Document Document Title
US08067875B1 Networked structure of electroactive polymer-based artificial neuromuscular units
An artificial neuromuscular unit (ANMU) network comprising: a plurality of ANMUs, wherein each ANMU comprises an electroactive polymer (EAP) actuator layer and a uniquely addressable EAP logic layer coupled to the actuator layer; a plurality of inert, non-ion-conducting and non-charge-conducting interfaces mechanically coupled between the ANMUs such that the actuator layer of each ANMU is insulated from the actuator layers and logic layers of the other ANMUs; an EAP common conductor layer coupled to the logic layer of each ANMU such that the logic layer of each ANMU is interposed between the common conductor layer and the corresponding actuator layer; and wherein the logic layer of each ANMU is configured to control the transfer of energy to and from the common conductor layer and the corresponding actuator layer.
US08067873B2 Motor and the compressor including the same
A motor, namely, a motor with minimum loss and improved efficiency is disclosed. More specifically, a motor having enhanced starting torque performance and increased normal operation efficiency is disclosed. In the motor in which a rotor is started using induction torque generated as power is supplied to a coil of a stator, the rotor includes a rotor core, conductive bars arranged, along a circumferential direction, in an outer rim region of the rotor core, to generate an induction current, flux barriers formed in the rotor core, to interrupt flow of a magnetic flux, for generation of reluctance torque, and magnets provided in the rotor core, to generate a magnetic flux, for generation of magnetic torque.
US08067870B2 Motor and electronic apparatus having the same
The motor of the invention is an outer rotor type motor, and a rotor includes a cylindrical rotor frame that is opened at one end thereof in an axial direction, and a hollow cylindrical magnet attached to an inner periphery of the rotor frame. The magnet has a joining portion joined to an inside cylindrical portion of the rotor frame, and a protruding portion that further protrudes in the axial direction from one end, the outer diameter of the protruding portion is larger than the inner diameter of the rotor frame, and the joining portion is directly brought into close contact with a portion ranging from the one end to at least a portion of the inside cylindrical portion.
US08067865B2 Electric motor/generator low hydraulic resistance cooling mechanism
The present disclosure, in one form, provides an electric motor/generator low hydraulic resistance cooling mechanism including a hollow cooling stator case having an inner and outer coaxial surface. The inner surface defines a generally cylindric cavity for receiving a stator in heat transference contact with the inner surface. The outer surface has integrated spiral groove cooling passages that are defined by filleted rectangular cross sections.
US08067863B2 Detent force correcting
An apparatus comprises a linear electromagnetic actuator which has a series of ferromagnetic poles, coils, and a series of permanent magnets to interact with the poles to induce movement of the actuator along a path. The poles have non-uniform configurations.
US08067862B2 Linear motor actuator
Provided is a linear motor actuator which generates a sufficient thrust force and a retaining force and is remarkably smaller than conventional linear motor actuators. The linear motor actuator includes a base member (1) provided with a bottom plate (10) and a pair of side walls (11) and formed in a channel shape; a track rail (2) laid on the bottom plate along a longitudinal direction of the base member; a slide table (3) moving along the track rail; stator magnets (40) arranged on an inner side surface of each of side walls of the base member; and a pair of coil members (41) mounted to the slide table and opposed to the stator magnets provided to each of the side walls of the base member, thereby constituting a linear motor (4).
US08067860B2 Electrical device, in particular an electrical hand-held power tool
The invention is based on an electric device, in particular an electric hand tool, having a removable power supply unit (18, 70, 104), an accommodation region (16, 102, 132, 144, 156) for accommodating the power supply unit (18, 70, 104), and a locking device (20, 76, 114, 134, 146, 154) for locking the power supply unit (18, 70, 104) to the accommodation region (16, 102, 132, 144, 156). It is proposed that the locking device (20, 76, 114, 134, 146, 154) is provided for the purpose of unlocking the power supply unit (18, 70, 104) from a locked state—by means of a force which is exerted on the power supply unit (18, 70, 104) and moves the entire power supply unit (18, 70, 104) in relation to the accommodation region (16, 102, 132, 144, 156).
US08067859B2 Reverse polarity protection for MOSFETs
The invention relates to a control circuit and a corresponding method for controlling MOSFETs coupled to the control circuit. The MOSFETs are coupled to a load to couple the load to a power supply, or the MOSFETs are coupled to a generator. In case of inverted polarity, the control circuit switches the MOSFETs to their conducting state to prevent damaging the MOSFETs.
US08067858B2 Low-distortion voltage variable capacitor assemblies
An embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus, comprising a first half cell comprising a circuit with two or more voltage variable capacitors (VVCs) configured in anti-series in which one or more of the two or more VVCs with the same bias voltage orientation as a signal voltage associated with the apparatus assume one capacitance and one or more of the two or more VVCs with the opposite bias voltage orientation as the signal voltage assume another capacitance, and a second half cell connected in parallel to the first half cell, comprising a circuit with two or more VVCs configured in anti series in which one or more of the two or more VVCs with the same bias voltage orientation as a signal voltage associated with the apparatus assume the same values as the anti-oriented VVCs in the first half cell and a one or more VVCs with the opposite bias voltage orientation as a signal voltage assume the same values as the like oriented VVCs in the first half cell.
US08067857B2 Redundant power supply systems and methods
A redundant power supply method is provided. The method includes communicatively coupling a load to a first source via a plurality of first power supplies and to a second source via a plurality of second power supplies. The method further includes bi-directionally communicatively coupling a controller to the plurality of first power supplies and to the plurality of second power supplies. The method includes activating a first portion of the plurality of first power supplies to supply power to the load, wherein the controller determines the number (“N”) of first power supplies activated, and activating at least one of the plurality of second power supplies to supply power to the load. The method also includes monitoring for at least one fault condition in each of the active first power supplies and in each of the active second power supplies.
US08067855B2 Power supply circuits
This invention is generally concerned with power supply circuits, and more particularly, with circuits to supply power to a mains supply, such as domestic grid mains, from a photovoltaic device. A photovoltaic power conditioning circuit for providing power from a photovoltaic device to an alternating current mains power supply line, the circuit comprising: a DC input to receive DC power from said photovoltaic device; an AC output configured for direct connection to said AC mains power supply line; a DC-to-AC converter coupled to said DC input and to said AC output to convert DC power from said photovoltaic device to AC power for output onto said power supply line; and an electronic controller directly coupled to said power supply line to measure a voltage of said power supply line and a current in said supply line and to control said DC-to-AC converter responsive to said measuring.
US08067847B1 Variable speed machine assembly and method for making the same
A variable speed machine assembly includes an input shaft, a variable speed magnetically geared generator coupled to the input shaft, an electrical machine coupled to the input shaft, and a power converter coupled to the variable speed magnetically geared generator and the electrical machine. The power converter is configured to use electrical power output by the electrical machine to control a frequency of power output by the variable speed magnetically geared generator.
US08067839B2 Stacked semiconductor package and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed are a stacked semiconductor package and a method for manufacturing the same. The method for manufacturing a stacked semiconductor package includes preparing a substrate formed with a seed metal layer; laminating semiconductor chips having via holes aligned with one another on the seed metal layer to form a semiconductor chip module; and growing a conductive layer inside of the via holes using the seed metal layer to form a conductive growth layer inside of the via holes.
US08067838B2 Semiconductor device having pad structure for preventing and buffering stress of silicon nitride film
A semiconductor device having a pad structure for preventing a stress of a silicon nitride film. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate, a lower structure formed on the semiconductor substrate, a first insulation film formed on the lower structure, a first metal layer coupled to the lower structure through a first metal contact in the first insulation film, a second metal layer formed on the first metal layer, and a plurality of dummy gates having a concentric square structure formed at the lower portion of the pad region on the second metal layer.
US08067837B2 Metallization structure over passivation layer for IC chip
A semiconductor chip suited for being electrically connected to a circuit element includes a line and a bump. The bump is connected to the line and is adapted to be electrically connected to the line. A plane that is horizontal to an active surface of the semiconductor chip is defined. The area that the connection region of the line and the bump is projected on the plane is larger than 30,000 square microns or has an extension distance larger than 500 microns.
US08067836B2 Semiconductor device with reduced increase in copper film resistance
A semiconductor device includes an insulating film including oxygen formed over a semiconductor substrate, a recess formed in the insulating film, a refractory metal film formed on the inner wall of the recess, a metal film including copper, manganese, and nitrogen formed on the refractory metal film, and a copper film formed on the metal film to fill in the recess.
US08067832B2 Embedded integrated circuit package system and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an embedded integrated circuit package system includes: forming a first conductive pattern on a first structure; connecting a first integrated circuit die, having bumps on a first active side, directly on the first conductive pattern by the bumps; forming a substrate forming encapsulation to cover the first integrated circuit die and the first conductive pattern; forming a channel in the substrate forming encapsulation; and applying a conductive material in the channel.
US08067831B2 Integrated circuit package system with planar interconnects
An integrated circuit package system is provided including forming a first substrate, mounting a first integrated circuit to the first substrate, and forming first planar interconnects in contact with the first integrated circuit and electrically connecting the first integrated circuit to the first substrate.
US08067829B2 System and method for multi-chip module die extraction and replacement
A system and method are provided in which a first chip in a stacked multi-chip module configuration is affixed via one or more adhesion layers to a first portion of a partitioned interposer unit. Planar partitions of the interposer are physically bonded via multiple solder “bumps,” which possess high tensile strength but low resistance to horizontal shear force or torque. A second chip is affixed via one or more adhesion layers to the second portion of the partitioned interposer. The chips may thus be separated by horizontally and oppositely shearing or twisting the first and second portions of the partitioned interposer away from one another.
US08067826B2 Power device package comprising metal tab die attach paddle (DAP) and method of fabricating the package
A metal tab die attach paddle (DAP) disposed between the lead frame and a power device die in a power device package reduces the stress exerted on the semiconductor power device die caused by the different coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) of the semiconductor power device die and the lead frame. In addition the power device package substantially prevents impurities from penetrating into the power device package by increasing the surface creepage distance of a sealant resulting from the metal tab DAP and an optional swaging of the lead frame.
US08067821B1 Flat semiconductor package with half package molding
In accordance with the present invention, there are provided multiple embodiments of a semiconductor package, each embodiment including a uniquely configured leadframe sized and configured to maximize the available number of exposed leads in the semiconductor package. More particularly, each embodiment of the semiconductor package of the present invention includes a generally planar die paddle defining multiple peripheral edge segments and a plurality of leads, the exposed portions of the bottom surfaces of which are segregated into at least two concentric rows. Connected to the top surface of the die paddle is at least one semiconductor die which is electrically connected to at least some of the leads of each row. At least portions of the die paddle, the leads, and the semiconductor die are encapsulated by a package body, the bottom surfaces of the die paddle and the leads of both rows thereof being exposed in a common exterior surface of the package body. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the top surfaces of at least some of leads of the leadframe are also exposed in an exterior surface of the package body.
US08067817B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device includes a ferroelectric capacitor formed over a semiconductor substrate, wherein the ferroelectric capacitor including a lower electrode, a ferroelectric film formed on the lower electrode, and an upper electrode formed on the ferroelectric film, and the upper electrode including a first conductive film formed of a first conductive noble metal oxide, and a second conductive film formed of a metal nitride compound formed on the first conductive film.
US08067814B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
In the present invention, a first circuit pattern 3 composing a semiconductor element is formed on the front side of a substrate 1, a first insulating layer 2 is formed on the first circuit pattern 3, solder electrodes 5 for external connection are formed on the first insulating layer 2, a second insulating layer 6 is formed on the backside of the substrate 1, a second circuit pattern 7 is formed on the second insulating layer 6, through vias 8 are formed to connect the first circuit pattern 3 and the second circuit pattern 7, chip passive components 9 are placed on the second circuit pattern 7, and the backside of the substrate is integrally molded with epoxy resin 10 such that the epoxy resin 10 covers the chip passive components 9.
US08067812B2 Acceleration sensor and method of producing the same
An acceleration sensor includes a weight; a base portion, a beam; and a piezo resistance element. The weight is arranged to displace upon receiving acceleration. The base portion is disposed around the weight apart from the weight. The beam has one end portion connected to the weight and the other end portion connected to the base portion. The beam also has a thick layer portion and a thin layer portion having a thickness smaller than that of the thick layer portion. The piezo resistance element is disposed over the thick layer portion and the thin layer portion.
US08067810B2 Self-actuating RF MEMS device by RF power actuation
Systems and methods for controlling a micro electromechanical device using power actuation are disclosed. The disclosed micro electromechanical systems comprise at least one electrostatically actuatable micro electromechanical device and an actuation device. The micro electromechanical device comprises a first conductor and a second conductor having a moveable portion which in use may be attracted by the first conductor as a result of a predetermined actuation power. The actuation device comprises a high frequency signal generator for generating at least part of the actuation power by means of a predetermined high frequency signal with a frequency higher than the mechanical resonance frequency of the moveable portion of the micro electromechanical device.
US08067800B2 Super-junction trench MOSFET with resurf step oxide and the method to make the same
A super-junction trench MOSFET with Resurf Stepped Oxide is disclosed. The inventive structure can apply additional freedom for better optimization and manufacturing capability by tuning thick oxide thickness to minimize influence of charge imbalance, trapped charges, etc. . . . . Furthermore, the fabrication method can be implemented more reliably with lower cost.
US08067798B2 Semiconductor device
The semiconductor device of the present invention includes a first conductive type semiconductor layer; a second conductive type source region formed in a surface layer portion of the semiconductor layer; a groove formed by digging in the source region from a surface thereof; an insulating film laminated on the semiconductor layer to cover a surface of the semiconductor layer; a contact hole penetrating through the insulating film in a layer thickness direction at least at a position facing the groove; a wiring formed on the insulating film; and a contact plug embedded in the contact hole so that a bottom portion thereof enters the groove to electrically connect the wiring and the source.
US08067794B2 Conductive layers for hafnium silicon oxynitride films
Electronic apparatus and methods of forming the electronic apparatus include a HfSiON film on a substrate for use in a variety of electronic systems. The HfSiON film may be structured as one or more monolayers. Electrodes to a dielectric containing a HfSiON may be structured as one or more monolayers of titanium nitride, tantalum, or combinations of titanium nitride and tantalum.
US08067793B2 Semiconductor device including storage capacitor with yttrium oxide capacitor dielectric
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device with high response speed and high reliability. In the method for manufacturing a semiconductor device of the invention, a bonding layer is formed over a substrate, an insulating film and a storage capacitor portion lower electrode are formed over the bonding layer, a single crystal silicon layer is formed over the insulating film, a storage capacitor portion insulating film is formed over the storage capacitor portion lower electrode, a wiring is formed over the storage capacitor portion insulating film, a channel forming region and a low concentration impurity region are formed over the single crystal silicon layer, and a gate insulating film and a gate electrode are formed over the single crystal silicon layer. The storage capacitor portion insulating film is formed by depositing a YSZ film with a single crystal silicon layer used as a base film, whereby the permittivity increases and thus the leakage current from the storage capacitor portion is suppressed.
US08067789B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit device
To provide a semiconductor integrated circuit device advantageous against EM and ESD. A plurality of I/O cells; a power wire formed of a plurality of interconnect layers over the above-described I/O cells; a bonding pad formed in an upper layer of the power wire and in a position corresponding to the I/O cell; and lead-out areas capable of electrically coupling the I/O cell to the bonding pad are provided. The above-described power wire includes a first power wire and a second power wire, and the above-described I/O cell includes first elements coupled to the first power wire and second elements coupled to the second power wire. The first element is placed on the first power wire side, and the second element is placed on the second power wire side. The first power wire and the second power wire can allow for a high current due to the interconnect layers over the I/O cells, thus having robustness against EM and ESD.
US08067783B2 Radiation-emitting chip comprising at least one semiconductor body
A chip includes at least one semiconductor body having a radiation-emitting region, and at least one first contact region which is provided for making electrical contact with the semiconductor body and is spaced apart laterally from the radiation-emitting region. An electrically conductive first contact layer which is transmissive to the emitted radiation and which connects a surface of the semiconductor body, is situated on the radiation exit side of the chip to the first contact region. The surface is free of the radiation-absorbing contact structures.
US08067778B2 Ultraviolet light emitting diode package
An ultraviolet light emitting diode package for emitting ultraviolet light is disclosed. The ultraviolet light emitting diode package comprises an LED chip emitting light with a peak wavelength of 350 nm or less, and a protective member provided so that surroundings of the LED chip is covered to protect the LED chip, the protective member having a non-yellowing property to energy from the LED chip.
US08067775B2 Thin film transistor with two gate electrodes
As a display device has a higher definition, the number of pixels, gate lines, and signal lines are increased. When the number of the gate lines and the signal lines are increased, a problem of higher manufacturing cost, because it is difficult to mount an IC chip including a driver circuit for driving of the gate and signal lines by bonding or the like. A pixel portion and a driver circuit for driving the pixel portion are provided over the same substrate, and at least part of the driver circuit includes a thin film transistor using an oxide semiconductor interposed between gate electrodes provided above and below the oxide semiconductor. Therefore, when the pixel portion and the driver portion are provided over the same substrate, manufacturing cost can be reduced.
US08067773B2 Pixel unit structure of self-illumination display with low-reflection
A self-illumination display is provided, including a first substrate, a light-absorbing structure, a filter layer, a driving circuit unit, and a self-illumination unit. The light-absorbing structure and the filter layer are juxtaposedly disposed over the first substrate. The driving circuit unit is disposed over and shielded by the light-absorbing structure. The self-illumination unit is disposed over the filter layer, including a light-transmissible electrode, a light emitting layer, and a black electrode. The self-illumination unit is disposed over the filter layer, including a light-transmissible electrode, a light emitting layer, and a black electrode. The light-transmissible electrode is disposed over the filter layer while the light emitting layer and the black electrode are sequentially tiered on the light-transmissible electrode. The light-absorbing structure, the filter layer and the black electrode together reduce the reflection of the ambient light and enhance the image contrast.
US08067772B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
An object is to provide a semiconductor device with improved reliability and for which a defect due to an end portion of a semiconductor layer provided in an island-shape is prevented, and a manufacturing method thereof. A structure includes an island-shaped semiconductor layer provided over a substrate, an insulating layer provided over a top surface and a side surface of the island-shaped semiconductor layer, and a gate electrode provided over the island-shaped semiconductor layer with the insulating layer interposed therebetween. In the insulating layer provided to be in contact with the island-shaped semiconductor layer, a region that is in contact with the side surface of the island-shaped semiconductor layer is made to have a lower dielectric constant than a region over the top surface of the island-shaped semiconductor layer.
US08067769B2 Wafer level package structure, and sensor device obtained from the same package structure
A wafer level package structure with a plurality of compact sensors such as acceleration sensors and gyro sensors is provided. This package structure is composed of a semiconductor wafer with plural sensor units, and a pair of package wafers bonded to both surfaces of the semiconductor wafer. Each of the sensor units has a frame having an opening, a movable portion held in the opening to be movable relative to the frame, and a detecting portion for outputting an electric signal according to a positional displacement of the movable portion. Since the semiconductor wafer is bonded to each of the package wafers by a solid-phase direct bonding without diffusion between a surface-activated region formed on the frame and a surface-activated region formed on the package wafer, it is possible to prevent that variations in sensor characteristics occur due to residual stress at the bonding interface.
US08067764B2 Electroactive materials
There is provided an electroactive material having Formula I wherein: Q is the same or different at each occurrence and can be O, S, Se, Te, NR, SO, SO2, or SiR3; R is the same or different at each occurrence and can be hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, alkenyl, or alkynyl; R1 through R8 are the same or different and can be hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, halogen, hydroxyl, aryloxy, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, amino, alkylthio, phosphino, silyl, —COR, —COOR, —PO3R2, —OPO3R2, or CN.
US08067763B2 Quantum dot solar cell with conjugated bridge molecule
A solar cell including a quantum dot, an electron conductor, and a conjugated bridge molecule disposed between the quantum dot and the electron conductor. The conjugated bridge molecule may include a quantum dot anchor that bonds to the quantum dot and an electron conductor anchor that bonds to the electron conductor. In some instances, the quantum dot anchor and/or the electron conductor anchor may independently include two anchoring moieties that can form ring structures with the quantum dot and/or the electron conductor. The solar cell may further include a hole conductor that is configured to reduce the quantum dot once the quantum dot absorbs a photon and ejects an electron through the conjugated bridge molecule and into the electron conductor.
US08067758B2 Nano-structured nuclear radiation shielding
The present (or current) nuclear shielding is bulky and difficult to handle due to the reduced stopping power of the neutral radiations (X, gamma, n) in materials. It is proven that these radiations are reflecting at grazing incidence angles on special substrates called super-mirrors that contain nano-layers of various materials. The usage of nano-structures in an ordered manner or of nano-tubes may create inside the nano-structure the super-mirror reflection conditions and makes these nano-structures act like wave-guide for this neutral radiation driving it and turning at angles greater than 90 degrees requiring a total thickness a few microns only. The usage of ferro or piezo electric nano-structures generates a “shield” structure that has the wave-guides inside with the path dependent on a control voltage. The resultant device is a kind of shield that can be applied inside the core for nuclear reactor criticality control, making an electric control of the power level by adjusting the shielding transmission or outside for minimizing the nuclear reactor shielding. Other devices such as X, n imaging device, or radiation funneling to increase the efficiency of thin absorbents use are some of the potential applications.
US08067755B2 Production device and production method for an optical device component having a grating structure
A production device and a production method for a grating-type optical component enabling formation of a variety types of FBGs using a single phase mask and an optical component made by the production method or production device for a grating-type optical component are provided. The method involves diffusing at least one of hydrogen or deuterium into an optical fiber and altering the refractive index of the optical fiber by irradiating the fiber with non-interfering UV lamp light.
US08067753B2 Electron beam writing apparatus and method
A Z stage is placed on an XY stage in avoidance of an area to which a mark table is fixed. The mask M is placed on a holding mechanism provided on the Z stage. A middle value of the range adjustable by the focal adjustment mechanism is made coincident with the height of the mark table. The height of the mark table is measured and the heights of plural measurement points of the mask M are measured. The Z stage is moved in such a manner that the height of a middle value between highest and lowest values of the heights of these measurement points coincides with the height of the mark table.
US08067750B2 Area sterilizer and method of disinfection
An ultraviolet area sterilizer or disinfector is incorporated into a building structure where concern exists regarding the presence of pathogenic bacteria on environmental surfaces. Ultraviolet C (UV-C) generators generate UV-C that is directed to architectural partitions of an enclosed area. The architectural partitions reflect UV-C to kill pathogens in the enclosed area. The device transmits a calculated dose of UV-C from a fixture mounted to an architectural partition in the enclosed area. Once an effective cumulative dose of UV-C has been reflected to radiation sensors, as measured by the sensors, the device shuts down.
US08067747B2 Parallel plate electrode arrangement apparatus and method
A system for guiding an ion beam along an axis (Z), comprises at least one section having upper flat plate strip electrodes (Iu, 2u, 3u, 4u and 5u) and lower flat plate strip electrodes (Id, 2d, 3d, 4d and 5d) for producing at least one electric field of substantially symmetric in a parallel direction and substantially antisymmetric in a perpendicular direction with respect to a plane including a beam axis and a fringe-field boundary that is located at the end of the at least one section.
US08067746B2 Radiation image capturing system
The present invention relates to a radiation image capturing system. A radiation detector of a radiation detecting cassette detects a radiation that has passed through a patient, and an accumulated exposed radiation dose calculator calculates an accumulated exposed radiation dose by accumulating radiation image information detected by the radiation detector, at every image capturing. The calculated accumulated exposed radiation dose is transmitted, together with cassette ID information, to a console. In the console, a status determining unit compares the accumulated exposed radiation dose with an allowable accumulated exposed radiation dose for the radiation detecting cassette to determine the status of the radiation detecting cassette, and issues a warning based on the determined status.
US08067736B2 Electromagnetic radiation detector with nanowire thermometer and method for producing same
The electromagnetic radiation detector comprises at least one membrane suspended above a substrate by at least one nanowire. The nanowire forms a thermoelement comprising an electrically conducting core and external layer, respectively doped of different types and insulated form one another by an electrical insulation layer. When the substrate and membrane are at different temperatures, the nanowires constitutes a thermometer providing measurement signals, by Seebeck effect, representative of heating the membrane.
US08067734B2 Target marker having quantum cascade laser for thermally marking a target
A method of marking a target includes intersecting a thermal infrared beam from a handheld housing at room temperature with the target, a portion of a beam path extending from the housing to the target being substantially optically direct. The method also includes viewing the intersected beam with a remote thermal imaging device.
US08067727B2 Portable composite bonding inspection system
In a surface inspection system for detecting particles on a surface, a light source mounted to illuminate the surface provides multiple wavelength ranges of electromagnetic radiation. An optical detector produces an image of the surface. An optical signal is produced indicative of returned electromagnetic radiation at each of a plurality of the multiple wavelength ranges from a field of view on the surface. A processor operating on the optical signals resolves presence of a contaminant as a function of the optical signals, and produces a contaminant signal responsive to presence of a contaminant. A heating means positioned to evolve contaminants from the surface is responsively coupled to be activated in response to a contaminant signal. The multiple wavelength ranges comprise ultraviolet, visible, and infrared wavelengths. The processor comprises means to perform false color contrast stretching.
US08067726B2 Universal instrument calibration system and method of use
Certain embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for electromagnetic calibration of an instrument. Certain embodiments provide an electromagnetic instrument calibration system including electromagnetic receiver electronics for receiving electromagnetic field information from an electromagnetic transmitter. The system also includes a calibration mount configured to position the electromagnetic receiver electronics stationary with respect to the calibration mount for calibrating an instrument having an electromagnetic transmitter using the calibration mount and the electromagnetic receiver electronics. Certain embodiments provide a method for calibration of an instrument based on electromagnetic field information including providing a calibration mount accommodating a plurality of instruments in a known position and orientation and having electromagnetic calibration electronics positioned with respect to the calibration mount; receiving electromagnetic field information for an instrument with respect to a known position of the calibration mount and electromagnetic calibration electronics; and calibrating at least a portion of the instrument.
US08067720B2 Image sensing device and imaging system
An image sensing device includes a pixel array, a plurality of column amplification units each including a setting unit, and a plurality of reference signal supply units. A first reference signal and a second reference signal are common to a plurality of columns in the pixel array. Each of the plurality of column amplification units amplifies the difference between the first reference signal and the second reference signal to output the amplified difference, or amplifies each of the first reference signal and the second reference signal to output the amplified first reference signal and the amplified second reference signal. The setting unit of each amplification unit sets an amplification factor which is determined in accordance with a signal output from each of the plurality of column amplification units so as to reduce variations of the amplification factor between the plurality of column amplification units.
US08067718B2 Method and apparatus for probing
A probe comprises a small “consumable” probe substrate permanently mounted to a circuit-under-test. The probe substrate includes a high-fidelity signal pathway, which is inserted into a conductor of the circuit-under-test, and a high-bandwidth sensing circuit which senses the signal-under-test as it propagates along the signal pathway. The probe substrate further includes a probe socket for receiving a detachable interconnect to a measurement instrument. Power is alternatively supplied to the probe by the circuit-under-test or the interconnect. When the interconnect is attached, control signals from the measurement instrument are supplied to the sensing circuit and the output of the sensing circuit is supplied to the measurement instrument. In one embodiment, the sensing circuit uses high-breakdown transistors in order to avoid the use of passive attenuation. In a further embodiment, the sensing circuit includes broadband directional sensing circuitry.
US08067715B2 Heated construction box
A heated construction box includes a heater constructed for generating heat within the construction box when connected to a power source. The construction box may include a dehumidifier, extendable supports and/or a retractable power cord assembly, as well as a cooled compartment, a hot plate and/or a microwave oven for heating or cooling solvent, paint, lacquer, epoxy, sealant, caulk, tar and the like, or food and beverage.
US08067711B2 Deposition apparatus and methods
Microspray apparatus and methods involve injecting powdered material into a plasma gas stream. The material comprises first and second component powders. The second powder is a majority by the weight of the powdered material. The first powder acts as a melting point depressant. The first and second powders may have similar compositions but with the first powder including a greater quantity of a melting point depressant element.
US08067709B2 Haptic steering wheel switch device and haptic steering wheel switch system including the same
The present invention provides a haptic steering wheel switch device and a haptic steering wheel switch system including the same. The haptic steering wheel switch device comprises: a housing mounted in a steering wheel; a printed circuit board disposed inside of the housing; and a haptic rotary switch unit including a haptic rotary switch driver disposed in the housing and adapted to generate a rotational force in response to an electrical signal, a haptic rotary switching power transfer unit adapted to transfer the rotational force generated from the haptic rotary switch driver, and a haptic rotary switch knob exposed outside of the housing and connected to the haptic rotary switching power transfer unit to receive the rotational force from the haptic rotary switching power transfer unit.
US08067708B2 Electrical appliance housing
An electrical appliance housing including a hard plastic housing body defining a switch-actuating aperture. The aperture is sealed with a soft plastic membrane. An actuating button is fastened to a hard plastic base that is bonded to the membrane.
US08067706B2 Timer for operating electric appliances at Saturday and Holyday according to Jewish religious law
A control device (timer) enabling activation of electric appliances for a required time period at Saturday and Holyday within the frame of Jewish religious law is disclosed. The timer comprises a first timing device, activating the appliance from time to time for a short period, and then deactivating it, and a second timing device, which, when activated manually or at any other way, delays the appliance deactivation by the first timing device for a required time period, and so makes the appliance usable for this period, beginning from the nearest initiation thereof by the first timing device. The timer can be a stand alone device or built into the appliance.
US08067705B2 Draft shield for a weighing apparatus that has friction reduction protrusions near the bottom of the sliding doors to engage the top of the guide grooves
A lower portion of a slide door of a windshield for a weighing apparatus is located in a guide groove of the main body of the windshield, along which guide groove the slide door opens and closes. A protrusion is protruded in a lower portion of the slide door and the protrusion engages an upper face of a frame in which the guide groove is formed. The protrusion supports weight of the slide door, and is slid on the upper face of the frame while the slide door does not come into contact with a bottom surface of the guide groove, thereby opening and closing the slide door.
US08067704B2 System and method for weighing particulate material moving on a conveyor
A system and method for weighing varying throughput of conveyed particulate material. The system has a weighing unit for measuring weight of material conveyed on a span of the conveyor and a speed monitoring unit to monitor the speed of the conveyor. A control module is programmed to calculate the instant value of material conveyed per unit length of the conveyor. An output from the control module reduces conveyor speed in response to a reduction in measured weight of material conveyed and increases conveyor speed in response to an increase in measured weight of material conveyed. High accuracy of measurement of the weight of particulate material being conveyed even when the conveyor is lightly loaded.
US08067703B1 Protective cable frame for use with low voltage bracket or electrical box
A protective cable frame for providing a portal for routing low voltage cables through a wall. The protective cable frame includes a substantially rectangular frame portion with an inner periphery having a rounded surface, two ends, and arms extending from each end. The arms include an outer bore and an inner slot therein. The inner slots enable insertion of fasteners for direct mounting of the cable frame to a low voltage bracket or an electrical box and permit squaring of the cable frame with respect to the wall. The outer bores in the arms of the protective cable frame enable receipt of fasteners for mounting a cover plate thereto. The protective cable frame is capable of receiving low voltage cables for routing them through a wall to an adjacent room. The rounded surface on the inner periphery provides a gentle bend radius to cables routed there through.
US08067700B2 Via structure of printed circuit board
A printed circuit board (200) includes at least one via (280) defined therein, the via has an upper cap (220) formed on a top surface of the PCB, and a lower cap (240) formed on a bottom surface of the PCB. A conductive hole (290) is defined in the PCB having a plated sidewall (230) plated on its inner surface, and a first clearance hole (271) is defined in a first inner layer (260) of the PCB around the sidewall. A first transmission line (210) defined on the top surface of the PCB is coupled to the upper cap, a first void (273) extending from a boundary of the first clearance hole being disposed along the layout direction of the first transmission line.
US08067697B2 Flexible printed circuit board for light emitting diode backlight unit and method of fabricating the same
A flexible printed circuit board (PCB) for a light emitting diode backlight unit includes a flexible base film; a plurality of metal lines on a first surface of the flexible base film; a cover layer on the metal lines and covering a center portion of the first surface of the flexible base film; a first gold-plating pattern on the metal lines and at both ends of the first surface of the flexible base film; a metal pattern on a second surface of the flexible base film and including a first sub-pattern at one end of the second surface, a second sub-pattern at the other end of the second surface and a plurality of third-sub patterns between the first and second sub-patterns of the metal pattern; and a second gold-plating pattern on the metal pattern and including a fourth sub-pattern on the first sub-pattern, a fifth sub-pattern on the second sub-pattern, and a plurality of sixth-sub patterns each on the third sub-patterns, wherein a first groove between a first double-layered pattern of the first sub-pattern and the fourth sub-pattern and a second double-layered pattern of the third sub-pattern and the sixth sub-pattern, a second groove between a third double-layered pattern of the second sub-pattern and the fifth sub-pattern and a second double-layered pattern of the third sub-pattern and the sixth sub-pattern, and a third groove between adjacent second double-layered patterns respectively expose a portion of the second surface of the flexible base film.
US08067696B2 Printed circuit board and method for manufacturing same
A printed circuit board includes an insulating layer, a copper layer formed on the insulating layer and a reinforcing layer formed on the copper layer at opposite sides of the given portion. The copper layer includes a plurality of electrical traces at a given portion thereof. A thickness of the reinforcing layer increases in a direction away from the given portion. A method for manufacturing the printed circuit board is also provided in this disclosure.
US08067694B2 High voltage cable
An extruded high voltage cable including a conductor with at least three concentric layers of helically wound metal wires, an extruded inner conducting layer surrounding the conductor, and an extruded electrical insulation arranged outside the inner conducting layer. The two outermost layers of the conductor have the same lay direction.
US08067684B2 Filter device and electronic musical instrument using the filter device
In a filter device, a filter coefficient calculation circuit has a parameter table. The parameter table stores a plurality of sets of filter coefficients associated with a first parameter based on a frequency and a second parameter based on respective plurality of levels representing a degree of attenuation or enhancement of a gain of a filter in filter characteristics. The filter coefficient calculation circuit extracts a set of filter coefficients from a parameter table with the use of the first parameter and the second parameter determined according to a frequency and a strength of a musical sound signal, and outputs the extracted set of filter coefficients to the filter. The filter circuit performs filter processing for the musical sound signal, based on the filter characteristics determined by the set of filter coefficients.
US08067682B2 Music score recognition method and system thereof
A music score recognition method and a system thereof are provided. In the present method, a music score is detected and at least one measure in the music score is obtained by searching bar lines, so as to plan a recognition order according to the position of each measure in the music score. Next, an image capturing apparatus is controlled to capture one of the measures according to the recognition order, and music information in the captured measure is recognized and outputted immediately. The method follows the recognition order to repeatedly perform the steps of controlling the image apparatus, recognizing the captured measure, and outputting the music information on the other measures until each of the measures has been processed.
US08067681B2 Pepper hybrid E 499524
Hybrid pepper cultivar designated ‘E 499524’ which is a Sweetbite type and suitable for covered cultivation and open field, is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of hybrid pepper cultivar ‘E 499524’ and to the plants of hybrid pepper cultivar ‘E 499524’. The invention also relates to methods for producing a pepper plant, either inbred or hybrid, by crossing the hybrid cultivar ‘E 499524’ with itself or another pepper cultivar. The invention further relates to methods for producing other pepper cultivars derived from the hybrid ‘E 499524’.
US08067679B1 Soybean cultivar 92394228
A soybean cultivar designated 92394228 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 92394228, to the plants of soybean 92394228, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 92394228, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 92394228 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety 92394228, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 92394228, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar 92394228 with another soybean cultivar.
US08067678B2 Soybean cultivar 94222415
A soybean cultivar designated 94222415 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 94222415, to the plants of soybean 94222415, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 94222415, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 94222415 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety 94222415, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 94222415, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar 94222415 with another soybean cultivar.
US08067676B2 Soybean cultivar 83121431
A soybean cultivar designated 83121431 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 83121431, to the plants of soybean 83121431, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 83121431, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 83121431 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety 83121431, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 83121431, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar 83121431 with another soybean cultivar.
US08067673B2 Methods for plant regeneration, transformation and production of insect resistant transgenic Okra
The present description concerns methods for regeneration of whole plant from the explants obtained from the Abelmoschus species preferably A. esculentus. In addition the present description also concerns methods for transforming okra plant, plant cells and tissues either with the use of recombinant Agrobacterium strain or by bombarding the explants with tungsten or gold particles coated with DNA sequences of interest. An efficient method to isolate embryos from imbibed seeds of okra is also described which enables the use of young meristematic cells of plumule tip for efficient regeneration and transformation of okra plants. Further, transformed okra plants, plant cells and tissues for improved agronomic/non agronomic traits and insect resistance are produced either by using marker based or marker free systems.
US08067672B2 Flower tissue-specific promoter and uses thereof
A flower tissue-specific promoter, and uses thereof, is the promoter for Phalaenopsis 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid synthase, ACC synthase gene PtACS2, and has a sequence as shown in SEQ ID No: 2. The invention further provides a gene expression cassette, which is composed of a promoter having a DNA sequence as SEQ ID No: 2, and a polynucleotide with an open reading frame linked to the 3′ end of said promoter, wherein said promoter can activate transcription of said polynucleotide in an organism containing said gene expression cassette. The invention provides furthermore a gene expression vector, which is composed of a promoter having a DNA sequence as SEQ ID No: 2. The invention provides further a method for producing a transgenic plant or parts of organ, tissue or cell of the transgenic plant that contain a gene expression cassette described above.
US08067666B2 Model animal causing the white hair development and methods relating thereto
A model rodent animal with a phenotype in which hair growing after birth is black, with the animal spontaneously developing white hair after aging. By way of example, the model rodent animal may have a genotype in which an activated RET gene is genetically inserted in a heterozygous form and the endothelin receptor B gene is deficient in a heterozygous form.
US08067665B2 Methods of using human tissue factor-producing knock-in mice
A non-human animal that produces human tissue factor (TF) without substantially producing non-human animal tissue factor, said animal having a genome in which cDNA encoding human TF has been inserted upstream of the translation initiation codon for the non-human animal genomic TF gene.
US08067662B2 Systems and methods for wound protection and exudate management
The present invention provides systems and methods for protecting a wound and managing exudate released from the wound comprising a dressing having a support cushion for surrounding the wound and periwound region; a wicking strip for application in the periwound region between the support cushion and the wound; and a reservoir for application over the wicking strip, the wicking strip configured to transfer exudate from the wound to the reservoir, where the exudate is sequestered. Various alternative embodiments are described in which the wicking strip may be custom-fit to approximate an irregular wound margin, to apply a preferred pressure gradient to the periwound regions, to periodically apply fluids to the wound bed or to apply negative pressure wound therapy. Methods of applying the dressing also are provided.
US08067661B2 Method for decomposing water-soluble fluorinated organic compound
To provide a good and simple method for decomposing and detoxifying a hardly decomposable fluorinated organic compound.Specifically, a fluorinated organic compound is decomposed by bringing an aqueous solution of the fluorinated organic compound into contact with a catalyst containing a metal oxide. The metal oxide may preferably be an oxide of at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Ni, Pd, Cu, Mn, Fe and Co, and more preferably be nickel oxide. The contact temperature is preferably within the range of from 0 to 100° C. Preferably, the fluorinated organic compound to be decomposed is an organic fluorocarboxylic acid, an organic fluorosulfonic acid or a salt thereof, which is used as a surfactant or an surface treatment agent.
US08067660B2 Method and system for restraining a chemical discharge
A method for restraining a chemical discharge comprising (a) deploying a binding agent into a receptacle containing a hazardous material in a liquid state upon the occurrence of at least one predetermined event that increases the risk of accidentally discharging or leaking the hazardous material from the receptacle; and (b) contacting the hazardous material with the binding agent to form a composition comprising at least a portion of the hazardous material and the binding agent and having at least one property selected from a solid or semisolid state, a viscosity greater than the viscosity of the hazardous material at ambient conditions, a vapor pressure lower than the vapor pressure of the hazardous material at ambient conditions, and a surface tension greater that the surface tension of the hazardous material.
US08067658B2 Isomerization process
An isomerization process is disclosed including contacting a n-hexane hydrocarbon feed containing less than about 10 volume % naphthenic hydrocarbons with a catalyst to produce an iso-hexane containing product; wherein the catalyst is prepared by: a) incorporating tungsten on a zirconium hydroxide solid; b) drying and calcining the tungsten impregnated zirconium hydroxide; c) sizing the dried and calcined material to particle sizes between about 150 and about 600 microns; d) incorporating a Group VIII metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, platinum and palladium, and combinations thereof, on the sized material; e) drying and calcining the Group VIII metal impregnated tungsten/zirconia material; and f) contacting the second dried and calcined material with hydrogen in a reducing environment to form the catalyst which contains tungsten, zirconia and a Group VIII metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, platinum and palladium, and combinations thereof.
US08067653B2 Methods for producing fuels and solvents
Described herein are methods for producing fuels and solvents from fatty acid resources. In general, the pyrolysis products of fatty acids are extracted in order to remove residual fatty acids and produce very pure hydrocarbon compositions composed of alkanes and alkenes. The fatty acids removed from the extraction step can be further pyrolyzed to produce additional hydrocarbons or, in the alternative, the fatty acids can be isolated and used in other applications. Also disclosed herein are fuels and solvents produced by the methods described herein.
US08067651B2 1-alkyl-5-oxopyrrolidine-3-carboxylic esters with improved biodegradability
The invention provides compounds of the formula 1 in which A is a C2- to C4-alkylene group x is from 1 to 100 R1 is C1-C30-alkyl, C2-C30-alkenyl, C7-C30-alkylaryl R2 is an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic or aromatic radical which contains at least one structural unit of the formula 2  and y is from 0 to 100, with the proviso that y is from 1 to 100 when R2 is of the formula 2, and their use in amounts of from 0.01 to 2% by weight for preventing the formation of gas hydrates in aqueous phases which are in contact with a gaseous, liquid or solid organic phase.
US08067647B2 Method for producing β-nitrostyrene compound
A method for producing a β-nitrostyrene compound is provided in which a benzaldehyde derivative represented by the following formula (I): and nitromethane are condensed in an acetic acid solvent in the presence of a primary amine. This method allows production of a β-nitrostyrene compound at a high yield in the industrially-safe reaction temperature range.
US08067645B2 Process for producing a chlorhydrin from a multihydroxylated aliphatic hydrocarbon and/or ester thereof in the presence of metal salts
Process for producing a chlorohydrin by reaction between a multihydroxylated-aliphatic hydrocarbon, an ester of a multihydroxylated-aliphatic hydrocarbon, or a mixture thereof, and a chlorinating agent, according to which the multihydroxylated-aliphatic hydrocarbon, the ester of a multihydroxylated-aliphatic hydrocarbon, or the mixture thereof used contains at least one solid or dissolved metal salt, the process comprising a separation operation to remove at least part of the metal salt.
US08067643B2 Sulphonium salt initiators
Compounds of the formula (I), L, L′, L″, L1, L′1, L″1, L2, L′2, L″2, L3, L′3, L″3, L4, L′4, L″4, L5, L′5, L″5, L6, L′6, L″6, L7, L′7, L″7, L8, L′8 and L″8 independently of one another are hydrogen or an organic substituent; and/or one or more of the pairs L3 and L5, L′3 and L′5 or L″3 and L″5 together denote a single bond, provided that the respective X, X′ or X″ is not a single bond; and/or L3 and L5, L′3 and L′5 or L″3 and L″5 together denote an organic linking group; and/or one or more of the pairs L1 and L3, L1 and L, L5 and L7, L′1 and L′3, L′1 and L′, L′5 and L′7, L″1 and L″3, L″1 and L″, or L″5 and L″7, together denote an organic linking group; provided that at least one of L, L′, L″, L1, L′1, L″1, L2, L′2, L″2, L3, L′3, L″3, L4, L′4, L″4, L5, L′5, L″5, L6, L′6, L″6, L7, L′7, L″7, L8, L′8 and L″8 is other than hydrogen; X, X′ and X″ independently of one another are a single bond, CRaRb O, S, NRc or NCORc; Ra, Rb and Rc independently of one another are hydrogen or an organic substituent; and Y is an inorganic or organic anion; are suitable as photolatent acid generators.
US08067642B2 Chiral phosphorous compounds
The present invention provides P-chiral compounds of general formulae (II) and (III): in formula (II) at least one of R21, R25, R26 and R30 is independently selected from CM alkyl, CF3, C1-4 alkoxy, phenyl and benzyloxy and the remaining substituents selected from R21, R25, R26 and R30 are hydrogen; at least one of R22, R24, R27 and R29 are independently selected from C1-14 alkyl, CF3, C1-14 alkoxy, phenyl and benzyloxy and the remaining substituents selected, from R22, R24, R27 and R29 are hydrogen; and R23 and R28 are independently selected from hydrogen, CM alkyl, CF3, C1-14 alkoxy, phenyl and benzyloxy; in formula (III) at least one of R21, R25, R26 and R30 is independently selected from phenyl and benzyloxy and the remaining substituents selected from R21, R25, R−26 and R30 are hydrogen; and R22, R−23 R24, R27, R28 and R29 are independently selected from hydrogen, C1-14 alkyl, CF3, C1-14 alkoxy, phenyl and benzyloxy.
US08067639B2 Crystalline form VI of agomelatine, a process for its preparation and pharmaceutical compositions containing it
Crystalline form VI of the compound of formula (I): characterised by its X-ray powder diffraction diagram. Medicinal products containing the same which are useful in treating melatoninergic disorders.
US08067633B2 Method for the synthesis of (meth)acrylic esters catalysed by a polyol titanate
The subject of the invention is a method for the synthesis of (meth)acrylic esters by transesterification in the presence of a catalyst corresponding to the formula [(R′O)3Ti]xR″ in which R′ is a linear or branched alkyl radical having from 2 to 8 carbon atoms which may contain heteroatoms or R′ is a phenyl radical, R′ is a polyfunctional radical, originating from a polyol R′(OH)x comprising x alcohol functional groups and x is an integer ranging from 2 to 6. The method according to the invention is particularly well suited to the synthesis of dialkylaminoalkyl (meth)acrylates from methyl (meth)acrylate and a dialkylaminoalcohol.
US08067624B2 Method for producing biodiesel using an immobilised catalyst
A method produces a fatty acid alkylester by transesterification of a fat or oil and an alcohol. The reaction is catalysed by a heterogeneous catalyst immobilized in a tubular reactor at a temperature between 260 and 420° C. and at a pressure higher than 5 bar. A mixture of the fat or oil and the alcohol is led in a continuous flow through the tubular reactor. The catalyst is preferably a metal oxide or a metal carbonate including an alkaline earth metal. The reaction takes place at reduced residence times and contact times compared to the prior art.
US08067623B2 Ring opening cross-metathesis reaction of cyclic olefins with seed oils and the like
This invention relates generally to olefin metathesis, and more particularly relates to the ring-opening, ring insertion cross-metathesis of cyclic olefins with internal olefins such as seed oils and the like. In one embodiment, a method is provided for carrying out a catalytic ring-opening cross-metathesis reaction, comprising contacting at least one olefinic substrate with at least one cyclic olefin as a cross metathesis partner, in the presence of a ruthenium alkylidene olefin metathesis catalyst under conditions effective to allow ring insertion cross metathesis whereby the cyclic olefin is simultaneously opened and inserted into the olefinic substrate. The invention has utility in the fields of catalysis, organic synthesis, and industrial chemistry.
US08067621B2 Benzenesulfonyl-chromane, thiochromane, tetrahydronaphthalene and related gamma secretase inhibitors
This invention discloses novel gamma secretase inhibitors of the formula: R2 and R3, or R2 and R4, or R3 and R4, together with the atoms to which they are bound, can form a fused cycloalkyl or fused heterocycloalkyl ring. The cycloalkyl ring or the heterocycloalkyl ring can be optionally substituted with one or more substitutents. One or more compounds of formula (I), or formulations comprising such compounds, may be useful, e.g. in treating Alzheimer's Disease.
US08067618B2 Method for gas phase oxidation using a moderator layer
A process for gas phase oxidation in which a gaseous stream which comprises at least one aromatic hydrocarbon and molecular oxygen is passed through one or more catalyst layers, wherein a moderator layer is arranged between two catalyst layers arranged in succession in flow direction of the gaseous stream, the moderator layer being less catalytically active than the catalysts adjacent upstream and downstream or being catalytically inactive. The desired oxidation products are obtained in high yield over prolonged periods.
US08067616B2 Total synthesis of salinosporamide A and analogs thereof
The present invention relates to certain compounds and to methods for the preparation of certain compounds that can be used in the fields of chemistry and medicine. Specifically, described herein are methods for the preparation of various compounds and intermediates, and the compounds and intermediates themselves. More specifically, described herein are methods for synthesizing Salinosporamide A and its analogs from a compound of formula (V).
US08067611B2 Substituted 1-(thiazolyl)-and 1-(isothiazolyl)pyrazol-4-ylacetic acids, processes for their preparation and their use as herbicides and plant growth regulators
The invention relates to 1-(thiazolyl)- and 1-(isothiazolyl)pyrazol-4-ylacetic acid derivatives of the general formula (I) and salts thereof in which Het, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6 and n are as defined in claim 1. The compounds (I) or salts thereof are suitable for use as herbicides and plant growth regulators, in particular as herbicides for the selective control of harmful plants in crops of useful plants and can be prepared by processes as described in claim 9.
US08067608B2 Hedgehog pathway antagonists
Aromatic compounds for treating various diseases and pathologies are disclosed. The methods use of such compounds are also provided. Accordingly, the present invention makes available methods and compositions for inhibiting aberrant growth states resulting from hedgehog gain-of-function, ptc loss-of-function or smoothened gain-of-function.
US08067604B2 Process for production of carebastine
Processes are disclosed for preparing piperidine derivative compounds of the formulae I, II or III:
US08067601B2 1-[2-(4-benzyl-4-hydroxy-piperidin-1 -yl )-ethyl]-3-(2-methyl-quinolin- 4-yl)- urea as crystalline sulfate salt
The invention relates to 1-[2-(4-benzyl-4-hydroxy-piperidin-1-yl)-ethyl]-3-(2-methyl-quinolin-4-yl)-urea as a crystalline, stoichiometrically defined and non-hygroscopic sulfate salt and a process for its preparation. Further, the present invention relates to the use of said 1-[2-(4-benzyl-4-hydroxy-piperidin-1-yl)-ethyl]-3-(2-methyl-quinolin-4-yl)-urea as a crystalline, stoichiometrically defined and non-hygroscopic sulfate salt alone or in combination with other compounds. Further, the present invention relates to formulations of said 1-[2-(4-benzyl-4-hydroxy-piperidin-1-yl)-ethyl]-3-(2-methyl-quinolin-4-yl)-urea as a crystalline, stoichiometrically defined and non-hygroscopic sulfate salt in the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions. The invention also relates to the use of such sulfate salts in formulations as neurohormonal antagonists.
US08067598B2 Heterofused piperidines as orexin antagonists
The present invention relates to compounds of formula wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are as defined herein and hetaryl is a one or two ring-membered heteroaromatic ring system, connected to the carbon atoms of the piperidine group selected from the group consisting of or to pharmaceutically suitable acid addition salts, optically pure enantiomers, racemates or diastereomeric mixtures thereof. These compounds are orexin receptor antagonists and may be useful in the treatment of disorders in which orexin pathways are involved, like sleep disorders.
US08067596B2 Processes for the production of (+)- “Nal” morphinan compounds
The invention generally provides processes and intermediate compounds useful for the production of (+) nal morphinan compounds. In particular, the process encompasses synthetic routes for the production of (+) nal morphinan compounds or derivatives of (+) nal morphinan compounds from (+)-morphinan substrates such as (+)-hydrocodone, (+)-norhydrocodone or derivatives of either compound.
US08067594B2 Process for the production of benzopyran-2-ol derivatives
The invention provides a process for producing a compound of formula (I), wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of CH3, CH2OH, CH2CH2OH, CH2Br and Br; comprising the steps of: (i) reacting a compound of formula (II), wherein OX represents hydroxy or O−M+, in which M+ is a cation selected from Li+, Na+ and K+, and Y is as defined above; with trans-cinnamaldehyde (III), in the presence of a secondary amine compound; then (ii) treating the product of the preceding step with acid to afford the compound of formula (I). The above process may also be used in the production of tolterodine and fesoterodine, which are useful in the treatment of overactive bladder.
US08067593B2 Process for preparing aminocrotonylamino-substituted quinazoline derivatives
The invention relates to an improved process for preparing aminocrotonylamino-substituted quinazoline derivatives of general formula (I) wherein the groups Ra, Rb, Rc and Rd have the meanings given in the claims, as well as sulphonyl derivatives of formula and the use thereof as synthesis components for preparing quinazolines of formula (I). The quinazoline derivatives of formula (I) are inhibitors of signal transduction mediated by tyrosinekinases and by the Epidermal Growth Factor-Receptor (EGF-R) and are therefore particularly suitable for the treatment of tumoral diseases.
US08067589B2 Heterocyclic compounds useful in treating diseases and conditions
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates thereof, wherein the substituents are as defined herein, compositions containing such compounds and the uses of such compounds for the treatment of various diseases and conditions such as asthma.
US08067587B2 Process for the production of monoalkali metal cyanurates
A process for making monoalkali metal cyanurates in a powdery form from a cyanuric acid powder by adding thereto a concentrated aqueous solution of an alkali hydroxide such as sodium or potassium hydroxide. The concentrated aqueous alkali hydroxide solution is added sequentially to the cyanuric acid powder as the admixture is vigorously mixed, forming a monoalkali metal cyanurate as a hydrated powder.
US08067561B2 Isolated DNA encoding recombinant glucose isomerase
This invention provides a series of recombinant Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum glucose isomerases with improved catalytic activity and thermostability obtained by using recombinant techniques. These recombinant glucose isomerases comprise amino acid variation including phenylalanine (Phe) at position 139, alanine (Ala) at position 182, serine (Ser) at position 187, and glutamine (Gin) at position 299, and carry at least one additional mutated amino acid at position 87, position 217, position 260 or position 276, and possess a higher catalytic activity than that of the wild-type when using D-glucose as substrate. These recombinant glucose isomerases can be used for direct production of high fructose corn syrup containing 55% [wt] or higher concentration of fructose.
US08067558B2 Constitutively active fragments of eukaryotic heat shock RNA
The present invention provides a novel RNA, designated herein as the “HSR1” (Heat Shock RNA), constitutively active HSR1 fragments, and the use of HSR1 and constitutively active HSR1 fragments for generation of novel therapeutics for the treatment of various diseases in animals and for generation of stress-resistant plants.
US08067555B2 Derivatives of partially desulphated glycosaminoglycans as heparanase inhibitors, endowed with antiangiogenic activity and devoid of anticoagulating effect
Partially desulphated glycosaminoglycan derivatives are described, particularly heparin, and more particularly a compound of formula (I) where the U, R and R1 groups have the meanings indicated in the description. These glycosaminoglycan derivatives have antiangiogenic and heparanase-inhibiting activity and are devoid of anticoagulant activity.
US08067552B2 Method for preparing a target protein using the sHSPs
The present invention relates to a method for separating and purifying a target protein, a method for preparing a target protein, and a method for bioconversion by a whole cell enzyme or a partially purified enzyme. According to the present invention, when the sHSPs are added in cultivation, separation and purification processes for preparing a target protein, the target protein can be obtained at high yields by preventing the loss of protein by proteases. Also, when sIISPs are added in a reaction process using a whole cell enzyme or a partially purified enzyme, the yield of bioconversion using enzyme can be increased by preventing the loss of enzyme by proteases.
US08067544B2 Antibodies against T cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin domain 1 (TIM-1) antigen and uses thereof
The invention described herein is related to antibodies directed to the antigen TIM-1 and uses of such antibodies. In particular, there are provided fully human monoclonal antibodies directed to the antigen TIM-1. Isolated polynucleotide sequences encoding, and amino acid sequences comprising, heavy and light chain immunoglobulin molecules, particularly sequences corresponding to contiguous heavy and light chain sequences spanning the framework regions (FR's) and/or complementarity determining regions (CDR's), specifically from FR1 through FR4 or CDR1 through CDR3, are provided. Hybridomas or other cell lines expressing such immunoglobulin molecules and monoclonal antibodies are also provided.
US08067536B2 Kinase and phosphatase assays
Compositions, methods, and kits for detecting and monitoring kinase, phosphatase and protein post-translational modification activity are described. The compositions typically include a peptide, a detectable moiety, and a protease cleavage site. Modification of a peptide by a kinase, phosphatase or other protein post-translational modification alters the proteolytic sensitivity of the peptide, resulting in a change of a detectable property of the composition. Panel assays for determining substrates or modulators of kinase, phosphatase or other protein post-translational modification activity are also described.
US08067534B2 Carbon nanotube binding peptides
Peptides have been generated that have binding affinity to carbon nanostructures and particularly carbon nanotubes. Peptides of or the invention are generally about twelve amino acids in length. Methods for generating carbon nanotube binding peptides are also disclosed.
US08067533B2 Peptides and peptide derivatives, the production thereof as well as their use for preparing a therapeutically and/or preventively active pharmaceutical composition
The invention relates to peptides and peptide derivatives of the following general Formulas (Ia) and (Ib) as well as in particular anti-inflammatory drugs containing these peptides.
US08067532B2 Modifications of peptide compositions to increase stability and delivery efficiency
The disclosed invention relates to methods of modifying peptide compositions to increase stability and delivery efficiency. Specifically, the disclosed invention relates to methods to increase the stability and delivery efficiency of protein kinase C (PKC) modulatory peptide compositions. A “therapeutic peptide composition” comprises a “carrier peptide” and a “cargo peptide.” A “carrier peptide” is a peptide or amino acid sequence within a peptide that facilitates the cellular uptake of the therapeutic peptide composition. The “cargo peptide” is a PKC modulatory peptide. Peptide modifications to either the carrier peptide, the cargo peptide, or both, which are described herein increase the stability and delivery efficiency of therapeutic peptide compositions by reducing disulfide bond exchange, physical stability, reducing proteolytic degradation, and increasing efficiency of cellular uptake.
US08067531B2 Inactivated pepsin fragments for modulating immune system activity against human malignant tumor cells
Isolated anti-cancer peptides are disclosed which are characterized by the amino acid sequences TLTSGGGAIALPPSMAAPPLGPVAPLTGAIHAPTXG; TLSTATGGAIPPVAAMPPGLVAPTHGPAIHP; CCATSGPCGAVMILTPHLTA; MTLTTGSGAIAPAMPPGLPPHTGAIHAPM; and NXVPVSVEGYXQITLDSITX and a significant in vitro binding affinity for gp96. The peptides exhibit anti-tumor, anti-cancer activity in vivo. Also disclosed is an isolated antiviral peptide is characterized by the amino acid sequence GDEPLENYLDTEYF and a significant in vitro binding affinity for HIV-1 gp 120 and gp 41, and human CD4 cells. The peptide exhibits anti-retroviral activity in vivo, particularly anti-HIV-1 activity.
US08067528B2 Method for producing fluorine-containing polymer, aqueous dispersion of fluorine-containing polymer, 2-acyloxycarboxylic acid derivative, and surface active agent
The present invention provides a method of producing a fluoropolymer, wherein polymerization using a carboxylate ester bond-containing carboxylic acid derivative as a surfactant in an aqueous medium to give the fluoropolymer is conducted, the above carboxylate ester bond-containing carboxylic acid derivative has a carboxylate ester bond and —COOM (M representing H, NH4, Li, Na or K), the above carboxylate ester bond may optionally be substituted by fluorine atom.
US08067523B2 Thermosetting resin composition, laminated body using it, and circuit board
It is an object of the present invention to provide a thermosetting resin composition having satisfactory adhesiveness, good processability, high heat resistance, and excellent dielectric characteristics in the GHz band; and a laminate and a circuit board including the thermosetting resin composition.The present invention provides a thermosetting resin composition including an imide oligomer component (A) containing at least one imide oligomer having a specific structure and an epoxy resin component (B) containing at least one epoxy resin. Furthermore, the present invention provides the thermosetting resin composition further including a polyimide resin component (C).
US08067521B2 Amphiphilic co-networks, films made from amphiphilic co-networks and uses for such co-networks and films
The present invention relates to the production of amphiphilic copolymer networks or co-networks that are both hydrophobic and hydrophilic, the copolymer networks comprise polyalkylene glycol segments and disubstituted polysiloxane segments. Furthermore, the present invention relates to products and/or films made from the amphiphilic copolymer networks or co-networks produced in accordance with the synthesis methods of the present invention. In one embodiment, amphiphilic networks or co-networks are synthesized using functional multiblock co-polymers according to the formula (AY)x(BY)y, where A represents an alkylene glycol polymer having n repeating alkylene glycol units, B represents a disubstituted siloxane polymer having m repeating siloxane units, and Y represents a molecule (e.g., a silane) that functions both as a chain extender and a crosslinker.
US08067519B2 Organosiloxane compositions
A method of preparing a diluted chain extended organopolysiloxane containing polymer comprising the steps of reacting a pre-formed polymer with a suitable chain extender reactable with terminal groups of the polymer in the presence of a diluent material, a suitable catalyst and optionally an end-blocking agent; and Where required quenching the polymerization process wherein the diluent material is substantially retained within the resulting diluted organopolysiloxane containing polymer. The case additionally relates to products of the process and subsequent applications for the polymer such as for example sealants and rubbers.
US08067517B2 Water-soluble copolymer having alkyl-modified carboxyl groups
A water-soluble copolymer having alkyl-modified carboxyl groups which is able to produce a neutralized viscous liquid in which although its viscosity is very low when no electrolyte exists, the viscosity greatly increases when electrolytes are added, which has a sufficiently high viscosity and a very high transmittance and which has moist textures without stickiness even in the presence of a relatively high concentration of electrolytes, and a thickening agent comprising the same.
US08067516B2 Copolymer for positive type lithography, polymerization initiator used in production of said copolymer, and composition for semiconductor lithography
A copolymer for positive type lithography, having at least a recurring unit (A) having a structure wherein an alkali-soluble group is protected by an acid-dissociating, dissolution-suppressing group, represented by the following formula (A) [in the formula (A), R10 is a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group which may be substituted by fluorine atom; R11 is a crosslinked, alicyclic hydrocarbon group; n is an integer of 0 or 1; and R12 is an acid-dissociating, dissolution-suppressing group], and a terminal structure (B) having a structure wherein an alkali-soluble group is protected by an acid-dissociating, dissolution-suppressing group, represented by the following formula (B) [in the formula (B), R21 is a hydrocarbon group which may contain nitrogen atom; R22 is an acid-dissociating, dissolution-suppressing group; and p is a site of bonding with copolymer main chain]. The copolymer is used in chemically amplified positive type lithography and is superior in lithography properties (e.g. dissolution contrast).
US08067510B2 High melt flow propylene impact copolymer and method
The present disclosure provides a polymerization process for the production of a high melt flow propylene impact copolymer. The process includes contacting an active propylene-based polymer having a melt flow rate greater than about 100 g/10 min with one or more olefins in a polymerization reactor to form the propylene impact copolymer with a melt flow rate greater than about 60 g/10 min. The production of the high melt flow propylene impact copolymer may occur in one or more polymerization reactors, utilizing standard hydrogen concentration, and no visbreaking.
US08067504B2 Acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesives with acylaziridine crosslinking agents
A pre-adhesive composition is described comprising an acid-functional (meth)acrylate copolymer and an acylaziridine crosslinking agent, which when crosslinked provides a pressure-sensitive adhesive and pressure-sensitive adhesive articles.
US08067503B2 Process for producing blends of syndiotactic, 1,2-polybutadiene and rubbery elastomers
Blends of syndiotactic 1,2-polybutadiene and rubbery elastomers are prepared by a process that comprises polymerizing 1,3-butadiene monomer into syndiotactic 1,2-polybutadiene within a rubber cement of an elastomeric terpolymer by using a chromium-based, molybdenum-based, or iron-based catalyst composition. Polymer composition comprising the blend with improved properties is also provided.
US08067502B2 Thermoplastic resin composition, a solar cell sealing sheet, and a solar cell
The present invention provides a thermoplastic resin composition that gives a solar cell sealing sheet having, even without being crosslinked, good mechanical strength, solar cell sealability, transparency, and weatherability.The thermoplastic resin composition of the present invention comprises 1 to 95% by weight of a propylene-based polymer (A) and 5 to 99% by weight of a copolymer (B) with at least one α-olefin having 2 to 20 carbon atoms other than propylene, wherein (A) satisfies the following (i) and (ii), and (B) has a melting point below 80° C. or does not show a melting point as measured by a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). (i) Melting point measured by a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) method is in the range of 80 to 135° C. (ii) Endotherm attributable to crystal melting is not observed at 140° C. or more in the endothermic curve measured by a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) method.
US08067501B2 Propylene-based blown films with improved performance, stability and elastic properties compared to polyethylene films
A thermoplastic composition for cast and blown films and the resulting films thereof are provided. The film can include about 10 wt % to 80 wt % propylene-based copolymer having at least 50 wt % propylene-derived units and 5 wt % to 30 wt % alpha-olefin comonomer, based on the total weight of the polymer that exhibits a melting point of about 100° C. to 170° C., and a MFR of about 200 dg/min or less. The film can include about 20 wt % to 90 wt % polypropylene homopolymer having a melting point of about 140° C. to 190° C. The film can have a thickness of about 10 μm to 100 μm, a haze of 13% or less, a 1% MD Secant tensile modulus of 55,000 to 150,000 psi, a machine direction Elmendorf tear of at least 5 g/mil and a transverse direction Elemdorf tear of at least 300 g/mil, and a 45 degree gloss of at least 70.
US08067498B2 Curable composition
The present invention has its object to provide a transparent curable composition which may be prepared as a one package formulation, and which is excellent in strength, elongation at break, weather resistance, and adhesiveness of the resultant cured product.In addition, the present invention provides a curable composition which comprises 100 parts by weight of a vinyl polymer (I) the main chain of which is the product of living radical polymerization and which contains a crosslinkable silyl group, and 1 to 200 parts by weight of a micronized hydrophobic silica (II). Furthermore, the present invention also provides a curable composition which comprises 100 parts by weight of a vinyl polymer (I) the main chain of which is the product of living radical polymerization and which contains at least one crosslinkable silyl group, and 1 to 200 parts by weight of a graft copolymer (III) obtained by graft polymerization of a crosslinkable rubber-like acrylic ester polymer and a vinyl monomer.
US08067493B2 Polymer compositions, method of manufacture, and articles formed therefrom
A composition comprises, based on the total weight of the composition: from 10 to 80 wt. % of a modified polybutylene terephthalate copolymer that (1) is derived from polyethylene terephthalate component selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene terephthalate copolymers and (2) has at least one residue derived from the polyethylene terephthalate component; from 10 to 80 wt. % of a polycarbonate; from 0 to 20 wt. % of an impact modifier; from 1 to less than 25 wt. % of a reinforcing filler; from 0.1 to less than 2.5 wt. % of a fibrillated fluoropolymer; from 0 to 5 wt. % of an additive selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, mold release agents, colorants, quenchers, stabilizers, and combinations thereof. The composition has a heat deflection temperature of at least 110° C., measured in accordance with to ASTM D648 on 3.2 mm thick molded bars at 0.455 MPa.
US08067492B2 Biodegradable hot-melt adhesive composition
The invention relates to biodegradable hot-melt adhesive compositions, preferably without residual tackiness at room temperature and having a biodegradability, as measured by the released carbon-dioxide analysis method pursuant to Standard EN ISO 14855, that is higher than 55% , preferably higher than 60% , and preferably higher than 90% , and to the use thereof. This percentage is given by reference with the cellulose biodegradability measurement, which amounts to 100% in the same conditions.
US08067491B2 Silated cyclic core polysulfides, their preparation and use in filled elastomer compositions
This invention relates to novel sulfur-containing silane coupling agents, and organic polymers containing carbon-carbon double bonds. These novel silanes can be carried on organic and inorganic fillers. The invention also relates to articles of manufacture, particularly tires, made from the elastomer compositions described herein.
US08067490B2 Blended phosphite or phosphonite compositions having improved hydrolytic stability
A composition and method for increasing the hydrolytic stability of a stabilizer composition comprising a first phosphite, a second phosphite, an optional phosphonite and an acid scavenger.
US08067486B1 Low VOC water-based epoxy coatings
An aqueous multi-component epoxy coating composition having less than 3% by weight of VOCs and curable upon admixing the components comprises (a) a first component of (i) a stable epoxy dispersion of an epoxy resin, from 5 to 20 weight percent of a mixture of surfactants comprising a low temperature nonionic surfactant having a molecular weight of from 1,000 to 7,000; a high temperature nonionic surfactant having a molecular weight of greater than 7,000 to 20,000 and an anionic surfactant, and (b) a second component of (i) a water miscible polyamine, wherein the composition further contains an associative thickener as well as thixotropic clay and/or a cellulosic thickener as additional thickener(s).
US08067484B2 Latent hardener with improved barrier properties and compatibility
A curing agent for epoxy resins that is comprised of the reaction product of an amine, an epoxy resin, and an elastomer-epoxy adduct; compositions containing the curing agent and an epoxy resin; the compositions are useful in electronic displays, circuit boards, semi conductor devices, flip chips and other applications.
US08067483B2 Adjuvant-mediated reactivity enhancement of polymerizable diacetylenic materials
Indicator inks, indicators formed by printing or otherwise utilizing the inks and host products utilizing the indicators are disclosed. Reactivity-enhancing adjuvants stimulate enhanced thermal reactivity of diacetylenic or other indicator agents capable of responding to ambient thermal conditions with a visual change signaling an end point. The diacetylenic or other agents may be sensitive or relatively insensitive to ambient temperatures. Use of a reactivity-enhancing adjuvant provides a useful means for adapting the reactivities of indicator agents to the response characteristics of prospective host products, for example perishables such as vaccines or fresh fish and maturables such as fruit, cheese and wine. Some exemplary adjuvants include low-temperature polymerization initiators, for example methyl ethyl ketone peroxide and polymerization accelerators, for example cobalt compounds. Such initiators and accelerators can also be used in combination.
US08067482B2 Material for producing plastic molded parts that can be used in the field of dentistry
A process for the preparation of plastic molded articles which can be used in the dental field, the process including the steps of: mixing A) at least one polymerizable component and B) at least one initiator in desensitized form to form a paste having a consistency does not demix during injection; injecting the paste into a cuvette; and polymerizing the mixture by applying heat.
US08067480B2 Porous polyisocyanate polyaddition products
Process for producing porous polyisocyanate polyaddition products by reacting (a) isocyanates with (b) compounds which are reactive toward isocyanates in the presence of (f) solvent, wherein compounds having a functionality toward isocyanates of at least 6 and a molecular weight of at least 1000 g/mol are used as (b) compounds which are reactive toward isocyanates.
US08067479B2 Polyurethane foam
A microcellular polyurethane obtainable by reacting a polyisocyanate, a polyester formed from a dimer fatty acid and/or dimer fatty diol, and a chain extender. The foam is particularly suitable for use as a component of shoe soles.
US08067475B2 Adhesive sheet comprising hollow parts and method for preparing the same
Disclosed herein are an adhesive sheet comprising a cured acrylic polymer, hollow polymeric microspheres dispersed and ruptured in the cured acrylic polymer, and hollow parts formed by rupturing the hollow polymeric microspheres dispersed in the cured acrylic polymer, and a preparation method thereof.
US08067473B2 Methods for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of topoisomerase inhibitors
Disclosed are methods and compositions useful in identifying an E3 ubiquitin ligase inhibitor and modulating cell growth, comprising contacting a cell with an effective amount of an inhibitor of an E3 ubiquitin ligase, and contacting the cell with an effective amount of a topoisomerase inhibitor, wherein the treatment with the E3 ubiquitin ligase inhibitor and topoisomerase inhibitor modulates cell growth in comparison to a cell treated with the topoisomerase inhibitor alone. The present invention further provides methods for identifying and making an E3 ubiquitin ligase inhibitor.
US08067471B2 Composition comprising free amino acids
A composition is described that can be used in prevention or treatment of patients having impaired gastro-intestinal tract function. The composition comprises free amino acids including about 9.0% to about 17.0% glutamic acid. Methods of treatment of impaired gastro-intestinal tract function are described.
US08067467B2 Thiosuccinic acid derivatives and the use thereof
The present invention relates to compounds of the formula (I) wherein X1 and X2 independently represent O, NH or S, R1 and R2 are independently selected from the group consisting of a C1-C30 hydrocarbyl group, an amino acid bonded via an amide bond or a peptide bonded via an amide bond each having up to 200 amino acids, the conjugated residue X1 or X2 in this case being NH, and hydrogen, both radicals R1 and R2 preferably not being H, wherein R3 is a residue selected from group consisting of —S—R6, wherein R6 is a C1-C30 hydrocarbyl group, at least one of R1 and R2 not being H when X1 and X2 are oxygen, —S—CH2—CH(NH2)(COOH) (cysteine-S-yl), a homologue or derivative (e.g. N-acetyl cysteine-S-yl) thereof, a peptide having up to 200 amino acids which contains at least one amino acid radical with a thiol group, preferably a cysteine radical, and is bonded via the thio sulfur, preferably via the cysteine sulfur (peptide-S-yl), coenzyme A which is bonded via a thiol group or fragments thereof, acyl carrier protein bonded via a thiol group, and dihydrolipoic acid bonded via a thiol group, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The present invention also relates to the use of these compounds for preparing a drug and drugs containing the same.
US08067465B2 Tricyclic-bis-enone derivatives and methods of use thereof
Novel tricyclic-bis-enone derivatives (TBEs) as well as the process for the preparation of such TBEs are provided. Also provided are methods for prevention and/or treatment of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotropic lateral sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and all other diseases whose pathogenesis is believed to involve excessive production of either nitric oxide (NO) or prostaglandins or the overexpression of iNOS or COX-2 genes or gene products. Further, methods for the synthesis of the TBE compounds of the invention utilize cheap commercially available reagents and are highly cost effective and amenable to scale-up. Additional high efficiency synthetic methods that utilize novel intermediates as well as the synthesis of these intermediates are also provided. Furthermore, the invention also provides methods for designing novel and water-soluble TBEs.
US08067464B2 Compositions and methods using apocynin compounds and nitric oxide donors
The invention describes novel compositions comprising at least one apocynin compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one nitric oxide donor, and, optionally, at least one therapeutic agent. The invention also provides novel kits comprising at least one apocynin compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one nitric oxide donor compound, and, optionally, at least one therapeutic agent. The invention also provides methods for (a) treating cardiovascular diseases; (b) treating renovascular diseases; (c) treating diabetes; (d) treating diseases resulting from oxidative stress; (e) treating endothelial dysfunctions; (f) treating diseases caused by endothelial dysfunctions; (g) treating gastrointestinal disorders; (h) treating inflammatory disorders; and (j) treating respiratory disorders; and (k) treating peripheral vascular diseases. The apocynin compound may preferably be apocynin. The nitric oxide donor compound may preferably be isosorbide dinitrate and/or isosorbide mononitrate.
US08067459B2 Lapachone compounds and methods of use thereof
The invention provides lapachone analogs and derivatives as well as methods of use thereof. These compounds can be used in pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment or prevention of cell proliferation disorders. These compounds can also be used in the treatment or prevention of cancer or precancerous conditions.
US08067453B2 Neurotrophin production/secretion promoting agent
A neurotrophin production/secretion promoting agent which comprises an azole derivative of the formula: wherein R1 represents a halogen atom, a heterocyclic group which may optionally be substituted, a hydroxy group which may optionally be substituted, a thiol group which may optionally be substituted, or an amino group which may optionally be substituted; A represents an acyl group which may optionally be substituted, a heterocyclic group which may optionally be substituted, a hydroxy group which may optionally be substituted, or a carboxyl group which may optionally be esterified or amidated; B represents an aromatic group which may optionally be substituted; X represents oxygen atom, sulfur atom, or nitrogen atom which may optionally be substituted; and Y represents a divalent hydrocarbon group or heterocyclic group, or a salt thereof; which is useful as an agent for preventing or treating neuropathy.
US08067452B2 3-hydroxyisothiazole-4-carboxamidine derivatives as CHK2 inhibitors
This invention provides compounds of Formula I which are inhibitors of Chk2 and are useful as a radiation protection agents in anticancer radiotherapy. A method of modulating Chk2 in vitro includes treating a substrate with Chk2 in the presence of compounds of formula I. A method of making a compound of formula I includes: a) forming a biaryl amine having an amino (NH2) group; b) converting the amino group to an isothiocyanate group; c) adding a cyanoacetamide to the isothiocyanate group to form a thioamide adduct; d) cyclizing the thioamide adduct to form an isothiazole having a cyano group; and e) adding an amine to the cyano group to form a carboxamidine group.
US08067450B2 Thiazolidinedione analogues for the treatment of metabolic diseases
The present invention relates to thiazolidinedione analogues that are useful for treating hypertension, diabetes, and inflammatory diseases. Formula (I), wherein: each of R1 and R4 is independently selected from H, halo, aliphatic, and alkoxy, wherein the aliphatic and alkoxy are optionally substituted with 1-3 of halo; R2 is halo, hydroxy, or optionally substituted aliphatic, and R′2 is H, or R2 and R′2 together form oxo; R3 is H; and Ring A is a phenyl.
US08067449B2 Modulators of pharmacokinetic properties of therapeutics
The present application provides for a compound of Formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, and/or ester thereof, compositions containing such compounds, therapeutic methods that include the administration of such compounds, and therapeutic methods and include the administration of such compounds with at least one additional therapeutic agent.
US08067446B2 Methods for treating an ulcer of the small intestine and stomach
A method for treating a digestive ulcer of the small intestine or stomach is disclosed with a non-purine xanthine oxidase inhibitor that is a carboxylic acid compound, wherein the non-purine xanthine oxidase inhibitor is a carboxylic acid compound of formula (I) or its salt and wherein the terms of formula (I) are herein defined:
US08067444B2 Pyridoxamine for the treatment of diabetic intermediaries and post-amadori inhibition
The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising dosage units of pyridoxamine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and methods for their use in limiting the progression of renal disease and/or diabetic complications in human diabetic patient.
US08067441B2 Use of collismycin and derivatives thereof as oxidative stress inhibitors
The present invention relates to the use of Collismycin and derivatives thereof as inhibitors of oxidative stress in cells and their use for the preparation of medicaments for the treatment of oxidative stress-induced diseases or conditions, especially neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease.
US08067436B2 c-Met modulators and methods of use
The present invention provides compounds for modulating protein kinase enzymatic activity for modulating cellular activities such as proliferation, differentiation, programmed cell death, migration and chemoinvasion. More specifically, the invention provides quinazolines and quinolines which inhibit, regulate, and/or modulate kinase receptor, particularly c-Met, KDF, c-Kit, flt-3 and flt-4, signal transduction pathways related to the changes in cellular activities as mentioned above, compositions which contain these compounds, and methods of using them to treat kinase-dependent diseases and conditions. The present invention also provides methods for making compounds as mentioned above, and compositions which contain these compounds.
US08067434B2 Compounds and methods for development of Ret modulators
Compounds active on Ret are described, as well as methods of using such compounds. Also described are crystal structures of Ret surrogates that were determined using X-ray crystallography. The use of such Ret surrogate crystals and structural information can, for example, be used for identifying molecular scaffolds and for developing ligands that bind to and modulate Ret and for identifying improved ligands based on known ligands.
US08067433B2 Methods, compositions, and kits for the treatment of ophthalmic disorders
The invention features methods, kits, and compositions for the treatment of ophthalmic disorders. The compositions include a corticosteroid in combination with a non-steroidal immunophilin-dependent immunosuppressant.
US08067429B2 Forms of rifaximin and uses thereof
The present invention relates to Rifaximin polymorphic, salt, hydrate, and amorphous forms, to their use in medicinal preparations and to therapeutic methods using them.
US08067427B2 Pharmaceutical compositions comprising ZD6474
A pharmaceutical composition comprising ZD6474 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, a brittle diluent and a second diluent which is practically insoluble and has ductile compression properties.
US08067422B2 Crystal form of phenylamino pyrimidine derivatives
The present invention relates to a particular form of the (3,5-bis trifluoromethyl)-N-[4-methyl-3-(4-pyridin-3yl-pyrimidin-2ylamino)-phenyl]-benzamide (formula I), processes for the preparation thereof, pharmaceutical compositions containing this crystal form, and their use as anti tumor agent in humans. The compound of formula I, also known as AN-019, is:
US08067421B2 Polymorphic forms of imatinib mesylate and processes for preparation of novel crystalline forms as well as amorphous and form α
Solvates and crystalline forms of imatinib mesylate are described. Further, methods for preparing such solvates and crystalline forms of imatinib mesylate are described.
US08067420B2 Substituted pyrazinone melanin concentrating hormone receptor-1 antagonists and methods
The present application provides compounds, including all stereoisomers, solvates, prodrugs and pharmaceutically acceptable forms thereof according to Formula I wherein R1, R2, R3, R8, and R9 are defined herein. Additionally, the present application provides pharmaceutical compositions containing at least one compound according to Formula I and optionally at least one additional therapeutic agent. Finally, the present application provides methods for treating a patient suffering from an MCHR-1 modulated disease or disorder such as, for example, obesity, diabetes, depression or anxiety by administration of a therapeutically effective dose of a compound according to Formula I.
US08067417B2 Imidazo[1,2-F]pteridines useful as inhibitors of protein kinases
The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of protein kinase, represented by Structural Formula (I): wherein the variables in Structural Formula (I) are as described herein. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising said compounds and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disease, conditions, or disorders. The invention also provides processes for preparing compounds of the inventions.
US08067415B2 Compounds useful as antagonists of CCR2
The present invention provides compounds of general formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein X, n, Y, and R1 are defined generally and in subsets herein. Compounds of the invention are inhibitors of CCR2 and accordingly are useful for the treatment of a variety of inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune diseases, disorders, or conditions.
US08067414B2 Nitric oxide enhancing prostaglandin compounds, compositions and methods of use
The invention provides compositions and kits comprising at least one nitric oxide enhancing prostaglandin compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and, optionally, at least one nitric oxide enhancing compound and/or at least one therapeutic agent. The invention also provides methods for (a) treating ophthalmic disorders; (b) treating cerebrovascular disorders; (c) treating cardiovascular disorders; (d) treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); (e) treating peptic ulcers; (e) treating sexual dysfunctions and (f) inducing abortions. The nitric oxide enhancing prostaglandin compounds comprise at least one heterocyclic nitric oxide donor group and/or at least one nitroxide group.
US08067411B2 Compounds
The present invention provides compounds of formula wherein R1, Y1, X1, Z1, X2, Y2, A, n and R2 are as defined in the specification, processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy.
US08067410B2 Phenolic and catecholic amines and prodrugs thereof
The present invention relates to novel phenolic and catecholic amines of Formula I, to processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, to their use in therapy and to their use in radiolabeled form as PET- or SPECT ligands.
US08067409B2 Protein kinase inhibitors
Compounds that inhibit protein kinases, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases using the compounds are disclosed.
US08067405B2 Superoxide dismutase mimics for the treatment of ocular disorders and diseases
The use of SOD mimics, particularly Mn(III) salen SOD mimics, for the treatment of AMD, DR, and retinal edema is disclosed.
US08067403B2 Methods and systems for preparing an antimicrobial composition
A coating system and method are described. In some embodiments, a system may include a composition. The composition may include one or more bridged polycyclic compounds. At least one of the bridged polycyclic compounds may include at least two cyclic groups, and at least two of the cyclic groups may include quaternary ammonium moieties. In some embodiments, a method may include applying an antimicrobial composition to a surface. The coating may be antimicrobial. A coating may include antimicrobial bridged polycyclic compounds. In some embodiments, bridged polycyclic compounds may include quaternary ammonium compounds. In some embodiments, bridged polycyclic compounds may include guanidinium moieties. Bridged polycyclic compounds based coating systems may impart self-cleaning properties to a surface.
US08067402B2 Methods and systems for coating an oral surface
A coating system and method are described. In some embodiments, a system may include a composition. The composition may include one or more bridged polycyclic compounds. At least one of the bridged polycyclic compounds may include at least two cyclic groups, and at least two of the cyclic groups may include quaternary ammonium moieties. In some embodiments, a method may include applying a coating to an oral surface. The coating may be antimicrobial. A coating may include antimicrobial bridged polycyclic compounds. Bridged polycyclic compounds may include quaternary ammonium compounds. Bridged polycyclic compounds based coating systems may impart self-cleaning properties to a surface (e.g., a tooth surface).
US08067401B2 Compounds and compositions for treating infection
Compounds from 14 Kenyan plants, including from the root of Dovyalis abyssinica and Clutia robusta have been characterized and isolated, and their uses are disclosed.
US08067400B2 Androgen treatment in females
A method of improving cumulative embryo score may comprise administering an androgen to a human female for at least about four consecutive months followed by harvesting and fertilizing oocytes and forming embryos. A method of increasing the quantity of fertilized oocytes in one cycle of in vitro fertilization may comprise administering an androgen to a human female for at least about four consecutive months, harvesting and fertilizing the oocytes. A method of normalizing ovarian DHEA may include administering an androgen for at least about four consecutive months. A method of decreasing the time to pregnancy and increasing the rate of pregnancy by administering an androgen for at least about two months. A method of decreasing miscarriage rates may comprise administering an androgen for at least about two months to a female. Moreover, a method of decreasing aneuploidy rates in human embryos may comprise administering an androgen to a female for at least about two months.
US08067398B2 Biodegradable polymers having a pre-determined chirality
Optically active polymers that are composed of monomer residues derived from chiral pre-polymerized monomers, which maintain the chirality of the pre-polymerized monomers upon polymerization are disclosed. These polymers can be composed of monomer residues that are derived from readily available chiral monomers and can be designed to have pre-determined characteristics such as chirality, biodegradability and functionality. Uses of these polymers as therapeutically active agents, and/or as carriers of therapeutically active agents, for delivering the active agents to a targeted bodily site and/or for a sustained release of the active agent, are further disclosed. Also disclosed are processed of preparing the polymers, compositions and medical devices containing the polymers, and conjugates of these polymers and various agents.
US08067397B2 Transdiscal administration of cycline compounds
The present invention relates to administering a doxycycline compound into a diseased intervertebral disc.
US08067394B2 Synthesis and biological activities of new tricyclic-bis-enones (TBEs)
This invention describes novel tricyclic-bis-enone derivatives (TBEs), such as TBE-31, TBE-34, TBE-45 and water-soluble TBEs. The methods of preparing these compounds are also disclosed. The inventors demonstrate the ability of these new TBEs to inhibit proliferation of human myeloma cells, inhibit the induction of iNOS in cells stimulated with interferon-γ, induce heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), induce CD11b expression—a leukemia differentiation marker, inhibit proliferation of leukemia cells, induce apoptosis in human lung cancer, and induce apoptosis in other cancerous cells. The TBEs of this invention are expected to be useful agents for the treatment and prevention of many diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, inflammation, and pathologies involving oxidative stress.
US08067393B2 Sugar-immobilized metal nanoparticle, method for measuring sugar-protein interaction using the same and method for recovering protein from sugar-protein interactant
It is intended to provide a stable novel sugar-immobilized metal nanoparticle capable of easily immobilizing a sugar chain, a method for measuring sugar-protein interaction easily and at a low cost using the same without labeling, and a method for simply recovering a protein from a sugar-protein interactant. A maltose-immobilized gold nanoparticle was obtained by binding a ligand complex, in which maltose and a linker compound had been bound to each other, to a gold nanoparticle. By adding this maltose-immobilized gold nanoparticle to a dilution series of concanavalin A, a sugar-protein interactant of maltose and ConA was formed, and red-purple color derived from a colloidal solution of maltose-immobilized gold nanoparticle disappeared. That is, sugar-protein interaction could be confirmed by visual observation without labeling.
US08067391B2 ODCase inhibitors for the treatment of malaria
The present invention includes methods of treating or preventing malaria by administering an anti-malarial effective amount of 6-substituted uridine derivatives to a subject need thereof. The invention also includes new 6-substituted uridine derivatives for use as therapeutics, in particular to treat malaria.
US08067388B2 Decoy-containing pharmaceutical compositions and method of using the same
A pharmaceutical composition is provided for treatment and prevention of a disease caused by expression of a gene controlled by NF-κB or ets. The composition comprises at least one decoy and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The decoy is an NF-κB decoy, an ets decoy, or a chimera decoy of NF-κB and ets. The disease is cerebral aneurysm, cancer, Marfan's syndrome, aortic detachment, post-angioplasty restenosis, chronic articular rheumatism, asthma, atopic dermatitis, nephritis, renal failure, or plaque rupture. The pharmaceutically acceptable carrier may be a hydrophilic polymer.
US08067387B2 Method for stimulating angiogenesis using DKK2 and composition comprising the same
The present invention relates to a method for stimulating angiogenesis using by DKK2 and composition comprising the same. The DKK2 protein of the present invention showed stimulating activities of tube formation on HUVEC, promoting activity of the sprouting of arterial circle tissues and promoting activity of vascular development in the embryo of mouse. Therefore, it can be used as the therapeutics or functional health food for treating and preventing ischemic disease.
US08067384B2 Chimera (double) decoy
The present invention provides a prophylactic, ameliorative or therapeutic medicament for vascular restenosis, ischemic disease, allergic disease, inflammatory disease, autoimmune disease, or cancer metastasis, invasion (cancer metastasis/invasion) or cachexia based on the inhibitory action on a plural of transcriptional regulatory factor. A chimera (double) decoy of the present invention has plural transcriptional regulatory factor binding sequences in a single molecule thereof. Thus, it is able to inhibit the activity of plural transcriptional regulatory factors with a single molecule. For example, stenosis of an anastomosed site of an artificial blood vessel is caused by thickening of the vascular intima, and this is mainly caused by activation of cell proliferation by an inflammatory reaction occurring at the anastomosed site. Thus, thickening of vessel walls can be inhibited by simultaneously inhibiting two transcriptional regulatory factors involved in inflammation and cell proliferation by using the chimera decoy of the present invention.
US08067377B2 Peptide compositions for targeting adipose tissue
The present invention concerns methods and compositions for in vivo and in vitro targeting. A large number of targeting peptides directed towards human organs, tissues or cell types are disclosed. The peptides are of use for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents, including but not limited to gene therapy vectors. A novel class of gene therapy vectors is disclosed. Certain of the disclosed peptides have therapeutic use for inhibiting angiogenesis, inhibiting tumor growth, inducing apoptosis, inhibiting pregnancy or inducing weight loss. Methods of identifying novel targeting peptides in humans, as well as identifying endogenous receptor-ligand pairs are disclosed. Methods of identifying novel infectious agents that are causal for human disease states are also disclosed. A novel mechanism for inducing apoptosis is further disclosed.
US08067374B2 Adhesive hemostatic agent based on porcine atelocollagen and method for production thereof
Disclosed is an adhesive hemostatic agent based on non-blood constituents including DOPA, able to strongly adhere to collagen fibers. The agent includes an antifibrinolytic agent in addition to an esterified atelocollagen which is non-immunogenic and may become positively charged thereon such that the adhesive hemostatic agent has no possibility of mediating particular diseases or viral infections (HIV, HCV, HBV, CMV, etc), unlike conventional agents comprising blood constituents, and readily binds to negatively charged platelets at high adhesive strength, thus inducing quick blood coagulation. Also, provided is a method for preparing the same.
US08067365B2 Erythropoietin for treatment of multi-organ failure
The compositions and methods disclosed herein are for prevention or treatment of multi-organ failure with erythropoietin. The usefulness of the present invention is that erythropoietin may act to prevent the onset of MOF in a patient at risk of developing it. The present invention may further lessen the effect in one or more affected organs in a patient at risk of developing MOF or in one already diagnosed with it.
US08067360B2 Method for promoting bone growth using activin-ActRIIa antagonists
In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for promoting bone growth and increasing bone density.
US08067358B1 Triple-action remedy for removing toxic oils from skin with simultaneous soothing and healing
Disclosed are formulae and methods for the simultaneous relief of a variety of unpleasant symptoms of poison ivy on the skin. The compositions of the present invention remove toxic urushiol, relieve itching of the skin from urushiol, and heal the dermatitis caused by urushiol. A preferred embodiment of the invention is a topical dosage form which can be applied as often as desired, may be scrubbed onto the skin, and leaves a soothing effect on the skin after rinsing with warm water.
US08067355B2 Benefit agent containing delivery particles
The present invention relates to benefit agent containing delivery particles, compositions comprising said particles, and processes for making and using the aforementioned particles and compositions. When employed in compositions, for example, compositions for cleaning, fabric care, or coating onto various substrates, textiles or surfaces, such particles increase the efficiency of benefit agent delivery, thereby allowing reduced amounts of benefit agents to be employed. In addition to allowing the amount of benefit agent to be reduced, such particles allow a broad range of benefit agents to be employed.
US08067354B2 Softening detergent composition
[PROBLEMS] To provide a softening detergent composition capable of washing a fibrous manufactured article having softening ability, and at the same time allowing a clay mineral to be less likely to remain on clothes.
US08067353B2 Method for making a fabric softener utilizing a dynamic orifice changer
A dynamic orifice is useful in making fabric softening composition.
US08067351B2 Composition with a color marker
A composition comprising at least one indicator, at least one light stabilizer, and at least one antioxidant. The composition is useful as a cleanser that provides a usage timer based on color change to indicate to a user that sufficient time has elapsed for cleansing.
US08067349B2 Oil soluble comb polymers
The invention relates to comb polymers which comprise, in the main chain, repeating units which are derived from polyolefin-based macromonomers, and repeating units which are derived from low molecular monomers which are selected from the group consisting of styrene monomers having 8-17 carbon atoms, alkyl(meth)acrylates having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group, vinyl esters having 1-11 carbon atoms in the acyl group, vinyl ethers having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group, (Di)alkylfumarates having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group, (Di)alkylmaleates having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group and mixtures of said monomers. The molar branching degree lies in the region between 0.1-10 mol. % and the comb polymer represents the sum of at least 80 wt. %, in relation to the weight of the repeating units, on repeating units which are derived from polyolefin-based macromonomers, and repeating units which are selected from low molecular monomers which are selected from the group consisting of styrene monomers having 8-17 carbon atoms, alkyl(meth)acrylates having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group, vinyl esters having 1-11 carbon atoms in the acyl group, vinyl ethers having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group, (Di)alkylfumarates having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group, (Di)alkylmaleates having 1-10 carbon atoms in the alcohol group, and mixtures of said monomers.
US08067347B2 Lubricating oil additive composition and method of making the same
An oil-soluble lubricating oil additive composition prepared by the process which comprises reacting a copolymer, with at least one ether compound, with at least one aliphatic compound, and with at least one aromatic compound.
US08067346B2 Tetraoxy-silane lubricating oil compositions
Disclosed are lubricating oil compositions comprising a major amount of an oil of lubricating viscosity and a tetra-functional hydrolyzable silane compound of the general formula Si—X4 or hydrolysis product thereof, wherein X is independently selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl, alkoxy, aryloxy, acyloxy, amino, monoalkyl amino and dialkyl amino.
US08067344B2 Lubricating grease composition
A lubricating grease composition, which comprises a base oil consisting of a mixture of 100 parts by weight of at least one of a perfluoropolyether oil (A), represented by RfO[CF(CF3)CF2O]p(CF2CF2O)qRf (where Rf is a perfluoroalkyl group having 1-5 carbon atoms, p+q=2-200, q/p=0-2, and q may be 0), and a perfluoropolyether oil (B), represented by F(CF2CF2CF2O)sC2F5 (where s=2-100), and 0-100 parts by weight of at least one of a perfluoropolyether oil (C), represented by RfO(CF2CF2O)m(CF2O)nRf (where m+n=3-200 and m:n=10-90:90-10), and a perfluoropolyether oil (D), represented by RfO[CF(CF3)CF2O]a(CF2CF3O)b(CF2O)cRf (where a+b+c=3-200, b is 0 or an integer of 1 or more, and c is an integer of 1 or more), preferably further admixed with a thickening agent, can suppress corrosion of metallic materials by corrosive gases and also has a good heat resistance.
US08067343B2 Methods and compositions for preventing high density well completion fluid loss
A method of reducing fluid loss from a wellbore that includes emplacing a fluid loss pill in the wellbore, the fluid loss pill comprising: a base fluid; a hydratable or solvatable synthetic copolymer having at least one crosslinkable comonomer; and a crosslinking agent is disclosed.
US08067341B2 Method for fabricating a biochip using the high density carbon nanotube film or pattern
Carbon nanotube (CNT) films, patterns and biochips and methods of making the same are provided. Such a biochip comprises a bio-receptor attached by means of an exposed chemical functional group on a surface of a high density CNT film or pattern produced by repeated lamination of CNTs on a substrate with exposed amine groups. Various types of CNT-biochips may be fabricated by bonding of bio-receptors to a CNT pattern (or film) containing exposed carboxyl groups or modified by various chemical functional groups. Further, the CNT-biochip may be used to measure an electrical or electrochemical signal using both conductor and semiconductor properties of the CNT, thereby not needing labeling. Upon fluorescent measurement of DNA hybridization using such a CNT-DNA chip it is possible to show more distinct signals useful for genotyping, mutation detection, pathogen identification and the like.
US08067337B2 Agricultural chemical composition
An agricultural chemical composition which enables a wide range of herbicidal compounds including ones showing phytotoxicity to crop plants, etc. upon mere application to exhibit a sufficient herbicidal effect and to show reduced or no phytotoxicity to the crop plants. The agricultural chemical composition comprises (A) a herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of sulfonylurea compounds, sulfonamide compounds, chloroacetanilide compounds, thiocarbamate compounds, pyrimidinyloxy(thio)benzoic acid compounds, tetrazolinone compounds, pyrazole compounds, cyclohexanedione compounds, phenoxycarboxylic acid compounds, oxazinone compounds, and difluoromethanesulfonylanilide compounds or salts thereof and (B) a compound selected among benzoic acid compounds.
US08067335B2 Multisided thermal media combinations
Various multisided thermal media image elements, and methods of manufacture thereof, are presented. In one embodiment, a first media substrate is at least partially coated with thermally sensitive ink on one or more of its sides. A second media substrate is coated with the thermally sensitive ink on at least one of its sides. The second media substrate is at least partially integrated with the first media substrate to form a multisided thermal media image element, wherein at least a portion of the second media substrate is capable of being removed for independent use. The multisided first and second media substrates are adapted to be imaged via a thermal printer individually and together upon integration into the image element.
US08067334B2 Selective hydrogenation catalyst
A catalyst on an oxidic support and processes for selectively hydrogenating unsaturated compounds in hydrocarbon streams comprising them using these catalysts are described.
US08067330B2 Catalytic material and catalyst for purifying exhaust gas component
Disclosed is a catalytic material for purifying an exhaust gas component. The catalytic material comprises a composite oxide which contains, as essential components, zirconium (Zr) and neodymium (Nd), and further contains a rare-earth metal R other than cerium (Ce) and neodymium (Nd), wherein each of the zirconium, neodymium and rare-earth metal R constituting the composite oxide is contained, in the form of oxide, in such a manner that a ratio of Nd2O3/(ZrO2+Nd2O3+RO) is 3 mol % or more, and a ratio of (Nd2O3+RO)/(ZrO2+Nd2O3+RO) is 33 mol % or less. The catalytic material of the present invention can oxidize/burn PM in a short period of time, while suppressing CO emission during the burning of the PM, and can achieve further enhanced NOx conversion performance.
US08067319B2 Fibers made from copolymers of ethylene/α-olefins
A fiber is obtainable from or comprises an ethylene/α-olefin interpolymer characterized by an elastic recovery, Re, in percent at 300 percent strain and 1 cycle and a density, d, in grams/cubic centimeter, wherein the elastic recovery and the density satisfy the following relationship: Re>1481−1629(d). Such interpolymer can also be characterized by other properties. The fibers made therefrom have a relatively high elastic recovery and a relatively low coefficient of friction. The fibers can be cross-linked, if desired. Woven or non-woven fabrics can be made from such fibers.
US08067318B2 Elastic nonwoven sheet
This invention relates to stretchable nonwoven sheets prepared by substantially uniformly impregnating a necked nonwoven substrate or an easily extensible as-made nonwoven substrate with an elastomeric polymer by treatment with an elastomeric polymer solution. The nonwoven sheet is useful in the manufacture of diapers and other hygiene articles.
US08067313B2 Semiconductor device, method of manufacturing the same, and electronic apparatus
Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device including forming a transistor on a first surface of a device substrate, forming a hole in a second surface opposite to the first surface of the device substrate, and supplying hydrogen to a gate insulating film of the transistor from the second surface of the device substrate through the hole.
US08067307B2 Integrated circuit package system for stackable devices
An integrated circuit package system comprising: providing a package die; and connecting a connector lead having a first connector end with a protruded connection surface and a lowered structure over the package die.
US08067306B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with exposed conductor and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: providing a substrate; forming a component connector on the substrate; forming a resist layer on the substrate with the component connector exposed; forming a vertical insertion cavity in the resist layer, the vertical insertion cavity isolated from the component connector or a further vertical insertion cavity, the vertical insertion cavity having a cavity side that is orthogonal to the substrate; forming a rounded interconnect in the vertical insertion cavity, the rounded interconnect nonconformal to the vertical insertion cavity; and mounting an integrated circuit device on the component connector.
US08067298B2 Relaxation of a strained material layer with application of a stiffener
The invention relates to methods of fabricating a layer of at least partially relaxed material, such as for electronics, optoelectronics or photovoltaics. An exemplary method includes supplying a structure that includes a layer of strained material situated between a reflow layer and a stiffener layer. The method further includes applying a heat treatment that brings the reflow layer to a temperature equal to or greater than the glass transition temperature of the reflow layer, and the thickness of the stiffener layer is progressively reduced during heat treatment. The invention also relates to an exemplary method of fabricating semiconductor devices on a layer of at least partially relaxed material. Specifically, at least one active layer may be formed on the at least partially relaxed material layer. The active layer may include laser components, photovoltaic components and/or electroluminescent diodes.
US08067296B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
The present invention provides a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device in which a thinned substrate of a semiconductor or semiconductor device is handled without cracks in the substrate and treated with heat to improve a contact between semiconductor back surface and metal in a high yield and a semiconductor device may be manufactured in a high yield. In the method of manufacturing a semiconductor device according to the present invention, a notched part is formed from a surface to a middle in a semiconductor substrate by dicing and the surface of the substrate is fixed to a support base. Next, a back surface of the substrate is ground to thin the semiconductor substrate and then a metal electrode and a carbon film that is a heat receiving layer are sequentially formed on the back surface of the substrate. Next, the carbon film is irradiated with light at a power density of 1 kW/cm2 to 1 MW/cm2 for a short time of 0.01 ms to 10 ms to transfer heat from the carbon film and alloy an interface between a semiconductor and the metal electrode. Subsequently, the semiconductor substrate is separated at the notched part into pieces.
US08067295B2 Manufacturing method of solar cell module, and solar cell and solar cell module
A double-side light receiving solar cell in a planer regular hexagon shape and having first electrodes on both surfaces are divided into four pieces by a line A-A′ connecting two opposing apexes and by a line B-B′ perpendicular to the line A-A′ and connecting center points on two opposing sides. By matching oblique lines of two divided pieces without misalignment and with respective surfaces in an inversed state, the first electrodes on the same side of the two divided pieces align along the same single straight line. Then, the first electrodes that are on the same side are connected with a first inter connecter, thereby constructing a unit having a rectangular outline. Units thus constructed are arranged so that relevant sides match without misalignment. By handling on a unit basis as described above, it is possible to facilitate an arrangement of the cells and an electricity connection work.
US08067294B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device including protective film
It is an object of the invention to provide a lightweight semiconductor device having a highly reliable sealing structure which can prevent ingress of impurities such as moisture that deteriorate element characteristics, and a method of manufacturing thereof. A protective film having superior gas barrier properties (which is a protective film that is likely to damage an element if the protective film is formed on the element directly) is previously formed on a heat-resistant substrate other than a substrate with the element formed thereon. The protective film is peeled off from the heat-resistant substrate, and transferred over the substrate with the element formed thereon so as to seal the element.
US08067287B2 Asymmetric segmented channel transistors
Structures, layouts and methods of forming integrated circuits are described. In various embodiments, the current invention includes an asymmetric segmented transistor. The asymmetric segmented transistor includes a source region and a drain region disposed within an active region, a floating source/drain region disposed within the active region, a first channel region disposed in the active region between the source region and the floating source/drain region, the first channel having a first length and a first width. A second channel region is disposed in the active region between the drain region and the floating source/drain region, the second channel having a second length and a second width. A first gate dielectric overlies the first channel region and a second gate dielectric overlies the second channel region. A gate line overlies the first gate dielectric and the second gate dielectric.
US08067284B1 Oxynitride bilayer formed using a precursor inducing a high charge trap density in a top layer of the bilayer
A semiconductor device including a bilayer charge storing layer and methods of forming the same are provided. Generally, the method includes: (i) forming a first layer of the bilayer charge storing layer; and (ii) forming a second layer formed on a surface of the first layer, the second layer including an oxynitride charge trapping layer. Preferably, the first layer includes a substantially trap free oxynitride layer. More preferably, the oxynitride charge trapping layer includes a significantly higher stoichiometric composition of silicon than that of the first layer. In certain embodiments, the oxynitride charge trapping layer has a concentration of carbon selected to increase the number of traps therein. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
US08067283B2 Semiconductor device fabricating method
A semiconductor device fabricating method is described. The semiconductor device fabricating method includes providing a substrate. A first gate insulating layer and a second gate insulating layer are formed on the substrate, respectively. A gate layer is blanketly formed. A portion of the gate layer, the first gate insulating layer and the second gate insulating layer are removed to form a first gate, a remaining first gate insulating layer, a second gate and a remaining second gate insulating layer. The remaining first gate insulating layer not covered by the first gate has a first thickness, and the remaining second gate insulating layer not covered by the second gate has a second thickness, wherein a ratio between the first thickness and the second thickness is about 10 to 20. A pair of first spacers and a pair of second spacers are formed on sidewalls of the first gate and the second gate, respectively.
US08067275B2 Integrated circuit package system with package integration
An integrated circuit package system comprising: providing a base substrate; attaching a base integrated circuit die over the base substrate; forming a support over the base substrate near only one edge of the base substrate; and attaching a stack substrate over the support and the base integrated circuit die.
US08067273B2 Self locking and aligning clip structure for semiconductor die package
A semiconductor die package. The semiconductor die package includes a semiconductor die, and a lead comprising a flat surface. It also includes a clip structure including a (i) a contact portion, where the contact portion is coupled the semiconductor die, a clip aligner structure, where the clip aligner structure is cooperatively structured with the lead with the flat surface, and an intermediate portion coupling the contact portion and the clip aligner structure.
US08067272B2 Integrated circuit package system for package stacking and manufacturing method thereof
A stackable multi-chip package system is provided including forming an external interconnect having a base and a tip, connecting a first integrated circuit die and the base, stacking a second integrated circuit die over the first integrated circuit die in an active side to active side configuration, connecting the second integrated circuit die and the base, and molding the first integrated circuit die, the second integrated circuit die, and the external interconnect partially exposed.
US08067269B2 Method for fabricating at least one transistor
A method for fabricating transistors such as high electron mobility transistors, each transistor comprising a plurality of epitaxial layers on a common substrate, method comprising: (a) forming a plurality of source contacts on a first surface of the plurality of epitaxial layers; (b) forming at least one drain contact on the first surface; (c) forming at least one gate contact on the first surface; (d) forming at least one insulating layer over and between the gate contacts, source contacts and the drain contacts; (e) forming a conductive layer over at least a part of the at least one insulating layer for connecting the source contacts; and (f) forming at least one heat sink layer over the conductive layer.
US08067261B2 Solid-state imaging device and manufacturing method thereof
A solid-state imaging device includes a photoelectric conversion unit, a transistor, and an element separation region separating the photoelectric conversion unit and the transistor. The photoelectric conversion unit and the transistor constitute a pixel. The element separation region is formed of a semiconductor region of a conductivity type opposite to that of a source region and a drain region of the transistor. A part of a gate electrode of the transistor protrudes toward the element separation region side beyond an active region of the transistor. An insulating film having a thickness substantially the same as that of a gate insulating film of the gate electrode of the transistor is formed on the element separation region continuing from a part thereof under the gate electrode of the transistor to a part thereof continuing from the part under the gate electrode of the transistor.
US08067259B2 Method of producing high performance photovoltaic and thermoelectric nanostructured bulk and thin films
Embodiments of the invention provide methods of forming photovoltaic or thermoelectric materials, including photovoltaic or thermoelectric films. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of forming a photovoltaic material, the method comprising: depositing an inorganic capped nanoparticle solution onto a substrate; and heating the substrate.
US08067258B2 Protective thin films for use during fabrication of semiconductors, MEMS, and microstructures
A method of protecting a substrate during fabrication of semiconductor, MEMS, or biotechnology devices. The method includes application of a protective thin film which typically has a thickness ranging from about 3 Å to about 1,000 Å, wherein precursor materials used to deposit the protective thin film are organic-based precursors which include at least one fluorine-comprising functional group at one end of a carbon back bone and at least one functional bonding group at the opposite end of a carbon backbone, and wherein the carbon backbone ranges in length from 4 carbons through about 12 carbons. In many applications at least a portion of the protective thin film is removed during fabrication of the devices.
US08067251B2 Semiconductor device and a method of manufacturing the same
A method including forming an intermediate product, the intermediate product being configured to include a wiring substrate including a plurality of first electrodes, a plurality of second electrodes and a plurality of test electrodes, a first semiconductor chip mounted over the wiring substrate and including a plurality of first pads electrically connected respectively to the first electrodes, and a second semiconductor chip stacked over the first semiconductor chip and including a plurality of second pads electrically connected respectively to the second electrodes; encapsulating the first and second semiconductor chips; and performing electrical tests on the first and second semiconductor chips by use of the test electrodes, after the encapsulating of the first and second semiconductor chips.
US08067250B2 Ferroelectric memory device and method of manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a ferroelectric memory device includes: forming a hydrogen barrier film which covers a ferroelectric capacitor including a lower electrode, a ferroelectric film, and an upper electrode, wherein a thickness of an area of the hydrogen barrier film provided on the upper electrode is made greater than a thickness of an area of the hydrogen barrier film provided on a sidewall of the ferroelectric capacitor by forming the area of the hydrogen barrier film provided on the upper electrode in a plurality of layers.
US08067249B2 Method for functionalizing biosensor chips
A method is disclosed for functionalizing biosensors. The biosensors are based on semiconductor chips mounted on a finished processed wafer. They are provided with sensor fields placed thereupon, which are arranged in any array, and, to be precise, for carrying out a functionalization, for example, with organic molecules such as nucleic acids like DNA, RNA and PNA or with their derivatives, proteins, sugar molecules, or antibodies.
US08067246B2 Diagnostic testing process
A method and apparatus for use in a flow through assay process is disclosed. The method is characterised by a “pre-incubation step” in which the sample which is to be analyzed (typically for the presence of a particular protein), and a detection analyte (typically one or more antibodies bound to colloidal gold or a fluorescent tag) which is known to bind to the particular protein may bind together for a desired period of time. This pre-incubation step occurs before the mixture of sample and detection analyte come into contact with a capture analyte bound to a membrane. The provision of the pre-incubation step has the effect of both improving the sensitivity of the assay and reducing the volume of sample required for an assay. An apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed defining a pre-incubation chamber for receiving the sample and detection analyte having a base defined by a membrane and a second membrane to which a capture analyte is bound. In one version the pre-incubation chamber is supported above the second membrane in one position but can be pushed into contact with the membrane carrying the capture analyte thus o permitting fluid transfer from the incubation chamber through the capture membrane. In another version the membrane at the base of the incubation chamber is hydrophobic and its underside contacts the capture membrane and when a wetting agent is applied to the contents of the pre-incubation chamber fluid transfer occurs.
US08067242B2 Method for methylmalonic acid detemination based on alkylative extraction associated to liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry
The present invention relates to the determination of the presence of methylmalonic acid in biologic samples including the steps of methylmalonic extraction from the sample; derivatization of methylmalonic acid and use of mass spectrometry with negative mode atmospheric pressure chemical ionization to determine the presence of methymalonic acid throughthe formation of an ion of mass to charge ratio (m/z) 477. An additional objective of the present invention concerns diagnosis kits for determination of presence and quantification of methylmalonic acid based on the method mentioned before.
US08067241B2 Method and apparatus for antigen retrieval process
The invention provides a method for antigen retrieval of a formaldehyde-fixed tissue sample comprising incubating a formaldehyde-fixed tissue sample in a first antigen retrieval solution at a temperature of greater than 90° C., transferring the tissue sample to a second antigen retrieval solution, and incubating the tissue sample in the second antigen retrieval solution at a temperature of greater than 90° C. The invention also provides a kit and sample delivery device for carrying out the method.
US08067239B2 Reagents for recombinogenic engineering and use thereof
The present invention features homologous recombination methods and systems. The methods and systems promote highly efficient homologous recombination in cells (e.g., in prokaryotic cells). The methods and systems are useful, for example, in pharmaceutical drug development, vaccine development and cloning.
US08067238B2 Use of acid stable protease in animal feed
The present invention relates to acid-stable proteases homologous to those derived from strains of the genus Nocardiopsis, their use in animal feed, feed-additives and feed compositions containing such proteases, and methods for the treatment of vegetable proteins using such proteases.
US08067235B2 Optimized human T1R2 nucleic acid molecule
The present invention relates to a screening system for modulators of GPCRs. Further it relates to recombinant vector systems for the heterologous expression of heterodimeric g-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) in eukaryotic host cells. Preferably the functional expression of engineered GPCRs for the perception of sweet and L-amino acid taste or more preferably the use of these receptors for the identification of functional ligands is also encompassed.
US08067233B2 Pluripotent embryonic-like stem cells derived from corneal limbus, methods of isolation and uses thereof
The present disclosure describes mammalian pluripotent embryonic-like stem cells (ELSCs) isolated from corneal limbal tissue, a non-embryonic tissue. The ELSCs of the present disclosure are capable of proliferating in an in vitro culture, maintain the potential to differentiate into cells of endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm lineage in culture, and are capable of forming embryoid-like bodies when placed in suspension culture. Thus, these cells possess multi-lineage differentiation potential and self-renewing capability. ELSCs may be a promising therapeutic tool, and may provide new therapeutic alternatives for various diseases, conditions, and injuries.
US08067232B2 Antibody composition-producing cell with inactivated A-1,6-fusocyltransferase
The present invention relates to a cell for the production of an antibody molecule such as an antibody useful for various diseases having high antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxic activity, a fragment of the antibody and a fusion protein having the Fc region of the antibody or the like, a method for producing an antibody composition using the cell, the antibody composition and use thereof.
US08067229B2 UCP4
The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides having homology to certain human uncoupling proteins (“UCPs”) and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention, and methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.
US08067228B2 Nucleic acid compositions and their use against the hepatitic C virus
Peptide compositions are described. In particular, peptide compositions are described which include at least two peptides which are selected from among the following peptides: a peptide A having at least the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID N° 1, a peptide B having at least the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID N° 45, a peptide C having at least the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID N° 127, and a peptide D having at least the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID N° 174. The compositions can be used, in particular, in the preparation of active pharmaceutical compositions against the hepatitis C virus.
US08067227B2 Viral vectors and the use of the same for gene therapy
The invention relates to viral vectors comprising nucleic acid sequences coding for single chain interleukin-12 (single chain IL-12 or scIL12) and a costimulator protein, and to the use of vectors for gene therapy, especially for the treatment of tumors. The invention further relates to adenoviral vectors containing nucleic acid sequences having a sequence homology of at least 90% in relation to the sequence displayed in FIGS. 19 and 20 (IL-12), in FIG. 21 (4-1BB ligand) and in FIG. 22 (IL-2) and optionally also one of the sequences displayed in FIG. 23A (B7-1) or 23B (B7-2).
US08067226B2 Device and method for multiple analyte detection
The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more of a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.
US08067225B2 Microalga species and its application for animal, human consumption and in obtaining carotenoids
The invention relates to a novel microalga species and to the use thereof for animal and/or human consumption and in the production of carotenoids. A novel strain of Scenedesmus has been isolated at the Las Palmerillas experimental station, Cajamar, identified as microorganisms that had not been previously registered by the University of Gottinghem and deposited within the Culture Collection of Alagae and Protozoa (CCAP) as Scenedesmus almeriensis. The novel strain, which can be used for animal and/or human consumption, produces large quantities of carotenoids, particularly lutein and beta-carotene. Scenedesmus almeriensis grows adequately in a wide range of temperatures from 10° C. to 40° C. at a pH of between 7 and 9.5 and can tolerate high concentrations of copper, up to 1 mg/L. The microalgal strain is grown in a 4000 L photobioreactor, into which the culture is inserted mechanically, and produces less than 4 mg of lutein per gram of dry material. Said strain is suitable for the production of carotenoids that can be used in the treatment of ocular macular disorders.
US08067223B2 Thermacetogenium phaeum consortium for the production of materials with enhanced hydrogen content
An isolated microbial consortium is described that includes a first microbial consortium having Thermacetogenium phaeum to metabolize a complex hydrocarbon substrate into metabolic products comprising an acetate compound. The consortium also includes a second microbial consortium having a methanogen to convert the acetate compound into a final product that includes methane. Also, a method of increasing production of materials with enhanced hydrogen content. The method includes isolating Thermacetogenium phaeum from geologic formation water, culturing the isolated Thermacetogenium phaeum to increase the Thermacetogenium phaeum population, and introducing a consortium of the cultured Thermacetogenium phaeum, which may include spores of Thermacetogenium phaeum, into a hydrocarbon formation containing a complex hydrocarbon substrate.
US08067222B2 Pectate lyases, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them
The invention is directed to polypeptides having pectate lyase (pectinase) activity, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, and methods for making and using these polynucleotides and polypeptides. The polypeptides of the invention can be used as pectate lyases to catalyze the beta-elimination or hydrolysis of pectin and/or polygalacturonic acid, such as 1,4-linked alpha-D-galacturonic acid. The invention provides methods of treating fibers, fabrics or any pectate- or polygalacturonic acid-comprising material using one or more pectate lyases of the invention.
US08067219B2 Polynucleotide encoding an ATP binding cassette transporter 1 (ABC1) polypeptide
The invention features ABC1 nucleic acids and polypeptides for the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal cholesterol regulation. The invention also features methods for identifying compounds for modulating cholesterol levels in an animal (e.g., a human).
US08067218B2 Polypeptides having lipase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having lipase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods for producing and using the polypeptides.
US08067214B2 Compositions and methods for the biosynthesis of 1,4-butanediol and its precursors
The invention provides a non-naturally occurring microbial organism having 4-hydroxybutanoic acid (4-HB) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BDO) biosynthetic pathways. The pathways include exogenous nucleic acids encoding a) an α-ketoglutarate decarboxylase; b) a 4-hydroxybutanoate dehydrogenase; c) a 4-hydroxybutyryl-CoA:acetyl-CoA transferase or a butyrate kinase and a phosphotransbutyrylase; d) an aldehyde dehydrogenase, and e) an alcohol dehydrogenase, wherein the exogenous nucleic acids are expressed in sufficient amounts to produce 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BDO). Also provide is a method for the production of 1,4-BDO. The method includes culturing the non-naturally occurring microbial organism having 4-HB and 1,4-BDO biosynthetic pathways substantially anaerobic conditions for a sufficient period of time to produce 1,4-BDO.
US08067213B2 Production of thebaine and oripavine
There is disclosed an improved poppy straw of a stably reproducing Papaver somniferum for the extraction of thebaine and/or oripavine, the threshed straw having thebaine and oripavine constituting about 50% by weight or greater of the alkaloid combination consisting of morphine, codeine, thebaine and oripavine.
US08067205B2 Method of synthesizing cDNA
A method for synthesizing cDNA possessing a consecutive sequence starting with a nucleotide adjacent to a cap structure of mRNA, which comprises (i) a process for annealing a double-stranded DNA primer and an RNA mixture containing mRNA possessing a cap structure, (ii) a process for preparing a conjugate of an mRNA/cDNA heteroduplex and a double-stranded DNA primer by synthesizing the first-strand cDNA primed with the double-stranded DNA primer using reverse transcriptase, and (iii) a process for circularizing the conjugate of the mRNA/cDNA heteroduplex and the double-stranded DNA primer by joining the 3′ and 5′ ends of the DNA strand containing cDNA using ligase. This method enables us to efficiently synthesize a full-length cDNA possessing a consecutive sequence starting with a transcription-start-site nucleotide from a small amount of RNA by small processes.
US08067199B2 Anti-IL13 antibodies and uses thereof
The present invention relates to anti-IL13 antibodies that bind specifically and with high affinity to both glycosylated and non-glycosylated human IL13, does not bind mouse IL13, and neutralize human IL13 activity at an approximate molar ratio of 1:2 (MAb:IL13). The invention also relates to the use of these antibodies in the treatment of IL13-mediated diseases, such as allergic disease, including asthma, allergic asthma, non-allergic (intrinsic) asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, eczema, urticaria, food allergies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, ulcerative colitis, RSV infection, uveitis, scleroderma, and osteoporosis.
US08067198B2 Protein expression system
The present invention relates to a method of producing a target protein, which method comprises expressing said protein in a host cell which contains a nucleic acid molecule which encodes a chimeric protein, said chimeric protein comprising a signal peptide from a non-mammalian bulk-secreted protein and said target protein; nucleic acids, vectors, host cells and kits for carrying out the method are also described.
US08067195B2 Process for producing 7-methoxy-3-desacetylcefalotin
The invention relates to a method for preparing 7-methoxy-3-desacetylcefalotin by a hydrolysis process which takes place in water and is catalyzed by an enzyme obtained from Bacillus pumulis possessing acetyl hydrolasic activity.
US08067191B2 Method for detecting IL-16 activity and modulation of IL-16 activity based on rantes proxy protein levels
Methods for detecting IL-16 biological activity, detecting modulation of IL-16 biological activity, and diagnosing the presence of or susceptibility of a subject to an IL-16-related disorder involve measuring and comparing the levels of RANTES proxy produced by eukaryotic cells, such as CD4+ and CD9+ cell lines, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, HuT-78 cells, and/or THP-1 cells.
US08067190B2 Use of protein SATB2 as a marker for colorectal cancer
The invention provides new methods, means and uses in connection with detection, characterization and prognosis of colo-rectal cancer, via the identification of the SATB2 protein as a marker for this cancer type.
US08067187B2 Cross-β structure binding compounds
The invention relates to the field of biochemistry, biophysical chemistry, molecular biology, structural biology and medicine. More in particular, the invention relates to cross-β structure conformation. Even more particular, the invention relates to compounds capable of binding to a compound with cross-β structure conformation, i.e., cross-β structure binding compounds and uses thereof.
US08067183B2 Methods and compositions for development of drug screening procedures and diagnostic tools
This invention defines novel research methodology for use in (a) monitoring the ongoing status of the physiological expression of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and (b) screening candidate therapeutic drug agents for possible effectiveness. The presence of this neurodegenerative disease can be characterized in part by the expression in cultured fibroblasts obtained from the patient of one or more proteins which are not the product of a defective disease-inducing gene, but which are stress proteins, one or more other proteins modified by conditions of oxidative stress or other disease-related proteins. This candidate drug screening technology offers advantages in terms of (a) providing new research opportunities, (b) cost effectiveness, (c) ability to be used readily on a large scale, (d) ability to generate meaningful data in a comparatively short period of time, and (e) providing an opportunity to obtain information based on direct interaction of a candidate drug and a living tissue disease model.
US08067178B2 Gene expression markers for prediction of patient response to chemotherapy
The present invention relates to gene sets useful in assessing prognosis and/or predicting the response of cancer, e.g. colorectal cancer to chemotherapy. In addition, the invention relates to a clinically validated cancer test, e.g. colorectal test, for assessment of prognosis and/or prediction of patient response to chemotherapy, using expression analysis. The present invention accommodates the use of archived paraffin embedded biopsy material for assay of all markers in the relevant gene sets and therefore is compatible with the most widely available type of biopsy material.
US08067173B2 Method of profiling gene expression in a healthy subject
The present invention is directed to detection and measurement of gene transcripts in blood. Specifically provided is a RT-PCR analysis performed on a drop of blood for detecting, diagnosing and monitoring diseases using tissue-specific primers. The present invention also describes methods by which delineation of the sequence and/or quantitation of the expression levels of disease-associated genes allows for an immediate and accurate diagnostic/prognostic test for disease or to assess the effect of a particular treatment regimen.
US08067172B2 Device, kit and method for pulsing biological samples with an agent and stabilising the sample so pulsed
The present invention is related to a device, kit and method for pulsing a biological sample with a pulsing agent and subsequently stabilizing the biological sample so pulsed. The invention has application in the fields of medical diagnostics, particularly relating to immunity.
US08067169B2 Detection of macromolecular complexes on ultraflat surfaces with harmonic cantilevers
Method and apparatus which uses harmonic cantilevers, such as used in atomic force microscopy, to detect variations in the attractive and repulsive forces on a solid surface as a result of macromolecular binding, for example, hybridization of a single stranded DNA molecule attached to the surface with another DNA molecule. The complexed macromolecule is less flexible than an uncomplexed molecule. It will typically have more negative charge due to amino acids or DNA monomers. Both stiffness of the surface and the attractive capillary forces will change after binding and may be detected. The present methods and materials enable ultraflat surfaces for the macromolecule deposition, and may include the use of a gold-coated mica substrate and a self-assembling monolayer.
US08067167B2 Hybrid antibodies
Hybrid antibodies and/or hybrid antibody fragments and methods of making them are provided. In one embodiment the hybrid antibodies and/or hybrid antibody fragments contain heavy and/or light variable regions that contain two or more framework regions derived from at least two antibodies. In another embodiment, at least two of the framework regions are classified in the same germline gene family. In one embodiment, at least two framework regions are classified in the same germline gene family member. The hybrid antibodies or hybrid antibody fragments may contain human framework regions and nonhuman CDRs.
US08067165B2 Binary probe and clamp composition and methods for target hybridization detection
Binary probe and clamp compositions conduct methods for target hybridization detection. Where the probe is a substrate for exonuclease cleavage, the composition provides quantitation and detection of PCR products, by real-time and end-point measurements. Where the probe is an amplification primer, the composition provides an improved method for labelling and detection of PCR products. Probes and clamps may be labelled with fluorescent dyes, quenchers, hybridization-stabilizing moieties, chemiluminescent dyes, and affinity ligands. Clamps may be nucleic acid analogs, such as 2-aminoethylglycine PNA.
US08067164B2 Microarray system with improved sequence specificity
The invention provides a novel array method for nucleic acid sequence detection with improved specificity which allows for detection of genetic variation, from simple SNPs (where the variation occurs at a fixed position and is of limited allelic number) to more complex sequence variation patterns (such as with multigene families or multiple genetic strains of an organism where the sequence variation between the individual members is neither fixed nor consistent). The array is comprised of short, synthetic oligonucleotide probes attached to a solid surface which are hybridized to single-stranded targets. Single stranded targets can be produced using a method that employs primers modified on the 5′ end to prohibit degradation by a 5′-exonuclease that is introduced to degrade the unprotected strand. The invention further provides for printing buffers/solutions for the immobilization of oligonucleotide probes to an array surface. The invention also provides hybridization and wash buffers and conditions to maximize hybridization specificity and signal intensity, and reduce hybridization times.
US08067161B2 Dopaminergic neuron proliferative progenitor cell marker Nato3
The present invention is a probe, a primer, and an antibody, for detecting a dopaminergic neuron proliferative progenitor cell. According to the present invention, there is provided a polynucleotide probe and a polynucleotide primer for use in the detection or selection of a dopaminergic neuron proliferative progenitor cell, which can hybridize with a polynucleotide consisting of a nucleotide sequence of a Nato3 gene, or a complementary sequence thereto, and an antibody against a Nato3 protein, or a part thereof for use in the detection or selection of a dopaminergic neuron proliferative progenitor cell.
US08067158B2 Methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia
Compositions and methods relating to the diagnosis and treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, and bipolar disorders are disclosed. Also provided are methods for screening therapeutic agents having efficacy for the treatment of such disorders.
US08067157B2 Expression cloning in filamentous fungi
Methods are provided for isolation of DNA sequences encoding proteins with properties of interest by means of expression cloning in filamentous fungal host cells. The isolated DNA sequences are useful in processes for producing the proteins of interest.
US08067156B2 Method for generating replication defective viral vectors that are helper free
Sequences are provided that are capable of directing circular adeno-associated virus replication, useful in vectors for providing therapeutic agents to a subject in need thereof. The vectors of the invention are particularly useful in the treatment of acute medical conditions requiring rapid gene expression. Further provided are methods for producing packaged defective viral vectors.
US08067155B2 Receptor tyrosine kinase assays
Methods for detecting phosphorylation of receptor tyrosine kinases (“RTKs”) upon activation are provided. The method employs cells comprising two fusion products: (1) an RTK fused to a small fragment of β-galactosidase and (2) a phosphotyrosine binding peptide fused to the large fragment of β-galactosidase, where the 2 fragments weakly complex to form an active enzyme, and optionally a construct for a cytosolic RTK phosphorylating kinase, when the RTK does not autophosphoryate. To detect phosphorylation a β-galactosidase substrate is added to the cells, whereby product formation indicates the occurrence of phosphorylation.
US08067154B2 Method and device for rapid detection of microorganisms by changing the shape of micro-colonies in micro-channels
This invention describes a method of rapid detection of micro-colonies of microorganisms by changing their shape from a regular semi-sphere to a long and thin cylinder. Cells are trapped by filtration in long (diameter/length=1/10-1/100), cylindrical, parallel, micro-channels that are open from both sides, and attached to a filter from one side. A micro-channel plate houses a multiplicity of micro-channels (diameter of each channel=1-20 μm, and length 100-1000 μm). The micro-channel plate with cells trapped on the surface of the filter is attached to a nutrient media agar block. Cells produce micro-colonies of a long and thin shape according the shape of the micro-channel. The growth of microorganisms in the micro-channels permits a change in the number of cells to accomplish light absorbance. Fewer cells need a shorter time to reproduce. Thus detection and counting of cells can be accomplished in a rapid fashion.
US08067152B2 Liver cancer biomarkers
A method of detecting whether a subject is afflicted with or at increased risk of developing liver cancer is carried out by detecting cleavage of a marker in a sample such as a blood sample from the subject. Suitable markers include but are not limited to, calreticulin, calreticulin precursor, protein disulfide isomerase family A member 3 (PDIA3), and cleavage products thereof. The cleavage, or extent of cleavage, can be as compared to that found in a control sample.
US08067150B2 In-situ preservation (ISP) bridge method and solution for non-heart beating donors
A method for rapid, in-situ flushing of organs of a non-heart beating donor, and solutions for carrying out the flushing, are provided. The method initiates organ preservation, and the solutions are formulated to counteract basic mechanisms of ischemic cell injury, and to activate known biochemical survival pathways in the cell. Viability of the organ for transplant is thus maintained.
US08067149B2 Acellular dermal matrix and method of use thereof for grafting
A method for processing and preserving an acellular collagen-based tissue matrix for transplantation is disclosed. The method includes the steps of processing biological tissues with a stabilizing solution to reduce procurement damage, treatment with a processing solution to remove cells, treatment with a cryoprotectant solution followed by freezing, drying, storage and rehydration under conditions that preclude functionally significant damage and reconstitution with viable cells.
US08067147B2 Removable pellicle for immersion lithography
A method of irradiating to pattern a photosensitive layer such as a resist (L2) immersed in a fluid (L3), involves applying a removable transparent layer (L4, L5), projecting the radiation onto the resist through the immersion fluid and through the transparent layer, such that imperfections in the fluid are out of focus as projected on the surface, and subsequently removing the transparent layer. The transparent layer can help distance such imperfections from the focus of the radiation on the surface and so can reduce or eliminate shadowing. Hence the irradiation can be more complete, and defects reduced. It can be particularly effective for imperfections in the form of small bubbles or particles in the immersion fluid especially at the fluid/surface interface for example. The radiation can be for any purpose including inspection, processing, patterning and so on. The removal of the transparent layer can be combined with a step of developing the resist layer.
US08067145B2 Developing solution and method for producing lithography printing plate
A developing solution includes at least one of a compound represented by formula (I) and a compound represented by formula (II) and being at pH 2 to 10: wherein, in the formula (I) and (II), R1 to R10 each independently represent one of a hydrogen atom an alkyl group; “l” represents an integer of 1 to 3; and X1 and X2 each independently represent one of a sulfonate salt, a sulfate monoester salt, a carboxylate salt and a phosphate salt, provided that the total sum of the carbon atoms in R1 to R5 and the total sum of the carbon atoms in R6 to R10, respectively is 3 or more.
US08067140B2 Toner for developing electrostatic image and method of producing the same
A toner for developing electrostatic image which has a reduced residual amount of a decomposed product of a polymerization initiator remaining in the toner upon production (mainly an ether component) and an unreacted polymerizable monomer (mainly styrene), less odor produced upon fixing so as to avoid deteriorating surrounding environment, an excellent shelf stability at high temperature upon storing or anti-blocking property, and an excellent printing durability under both N/N environment and H/H environment upon printing is provided. A toner for developing electrostatic image comprising a colored resin particle which is obtained by polymerizing a polymerizable monomer composition containing a polymerizable monomer, a colorant and a charge control resin in an aqueous dispersion medium in the presence of a polymerization initiator, wherein the charge control resin is a quaternary ammonium base containing copolymer having a glass transition temperature “Tg” in the range from 70 to 100° C.; the polymerization initiator is an organic peroxide; and each residual amount of an ether component and styrene remaining in the toner for developing electrostatic image is respectively less than 500 ppm and less than 50 ppm.
US08067136B2 Charge control agent, toner, image forming method, and image forming apparatus
To provide: a charge control agent having negative chargeability, which contributes to environmental conservation and the like to an increased degree, has high performance (high charge amount, quick rise-up of charge, excellent stability with time, and high environmental stability), and has improved dispersibility; a toner for developing an electrostatic charge image containing the charge control agent; and an image forming method and an image forming apparatus each using the toner for developing an electrostatic charge image. A charge control agent for controlling a charged state of powder, characterized by including one or more units each represented by the following chemical formula (1) in a molecule.
US08067135B2 Metrology systems and methods for lithography processes
Metrology systems and methods for lithography processes are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes providing a mask having a plurality of corner rounding test patterns formed thereon. A first semiconductor device is provided, and a layer of photosensitive material of the first semiconductor device is patterned with a plurality of corner rounding test features using the mask and a lithography process. An amount of corner rounding of the lithography process is measured by analyzing the plurality of corner rounding test features relative to other of the plurality of corner rounding test features formed on the layer of photosensitive material of the semiconductor device. The lithography process or the mask is altered in response to the amount of corner rounding measured, and a second semiconductor device is provided. The second semiconductor device is affected using the altered lithography process or the altered mask.
US08067133B2 Phase shift mask with two-phase clear feature
Systems and methods are provided for use in photolithography. In one embodiment, a reticle is provided that comprises a phase shift and transmission control layer, wherein a gap in the phase shift and transmission control layer defines a line. Adjacent to the phase shift and transmission control layer is an optically transparent material, comprising a groove located within the line, wherein the groove comprises a region of reduced thickness in the optically transparent material. The region of reduced thickness serves to shift the phase of light passing through the groove, as compared to light passing through other regions of the optically transparent material. Thus, the reticle has a clear feature comprising light of two different phases.
US08067131B2 Contact device and fuel cell stack or fuel cell block comprising one such contact device
The invention relates to a contact device which is arranged in a terminal compartment of a fuel cell stack and is used to electrically contact the fuel cell stack. According to the invention, the surface of said contact device is at least partially provided with a hydrophobic surface layer, facilitating the removal of water, e.g., condensation water, from the terminal compartment and thus from the fuel cell stack.
US08067125B2 Fuel cell system and its operation stop method
A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell which has a catalyst layer therein and which receives supply of a reactive gas to generate power, and a refrigerant system which supplies a refrigerant to the fuel cell to control its temperature. A method for stopping an operation of the system is also provided. When operated in a low-temperature environment, the system cannot be restarted due to freezing in the fuel cell. When the temperature of the fuel cell during the next system start is a predetermined temperature or less, the supply of the refrigerant is stopped during the system stop, and the supply of the refrigerant is resumed after elapse of a predetermined time.
US08067121B2 Fuel cell system which can be used in a mobile manner with an adsorption accumulator
A fuel cell system which can be used in a mobile manner with a fuel cell unit (1) in order to produce electric energy, and an adsorption accumulator (3) which is associated with a fuel cell unit (1) are provided. The adsorption accumulator (3) is used to release heat and interacts in a thermal manner with a heat exchanger (2) which is arranged downstream from the fuel cell unit (1) in a cooling circuit (4, 5) associated with the fuel cell unit. A method for operating said type of fuel cell system, especially during a cold start is provided.
US08067120B2 Non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
The non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery of the present invention includes a positive electrode containing a lithium-containing transition metal oxide as a positive electrode active material, a negative electrode, a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The non-aqueous electrolyte includes a non-aqueous solvent and a solute dissolved therein, and the non-aqueous solvent includes a solvent having an electron-withdrawing substituent. The solvent having an electron-withdrawing substituent includes at least one selected from the group consisting of a sulfonic solvent, a nitrile solvent, a ketonic solvent, a fluorine-containing solvent, a chlorine-containing solvent and a carboxylic acid ester solvent. The separator includes a material containing an electron-withdrawing substituent or an atom having an unshared electron pair.
US08067118B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery and method of manufacturing the same
A mixed positive electrode active material is used. The mixed positive electrode active material is obtained by mixing a layered oxide whose initial charge-discharge efficiency when lithium metal is used for a counter electrode is less than 100% (hereinafter referred to as a first layered oxide) and a layered oxide whose initial charge-discharge efficiency is 100% or more (hereinafter referred to as a second layered oxide). Examples of the first layered oxide include Li1+aMnxCoyNizO2. A sodium oxide such as LiANaBMnXCoYNiZO2 other than a layered compound from which lithium is previously extracted by acid treatment or the like can be used as the second layered oxide whose initial charge-discharge efficiency is 100% or more. A layered oxide obtained by replacing (ion exchange) sodium in the foregoing LiANaBMnXCoYNiZO2 with lithium can be also used as the second layered oxide.
US08067116B2 Highly reversible lithium intercalating electrode active material, preparation method thereof, electrode and secondary battery comprising the same
Disclosed are an electrode active material, having a composition of SnPx (0.9≦x≦0.98), an electrode comprising the same, and a lithium secondary battery comprising the electrode. Also disclosed is a method for preparing an electrode active material having a composition of SnPx (0.9≦x≦0.98), the method comprising the steps of: preparing a mixed solution of a Sn precursor, trioctyl phosphine (TOP) and trioctyl phosphine oxide (TOPO); and heating the solution. The application of the teardrop-shaped single-crystal SnP0-94 particles as an anode active material for lithium secondary batteries can provide an anode having very excellent cycling properties because the active material has a reversible capacity, which is about two times as large as that of a carbon anode, along with a very low irreversible capacity, and it is structurally very stable against Li ion intercalation/deintercalation in a charge/discharge process, indicating little or no change in the volume thereof.
US08067115B2 Non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery comprising at least a negative electrode having a current collector provided thereon with convex portions and columnar bodies formed on the convex portions, each of the columnar bodies comprising n stages (where n≧2) of overlaid columnar body portions alternately tilted to different orientations along a longitudinal direction of the current collector, a positive electrode having a positive electrode current collector provided on both surfaces thereof with a positive electrode mixture layer containing a positive electrode active material capable of inserting and extracting lithium ions reversibly, and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode in a confronting manner, wherein tip portions of the columnar body portions at the uppermost stage of the columnar bodies on the negative electrode are tilted toward a trailing end of winding direction.
US08067112B2 Stacked lithium secondary battery and its fabrication utilizing a folded configuration
There is provided a stacked lithium secondary battery in which a plurality of cathode plates and a plurality of anode plates are alternatively facing each other, and its fabrication method. The method comprises adhering a plurality of anode plates to a portion of one surface of a separator onto which the anode plates are neighboring one another, adhering a plurality of cathode plates to a portion of the other surface of the separator onto which the cathode plates are neighboring one another, covering either the cathode or anode plates with the separator by folding the portion to which no electrode plate is adhered, successively folding the separator in a fixed one-direction along folding lines formed between the electrode plates to obtain a stacked body, and housing the obtained stacked body within a pouch, followed by injection of an electrolyte solution and packaging. The method simplifies the folding process by a fixed one-directional folding rather than a zig-zag folding, and reduces the scale of a facility required for the adhesion process by minimizing the length occupied by the electrode plates. Further, the separator can be tightly fastened such that the charge/discharge characteristics and cycle life of the battery can be enhanced, compared to a zig-zag folding.
US08067107B2 System and method for processing an end-of-life or reduced performance energy storage and/or conversion device using a supercritical fluid
A method of refurbishing a lithium-containing energy storage and/or conversion device is disclosed, wherein the energy storage and/or conversion device includes electrodes and an electrolyte, and wherein the method includes substantially removing the electrolyte from the energy storage and/or conversion device, substantially removing waste products from surfaces of the electrodes, and adding a new quantity of electrolyte to the energy storage and/or conversion device.
US08067106B2 Fuel cell
Disclosed is a fuel cell including a fuel cell stack; a stack case which contains the fuel cell stack; and a blocking device including connecting portions which electrically connect, to output terminal portions of the fuel cell stack, output cables to transmit the output of the fuel cell stack to a device provided outside the stack case, the blocking device being capable of blocking the mutual connection performed by the mechanical operation of the connecting portions from the outside of the stack case. Moreover, at least a portion of the blocking device in which the output cables are electrically connected to the connecting portions is arranged outside the stack case.
US08067105B2 Biaxially oriented film
A thin biaxially oriented film excellent in dimensional stability against humidity change, as well as a magnetic recording medium and a film capacitor using the same. The present invention provides a laminated biaxially oriented film comprising: at least one layer comprising an aromatic polyester (a); and at least one layer of a polyolefin (b) having a melting point of from 230 to 280° C.; wherein the ratio of the polyolefin (b) is from 2 to 60% based on the entire weight of the film, and the film thickness is from 1 to 10 μm.
US08067104B2 Manufacturing method of magnetic recording medium, the magnetic recording medium, and magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus
A magnetic recording medium includes a substrate; and a recording film formed on the substrate and including a main magnetic film, the main magnetic film where a recording area and a guard area are formed by local ion doping, the guard area having saturation magnetization smaller than saturation magnetization of the recording area. A primary layer is provided at a substrate side of the main magnetic film. A main ingredient of the primary layer is at least one kind of atom selected from a group consisting of Cr, B, Mo, Al, Si, and C.
US08067100B2 Complexes with tridentate ligands
The present invention relates to organic light emitting devices (OLEDs), and more specifically to phosphorescent organic materials used in such devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to emissive phosphorescent material which comprise at least one tridentate ligand bound to a metal center, wherein at least one of the bonds to the tridentate ligand is a carbon-metal bond.
US08067095B1 Award or trophy apparatus, method of making, and method of offering an award or trophy for sale wherein dynamic movement of a game piece and or body part is indicated
A trophy or award which includes a statue or figurine shown in a position playing a sporting event with a game piece, and includes a member indicating dynamic movement of the game piece and/or a body part of the statue or figurine.
US08067093B2 Curing agents for epoxy-functional compounds
The present invention relates to compounds suitable to use as curing agents for epoxy systems which can be obtained by reacting an amine-functional compound with an α-β unsaturated acid and/or ester and a mono-functional epoxy compound. The invention further relates to coating compositions comprising these curing agents.
US08067090B2 Color effect pigment with a layer made of discrete metal particles, method for the production thereof and its use
The invention relates to a platelike color effect pigment having the following structure: a) a metallic reflective core; b) a spacer layer made of a dielectric material, and; c) an, all in all, semitransparent absorber layer comprising, in essence, discrete metal particles that have an average diameter of 1 to 100 nm and optionally at least one other protective layer.
US08067085B2 Gas barrier film, and display device comprising the same
Disclosed is a gas barrier film having, on one surface of a substrate film, a gas-barrier layer comprising at least one organic region and at least one inorganic region, and having, as a barrier property-having layer, only a layer comprising a barrier property-having resin as the main ingredient of the layer on the other surface of the substrate film. The gas barrier film has can effectively prevent moisture penetration through the other surface thereof not having the gas-barrier layer.
US08067071B2 Composite self-cohered web materials
The present invention is directed to implantable bioabsorbable non-woven self-cohered web materials having a high degree of porosity. The web materials are very supple and soft, while exhibiting proportionally increased mechanical strength in one or more directions. The web materials often possess a high degree of loft. The web materials can be formed into a variety of shapes and forms suitable for use as implantable medical devices or components thereof.
US08067070B2 PICVD coating for plastic containers
The invention relates to a composite material (1), to containers made therefrom and to a method for producing the composite material (1), which comprises a substrate (2) and a coating (3) on the substrate (2), wherein the coating (3) provides at least a first region (31) facing the substrate (2) and at least a second region (32) facing away the substrate (2), and wherein the first region (31) comprises a barrier layer (4) and the second region (32) a passivation layer (5).
US08067057B2 Dispenser for liquid crystal display panel and method for controlling gap between substrate and nozzle using the same
A dispenser for a liquid crystal display panel includes a syringe having a nozzle provided at an end thereof, a body in which the syringe is mounted, a vertical driving stepping motor for moving the body in a vertical direction, a first sensor for detecting whether the nozzle of the syringe is in contact with a substrate, a second sensor for detecting a gap distance between the nozzle and the substrate, and a main unit for controlling the vertical driving stepping motor in response to an output from the second sensor to obtain a desired gap distance between the nozzle and the substrate.
US08067052B2 Nutritional composition and a container for the convenient transport and storage of the nutritional composition
The present invention relates to a combination of a hermetically sealed, substantially air-tight container and a nutritional composition. The container of the present invention is adapted for the convenient transport, and storage of a single daily oral dose of a nutritional composition containing a fatty acid, for example, diacyl glycerol, an octadecatrienoic acid, an octadecadienoic acid, linolenic acid, linoleic acid, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) or a combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to the use of the c9, t11 and t10, c12 isomers of CLA in a nutritional composition. The wide range of health benefits associated with consumption of these CLA fatty acids is well known. Furthermore, the invention relates to a container that substantially prevents CLA lipid oxidation caused by exposure to air.
US08067050B2 Process for the production of aromatic vinegar
An aromatic vinegar is produced from wine or fruit vinegar and cooked or concentrated musts, by freeze concentrating the vinegar in a freeze concentration system (1) and mixing it together with concentrated must to obtain an aromatic vinegar with an acidity of at least 6 g/100 ml and high sugar content without the addition of additives.
US08067049B2 Method of storing roasted coffee beans
Roasted coffee beans are cooled and stored to a temperature of 0° C. or below before elapse of forty eight hours of holding time at room temperature or below after roasting.
US08067044B2 Cosmetic compositions containing an extract of leaves of the Castanea sativa plant and cosmetic treatments
The present invention is concerned with a composition comprising an extract of the leaves of the Castanea sativa plant. It is furthermore directed to the use of the extract for the manufacture of a cosmetic composition and with the use of this extract for the cosmetic treatment of the human body.
US08067041B2 Method for treatment of constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome
The present invention provides methods for treating constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome comprising administering to a patient in need thereof, a polymeric proanthocyanidin composition from a Croton species or Calophyllum species in an amount sufficient to treat constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (c-IBS). Treatment of c-IBS includes the treatment of the constipation component of c-IBS as well as the pain and abdominal discomfort associated with c-IBS. In one embodiment, the polymeric proanthocyanidin compound is crofelemer. The present invention in an alternative embodiment also provides methods for treating alternating constipation-predominant/diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.
US08067039B2 Extract of plant Dendrobii caulis and preparing process thereof
An extract of plant Dendrobii Caulis and preparing process thereof are provided. A physiologically active extract of a plant Dendrobii Caulis and the method thereof are provided in the present invention. The extract is obtained by an extraction of the plant or parts thereof with a water miscible organic solvent or a mixture thereof with water.
US08067035B2 Chlorite formulations, and methods of preparation and use thereof
Described herein are chlorite formulations having a pH between about 7 and about 8.5, wherein the chlorite formulations are substantially free of deleterious non-chlorite components. Described herein are chlorite formulations, including pharmaceutical formulations, which are formulated for systemic, parenteral, or intravenous administration. Described herein are methods of preparing and methods of using the chlorite formulations described herein.
US08067028B2 Drug delivery device
Drug delivery devices are provided herein including crosslinked polymeric compositions. The devices may, in embodiments, possess at least two drug release profiles, in embodiments at least three drug release profiles.
US08067024B2 Medical devices to prevent or inhibit restenosis
Implantable medical devices having anti-restenotic coatings are disclosed. Specifically, implantable medical devices having coatings of certain anti-inflammatory agents, are disclosed. The anti-inflammatory agents are selected from the group consisting of Sanglifehrin A, Sanglifehrin B, Sanglifehrin C, Sanglifehrin D, and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof. The anti-restenotic medical devices include stents, catheters, micro-particles, probes and vascular grafts. Intravascular stents are preferred medical devices. The medical devices can be coated using any method known in the art including compounding the anti-inflammatory agent with a biocompatible polymer prior to applying the coating. Moreover, medical devices composed entirely of biocompatible polymer-anti-inflammatory agent blends are disclosed. Additionally, medical devices having a coating comprising at least one anti-inflammatory agent in combination with at least one additional therapeutic agent are also disclosed. Furthermore, related methods of using and making the anti-restenotic implantable devices are also disclosed.
US08067019B2 Wax treated burnable dispensing substrates
Disclosed herein are burnable air treatment chemical dispensing substrates, such as mosquito coils, in which wax is incorporated. In one form the wax portion is a separate coating layer in which the air treatment chemical is also placed. This permits the underlying base to be dried without loss of air treatment chemical. Methods for forming such coils are also disclosed.
US08067018B2 Microencapsulated pyrethrin
A microcapsule comprising a core material containing pyrethrin and a capsule shell wall which surrounds said core material, said shell wall material comprises gelatin and at least one polysaccharide selected from the group consisting of gum arabic and pectin is effective for controlling insects.
US08067017B2 Preservation of bioactive materials by freeze dried foam
This invention provides methods and compositions to preserve bioactive materials in a dried foam matrix. Methods provide non-boiling foam generation and penetration of preservative agents at temperatures near the phase transition temperature of the membranes.
US08067004B2 Surface antigen
The invention provides a novel surface polypeptide from Neisseria meningitidis as well as nucleic acid and nucleic acid sequence homologues encoding this protein. Pharmaceutical compositions containing the polypeptide and nucleic acids of the invention are also disclosed as well as methods useful in the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of N. meningitidis infection.
US08066995B2 Anti-myostatin antibodies
Anti-myostatin antibodies are identified that are characterized as having high affinity and may be chimeric, humanized or fully human antibodies, immunoconjugates of the antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof. The antibodies of the invention are useful for increasing muscle mass, increasing bond density, or for the treatment of various disorders in mammalian and avian species, X17251.
US08066991B2 Enzyme inhibitors of PAI-1
The invention provides a method for the treatment of a subject suffering from a cardiovascular disease using a therapeutically effective amount of at least one enzyme that is capable of inhibiting PAI-1 activity. The invention also provides a method of decreasing the risk of the occurrence of a cardiovascular disease in a subject who presents at least one risk factor that is associated with a cardiovascular disease, by administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of at least one enzyme that is capable of inhibiting PAI-1 activity. Additionally, the invention provides a method of inhibiting PAI-1 activity in a subject in need thereof, where the subject is administered an enzyme selected from a protease or peptidase.
US08066990B2 Lysin protein having broad antibacterial activity specific to bacteria
The present invention relates to a lysin protein originated from bacteriophage, more precisely a lysin protein comprising the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ. ID. NO: 2 which has no harm to human and animals comprising eukaryotic cells owing to its specificity to bacteria and has broad antibacterial activity, and a pharmaceutical composition for the prevention and treatment of infectious disease caused by bacteria comprising the said lysin protein as an active ingredient.
US08066988B1 In-hive trap and lure for control of the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida
A Small Hive Beetle trap, which replaces the bottom board of beehives, includes a frame having three walls and a top surface, a trap plate, an entry means, and a trapping means. The trapping means provides a dark environment attractive to small hive beetles and contains a small hive beetle attractant made from pollen dough and inoculated with yeast that produces small hive beetle attracting volatiles. The yeast is a biologically pure strain of yeast producing hive beetle attracting volatiles designated yeast spp. NRRL Y-30722.
US08066987B2 Bacterial delivery of biologically active polypeptides
The present invention relates to methods for the delivery of biologically active polypeptides to a subject by colonizing non-pathogenic Gram negative bacteria. Also provided by this invention are methods of treating or preventing diseases by administering colonizing Gram negative bacteria that express one or more biologically active polypeptides. The colonizing non-pathogenic Gram negative bacteria may be administered in pharmaceutical formulations.
US08066983B2 Attenuated poliovirus
A novel and stable attenuated poliovirus, which replicates in neuroblastoma cells, is produced by engineering an indigenous replication element (cre), into the 5′ non-translated genomic region and inactivating the native cre element located in the coding region of 2C (mono-crePV). The stably attenuated poliovirus replicates in a neuroblastoma model (Neuro-2aCD155 tumors) expressing CD155, the poliovirus receptor, and is effective for oncolytic treatment and cure of solid tumors, such as neuroblastoma.
US08066982B2 Irreversibly-inactivated pepsinogen fragment and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same for detecting, preventing and treating HIV
An isolated antiviral peptide is characterized by the amino acid sequence GDEPLENYLDTEYF and a significant in vitro binding affinity for HIV-1 gp 120 and gp 41 and human CD4 cells. The peptide exhibits anti-retroviral activity in vivo, particularly anti-HIV-1 activity.
US08066981B2 Compositions and methods related to toll-like receptor-3
The invention relates to compositions and methods related to Toll-like receptor (TLR) polypeptides. In some embodiments, the invention relates to managing TLR3 related diseases. In further embodiments, the invention relates to methods of preventing and treating inflammation. In some embodiments, the invention relates to antagonists of TLR3, to amino acid sequences that act as dominant negative molecules, and to nucleic acid sequences that encode said amino acid sequences. In additional embodiments, the invention relates to the manipulation of biological materials to evaluate TLR3 activity.
US08066979B1 Attractants and repellents for the tropical root weevil Diaprepes Abbreviatus
A composition for attracting female tropical root weevils (and/or repelling male tropical root weevils), containing (±)-linalool, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, and carvacrol, and optionally a carrier or carrier material known in the art. A method for attracting female tropical root weevils to an object or area, involving treating the object or area with a composition containing a female tropical root weevil attracting effective amount of (±)-linalool, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, and carvacrol, and optionally a carrier or carrier material. A method for repelling male tropical root weevils from an object or area, involving treating the object or area with a composition containing a male tropical root weevil repelling effective amount of (±)-linalool, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, and carvacrol, and optionally a carrier or carrier material.
US08066976B2 Foaming compositions for hair care
The invention concerns a foaming composition for washing and treating hair and/or scalp essentially characterised in that it contains in an aqueous medium: at least an active principle selected among corticoids and retinoids; at least an anionic surfactant; at least an amphoteric surfactant; and a pro-penetrating agent.
US08066973B2 Nanoparticulate probe for in vivo monitoring of tissue oxygenation
A new class of micro- and nano- particulate paramagnetic spin probes useful for magnetic resonance imaging techniques, including electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The probes are lithium phthalocyanine derivative compounds. Also provided are suspensions and emulsions comprising lithium phthalocyanine derivative probes. Also provided are noninvasive methods for measuring noninvasive methods of measuring oxygen concentration, oxygen partial pressure, oxygen metabolism, and nitric oxide concentration in a specific tissue, organ, or cell in vivo or in vitro.
US08066965B2 Process for recycling carbon dioxide emissions from power plants into carbonated species
A process is disclosed for recycling carbon dioxide emissions from a fossil-fuel power plant into useful carbonated species The process primarily comprises the steps of: a) burning the fossil fuel, thereby generating heat and a hot exhaust gas containing CO2; and b) converting the heat into energy. The process is characterized in that it further comprises the steps of: c) cooling the exhaust gas; and d) biologically transforming the CO2 contained in the cooled exhaust gas into carbonated species, thereby obtaining a low CO2 exhaust gas and producing useful carbonated species. The low CO2 exhaust gas obtained in step d) can be released in the atmosphere without increasing the problem of greenhouse effect.
US08066958B2 Device and kit for calibrating bodily fluid sampling devices
A control solution packet for calibrating a bodily fluid sampling device includes a container, a control solution pressurized within the container, and a membrane for covering and sealing the container. The control solution can be pressurized before or during calibration so as to ensure the appropriate amount of control solution is delivered to the bodily fluid sampling device. The control solution is manufactured to have a viscosity that controls delivery of the control solution to the device. The membrane is permeable by a piercing device of the bodily fluid sampling device and seals around the piercing device during calibration. In another aspect, the container is in the form of a capsule or dosing attachment that contains the control solution along with a sponge-like material.
US08066955B2 Processing apparatus fabrication
A processing apparatus that is formed from a plurality of metal layers that are stacked and aligned together and then connected together to form one or more portions of the processing apparatus.
US08066953B2 Apparatus and method for hydrolyzing biological material
Apparatus and method for hydrolyzing biological material for safe disposal thereof without the necessity of incineration or use of disinfectants are described. An alkaline solution having a concentration and an amount effective for hydrolyzing the biological material is brought into contact therewith by means of rotating paddles which both pound the biological material into small pieces and thoroughly mix the alkaline solution with the material under pressure and at elevated temperature. Following the hydrolysis of the biological material, a chosen portion of the water is removed from the alkaline solution and from the liquefied biological material, such that the resulting product solidifies when cooled. The present safe disposal of the biological material does not require incineration thereof, the addition of disinfectants thereto, or the discharge of liquid effluent containing processed biological material into the sewage system.
US08066946B2 Hydrogen storage, distribution, and recovery system
Cassette based systems and methods of hydrogen storage, distribution, and recovery are taught. A cassette or other container may contain a hydrogen storage or storing material. Information may be stored in the material and subsequently read or accessed. A probe may be used to interrogate the material. The hydrogen content or other characteristics of the material may be determined based on the interrogation. A hydrogen dispensing unit may contain a depleted cassette acceptor to accept depleted cassettes and a charged cassette dispenser to dispense charged cassettes. The dispensing unit may be implemented in a hydrogen retail store or as a standalone unit. The retail store or the unit may connect to a hydrogen network and implement various business methods, as taught herein.
US08066944B2 Chemical sensing device
This invention relates to a chemical sensing device for detecting an analyte. The device comprises a light source; at least one luminescent reagent which is capable of luminescing when irradiated by the light source wherein the luminescence of the luminescent reagent is modifiable by the analyte thereby changing the generation of heat, which change in heat generation is proportional to the concentration of the analyte, a transducer having a pyroelectric or piezoelectric element and electrodes which is capable of transducing the change in heat to an electrical signal, and a detector which is capable of converting the electrical signal into an indication of the concentration of the analyte. The invention also relates to a method for detecting an analyte.
US08066943B2 Clinical analyzer having a variable cycle time and throughput
A clinical analyzer having the capability to operate at both a higher and lower throughput, depending upon the assay load demand experienced by the hospital or laboratory, so that analyzer throughput most closely matches assay demand.
US08066939B2 Descenting methods
The present invention, in certain aspects, discloses systems and methods for treating a human being and/or items with descenting material, the systems, in certain aspects, including a generator for producing descenting material, and, in certain aspects at least one direction apparatus in communication with the generator for receiving produced descenting material from the generator and for directing said descenting material in a desired direction.
US08066938B2 Ni-Cr-Co alloy for advanced gas turbine engines
A wrought age-hardenable nickel-chromium-cobalt based alloy suitable for use in high temperature gas turbine transition ducts possessing a combination of three specific key properties, namely resistance to strain age cracking, good thermal stability, and good creep-rupture strength contains in weight percent 17 to 22 chromium, 8 to 15 cobalt, 4.0 to 9.1 molybdenum, up to 7 tungsten, 1.39 to 1.65 aluminum, 1.50 to 2.30 titanium, up to 0.80 niobium, 0.01 to 0.2 carbon, up to 0.01 boron, up to 3 iron, up to 1.5 tantalum and less than 0.02 zirconium, with a balance of nickel and impurities. Certain alloying elements must be present in amounts according to two equations here disclosed.
US08066937B2 Method for making high thermal conductivity metal matrix composite
Discontinuous diamond particulate containing metal matrix composites of high thermal conductivity and methods for producing these composites are provided. The manufacturing method includes producing a thin reaction formed and diffusion bonded functionally graded interactive SiC surface layer on diamond particles. The interactive surface converted SiC coated diamond particles are then disposed into a mold and between the particles and permitted to rapidly solidify under pressure. The surface conversion interactive SiC coating on the diamond particles achieves minimal interface thermal resistance with the metal matrix which translates into good mechanical strength and stiffness of the composites and facilitates near theoretical thermal conductivity levels to be attained in the composite. Secondary working of the diamond metal composite can be performed for producing thin sheet product.
US08066929B2 Method and device for placing thin material layers onto a relief mould
The present invention relates to a method and a device for placing at least one material layer onto a relief mold for producing a composite material. Thereby, an elastically-reversibly deformable body with a surface relief that is designed to correspond to the relief mold is pressed against the material layer, as a result of which the surface of said body is deformed, and the material layer can be picked up. As a result of its elastically-reversible characteristics the body subsequently deforms back to its initial state so that the material layer can easily be placed onto the relief mold.
US08066927B2 Method for making a thermoplastic composite part by molding
The invention relates to a method for making a thermoplastic composite part by molding. The method includes making several portions of the part according to a molding method, the molding method including placing, in a mold, a composite material containing fibers embedded in a thermoplastic matrix, while arranging the material so that the fibers contained therein are oriented along one or more preferred directions; submitting the mold to particular pressure and temperature conditions, knowing that for each of the different portions the fibers may be of different natures and dimensions, and may be oriented in different directions, while the thermoplastic matrix and that of the material used for making the first portion are identical or compatible; and assembling the different portions obtained, placing them in a mold, and submitting the latter to particular pressure and temperature conditions.
US08066924B2 Method of manufacturing an alloyed film and apparatus for the method
A method and apparatus for carrying out the method are for forming a sheet or film of thermoplastic polymer alloy by extruding an intimate blend of incompatible polymer materials, such as polypropylene dispersed in LLDPF, through an extruding die and stretching after extrusion. In the die upstream from the exit is a grid chamber comprising one or more grids, the grid or grids having at least 4 (in the longitudinal sections perpendicular to the main surfaces of the flow) closely spaced lamellae (303) having walls extending several millimeters in the direction of the flow which are interconnected (306) at intervals such that viewed in sections perpendicular to the direction of flow they form a network, the intervals being essentially longer than the distance between each pair of lamellae and between the lamellae apertures of a size selected to reduce the average size of the dispersed phase of P1 or P2 in the blend, the grid or grids being located at a position in the chamber where the gap is wider than the said exit gap, the grip chamber further comprising a gap reduction portion between the screen and the die exit wherein the gap through which the blend flows is reduced at least part way to the gap of the die exit. There may be two grids with parallel lamellae arranged so that the lamellae of the downstream grid are located mid-way between the lamellae of the upstream grid.
US08066922B2 Method and device for the production of a plastic profile
In the production of elongate plastic profiles (10), which usually takes place by the pultrusion process, the cured plastic profile (10) emerging from a die (14) is pulled through the stationary die (14) by a take-off device. This process only makes it possible to produce straight plastic profiles (10). The invention envisages producing curved plastic profiles (10) by using a die (14) corresponding to the curvature of the plastic profile (10). For moving the cured part of the plastic profile (10) out of the die (14), it is provided that the die (14) is moved back step by step in relation to the stationary plastic profile (10) counter to the direction of production (19). In order that the plastic profile (10) remains stationary in relation to the die (14) as this takes place, it is securely held outside the die (14) by a holding means (20) during the moving back of the die (14).
US08066919B2 Spherical rubber chemicals and the method for preparing the same
The present invention provides spherical rubber chemicals and the method for preparing the same. The spherical rubber chemicals of the present invention include spherical antioxidants, spherical vulcanization agents, spherical processing aids, spherical reinforcing agents, or spherical adhesive agents. With the spherical rubber chemicals of the present invention, the shortcomings of powdery or semi-spherical rubber chemicals are overcome, including eliminating the dust pollution during granulation procedure and avoiding the raw material loss and the environmental pollution, while solving the quality problem of lower melting point of product caused by the presence of fine powder crystal. Furthermore, the resultant rubber chemicals has an improved smoothness of surface, which is helpful to improve the flowing and mixing behaviors of the rubber chemicals in mixing or open milling process with rubbers.
US08066914B2 7-ethynyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane and related methods
7-ethynyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane and related methods are presented. Manufacturing 7-ethynyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane includes the steps of: (1) reducing alkyl 2,4,9-trithiaadamantane-7-carboxylate to produce 7-hydroxymethyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane; (2) oxidizing 7-hydroxymethyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane to produces 7-carbonyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane; and (3) reacting 7-carbonyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane with Ohira-Bestmann reagent to produces 7-ethynyl-2,4,9-trithiaadamantane. Molecular wires having 2,4,9-trithiaadamantane surface anchors are also disclosed.
US08066909B2 Light emitting device
A light emitting device is disclosed. The light emitting device may include a light emitting diode (LED) for emitting light and a phosphor adjacent to the LED. The phosphor may be excitable by light emitted by the LED and may include a first compound having a host lattice comprising first ions and oxygen. In one embodiment, the host lattice may include silicon, the copper ions may be divalent copper ions and the first compound may have an Olivin crystal structure, a β-K2SO4 crystal structure, a trigonal Glaserite (K3Na(SO4)2) or monoclinic Merwinite crystal structure, a tetragonal Ackermanite crystal structure, a tetragonal crystal structure or an orthorhombic crystal structure. In another embodiment, the copper ions do not act as luminescent ions upon excitation with the light emitted by the LED.
US08066908B2 Production of light from sol-gel derived thin films made with lanthanide doped nanoparticles, and preparation thereof
A method of preparing a lanthanide-doped nanoparticle sol-gel matrix film having a high signal to noise ratio is provided. The sol-gels are also provided. A method of preparing light emitting sol-gel films made with lanthanide doped nanoparticles, for the production of white light is also provided. The method comprises selecting lanthanides for the production of at least one of green, red and blue light when excited with near infrared light, preparing nanoparticles comprising the selected lanthanides, stabilizing the nanoparticles with ligands operative to stabilize the nanoparticles in an aqueous solution and selected to be substantially removed from the sol-gel matrix film during synthesis, incorporating the stabilized nanoparticles into a sol-gel matrix and heating to increase the signal to noise ratio of the luminescence by substantially removing the low molecular weight organic molecules. Additionally, light emitting sol-gel films made with lanthanide doped nanoparticles are provided.
US08066906B2 Polymerizable compound and polymerizable composition
A polymerizable compound represented by general formula (1): wherein A represents a ring assembly composed of at least two 6-membered rings each optionally having a substituent; X1 and X2 each represent a (meth)acryloyloxy group; and Y1 and Y2 each independently represent a single bond, an optionally branched alkylene group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an ether linkage, —COO—, —OCO—, a 6-membered ring optionally having a substituent, a naphthalene ring optionally having a substituent, or a combination thereof; the substituent being a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitrile group, an optionally branched alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, an optionally branched alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, or an optionally branched alkenyl group having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, wherein the alkyl, alkoxy, or alkenyl group may have its —CH2— moiety replaced with a sulfur atom or an oxygen atom and may have its hydrogen atom replaced with a halogen atom or a nitrite group.
US08066902B2 Methods for inhibiting corrosion in brazed metal surfaces and coolants and additives for use therein
Disclosed are coolants comprising brazed metal corrosion inhibitors. In one embodiment, the disclosed brazed metal corrosion inhibitor will comprise a polycarboxylic acid functional compound having the structure: wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are each independently selected from the group consisting of H, OH, COOH, C1-C10alkyl groups, glycol esters, anhydride groups, —COOM, and combinations thereof, wherein M is at least one of H, alkali metal ions, alkali earth metal ions, NH4+, amines, imidazoline, polyalcohol esters, C1 to C12 alkyl groups, and combinations thereof; wherein (1) at least three of R1, R2, R3, and R4 contain the group —COOM, wherein M is defined above; or (2) at least two of R1, R2, R3, and R4 contain an anhydride group, and at least one of R1, R2, R3, and R4 contain the group —COOM, wherein M is defined above.
US08066900B2 Azeotropic-like compositions with 1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoro-3-methoxy-propane and 1-bromopropane
Azeotrope-like compositions comprising 1-bromopropane and 1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoro-3-methoxy-propane, and uses thereof, are described.
US08066897B2 Dynamic hard magnet thickness adjustment for reduced variation in free layer stabilization field in a magnetoresistive sensor
A method for manufacturing a current perpendicular to plane magnetoresistive sensor that allows for dynamic adjustment of free layer biasing to compensate for variations in thickness of an electrically insulating layer that separates the hard bias layers from the free layer. During fabrication of the sensor, the actual thickness of the insulation layers is measured. Then, to maintain a desired magnetic stabilization of the free layer one of three options can be utilized. Option one; adjust the stripe height target to maintain the desired magnetic stabilization. Option two; adjust the hard magnet thickness to maintain the desired magnetic stabilization. Option three; use a combination of option one and option two, adjusting both the stripe height target and the hard magnet thickness to maintain the desired magnetic stabilization.
US08066894B2 Substrate processing method and substrate processing apparatus
A substrate can be appropriately oxidized, while oxidation of the substrate can be suppressed.The present invention includes a step of generating mixed plasma by causing a mixed gas of hydrogen (H2) gas and oxygen (O2) or oxygen-containing gas supplied to a processing chamber to form a plasma discharge, and processing the starting substrate by the mixed plasma; and a step of generating hydrogen plasma by causing hydrogen (H2) gas supplied to the processing chamber to form a plasma discharge, and processing the substrate by the hydrogen plasma.
US08066893B2 Method for creating a magnetic write pole having a stepped perpendicular pole via CMP-assisted liftoff
A method for manufacturing a magnetic write head having a stepped, recessed, high magnetic moment pole connected with a write pole. The stepped pole structure helps to channel magnetic flux to the write pole without leaking write field to the magnetic medium. This allows the write head to maintain a high write field strength at very small bit sizes. The method includes depositing a dielectric layer and a first CMP layer over substrate that can include a magnetic shaping layer. A mask is formed over the dielectric layer, the mask having an opening to define the stepped pole structure. The image of the mask is transferred into the dielectric layer. A high magnetic moment material is deposited and a chemical mechanical polishing is performed to planarize the magnetic material and dielectric layer.
US08066890B2 Spatial light modulator with multi-layer landing structures
A method of fabricating a spatial light modulator. The method includes providing a first substrate including a first bonding surface, forming a first layer coupled to the bonding surface, wherein the first layer is characterized by a first set of material parameters, and forming a second layer coupled to the first layer, wherein the second layer is characterized by a second set of material parameters. The method also includes patterning the first layer and the second layer to form a plurality of landing structures extending to a first distance from the bonding surface of the first substrate. The method further includes providing a second substrate including a second bonding surface, joining the first bonding surface of the first substrate to the second bonding surface of the second substrate, and forming a plurality of moveable mirrors from the second substrate. During operation, the moveable mirrors make contact with the second layer.
US08066888B2 Blood processing apparatus with controlled cell capture chamber trigger
A blood cell collection system having means for detecting when a cell separation chamber has filled with white blood cells, and flushing the cells out of the cell separation chamber into a collect bag. A red-green sensor senses the optical characteristics of fluid leaving the cell separation chamber. A baseline value is calculated. The device calculates a ratio of the intensities of red light and green light and a peak-to-peak ratio of intensities. If either ratio exceeds thresholds computed from the baseline, the device flushes the cells into the collect bag. A camera detects white cells passing into the cell separation chamber and the device calculates the number of cells being collected. If the calculated number of collected cells exceeds a certain limit, the cell separation chamber is flushed. If the device is unable to establish a baseline, the donation can proceed, relying solely on the calculated number of collected cells.
US08066887B1 Wastewater concentrator
Disclosed is a system for reducing the demand of wastewater volume flowing through a wastewater collection piping system and thereby increasing the effective capacity of the system. A portion of the wastewater is diverted from a sewer main. The solids are separated from the liquid, for example, by a vortex separator. The recovered liquid can be treated and made available for local reuse. The concentrated solids are reintroduced into the main sewage line in a portion that adjusts the wastewater loading in the sewer main to a predetermined amount or predetermined range. Also disclosed is a system capable of reintroducing the concentrated solids into the sewer main in a portion that adjusts the solids loading in the sewer main to a predetermined amount or predetermined range.
US08066886B2 Method and apparatus for preventing scale deposits and removing contaminants from fluid columns
A method and apparatus provide pulsed fluid treatment at a plurality of distinct points utilizing pulsed magnetic energy concentrated in a plurality of distinct areas along a fluid flow path. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.
US08066884B2 Process for the purification of water
The present invention relates to a process for the purification of water by adding surface-reacted natural calcium carbonate or an aqueous suspension comprising surface-reacted calcium carbonate and having a pH greater than 6.0 measured at 20° C., to the medium, wherein the surface-reacted calcium carbonate is a reaction product of natural calcium carbonate with carbon dioxide and one or more acids and the use of the surface-reacted natural calcium carbonate for this process.
US08066873B2 Floating bioreactor system
An aeration and microbial reactor system for use in decontaminating water including a housing adapted to float within the medium such that a top portion thereof remains adjacent a top surface of the contaminated water while the bioreactor containing inoculated carrier media is attached below. Beneficial microbial populations thrive and spread throughout the liquid medium, and consume or fix the contaminant such that the contaminant is removed from the water.
US08066872B1 Dual weir vortex skimmer
A skimmer system for removing a substantially liquid substance such as oil floating on the surface of a body of water has a reservoir body defining an collected fluid reservoir and having a primary weir edge. A weir tube extends upwardly within the reservoir and provides a secondary weir edge being of less height than the primary weir edge and defines a vortex chamber. A plurality of buoyancy members support the reservoir body in relation to the surface of the body of water and are adjustable relative to the reservoir body by power operated or mechanical devices for selective positioning of said primary weir edge relative to the water surface. A pump having a suction inlet is in communication with the vortex chamber and has a discharge outlet conducting recovered oil to a collection barge. A power source such as a hydraulic fluid supply is connected in driving relation with the pump.
US08066868B1 Fluid catalytic cracking to produce and recover light olefins
Processing schemes and arrangements are provided for the processing a heavy hydrocarbon feedstock via fluidized catalytic cracking with selected hydrocarbon fractions including light olefins being obtained via absorption and separation product recovery.
US08066867B2 Combination of mild hydrotreating and hydrocracking for making low sulfur diesel and high octane naphtha
Methods are disclosed for the hydrotreating and hydrocracking of highly aromatic distillate feeds such as light cycle oil (LCO) to produce ultra low sulfur gasoline and diesel fuel. Optimization of hydrotreater severity improves the octane quality of the gasoline or naphtha fraction. In particular, the operation of the hydrotreater at reduced severity to allow at least about 20 ppm by weight of organic nitrogen into the hydrocracker feed is shown to lead to these important benefits. Post-treating of the hydrocracker effluent over an additional hydrotreating catalyst bed may be desired to meet specifications for ultra low sulfur fuel components.
US08066865B2 Electroplating methods and chemistries for deposition of group IIIA-group via thin films
An electrochemical co-deposition method and solution to plate uniform, defect free and smooth (In,Ga)—Se films with repeatability and controllable molar ratios of (In,Ga) to Se are provided. Such layers are used in fabrication of semiconductor and electronic devices such as thin film solar cells. In one embodiment, the present invention provides an alkaline electrodeposition solution that includes an In salt, a Se acid or oxide, a tartrate salt as complexing agent for the In species, and a solvent to electrodeposit an In—Se film possessing sub-micron thickness on a conductive surface.
US08066861B1 Method for preparing metal powder, device for preparing metal powder, method for processing spent nuclear fuel
A method for producing metal powder is provided the comprising supplying a molten bath containing a reducing agent, contacting a metal oxide with the molten bath for a time and at a temperature sufficient to reduce the metal in the metal oxide to elemental metal and produce free oxygen; and isolating the elemental metal from the molten bath.
US08066854B2 Antimicrobial coating methods
The invention is directed to efficient methods for depositing highly adherent anti-microbial materials onto a wide range of surfaces. A controlled cathodic arc process is described, which results in enhanced adhesion of silver oxide to polymers and other surfaces, such as surfaces of medical devices. Deposition of anti-microbial materials directly onto the substrates is possible in a cost-effective manner that maintains high anti-microbial activity over several weeks when the coated devices are employed in vivo.
US08066852B2 Enrichment of light hydrocarbon mixture
Light hydrocarbon enrichment is accomplished using a vertically oriented distillation column having a plurality of vertically oriented, nonselective micro/mesoporous hollow fibers. Vapor having, for example, both propylene and propane is sent upward through the distillation column in between the hollow fibers. Vapor exits neat the top of the column and is condensed to form a liquid phase that is directed back downward through the lumen of the hollow fibers. As vapor continues to ascend and liquid continues to countercurrently descend, the liquid at the bottom of the column becomes enriched in a higher boiling point, light hydrocarbon (propane, for example) and the vapor at the top becomes enriched in a lower boiling point light hydrocarbon (propylene, for example). The hollow fiber becomes wetted with liquid during the process.
US08066848B2 Absorbent paper product having printed indicia with a wide color palette
An absorbent paper product comprising indicia wherein the indicia comprise L*a*b* color wherein the L*a*b* values are outside of the boundary described by the following system of equations: {a*=−29.0 to −5.2; b*=14.0 to 49.5}→b*=1.4916 a*+57.2563 {a*=−5.2 to 35.3; b*=49.5 to 38.9}→b*=−0.261728 a*+48.139 {a*=35.3 to 38.3; b*=5.3 to 38.9}→b*=−11.2 a*+434.26 {a*=38.3 to 36.3; b*=5.3 to −0.70}→b*=3 a*−109.6 {a*=36.3 to 11.3; b*=−0.70 to −26.0}→b* =1.012 a*−37.4356 {a*=11.3 to −20.0; b*=−26.0 to −29.3}→b*=0.105431 a*−27.1914 {a*=−20.0 to −29.0; b*=−29.3 to 14.0}→b*=−4.81111 a*−125.522 wherein L* is from 0 to 100.
US08066846B2 Composition and process for the treatment of fibre material
The invention relates to a stabilizing composition comprising following components (A) a polymer having the following formula: wherein R1 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group containing 1 to 12 carbon atoms, R2 is —COOM or —CH2COOM, M is a hydrogen atom, an alkali metal ion, an alkaline earth metal ion, an ammonium ion or a mixture thereof, n, m and k are molar ratios of corresponding monomers, wherein n is 0 to 0.95, m is 0.05 to 0.9, and k is 0 to 0.8, and (n+m+k) equals 1, and the weight average molecular weight is between 500 and 20,000,000 g/mol, (B) a chelating agent, (C) a poly-alpha-hydroxyacrylic acid or an alkaline salt thereof or the corresponding polylactone thereof, and (D) optionally a polycarboxylic acid polymer or an alkaline salt thereof. The invention also relates to a process for the treatment of a fiber material.
US08066843B2 Seamless corrugated insert gasket and method of forming the same
The invention relates to a seamless hybrid gasket and the method of making the same. The gasket includes a unitary polymer construction and an insert for enhanced pressure resistance, reduced stress to seal, improved thermal cycling performance and structural support.
US08066837B2 Processes and apparatus for producing photopolymerizable, cylindrical, continuous, seamless flexographic printing elements
Processes comprising providing a layer composite comprising a layer of photopolymerizable material and a removable substrate film disposed on one side of the layer of photopolymerizable material, wherein the photopolymerizable material comprises an elastomeric binder, an ethylenically unsaturated monomer and a photoinitiator; and (a) miter-cutting two edges of the layer composite to be joined, to form two miter-cut ends; (b) providing a hollow cylinder on a rotatably mounted support cylinder, wherein the hollow cylinder has an outer surface and is in a temporarily locked position relative to the support cylinder; (c) applying an adhesion-promoting layer to the outer surface of the hollow cylinder; (d) applying the layer composite to the hollow cylinder bearing the adhesive-promoting layer, wherein the layer composite is disposed on the hollow cylinder such that the removable substrate film faces away from the hollow cylinder and the two miter-cut ends lie substantially one on top of the other, but not overlapping; (e) removing the substrate film from the layer of photopolymerizable material to provide an exposed surface of the layer of photopolymerizable material; (f) contacting the exposed surface of the layer of photopolymerizable material with a rotating calender roll with heating to join the two miter-cut edges and form a processed hollow cylinder, wherein heating comprises a locally-acting heat source moved in an axial direction relative to the hollow cylinder along the entire width of the layer of photopolymerizable material such that the exposed surface is heated; and (g) removing the processed hollow cylinder from the support cylinder.
US08066833B2 Non-toxic boron-containing IR tracer compositions and IR tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility IR trace
A novel non-toxic IR tracer composition is provided herein which, when incorporated into an IR tracer projectile which is then fired, generates a dim visibility IR trace. Such IR tracer composition is a non-toxic, boron-containing, IR tracer composition comprising: from about 20 to about 30% by weight, or from about 45 to about 60% by weight, of potassium perchlorate; from about 5 to about 16% by weight of a metallic fuel which consists of boron; from about 20 to about 25% by weight, or from about 40 to about 50% by weight, of a non-metallic fuel which consists of sodium salicylate; from about 5 to about 10% by weight of a retardant which consists either of iron carbonate or magnesium carbonate; and an effective amount of binder, wherein the total percentage of such ingredients add up to 100%. A novel IR tracer projectile containing such IR tracer composition for generating a dim visibility IR trace is also provided.
US08066831B2 Shock wave and power generation using on-chip nanoenergetic material
A method of generating power uses a nanoenergetic material. The nanoenergetic material comprising thermite is obtained and deposited on a substrate. An igniter is placed on the nanoenergetic material. When power is desired, the nanoenergetic material is ignited. A transducer receives thermal, sonic, magnetic, optic and/or mechanical energy from combustion of the nanoenergetic material and converts it into electrical energy. Preferably, the transducer is a thermoelectric, piezoelectric or magneto device. Preferably, multiple transducers are integrated in one power generators to maximize the power from nanoenergetic thermites.
US08066827B2 Ni and Cu free Pd-based metallic glasses
The invention is directed to Pd-based metallic glass alloys useful in biomedical applications having no Ni or Cu. Exemplary metallic glass alloys are represented by AaBb{(Si)100-c(D)c}d, where A may be selected from Pd, and combinations of Pd and Pt, B may be selected from Ag, Au, Co, Fe, and combinations thereof, and D may be selected from P, Ge, B, S. Also, a, b, c and d are atomic percentages, and a ranges from about 60 to about 90, b ranges from about 2 to about 18, d ranges from about 5 to about 25, and c is greater than 0 and less than 100.
US08066824B2 Covalent modification of metal surfaces
The present invention provides modified metal surfaces, methods of preparing the same, and intermediates thereto. These materials are useful in a variety of applications including biomaterials.
US08066823B2 Device for cleaning of enclosed spaces
Devices for cleaning of enclosed spaces by means of liquid sprayed out. The device comprises a housing with a stationary part to which the liquid is supplied and on which a rotatable part bearing a hub is mounted. The hub has at least one spray nozzle. An element suspends the hub in a bearing in the rotatable part. The rotatable part comprises a turbine driven by the liquid and having a planetary gear for turning the rotatable part and at least one nozzle so that the liquid sprayed out by at least one of the nozzles during rotation sweeps across the inside of the enclosed spaces. The stationary part comprises an upper ring gear in engagement with a lower ring gear on the hub, which two ring gears are surrounded by the housing. The turbine and the planetary gear are fitted in the rotatable part to achieve a compact device.
US08066820B2 Process for cleaning articles
A method of cleaning at least one article having a surface to be cleaned, the method comprising the steps of inserting the article into a cleaning chamber (3), subjecting the surface of the article to treatment with water vapor under conditions such that at least a portion of the water vapor condenses on said surface of the article as condensed water, and introducing an organic solvent into the cleaning chamber (3) and thereby removing the condensed water from the surface of the article, wherein no immersion of the article in water or aqueous solution takes place in the cleaning chamber.
US08066816B2 Probe cleaning method and apparatus
A cleaning apparatus for cleaning measuring probes (18) of a gas turbine engine (1). The invention further relates to a method for cleaning measuring probes (18) of an gas turbine engine (1). The apparatus comprises distribution means (30) comprising a plurality of supply means (31, 32, 33), each comprising connection means (33) arranged for connection to a probe (18), and each supply means (31, 32, 33) being arranged to, when connected to a probe (18), distribute pressurized cleaning liquid to said measuring probe (18), wherein a substantially simultaneous cleaning of probes connected to said distribution means (30) via said supply means (31, 32, 33) can be obtained.
US08066815B2 Multi-workpiece processing chamber
A multi-workpiece chamber includes at least two processing stations, for exposing workpieces to a treatment process. A partition cooperates with the chamber such that the partition is disengagably removable from the chamber and re-engagable with the chamber for selectively dividing the processing stations. The partition is configured to provide for non-line-of-sight travel of certain ones of the process related products between the processing stations. An exhaust arrangement divides exhaust flow into at least two approximately equal exhaust flow portions that leave the multi-workpiece chamber in a way which enhances uniformity of the treatment process for the stations. A partition configuration is described including a partition portion between the stations and a baffle portion extending into an exhaust arrangement. A modified partition arrangement is provided for use in establishing a modified exchange characteristic of the process related products.
US08066813B2 Cementitious compositions containing feldspar and pozzolanic particulate material, and method of making said composition
A method of making a cementitious composition comprises (a) selecting at least one pozzolanic particulate material; (b) selecting and grinding at least one feldspar material to a fineness of at least 3000 Blaine; (c) mixing calcium oxide or calcium hydroxide with gypsum; (d) mixing the ground feldspar with the lime-gypsum mixture to produce an activator; (e) conditioning the pozzolanic particulate material with an aqueous solution; (f) adding the activator to the conditioned material to produce a slurry; and (g) curing the slurry in a sealed container. The pozzolanic particulate material can be slag, fly ash, or siliceous rock. A cementitious composition of the invention comprises a pozzolanic particulate material, a ground feldspar material, a lime compound and gypsum, and uses readily available materials, as an economic replacement for Portland cement, fly ash or other materials in filling, backfilling and paving, particularly for backfilling or stabilizing mine sites.
US08066811B2 Pigment having angle dependence of the interference colors and its production process
The invention disclosed a pigment having angle dependence of the interference colors and its production process, in which mica is used as the substrate and the first metal oxide coating with high refractive index has the optical thickness of silver to golden interference color. And the second metal oxide coating with low refractive index has the optical thickness of the second circle green to the fourth circle interference color. The third coating is a highly refractive metal oxide. The lowly refractive metal oxide is SiO2 and the highly refractive metal oxide is TiO2, SnO2, Fe2O3, Fe3O4, CoO, Co2O3, ZrO2, Cr2O3 or their mixtures as well as complexes. The mica substrate is wet-milled mica powders with a thickness of 0.1-0.9 micrometers and a diameter of 5-250 micrometers. The process involves wet chemical hydrolysis steps to alternately deposit the coatings and modulating the optical thickness of each coatings, to produce the pigment having angle dependence of the interference colors, which has various hues and ranges of angle dependence of the interference colors as well as higher brightness and vivid colors.
US08066806B2 Sintered silicon oxide for film vapor deposition, its production method, and method for producing silicon oxide vapor deposition film
A sintered silicon oxide for film vapor deposition having a density of 1.0 to 2.0 g/cm3, three-point flexural strength of at least 50 g/mm2, and a BET specific surface area of 0.1 to 20 m2/g is provided. When this sintered silicon oxide is used for evaporation source of a film, pin holes and other defects of the film caused by the problematic splash phenomenon can be reliably prevented and stable production of a reliable package material having excellent gas barrier property is been enabled. This invention also provides a method for producing such sintered silicon oxide, and this method can be used in a large scale production without requiring any special technology, and therefore, this method is capable of supplying the market with the sintered silicon oxide at reduced cost.
US08066802B2 Method and device for providing a zone of clean air at an operation area and use of said device
The present invention relates to a method and a device for providing a zone (2) of clean air at an operation area (3) wherein an air treatment device (1) having a lighting device (25) is brought to a functional position such that the air treatment device (1) and the lighting device (25) are located above an operation area (3) and between the operation area (3) and a ceiling (32) in the operation premises (4). Air is taken into the air treatment device (1) from upper portions of the operation premises (4) and subsequently filtered in the air treatment device (1). The air is cooled in the air treatment device (1) to achieve a lower temperature than impure air (8) surrounding the zone (2) of clean air and subsequently discharged from the air treatment device (1) as a laminar air flow descending slowly downwards towards the operation area (3).
US08066800B2 Film-based system and method for carbon dioxide separation
A method for separating CO2 from a processed fluid includes exposing a film to the processed fluid and reacting the CO2 with tetrahedrally coordinated zinc hydroxide moieties contained within the film to facilitate the transport of the CO2 through the film.
US08066797B2 Method of treating metallic and non-metallic by-products
The method of the present invention involves recycling or reprocessing small-sized metallic or non-metallic by-products by enclosing them in a binder prior to melting. The binder can be a steel drum or other suitable steel enclosure. Melting is then accomplished by a cupola.
US08066796B1 Process to create simulated lunar agglutinate particles
A method of creating simulated agglutinate particles by applying a heat source sufficient to partially melt a raw material is provided. The raw material is preferably any lunar soil simulant, crushed mineral, mixture of crushed minerals, or similar material, and the heat source creates localized heating of the raw material.
US08066795B2 Thermal spray powder and thermal spray coating
A thermal spray powder including cermet particles, each of which contains metal containing at least one selected from the group consisting of cobalt, chrome, and nickel, and tungsten carbide. The ratio of the summed weight of cermet particles having a particle size of 25 μm or more in the thermal spray powder with respect to the summed weight of the entire cermet particles in the thermal spray powder is 0.5 to 15%. A thermal spray coating formed from the thermal spray powder is suitable for the formation of a tungsten carbide-based cermet thermal spray coating for use in rolls such as corrugated rolls.
US08066794B2 System and method for recovering minerals
One aspect is a method of recovering minerals. The method includes heating aggregated minerals with microwave energy. The aggregated minerals consists of at least a first and a second mineral bound together, the first and second minerals each having different differential thermal expansion rates such that fractures occur between the minerals of the aggregated minerals. The fractured minerals are subjected to microwave heating to induce fractures between and separation of the at least first and second minerals, and also to ultrasound energy causing further size reduction. The fractured and size-reduced minerals are heated with microwave energy. The fractured and size-reduced minerals consist of metal-containing materials, such that metal-containing materials are heated to at least the melting temperature of one of the metals in the metal-containing materials.
US08066791B2 Air cleaner arrangements with internal and external support for cartridge; components; and, methods
An air cleaner assembly and components therefor are provided. Features are described providing for a cantilevered support of a filter cartridge contained therein, and also, in some examples anti-rotational support. Also, a supported housing seal is shown. A filter cartridge arrangement is described and shown. Methods of assembly and use are also described.
US08066787B2 Bypass flow filter with improved filter efficiency and exhaust system and vehicle having the filter
A bypass flow filter includes a plurality of channels which are formed of at least one structured wall layer and a filter layer. Projecting guide vanes and passages, which are formed by the wall layer and lead to a different channel, are provided in at least a majority of the channels. The passages have a narrowing cross section and a narrowing part of the cross section is directed towards an adjacent guide vane. An exhaust system and a vehicle having a bypass flow filter, are also provided.
US08066778B2 Porous metal cup with cobalt bearing surface
An acetabular cup assembly can include a cup portion and a bearing. The cup portion can include a porous metal outer layer having a first thickness and a solid titanium inner layer having a second thickness. A mating feature can be formed between the cup portion and the bearing. The bearing can be adapted to be selectively secured to the titanium inner layer. In one example, the bearing is formed of cobalt.
US08066764B2 Stent coating for eluting medication
A vascular stent comprising a drug-eluting outer layer of a porous sputtered columnar metal having each column capped with a biocompatible carbon-containing material is described. This is done by placing the stent over a close-fitting mandrel and rotating the assembly in a sputter flux. The result is a coating that is evenly distributed over the outward-facing side of the stent's wire mesh while preventing the sputtered columnar coating from reaching the inward facing side where a smooth hemocompatible surface is required. The stent is then removed from the mandrel, exposing all surfaces, and finally coated with a layer of carbon such as amorphous carbon or diamond-like carbon. The carbonaceous coating enhances biocompatibility without preventing elutriation of a therapeutic drug provided in the porosity formed between the columnar structures. The result is a stent that is adapted to both the hemodynamic and the immune response requirements of its vascular environment.
US08066763B2 Drug-releasing stent with ceramic-containing layer
A vascular or endoluminal stent is adapted to be implanted in a vessel, duct or tract of a human body to maintain an open lumen. The stent includes a base layer of a biologically compatible metal. An intermediate metal particle layer of substantial greater radiopacity overlies the base layer, with particles bonded to the base layer and to each other to leave interstices therebetween as a repository for retaining and dispensing drugs or other agents for time release therefrom. The particles are composed primarily of a noble metal. Exposed surfaces of the particle layer are coated with ceramic-like iridium oxide or titanium nitrate, as a biocompatible material to inhibit irritation of tissue at the inner lining of the vessel when the stent is implanted.
US08066760B2 Stent with movable crown
A system for treating abnormalities of the cardiovascular system includes a stent having a plurality of movable crown portions. When the stent is expanded, the crown portions move to a diameter recoil prevention position. One embodiment of the invention includes crown portions that translate from a concave to a convex configuration with respect to the strut portions of the stent during expansion of the stent. Another embodiment of the invention includes a method reducing diameter recoil of stent upon expansion of the stent.
US08066751B2 Implantable orthopaedic device, in particular for the cervical spine
The invention relates to an implantable orthopaedic device, in particular for the cervical spine, of the type formed by a support plate (2) provided with at least one orifice (3) for passage of a fixing screw (4), which orifice (3) is provided with locking means comprising a slotted metal ring (8) accommodated in a receiving groove (5) on the circumference of said orifice (3) of the plate and intended to cooperate with an annular channel (10) formed in the screw head (4a). According to the invention, the annular chamber (10) of the screw head (4a) is framed by an end of male spherical contour (11′) and by a truncated annular protuberance (12). This end of male spherical contour (11′) is designed to cooperate with the complementary female spherical contour (7a′) formed on the upper flange (7a) of the plate groove (5). Moreover, the locking ring (8) is mounted “floating” in its receiving groove (5), and the channel (10) of the screw head (4a) is connected to said annular protuberance (12) via a truncated part (10c) allowing the screw to be undone.
US08066750B2 Port structures for non-rigid bone plates
There is provided an orthopedic plate and port structures for the plate. The plate can be non-rigid and includes at least one hole for receiving an anchor or an anchor retaining device. The at least one hole can include a rigid port structure that prevents or resists deformation of the plate when the anchor or anchor retaining device is engaged thereto.
US08066749B2 Implant for stabilizing a bone graft during spinal fusion
Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning at a vertebra for resisting the expulsion of a bone graft from within an intervertebral space. The implant includes a buttress plate having an intervertebral plate and an anchoring plate connected such that the intervertebral plate can move relative to the anchoring plate.
US08066744B2 Keyed crown orientation for multi-axial screws
A coupling assembly may include an anchor member, a receiver member, and a seat member. The receiver member may have an anchor member end that cooperates with the anchor member and may have an implant receiving aperture for receiving an implant. The seat member may be disposable within the receiver member between the anchor member and the implant receiving aperture. First and second rotation-limiting features may be engageable to limit rotation of the seat member relative to the receiver member.
US08066743B2 Multi-axial, cross-link connector system for spinal implants
This invention relates to interconnection assemblies for use with spinal fixation systems to treat spinal defects. The interconnection assemblies can include various spinal rod connecting members and interconnecting elements to secure the spinal rod connecting members to each other in variable orientations and lengths. The interconnection assemblies can be adjusted to minimize interference with the spinal column, bony processes, and associated neural, muscular, and ligament components of the spine all the while exhibiting a low profile. The interconnecting elements and related components can be provided as a completely assembled unit that does not inadvertently become disassembled prior to or during implantation.
US08066740B2 Facet joint prostheses
Cephalad and caudal vertebral facet joint prostheses and methods of use are provided. A pair of fixation elements are adapted to be secured within a vertebra in an orientation that best assures a secure and durable attachment to cortical and/or cancellous bone. Artificial facet joint surfaces are mounted on the fixation elements, either directly or with the aid of a support. The artificial facet joint structure may be carried by an arm. The artificial facet joint structure is adapted for articulation with a complementary natural or artificial facet joint structure. Bilateral prostheses may by coupled by a brace to further secure and stabilize the prostheses. Artificial facet joints can be used in combination with artificial intervertebral discs to treat a spinal pathology.
US08066737B2 Needle for suturing instrument
An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing including a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end, a blunt end and notches, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue including placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch.
US08066731B2 Treatment device
A treatment device is provided including a catheter having a lumen that is opened to a distal end of the catheter; a wire passing through the lumen so that the wire is inserted into or retracted from the lumen; and a piece disposed at a distal end of the wire and having the maximum width when the piece is protruded from the distal end of the catheter is set larger than the diameter of the lumen, wherein the piece body is formed of a deformable material having a broad curved surface shape that distributes concentration of pressure acting on tissues, and when the wire is pulled in toward the catheter, the piece being extended in the axial direction by the lumen and reduced in its outer diameter so as to be pulled into the lumen.
US08066727B2 Methods and devices for cutting and collecting soft tissue
A method of cutting breast tissue for removal may include a step of providing a tissue cutting device having an elongate cutting element, the cutting element being movable between a bowed position and a retracted position, the cutting element having a radially outer side and a radially inner side. The tissue cutting device may be introduced into a breast and the elongate cutting element may be moved to the bowed position. A power source may be coupled to the elongate cutting element; and the cutting element may be rotated after the moving step so that the cutting element cuts the breast tissue. The radially outer side of the cutting element may have a larger surface area for transmitting energy to cut the tissue than the radially inner side.
US08066725B2 Anastomosis device having improved safety features
An anastomosis device providing increased functionality, reliability and safety through the use of designs addressing potential puncture of an inflation balloon being used to hold and approximate tissue. The anastomosis device can include bladder retention structures configured to engage and retain tissue without pointed or sharpened surfaces that can rupture the inflation balloon. The anastomosis device can include a reinforced or otherwise protected inflation balloon to resist puncturing by a bladder retention structure. The anastomosis device can include a catheter wall profile selected to physically prevent bladder retention structures from being forcibly bent back so as to avoid potential contact with and puncture of the inflation balloon. The anastomosis device can include a catheter funnel with an internal spring for preventing kinking of the catheter lumen while providing for flexibility and stretch of the funnel to absorb pulling or shock force which can rupture the inflation balloon.
US08066724B2 Anastomosis apparatus and methods
A system for anastomosing a first tubular structure to a second tubular structure having an opening formed therein comprises a support device having a plurality of arms forming spaces therebetween. The support device is adapted to support the first tubular structure within an opening in the second tubular structure to facilitate anastomosing the tubular structures together. The arms can be configured to urge the first tubular structure against the portion of the second tubular structure surrounding the opening to form a seal therebetween. According to one embodiment, a plurality of discrete fasteners are provided to pass through the support device spaces and the first and second tubular structures.
US08066721B2 Surgical clip application assembly
An apparatus for the transoral invagination and fundoplication of the stomach to the esophagus includes a clip applier having sharp toothed jaws for grasping and damaging the fundus prior to applying the clip. The clip applier has an overall diameter of less than 7 mm. The clip applier jaws are coupled to a pull wire via a linkage which increases the mechanical advantage and thus permits greater grasping force. A plurality of clip designs are also provided.
US08066720B2 Surgical method for stapling tissue
An exemplary method for surgically stapling tissue may include providing a surgical stapler that includes at least one staple, a pusher configured to hold at least one staple, a splay arm movable relative to the pusher, where that splay arm includes two spaced-apart splay tips, and a driver movable relative to the pusher; splaying at least one staple by plastically deforming the distalmost staple against the splay tips; and after splaying, closing at least one staple by plastically deforming the distalmost staple against the splay tips. Another exemplary method for surgically stapling tissue may include providing a surgical stapler comprising a plurality of staples, a pusher configured to hold the staples, a splay arm movable relative to the pusher, a driver movable relative to the pusher, wherein the pusher, splay arm and driver are initially in a first configuration relative to one another; splaying at least one staple to a splayed state; after splaying, closing at least one splayed staple, after which the pusher, splay arm and driver are in a second configuration relative to one another; and resetting the stapler to the first configuration of the pusher, splay arm and driver; where the splaying and closing each plastically deform at least one staple.
US08066718B2 Expandable needle suture apparatus and associated handle assembly
A surgical suturing device having an axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end is operable to move a suture through body tissue. A handle assembly is coupled to an elongated shaft having a hollow configuration. An actuating rod is disposed to extend between the handle assembly and the shaft. A needle assembly at the distal end of the actuating rod is movable with the actuating rod between an extended state and a retracted state. Bifurcated portions of the needle assembly define a suture slot, the bifurcated portions have a proximate relationship when the needle assembly is in the retracted state and having a separated relationship when the needle assembly is in the extended state. The needle assembly is biased to the retracted state and the bifurcated portions are biased to the separated relationship.
US08066714B2 Instrumentation for distraction and insertion of implants in a spinal disc space
Instruments for inserting an implant in a space between adjacent bony portions include upper and lower guide members and a drive assembly between the spreaders with an implant positioned forwardly of the drive assembly. The drive assembly is coupled to a handle assembly, and the handle assembly is operable to move the implant forwardly between the guide members to position the implant in a space between the bony portions. The handle assembly includes a mounting portion to which the drive assembly is mounted and an actuating portion operable to effect linear movement of the drive assembly.
US08066713B2 Remotely-activated vertebroplasty injection device
A remotely-activated injection device for use in vertebroplasty is provided to inject a flourescent probe material into a patient. The injection device includes a pump defining an injection chamber having an exit opening; an actuator; and a cable having a first end coupled to the actuator, and a second end remotely engaging the pump. The actuator remotely controls the pump by responsive movement of the cable to thereby cause injection of a flourescent probe material from the injection chamber of the pump through the exit opening to the patient.
US08066708B2 Patient selectable joint arthroplasty devices and surgical tools
Disclosed herein are methods, compositions and tools for repairing articular surfaces repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. The articular surface repairs are customizable or highly selectable by patient and geared toward providing optimal fit and function. The surgical tools are designed to be customizable or highly selectable by patient to increase the speed, accuracy and simplicity of performing total or partial arthroplasty.
US08066706B2 Surgical nail
A surgical nail (1), in particular, an intramedullary nail, has a central axis (2) and is formed of a material (M) having a modulus of elasticity (E). A plurality of transversal openings (5) run transversally to the central axis (2) and have a cross-sectional profile (F) and a transversal axis (6), the cross-sectional profile (F) having a maximum length (a) that runs in the direction of the central axis and a maximum width (b) that runs perpendicular to the length. A longitudinal bore (3) runs coaxially with the central axis (2) and defines a wall (4). A longitudinal insert (7) can be introduced into the region of the transversal opening (5) via the longitudinal bore (3). Said insert has a longitudinal axis (13) and consists of a material (m). The insert (7) comprises at least one longitudinal slot (25) so that said insert can be elastically compressed in a radial manner and includes a plurality of radial elevations (14) fitting inside the transversal openings (5).
US08066705B2 Instrumentation for the endoscopic correction of spinal disease
An improved method and instrumentation for performing spinal surgery, including discectomy, interbody fusion and rigid internal fixation of the spine, from the lateral aspect of the spine is disclosed. The surgical procedure can be performed through a very small incision. The instrumentation of the present invention, all of which is inserted from a lateral position into the spine in the preferred embodiment, comprises a guide pin, a distractor, an extended outer sleeve, an inner sleeve an adjustable drill and an implant driver. The distractor of the present invention is driven into the disc for spacing apart and realigning the adjacent vertebrae. It further functions as an alignment rod for inserting the extended outer sleeve which is a hollow tubular member capable of maintaining said spacing and alignment of two adjacent vertebrae and defines a protected space through which subsequent instruments which may include, but are not limited to a drill and a diameter reducing inner sleeve may be passed, as well as a spinal implant. The remainder of the surgical procedure consisting of the removal of spinal material across the disc, fusion, and rigid internal stabilization via the implant may all be performed via the closed space within the extended outer sleeve.
US08066703B2 Sphincterotome with improved orientation
A sphincterotome including a cutting wire may be configured such that, when activated, the cutting wire assumes a desired cutting position at or near the “12 o'clock” position or any other desired angular configuration. A sphincterotome may have controlled bending characteristics. A distally located micromachined hypotube may, in some instances, provide desired bending characteristics to a sphincterotome.
US08066702B2 Combination electrical stimulating and infusion medical device and method
A combined electrical and chemical stimulation lead is especially adapted for providing treatment to the spine and nervous system. The stimulation lead includes electrodes that may be selectively positioned along various portions of the stimulation lead in order to precisely direct electrical energy to ablate or electrically stimulate the target tissue. The invention also includes a method of activating electrodes in the electrical stimulation lead whereby an ablative lesion can be formed in a desired shape and size. The invention further includes a method of managing pain in a sacrum of a patient, and a method of assembling an electrical stimulation device.
US08066697B2 Multiple cryoprobe delivery apparatus
A cryosurgery apparatus is disclosed. The cryosurgery apparatus an introducer having a hollow and a distal portion, the distal portion being sufficiently sharp so as to penetrate into a body, the hollow of the introducer being designed and constructed for containing a plurality of cryoprobes each of the cryoprobes being for effecting cryoablation, such that each of the plurality of cryoprobes is deployable through the distal portion of the introducer when the distal portion is positioned with respect to a tissue to be cryoablated.
US08066696B2 Ophthalmic laser treatment apparatus
An ophthalmic laser treatment apparatus, which allows SLT to be performed by a laser source not having a Q-switch which emits a continuous wave laser beam, has a laser source capable of emitting a continuous wave visible laser beam to be absorbed into pigment cells of trabecular meshwork, an irradiation optical system for directing the laser beam to a patient's eye so as to irradiate the eye with the laser beam, a device for pulsing the laser beam by controlling a driving duration of the laser source or opening and closing durations of a shutter in the irradiation optical system, a device capable of setting an irradiation duration of the laser beam within a range of 0.1 msec to 5 msec in order to perform Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, and a device capable of setting irradiation energy density of the laser beam within a range of 1 J/cm2 to 8.5 J/cm2.
US08066695B2 Implantable apparatus for administering a therapeutic agent into tissue
An apparatus for administering a therapeutic agent is provided. The apparatus, in an embodiment, includes an ozone generator connected to a scavenger and an ozone administrator via network of tubing and valves. When activated and the valves placed in the proper position, the ozone generator will fill the ozone administrator with ozone. The ozone generator can then be turned off and the valves moved so that the administrator can be disconnected from the remainder of the apparatus. The administrator is typically in the form of a syringe and needle. Once the syringe and needle is filled with ozone, the needle can be inserted into a tissue and the ozone expressed therefrom into the tissue. Various other apparatuses and methods are also contemplated.
US08066694B2 Homeostatic insulin pump
A permanently implanted insulin pump or combined insulin and glucagon pumps, controlled by a valve that expands and contracts due to osmosis as a result of changes in the blood sugar level. The valve is constructed from tissues harvested or grown from the patient's body tissues to prevent rejection, infection or thrombosis. It operates the pump(s) though a blood vessel via a magnetic strip within the valve tissue and a reed switch located outside the blood vessel. The pump battery is recharged by electromagnetic induction in response to low battery warnings. Glucagon and/or insulin are refilled in response to low-level warning indicators, using self-sealing septa located near to the surface of the skin.
US08066693B2 Catheter device
The present invention is a kit for preparing a medical catheter from catheter sections which are short relative to the length of the catheter. The catheter is divided into two or more sections configurable into two configurations. In one configuration, the sections are joined to form a catheter of a greater length than the length of each individual section. In the other configuration, the length of the catheter is reduced. The invention also relates to a method of producing a catheter section by injection molding.
US08066692B2 Medical male luer connector with increased closing volume
Disclosed herein is a valve assembly comprising a male luer end portion and a female luer end portion and a passage for the transfer of fluids extending between the male and female luer end portions, valve means movable between a first position, in which the passage is closed, and a second position, in which the passage is open, biasing means for biasing the valve means toward the first position, and actuating means extending into the male luer end portion and coupled to the valve means to actuate the valve means when a female luer end portion of a medical accessory is engaged with the male luer end portion.
US08066691B2 Method and system for preparing soft tissue for grafting, enhancing grafting results, and grafting autologous fat to soft tissue such as the breast
A method is disclosed for preparing a soft tissue site, and augmenting the soft tissue site, such as the breast(s) of a subject through use of devices that exert a distractive force on the breast(s) and grafting of autologous fat tissue such as domes with sealing rims for surrounding each of the breasts and a regulated pump. The method for preparing the soft tissue site, and enhancing fat graft results, entails application of the distracting force to the targeted soft tissue site for several weeks prior to the graft procedure. A related aspect of the invention includes following the preparation steps by transfer of fat from other areas of the subject to the subject's breast(s), and then reapplication of the distractive force to the breast(s) that received the autologous fat graft. Alternatively, fat from genetically related sources may be used, and the fat may be further processed prior to injection. Substantial breast augmentation, high rates of graft survival and negligible graft necrosis (data demonstrating 80% survival and only 20% necrosis is presented) or calcification result from the practice of these methods.
US08066689B2 Methods and systems for submucosal implantation of a device for diagnosis and treatment with a therapeutic agent
Instruments, systems, implants, and methods are provided for performing submucosal medical procedures in a desired area of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Instruments include a safe access needle injection instrument, a submucosal tunneling instrument, a submucosal dissection instrument, and a mucosal resection device. A submucosal implant device for diagnosing and treating disorders of the body may be implanted. A passive submucosal implant device may take the form of a drug delivery depot in which a therapeutic agent within the depot elutes from the depot according to a predetermined elution profile. An active submucosal implant device may take the form of a drug delivery device that incorporates a self-contained diagnostic system to determine the appropriate delivery time and dosage of a therapeutic agent to be administered.
US08066686B2 Diaper fastener
A fastener (10) comprising an attachment section (30) for permanent attachment to an anchoring area, a target section (60) for permanent attachment to a landing area, and a fastening section (40) for selective attachment and detachment from the target section (60). A breakable connection (70) initially connects the fastening section (40) and the target section (60), and this connection (70) is broken to disconnect the fastening section (40) from the target section (60) when fastener (10) is converted from a closed condition to an opened condition. A single fingerlift (80) can be gripped both when converting the fastener (10) from an installed condition to the closed condition, and when converting the fastener (10) from the closed condition to the opened condition.
US08066680B2 Prefillable intradermal delivery device
An intradermal delivery method for use in intradermally injecting substances into the skin of an animal includes a needle cannula supported by a hub portion that is attachable to a prefillable container. A limiter portion surrounds the needle cannula and extends away from the hub portion toward a forward tip of the needle cannula. The limiter portion includes a skin engaging surface extending in a plane generally perpendicular to an axis of the needle cannula. The skin engaging surface is received against skin of an animal to administer an intradermal injection. The forward tip extends beyond the skin engaging surface a distance that enables penetration of the needle cannula into the dermis layer of the skin of the animal enabling injection of the substance into the dermis layer of the animal. The device includes enclosure means that is moveable for concealing the needle cannula after the injection has been administered.
US08066679B2 Single-handedly actuatable shield
A needle shield is provided for a medical device having a needle cannula. The needle shield includes a guard that is slidably movable along the needle cannula from a proximal position where the tip of the needle cannula is exposed to a distal position where the tip of the needle cannula is shielded. A hinged arm connects the guard to the proximal end of the needle cannula. The hinged arm can be collapsed upon itself, such that the guard is adjacent to the proximal end of the needle cannula. The hinged arm can be extended to cause the guard to move distally along the needle cannula and into a position for shielding the tip of the needle cannula. Structure is provided to prevent excessive additional rotation of the hinged elements of the hinged guard after the tip of the needle cannula is shielded.
US08066672B2 Infusion pump assembly with a backup power supply
An infusion pump assembly includes a reservoir assembly configured to contain an infusible fluid. A motor assembly is configured to act upon the reservoir assembly and dispense at least a portion of the infusible fluid contained within the reservoir assembly. Processing logic is configured to control the motor assembly. A primary power supply is configured to provide primary electrical energy to at least a portion of the processing logic. A backup power supply is configured to provide backup electrical energy to the at least a portion of the processing logic in the event that the primary power supply fails to provide the primary electrical energy to the at least a portion of the processing logic.
US08066670B2 Vascular access device septum venting
A vascular access device may include a septum and a gas permeable vent in communication with at least a portion of the septum. The vent may be capable of venting gas from an extravascular system to which the vascular access device is capable of attaching. A method of venting a medical device may include providing a vascular access device having a septum and forming part of an extravascular system, providing a gas permeable vent in communication with at least a portion of the septum, and venting gas from the extravascular system through the gas permeable vent of the device.
US08066667B2 Occlusion catheter having compliant balloon for use with complex vasculature
A catheter used for treatment of complex vasculature, such as a bifurcated aneurysm, is provided with an inflatable balloon at a distal portion thereof. The shape, location and material of the inflatable balloon are selected such that when inflated, the balloon conforms to the shape of the complex vasculature, or at least a portion thereof, without appreciably deforming the vessel walls. In this manner, the balloon can be used to control flow in the vasculature, for example occluding a selected branch of the vasculature during introduction of material in order concentrate the material and minimize its disbursement by blood flow.
US08066666B2 Multilayer interventional catheter
The catheter comprises a catheter tube formed of two superposed tubular layers of materials which differ from one another. A tubular mediator layer is arranged between the layers to provide an adhesive anchorage for the layers.
US08066662B2 Intradermal needle-less injection device
A programmable injection device, comprising: a nozzle comprising a nozzle head with a fluid input hole and a distinct injection hole, the nozzle head accepts a dose of fluid from the fluid input hole to be injected into the skin of a patient through the injection hole, without use of a needle, a fluid capsule that is connected to said nozzle head and is adapted to provide the nozzle head with multiple doses of fluid for successive injections, without replacing the fluid capsule, an injection head that is adapted to have said fluid capsule and said nozzle head mounted onto it, comprising a first mechanism adapted to forcefully push a dose of a programmable amount of fluid from said fluid capsule to said nozzle head and a second mechanism for injecting by an programmable pressure said dose of fluid from said nozzle head into the skin of a patient in at least one of a programmable velocity or a programmable pressure applied to the skin surface.
US08066660B2 Split-tip catheter including lateral distal openings
A split-tip catheter for placement within the vasculature of a patient and for use in hemodialysis or other suitable procedures is disclosed. In one embodiment, the split-tip catheter includes a catheter body that defines a first lumen and a second lumen. The catheter body further comprises a split distal region, including a venous segment that defines a distal portion of the first lumen and an arterial segment that defines a distal portion of the second lumen. The venous segment includes a recess extending proximally of a nose portion; and a lateral opening in fluid communication with the first lumen. The arterial segment is separate from the venous segment and is removably seatable in the recess provided by the venous segment such that it “nests” therein. The arterial segment also includes a lateral opening in fluid communication with the second lumen.
US08066656B2 Range of motion device
The present invention provides an orthosis for stretching tissue around a joint of a patient between first and second relatively pivotable body portions. The orthosis includes a first member affixable to the first body portion and including a first extension member extending therefrom. A second member affixable to the second body portion is also included and has a second extension member having an arcuate shape extending therefrom. The second extension member is operatively connected to the first extension member and travels through the first extension member along an arcuate path when the second arm member is moved from a first position to a second position relative to the first arm member.
US08066651B2 Examination chair
A medical examination chair is used to seat a patient and move the patient along three essentially-perpendicular planes over a wide range. The chair includes a primary arc which is connected to a stationary column by a horizontal shaft, forming a first axis of rotation. A second axis of rotation, which is essentially perpendicular to the first, passes through first and second ends of the primary arc. The chair also includes a secondary arc which is equipped with a seat and which is disposed inside the primary arc. Third and fourth ends of the secondary arc are connected to the first and second ends of the primary arc by an upper shaft and a lower shaft. The primary and secondary arcs can rotate around the first and second axes of rotation respectively. The medical examination chair further includes braking elements for suddenly stopping the rotational movement.
US08066643B2 Ultrasonic endoscope
The present invention provides an ultrasonic endoscope, comprising: an ultrasonic transducer in a cylindrical shape including a plurality of piezoelectric devices, an acoustic matching layer stacked on a principal plane on a sound emitting plane side, an acoustic lens on a plane of the acoustic matching layer opposite to a plane facing the piezoelectric devices, and a backing material stacked on another principal planes of the piezoelectric devices; an endoscopic observation and endo-therapy unit provided, for performing endoscopic image observation, at a proximal end side of the ultrasonic transducer; a cable assembly including a plurality of cables for transmitting signals to and from the ultrasonic transducer. In the above configuration, the cable assembly is arranged in such a manner that the cable assembly passes through an inside portion of the ultrasonic transducer, and is connected to the ultrasonic transducer at a distal end side of the ultrasonic transducer. Thereby, an ultrasonic endoscope is provided that has an ultrasonic transducer in which the ultrasonic transducer and coaxial cables will not be disconnected even under thermal or mechanical loads.
US08066640B2 Cellular GPRS-communication linked glucometer—pedometer
The Cellular GPRS system includes a cellular-based Glucometer (CBG) for blood glucose monitoring, a pedometer for exertion measurement, combined with user-entered dietary or other diabetes-relevant information. Data from all inputs is transmitted over a cellular network, using a GPRS or other wireless link. The data is preferably stored in the device prior to being transmitted wirelessly over the cellular airway to a central computer server. The remote computer server will evaluate the data received and respond with a data packet (making recommendations on further glucose measurement, exercise, diet, insulin requirements or other).
US08066638B2 Diagnostic and intervention tools for emergency medical dispatch
A system and method assists an emergency medical dispatcher in responding to emergency calls. A computer implemented emergency medical dispatch protocol includes interrogatories for a dispatcher to ask a caller to generate an appropriate response. A diagnostic tool is provided to determine a vital sign of a patient based on a timer and caller relayed information about the patient. An intervention tool is provided to administer assistance and determine a compression rate based on a timer and caller relayed information.
US08066636B2 Disease management system and method including pain code
A system and method for allowing a patient to access an automated process for managing a specified health problem called a disease. The system performs disease management in a fully automated manner, using periodic interactive dialogs with the patient to obtain health state measurements from the patient, to evaluate and assess the progress of the patient's disease, to review and adjust therapy to optimal levels, and to give the patient medical advice for administering treatment and handling symptom flare-ups and acute episodes of the disease. The medical records are updated, the progression of the disease is stored and tracked, and the patient's preferences for treatment are stored and then used to offer medical advice based on the current state of the disease. A prestored general disease trend curve is compared against a patient specific disease trend curve, and the system makes an automated response such as adjusting therapy.
US08066633B2 Electric bending endoscope device
An electric bending endoscope device includes an endoscope with a driving unit, a control unit and an operation portion with a bending instruction portion. The operation portion includes a correction algorithm calculating portion in which the output range of instruction signal of the joystick is converted to coincide with the predetermined output range of the bending instruction portion instruction-signal being the operation signal outputted by the operation portion according to the joystick being the bending instruction portion to be fitted to the operation portion, to generate the bending instruction portion operation-signal.
US08066623B2 In-water training and rehabilitation device
An in-water training and rehabilitation device capable of individually training and rehabilitating an objective muscle of forearms at home with ease is provided. The in-water training and rehabilitation device according to the present invention is an in-water training device 10 that is held with a hand and moved in water for the purpose of strengthening a desired muscle of, mainly, forearms, and includes a substantially planar resistance part 14 whose area is variable and a plurality of handles 13 of different kinds. In the present invention, the plurality of handles 13 of different kinds may be constantly fixed to the resistance part 14 as in (d) or may be adapted to be replaceable as appropriate through an attaching and removing mechanism.
US08066621B2 Exercise apparatus having a user interface which can move arcuately in three dimensions
A method and system for exercising areas of the body such as the neck, the wrist, the ankle, and the torso which require a wide range of motion and effective resistance over this range. A first member can rotate in relation to a frame and a user interface (second member) is moveable in relation to the first member. As a user pushes on the user interface in any of an X-Y direction the user interface travels in a controlled arcuate three-dimensional motion. The user interface is attached to a lead (rope or cable) which holds the user interface at a rest position and also provides a force on the user interface in the opposite direction of the users force. The lead is attached to an adjustable resistive system and/or a damping system that resists the movement of the sliding assembly. The lead spools in and out of from a central location through a fairlead. Many mechanical configurations can be utilized to allow the user interface to travel in an arcuate path in the direction which it is pushed.
US08066618B2 Hydraulic control device for starting device
A hydraulic control device includes a first oil path; a second oil path; a third oil path; an engagement pressure generation unit; a signal pressure generation unit; and an internal pressure switching unit that switches between a non-reduced pressure state where locking occurs due to the signal pressure inputted and a source pressure is outputted unchanged as internal pressure to the first oil path, and a reduced pressure state where the signal pressure is not inputted and a hydraulic pressure is regulated to a constant pressure from the source pressure, based on a feedback pressure of the internal pressure and an urging force of a first urging unit, and outputted as the internal pressure to the first oil path.
US08066613B2 Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) having a main shaft configured to support and position various components of the CVT. Shift cam discs cooperate with ball-leg assemblies to shift the transmission ration of the CVT. Load cam discs, a torsion disc, rolling elements, and a hub cap shell are configured to generate axial force, transmit torque, and manage reaction forces. In one embodiment, a splined input shaft and a torsion disc having a splined bore cooperate to input torque into the variator of the CVT. Among other things, various ball axles, axle-ball combinations, and reaction force grounding configurations are disclosed. In one embodiment, a CVT having axial force generation means at both the input and output elements is disclosed.
US08066612B2 Multi-speed transmission with external drive gearsets
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, four external gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. Each of the external gear sets includes first and second gears. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.
US08066606B2 Multi-group transmission of a motor vehicle
A multi-group transmission of a vehicle is arranged in a drivetrain and includes traction force support during gearshift operations. A clutch mechanism, including a frictional clutch and two shifting clutches is arranged between a drive motor with a driveshaft and a transmission input shaft, such that the driveshaft can be connected to the transmission input shaft by one shifting clutch in a first shift position in combination with the frictional clutch or in a second shift position with bridging of the frictional clutch, such that the driveshaft can be directly connected to a main transmission shaft by the other shifting clutch in a shift position in active combination with the frictional clutch. In a method for operating the transmission, the frictional clutch is controlled and operated in combination with the first shifting clutch as a starting clutch and with the second shifting clutch as an intermediate-gear clutch.
US08066605B2 Planet transmission, drive device comprising the planet transmission and vehicle comprising the drive device
A planetary transmission includes a sun gear, which constitutes an input drive to the planetary transmission, a ring gear arranged around the sun gear, and a planet carrier which is designed to rotate and which carries at least one planet wheel, which planet wheel meshes with the sun gear and the ring gear. The planet carrier constitutes an output drive from the planetary transmission. The planetary transmission further includes a wet disk brake, a first set of brake disks in the brake being rotationally locked to the planet carrier and thereby in operation rotating at the rotational speed of the planet carrier. The planetary transmission further comprises an arrangement for circulation of a cooling fluid through the brake which is rotationally locked to the sun gear and thereby in operation rotates at the rotational speed of the sun gear.
US08066603B2 Multi-speed sprocket assembly
A multi-speed sprocket assembly is provided for engaging a bicycle chain displaceable by a derailleur. The multi-speed sprocket assembly generally includes at least one smaller sprocket and at least one larger sprocket. The larger sprocket includes first and second transitional segments for alternatively receiving a shifting chain segment of the bicycle chain shifting from the smaller sprocket to the larger sprocket. The first transitional segment includes a first run-on ramp configured to receive an outer link plate of the shifting chain segment. The first run-on ramp has a first support point configured to bend the transferring bicycle chain at a first angle to position a first chain roller against a no-load tooth flank of the larger sprocket while a second chain roller rests against a load tooth flank of the smaller sprocket. The second transitional segment includes a second run-on ramp configured to receive the outer link plate of the shifting chain segment. The second run-on ramp has a second support point configured to bend the shifting chain segment at a second angle to position the first chain roller against the no-load tooth flank of the larger sprocket while the second chain roller rests against the load tooth flank of the smaller sprocket.
US08066601B2 Timing chain drive system
In a timing chain driving system in which the speed of a driving sprocket fluctuates cyclically, the tooth pitch of a driven sprocket from which a tension span of the chain travels toward the driving sprocket varies cyclically around the circumference of the driven sprocket so that the tooth pitch at the point at which the timing chain disengages from the driven sprocket is at a minimum when the rotational speed of the driving sprocket is maximum, moderating fluctuations in chain tension. A similar effect can be achieved in the case of a driving sprocket having a cyclically varying tooth pitch by arranging the driving sprocket so that its tooth pitch is maximum at the point at which it is engaged by the chain when its rotational speed is maximum.
US08066600B2 Ratchet mechanism for a chain drive
A ratcheting tensioning device for a closed loop chain driven power transmission system of an internal combustion engine consisting of a base tensioner arm (12) and an adjusting tensioner arm (14) which each contact different strands or chain. Optionally, each arm may have a chain guide element for contacting the chain. The two tensioner arms (12, 14) are connected by a link plate (16) that is pivotally mounted to the base tensioner arm (12) in proximity to a first edge (24) of the link plate (16). A channel (52) located in proximity to a second edge (25) of the link plate (16) which allows a pin or sleeved bolt, to be securely attached to the adjusting tensioner arm (14), to traverse along the length of the channel (52) to urge the two tensioner arms (12, 14) toward each other in response to progressively increasing slack in the chain caused by the wearing over time of the components of the power transmission system.
US08066598B2 Chain tensioning apparatus with temperature-based leakdown
An apparatus for tensioning a chain is provided that compensates for the affect of temperature on oil viscosity by providing, in addition to a continuously open oil leakage path, an additional leakage path open only at lower temperatures when oil is more viscous and leaks at a slower rate. Thus, overall oil leakage at lower temperatures is similar to that at higher temperatures, when the additional leakage path is closed, and the less viscous higher temperature oil leaks at a faster rate from the continuously open oil leakage path. Accordingly, the affect of temperature on hydraulic stiffness of the tensioner assembly is minimized.
US08066596B1 Bicycle gear mechanism
A bicycle gear assembly comprises first and second sets of cog wheels, each having at least three cog wheels of various sizes including a largest cog wheel and a smallest cog wheel. These two sets are oriented so that the largest cog wheel of the first set is aligned with the smallest cog wheel of the second set and vice versa, the first and the second sets of cog wheels define at least a first, second and third pair of substantially aligned cog wheels. Additionally, a chain is mounted about a first pair of the aligned cog wheels and a gear shift assembly is adapted to move the chain from the first pair of substantially aligned cogwheels to the second pair of substantially aligned cogwheels and from the second pair of substantially aligned cogwheels to the third pair of substantially aligned cogwheels.
US08066593B2 Customized racquet stringing system and method
A customized racquet stringing system for a racquet having a plurality of main and cross string segments. The stringing system includes a stringing machine having a base and a stringing platform, and a control unit. The stringing platform is coupled to the base. The stringing platform includes a turntable and a string tensioning assembly. The string tensioning assembly is configured to receive one or more string tension control signals. The control unit is operably coupled to the string tensioning assembly and is configured to execute a string tensioning program and to provide a plurality of the string tension control signals based off of the string tensioning program to the tensioning assembly. The control unit includes a processor and a memory. The tension control signals correspond to at least three separate string tension values applied to the plurality of main string segments and/or the plurality of cross string segments.
US08066592B2 Dampening system for stringed-racquet
A system for storing one or more stringed-racquet vibration dampeners on an article of apparel so that they are easily accessible during game play is disclosed. In disclosed embodiments, the vibration dampener is detachably secured to an article of footwear by way of an opening in the upper of the shoe, such as at the tongue or the like. The dampening device may provide surface ornamentation thereon, such as a logo, other indicia, or a color scheme selectable by the wearer.
US08066590B2 Bunt training aid
A bunt training aid is described. The bunt training aid is used by baseball, softball and other game players to improve their bunting ability. The bunt training aid teaches the player how to catch a ball with a bat.The bunt training aid includes a handle portion, a barrel portion, and a receiving member. The receiving member defines an opening sized to permit a ball to pass through the opening. The receiving member includes a first attachment member to attach the receiving member to the handle portion. The receiving member includes a second attachment member to attach the receiving member to the barrel portion. The receiving member is positioned between the handle portion and the barrel portion. A net is attached to the receiving member in order to hold the ball that has passed through the opening.
US08066580B2 Putt and swing training plate
A golf training plate including a body rectangular in shape comprising a top surface, a left side, a right side, a forward side and a rear side having two foot placement cutouts extending from the rear side towards the forward side and an alignment arm in the shape of an “L” comprising a short portion adjacent the right side of the body and a long portion, substantially parallel to the forward side of the body defining a training space for placement of a ball. The body and the alignment arm each have a series of ball alignment lines to aid in placement of the ball relative to the foot placement cutouts.
US08066578B2 Challenge course
A challenge course (10) comprising a frame (20) having a substantially horizontally oriented track (120), a vertically oriented column (60) fixed to and extending downwardly from said substantially horizontally oriented track beam (30), said vertically oriented column (60) terminating in a bottom portion that is fixed to a substantially oriented foundation (40). The track (120) has a channel (150) therein in which a moveable member (360) slides. The track (120) has interchanges whereby the moveable member (360) can be moved in one of different directions. Descending downwardly from said moveable member (360) is a safety cable (350). The safety cable (350) extending downwardly to a safety harness (600). A further embodiment includes the challenge course (10) that can be deployed and re-deployed by hauling with a motor-vehicle. Further, a participant can be secured to the track (120) while still on the ground before ascending to the activity height.
US08066577B2 Infant swing
Infant swing has a front leg frame and a rear leg frame pivoting to each other and connecting to a seat assembly via a driving module at the pivot between the front leg frame and the rear leg frame for swinging the seat back and forth. Two protection guards are mounted and connected between the front leg frame and the rear leg frame for preventing the toddler from being harmed when reaching his/her hands out between the frame and the seat as the toddler sits in the seat and swings relative to the frame. A battery assembly that provides power for the driving module is configured at the bottom of the frame for effectively lowering the center of gravity of the infant swing and providing higher stability. Skidproof foot assemblies mounting at the elbows of the front leg frame and the rear leg frame can further provide stability and integrity.
US08066576B2 Amusement ride
An amusement ride, such as a roller coaster or vertical tower track ride, includes an attachment assembly movably connected to a track system. A vehicle assembly is connected to the attachment assembly and includes a seat assembly having at least one rider seat. The vehicle assembly is coupled to the attachment assembly and configured such that the seat assembly is capable of fully rotating about first and second, and preferably even third axes independent of the track system.
US08066570B2 Network game system, game machine, game machine control method, and information storage medium
A network game system is provided in which unfairness between players playing on first and second game machines can be corrected in a network game system in which the first game machine displays a game screen of a content corresponding to an operation executed in the first game machine and makes the second game machine display a game screen of a content corresponding to an operation executed in the second game machine by exchanging data with the second game machine through a communication network. A controlling unit (an operation information acquiring unit (34) and a display controller (36)) controls a length of a time period from a time when an operation is executed in the first game machine (game machine (12a)) to a time when a game screen of a content corresponding to the operation is displayed in the first game machine, based on data exchange time information related to a time period required for exchange of data between the first game machine and the second game machine (game machine (12b)).
US08066562B1 Method of simulating a traditional roulette game experience
A method of simulating a traditional casino roulette game experience using a specially designed deck of thirty eight (38) playing cards to determine a winning number rather than via a spin of the roulette wheel. The deck includes one card for each single unique number from the roulette wheel, i.e. 00, 0, and numbers 1-36. The deck is shuffled so that the cards are drawn at random to simulate a spin of the roulette wheel. The dealer activates the shuffler to draw a card from the shuffled deck. A bar code on the drawn card is read into a computer via a scanner. Scanning the card activates the computer to provide a visual representation of a spin of the roulette wheel on a monitor located near the roulette table. The visualization shows the ball landing on the unique number of the roulette wheel dictated by the drawn card.
US08066560B2 System and method for information handling system floor tile cooling airflow measurement
External airflow rates from floor vents that provide chilled air to information handling systems are measured with a disposable tool to ensure compatibility of the information handling systems' external air cooling constraints with the cooling capacity of the floor vents. For instance, an information handling system manufacturer sends a disposable tool formed from a cardboard box to a user location. The tool has an open bottom to fit over a floor vent and a slat cut in a side surface to move in response to airflow that enters at the bottom. Pre-calibrated markings associated with expected airflow rates for information handling system cooling floor vents measure airflow rates by the degree of slat movement so that the user location and manufacturer may confer to confirm the compatibility of the user location cooling capacity with selected information handling systems.
US08066559B2 In-plane airflow circulation contingency and control system
The invention eliminates recirculation or back draft associated cooling air flows in systems that use two or more cooling fans/blowers (or other possible cooling devices). The inventive device with accomplish this by mean of an “Iris-like” in-plane device. The solution described herein is to be passive in nature (although it could be made to respond to electronic or other signals/commands/control mechanisms) and will be capable of responding to a filed fan/blower and engage at the time of fan/blower failure simply by detecting the change of pressure associated with the failed cooling device. The inventive device will reduce the space required and the cost associated with back draft damping or recirculation. In addition, the device can be retrofitted to existing systems and can be designed to be an integral part of a finger guard (a safety feature) of a cooling fan. The device will also provide acoustic advantages of more traditional back draft or recirculation as the Iris will retract completely out of the airflow during normal operation and therefore not result in the acoustic vibrations associated with many of the existing solutions.
US08066555B2 Polishing pad
A polishing pad includes polishing elements interdigitated with one another over a surface of the polishing pad. Each of the polishing elements is secured so as to restrict lateral movement thereof with respect to others of the polishing elements, but remains moveable in an axis normal to a polishing surface of the polishing elements. Different densities of the polishing elements may be positioned within different areas of the surface of the polishing pad.
US08066551B2 Retaining ring with shaped surface
A retaining ring can be shaped by machining or lapping the bottom surface of the ring to form a shaped profile in the bottom surface. The bottom surface of the retaining ring can include flat, sloped and curved portions. The lapping can be performed using a machine that dedicated for use in lapping the bottom surface of retaining rings. During the lapping the ring can be permitted to rotate freely about an axis of the ring. The bottom surface of the retaining ring can have curved or flat portions.
US08066543B2 Toy top playing apparatus
A toy top playing apparatus for one person to play a toy top spinning game. A main body of the apparatus is provided with a display portion for displaying a game point, a play stage for spinning a toy top thereon, a dummy toy top simulating a toy top and arranged on the play stage, a sensor for detecting contact between the toy top and the dummy toy top, and a control section for processing the game point displayed on the display portion when the sensor detects the contact. The dummy toy top rotates on its axis, and a rotational direction thereof is controlled.
US08066542B2 Transformable toy
A transformable toy which can be automatically transformed despite the fact that members are merely pivotably connected as in conventional transformable toys is provided. The transformable toy, which is transformed from a box-like configuration to a robot configuration, is vertically and longitudinally divided into two parts, when in the box-like configuration, includes an upper front member, an upper rear member, a lower front member, and a lower rear member, and has a frame disposed therein for supporting the above members. The upper front member and the upper rear member are each pivotably connected to the frame directly, or through a link, and are foldably connected with each other. The connecting portion between the frame and the upper rear member has an elastic member for urging the upper front member and the upper rear member in a direction to be folded.
US08066541B2 Method for producing a contact pin for a fluorescent tube and contact pin for a fluorescent tube
The present invention relates to a method for producing a contact pin (01) for use as an electric contact element of a fluorescent tube, wherein the contact pin has a recess (06) extending along the longitudinal axis (05) thereof, wherein a connection wire of the fluorescent tube can be inserted into said recess and can be electrically connected to the contact pin (01), wherein the outer wall of the contact pin (01) has a cylindrical contact region (17) which can be engaged in a base bracket of the fluorescent tube in order to establish an electrical contact between the base bracket and the fluorescent tube, and wherein the outer wall of the contact pin (01) has an annular collar (08) with which the contact pin rests against the wall (04) of an end cap (02) when inserted into a recess of the end cap (02) which is provided on the axial end of the fluorescent tube.
US08066538B1 Jet boat with engine-balance system
A jet boat comprising an engine-balance system, the engine-balance system comprising a first impeller and a second impeller, wherein water can be driven out of the first impeller for forward motion and water can be selectively driven out of the second impeller, regulated by a balance detecting device, wherein water from the second impeller can provide balance to the jet boat.
US08066537B1 Probe connector
A probe connector adapted for fastening a cable thereto includes a shell, a plunger and an elastic element. The shell has a barrel and a base shell with an accommodating chamber therein. The base shell is connected with the barrel. A bottom of the base shell extends downward to form a connecting piece of which two opposite side edges oppositely extend outward to form two clipping pieces. The clipping pieces are bent towards each other to clip a core wire of the cable therebetween. The plunger is movably inserted in the barrel and further projects out of the barrel. The elastic element is telescopically assembled in the barrel and the accommodating chamber along the movement direction of the plunger, with one end thereof resisting against a bottom of the plunger and the other end thereof abutting against an inner side of a bottom plate of the base shell.
US08066535B2 Mounting apparatus for electronic device
A mounting apparatus includes a mounting rack and an electronic device. The mounting rack includes a frame. An interface is defined in the frame. The frame includes a securing member. An electronic device is inserted in the mounting rack from front to back. The electronic device includes a back wall. The back wall is adjacent to the frame and defines a port for receiving a cable. The cable is secured to the securing member and inserted into the interface of the frame.
US08066534B1 Probe connector
A probe connector includes a pedestal shell having a pedestal platform and a barrel extending upward from the pedestal platform with a fastening body protruded outward at a top of the barrel, a positioning shell removably coupled to the fastening body and having a blocking plate covered on the top of the barrel and side plates abutting against outsides of the fastening body, a probe pin movably restrained in the barrel by the blocking plate and further projecting upward out of the blocking plate, and an elastic element assembled between the probe pin and the pedestal platform. Two windows are opened at two opposite parts of the fastening body. Two opposite side plates are provided with two contact arms extending downward and inclined towards each other to pass through the windows and always resist against the probe pin to clip the probe pin therebetween.
US08066533B2 Electric devices
An electric device according to the present invention includes a main body portion of the electric device that is designed to be connected to a battery park. A connecting portion for connecting the battery pack is formed to the main body portion of the electric device. A terminal supporting plate having at least a pair of terminals and for connecting terminals of the battery pack is fixed to the connecting portion. The terminals and are arranged on a front surface side of the terminal supporting plate that is exposed from the connecting portion. An electric material component is arranged on a rear surface side of the terminal supporting plate.
US08066532B2 Electrical connector assembly with improved contact arrangement and metallic shell
An electrical connector assembly (100) includes an insulative housing (1) with a plurality of terminal passages (12), a plurality of contacts (2) received in the corresponding terminal passages and a PCB (3) electrically connected with the contacts. The PCB has a terminal soldering area (31) and a wire soldering area (32), the terminal soldering area defines a plurality of first conductive pads (311) on a top surface and a bottom surface of the PCB, the first conductive pads are electrically connected with corresponding contacts. The wire soldering area defines a plurality of second conductive pads (321) on the top surface and the bottom surface of the PCB, the second conductive pads are electrically connected with corresponding wires, and the first conductive pads are electrically connected with the second conductive pads, the number of the first conductive pads located on the top surface is different from the second conductive pads on the top surface.
US08066531B2 Microphone output connector
A microphone output connector is of a three-pin type. A cylindrical connector housing and a first pin are installed at an end of a conductive microphone case of a microphone to be electrically connected to the microphone case. The microphone output connector includes a shield cover penetrated by three pins and covering a surface of the connector base. The shield cover partly extends to cover a portion of the connector base at which a thread is screwed in so that the shield cover is pressed against an inner surface of the cylindrical connector housing by the thread. The shield cover is pressed against the inner surface of the cylindrical connector housing by the connector base at a side of the connector base opposite to the position at which the thread is screwed in.
US08066527B2 Surge snap-on module assembly
A surge snap-on module assembly includes a plug connector adapted to be received by an electrical device. A second housing is connected to a first housing. A surge protection device is disposed between the first and second housings. At least one first opening is formed in the second housing. A plurality of wires pass through the at least one first opening and are connected to the surge protection device. Accordingly, the surge protection device protects electrical apparatus connected to the electrical device from electrical surges.
US08066525B2 Electrical connectors and methods of manufacturing and using same
An electrical connector forms electrical contact by tightening of a movable, electrically-conductive spiral around un-insulated wire or wires. The spiral coils around the wire multiple times and tightens on the wire(s) when either one or the other end, or both ends, of the spiral is/are rotated relative to the other. One region of the spiral is preferably fixed to an insulating housing or otherwise retainer from movement in the housing, while another region of the spiral may be rotated for the tightening on the wire and then preferably latched to the housing so that the spiral remains in the tightened condition. A terminal end may extend from the spiral, or connectors without a terminal end may be used to electrically connect wires to each other that extend from and to other equipment not located on the connector itself. Multiple spirals may be provided in one connector, including spirals that tighten around separate wires at opposite ends/side of the connector. Various styles of connectors are made possibly, including modular connectors that may be assembled in multiple combinations.
US08066524B2 Surgical system with electro-mechanical interfaces to mount robotic surgical arms
In one embodiment of the invention, a method of mounting a surgical robotic arm to a set-up arm of a robotic surgical system is provided that includes sliding a pair of guide slots of the surgical robotic arm over a pair of guide tabs in the set-up arm; aligning electrical connectors in the set-up arm to electrical connectors of the surgical robotic arm; and coincidentally mating male electrical connectors to female electrical connectors while finally mating the guide tabs in the set-up arm to flanges of a housing of the surgical robotic arm.
US08066523B1 Power socket device having switches
A power socket device having switches is disclosed and has a housing, socket units, positioning members and conductive frames. The housing is formed with recesses communicated with an inner space thereof. The socket unit is installed in the recess, and can be slid forward and backward therein. The socket unit has a socket body and conductive terminals, each of which has a conductive block. The positioning member can be elastically received in the recess and stand upward. The conductive frames are engaged in the housing, and the conductive block can be in contact with or disconnected from the conductive frames. Thus, when the socket unit is slid forward or backward, a close circuit or an open circuit will be formed between the conductive block and the conductive frames, so that it is convenient to switch off the power without additionally adding redundant switches.
US08066521B2 Electronic device with multiple USB ports
An electronic device includes a main body, a circuit board, a receiving space defined in one side of the main body, a plurality of USB ports and a driving module. The receiving space includes a plurality of sets of fixed contacts on a bottom thereof, and the fixed contacts are electrically connected to the circuit board in the main body. The plurality of USB ports are slidably received in the receiving space, and each USB port comprises a set of external contacts. The driving module is configured to push one of the USB ports to a first position, wherein the USB port is able to slide from the first position to a second position where the set of external contacts of the USB port engages one of the plurality of sets of fixed contacts, which electrically connects the one of the USB ports with the circuit board.
US08066519B1 USB connector
A USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector includes an insulating housing having a base portion. The base portion extends rearward to form an extending portion. Two sides of a rear surface of the extending portion define two receiving cavities, respectively. A separating wall is formed between two receiving cavities. Two side walls are formed outside the respective receiving cavities. A plurality of signal terminals fixed in the insulating housing respectively have a soldering foot received in the receiving cavity, with a distal end of the soldering foot extending beyond a bottom of the extending portion. A fixing board is inserted in bottoms of the receiving cavities. The fixing board has a base board which defines a clipping slot penetrating a front edge thereof and clipping on the separating wall and two restraining slots at two sides of the clipping slot for constraining the soldering feet of the corresponding signal terminals therein.
US08066518B2 Waterproof connector, mounting structure of waterproof connector and mounting method of waterproof connector
A waterproof connector is mounted on a circuit board fixed within an enclosure. The waterproof connector is connectable with a mating connector through a connector passageway formed in the enclosure. The waterproof connector includes a contact electrically connectable with the mating connector, an insulating housing holding the contact, a first seal disposed on a circumference of the housing, and a faceplate into which the insulating housing is inserted. The having a cylindrical section and a brim section. The cylindrical section includes a first and second open end with the brim section formed at the first open end and spreading outwards. A second seal is interposed between the first open end and the insulating housing.
US08066517B2 Separable electrical connectors using isotropic conductive elastomer interconnect medium
An electrical connector using an isotropic conductive elastomer as the interconnect medium.
US08066515B2 Multiple graphics adapter connection systems
A system provides a digital multi-bit connection between two or more graphics adapters. Each graphics adapter is manufactured as a printed circuit board including a finger-type edge connector. When two or more graphics adapters are installed in a system the edge connectors of each graphics adapter may be coupled to each other via a connection device that provides a portion of the digital multi-bit connection. The remainder of the digital multi-bit connection is provided by conductive traces coupling each finger of the edge connector to a graphics processing unit that is affixed to the graphics adapter. The connection device may be installed by an end-user as each additional graphics adapter is installed in the system.
US08066513B2 System for correlating psychological profile to customized environment
A method of producing a customized environment for a client includes the steps of identifying the psychological profile of the human client as at least one of a plurality of predetermined psychological profile types. A plurality of selectable personal environment types are determined, and a psychological profile type of the human client is correlated to one of the selectable plurality of personal environment types. An arrangement for selecting the customized environment for the human client includes an input arrangement for inputting client information into a computer, a client information memory areas for storing the client information, an environment memory area for storing information relating to a plurality of environment types, each environment type having a respectively associated memory address, and a processor coupled to the client information memory area and the environment memory area, the processor converting the client information into a memory address, such as a database address.
US08066506B2 Melt balancing element in a manifold melt channel
A manifold of an injection molding apparatus includes a primary melt channel and secondary melt channels extending from the primary melt channel. A shear rod is disposed at the junction between the primary and secondary melt channels. The shear rod extends from the junction into the primary melt channel and is disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the primary melt channel.
US08066504B2 Helicopter blade mandrel with roller assembly
Methods and apparatus are provided for making a rotor blade spar from composite material wherein a multi-component mandrel is used to form the composite spar. The mandrel is made using a number of components that are assembled and held in place using a roller assembly. The roller assembly is removed after pre-cure lay up and compaction of the composite material. Once the roller assembly is removed, the remaining mandrel components can be separated from each other and easily removed from the spar. The mandrel components, including the roller assembly, can then be re-assembled and re-used to form additional composite spars.
US08066501B2 Apparatus and method for molding onto a stretched blank
An apparatus and method for molding a component onto a stretched blank. The apparatus includes a stretching assembly mounted adjacent to a first mold part. The stretching assembly includes a plurality of clamp assemblies that grasp the peripheral edge of the blank and a plurality of slide assemblies that move the clamp assemblies away from one another to apply a stretch to the fabric. The apparatus further includes a press for closing a second mold part onto the first mold part while the fabric is held in a stretched condition by the stretching assembly. In one embodiment, the stretching assembly may include a float plate that is movable with respect to the first mold part between a stretch position and a mold position. The apparatus may include a robot with tooling for moving the fabric onto the stretching assembly. The tooling may include a plurality of shot pins that push the fabric off of the tooling onto corresponding fabric pins in the stretching machine.
US08066499B2 Dual gland air inversion and steam cure of cured in place liners
Installation of a flexible cured in place liner by inverting the liner with air and curing the liner with steam introduced through a perforated lay flat hose without deflating the liner between the inversion and cure. The installation is performed with an apparatus having two independently operable glands with at least one fluid inlet port installed on the line downstream of the second gland liner. As the liner reaches the distal end of the conduit to be lined, it enters a sample and porting pipe with an exhaust pipe gland and exhaust pipe and it is pierced by a rigid porting tool. Steam is then introduced into the lay flat hose to cure the resin and is exhausted through an exhaust hose connected to a controllable exhaust pipe. After curing steam is replaced with air to cool the liner, the ends are cut to restore service through the host pipe.
US08066498B2 Magnetic field molding device, method for producing ferrite magnet, and die
The objects of the present invention are to provide a magnetic field molding device capable of improving yield in a production and stabilizing product quality, and a method for producing a ferrite magnet. In molding in a magnetic field, the mortar-shaped die 19 provided with a plurality of the cavities 13 is heated by the heater member 20, provided in the heater block located under the mortar-shape die 19, under control of a controller at varying temperature depending on the position of the mortar-shape die 19, to keep uniform temperature of the slurry in the cavities 13. This assures good and stable slurry dehydration properties and improves product yield.
US08066497B2 Pump with side surface coating
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a positive-displacement pump, in particular a vane cell pump, having a pump element, in particular a rotor, which is situated within a contour ring and rotatable between two side surfaces where a limited coating is located on at least one of the side surfaces.
US08066494B2 Micropump
A micropump having a diaphragm portion, a valve portion of an intake-side check valve, and a valve portion of a discharge-side check valve formed in a single elastic-member sheet. A piezoelectric actuator is attached onto a back surface of the diaphragm portion. The elastic-member sheet is sandwiched between a first case member and a second case member, the elastic-member sheet providing sealing between both case members. A vibration chamber is defined between the elastic-member sheet and the first case member, the vibration chamber housing the piezoelectric actuator. A pump chamber is defined between the elastic-member sheet and the second case member.
US08066489B2 Aerofoil assembly
An aerofoil assembly includes a plurality of rotatable blades. A damping member is disposed between at least two of the blades, each of the at least two blades having an aerofoil portion, a stem portion and a root portion. A recess is provided on two cooperating stem portions with a first shelf extending from a first end of each recess, and a second shelf extending from a second end of each recess to define a compartment. When the blades are aligned the damping member is held on one side of the shelves within the compartment. The damping member is provided with a projection at one corner and a projection on a diagonally opposite corner, the longitudinal distance between ends of the projections being greater than the distance between edges of the first and second shelf.
US08066480B2 High volume low speed fan
A high volume low speed (HVLS) fan provides improved air circulation and thermal control in a building by incorporating composite fan blades pivotable to both positive and negative pitch angles. The blades are molded of polymer material over a metal tube core for strength and ease of attachment to the fan hub, and have a symmetrical airfoil shape to produce an efficient bi-directional conical airflow. The fan includes a control unit providing manual and automated intelligent control over blade angle and rotational speed, as well as startup with approximately zero blade angle for more economical power consumption and less motor wear. The fan structure and mounting system allows the fan to be installed at an optimal height inside a variety of buildings to provide increased efficiency of air destratification and air mixing. An array of multiple HVLS fans with alternating directions of airflow can further increase efficiency of air movement.
US08066479B2 Non-integral platform and damper for an airfoil
A section of a gas turbine engine includes a damper which extends from a disk between a first blade and a second blade to provide a dissipating vibratory motion energy in the form of friction heating.
US08066476B2 Electrical submersible pump stage construction
A pump stage is disclosed for use with an electrical submersible pump. The stage includes an impeller and diffuser, each having a hub, blades and an outside ring. In such pump stage, the stage flow area is constructed from separate segments manufactured from wear resistant material. Furthermore, each separate segment is retained by the hub using an external compression fit ring.
US08066473B1 Floating air seal for a turbine
A gas turbine engine with a floating air seal to form a seal between a rotor disk and an adjacent stator vane segment shroud and allow for both axial and radial shifting of the rotor disk with respect to the stator while maintaining the sealing capability. The floating air seal includes an annular piston that slides within an annular groove formed within the stator in an axial direction. The annular piston includes an annular groove on the rotor disk side to form an air cushion against the rotor disk, a pressure buffer surface on the opposite end, and a central passage to supply the air cushion chamber with pressurized fluid from the buffer pressure chamber. A balancing force on the annular piston is formed between the air cushion formed and the pressure force acting to push the annular piston toward the rotor surface. The pressurized air used to form the floating air seal is also supplied to internal cooling air passages of the turbine blades through passages formed within the rotor disk or by a cover plate attached on the rotor disk side.
US08066472B2 Method and apparatus for fan shaft bearing lubrication
A lubrication system for a bearing assembly includes a fan shaft with a plurality of conduits, a first bearing rotatably supporting the fan shaft, and a second bearing rotatably supporting the fan shaft where the second bearing is axially spaced from the first bearing. The plurality of conduits includes at least a first conduit aligned with the first bearing and a second conduit aligned with the second bearing. A spray bar includes a plurality of supply orifices that direct lubricating fluid to the first and second bearings via at least the first and second conduits.
US08066469B2 Tray stacking apparatus
System and apparatus for automatically stacking trays involve receiving trays on a receiving platform, detecting the arrival of the tray on the platform, and synchronously displacing the tray to a moveable tray cart located in a tray stacking area of a stacking tower. An automated tray sliding mechanism displaces the tray to the stacking area upon detection of the tray at the receiving platform. Trays displaced in the stacking area of a lower section of a stacking tower form a tray stack. A stack elevator of the tower engages and elevates the tray stack providing a space beneath the stack allowing the next incoming tray to be displaced into the stacking area and assume the provided space beneath the tray stack, the incoming tray thereby assuming the lowermost position in the tray stack. Trays are added to the lowermost position in the stack until the stack height reaches a predetermined height and is removed from the stacking area.
US08066467B2 Omni-directional towbarless aircraft transporter for moving aircraft
An apparatus for moving parked aircraft with an omni-directional tractor via an aircraft lift dolly that is revolvably coupled thereto. The aircraft lift dolly may be removably coupled to the omni-directional tractor or may be integral to it. The aircraft lift dolly includes a lift mechanism having a lift carriage which is selectively elevated. The lift carriage includes a fixed forward chock and a rear chock that moves longitudinally and laterally with respect to the forward chock. The chocks are positioned about the aircraft nose gear without movement of the aircraft. Elevating the lift cradle elevates the chocks and the nose gear cradled therebetween.
US08066466B2 Substrate processing sequence in a Cartesian robot cluster tool
A method and apparatus for processing substrates using a multi-chamber processing system, or cluster tool, is provided. In one embodiment of the invention, a robot assembly is provided. The robot assembly includes a first motion assembly movable in a first direction, and a second motion assembly, the second motion assembly being coupled to the first motion assembly and being movable relative to the first motion assembly in a second direction that is generally orthogonal to the first direction. The robot assembly further comprises an enclosure disposed in one of the first motion assembly or the second motion assembly, an actuator within the enclosure, and a fan assembly disposed in the enclosure that is adapted to generate a pressure within the enclosure that is less than a pressure outside of the enclosure.
US08066465B2 Fastening device with tolerance compensation
A device for fastening components with automatic compensation of tolerances of the spacing therebetween, comprising a base unit including a blind rivet nut securable to one of the components, a threaded adjusting nut and a sleeve-shaped retainer adapted to receive, an adjusting unit including a threaded sleeve, a locating plate and a driving bush connecting the threaded sleeve and the locating plate, the threaded sleeve adapted to be being screwed into the adjusting nut via a first thread pairing of a first thread direction, and a fastening screw which may be screwed into the rivet nut secured to one of the components via a second thread pairing of an opposing second thread direction, forming with the driving bush a releasable connection so that the adjusting unit rotates during rotation of the fastening screw, moving the locating plate into contact with the second component.
US08066464B1 Deck fastener
The present invention is a hidden fastener for securing deck boards to supporting joists. The fastener consists of a head shaft; one or more blades attached to the head shaft oppositely, if there are two blades, at the top outer surface of the head shaft and being formed to penetrate into deck boards, whether wood or composite, when rotated therein to; a driver attachment being located in the upper portion of the head shaft and shaped to fixedly hold a driver for turning the head shaft and one or more blades; and a fastening device in a lower portion of the head shaft. The fastening device may be an integral part of the head shaft or a screw mounted in lower port of the head shaft. After the location of the fastener is defined on the joist, the fastening device is driven into the joist to hold the head shaft thereto. One or more adjacent boards are butted against the head shaft. A driver is then inserted into or on to the driver attachment and the head shaft is rotated a sufficient amount to cause the one or more blades to be imbedded within the boards. The deck boards also may be removed as desired by reversing this procedure thus allowing for the replacement of damaged boards or for gaining access to the space under the deck without the tedious task of removing and replacing conventional deck screws, for example.
US08066462B2 Development in beam type fasteners
The invention provides a fastener (10) which has an actuating means (12), a bias means (14) and a flexible core (16). The flexible core (16) has an means for engaging (18) which may be integral with but is preferable separate from the flexible core (16)The actuating means (12) includes a material adapted to contract when activated, such as shape memory alloy. Upon contraction of this material, the means for engaging (18) is movable between an engagement position and a disengagement position. The bias means (14) biases the flexible core (16) to the engagement position.
US08066458B2 Air cargo centerline restraint system having restraints mounted over floor joists outside the wingbox area for lateral support
A cargo loading system capable of retaining a pallet along a centerline of a cargo aircraft and outside the wingbox area of the aircraft includes a number of devices. Included among these are first and second centerline end restraints mounted on the centerline, at least one caster panel mounted on one side of the cargo hold and across the centerline from a side door of the aircraft, and a plurality of mechanical restraints mounted on a floor of the cargo hold on either side of the centerline and outside the wingbox area. The first and second centerline end restraints each have at least one retractable lockhead configured and dimensioned to engage an end of a pallet. The at least one caster panel includes at least one retractable guide formed at a first end thereof, and at least one retractable guide formed along a first side thereof. Lastly, the plurality of mechanical restraints are mounted with a portion of each mechanical restraint overlying a laterally extending floor joist in the cargo hold, such that a lateral load applied to a given mechanical restraint is transferred to at least one laterally extending floor joist.
US08066454B2 Milling tool with cooperating projections and recesses between the cutting insert and the holder
The present invention relates to an indexable cutting insert for an end mill for machining of contours in a workpiece and to a milling tool. The cutting insert is asymmetrical in respect of a line through a hole in the cutting insert. The cutting insert includes two cutting edge portions. Each cutting edge portion comprises of a substantially straight cutting edge and a curved cutting edge along respective intersecting lines between a clearance surface and a chip surface. The curved cutting edges have different lengths. The cutting insert includes recesses in a bottom side of the cutting insert. The recesses are arranged on both sides of and at different distances from the hole of the cutting insert.
US08066453B2 Connection element and a sheet pile wall with connection element therefor
A connection element (10), having a constant cross-section for sheet pile wall components such as sheet piles, features a claw profile (12) for engaging a head strip (44) of a sheet pile wall component (42). The claw profile (12) exhibits a claw-shaped lock (22) formed by two hook strips (18, 20) as well as an attachment profile (14) for engaging in a claw-shaped lock (46) of a sheet pile wall component (42). The attachment profile (14) exhibits a straight neck strip (32) and a head strip (34) of a greater cross-section at its free end. An additional head strip (38) for securing a claw-shaped lock (46) of a sheet pile wall component (42) is formed at the free end section (28) of at least one of the hook strips (20) of the claw profile (12).
US08066452B2 Equipment and method for constructing micropiles in soil, in particular for the anchorage of active anchors
An equipment for constructing micropiles in soil, includes a drilling rod with a bit with at least one nozzle jetting fluid forward, and at least one nozzle jetting fluid substantially orthogonal; an element pulling a protective tube, not adhering to the rod. A corresponding method includes drilling with a drilling rod jetting liquid in front of the bit until reaching stable soil strata; drilling and injecting high-pressure grout with one or more lateral nozzles, while the drilling rod rotates; pulling the protective tube, the tube being inserted to the area of grout injection; when the required depth is reached, the proximal end of the drilling rod is anchored to a plate; when the grout is consolidated, traction is applied to the drilling rod if necessary. Grout is injected into the protective tube.
US08066451B2 Flood/wind resistant building
The proposed invention is a flood and wind resistant building foundation. The building construction consists of an attached superstructure to a buoyant raft foundation with steel pipe anchor and bent steel plate guide assemblies attached at the foundation corners. The raft foundation is uniformly supported on grade during dry conditions, and on water during flood conditions. The corner anchor/guide assemblies resist wind forces during dry conditions, and provide lateral stability during flood conditions. The raft foundation has plumbing trenches and access space that permit continued use of the building utilities during a flood. This building is made with standard, light weight, low technology construction materials and products with a cost comparable to traditional construction.
US08066446B2 Apparatus and method for disabling a ground engaging traction device of a land vehicle
An apparatus and a method for disabling a ground engaging traction device of a land vehicle includes at least one penetrator configured to breach the traction device, an articulated strap configured to move a plurality of times between a retracted arrangement and an extended arrangement, an inflatable bladder configured to deploy the articulated strip to the extended arrangement, and a retractor configured to retract the articulated strip to the retracted arrangement. The articulated strip includes a plurality of plates coupled to the penetrators and a plurality of joints, wherein individual joint couples individual adjacent plates.
US08066442B2 Label supply, label handling method and label printing apparatus
A supply of labels may be configured to facilitate folding. A label handling method involves initiating a label fold prior to a label completely exiting a label exit opening. A label apparatus includes a label obstructing member to promote label folding.
US08066438B2 Camera apparatus
A camera apparatus includes an adjusting member configured to adjust a pan of an optical member included therein; a cover member configured to cover the optical member; and a fixing member fixed to an installation surface and configured to include a first engaging mechanism and a second engaging mechanism for respectively engaging the adjusting member and the cover member thereto. The pan of the optical member is adjusted by respectively engaging a groove or a protrusion of the first engaging mechanism and protrusion or a groove of the adjusting member, and rotating the adjusting member along the groove. The cover member is locked to the fixing member by respectively engaging a groove or a protrusion of the second engaging mechanism and a protrusion or groove of the cover member, and rotating the cover member a given angle along the groove.
US08066435B2 Strut sliding bearing
A thrust sliding bearing (1) includes an upper casing (3) which is made of polyacetal resin and has an annular lower surface (2); a lower casing (5) which is made of a reinforced synthetic resin including, in addition to polyacetal resin, reinforcing fibers such as glass fibers contained in this polyacetal resin, is superposed on the upper casing (3) so as to be rotatable about an axis O of the upper casing (3) in an R direction, and has an annular upper surface (4) opposed to the annular lower surface (2) of the upper casing (3); an annular thrust sliding bearing piece (6) which is made of polyacetal resin and is interposed between the annular lower surface (2) and the annular upper surface (4); and a tubular radial sliding bearing piece (7) made of polyacetal resin.
US08066434B2 Chuck tape with cut tape, its manufacturing method, and packaging bag with chuck tape
A belt-shaped base of a female member of a zipper tape attached to an inner surface of a bag body has a wide portion that extends wider toward an opening of the bag body than a belt-shaped base of the male member. An open tape is disposed on the wide portion and a seal layer is laminated on a surface of the open tape. A first projecting portion is also provided on the wide portion. A second projecting portion is provided on an opening-side end of the belt-shaped base. The projecting portions have a substantially trapezoidal cross section. When the zipper tape is bonded to the bag body and is sealed by the seal layer, a gap is provided between the open tape and the first and the second projecting portions.
US08066432B2 Temperature sensitive films
Temperature-sensitive films that undergo an irreversible change in appearance when the films are heated to a threshold temperature are provided. Also provided are methods for indicating that an object in thermal contact with a temperature-sensitive film has reached a threshold temperature.
US08066428B2 Stop watch including a time indicator
A stop watch (1) includes a time indicator comprising a hand (2), a first scale (31) and a second scale (41). A first part of a time indication is shown by the hand (2) on the first scale (31) and a second part of said time indication is shown by said second scale (41) in combination with said first scale (31). The first scale (31) is fixed and said second scale (41) is movably mounted around said first scale (31). The first part of said time indication corresponds to seconds of a duration counted by said stop watch (1), and the second part of said time indication corresponds to tenths of seconds of said duration.
US08066420B2 Aroma diffusing night lamp system having an angle-adjustable electric plug
An aroma diffusing night lamp system having the characteristics of high level of safety and installation angle adjustability is disclosed to include a lamp socket, a light emitting device mounted in the top side of the lamp socket, an electric plug rotatably coupled to the lamp socket and a lampshade surrounding the light emitting device and having a top trough that holds an aromatic substance that gives off a pleasant smell when heated by heat energy from the light emitting device during its operation.
US08066417B2 Light emitting diode-light guide coupling apparatus
Different arrangements for improving the coupling-in efficiency between an LED assembly and a light guide are disclosed. In a first arrangement, a substantially planar end of a light guide is seated on a perimeter wall of a support that encloses a LED assembly, and a reflecting surface enhances coupling efficiency of a light guide. Alternative arrangements use a separate coupler disposed between the LED assembly and the light guide, which coupler has a paraboloid or aspheroid conformation to develop substantially collimated light that is directed into the light guide. The cavity around the LED assembly and within the coupler, may be air or a material having an index of refraction that closely matches the index of refraction of the light guide material.
US08066416B2 Head lamp assembly and accent lighting therefor
A head lamp assembly having a main functional head lamp and a UV LED light source configured to direct UV light through a decorative accent light pipe is provided. The light pipe extends at least partially about the functional head lamp, wherein the light pipe has a phosphor coated surface to convert the UV light traveling through the light pipe into visible, luminous light. The visible light is emitted from the light pipe to provide the desired decorative appearance about the functional head lamp.
US08066414B2 LED lamp
An LED lamp has a lamp base and a support connected to the lamp base, on which at least one LED is mounted, the support including at least one hollow element, each with at least two air passage openings to permit an air flow through a cavity of at least one hollow element.
US08066403B2 Modular lighting arrays
Apparatus, systems, architectures, and methods provide interlocked modular lighting array units to operate as a single large light source. The modular lighting array units may be connected by a network, and the modular lighting array units may communicate and send and receive control or status signals. In some embodiments, the signals may correspond to status of light sources or LEDs, lighting functions, effects routines, and various other signals of communication.
US08066397B2 Light pen
First and second magnets of a light pen according to the present invention are used for replacing a conventional spring to be a switch structure of the light pen. Whereby, the elastic fatigue problem is not yielded, the switch structure is enabled to be more durable and dependable and can be used as a switch structure for a light pen whose stroke between two electric contact points from a separation state to a contact state is shorter.
US08066396B2 Headlamp lighting device
Various lighting devices are provided which may be used to advantageously illuminate areas of interest in a secure, convenient manner. In one example, a lighting device includes a headlamp. The headlamp includes a base, a body, and a light source. The base includes two support members and an aperture in each of the support members. The body is secured to the base through the apertures and is adapted to rotate relative to the base. The light source is in the body and positioned substantially between the two support members. The light source is adapted to rotate with the body relative to the base to adjust an angle of light emitted by the light source. As another example, related methods are also provided.
US08066395B2 Lighting device for display devices, liquid crystal display device, and light source lamp
A display device comprising: a display panel including a display region; a plurality of light source lamps arranged to emit light toward the display region, each of the plurality of the light source lamps including a folded portion or a curved portion located at least partially outside of the display region and arranged along to an edge of the display panel; and a reflective surface underlying the light source lamps, the reflective surface including a first region with a first reflectance located in an area extending along said edge of the display panel and outside of the display region, and a second region with a second reflectance higher than the first reflectance.
US08066390B2 Antiglare film, antireflection film, polarizing plate and image display device
An antiglare film includes: a transparent support; and an antiglare layer containing a light-transmitting particle and a light-transmitting resin, wherein the light-transmitting particle has a structure including a core particle and a shell layer, each of the core particle and the shell layer contains an organic polymer, the shell layer has a thickness of from 10 to 2,000 nm, the core particle has a refractive index of from 1.54 to 1.65, and the shell layer has a refractive index of from 1.46 to 1.53.