polymerization reactor, a diluent/monomer recovery system, a fractionation system, and an extrusion/loadout system having an extruder. The manufacturing process is configured to consume less than 325 kilowatt-hours of electricity per metric ton of polyolefin produced.
US08017696B2 Tire compositions and vulcanizates thereof having improved silica reinforcement
Vulcanizable elastomeric compositions and vulcanizates are prepared by employing a titanium compound. The titanium compound is believed to enhance the reaction between a silica particle and a silica-reactive compound.
US08017680B2 Rubber latex films having improved tear resistance
A method of making a rubber latex comprises providing a rubber latex and adding to the latex a solution of a reinforcing agent. Further, a method of making a reinforced rubber latex film comprises providing a rubber latex, adding to the latex a solution of a reinforcing agent, then forming a film from the latex. There is also provided a rubber latex comprising a solution of a reinforcing agent, which is preferably a solution of a water-soluble silicate. Rubber latex films and articles made therefrom are also provided.
US08017676B2 Halogen-free flame retardant thermoplastic polyurethanes
Disclosed is a halogen-free flame retardant thermoplastic polyurethane composite resin composition. The disclosed flame retardant thermoplastic polyurethane composite resin composition is capable of improving flame retardancy and flaming-drip of a thermoplastic polyurethane resin through desirable formation of char during combustion, which uses a phosphinate, a diphosphinate and/or a polymer thereof, dipentaerythritol, talc, a melamine derivative, etc., instead of a halogen-based flame retardant, as a flame retardant.
US08017675B2 Asphalt enhancing additive
An asphalt enhancing additive, an asphalt cement and an asphalt mixture containing the additive, wherein the additive causes the mixture to be more easily workable so that the asphalt mixture can be manufactured at a temperature lower than the conventional ones, wherein the additive comprises the mixture of an aminic compound, a lubricant and a flux.
US08017674B2 Heat-conductive adhesive
The invention provides a heat-conductive adhesive with high heat spread properties and excellent handleability. A pitch-based carbon fiber filler with high thermal conductivity and a smooth surface is combined with an adhesive resin to produce a heat-conductive adhesive with controlled viscosity and excellent handleability.
US08017673B2 Polymer stabilizer
A polymer stabilizer comprising the following alkoxy compound: the alkoxy compound: a compound obtained by alkoxylating at least one hydroxyl group contained in a compound of the following formula (1) containing one formyl group or carbonyl group and (n−1) hydroxyl groups in the molecule with an alkyl group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms: CnH2nOn  (1) (wherein, n represents an integer of 3 or more).
US08017670B2 Epoxy resin composition for optical-semiconductor encapsulation, cured resin thereof, and optical semiconductor device obtained with the same
The present invention relates to an epoxy resin composition for optical-semiconductor encapsulation which comprises the following ingredients (A) to (C): (A) an epoxy resin; (B) a curing agent; and (C) a naphthalocyanine colorant. The epoxy resin composition of the invention transmits visible rays and shields near infrared rays while retaining properties inherent in the epoxy resin.
US08017669B2 Color filter ink, color filter ink set, color filter, image display device, and electronic device
A color filter ink is adapted to be used to manufacture a color filter by an inkjet method. The color filter ink includes a colorant, a liquid medium that dissolves and/or disperses the colorant, and a resin material. The resin material includes a polymer X and a polymer Y. The polymer X has a monomer component x1 represented by a prescribed chemical formula, a monomer component x2 represented by a prescribed chemical formula, a monomer component x3 represented by a prescribed chemical formula, and a monomer component x4 represented by a prescribed chemical formula. The polymer Y has a monomer component y1 represented by a prescribed chemical formula and a monomer component y2 represented by a prescribed chemical formula.
US08017663B2 Modified asphaltic foam materials
An asphaltic isocyanurate foam useful in roofing applications. Asphalt is liquified and mixed with a mixture of polyisocyanate. In a separate mixture, other chemicals, such as polyols, surfactant, catalyst, and blowing agent are combined. The mixtures are combined and reacted to form an asphaltic polyurethane foam.
US08017660B2 Process for dissolution of highly fluorinated ion-exchange polymers
Highly fluorinated ion-exchange polymers achieve dissolution in aqueous tetrahydrofuran at lower pressures and temperatures than in other solvents, with few or no side products being formed.
US08017658B2 Synthesis of hydrocarbons via catalytic reduction of CO2
A method of: introducing hydrogen and a feed gas containing at least 50 vol % carbon dioxide into a reactor containing a Fischer-Tropsch catalyst; and heating the hydrogen and carbon dioxide to a temperature of at least about 190° C. to produce hydrocarbons in the reactor. An apparatus having: a reaction vessel for containing a Fischer-Tropsch catalyst, capable of heating gases to at least about 190° C.; a hydrogen delivery system feeding into the reaction vessel; a carbon dioxide delivery system for delivering a feed gas containing at least 50 vol % carbon dioxide feeding into the reaction vessel; and a trap for collecting hydrocarbons generated in the reaction vessel.
US08017657B1 Composition for the treatment and prevention of endothelial dysfunction
A composition and method for pain relief and the treatment and prevention of endothelial dysfunction the cause of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and stroke in mammals comprising a therapeutically effective amount of anti-inflammatory agents comprising; NSAIDs, an amino sugar and a zinc compound combined with dietary supplements that may enhance longevity.
US08017654B2 Combination cancer therapy with bis(thiohydrazide) amide compounds
A method of treating a subject with cancer includes the step of co-administering to the subject over three to five weeks, a taxane in an amount of between about 243 μmol/m2 to 315 μmol/m2 (e.g., equivalent to paclitaxel in about 210-270 mg/m2); and a bis(thiohydrazide amide) in an amount between about 1473 μmol/m2 and about 1722 μmol/m2 (e.g., Compound (1) in about 590-690 mg/m2). The bis(thiohydrazide amide) is represented by Structural Formula (I), Y is a covalent bond or an optionally substituted straight chained hydrocarbyl group, or, Y, taken together with both >C=Z groups to which it is bonded, is an optionally substituted aromatic group. R1-R4 are independently —H, an optionally substituted aliphatic group, an optionally substituted aryl group, or R1 and R3 taken together with the carbon and nitrogen atoms to which they are bonded, and/or R2 and R4 taken together with the carbon and nitrogen atoms to which they are bonded, form a non-aromatic heterocyclic ring optionally fused to an aromatic ring. R7-R8 are independently —H, an optionally substituted aliphatic group, or an optionally substituted aryl group. Z is O or S.
US08017653B2 Bipolar trans carotenoid salts and their uses
The invention relates to trans carotenoid salt compounds, methods for making them, methods for solubilizing them and uses thereof. These compounds are useful in improving diffusivity of oxygen between red blood cells and body tissues in mammals including humans.
US08017648B2 Methods of use of cyclopamine analogs
The invention provides methods for treating various conditions using derivatives of cyclopamine having the following formula:
US08017647B2 Crystalline sodium atorvastatin
Crystalline sodium atorvastatin, compositions containing the same and methods for the production thereof.
US08017645B2 Melatonin daily dosage units
The present invention relates to a disposable container for a medicament or cosmetic agent for topical application, containing a single dose of melatonin or of a melatonin derivative which corresponds to a locally effective dose but which does not cause any systemic effect.
US08017644B2 2-arylindole derivatives as nPGES-1 inhibitors
A 2-arylindole compound substituted in position 5, of formula (I): in which X, Y, Z, W, A, R and R′ have the meanings given in the description, a pharmaceutical composition comprising it, and also intermediate compounds and a preparation process therefor.
US08017642B2 Functionally selective ALPHA2C adrenoreceptor agonists
In its many embodiments, the present invention provides a novel class of naphthene- and indane-type as inhibitors of α2C adrenergic receptor agonists, methods of preparing such compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more such compounds, methods of preparing pharmaceutical formulations comprising one or more such compounds, and methods of treatment, prevention, inhibition, or amelioration of one or more conditions associated with the α2C adrenergic receptors using such compounds or pharmaceutical compositions.
US08017641B2 P38 inhibitors and methods of use thereof
This invention relates to inhibitors of p38 and methods of utilizing the inhibitors and pharmaceutical compositions thereof in the treatment and prevention of various disorders mediated by p38.
US08017640B2 Benz-indole and benzo-quinoline derivatives as prodrugs for tumor treatment
Compounds of the general formula (I) or (IA) in which X is H, Y is a leaving group, R1 preferably being an aromatic DNA binding subunit are prodrug analogues of duocarmycin. The compounds are expected to be hydroxylated at the carbon atom to which C is joined, by cytochrome P450, in particular by CYP1B1, expressed at high levels in tumors. The prodrug is expected to be activated preferentially in tumor cells, which it will act as a DNA alkylating agent preventing cell division.
US08017637B2 Inhibitors of cdc phosphatases
A subject of the present invention is novel compounds comprising 2 or 3 benzothiazole-4,7-dione- or benzooxazole-4,7-dione-type units, which inhibit the cdc25 phosphatases, in particular cdc25-C phosphatase. These compounds can in particular be used in the treatment of cancer.
US08017633B2 Roflumilast for the treatment of diabetes mellitus
The invention relates to the use of Roflumilast and/or Roflumilast N-Oxide for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and accompanying disorders thereof. The invention additionally relates to combinations of Roflumilast and/or Roflumilast N-Oxide with other active agents for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
US08017629B2 Compounds and uses thereof in modulating amyloid β
Novel compounds, compositions, and kits are provided. Methods of modulating Aβ levels, and methods of treating a disease associated with aberrant Aβ levels are also provided.
US08017628B2 Pharmaceutically active sulfonyl hydrazide derivatives
Sulfonyl hydrazide compounds according to formula I geometrical isomers thereof, optically active enantiomers thereof, diastereomers thereof, racemates thereof, and/or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof are useful in method for treating a neuronal disorder, an autoimmune disease, a cardiovascular disease, or cancer in a patient in need of such treatment.
US08017626B2 Quinolone based compounds exhibiting, prolyl hydroxylase inhibitory activity, and compositions, and uses thereof
This invention relates to new quinolone based compounds that exhibit prolyl hydroxylase inhibitory activity. This invention also relates to methods of increasing HIF levels or activity in a subject or treating a condition associated with HIF levels or activity in a subject by administering to the subject at least one quinolone based compound. This invention further involves assays for the detection of a hydroxyproline residue in a HIF molecule.
US08017623B2 Dextromethorphan hydrochloride
The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising dextromethorphan hydrochloride.
US08017619B2 Compositions useful as inhibitors of protein kinases
The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of protein kinases. The invention also provides processes for preparing the compounds, pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds, and methods of using the compounds and compositions in the treatment of various disease, conditions, or disorders.
US08017618B2 Antifolate agent combinations in the treatment of cancer
Compositions and methods useful in the treatment of certain cancers. The methods include administering, to a patient receiving an antifolate anticancer agent, methoxyamine administered in an amount sufficient to enhance or increase the effect of the antifolate anticancer agent. In part, this application is based on the recognition that certain molecules that target abasic lesions or AP sites in DNA improve, augment, or potentiate the chemotherapeutic efficacy of certain anticancer agents.
US08017602B2 N-(2-(2-(5-hydroxy-3-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[b][1,4]oxazin-8-yl)ethylamino)ethyl)-3-(phenethoxy)propanamide derivatives, processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy
The present invention provides a compound of formula (I) wherein W, R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the specification, processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy.
US08017598B2 Compositions of R(+) and S(−) pramipexole and methods of using the same
Compositions of predetermined amounts of R(+) pramipexole and S(−) pramipexole and methods of using the same, including for the treatment and prevention of Parkinson's disease, are provided.
US08017593B2 Tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase-derived polypeptides useful for the regulation of angiogenesis
The invention provides a method for inhibiting ocular neovascularization in a patient. The method comprises administering to a patient an ocular neovascularization inhibiting amount of a water-soluble polypeptide selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 12, SEQ ID NO: 7, and an ocular neovascularization inhibiting fragment thereof, which includes at least one of amino acid residue signature sequences HVGH (SEQ ID NO:10) and KMSAS (SEQ ID NO:11). A method for assaying the angiogenesis inhibiting activity of a composition is also provided.
US08017592B2 RNAi-mediated inhibition of histamine receptor H1-related conditions
RNA interference is provided for inhibition of histamine receptor H1 mRNA expression, in particular, for treating patients having an HRH1-related condition or at risk of developing an HRH1-related condition such as allergic conjunctivitis, ocular inflammation, dermatitis, rhinitis, asthma, or allergy.
US08017590B1 Method of inducing and/or enhancing an immune response to tumor antigens
An improved method of inducing and/or enhancing an immune response to a tumor antigen is disclosed. The method involves administering the tumor antigen, nucleic acid coding therefor, vectors and/or cells comprising said nucleic acid, or vaccines comprising the aforementioned to a lymphatic site.
US08017580B2 Therapies for chronic renal failure
The present invention provides methods for the treatment, and pharmaceuticals for use in the treatment, of mammalian subjects in, or at risk of chronic renal failure, or at risk of a need for renal replacement therapy. The methods involve the administration of certain proteins of, or based upon, the osteogenic protein/bone morphogenetic protein (OP/BMP) family within the TGF-β superfamily of proteins.
US08017576B2 Methods and compositions to treat mucositis
Methods and compositions of AMP-18 derived peptides enablingly demonstrate that AMP-18 derived peptide compositions surprisingly reduce mucositis in mammals. Methods and peptide compositions treat mucositis, delays the onset or duration of mucositis, including cancer therapy-induced mucositis are disclosed. AMP 77-97 peptide derived from human AMP-18 protein alleviates cancer therapy-induced mucositis.
US08017573B2 Adiponectin receptor fragments and methods of use
Methods are disclosed of treating diabetes, abnormal adipocyte activity, and insulin resistance using C-terminal fragments of adiponectin receptor R1. Methods of causing the secretion of insulin in healthy and diabetic patients using C-terminal fragments of adiponectin receptor R1 are also disclosed. In addition, methods are disclosed of increasing the insulin levels in healthy patients using C-terminal fragments of adiponectin receptor R1. In addition, methods of treating abnormal adipocyte activity, treating metabolic syndrome, causing insulin secretion, increasing insulin levels, inhibiting insulin degradation enzyme, treating Alzheimer's disease, treating cardiovascular disease associated with adiponectin levels, inhibiting ADAM-17 enzyme, treating a condition associated with TNF-alpha, and treating a condition associated with HER2-neu are disclosed. Compositions, dosage forms, and kits are also disclosed.
US08017571B2 Peptides derived from human BPLP protein
The invention relates to a peptide that is a maturation product of the Basic Prolin-rich Lacrinal Protein (BPLP) or a peptide derivative of said maturation product, wherein the peptide or peptide derivative exhibits an inhibitory property against a metallo-ectopeptidase, especially NEP and/or APN.The present invention also relates to polynucleotides coding for said peptides and to antibodies directed against said peptides. Furthermore, the present invention relates to diagnostic and therapeutic uses of human BPLP protein and inhibitory peptides derived therefrom, polypeptides coding for human BPLP protein or peptides derived therefrom as well as antibodies directed against BPLP protein or peptides derived therefrom.
US08017568B2 Cleaning residues from semiconductor structures
Supercritical carbon dioxide may be utilized to remove resistant residues such as those residues left when etching dielectrics in fluorine-based plasma gases. The supercritical carbon dioxide may include an oxidizer in one embodiment.
US08017564B2 Lubrication by exposure to light
The present invention concerns a method for a location and/or time-dependent alteration of the friction coefficient and/or adhesion force between two bodies, which includes irradiation of one or both contact surfaces between the bodies with radiation, use of the method according to the invention for location and/or time-dependent alteration of the friction coefficient and/or adhesion force between to bodies, a system that includes two bodies in which the friction coefficient and/or the adhesion force between the bodies can be temporarily or permanently altered, and a device for location and/or time-dependent regulation of the friction coefficient and/or adhesion force which includes the system according to the invention and a control unit.
US08017560B2 Fast dissolving hydroxyalkyl guar derivatives
The present invention relates to hydrophobically modified hydroxyalkyl guar derivatives which dissolve rapidly in water, having a hydroxyalkyl molar substitution between 0.2 and 2.5 and containing hydrophobic groups comprising C10-C32 alkyl chains, to the procedure for their preparation and to their use in the formulation of well fluids.
US08017555B2 Compositions and methods for controlling nematodes
Compositions and processes for controlling nematodes are described herein, e.g., nematodes that infest plants or animals. The compounds include oxazoles, oxadiazoles and thiadiazoles.
US08017548B2 Method for manufacture of noble metal alloy catalysts and catalysts prepared therewith
The present invention provides a method for manufacture of supported noble metal based alloy catalysts with a high degree of alloying and a small crystallite size. The method is based on the use of polyol solvents as reaction medium and comprises of a two-step reduction process in the presence of a support material. In the first step, the first metal (M1=transition metal; e.g. Co, Cr, Ru) is activated by increasing the reaction temperature to 80 to 160° C. In the second step, the second metal (M2=noble metal; e.g. Pt, Pd, Au and mixtures thereof) is added and the slurry is heated to the boiling point of the polyol solvent in a range of 160 to 300° C. Due to this two-step method, an uniform reduction occurs, resulting in noble metal based catalysts with a high degree of alloying and a small crystallite size of less than 3 nm. Due to the high degree of alloying, the lattice constants are lowered. The catalysts manufactured according to the method are used as electrocatalysts for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), direct-methanol fuel cells (DMFC) or as gas phase catalysts for CO oxidation or exhaust gas purification.
US08017543B2 Method for obtaining a homogeneous filtering structure for a catalytic application
The invention relates to a method of obtaining a homogeneous filtering structure for a catalytic application, which can be used as a particulate filter in an internal combustion engine exhaust line, said structure comprising a plurality of honeycomb filter elements in which a homogeneity criterion characteristic of the constituent support material of said elements, in the absence of a catalytic coating, is determined in a prior step, and then the elements making up the structure are selected by means of this homogeneity criterion so as to obtain a structure suitable for homogeneous deposition, within an element and from one element to another, of a catalyst for treating the pollutants in gas phase.The invention also relates to the homogeneous filtration structure obtained by said method.
US08017542B2 Method for production of doped titanium oxide, doped titanium oxide, and visible light-responsive photocatalyst comprising the doped titanium oxide
The present invention provides a doped titanium oxide having visible light-responsiveness whose structure is specified, and a simple production method thereof. By burning with heat a layered structure composite laminated alternately with polymer and the titania, which is obtained using basic polymer having amino group(s) and water-soluble titanium compound, carbon atoms and nitrogen atoms in the polymer are, doped to the crystalline surface of titanium oxide. As making the polymer complex with metal ions beforehand, the metal ions can be also doped to the titanium oxide.
US08017535B2 Water-soluble moisture addition to enhance molding, stiffness, and surface processing of polymer materials
Densified non-woven materials having acoustic and thermal properties are provided. The non-woven material is formed of a thermoplastic material or fibers and a thermoplastic material. The fibers may be an organic, inorganic, or thermoplastic fiber and are desirably devoid of conventional sizing compositions. The densified portion of the non-woven material is formed by applying a moisture additive and subsequently applying heat. Heating the non-woven material causes the water in the moisture additive to turn to steam, which causes a molecular change in the polymer based thermoplastic material(s) of the non-woven material that was treated with the moisture additive. The moisture additive is preferably water, but may include a dilute alkali, a dilute acid, or additives to enhance surface, fire, or mold release characteristics. The water additive may be utilized to surface treat, partially treat, or completely treat the air-laid mat to achieve desired acoustic or thermal properties and/or stiffness.
US08017528B2 Impurity-activating thermal process method and thermal process apparatus
A thermal cycle includes: increasing a temperature from an initial temperature to a temperature T1 at an arbitrary rate R1 (° C./sec); holding the temperature at the temperature T1 for an arbitrary period t1 (sec); increasing the temperature from the temperature T1 to a temperature T2 at a rate R2 (° C./sec) of 1.0×107 (° C./sec) or less; and holding the temperature at the temperature T2 for a period t2 (sec) of 50 msec or less. The thermal cycle thereafter includes: decreasing the temperature from the temperature T2 to the temperature T1 at a rate R1′ (° C./sec) of 1.0×107 (° C./sec) or less; holding the temperature T1 for an arbitrary period t3 (sec); and decreasing the temperature from the temperature T1 to a final temperature at an arbitrary rate R2′ (° C./sec). Such a thermal cycle is successively repeated in a plurality of iterations.
US08017526B2 Gate profile control through effective frequency of dual HF/VHF sources in a plasma etch process
A method of processing a wafer in a plasma, in which target values of two different plasma process parameters are simultaneously realized under predetermined process conditions by setting respective power levels of VHF and HF power simultaneously coupled to the wafer to respective optimum levels.
US08017524B2 Stable, high rate silicon slurry
The invention provides a chemical-mechanical polishing composition comprising wet-process silica, a stabilizer compound, a potassium salt, a secondary amine compound, and water. The invention further provides a method of polishing a substrate with the polishing composition.
US08017522B2 Mechanically robust metal/low-κ interconnects
A mechanically robust semiconductor structure with improved adhesion strength between a low-k dielectric layer and a dielectric-containing substrate is provided. In particular, the present invention provides a structure that includes a dielectric-containing substrate having an upper region including a treated surface layer which is chemically and physically different from the substrate; and a low-k dielectric material located on a the treated surface layer of the substrate. The treated surface layer and the low-k dielectric material form an interface that has an adhesion strength that is greater than 60% of the cohesive strength of the weaker material on either side of the interface. The treated surface is formed by treating the surface of the substrate with at least one of actinic radiation, a plasma and e-beam radiation prior to forming of the substrate the low-k dielectric material.
US08017521B2 Semiconductor package having through-hole vias on saw streets formed with partial saw
A method of forming through-hole vias in a semiconductor wafer involves forming a semiconductor wafer having a plurality of die. A trench is formed between the semiconductor die. The trench extending partially through the semiconductor wafer. The portion of the semiconductor wafer below the trench along a backside of the wafer maintaining structural support for the wafer during the processing steps of forming a plurality of conductive vias between the die, and forming traces to electrically connect the conductive vias to contact pads on the die. The portion of the semiconductor wafer below the trench along the backside of the wafer is removed. The semiconductor wafer is singulated to separate the die. The singulation can be performed through the conductive vias to make half conductive vias or between the conductive vias to make full conductive vias. The die can be stacked and electrically connected through the conductive vias.
US08017517B2 Dual damascene process
A method and system for forming dual damascene structures in a semiconductor package. In one embodiment, the method includes forming an intermediate dielectric layer on a bottom stop layer; forming an ashing removable dielectric layer on the intermediate dielectric layer; forming a patterned photoresist layer above the ashing removable dielectric layer in the semiconductor structure; and defining an in-situ hard mask in the ashing removable dielectric layer having an opening with a profile selected from the group consisting of a via, a trench, or a combination thereof. The profile of the in-situ mask preferably is capable of being transferred to the intermediate dielectric layer by etching.
US08017514B2 Optically transparent wires for secure circuits and methods of making same
A structure and a method. The method includes: forming a dielectric layer on a substrate; forming electrically conductive first and second wires in the dielectric layer, top surfaces of the first and second wires coplanar with a top surface of the dielectric layer; and either (i) forming an electrically conductive third wire on the top surface of the dielectric layer, and over the top surfaces of the first and second wires, the third wire electrically contacting each of the first and second wires, the third wire not detectable by optical microscopy or (ii) forming an electrically conductive third wire between the top surface of the dielectric layer and the substrate, the third wire electrically contacting each of the first and second wires, the third wire not detectable by optical microscopy.
US08017509B2 Growth of monocrystalline GeN on a substrate
The present invention relates a method for forming a monocrystalline GeN layer (4) on a substrate (1) comprising at least a Ge surface (3). The method comprises, while heating the substrate (1) to a temperature between 550° C. and 940° C., exposing the substrate (1) to a nitrogen gas flow. The present invention furthermore provides a structure comprising a monocrystalline GeN layer (4) on a substrate (1). The monocrystalline GeN formed by the method according to embodiments of the invention allows passivation of surface states present at the Ge surface (3).
US08017505B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, comprises; a) forming a SiGe layer on a substrate; b) forming a Si layer on the SiGe layer; c) forming a groove that exposes the side surface of the SiGe layer by partly etching the Si layer and the SiGe layer; and d) forming a hollow portion between the substrate and, the Si layer by etching the SiGe layer via the groove. Step d) further comprises: forming a part of the hollow portion by supplying a new liquid including a fluorinated nitric acid solution to the substrate and etching the SiGe layer, removing the fluorinated nitric acid solution once from the hollow portion that is under formation; and etching the SiGe layer by refilling a new liquid including a fluorinated nitric acid solution to the hollow portion.
US08017501B2 Semiconductor package having through-hole vias on saw streets formed with partial saw
A method of forming through-hole vias in a semiconductor wafer involves forming a semiconductor wafer having a plurality of die with contact pads disposed on a surface of each die. The semiconductor wafer has a saw street between each die. A trench is cut in the saw street without using support material to support the wafer. The trench extends only partially through the wafer. The uncut portion of the saw street below the trench along a backside of the wafer providing structural support for the wafer without support material during formation a plurality of conductive vias in the saw streets adjacent to the contact pads, and electrical connection of the conductive vias to the contact pads. The uncut portion of the saw street below the trench along the backside of the wafer portion is removed. The semiconductor wafer is singulated along the saw street to separate the die.
US08017498B2 Multiple die structure and method of forming a connection between first and second dies in same
A multiple die structure includes a first die (110), a second die (120), a carbon nanotube (130) having a first end (131) in physical contact with the first die and having a second end (132) in physical contact with the second die, and an electrically conductive material (240) in physical contact with the first end of the carbon nanotube and in physical contact with the first die. Forming a connection between the first die and the second die can include providing a connection structure (400, 500, 600, 900) in which the electrically conductive material is adjacent to the carbon nanotube, placing the connection structure adjacent to the first die and to the second die, and bonding the first die and the second die to the connection structure.
US08017495B2 Method of forming isolation layer structure and method of manufacturing a semiconductor device including the same
An isolation layer structure includes first to fourth oxide layer patterns. The first and third oxide layer patterns are sequentially formed in a first trench defined by a first recessed top surface of a substrate and sidewalls of gate structures on the substrate in a first region. The first trench has a first width, and the first and third oxide layer patterns have no void therein. The second and fourth oxide layer patterns are sequentially formed in a second trench defined by a second recessed top surface of the substrate and sidewalls of gate structures on the substrate in a second region. The second trench has a second width larger than the first width, and the fourth oxide layer pattern has a void therein.
US08017494B2 Termination trench structure for mosgated device and process for its manufacture
A process for the fabrication of a MOSgated device that includes a plurality of spaced trenches in the termination region thereof.
US08017492B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor device and semiconductor device with separation along peeling layer
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device according to the present invention is a method for fabricating a semiconductor device including a substrate layer including a plurality of first regions each having an active region and a plurality of second regions each being provided between adjacent ones of the first region. The fabrication method includes an isolation insulation film formation step of forming an isolation insulation film in each of the second regions so that a surface of the isolation insulation film becomes at the same height as that of a surface of a gate oxide film covering the active region, a peeling layer formation step of forming a peeling layer by ion-implanting hydrogen into the substrate layer after the isolation insulation film formation step, and a separation step of separating part of the substrate layer along the peeling layer.
US08017488B2 Manufacturing method of a NOR flash memory with phosphorous and arsenic ion implantations
A manufacturing method of a NOR flash memory with phosphorous and arsenic ion implantations mainly implants both phosphorous and arsenic ions on a drain area of a transistor memory unit, and controls specific energy and dosage for the implantation to reduce the defects of a memory device and improve the yield rate of the NOR flash memory.
US08017487B2 Method to control source/drain stressor profiles for stress engineering
A strained channel transistor structure and methods of forming a semiconductor device are presented. The transistor structure includes a strained channel region having a first semiconductor material with a first natural lattice constant. A gate dielectric layer overlying the strained channel region, a gate electrode overlying the gate dielectric layer and a source region and drain region oppositely adjacent to the strained channel region are provided. One or both of the source region and drain region include a stressor region having a second semiconductor material with a second natural lattice constant different from the first natural lattice constant. The stressor region has graded concentration of a dopant impurity and/or of a stress inducing molecule.
US08017484B2 Transistor device and methods of manufacture thereof
Methods of forming transistor devices and structures thereof are disclosed. A first dielectric material is formed over a workpiece, and a second dielectric material is formed over the first dielectric material. The workpiece is annealed, causing a portion of the second dielectric material to combine with the first dielectric material and form a third dielectric material. The second dielectric material is removed, and a gate material is formed over the third dielectric material. The gate material and the third dielectric material are patterned to form at least one transistor.
US08017483B2 Method of creating asymmetric field-effect-transistors
The present invention provides a method of forming asymmetric field-effect-transistors. The method includes forming at least a first and a second gate-mask stack on top of a semiconductor substrate, wherein the first and second gate-mask stacks include at least, respectively, a first and a second gate conductor of a first and a second transistor and have, respectively, a top surface, a first side, and a second side with the second side being opposite to the first side; performing a first halo implantation from the first side of the first and second gate-mask stacks at a first angle while applying the first gate-mask stack in preventing the first halo implantation from reaching a first source/drain region of the second transistor, wherein the first angle is equal to or larger than a predetermined value; and performing a second halo implantation from the second side of the first and second gate-mask stacks at a second angle, thereby creating halo implant in a second source/drain region of the second transistor, wherein the first and second angles are measured against a normal to the substrate.
US08017480B2 Apparatus and associated method for making a floating gate cell in a virtual ground array
A method for fabricating a floating gate memory device comprises using thin buried diffusion regions with increased encroachment by a buried diffusion oxide layer into the buried diffusion layer and underneath the tunnel oxide under the floating gate. Further, the floating gate polysilicon layer has a larger height than the buried diffusion height. The increased step height of the gate polysilicon layer to the buried diffusion layer, and the increased encroachment of the buried diffusion oxide, can produce a higher GCR, while still allowing decreased cell size using a virtual ground array design.
US08017479B2 Semiconductor device having multi-channel and method of fabricating the same
An embodiment of the present invention relates to a semiconductor device having a multi-channel and a method of fabricating the same. In an aspect, the semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate in which isolation layers are formed, a plurality of trenches formed within an active region of the semiconductor substrate, and a channel active region configured to connect opposite sidewalls within each trench region and having a surface used as a channel region.
US08017478B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device includes a memory cell gate structure having a first gate insulating film, a first gate electrode, a second gate insulating film, and a second gate electrode, a select gate structure having a third gate insulating film and a third gate electrode including a first electrode portion, a second electrode portion, and a third electrode portion between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion, a first impurity diffusion layer formed in a surface area of the semiconductor substrate and located at a portion which corresponds to an area between the memory cell gate structure and the first electrode portion, and a second impurity diffusion layer formed in a surface area of the semiconductor substrate and located at a portion which corresponds to an area between the first electrode portion and second electrode portion.
US08017470B2 Method of forming a structure over a semiconductor substrate
The invention includes a method of forming a structure over a semiconductor substrate. A silicon dioxide containing layer is formed across at least some of the substrate. Nitrogen is formed within the silicon dioxide containing layer. Substantially all of the nitrogen within the silicon dioxide is at least 10 Å above the substrate. After the nitrogen is formed within the silicon dioxide layer, conductively doped silicon is formed on the silicon dioxide layer.
US08017469B2 Dual high-k oxides with sige channel
A method and apparatus are described for integrating dual gate oxide (DGO) transistor devices (50, 52) and core transistor devices (51, 53) on a single substrate (15) having a silicon germanium channel layer (21) in the PMOS device areas (112, 113), where each DGO transistor device (50, 52) includes a metal gate (25), an upper gate oxide region (60, 84) formed from a second, relatively higher high-k metal oxide layer (24), and a lower gate oxide region (58, 84) formed from a first relatively lower high-k layer (22), and where each core transistor device (51, 53) includes a metal gate (25) and a core gate dielectric layer (72, 98) formed from only the second, relatively higher high-k metal oxide layer (24).
US08017460B2 Method of manufacturing flat panel display
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a flat panel display. Herein, the same mask is used to form contact holes and pixel electrodes in the display substrate. Hence, the number of masks needed for manufacturing the flat panel display can be reduced to decrease the manufacturing cost.
US08017456B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
The aperture ratio of a pixel of a reflecting type display device is improved without increasing the number of masks and without using a black mask. Locations for light shielding between pixels are arranged such that a pixel electrode overlaps with a portion of a gate wiring and a source wiring. In locations for shielding TFTs, a high pixel aperture ratio is realized by forming a color filter (red, or lamination of red and blue), formed on an opposing substrate.
US08017444B2 Adhesive sheet, semiconductor device, and process for producing semiconductor device
An object of the present invention is to provide an adhesive sheet that can fill irregularities due to wiring of a substrate or a wire attached to a semiconductor chip, etc., does not form resin burrs during dicing, and has satisfactory heat resistance and moisture resistance. The present invention relates to an adhesive sheet comprising 100 parts by weight of a resin comprising 15 to 40 wt % of a high molecular weight component containing a crosslinking functional group and having a weight-average molecular weight of 100,000 or greater and a Tg of −50° C. to 50° C., and 60 to 85 wt % of a thermosetting component containing an epoxy resin as a main component, and 40 to 180 parts by weight of a filler, the adhesive sheet having a thickness of 10 to 250 μm.
US08017438B2 Semiconductor module with at least two substrates
A semiconductor module includes a module package including a first substrate having a first semiconductor device and a second substrate having a second semiconductor device. A first outer conductor extends from the module package and is connected to the first substrate and a second outer conductor extends from the module package and is connected to the second substrate. A method for producing the semiconductor module includes attaching first outer conductors of a leadframe to a first substrate, where the first substrate includes a first semiconductor device that is attached to the first substrate either before or after attaching the first outer conductors. A second substrate is provided including a signal processing circuit and the second substrate is fastening to second outer conductors of the leadframe.
US08017435B2 Method for packaging electronic devices and integrated circuits
The present invention relates to the field of electronic devices and their associated driver and/or controller integrated circuits and in particular to the mechanical packaging of electronic devices and to the packaging of electronic devices and their associated driver and/or controller integrated circuits.
US08017429B2 Method for manufacturing photoelectric conversion device
The purpose is manufacturing a photoelectric conversion device with excellent photoelectric conversion characteristics typified by a solar cell with effective use of a silicon material. A single crystal silicon layer is irradiated with a laser beam through an optical modulator to form an uneven structure on a surface thereof. The single crystal silicon layer is obtained in the following manner; an embrittlement layer is formed in a single crystal silicon substrate; one surface of a supporting substrate and one surface of an insulating layer formed over the single crystal silicon substrate are disposed to be in contact and bonded; heat treatment is performed; and the single crystal silicon layer is formed over the supporting substrate by separating part of the single crystal silicon substrate fixed to the supporting substrate along the embrittlement layer or a periphery of the embrittlement layer. Then, irradiation with a laser beam is performed on a separation surface of the single crystal silicon layer through an optical modulator which modulates light intensity regularly, and unevenness is formed on the surface. Due to the unevenness, reflection of incident light is reduced and absorptance with respect to light is improved, therefore, photoelectric conversion efficiency of the photoelectric conversion device is improved.
US08017427B2 Backside-illuminated (BSI) image sensor with backside diffusion doping
Embodiments of a process comprising forming a pixel on a front side of a substrate, thinning the substrate, depositing a doped silicon layer on a backside of the thinned substrate, and diffusing a dopant from the doped silicon layer into the substrate. Embodiments of an apparatus comprising a pixel formed on a front side of a thinned substrate, a doped silicon layer formed on a backside of the thinned substrate, and a region in the thinned substrate, and near the backside, where a dopant has diffused from the doped silicon layer into the thinned substrate. Other embodiments are disclosed and claimed.
US08017426B2 Color filter array alignment mark formation in backside illuminated image sensors
A backside illuminated image sensor includes a sensor layer comprising photosensitive elements of the pixel array, an epitaxial layer formed on a frontside surface of the sensor layer, and a color filter array formed on a backside surface of the sensor layer. The epitaxial layer comprises polysilicon color filter array alignment marks formed in locations corresponding to respective color filter array alignment mark openings in the frontside surface of the sensor layer. The color filter array is aligned to the color filter array alignment marks of the epitaxial layer. The image sensor may be implemented in a digital camera or other type of digital imaging device.
US08017421B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor light emitting device
Provided is a method of manufacturing semiconductor light emitting devices including: forming light emitting structures by sequentially depositing a first material layer, an active layer and a second material layer; forming the roughness pattern on a region of the bottom of a substrate except at least a cleaving region for forming cleaving planes; and forming n-electrodes.
US08017420B2 Method of forming optical waveguide
Provided is a method of forming optical waveguide. The method includes forming a trench on a semiconductor substrate to define an active portion, and partially oxidizing the active portion. An non-oxidized portion of the active portion is included in a core through which an optical signal passes, and an oxidized portion of the active portion is included in a cladding.
US08017405B2 Gas analysis method
The present invention provides a method for analyzing gases such as carbon dioxide, and includes passing a gas stream containing impurities into a gas adsorption means for a length of time at ambient or higher temperatures to adsorb the impurities therein, stopping the flow of the gas stream, and desorbing and analyzing the impurities using a detector.
US08017404B2 Steroid hormone assay method
The level of a steroid hormone, including estrogen, in the stratum corneum of the skin is assayed by LC-MS analysis of a steroid hormone in the stratum corneum of the skin collected by a tape stripping method. This allows the concentration in the skin of the steroid hormone, including estrogen which has an important effect on the state of the skin, to be easily measured.
US08017403B2 Mass spectrometry method for measuring vitamin B6 in body fluid
Provided are methods of detecting the presence or amount of the active form of vitamin B6, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, in a body fluid sample using tandem mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography.
US08017401B2 Method for determining redox activity and screening compounds based on redox activity
A method for identifying the redox activity of a subject compound is disclosed. The method can be performed aerobically and can include forming a mixture comprising a free-radical precursor and a compound to be tested, and converting the free-radical precursor into a free-radical anion and a free-radical cation. After the free radical cation and the free radical anion have been formed, the relative redox activity of the subject compound may cause a difference in the rate of photo-bleaching of the mixture and/or the rate of superoxide generation. These differences can be quantified and used to identify the redox activity of the subject compound. This sensitive technique for measuring redox activity can be used to screen compounds for various biological applications. Drugs also can be developed based on the relationship between redox activity and biological activity for particular biological applications.
US08017398B2 Method for assaying protein-protein interaction
The invention relates to a method for determining if a test compound, or a mix of compounds, modulates the interaction between two proteins of interest. The determination is made possible via the use of two recombinant molecules, one of which contains the first protein a cleavage site for a proteolytic molecules, and an activator of a gene. The second recombinant molecule includes the second protein and the proteolytic molecule. If the test compound binds to the first protein, a reaction is initiated whereby the activator is cleaved, and activates a reporter gene.
US08017395B2 Seeding cells on porous supports
The present invention generally relates to a method for seeding cells on to a support. In particular, the method relates to a method for seeding cells onto a porous hydrophobic support. The method utilizes centrifugal forces to uniformly guide cell seeding into the support with no loss in viability.
US08017392B2 Hox11+, CD45− cells and methods of organ regeneration using the same
The invention features methods for increasing or maintaining the number of functional cells of a predetermined type in a mammal (e.g., a human patient), for example, the insulin producing cells of the pancreas, liver cells, spleen cells, or bone cells, that has injured or damaged cells of the predetermined type or is deficient in cells of the predetermined type.
US08017390B2 Method for the preparation of dermal papilla tissue employing mesenchymal stem cells
A method for the preparation of dermal papilla tissue comprising the step of culturing mesenchymal stem cells in a medium having a specific composition is provided. The method makes it possible to form in vitro a quantity of dermal papilla tissues having hair follicle inducting ability and, accordingly, it can be effectively used for the treatment of alopecia through cell transplantation.
US08017385B2 Use of apotosis inhibiting compounds in degenerative neurological disorders
The invention provides methods and compositions for localized delivery of a vector comprising a therapeutic agent to a specific region of the brain associated with a neurodegenerative diseases that is characterized by an excess buildup of buildup of intracellular protein aggregates. In particular, the invention provides methods and compositions used to deliver an adeno-associated virus vector (AAV) comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding an inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) to cells in the region.
US08017384B2 Modular membrane supported bioreactor for conversion of syngas components to liquid products
A modular membrane supported bioreactor for anaerobic conversion of gas into liquid products including membrane module(s) having a plurality of hollow fibers packed across a cross sectional area of the membrane module in a direction transverse to the axis of the membrane module; a membrane vessel for retaining the membrane module(s) at least partially submerged in a process liquid and isolated from ambient atmosphere; and a gas supply conduit operably connected to the hollow fibers for supplying a process gas to the hollow fiber lumens. The gas supply conduit enables the formation of a biofilm on the outer surface of the hollow fiber wall by interaction of microorganisms with the process gas and the production of a liquid product that mixes with the process liquid.
US08017377B1 Mass culture of microalgae for lipid production
A method to produce high density microalgae having high lipid concentration in mass culture including the steps of inoculating a vessel with microalgae at mid-log phase to a depth greater than 25 cm. Then culturing the microalgae to a preselected target density threshold, bringing the microalgae to stationary phase, manipulating growth parameters to maximize lipid concentration and harvesting the vessel.
US08017376B2 Methods of increasing dihydroxy acid dehydratase activity to improve production of fuels, chemicals, and amino acids
The present invention is directed to recombinant microorganisms comprising one or more dihydroxyacid dehydratase (DHAD)-requiring biosynthetic pathways and methods of using said recombinant microorganisms to produce beneficial metabolites derived from said DHAD-requiring biosynthetic pathways. In various aspects of the invention, the recombinant microorganisms may be engineered to overexpress one or more polynucleotides encoding one or more Aft proteins or homologs thereof. In some embodiments, the recombinant microorganisms may comprise a cytosolically localized DHAD enzyme. In additional embodiments, the recombinant microorganisms may comprise a mitochondrially localized DHAD enzyme. In various embodiments described herein, the recombinant microorganisms may be microorganisms of the Saccharomyces clade, Crabtree-negative yeast microorganisms, Crabtree-positive yeast microorganisms, post-WGD (whole genome duplication) yeast microorganisms, pre-WGD (whole genome duplication) yeast microorganisms, and non-fermenting yeast microorganisms.
US08017374B2 Processes for decolorization of colored effluents
The present invention relates to a novel process for decolorization of colored effluents. More particularly it relates to a process for decolorization of colored effluents of textile mills, dye-making industries, paper and pulp industries and molasses spent wash from alcohol distilleries using an unidentified white-rot marine fungus NIOCC #2a isolated from mangrove wood and deposited on Sep. 7, 2004 in the microbial type culture collection (MTCC) of the Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India, under the accession number MTCC 5159. Further, this invention relates to decolorization of these effluents using the fungus directly, its cell-free culture supernatant or immobilized fungus or extracellular polymeric substances produced by the fungus. Furthermore, the decolorization of effluents can be carried out from 30° C. to 60° C. and at pH 3 to 6. The decolorization of various colored effluents occurs in the presence of sea water with 25 parts per thousand salinity. Several synthetic dyes are also decolorized under similar conditions of temperature and pH by using free mycelia or immobilized fungus or extracellular culture fluids or extracellular polymeric substances.
US08017371B2 Hybrid polypeptide of a maltogenic alpha-amylase and a cyclodextrin glucanotransferase
The inventors realized that the diversity generated by conventional methods may be limited by steric hindrance between amino acid residues in the three-dimensional structures of the resulting polypeptides. The steric hindrance may occur between amino acid residues at widely different positions in the amino acid sequences, e.g. between residues in two different domains of the 3D structure, and resulting polypeptides which include such steric hindrance may never be observed in the conventional recombination methods because they may be expressed in poor yields or may have poor activity or stability. The inventors developed a method to identify and alleviate such steric hindrance in the resulting polypeptides. In an alignment of the three-dimensional structures, steric hindrance is indicated when residues from two different structures are located within a certain distance. Pairs of residues at corresponding positions in the amino acid sequences are not considered, and residues close to the surface (high solvent accessibility) are considered to be less prone to steric hindrance.
US08017370B2 Manipulation of organic acid biosynthesis and secretion
The present invention relates to nucleic acid fragments encoding amino acid sequences for organic acid biosynthetic enzymes in plants, and the use thereof for the modification of, for example, organic acid biosynthesis and secretion in plants. In particularly preferred embodiments, the invention relates to the combinatorial expression of citrate synthase (CS) and/or malate dehydrogenase (MDH) and/or phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) in plants to modify, for example, organic acid synthesis and secretion.
US08017369B2 System and method of up-regulating bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) gene expression in bone cells via the application of fields generated by specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals
Methods and devices are described for the regulation of bone morphogenetic protein gene expression in bone cells via the application of fields generated by specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals in the treatment of diseased or injured bone. By gene expression is meant the up-regulation or down-regulation of the process whereby specific portions (genes) of the human genome (DNA) are transcribed into mRNA and subsequently translated into protein. Methods and devices are provided for the targeted treatment of injured or diseased bone tissue that include generating specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals that generate fields optimized for increase of bone morphogenetic protein gene expression and exposing bone to the fields generated by specific and selective signals so as to regulate bone morphogenetic protein gene expression in such bone tissue. The resulting methods and devices are useful for the targeted treatment of bone fractures, fractures at risk, delayed unions, nonunion of fractures, bone defects, spine fusions, osteonecrosis or avascular necrosis, as an adjunct to other therapies in the treatment of one or all of the above, and in the treatment of osteoporosis.
US08017366B1 Self-contained biofuel production and water processing apparatus
A system for making biofuels comprising methane, ethanol, and biodiesel comprises a tank (100) with a sealable lid (120). An algae mass (105), water, and either a yeast or bacterial culture (106) is added to the tank. Under high temperature conditions, sour (CO2-containing) methane is produced and stored in a container (130). Under lower temperature conditions, ethanol and CO2 are produced. Heated or cooled water passed through a water jacket (160) that surrounds the tank maintains the proper temperature within the tank. The CO2 is stored in a second container (270). The sour methane and the CO2 are optionally passed through a scrubber. Scrubbed methane is suitable for use as a fuel and drives a generator (275) that supplies power to various parts of the system. Carbon credits will be available for CO2 that is trapped in the scrubber. A still (185) separates ethanol and water for later use. Biodiesel can also be made in the apparatus by first making ethanol, then employing a transesterification process.
US08017361B2 Enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic feedstocks using accessory enzymes
Provided is an enzyme mixture for hydrolyzing a pretreated lignocellulosic feedstock to soluble sugars. The enzyme mixture comprises EG4 at a fractional concentration (fEG4) of about 0.25 to about 0.83 (w/w), Swollenin at a fractional concentration (fSwo1) of about 0 to about 0.66 (w/w), and Cip1 at a fractional concentration (fCip1) of 0 to about 0.33 measured relative to all accessory enzymes present in the enzyme mixture. Also provided are processes for converting a pretreated lignocellulosic feedstock to soluble sugars using the enzyme mixtures, and methods of using and producing such enzyme mixtures.
US08017358B2 Method for rapid detection and identification of bioagents
Method for detecting and identifying unknown bioagents, including bacteria, viruses and the like, by a combination of nucleic acid amplification and molecular weight determination using primers which hybridize to conserved sequence regions of nucleic acids derived from a bioagent and which bracket variable sequence regions that uniquely identify the bioagent. The result is a “base composition signature” (BCS) which is then matched against a database of base composition signatures, by which the bioagent is identified.
US08017352B2 Seafood spoilage indicator
An enzyme based nondestructive sensor for the qualitative detection of spoilage in seafood is provided wherein the sensor does not alter the physical composition of the seafood specimen. The sensor comprises a sampling matrix, at least three or more enzymes in contact with the sampling matrix, and at least one indicator compound in contact with the sampling matrix. The enzymes are capable of interacting with four target chemicals comprising putrescine, cadaverine, histamine and tyramine, which are located on the surface of the seafood specimen. The indicator compound is capable of changing the color of the sampling matrix thereby indicating a qualitative visually detectable color change. A method for the nondestructive detection of the quality of a seafood specimen at any given time and for determining the remaining usable shelf life of the seafood specimen is disclosed.
US08017349B2 Human neuronal attachment factor-1
A human F-spondin-like protein and DNA (RNA) encoding such protein and a procedure for producing such protein by recombinant techniques is disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing such polypeptide for treating spinal cord injuries and damage to peripheral nerves by promoting neural-cell adhesion and neurite extension, inhibiting tumor metastases and tumor angiogenesis, and stimulating wound repair. Antagonists are also disclosed which may be utilized to prevent malaria. Diagnostic assays for identifying mutations in nucleic acid sequence encoding a polypeptide of the present invention and for detecting altered levels of the polypeptide of the present invention for detecting diseases, for example, cancer, are also disclosed.
US08017345B2 Diagnostic kit for malignant melanoma
The object of the present invention is to find out another tumor marker which is useful for early diagnosis of melanoma, and provide a diagnostic kit and diagnostic method for malignant melanoma using such marker. The present invention provides a diagnostic kit for malignant melanoma, which comprises an antibody against SPARC and an antibody against GPC3.
US08017344B2 Methods for detecting Th1 cells
The inventors discovered that the adhesion molecule CAR, known to be localized in intracellular adhesion sites, functioned as an adhesion molecule for activated lymphocytes. Further, the inventors identified CARL, a novel CAR ligand expressed in lymphocytes, and clarified that the ligand was expressed selectively in Th1 cells. In addition, they found that anti-CAR antibodies could inhibit the adhesion of activated lymphocytes to CAR molecules. Thus, the present invention provides methods for detecting Th1 cells using CAR or anti-CARL antibodies, and methods of screening for inhibitors suppressing the adhesion of Th1 cells using the binding between CAR and CARL as an index. Furthermore, the present invention relates to methods of screening for inhibitors of the binding between CAR and CARL, antibodies that inhibit the binding between CAR and CARL, and therapeutic compositions comprising these antibodies. These are expected to be useful in diagnosing diseases, such as inflammation, in which infiltration of Th1 cells is involved, and in providing pharmaceutical agents for alleviating such diseases.
US08017343B2 Cytokine zalpha11 ligand antibodies and methods of use
Antibodies that bind to polypeptides and peptides comprising the sequence of zalpha11 Ligand as shown in SEQ ID NO: 2 are described. The antibodies may bind the full length sequence of 162 amino acid residues or a fragment thereof, including a mature polypeptide of 131 amino acid residues and smaller polypeptide and peptide sequences. The antibodies may include antibodies that are polyclonal, monoclonal, murine, humanized or neutralizing. Methods for producing the antibodies are also described.
US08017342B2 Solid phase immobilization of phospholipids and cofactor proteins via covalent attachment
The present invention provides methods and reagents for detecting anti-phospholipid-cofactor protein-antibodies.
US08017340B2 Nucleic acid separation and amplification
The present invention relates to methods for the extraction of nucleic acids from cells, the amplification of segments of nucleic acid and the detection of nucleic acids, all in a convenient and portable manner. In one embodiment, a sample comprising cells containing nucleic acid is exposed to an aqueous mixture comprising a lytic reagent and one or more beads capable of binding the nucleic acid released from said cells to form a nucleic acid-bead complex. The nucleic acid-bead complex is passed through an immiscible liquid layer to separate the nucleic acid from the aqueous mixture. The one or more beads are magnetic, and the nucleic acid-bead complex is passed through and separated from the immiscible liquid layer with an applied magnetic field. The invention is particularly suited for use in point-of-care medical diagnostics testing.
US08017338B2 Reversible di-nucleotide terminator sequencing
The present teachings provide methods, compositions, and kits for synthesizing and sequencing nucleic acids. In some embodiments, reversible di-nucleotide compounds are employed along with cleaving reactions that remove a label and a blocking moiety. Improved sequencing efficiency is achieved by the rapid polymerase-mediated incorporation of reversible di-nucleotide compounds. In some embodiments, the di-nucleotides do not contain conventional nucleotide triphosphates, but rather employ amino acid phosphoramidate nucleotides (AAPNs).
US08017334B2 Method for testing dysgeusia or stress by comparing expression patterns of taste receptor genes
A method for testing dysgeusia, which is characterized in that it comprises amplifying at least a portion of a gene encoding a taste receptor belonging to the THTR family and a gene encoding a taste receptor belonging to the T2R family collected from a sample derived from the oral cavity; a primer used for the above amplification; and a kit used for the above test.
US08017331B2 IRE-1α substrates
IRE-1α substrates useful for identifying agonists and antagonists of IRE-1α RNase activity.
US08017326B2 Methods of modulating cell death based on the Bit-1/AES regulatory pathway
The present invention provides a method of identifying an effective agent that alters the association of a Bit1 polypeptide with an AES polypeptide. The method is practiced by contacting a Bit1 polypeptide, or active fragment thereof, and an AES polypeptide, or active fragment thereof, with an agent under conditions that allow the Bit1 polypeptide or active fragment thereof to associate with the AES polypeptide or active fragment thereof; and detecting an altered association of the Bit1 polypeptide or active fragment thereof and the AES polypeptide or active fragment thereof, where an altered association indicates that the agent is an effective agent that alters the association of a Bit1 polypeptide with an AES polypeptide. Such an effective agent can modulate apoptosis and can be a useful therapeutic agent.
US08017325B2 Selection of high-producing cell lines
The invention describes a method for screening antibody producing cell lines for selection of high expressing clones.
US08017319B2 Evanescence-based multiplex sequencing method
The invention relates to a method and a device for evanescence-based multiplex sequencing of nucleic acid molecules immobilized on a support.
US08017316B2 Methods and compositions for the identification of insect repellent compounds
Methods for identifying a candidate compound with an ability to modulate cation transport through a transient receptor potential (TRP) channel in a cell are disclosed. The methods can include (a) providing a cell expressing a recombinant nucleic acid sequence encoding an transient receptor potential (TRP) channel gene product or a functional fragment or derivative thereof; (b) contacting the cell with the candidate compound; (c) comparing cation transport in the cell in the absence of the candidate compound with cation transport in the cell in the presence of the candidate compound; and (d) identifying a candidate compound through the comparing step that modulates cation transport in the cell through the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel. Also disclosed are nucleic acid and amino acid sequences for insect TRP channel gene products, antibodies that bind to the disclosed TRP channels, and recombinant host cells the include the disclosed biosequences.
US08017315B2 Mitochondrial localization of MUC1
The invention provides methods of identifying and making compounds that inhibit the interaction between MUC1 and either or both of HSP70 and HSP90. Also embraced by the invention are in vivo and in vitro methods of inhibiting such an interaction.
US08017314B2 Immersion sensor for measuring the concentration of an analyte with the help of an oxidase
The invention relates to measuring the concentration of analytes with the aid of an oxidase in an immersion sensor situated in a fluid or in a matrix containing fluid. Oxygen diffuses into the enzyme layer from within, from a gas-filled space connected to the atmosphere and/or to an oxygen reservoir. This enables oxygen saturation of the oxidase in a low-oxygen or oxygen-free medium and/or at high analyte concentrations. The analyte diffuses into the enzyme layer in a channel or a number of channels which contain(s) water and limit(s) diffusion, wherein the channel/channels on the surface of the sensor is/are filled with a protein-impermeable, hydrophilic matrix. By increasing the channel cross-section on the surface of the sensor and/or by connecting the channel/channels to a protein-impermeable, porous, hydrophilic layer on the surface of the sensor, the effect of outer deposits on the diffusion resistance of the analyte is reduced.
US08017313B2 Human G protein-coupled receptor and modulators thereof for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders
The present invention relates to methods of identifying whether a candidate compound is a modulator of a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). In some embodiments, the GPCR is mammalian, preferably human. In some embodiments, the GPCR is expressed endogenously by cardiomyocytes. In some embodiments, the GPCR is coupled to Gq. In some embodiments, the GPCR increases the intracellular level of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3). In some embodiments, a modulator of the GPCR is a modulator of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. The present invention further relates to methods of using a modulator of the GPCR. Preferred modulators are inverse agonists and antagonists. Inverse agonists and antagonists of the invention are useful as therapeutic agents for the prevention or treatment of heart disease, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure, in particular hypertrophic cardiomyopathy resulting from post-myocardial infarction remodeling, cardiac valve disease, sustained cardiac afterload, myocarditis, and familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
US08017305B2 Pattern forming method, semiconductor device manufacturing method and exposure mask set
First, a first exposure process is performed using dipole illumination with only a grating-pattern forming region as a substantial object to be exposed. Next, a second exposure process is performed with only a standard-pattern forming region as a substantial object to be exposed. A development process is then performed to obtain a resist pattern. A mask for the first exposure process is such that a light blocking pattern is formed on the whole surface of a standard-pattern mask part corresponding to the standard-pattern forming region. A mask for the second exposure is such that a light blocking pattern is formed on the whole surface of a grating-pattern mask part corresponding to the grating-pattern forming region.
US08017303B2 Ultra low post exposure bake photoresist materials
Polymers comprising a first methacrylate monomer having a pendent spacer between the polymer backbone and an acid-liable acetal group, a second methacrylate monomer having a pendent group including a fluorinated alkyl group and a third methacrylate monomer having a pendent hydrocarbon group. Photoresist formulations include the polymers, a photoacid generator and a casting solvent. Methods of patterning photoresist films formed from the photoresist formulations are characterized by post-exposure bakes at temperatures of about 60° C. or less.
US08017302B2 Positive resist compositions and patterning process
A positive resist composition comprises (A) a resin component which becomes soluble in an alkaline developer under the action of an acid and (B) an acid generator. The resin (A) is a polymer comprising specific recurring units, represented by formula (1). The acid generator (B) is a specific sulfonium salt compound. When processed by lithography, the composition is improved in resolution and forms a pattern with a minimal LER. Herein R1 is H or methyl, R2 is an acid labile group, R3 is CO2R4 when X is CH2, R3 is H or CO2R4 when X is O, R4 is a monovalent C1-C20 hydrocarbon group, and m is 1 or 2.
US08017300B2 Compound, positive resist composition and method for forming resist pattern
Disclosed are a compound that can be used for a resist composition, a positive resist composition that includes the compound, and a method for forming a resist pattern.Specifically disclosed is a compound represented by a formula (A-1). In the formula (A-1), R11 to R17 each represents an alkyl group or an aromatic hydrocarbon group; g and j each represents an integer of 1 or greater, and k and q each represents an integer of 0 or greater, provided that g+j+k+q is not greater than 5; b represents an integer of 1 or greater, and l and m each represents an integer of 0 or greater, provided that b+l+m is not greater than 4; c represents an integer of 1 or greater, and n and o each represents an integer of 0 or greater, provided that c+n+o is not greater than 4; A represents a trivalent aromatic cyclic group, alkyl group or aliphatic cyclic group, or a trivalent organic group having an aromatic cyclic group or an aliphatic cyclic group; and Z represents a group represented by a formula (z1). In the formula (z1), Y represents an alkylene group, a divalent aromatic hydrocarbon group or aliphatic cyclic group, or a divalent organic group having an aromatic hydrocarbon group or an aliphatic cyclic group; and R′ represents an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group.
US08017299B2 Positive resist composition and pattern forming method using the same
A positive resist composition for electron beam, X-ray or EUV exposure, including (A) a resin capable of decomposing by the action of an acid to increase the solubility in an alkali developer; and (B) a compound capable of generating a sulfonic acid upon irradiation with an actinic ray or radiation, wherein the resin (A) is a resin having a phenolic hydroxyl group and having a weight average molecular weight of 1,500 to 3,500, the positive resist composition has a property of decomposing by the action of an acid and causing the dissolution rate in an aqueous 2.38 wt % tetramethylammonium hydroxide solution at 23° C. under normal pressure to increase in a range of 200 to 5,000 times, and the positive resist composition has a solid content concentration of from 2.5 to 4.5 mass %.
US08017292B2 Toner, as well as image forming apparatus and image forming method using the same
To provide a toner produced by emulsifying or dispersing in an aqueous medium particles containing at least polyester resin particles and by aggregating the polyester resin particles, wherein the polyester resin particles contain a polyester resin, the polyester resin is produced by condensation polymerization of an alcohol component containing 65 mol % or more 1,2-propanediol in a dihydroxy alcohol component and a carboxylic acid component containing purified rosin, and the softening point of the polyester resin is 80° C. or more and less than 120° C., and wherein the toner comprises a colorant and a releasing agent.
US08017284B2 Electrode for a fuel cell, and a membrane-electrode assembly and fuel cell system comprising the same
The present invention relates to an electrode for a fuel cell which includes an electrode substrate composed of nano-carbon fiber, with a catalyst layer formed on the electrode substrate. The electrode substrate has a better strength than an electrode substrate composed of a conventional carbonaceous material, and a pore size which can be controlled even though the composition for forming the catalyst layer may be coated in the form of a slurry.
US08017281B2 Membrane-electrode assembly for fuel cell with catalyst layer having a first and a second porosity
The membrane-electrode assembly for a fuel cell includes a polymer electrolyte membrane, and an anode and a cathode disposed on each side of the polymer electrolyte membrane and including a catalyst layer. The catalyst layer has a first catalyst layer that has a porosity of less than or equal to about 40% and is disposed to contact the polymer electrolyte membrane, and a second catalyst layer that has a porosity of more than or equal to about 50% and is disposed on the first catalyst layer.
US08017280B2 Metal fluid distribution plate with an adhesion promoting layer and polymeric layer
In at least one embodiment, the present invention provides an electrically conductive fluid distribution plate and a method of making, and system for using, the electrically conductive fluid distribution plate. In at least one embodiment, the plate comprises an electrically conductive fluid distribution plate comprising a metallic plate body defining a set of fluid flow channels configured to distribute flow of a fluid across at least one side of the plate, a metal-containing adhesion promoting layer having a thickness less than 100 nm disposed on the plate body, and a composite polymeric conductive layer disposed on the metal-containing adhesion promoting layer.
US08017275B2 Fuel cell system
An ejector is provided with a first fluid chamber into which hydrogen gas is introduced; a rod-shaped needle; a nozzle exhausting hydrogen gas introduced into the first fluid chamber from an exhaust port; a second fluid chamber into which hydrogen off-gas is introduced; a diffuser provided at the exhaust port of the nozzle; and a third fluid chamber into which air is introduced. The first fluid chamber is provided between the second fluid chamber and the third fluid chamber. The first diaphragm 65 separates the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber and the second diaphragm separates the first chamber and the third fluid chamber. Then, the needle and the nozzle moves to approach each other by the pressure of air introduced into the third fluid chamber and isolate each other by the pressure of hydrogen off-gas introduced into the second fluid chamber.
US08017274B2 Fuel cell
A fuel cell is provided which can enhance the CO resistance to thereby improve the voltage characteristics thereof. A fuel cell includes an electrolyte layer, a first electrode provided on one surface of the electrolyte layer, and a second electrode provided on the other surface of the electrolyte layer. In this fuel cell, a reaction fluid to be supplied to the first electrode contains carbon monoxide or carbon monoxide is generated from a reaction fluid having been supplied to the first electrode. The first electrode of the fuel cell includes a first catalyst material (Pt) having a function of extracting an electron from the reaction fluid, a second catalyst material (WAu) having a function of reducing the activation energy for conversion of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, and an oxygen-supplying material (Ru) supplying oxygen.
US08017271B2 Alkaline electrochemical cell with a blended zinc powder
An electrochemical cell with a blended zinc powder is disclosed. The blended zinc powder includes selected portions of a first zinc powder and a second zinc powder. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second powders are divided into groups based on ranges in their particle size distribution. Particle characteristics such as roughness and elongation are used to selected groups of both powders that are combined to produce the blended zinc powder. The blended zinc powders enable battery manufacturers to maximize the cell's run time while minimizing the cost of the zinc.
US08017264B2 Lithium secondary battery with high safety and manufacturing method thereof
A lithium secondary battery capable of preventing explosion or firing caused by the increase of inner pressure due to misusage is disclosed. The lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly having an anode plate, a cathode plate and a separator, a package having a receiving portion for receiving the electrode assembly and sealed and filled with electrolyte together with the electrode assembly, and an adhesive layer at least partially formed on an outer surface of the package. The lithium secondary battery functions as an explosion-proof safety device for preventing the package from exploding due to abrupt breakage of the package when the package is expanded due to the increase of inner pressure of the battery over a critical value.
US08017254B2 Organic electroluminescence device
An organic electroluminescence device of multi-photon emission mode which includes plural light emission layers and at least one charge generation layer between a pair of electrodes, arranged in a film thickness direction thereof, wherein the charge generation layer includes at least one p-doped layer and at least one n-doped layer, and further includes an alkali metal layer and a layer containing a hole transport material between the p-doped layer and the n-doped layer. An organic electroluminescence device of multi-photon emission mode exhibiting little unevenness in luminance even in a large-area format electroluminescence device is provided.
US08017248B2 Fuser member having fluorinated polyimide outer layer
A fuser member having a substrate, and thereover, an outer layer including a fluorinated polyimide, and an image forming apparatus including the fuser member, and the fuser member may useful in oil-less fusing systems, and wherein the fluorinated polyimide has the following Formula I wherein Ar represents a fluorinated hydrocarbon group; Rf1 represents a fluorine-containing group and Q is a end group, n is a number of from about 20 to about 1,000 carbons, and o is 0 or 1.
US08017245B2 Composition for preparing organic insulator
A composition for preparing an organic insulator, the composition comprising (i) at least one organic-inorganic hybrid material; (ii) at least one organometallic compound and/or organic polymer; and (iii) at least one solvent for dissolving the above two components, so that an organic insulator using the same has a low threshold voltage and driving voltage, and high charge carrier mobility and Ion/Ioff ratio, thereby enhancing insulator characteristics. Further, the preparation of organic insulating film can be carried out by wet process, so that simplification of the process and cut of cost are achieved.
US08017243B2 Coated article with low-E coating having absorbing layer designed to neutralize color at off-axis viewing angles
An absorbing layer of a low-E coating is designed to cause the coating to have a more neutral and/or green color at normal and/or certain off-axis viewing angles. In certain example embodiments, the metallic or substantially metallic absorbing layer (e.g., NiCr) is from about 20-30 angstroms (Å) thick; this thickness has been found to unexpectedly provide less red and more neutral coloration for the coated article at certain off-axis viewing angles (e.g., at a 45 degree off-axis viewing angle). In certain example embodiments, the absorbing layer is provided between first and second nitride layers in order to reduce or prevent oxidation thereof during heat treatment thereby permitting predictable coloration to be achieved following the heat treatment. Coated articles according to certain example embodiments of this invention may be used in the context of insulating glass (IG) window units, vehicle windows, other types of windows, or in any other suitable application.
US08017242B2 Antireflection film, polarizing plate and image display
An antireflection film is provided and includes: a transparent support; and a low refractive index layer formed by coating a composition on the transparent support. The composition contains a fluorine-containing polymer containing a fluorine-containing vinyl monomer polymerization unit and a hydroxyl group-containing vinyl monomer polymerization unit, a crosslinking agent capable of reacting with a hydroxyl group, and a salt formed from an acid and an organic base, the organic base having a pKa of a conjugate acid thereof of 5.0 to 13.0.
US08017241B2 Sulfonation of conducting polymers and OLED, photovoltaic, and ESD devices
Conducting polymer systems for hole injection or transport layer applications including a composition comprising: a water soluble or water dispersible regioregular polythiophene comprising (i) at least one organic substituent, and (ii) at least one sulfonate substituent comprising sulfonate sulfur bonding directly to the polythiophene backbone. The polythiophene can be water soluble, water dispersible, or water swellable. They can be self-doped. The organic substituent can be an alkoxy substituent, or an alkyl substituent. OLED, PLED, SMOLED, PV, and ESD applications can be used.
US08017235B2 Method for manufacturing fine composite particles, apparatus for manufacturing fine composite particles, and fine composite particles
In the present invention, the fine particle composite process is carried out with the step of reacting fine core particles and a raw material for coating layer by mixing them and continuously supplying a resulting mixture into a micro flow path. The micro flow path is specified to 1-4000 in Reynolds number. With this arrangement, the present invention ensures, in a technology using a reactor having a micro flow path, accurate control of reaction condition, uniformity of coating amount distribution, easy layer formation, and successive production of fine composite particles.
US08017227B2 Adaptive composite materials
Shaped articles with the inherent capability to evolve in response to at least one of external and internal stimuli are described. These articles comprise at least one solid electrolyte with at least one dissolved salt, and at least one interface which involves a solid electrolytes and a conductive solid. Electric potential gradients, generated within the solid electrolyte by at least one of external and internal stimuli, guide and drive the self-healing and adaptation phenomena. The electric potential gradient is generated by at least one of the following effects: (i) direct application of an electric potential across the solid electrolyte; (ii) introduction of interfaces of different electrode potentials between the solid electrolyte and conductive solids; (iii) introduction of an interface between the solid electrolyte and a conductive solid embodying atoms of lower ionization energy than at least one of the atoms forming the ions of the dissolved salt in solid electrolyte; (iv) application of external load and environmental effects which, either directly or when interacting with defects developed in the article during manufacturing and use, generate stress and temperature gradients which, in turn, produce or magnify the potential gradients between the interfaces with solid electrolyte. The mechanisms through which the electric potential gradient generated by different stimuli bring about changes in article performance involve migration of ions and their electrodeposition within the solid electrolyte and at interfaces.
US08017226B2 Hard film-coated member and jig for molding
There are provided a hard film-coated member excellent in wear resistance and adhesion, and a jig for molding. The hard film-coated member includes: a base material including an iron base alloy containing Cr; a first film layer formed with a film thickness of 1 to 10 μm on the surface of the base material; and a second film layer formed with a film thickness of 2 to 10 μm on the surface of the first film layer. The first film layer includes Cr1-a-bMaBb(CcN1-c), wherein M is one or more elements selected from W, V, Mo, Nb, Ti, and Al, and a, b, and c each denote the atomic ratio, and satisfy: 0≦a≦0.7; 0≦b≦0.15; 0≦c≦0.5; and 0.3≦1-a-b. The second film layer includes Nb1-d-e-fCrdAleLf(CgN1-g), wherein L is one or more elements selected from Si, Y, and B, and d, e, f, and g each denote the atomic ratio, and satisfy: 0.05≦1-d-e-f≦0.5; 0.05≦d≦0.5; 0.4≦e≦0.7; 0≦f≦0.15; and 0≦g≦0.5.
US08017225B2 Cutting tool made of surface-coated cubic boron nitride-based ultrahigh pressure sintered material
A cutting tool made of surface-coated cubic boron nitride-based ultrahigh pressure sintered material, comprising a cutting insert main body formed by ultrahigh pressure sintering of compact composed of titanium nitride, aluminum and/or aluminum oxide, and boron nitride, and a hard coating layer vapor deposited on the main body. The main body has a texture containing cubic boron nitride, titanium nitride and reaction product. The hard coating layer has a lower layer of composite nitride having a composition of [Ti1-XAlX]N, where X is in a range from 0.40 to 0.60 in an atomic ratio, and the upper layer comprises a thin layer A having the composition of [Ti1-XAlX]N, where X is in a range from 0.40 to 0.60 in an atomic ratio, and a thin layer B consisting of a Ti nitride (TiN). The upper layer has a consisting of the thin layer A and a thin layer B layered alternately.
US08017224B2 Solar heat responsive exterior surface covering
An exterior surface covering has a colored outer layer that transmits infrared radiation and an inner layer with a thermochromic pigment that absorbs heat at low temperature and reflects at high temperatures. The outer layer conceals the color change of the thermochromic pigment.
US08017219B2 Process for making a mineral battery
The present invention provides a process for making a mineral battery using treated powdered polar crystal mineral and a treated liquid as an electrolyte. The polar crystal powder and liquid are either separately or after mixing together subjected to a rotating EMF. The powder-liquid mixture is inserted into a housing and compacted therein to form a mineral battery, along with an anode and a cathode and terminals. The preferred polar crystal mineral is tourmaline. In one embodiment, after the mixture is in the housing it is subjected to a voltage. In one embodiment the mixture is prepared and compacted into the housing and then subjected to a rotating EMF, and may then also be subjected to application of a voltage.
US08017216B2 Member for push button switch and method of manufacturing the same
A member for a push button switch that has a small thickness, high durability, and excellent click feeling and can be manufactured at low cost. The member for the push button switch includes one or more key tops, a metal sheet including at least holes that correspond to positions of the key tops, and an elastic sheet that is provided on the metal sheet so as to be positioned on the same side as or opposite side to the key tops. The elastic sheet is fitted into the holes and comes in contact with the key tops at positions of the holes. The elastic sheet includes a urethane film or polycarbonate, and a silicone rubber, which are laminated in a thickness direction of the metal sheet.
US08017214B2 Method for producing honeycomb structure and honeycomb structure
A method for producing a honeycomb structure is provided, where a body containing a forming formulation composed of a cordierite forming material and an organic binder is formed into a honeycomb shape to prepare a honeycomb shaped article, and the honeycomb shaped article is fired to obtain a honeycomb structure. The forming formulation includes two or more types of magnesium-containing materials containing at least talc, and a magnesium-containing material except talc has an average particle diameter of 4 μm or less.
US08017212B2 Paper honeycomb core composite panel
A paper honeycomb core composite panel includes a face plate, a bottom plate, a paper honeycomb core sandwiched between the face plate and the bottom plate, e pieces of interior spacer disposed between the face plate and the bottom plate and extended entirely or partly around the periphery of the paper honeycomb core, and a edge sealing band which is bonded to the pieces of interior spacer or bonded to the pieces of interior spacer and the paper honeycomb core. The reinforcing frame of the composite panel makes use of the pieces of interior spacer including the pipe pieces or extrusive section material and so on. The edge sealing band or the pieces of interior spacer form the fringe of the composite panel.
US08017211B2 Composition, cured product and article
A composition, etc. are provided, which can enhance hardness and afford abrasion resistance even in a thin film as well as excellent antifouling property and durability of the antifouling property.An organic polymer, is provided, which comprises 5 to 30 weight percent of a radical polymerizable monomer having a perfluoroalkyl group, 0.01 to 5 weight percent of α,ω-dimercaptopolysiloxane, 5 to 40 weight percent of a radical polymerizable monomer having a cationic photo polymerizable epoxy group, and 25 to 75 weight percent of the other radical polymerizable monomer copolymerizable therewith, said organic polymer having a structure corresponding to a radical polymerizable copolymer of a mixture of the monomers in which a molar ratio of the mercapto group to the epoxy group is 0.0001 to 0.025, and/or a structure obtained by reacting the epoxy groups of the radical polymerizable copolymer with (meth) acrylic acid.
US08017205B2 Packaged beverage having enhanced carbon dioxide retention, method for packaging a beverage, container for packaging a beverage, and polyester composition
A packaged aqueous carbonated beverage comprising a container which replaces at least a portion of CO2 that permeates through the container or closure. The container comprises a polyester composition including a polyester suitable for packaging aqueous carbonated beverages and a carbonating agent. The aqueous carbonated beverage is disposed in the container such that the aqueous carbonated beverage has direct contact with the container and a closure seals the beverage in the container. The carbonating agent reacts with water in the carbonated beverage forming CO2 for replacing at least a portion of CO2 that permeates through the container or closure. A corresponding method of packaging an aqueous carbonated beverage is disclosed.
US08017204B2 Composition suitable for thin-wall injection molded articles
Compositions suitable for manufacturing injection molded articles having a minimum wall thickness of from 500 μm to 2.0 mm comprise from: (A) 2 to 15% by weight of a propylene-ethylene copolymer having substantially isotactic propylene sequences; (B) 85 to 98% by weight of a random polypropylene copolymer having from 2.5 to 5.0% by weight units derived from ethylene and a melt flow rate of from 25 to 130 grams/10 minutes (g/10 min); and (C) 500 to 2500 ppm by weight of a nucleator/clarifier additive (based on the weight of the random polypropylene copolymer). Typically, the melt flow rate of the compositions is from 20 to 125 g/10 min, and the propylene-ethylene copolymer comprises at least 75% by weight propylene and has a melt flow rate from 4 to 30 g/10 min.
US08017202B2 Compositions and processes for preparing color filter elements using alkali metal carboxylates
The present invention provides compositions derived from a polycarboxylic acid, a polyhydroxy compound, a dye and a basic crosslinking agent. The compositions can be used to prepare cross-linked films that exhibit low solvent-swell characteristics. The cross-linked films can be used to prepare color filter elements via thermal transfer processes.
US08017201B2 Compositions and processes for preparing color filter elements using alkali metal hydroxides
The present invention provides compositions derived from a polycarboxylic acid, a polyhydroxy compound, a dye and a basic crosslinking agent. The compositions can be used to prepare cross-linked films that exhibit low solvent-swell characteristics. The cross-linked films can be used to prepare color filter elements via thermal transfer processes.
US08017200B2 Liquid-crystalline medium
Disclosed are a liquid-crystalline medium, which contains a compound of formula I and the use thereof for electro-optical purposes, in particular for TN, TFT, IPS or OCB displays.
US08017198B2 Thin film deposition via charged particle-depleted plasma achieved by magnetic confinement
A method and apparatus for forming thin film materials via a plasma deposition process in the presence of a magnetic field. A precursor is delivered to a deposition chamber and activated to form a plasma. The plasma may be initiated in the presence of a magnetic field or subjected to a magnetic field after initiation. The plasma includes ionized and neutral species derived from the precursor and the magnetic field manipulates the plasma to effect a reduction in the population of ionized species and an enhancement of the population of neutral species. A thin film material is subsequently formed from the resulting neutral-enriched deposition medium. The method permits formation of thin film materials having a low density of defects. In one embodiment, the thin film material is a photovoltaic material and the suppression of defects leads to an enhancement in photovoltaic efficiency.
US08017196B2 Method for plasma coating an object of elastomeric material
A pump piston and/or elements sealing the pump piston, in particular a sealing ring of elastomeric material with an additionally applied coating are/is proposed. To improve the durability characteristics, the pump piston and/or the elements sealing the pump piston have a coating which is formed at least predominantly of halogen-, silicon-, carbon-containing and/or metal-organic monomers. Furthermore, a device and a method for coating an object of elastomeric material utilizing a plasma are proposed.
US08017194B2 Method and material for a thermally crosslinkable random copolymer
A structure that comprises a substrate; a cross-linked random free radical copolymer on the substrate; and a self-assembled patterned diblock copolymer film on the random copolymer; wherein the random copolymer is energy neutral with respect to each block of the diblock copolymer film. A method of making the structure is provided.
US08017191B2 Fast dip for reduced wicking in nanolithograhic ink delivery
A method of dipping a nanoscopic probe comprising dipping a nanoscopic tip at a dipping rate into an inkwell comprising ink, wherein the dipping rate is configured to be sufficiently faster than a rate of wicking. A nanoscopic probe comprising a nanoscopic tip and an inkwell configured to contain ink, wherein the nanoscopic probe is configured to dip into and retract from the ink at a rate that is sufficiently faster than wicking. Wicking can cause excessive amounts of ink to be deposited on nanoscopic tips, which can lead to contamination of inkwells and other nanoscopic tips.
US08017187B2 Flake pigment mixture and multilayer coating method
A flake mixture for spraying onto a surface to be coated, the flake mixture comprising a volatile liquid medium and a flake pigment dispersed within said liquid medium, the weight percentage of flake being between 0.002% and 0.15%. A method is also provided the method comprising the steps of: providing an object having a surface to be coated; preparing the surface to be coated by applying a gloss basecoat layer; curing said basecoat layer; providing a flake mixture, flake mixture comprising a volatile liquid medium and a flake pigment dispersed within said liquid medium, the weight percentage of flake being between 0.0002% and 0.15% spraying onto said surface the flake mixture; curing the flake mixture; applying over said flake layer a lacquer layer; and curing said lacquer layer.
US08017186B2 Film forming method, discharging droplet method and droplet discharging device
The present invention provides film forming method and a droplet discharge method for removing bubbles in a pressurizing chamber to prevent defective discharge without disposing a large amount of materials in a droplet discharging device. Before a material is discharged in the droplet discharging device, a step is provided in which reduced pressure is kept in a pressurizing chamber and a material supply portion, which are connected, to remove bubbles that exist in the pressurizing chamber. A flow path connected to the outside such as an opening of a nozzle surface of the pressurizing chamber or a material supply port of the material supply portion is sealed, and pressure in the pressurizing chamber and the material supply portion is reduced from an inlet and outlet connected to the material supply portion with the use of a reduced pressure means such as a pump.
US08017183B2 Organosiloxane materials for selective area deposition of inorganic materials
An atomic-layer-deposition process for forming a patterned thin film comprising providing a substrate, applying a deposition inhibitor material to the substrate, wherein the deposition inhibitor material is an organosiloxane compound; and patterning the deposition inhibitor material either after or simultaneously with or introducing applying the deposition inhibitor material to provide selected areas of the substrate effectively not having the deposition inhibitor material. The thin film is substantially deposited only in the selected areas of the substrate not having the deposition inhibitor material.
US08017179B2 Coatings for implantable electrodes
A method includes sandblasting an electrode surface, applying a conductive oxide precursor solution to the electrode surface, and heating the electrode for at least 5 minutes at a temperature between 350 degrees C. and 550 degrees C. to convert the precursor solution into an oxide coating. One method includes applying a composite material including a conductive component and a non-conductive component to an electrode and curing the composite material to form a coating on the electrode. One method includes providing a metallic oxide coating on an electrode surface and applying a galvanostatic treatment to the electrode to increase the effective surface area of the metallic oxide coating.
US08017177B2 Method of automatically marking article and automatic marking device
A method and device for automatically marking an article are provided, by which the deterioration in the yield can be prevented from occurring and a color of a mark to be formed on the article can be easily changed. A device 1 for automatically marking an electric wire as a device for automatically marking an article marks an outer surface 3a of an electric wire 3. The device 1 includes first and second spouting means 311, 321, encoder 33 and control device 34. The first spouting means 311 spouts a specific amount of a first coloring agent toward the outer surface 3a of the electric wire 3. The second spouting means 312 spouts a specific amount of a second coloring agent toward the outer surface 3a of the electric wire 3. The encoder 33 detects a transfer speed of the electric wire 2 which is transferred in a direction of arrow K. The control device 34 makes the first and second spouting means 311, 312 spout the coloring agent according to a pattern predetermined in advance in response to the transfer speed of the wire 3 detected by the encoder 33.
US08017169B2 Method of manufacture for shelf stable pasteurized cheese shreds
Shelf stable cheeses, especially shredded cheeses, and the manufacture thereof. Cheeses of the invention have good melting properties, are microbiologically safe and resistant to the growth of mold and pathogens when stored at room temperature, and can maintain physical integrity when subjected to temperature abuse. The cheese may be comprised of a mixture of salts (e.g., sodium chloride, disodium phosphate, sodium hexametophosphate, sodium alginate, titanium dioxide, sorbic acid, and the like), starch (e.g., waxy maize and the like), water, cheese, and cheese for manufacture.
US08017165B2 Method of reducing oil content in dry distillers grain with solubles
Method of reducing residual oil in DDGS by pulverizing and pelletizing the DDGS followed by extraction with an organic solvent.
US08017154B2 Polyamino acid for use as adjuvant
Use of a polyamino acid as an adjuvant; an application of a polyamino acid as an adjuvant in the production of a vaccine; a vaccine comprising a polyamino acid as an adjuvant; a biodegradable nanoparticle having a virus antigen immobilized thereon; and a vaccine comprising the biodegradable nanoparticle.
US08017153B2 Dietary supplement composition for blood lipid health
A method for enhancing gastrointestinal motility in humans and other mammals comprises administering a therapeutically effective amount of a composition having one or more long chain (C24-C36) primary alcohols as policosanols dispersed in one or more food-grade fats or oils, wherein the particle sizes of the alcohols are substantially less than 10 microns.
US08017152B2 Cores and microcapsules suitable for parenteral administration as well as process for their manufacture
Process for producing parenterally administrable cores. The cores are intermediates suitable for manufacturing sustained release preparations. Microcapsules incorporating a core and a shell and pharmaceutical compositions incorporating such cores and microcapsules are also provided.
US08017151B2 Amphiphilic polymer-protein conjugates and methods of use thereof
Compositions and methods for transporting biologically active proteins and polypeptides, particularly across the blood-brain barrier, are provided.
US08017148B2 Pharmaceutical formulation containing opioid agonist, opioid antagonist and irritant agent
Disclosed in certain embodiments is an oral dosage form comprising: a therapeutically effective amount of an opioid analgesic; an opioid antagonist; and an irritant in an effective amount to impart an irritating sensation to an abuser upon administration of the dosage form after tampering.
US08017147B2 Nutritional supplement for the prevention of cardiovascular disease, alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and regulation and reduction of blood sugar and insulin resistance
A synergistic mixture (which may be utilized as a food or a drink or a supplement or a drug or a cosmetic or a hygienic product) that is formulated and is capable of improving a person's well being, lowering the risks of cardiovascular and/or Alzheimer's diseases and/or lowering blood sugar using natural and synthetic ingredients. Numerous ratios may be formulated for aroma, color, flavor, flow (viscosity), taste and uniformity. Moreover, ingredients for sugar substitutes, natural preservatives, nano-dispersion, nano-emulsion, nano-encapsulation of ingredients and apparatus for personalized nutrition are also described herein.
US08017146B2 Transdermal delivery system with two superimposed adhesive layers having different affinities to the active substance comprised
A device for the transdermal delivery of a pharmacologically active substance has first and second superimposed mutually contacting adhesive layers (2, 3). The first layer (3) is in use brought into contact with the skin. The active substance is dissolved in both layers, the affinity of the first layer for the active substance being between about 1.15 and about 10 times lower than that of the second layer. The percent saturation of the active substance in both the layers is the same and is less than 100%. The first layer has a greater thickness than the second layer. The device is simple and can provide stable delivery over a long period.
US08017144B2 Controlled release polymeric compositions of bone growth promoting compounds
The present invention is directed to an improved system for controlled release of a bone growth promoting compound and to a flowable composition for its formation. The flowable composition is composed of a bone growth promoting compound, a thermoplastic polymer and an organic solvent. The flowable composition is capable of forming a biodegradable and/or bioerodible microporous, solid polymer matrix. The matrix is useful as an implant in patients (humans and animals) for delivery of a bone growth promoting compound to certain tissues.
US08017141B2 Coatings of acrylamide-based copolymers
An implantable device including conjugate formed of an acrylamide-based copolymer and a bioactive agent is provided.
US08017140B2 Drug-delivery stent formulations for restenosis and vulnerable plaque
Drug-delivery stents capable of providing release of two or more drugs such as everolimus and estradiol are provided. The stents can be used for treating a disease such as restenosis and vulnerable plaque.
US08017136B2 Shiny foundation
A cosmetic composition is provided comprising: a) a cross-linked organopolysiloxane elastomer; b) a shine agent having the formula R—X—R′ wherein R and R′ are C6-C10 alkyl groups and X is an oxygen atom or a carbonate group.
US08017129B2 Use of thymosin alpha 1 for preparing a medicament for the treatment of stage IV malignant melanoma
It is described the use of thymosin alpha in combination with dacarbazine and optionally with Interferon alpha, for preparing a medicament for the treatment of malignant melanoma on stage IV characterized by distant unresectable metastases.
US08017124B2 Use of DMBT1 for capturing sulphate and phosphate group exposing agents
Disclosed is the use of DMBT1, or of the nucleic acid encoding it, for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a patient suffering from a disease caused by an agent, which possesses at least one accessible sulphate and/or at least one accessible phosphate group, uses of DMBT1 as a diagnostic for diagnosing the susceptibility of an individual to sulphate or phosphate groups, as well as methods for diagnosis, prophylaxis or treatment of diseases caused by an agent which possesses at least one accessible sulphate and/or at least one accessible phosphate group.
US08017117B2 Cytotoxicity mediation of cells evidencing surface expression of CD44
This invention relates to the diagnosis and treatment of cancerous diseases, particularly to the mediation of cytotoxicity of tumor cells; and most particularly to the use of cancerous disease modifying antibodies (CDMAB), optionally in combination with one or more chemotherapeutic agents, as a means for initiating the cytotoxic response. The invention further relates to binding assays which utilize the CDMAB of the instant invention.
US08017116B2 Chimeric and humanized antibodies to α5β1 integrin that modulate angiogenesis
The present invention provides chimeric and humanized antibodies that specifically recognize α5β1 integrin, and methods for using the antibodies for reducing or inhibiting angiogenesis in a tissue. Also provided are methods of determining therapeutically acceptable doses of the antibodies and pharmaceutical compositions including the same.
US08017115B2 Therapeutical use of anti-myelin associated glycoprotein (MAG) antibodies
A method of promoting oligodendrocyte survival in a human suffering from, or at risk of developing, stroke or other neurological diseases utilizes anti-MAG antibodies or functional fragments of such antibodies.
US08017109B2 Endosomolytic poly(acrylate) polymers
The present invention is directed to membrane active polymers useful for cellular delivery of compounds. Described are polyconjugates systems that incorporate targeting, anti-opsonization, anti-aggregation, and transfection activities into small biocompatible in vivo delivery conjugates. The use of reversible modification provides for physiologically responsive activity modulation.
US08017104B2 Large stoke shift dye used for optical imaging
The present invention relates to a diagnostic contrast agent comprising a water dispersible, near-infrared tricarbocyanine, enamine-functionalized dye having a Stoke shift of greater than 50 and represented by five general formulae. The present invention also relates to a method for making a dye-conjugate utilizing the novel dye and a method of identifying a biological compound using the novel dye conjugate.
US08017101B2 Precipitated calcium carbonate, method for producing the same and filler for loading paper using the same
Carbon dioxide containing gas is blown into a calcium hydroxide slurry having a calcium hydroxide concentration of 100 to 400 g/L obtained by wet slaking calcined lime with 4 N hydrochloric acid activity (value at 3 minutes) of 150 to 400 mL to allow them to react until the carbonation rate becomes 50 to 85%, then 1 to 20% by volume of the calcium hydroxide slurry is added, and carbon dioxide containing gas is further blown in to terminate the reaction. The calcium carbonate obtained by this method is precipitated calcium carbonate aggregates having a secondary particle diameter of 1 to 10 μm and consisting of primary particles having a long diameter of 0.5 to 3.0 μm, a short diameter of 0.1 to 1.0 μm and an aspect ratio of 3 or more, has superior characteristics due to a BET specific surface area in the range of 8 to 20 m2/g and a pore volume in the range of 1.5 to 3.5 cm3/g, can be uniformly dispersed in pulp fiber, and thereby can be used to manufacture high bulk paper.
US08017099B2 Method for producing polycrystalline silicon, and facility for producing polycrystalline silicon
A method for producing polycrystalline silicon, including: reacting trichlorosilane and hydrogen to produce silicon and a remainder including monosilanes (formula: SiHnCl4-n, wherein n is 0 to 4) containing silicon tetrachloride, and a polymer including at least trisilanes or tetrasilanes; and supplying the remainder and hydrogen to a conversion reactor and heating at a temperature within the range of 600 to 1,400° C. to convert silicon tetrachloride into trichlorosilane and the polymer into monosilanes.
US08017094B2 Rack for analyzer and analyzer comprising such a rack
A rack for holding containers containing liquids used in clinical chemistry analyzers. The rack comprises (a) a frame having two or more sections, each section being adapted for receiving a liquid containing component, at least one of the sections of the frame being adapted for receiving a first liquid containing component which is adapted for being removably but tightly mechanically connected to said frame, (b) at least one movable part adapted to be removably coupled to a shaker device, the movable part being adapted for receiving and holding a second liquid containing component, at least one of the sections of the frame being adapted for receiving the movable part and allowing motion of the movable part within predetermined limits.
US08017092B2 Analyzer and reagent container
An analyzer enabling the user to hardly breathe in a malodor given off from a reagent when exchanging a reagent container is obtained. This analyzer, connected with a reagent container including a flexible container body storing the reagent, comprises an analyzer body analyzing an analyte with the reagent and reagent transporter having a first end connected to the analyzer body and a second end connected to the reagent container. The reagent transporter includes a first connectional part, detachably connected to the reagent container, having a first switching member forming and blocking a first passage between the analyzer body and the reagent container, while the first switching member blocks the first passage when the first connectional part is separated from the reagent container, and forms the first passage when the first connectional part is connected to the reagent container.
US08017091B2 Beadwhacker
A device consisting of a low-RPM motor wherein the motor spins a flat disk, a peg is attached to the disk, a stationary spring armature wherein the peg can activate the stationary spring armature as the disk rotates, and a tube containing beads in a fluid positioned in a top plate wherein the spring armature can contact the tube. This device can further include a soft closed-cell foam top mounted on the top plate wherein the tube is inserted and maintained by the foam in such a way as to allow for slight motion of the tube induced by the contact by the spring armature.
US08017090B2 Apparatus and method for rapid and continuous generation of phosphine gas
Phosphine gas is generated by agitating a reaction mixture of a metal phosphide and water with agitation air in a reaction pot of a phosphine gas generator. The resulting phosphine gas is then diluted with dilution air to produce a fumigant phosphine gas which is directly delivered to a commodity for fumigation. The reaction pot does not have any rotating means such as agitators, rotors, or stirrers. The generator provides on-site generation of phosphine gas in a rapid manner improving the fumigation efficiency for a commodity, such as grain, preferably contained within a storage structures, such as a grain silo. The generator has a built in deactivation system for the unused metal phosphide and phosphine gas.
US08017088B2 Fuel reformer
A fuel reformer including a first pipe, a second pipe which is disposed in the first pipe, a main heat source, which includes an oxidation catalyst, filling the second pipe adapted to generate thermal energy with a predetermined temperature range through an oxidation reaction of a fuel using the oxidation catalyst; an auxiliary heat source which includes a torch connected to the second pipe to ignite and burn the gaseous fuel, thereby preheating the oxidation catalyst to within a reaction starting temperature range, and a reforming reaction unit which includes a reforming catalyst filling a space between the first and second pipes to generate a reforming gas containing hydrogen through the reforming reaction of the fuel using the reforming catalyst by using the thermal energy generated by the main heat source.
US08017084B1 Ammonia injection grid for a selective catalytic reduction system
An ammonia injection grid for a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system that provides uniform distribution of ammonia to the SCR catalyst in NOx reduction systems for heat recovery steam generation systems, packaged boilers, simple cycle catalyst systems and fired heaters for superior operational efficiency. The ammonia injection grid includes an injection tube having at least one nozzle for injecting ammonia into a flow of flue gas. The ammonia injection grid also includes a corrugated turbulence enhancer associated with the injection tube to generate turbulent wake to enhance turbulent mixing.
US08017081B2 System and method for measuring effective temperature inside a sealed container
A system and method of measuring the effective temperature inside a sealed container having a headspace is provided. A liquid solvent is added to the container, and a solid compound is added to the liquid solvent to create a saturated solution. Vapor of the saturated solution is allowed to equilibrate in the headspace of the sealed container, and a volume thereof is transferred to a chromatographic column, where chromatographic readings of the equilibrated vapor are taken. A temperature within the sealed container is then calculated based upon the chromatographic readings of the equilibrated vapor, wherein the temperature calculation is based upon the concentrations of the liquid solvent and the solid compound in the equilibrated vapor.
US08017080B2 Liquid state detecting apparatus
A liquid state detecting apparatus including a detecting element having a heating resistor which generates heat when energized and being disposed in a liquid container for containing a liquid, the apparatus calculating a first difference between a first corresponding value corresponding to a first resistance of the heating resistor acquired after energization of the heating resistor is started and a second corresponding value corresponding to a second resistance of the heating resistor acquired after the heating resistor is energized for a predetermined detection time and obtaining a first concentration of a particular component included in the liquid, the first concentration being associated with the first difference, the apparatus including: an abnormality determination unit, a determination concentration acquiring unit, a concentration difference calculation unit, and a static state determination unit, all as defined herein.
US08017078B2 Blood cell analyzer, blood cell analyzing method, and computer program product
A blood cell analyzer is provided with a first detection unit for electrically detecting blood cells in blood sample; a second detection unit for optically detecting blood cells in blood sample; a volume information obtainer for obtaining volume information of red blood cells based on the electrically detected blood cells; a scattered light intensity information obtainer for obtaining a scattered light intensity of red blood cells based on the optically detected blood cells; a first histogram preparer for preparing a first histogram of the volume information of each of red blood cells; a second histogram preparer for preparing a second histogram of the scattered light intensity information of each of red blood cells; a display unit; and a data processor for preparing a screen for displaying on the display unit, the screen including the first and second histograms.
US08017073B2 High intensity air purifier
This document describes a high intensity air purifier (HAIP), a super oxidation purifier, and a controller for controlling operation of any of various purification systems. In some implementations, a HAIP includes an air purifier system coupled within a housing having an air inlet and an air outlet. The air purifier system includes a pre-filter coupled to the air inlet, an axial fan for receiving and forwarding air from the air inlet. The air purifier system further includes a UV reaction chamber having a UV-light source for providing UV light to the forwarded air from the air inlet and a reflective lining to reflect the provided UV light, to provide UV purified air from the UV reaction chamber. The air purifier system further includes a chemical catalyst cartridge for receiving the UV purified air from the UV reaction chamber, for further purifying the UV purified air, and a post filter coupled to the air outlet.
US08017071B2 Corrosion-resistant, cold-formable, machinable, high strength, martensitic stainless steel
A corrosion resistant, martensitic steel alloy having very good cold formability is described. The alloy has the following weight percent composition. Carbon0.10-0.40 Manganese0.01-2.0  Silicon 2.0 max. Phosphorus 0.2 max. Sulfur0.030 max.  Chromium10-15 Nickel 0.5 max. Molybdenum0.75-4.0  Nitrogen0.02-0.15 Copper1.5-4.0 Titanium0.01 max. Aluminum0.01 max. Niobium + Tantalum0.10 max. Vanadium0.20 max. Zirconiumless than 0.001 Calciumless than 0.001 The balance of the alloy is essentially iron. Nickel and copper are balanced in the alloy such that the ratio Ni/Cu is less than 0.2. A second embodiment of the alloy contains at least about 0.005% sulfur, selenium, or a combination thereof to provide good machinability.
US08017067B2 Method of making a single fire honeycomb structure
A method for manufacturing a honeycomb structure comprises providing an aqueous ceramic solution, providing a batch cross-link agent, mixing the agent with the solution, extruding the aqueous ceramic solution containing the cross-link agent into a honeycomb structure, and drying the honeycomb structure via a single drying step thereby forming a hardened, substantially water resistant, honeycomb structure. The method may further comprise addition of a ceramic surfactant to the aqueous ceramic solution, as well as plugging channels within the honeycomb structure with a plugging material comprising an aqueous ceramic solution that includes batch cross-link agents and ceramic surfactants therein. Also disclosed is a green body honeycomb article having a green honeycomb matrix containing a first ceramic batch compound of inorganic constituents, a first batch cross-link agent, and an aqueous vehicle wherein the matrix includes interconnected walls forming open-ended channels and a plugging material located in at least one of the open-ended channels.
US08017063B2 Molds and methods for injection molding preforms
This invention relates to methods and apparatus for making articles made of polyester, preferably polyethylene terephthalate (PET), having coated directly to at least one of the surfaces thereof one or more layers of thermoplastic material with good gas-barrier characteristics. In one preferred method and apparatus, preforms are injection molded, barrier-coated immediately thereafter, and remain on a mold portion for a time to speed cooling of the completed preform. Preferably the barrier-coated articles take the form of preforms coated by at least one layer of barrier material and the containers are blow-molded therefrom. Such barrier-coated containers are preferably of the type to hold beverages such as soft drinks, beer or juice. The preferred barrier materials have a lower permeability to oxygen and carbon dioxide than PET as well as key physical properties similar to PET. The materials and methods provide that the barrier layers have good adherence to PET, even during and after the blow molding process to form containers from preforms. Preferred barrier coating materials include poly(hydroxyamino ethers).
US08017061B2 Invention concerning agricultural active substances
The invention relates to supports consisting of nanoscalar polymer fibres, polymer tubes or hollow fibres for the application and targeted and/or delayed release of ingredients, in particular, agricultural active ingredients. The invention also relates to a method and a device for the production of supports of this type in a charged or empty state. The method and device use electrospinning technology.
US08017060B2 Process for the preparation of extruded delivery systems
The invention describes a process for the preparation of a granular delivery system particularly useful for the controlled release of flavoring or perfuming ingredients. The process includes the steps of forming a concentrated, highly viscous emulsion of the active compound to be encapsulated, blending the latter with a hydrophilic polymer in an extruder and shaping it into a granular free flowing solid at usual storage temperatures. The process of the invention is particularly appropriate for the encapsulation of volatile molecules as it avoids any dehydration step before or after extrusion.
US08017056B2 Salt cores for plastic (injection) molding
Water-soluble salt cores are used in molds for the production of hollow moldings by plastic molding.The production of hollow plastic moldings is effected by positioning a water-soluble salt core in a mold, molding a thermoplastic molding material around the salt core and, after solidification of the thermoplastic molding material, washing out the salt core with a water-containing solvent.
US08017053B2 Manufacturing of shaped coolant hoses
The present invention relates to a process for manufacturing a shaped article such as tubes, and hoses comprising processing a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer in an extruder apparatus.
US08017052B2 Process of and apparatus for making a shingle, and shingle made thereby
A process and apparatus for making a shingle, together with the shingle made thereby, is provided, in which one or more thermoplastic materials are extruded or co-extruded to form an extrudate, with the extrudate being cut into a preliminary shingle shape, which is allowed to dissipate heat, and then is delivered to a compression mold, wherein the preliminary shingle shape is compression molded to substantially its final dimensions and is then discharged from the mold and allowed to cool.
US08017050B2 Water purification membranes with improved fouling resistance
The present invention includes methods and compositions for liquid separation and water purification. The present invention includes a purification membrane having a polymer matrix purification membrane that has been treated with dopamine to form a polydopamine coated membrane with a high water flux and a high hydrophilicity.
US08017043B2 Conductive pattern forming ink, conductive pattern, and wiring substrate
A conductive pattern forming ink for forming a conductive pattern on a substrate by a droplet discharge method includes: metal particles; an aqueous dispersion medium in which the metal particles are dispersed; xylitol; and a polyglycerol compound having a polyglycerol skeleton. H shown in the following formula (I) is 0.10 to 0.70, and H = OH ⁡ ( A ) Mw ⁡ ( A ) ⁢ X ⁡ ( A ) + OH ⁡ ( B ) Mw ⁡ ( B ) ⁢ X ⁡ ( B ) Formula ⁢ ⁢ ( I ) OH(A) represents an average number of hydroxyl groups in one molecule of the polyglycerol compound, Mw(A) represents a weight-average molecular weight of the polyglycerol compound, X(A) represents a content of the polyglycerol compound in the conductive pattern forming ink in weight percent; and OH(B) represents the number of hydroxyl groups in one molecule of the xylitol, Mw(B) represents a molecular weight of the xylitol, and X(B) represents a content of the xylitol in the conductive pattern forming ink in weight percent.
US08017037B2 Fluorescent substance and light emitting device using the same
A fluorescent substance capable of remarkably increasing the luminous intensity of a I-III-VI2 chalcopyrite type compound having a large band gap among chalcopyrite type compounds with manganese as luminescence centers, and being favorably used for a lighting device using a light emitting diode, a light emitting element of a display device or the like, a light emitting device such as fluorescent lamps such as a cold cathode fluorescent lamp and a hot cathode fluorescent lamp, as a fluorescent substance generating fluorescence by ultraviolet excitation, is provided. The fluorescent substance is expressed by composition formula (1) Cu(Al1-xGax)(S1-ySey)2:Mn,Si  (1) (wherein x represents a number satisfying 0≦x≦0.4, and y represents a number satisfying 0≦y≦0.4), including manganese as a luminescence center atom.