最新美国发明专利第2012-04-24期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US08164009B2	Control knob which operates multiple systems A control knob capable of operating multiple systems has a first rotational body and a second rotational body coaxially arranged, and a shaft connected to the second rotational body. Opposite the shaft, a movable body is moved axially in response to rotation of the first rotational body. Engaging units have concaves or convexes, for example, similar to teeth. The engaging units are provided on the shaft or the movable body. An engaged unit is elastically biased toward one of the engaging units, and engages the concaves or convexes. In use, the control knob may be configured to permit selection of a function by rotation of the first rotational body, and to permit adjustment of the function by rotation of the second rotational body.
US08164008B2	Electrical apparatus A cable is sandwiched between a first inner wall surface of a peripheral-wall-side pressing wall portion and a first inner wall surface of a cap-side pressing wall portion, between a second inner wall surface of the peripheral-wall-side pressing wall portion and a second wall surface of the cap-side pressing wall portion, and between a third inner wall surface of the peripheral-wall-side pressing wall portion and a third inner wall surface of the cap-side pressing wall portion to crank the cable to form a cranked portion of the cable. The peripheral-all-side pressing wall portion and the cap-side pressing wall portion sandwich the cranked portion therebetween. Thus, defective soldering may be prevented between a plurality of lead wires and a core-wire soldered portion to which core wires of the lead wires are soldered and connected.
US08164001B2	Multilayer printed circuit board A multilayer printed circuit board includes an inner magnetic layer essentially consisting of magnetic material. The inner magnetic layer may be formed by an action of chemical bond or van der Waals force. The inner magnetic layer may comprise a plurality of magnetic units, each of which provides magnetism, and may be formed by magnetically coupling the magnetic units with each other by using a strong interaction. The inner magnetic layer may essentially consist of a ferrite film. The ferrite film may be formed directly on the inner conductive layer by means of an electroless plating method. The ferrite film may essentially consist of an oxide metal composition, the metal composition being represented by the formula of FeaNibZncCod, where: a+b+c+d=3.0; 2.1≦a≦2.7; 0.1≦b≦0.3; 0.1≦c≦0.7; and 0≦d≦0.15.
US08163998B2	Electrical busway flange end stub A flange end stub for an electrical busway system is provided. The flange end stub includes a flange plate having a first and second tab extending perpendicular to a first surface. A pair of joint side plates is coupled to the first and second tab with one or more conductors extending through the flange plate in between the joint side plates. A first and second bracket is coupled in between the joint side plates on either side of the conductors. Covers are mounted to the first and second brackets and extend over the conductors and any joint assembly that is attached. The covers and brackets cooperate to provide ingress protection.
US08163996B2	Cable joint A cable joint and a method of assembling a cable joint include at least two cables having inner conducting elements secured to each other at a point of connection. At least one of the cables is a paper-insulated lead cable including paper insulation impregnated with oil. A deformable elastomeric sleeve covers the point of connection. A flexible tape is wound about the elastomeric sleeve. The flexible tape restrains expansion of the elastomeric sleeve resulting from expansion of the oil in the paper insulation of the paper-insulated lead cable.
US08163995B2	Method for applying insulation with respect to an electrical box and an electrical box for receiving insulation with respect thereto An electrical box includes a top side wall, a right side wall, a bottom side wall, a left side wall, and a rear side wall. At least one check valve is disposed in an opening through at least one of the top side wall, the right side wall, the bottom side wall, the left side wall, or the rear side wall. The check valve defines a central opening through which insulation may be introduced to fill an air gap at least one of behind or around the electrical box. A method for introducing insulation through the electrical box also is described.
US08163993B2	Apparatus, method, and system for grounding support structures using an integrated grounding electrode Disclosed herein are apparatus, methods, and systems for grounding outdoor light poles, as well as other structures, which may be exposed to lightning or other adverse electrical effects and may require a low impedance path to ground. Inventive aspects include a combination of apparatus integral to the pole or other structure and installation considerations whereby the ease of installation, reduction of onsite installation error, and reduction of impedance may be tailored to each installation. An apparatus can include a pre-installed earth grounding electrode at the lower end of the pole or structure to be inserted into the earth. A method can include installing an earth grounding electrode to/on/in a lower end of a pole or structure prior to insertion into the earth.
US08163991B2	Headphone metronome A user can select to play a metronome of the user's voice or a default which is played on headphones at a user-established tempo.
US08163985B1	Maize variety inbred PH12K9 A novel maize variety designated PH12K9 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH12K9 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH12K9 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH12K9 or a locus conversion of PH12K9 with another maize variety.
US08163984B1	Maize variety X1102K A novel maize variety designated X1102K and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing maize variety X1102K with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X1102K through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X1102K, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X1102K. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X1102K and to the maize varieties derived by the use of those methods.
US08163980B2	Polynucleotides encoding isoprenoid modifying enzymes and methods of use thereof The present invention provides isolated nucleic acids comprising nucleotide sequences encoding isoprenoid modifying enzymes, as well as recombinant vectors comprising the nucleic acids. The present invention further provides genetically modified host cells comprising a subject nucleic acid or recombinant vector. The present invention further provides a transgenic plant comprising a subject nucleic acid. The present invention further provides methods of producing an isoprenoid compound, the method generally involving culturing a subject genetically modified host cell under conditions that permit synthesis of an isoprenoid compound modifying enzyme encoded by a subject nucleic acid.
US08163976B2	Compositions and methods relating to transgenic plants and cellulosic ethanol production Transgenic lignocellulosic plants are provided according to embodiments of the present invention, the transgenic plants transformed with an expression cassette encoding a protein operably linked to a signal peptide which targets the protein to a cell wall of the transgenic plant, where at least 5% of the total amino acid residues of the protein are tyrosine, lysine, serine, threonine or cysteine. Methods of increasing lignin-protein bonds in a lignocellulosic plant are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include expressing a recombinant nucleic acid in a lignocellulosic plant, the recombinant nucleic acid encoding a protein operably linked to a signal peptide which targets the protein to the cell wall of a plant, where at least 5% of the total amino acid residues of the protein are tyrosine, lysine, serine, threonine or cysteine.
US08163972B2	Zero-valent metallic treatment system and its application for removal and remediation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) PCBs are removed from contaminated media using a treatment system including zero-valent metal particles and an organic hydrogen donating solvent. The treatment system may include a weak acid in order to eliminate the need for a coating of catalytic noble metal on the zero-valent metal particles. If catalyzed zero-valent metal particles are used, the treatment system may include an organic hydrogen donating solvent that is a non-water solvent. The treatment system may be provided as a “paste-like” system that is preferably applied to natural media and ex-situ structures to eliminate PCBs.
US08163969B2	Alkylation process using a catalyst comprising rare earth containing zeolites and a hydrogenation metal An improved alkylation process utilizing a solid-acid catalyst comprising a rare earth containing zeolite and a hydrogenation metal is disclosed.
US08163966B2	Aromatics processing catalyst system This disclosure relates to a catalyst system adapted for processing aromatic feedstreams comprising C9+ aromatic feedstock to produce at least one xylene.
US08163964B2	Processes for producing pentafluoropropenes and certain azeotropes comprising HF and certain halopropenes of the formula C3 HClF4 A process is disclosed for making CF3CF═CHF or a mixture thereof with CF2═CFCHF2. The process involves (i) contacting CH2ClCF2CF3, and optionally CH2FCF2CClF2, in a reaction zone in the presence of a catalytically effective amount of dehydrofluorination catalyst to produce CHCl═CFCF3, and, if CH2FCF2CClF2 is present, CHF═CFCClF2; (ii) contacting CHCl═CFCF3, and CHF═CFCClF2, if any, formed in (i) with hydrogen fluoride (HF) in a reaction zone, optionally in the presence of a fluorination catalyst, to produce a product mixture comprising CHF═CFCF3, and, if CHF═CFCClF2 is present, CF2═CFCHF2; and (iii) recovering CF3CF═CHF, or a mixture thereof with CF2═CFCHF2, from the product mixture formed in (ii); and optionally (iv) separating at least a portion of any CF3CF═CHF in the product mixture formed in (ii) from the CF2═CFCHF2 in the product mixture formed in (ii). Also disclosed is an azeotropic composition involving CHCl═CFCF3, CHF═CFCClF2 and HF.
US08163958B2	Levodopa prodrugs, and compositions and uses thereof Prodrugs of levodopa, methods of making prodrugs of levodopa, methods of using prodrugs of levodopa, and compositions of prodrugs of levodopa are disclosed.
US08163956B2	Inhibitors of GLYT1 transporters A compound of the formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, Ar, A, n and m are defined herein, is disclosed as a GlyT1 inhibitor; pharmaceutical compositions containing the compound of the formula (I) are also disclosed as are their use in medicine, for example in the treatment of schizophrenia.
US08163948B2	Processes for producing transition metal amido and imido compounds Processes are provided for producing transition metal amidos and/or imidos. In methods according to this invention, at least one halogenated transition metal, an amine compound and a solvent are combined, followed by the addition of an alkylated metal or a Grignard reagent to produce the transition metal amide and/or imido.
US08163947B2	Cyanation catalyst and method for producing optically active cyanhydrin compound using the same The present invention can provide a cyanation catalyst represented by the general formula (I): (in the formula (I), R1 through R4 are each an optionally substituted hydrocarbon group; R1 and R2 and/or R3 and R4 may form an optionally substituted carbon chain ring; R5 through R8 are each a hydrogen atom, or an optionally substituted hydrocarbon group; R5 and R6 and/or R7 and R8 may form an optionally substituted carbon chain ring; R9 and R10 are each a hydrogen atom, or an optionally substituted hydrocarbon group; W, X and Y each represent an optionally substituted binding chain; X and/or Y may be non-existent; M represents a metal or a metal ion; and ligands of M may each be located at any position).
US08163945B2	Extraction of oil from food wastes Raw material such as food waste is scanned by a metal detector (11) and objects or containments removed, the food waste is then ground or macerated by a disintegrator (13), and passed to a live steam kettle (14), then passed to an in-line heater (15) wherein it is raised to and maintained at 80% for 20 minutes. The product is pumped to a three-phase decanter centrifuge (16) where it is separated into solids, water waste and tallow (oily product). The latter is pumped to storage tank (20), using a centrifugal pump (21), while water waste is discharged to effluent while solids are discharged to a container (18).
US08163941B2	Method for production of optically active epoxy compound, and complex used therefor and process for producing the same There is provided a method for industrially producing optically active epoxy compounds by asymmetrically epoxidizing prochiral unsaturated compounds with an oxidant using as a catalyst a single substance or a di-μ-oxo dimer derived therefrom represented by any of the following formulae (I), (I′), (II), (II′), (III), (III′), (IV), and (IV′): [wherein R1s are independently an alkyl group or an aryl group; R2s are independently an alkyl group or an aryl group; R3s are independently an alkyl group or an aryl group, provided that two R3s may be bonded with each other to form a ring; R4s are independently a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, a nitro group, or a cyano group; M is TiY2 (Y is Cl, alkoxide, or a μ-oxo ligand)].
US08163940B2	Method for preparation of amorphous, anhydrous crystalline or hydrated crystalline docetaxel This invention is directed to a method for the preparation of docetaxel having an amorphous, anhydrous crystalline, or hydrated crystalline structure. In accordance with the invention, highly pure amorphous, anhydrous crystalline, or hydrated crystalline docetaxel can be produced with a high yield by using a solvent precipitation method, colloid formation method, etc.
US08163937B2	Process for preparing (1R,2S,5S)-N-[(1S)-3-amino-1-(cyclobutylmethyl)-2,3-dioxopropyl]-3-[(2S)-2-[[[(1,1-dimethylethyl)amino]-carbonyl]amino]-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutyl]-6,6-dimethyl-3-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-2-carboxamide The present invention relates also to a process for the preparation of intermediate compounds useful in preparing the compounds of Formula (I) using the process of Scheme (II).
US08163928B2	Heteroaryl substituted benzothiazoles The present invention relates to novel heteroaryl substituted benzothiazole derivatives, precursors thereof, and therapeutic uses for such compounds, having the structural formula (I) below: [Chemical formula should be inserted here. Please see paper copy] and to their pharmaceutically acceptable salt, compositions and methods of use. Furthermore, the invention relates to novel heteroaryl substituted benzothiazole derivatives that are suitable for imaging amyloid deposits in living patients, their compositions, methods of use and processes to make such compounds. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method of imaging amyloid deposits in brain in vivo to allow antemortem diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease as well as measuring clinical efficacy of Alzheimer's disease therapeutic agents.
US08163927B2	Azabicyclo [3.1.0] hexane derivatives as modulators of dopamine D3 receptors The present invention relates to certain azabicyclic compounds of formula (I)′: wherein the several groups are defined herein and are modulators of dopamine D3 receptors, e.g. to treat drug dependency, as antipsychotic agents, to treat obsessive compulsive spectrum disorders, or premature ejaculation.
US08163922B2	Process for the preparation of 8-hydroxy-5-[(1R)-1-hydroxy-2[[(1R)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-methylethyl]amino]ethyl]-2(1H)-quinolinone monohydrochloride 8-hydroxy-5-[(1R)-1-hydroxy-2[[(1R)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-methylethyl]amino]ethyl]-2(1H)-quinolinone monohydrochloride of formula (I) may be conveniently prepared in a diastereomeric pure form from optically pure precursors that are readily available by simple resolution and asymmetric reduction.
US08163919B2	Imidazopyridinyl benzamide mitotic kinesin inhibitors Compounds useful for treating cellular proliferative diseases and disorders by modulating the activity of one or more mitotic kinesins are disclosed.
US08163918B2	Azaindazole compounds as CCR1 receptor antagonists Disclosed are compounds of the formula (I), useful for treating a variety of diseases and disorders that are mediated or sustained through the activity of CCR1 including autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Also disclosed are intermediates thereof, and methods of making and methods of using same.
US08163917B2	Azaindoles useful as inhibitors of Janus kinases The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of protein kinases, particularly of JAK family kinases. 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.
US08163915B2	4-substituted azaadamantane derivatives and methods of use thereof The invention relates to compounds that are 4-substituted azaadamantane derivatives, compositions comprising such compounds, and methods of using such compounds and compositions.
US08163913B2	Forms of tiotropium bromide and processes for preparation thereof This invention relates to novel crystalline forms of tiotropium bromide, processes for preparing them, and their use in pharmaceutical formulations.
US08163912B2	Berberine compounds and processes for the preparation of berberine compounds The invention is directed to berberine compounds and processes for the preparation of berberine compounds through an intramolecular Bischler-Napieralski cyclization.
US08163910B2	Amide-substituted xanthene dyes The present invention provides amide-substituted xanthene fluorescent dyes and reagent for the introduction of phosphonate or sulfo groups into the fluorescent dyes.
US08163907B2	Dihydropyridine calcium antagonist compounds, preparation methods, and medical uses thereof A dihydropyridine (DHP) calcium antagonist compound and its preparation method and medical use are related to preparation methods of compounds of general formulas (I) and (II) as shown below and their pharmaceutical salts and applications for treating cardiovascular diseases, and R1 represents a substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic, aromatic ring or aralkyl group, and the substituent may be C1-C4 alkyl, C1-C4 alkoxyl, halogen, cyano, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxyl, methylthio, nitro, amino or hydroxyl group; R2 represents a C1-C8 alkyl group; R3 and R4 are the same or different, and each represents a hydrogen, halogen, cyano, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxyl, methylthio, nitro or amino group or a C1-C4 alkyl, C1-C4 alkoxyl, C1-C4 alkenyl, or C1-C4 alkinyl group; R5 and R6 are the same or different, and each represents a C1-C4 alkyl group; X represents O, S or a single bond; m=0-6, n=1-6, and m and n are the same or different.
US08163904B2	Salts of 4-methyl-N-[3-(4-methyl-imidazol-1-yl)-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl]-3-(4-pyridin-3-yl-pyrimidin-2-ylamino)-Benzamide Salts of 4-methyl-N-[3-(4-methyl-imidazol-1-yl)-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl]-3-(4-pyridin-3-yl-pyrimidin-2-ylamino)-benzamide are prepared by various processes.
US08163903B2	Process for the preparation of N-[5-(3-dimethylamino-acryloyl)-2-fluoro-phenyl]-N-methyl-acetamide The present invention relates to a new process for the preparation of N-[5-(3-dimethylamino-acryloyl)-2-fluorophenyl]-N-methyl-acetamide (I) in a high yield and high purity, which is an intermediate in the synthesis of compounds with affinity for GABAA receptor. In this process, N-(5-acetyl-2-fluorophenyl)-N-methyl-acetamide (VI) is reacted with an excess of N,N-dimethylformamide dimethyl acetal (NNDMF-DMA). The present invention also provides a new process for the preparation of a compound with affinity for GABAA receptor, N-{2-fluoro-5-[3-(thiophene)-2-carbonyl-pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7-yl]phenyl}-N-methyl-acetamide (II), which comprises the following steps: a) methylation of N-(5-acetyl-2-fluorophenyl)-N-acetamide (IV) with a methyl sulfonate, b) reaction of the resulting compound (VI) with NNDMF-DMA, and c) reaction of the resulting compound (I) with (5-amino-1H-pirazol-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl-methanone (III) in glacial acetic acid. The present invention also relates to new intermediate (VI).
US08163902B2	Prodrugs of 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds and their uses The present disclosure provides prodrugs of biologically active 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds, salts and hydrates of the prodrugs, compositions comprising the prodrugs, intermediates and methods for synthesizing the prodrugs and methods of using the prodrugs in a variety of applications.
US08163896B1	Bioinformatically detectable group of novel regulatory genes and uses thereof The present invention relates to a first group of novel genes, here identified as genomic address messenger or GAM genes, and a second group of novel operon-like genes, here identified as genomic record or GR genes. GAM genes selectively inhibit translation of known ‘target’ genes, many of which are known to be involved in various diseases. Nucleic acid molecules are provided respectively encoding 200 GAM genes, and 1096 GR genes, as are vectors and probes both comprising the nucleic acid molecules, and methods and systems for detecting GAM and GR genes and specific functions and utilities thereof, for detecting expression of GAM and GR genes, and for selectively enhancing and selectively inhibiting translation of the respective target genes thereof.
US08163895B2	Compositions for use in identification of orthopoxviruses Oligonucleotide primers and compositions and kits containing the same for rapid identification of orthopoxviruses by amplification of a segment of viral nucleic acid followed by molecular mass analysis are provided.
US08163891B2	Process for the preparation of poly(alkoxylated) oligonucleotides A process for the preparation of a poly(alkoxylated) oligonucleotide is provided. The process comprises reacting an oligonucleotide which has been purified by ultrafiltration with a poly(alkoxide) thereby to form a poly(alkoxylated) oligonucleotide. The poly(alkoxyalted) oligonucleotide may be separated from non-poly(alkoxyalted) oligonucleotide by ultrafiltration under denaturing conditions, such as the presence of organic solvents, for example, ethanol; the presence of urea; the addition of chaotropic salts, for example perchlorate and guanidinium salts; the presence of formamide; and the application of heat, for example a temperature of up to about 70° C.
US08163888B2	Method of targeting specific cell populations using cell-binding agent maytansinoid conjugates linked via a non-cleavable linker, said conjugates and methods of making said conjugates The present invention discloses a method for targeting maytansinoids to a selected cell population, the method comprising contacting a cell population or tissue suspected of containing the selected cell population with a cell-binding agent maytansinoid conjugate, wherein one or more maytansinoids is covalently linked to the cell-binding agent via a non-cleavable linker and the cell-binding agent binds to cells of the selected cell population.
US08163883B2	Gene encoding labyrinthin, a marker for cancer A cDNA molecule that encodes a protein designated Labyrinthin (Lab) isolated and its nucleotide sequence is determined. The protein, or peptides derived from the protein, are markers useful to define novel classes of cancers. Diagnostic assays for these cancers use antibodies to Lab or nucleotide probes that hybridize with the lab gene or a fragment therefrom. Vaccines useful either to prevent recurrence of cancers in subjects who test positive for Lab (or lab), or to prevent initial occurrence of cancer, use proteins or peptides derived from Lab. Expression of Lab via immunogenic assays is used to monitor effects of cancer treatments. Antisense molecules against lab are used in treatments. Sense molecules of lab are used to restore lost lab function in diseased normal cells, for example, gland cells.
US08163881B2	Immunoglobulin molecules with improved characteristics The present invention provides for IgG1 molecules with improved characteristics. In particular, substitution mutations are provided that, in combination, facilitate improved placental transfer, improved serum half-life and improved FcRn binding. Substitution mutations are also provided, that in combination, can be used to block FcRn function and thereby increase the clearance rates of other (endogenous or exogenous) IgGs, block placental transport of IgGs and have increased affinity/reduced pH dependence for FcRn binding.
US08163879B2	Fusion molecules and IL-15 variants The instant invention provides soluble fusion protein complexes and IL-15 variants that have therapeutic and diagnostic use, and methods for making the such proteins. The instant invention additionally provides methods of stimulating or suppressing immune responses in a mammal using the fusion protein complexes and IL-15 variants of the invention.
US08163876B2	DNA sequences, vectors and proteins of avian influenza hemagglutinin The subject invention provides novel amino acid sequences (including a consensus sequence) of the Avian Influenza A virus hemagglutinin protein. These newly constructed genes are designed to provide a broader spectrum of activity across the serotype family thus providing a basis for a vaccine that has broad heterologous disease protection. The novel genes have been further improved by the addition of strategic glycosylation sites into the amino acids sequences that they encode. These genes can also, optionally, be codon optimized for plant expression, inserted into the appropriate vector and cloned into plants for expression. Polypeptides produced by recombinant host cells or transgenic plants can also be used as source of antigen for the formulation of vaccines for the control of influenza in susceptible individuals. Additionally, transgenic plant material may also be used as source of antigen for the formulation of vaccines for the control of influenza in susceptible individuals.
US08163871B2	Enzymatic reactions in the presence of keto acids Conversion in vitro of X-Gly to X-alpha-hydroxy-Gly or X-NH2 (X being a peptide or any other compound having a carbonyl group capable of forming a covalent bond with glycine) is accomplished enzymatically in the presence of keto acids, or salts or esters thereof, to provide a good yield without the necessity of catalase or similar enzymatic reaction enhancers. Peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM) is a preferred enzyme for catalyzing the conversion. Alternatively, peptidylglycine α-hydroxylating monooxygenase (PHM) is utilized to convert X-Gly to X-alpha-hydroxy-Gly which may be recovered, or optionally may be simultaneously or sequentially converted to an amide by either a Lewis base or action of the enzyme peptidyl α-hydroxyglycine α-amidating lyase (PAL). Both PHM and PAL are functional domains of PAM.
US08163868B2	Reduction of whitening of polymer parts This invention relates to a process for producing non-whitening molded articles of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) with reduced whitening by treating the articles with heat.
US08163862B2	Ophthalmic and otorhinolaryngological device materials Disclosed are soft, high refractive index, acrylic device materials. The materials contain a hydrophilic side-chain macromer for glistening resistance.
US08163861B2	Beta-amino ester compounds and uses thereof Hair treatment compositions are disclosed comprising a β-amino ester compound in a cosmetically acceptable vehicle, such as a spray or cream. In embodiments, the compounds include a polybutadiene moiety. Methods of treating hair with the compositions to impart volume, texture and definition are also disclosed.
US08163859B2	Copolymer comprising alkene, acrylate and unsaturated organic acid, and method for preparing the same The present invention provides a copolymer that includes at least one alkene monomer, at least one acrylate monomer and at least one the unsaturated organic acid monomer having one or more double bonds, and a method of manufacturing the same.
US08163858B2	Copolymers for barriers A polyvinylidene difluoride copolymer with a fluoroolefin selected from 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, 1,1,3,3,3-pentafluoropropene, 2-chloro-pentafluoropropene, hexafluoropropylene, trifluoroethylene, chlorotrifluoroethylene, 3,3,3-trifluoro-2-trifluoromethylpropene and a mixture thereof, wherein the stoichiometry of the co-monomers defines the barrier properties of the copolymer. Such polymers include moisture barrier copolymers and oxygen barrier copolymer. Processes for preparing such moisture barrier copolymers and oxygen barrier copolymers are also provided.
US08163855B2	Method for bulk polymerization A method for polymerizing conjugated diene monomer into polydienes, the method comprising: polymerizing conjugated diene monomer within a liquid-phase polymerization mixture that includes conjugated diene monomer, a lanthanide-based catalyst system, dicyclopentadiene or substituted dicyclopentadiene, and optionally organic solvent, with the proviso that the organic solvent, if present, is less than about 20% by weight based on the total weight of the polymerization mixture.
US08163852B2	Resist polymer and method for producing the polymer Solving problems in the prior art, provided are a resist polymer which is small in lot-to-lot, reactor-to-reactor and scale-to-scale variations, and contains no high polymer, is excellent in solubility and storage stability, and is suitable for fine pattern formation, and a method for production thereof. The present invention provides the resist polymer at least having a repeating unit having a structure which is decomposed by an acid to become soluble in an alkali developer and a repeating unit having a polar group to enhance adhesion to a substrate, characterized in that a peak area of a high molecular weight component (high polymer) with molecular weight of 100,000 or more is 0.1% or less based on an entire peak area in a molecular weight distribution determined, by gel permeation chromatography (GPC).
US08163848B2	Antistatic poly(hydroxyalkanoic acid) compositions Disclosed are toughened, antistatic resin composition and an article comprising the composition wherein the composition comprises or consists essentially of poly(hydroxyalkanoic acid), such as polylactic acid; an impact modifier comprising an ethylene copolymer; and an ion conducting polymer.
US08163845B2	Biaxially oriented electrical insulating film The invention relates to a biaxially oriented electrical insulating film which contains a mixture from a polypropylene P1 and a polypropylene P2 which is different therefrom. The polypropylene P1 is a linear polypropylene and has an Mw/Mn>5 and a mesopentadene isotactic index of at least 95% and the polypropylene P2 has a long-chain branching.
US08163843B2	Crystalline copolymers having high solubility in non-halogenated solvents, and their use A description is given of the preparation of high molecular mass, crystalline copolyesters with high solubility in non-halogenated and non-aromatic solvents, and of their use in adhesives.
US08163837B2	Aqueous polymer dispersions and products from those dispersions A method for forming a heat sealable coating on a substrate, wherein the substrate is formed from at least one oriented polymer is shown. The method includes depositing an aqueous polymer dispersion on the substrate, wherein the aqueous polymer dispersion includes (A) at least one thermoplastic resin; (B) at least one dispersing agent; and (C) water; wherein the dispersion has a pH of less than 12, and drying the dispersion to form a first layer.
US08163833B2	Melt adhesive based on metallocene catalyzed olefin-α-olefin copolymers Melt adhesive containing 5 to 40 wt.-% of at least one ethylene-based copolymer and at least one C3 to C20-α-olefin obtained through metallocene-catalyzed polymerization, 10 to 65 wt.-% of at least one tackifying resin, 0 to 35 wt.-% of a plasticizer, 0.01 to 30 wt.-% additives and additional ingredients selected from stabilizers, adhesion promoters, fillers or pigments, waxes and/or other polymers, wherein the total should amount to 100%, characterized in that copolymer A is a block copolymer that exhibits a substantially even elastic behavior in the range of 0° C. to 25° C., measured as the ratio of the storage modulus E′ according to (E′0C−E′25C)/E′25C<1.5.
US08163830B2	Nanoclays in polymer compositions, articles containing same, processes of making same, and systems containing same A composition includes a bismaleimide triazine (BT) compound with a nanoclay composited therewith. A mounting substrate includes polymer compound with a nanoclay composited therewith to form a core for the mounting substrate. A process includes melt blending a polymer such as BT with a nanoclay and forming a core. A process includes dissolving a monomer such as BT with a nanoclay and forming a core. A system includes a nanoclay dispersed in a polymer matrix and a microelectronic device mounted on the mounting substrate that includes the nanoclay dispersed in the polymer matrix.
US08163827B2	White light diffusing thermoplastic composition The invention relates to a translucent, white, light-diffusing thermoplastic composition containing both white pigment and refractive index-matched particles. The blend of pigment and particles provides a synergistic effect, resulting in a very high luminous transmission and good diffusion properties.
US08163826B2	Polymeric acid precursor compositions and methods A composition is formed from a polymeric acid precursor, such as polylactic acid (PLA), that is a least partially dissolved within a polymer dispersing solvent. An emulsion may be from polymeric acid precursor that is at least partially dissolved within a solvent and a liquid that is substantially immiscible with the solvent. In certain cases, the molecular weight of the polymeric acid precursor may be reduced in forming the solution. The solution may be used in treating a formation penetrated by a wellbore.
US08163825B2	Triglyceride plasticizers having low average levels of branching and process of making the same Triglyceride PVC plasticizers can be produced by recovery of C5 to C10 aldehydes having low average levels of branching from a hydroformylation product, oxidizing the aldehydes with oxygen and/or air to form an acid, recovery of the resulting acid, and esterification with glycerol. Plasticizer compositions including such products or linear triglycerides combined with a secondary plasticizer and articles made therefrom are disclosed.
US08163822B2	Polycarbonate composition with improved melt-flowability The invention relates to a polycarbonate composition with improved melt-flowability together with good optical properties and together with good hydrolysis resistance.
US08163816B2	Production process of liquid composition, image forming process and image forming apparatus A process for producing a liquid composition including a pigment and a stimuli-responsive dispersant, the pigment being contained in the liquid composition in a dispersed state, the process including (1) obtaining a solution dissolving the pigment in a first solvent and (2) mixing the solution with a second solvent, wherein the stimuli-responsive dispersant is contained in at least one solvent of the first and second solvents. The first solvent is an aprotic solvent. The second solvent is water or an aqueous solution.
US08163808B2	Acetylene enhanced conversion of syngas to Fischer-Tropsch hydrocarbon products A method is disclosed for converting syngas to Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) hydrocarbon products. A synthesis gas including carbon monoxide and hydrogen gas is provided to a F-T reactor. Also, acetylene is supplied to the F-T reactor. The ratio of the volume of acetylene to the volume of synthesis gas is at least 0.01. The synthesis gas and acetylene are reacted under suitable reaction conditions and in the presence of a catalyst to produce F-T hydrocarbon products. The F-T hydrocarbon products are then recovered from the reactor. The synthesis gas and acetylene may be provided in a combined feed stream or introduced separately into the reactor. The acetylene enhanced syngas conversion in a F-T reactor results in the synthesis of F-T products which have a tighter distribution of intermediate length carbon products than do F-T products synthesized according to conventional methods.
US08163806B2	Controlled release of biologically active compounds from multi-armed oligomers The present invention relates to the discovery of biodegradable multi-armed oligomers wherein the end groups of these oligomers have been functionalized with biologically active molecules. The resultant multi-armed oligomers end-functionalized with biologically active molecules have a controllable degradation profile. The hydrolytic degradation of oligomers of the present invention releases the biologically active compound as such with no change in native chemical structure.
US08163804B2	Composition for preventing harmful organisms There is a harmful organism that cannot be controlled or is difficult to be controlled with the use of a single agent of a compound represented by the general formula (1) according to the invention, an insecticide, a miticide or a fungicide. Accordingly, an object of the invention is to provide a composition for preventing harmful organisms for efficiently controlling such a harmful organism.That is, the invention is directed to a composition for preventing harmful organisms, characterized by comprising the compound represented by the general formula (1) and other insecticides, miticides or fungicides as active ingredients, wherein, in the formula, A1, A2, A3 and A4 independently represent a carbon atom, a nitrogen atom or an oxidized nitrogen atom, G1 and G2 independently represent an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom; R1 and R2 independently represent a hydrogen atom or a C1 to C4 alkyl group; Xs may be the same or different and represent a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or a trifluoromethyl group; Q1 represents a substituent such as a phenyl group or a heterocyclic group; and Q2 represents a substituent such as a phenyl group or a heterocyclic group.)
US08163803B2	Compounds derived from lidocaine, pharmaceutical compositions, use and method of treatment, prevention or inhibition of disease The present invention relates to lidocaine derived compounds, which present less anesthetic activity than lidocaine itself, but with more anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic activity than said lidocaine as well as pharmaceutical compositions with at least one of these compounds or a salt of those as active principle and to the use of such compositions to treat, prevent or inhibit atopic diseases including asthma, rhinitis, allergic urticaria, chronic lung inflammation associated with eosinophilia, following the example of atopic asthma and chronic intestinal inflammation, as colitis for instance. The pharmaceutical composition may be available in spray form, solution, suspension, emulsion destinated to be applied by nebulization, or in any of the pharmaceutical available forms for oral or injectable use.
US08163799B2	Amido-amine polymer compositions Compounds, polymers, crosslinked polymers and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same may be derived from multi-amine monomers and multi-functional monomers having two or more amine reactive groups. Such compounds, polymers, crosslinked polymers and compositions may be used to treat hyperphosphatemia or to remove ions from the gastrointestinal tract of animals, including humans.
US08163798B2	Methods and devices for providing prolonged drug therapy Methods and devices for maintaining a desired therapeutic drug effect over a prolonged therapy period are provided. In particular, oral dosage forms that release drug within the gastrointestinal tract at an ascending release rate over an extended time period are provided. The dosage forms may additionally comprise an immediate-release dose of drug.
US08163796B1	Treatment of cancer by oxidation-reduction potentiation of cancerostatic dicarbonyls A novel treatment regimen is described for the control and elimination of cancer cell populations including cancer stem cells. The disclosed protocol consists of a pretreatment step followed by a treatment step. The pretreatment step sensitizes cancer cells to apoptosis by altering their intracellular oxidation-reduction state via reduced glutathione depletion. The treatment step involves the sequential administration of a cancerostatic dicarbonyl compound to induce apoptosis. The use of nanoparticle delivery systems further enhances both the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the pretreatment compounds and the cancerostatic dicarbonyls. Since the pretreatment and treatment compounds are carefully selected and delivered, normal cells are not affected and side effects are kept to a minimum.
US08163787B2	Triazolone derivatives A compound represented by the following general formula (1) or salts thereof or hydrates of the foregoing: wherein R1a, R1b, R1c and R1d each independently represent hydrogen, etc.; R2 represents optionally substituted phenyl, etc.; R3 represents optionally substituted C6-10 aryl, etc.; and Z1 and Z2 each independently represent hydrogen.
US08163785B2	Pyrazolo[5,1b]oxazole derivatives as CRF-1 receptor antagonists There are described 4-difluoromethoxyphenyl pyrazolo[5.1-b]oxazole derivatives of Formula I: which are useful as corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) receptor antagonists and as pharmaceuticals.
US08163781B2	Bi-aryl aminotetralines The invention is concerned with the compounds of formula I: and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and esters thereof, wherein R1-R5, A, B, Q, W, and X are defined in the detailed description and claims. In addition, the present invention relates to methods of manufacturing and using the compounds of formula I as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds. The compounds of formula I are antagonists at the CRTH2 receptor and may be useful in treating diseases and disorders associated with that receptor such as asthma.
US08163779B2	Glucokinase activators Compounds of the following formula are provided for use with glucokinase: wherein the variables are as defined herein. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, kits and articles of manufacture comprising such compounds; methods and intermediates useful for making the compounds; and methods of using said compounds.
US08163775B2	Allosteric modulators of metabotropic glutamate receptors The present invention relates to new compounds of formula (I) wherein A, B, P, Q, W, R1 and R2 are defined in the description; invention compounds are useful in the prevention or treatment of central nervous system disorders as well as other disorders modulated by mGluR5 receptors.
US08163774B2	Amide-substituted 8-N-benzimidazoles, method for the production thereof, and use of the same as medicaments The present invention comprises the use of amino-substituted 8-N-benzimidazoles compounds of formula I wherein R3, R4-R5, R11 and R20-R21 are hereinafter defined which display a therapeutically utilizable blood sugar-lowering action. These compounds are intended to be particularly suitable in the treatment of diabetes.
US08163769B2	Antibacterial compounds Antibacterials having formula (I) and salts, prodrugs, and salts of prodrugs thereof, processes for making the compounds and intermediates used in the processes, compositions containing the compounds, and methods of prophylaxis and treatment of bacterial infections using the compounds are disclosed.
US08163767B2	Heterocyclic Janus Kinase 3 inhibitors The invention relates to compound of the formula (I) or its salt, wherein —R1, —R2, —R3, —R4, —R5, -M-, —X— and —Y═ are as defined in the description, their use of as, medicament, the process for their preparation and use for the treatment of JAK3 mediated diseases.
US08163764B2	Skincare methods Disclosed are compositions and methods for skincare, e.g., reducing skin wrinkles and for treating skin disorders.
US08163761B2	Methods and compositions for treating disorders Compounds and compositions for treating disorders related to TRPA1 are described herein.
US08163755B2	Hexahydrooxazinopterine compounds The present invention provides mTOR inhibitors of the formula wherein the variables are as defined herein. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, kits and articles of manufacture comprising such compounds; methods of making the compounds and intermediates thereof; and methods of using the compounds.
US08163751B2	Acylated indanyl amines and their use as pharmaceuticals The present invention relates to acylated indanyl amines according to the general formula (I) wherein R1-R4 have the meanings given in the description, A is CH2, CHOH or CH—(C1-C3-alkyl), B is CH2 or CH—(C1-C3-alkyl), and R5 is an aryl or heteroaryl group, possibly substituted by the substituents listed in the description. These compounds are useful in the upregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and may therefore be useful for the manufacture of medicaments for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, stable or unstable angina pectoris, coronary heart disease, Prinzmetal angina, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, thrombosis, peripheral artery occlusive disease, endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, restenosis, endothelial damage after PTCA, hypertension, essential hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, secondary hypertension, renovascular hypertension, chronic glomerulonephritis, erectile dysfunction, ventricular arrhythmia, diabetes or diabetes complications, nephropathy or retinopathy, angiogenesis, asthma bronchiale, chronic renal failure, cirrhosis of the liver, osteoporosis, restricted memory performance, a restricted ability to learn, or for the lowering of cardiovascular risk of postmenopausal women or after intake of contraceptives.
US08163750B2	Fluorene derivatives, compositions containing the same and use thereof as inhibitors of the protein chaperone HSP 90 The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R2′, L, Het, p and p′ are as defined herein, compositions containing them, and their use as medicinal products.
US08163749B2	Six-membered heterocycles useful as serine protease inhibitors The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I): or a stereoisomer, tautomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate form thereof, wherein the variables A, B, R3 and R11 are as defined herein. The compounds of Formula (I) are useful as selective inhibitors of serine protease enzymes of the coagulation cascade and/or contact activation system; for example thrombin, factor Xa, factor XIa, factor IXa, factor VIIa and/or plasma kallikrein. In particular, it relates to compounds that are selective factor XIa inhibitors or dual inhibitors of fXIa and plasma kallikrein. This invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and methods of treating thromboembolic and/or inflammatory disorders using the same.
US08163745B2	HIV inhibiting 5-(hydroxymethylene and aminomethylene) substituted pyrimidines This invention concerns 5-(hydroxymethylene and aminomethylene)pyrimidine derivatives having HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) replication inhibiting properties, to the preparation thereof and to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds.
US08163744B2	Tetrahydro-isoquinolin-1-ones for the treatment of cancer The present invention provides a compound selected from compounds of formula I as ligand binding to the HDM2 protein, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation, and having therapeutic utility in cancer therapy. Compounds of formula (I) can be used as therapeutics for treating stroke, myocardial infarction, ischemia, multi-organ failure, spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's Disease, injury from ischemic events, heart valvular degenerative disease Moreover, compounds of formula (I) can be used to decrease the side effects from cytotoxic cancer agents and to treat viral infections.
US08163743B2	4-carboxamide indazole derivatives useful as inhibitors of PI3-kinases The invention is directed to certain novel compounds. Specifically, the invention is directed to compounds of formula (I) and salts thereof. The compounds of the invention are inhibitors of P13-kinase activity.
US08163732B2	Tricyclic heteroaryl compounds useful as inhibitors of Janus kinase The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of protein kinases, particularly of JAK family kinases. 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.
US08163730B2	Fused tricyclic compounds as inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor-alpha Compounds of formula 1: are disclosed, wherein V is CH2; W is S(O)m; m is the integer 0, 1 or 2; U is O, C(O), CR13R14 or NR15; where R13 is H, alkyl; R14 is H, OH, OR13 or OCOR13; R15 is H, alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, C(O)R13, C(O)OR13 or alkylaminocarbonyl; R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8 are as defined herein. These compounds are inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and are useful as medicaments for the treatment and prevention of disorders caused by increased TNF-α activity, in particular inflammations.
US08163728B2	Pyrazoles The present invention is concerned with isoxazole-pyrazoles of formula I, having affinity and selectivity for GABA A α5 receptor, their manufacture, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as therapeutics. The active compounds of the present invention are useful as cognitive enhancer or for the therapeutic and/or prophylactic treatment of cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
US08163727B2	Biphenyloxyacetic acid derivatives for the treatment of respiratory disease The invention relates to substituted phenoxyacetic acids of formula (I), where the variables are as defined in claim 1, as useful pharmaceutical compounds for treating respiratory disorders, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and processes for their preparation.
US08163726B2	Method of inhibiting choroidal neovascularization The present invention relates to compositions and methods for inhibiting unwanted angiogenesis, particularly those of ocular tissues. The treatment, inhibition, and/or prevention of choroidal neovasculature (CNV) is provided, along with an animal model for CNV and imaging techniques that permit the screening of potential agents as anti-angiogenesis and anti-CNV agents.
US08163724B2	Glucocorticosteroids, processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) wherein n, p, R1, R2, X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, R3a, R3b, R4, R5 and R6 are as defined in the specification, a process for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy.
US08163723B2	Combination of azelastine and steroids A pharmaceutical product or formulation, which comprises azelastine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or physiologically functional derivative thereof, and a steroid, or a pharmaceutical acceptable salt, solvate or physiologically functional derivative thereof, preferably the product or formulation being in a form suitable for nasal or ocular administration.
US08163718B2	Nucleoside analogues containing phosphonate or phosphonamide groups Novel compounds having structure (1) wherein Z, is N or CH to form a purine, Y, R1, R2′ and R2 are defined in the specification, are provided for use in the treatment of tumors and the prophylaxis or treatment of viral infections.
US08163715B2	Inulin of very high chain length The invention relates to a long-chain inulin and its preparation from artichoke roots, to its use in foodstuffs and cosmetic preparations and to foodstuffs and cosmetic preparations which comprise the long-chain inulin.
US08163714B2	Injectable crosslinked and uncrosslinked alginates and the use thereof in medicine and in cosmetic surgery The invention relates to the use of implantable microcapsules, or microparticles or gels produced from alginates that are crosslinked with bivalent or multivalent cations or that are uncrosslinked, for the treatment of skin defects such as e.g. wrinkles, for the treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux, urinary incontinence and vesico-ureteral reflux.
US08163711B2	Compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of the HAMP gene The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting the expression of the HAMP gene (HAMP gene), comprising an antisense strand having a nucleotide sequence which is less that 30 nucleotides in length, generally 19-25 nucleotides in length, and which is substantially complementary to at least a part of the HAMP gene. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the dsRNA together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; methods for treating diseases caused by HAMP gene expression and the expression of the HAMP gene using the pharmaceutical composition.
US08163709B2	TAK1-D mediated induction of cell death in human cancer cells by specific sequence short double-stranded RNAS The splicing variant D of the TAK1 gene is activated by short double-stranded RNAs in a sequence specific manner. Activation of TAK1-D leads to the downstream activation of the p38 MAPK and of SAPK/JNK but not the NFκB pathway. The current invention therefore provides a method of inducing apoptosis and/or cell cycle arrest in a cancer cell comprising contacting said cell with an agonist of Tak1-D function. The invention further provides a method of modulating inflammation and the treatment of cancer by the administration of an agonist of Tak1-D function or expression. In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method of inducing p38 MAPK and SAPK/JNK signaling in a cell comprising contacting said cell with an agonist of Tak1-D function or expression.
US08163697B2	Selective R-cadherin antagonists and methods An isolated peptide useful as a selective antagonist of mammalian R-cadherin comprises 3 to 30 amino acid residues, three contiguous residues of the peptide having the amino acid sequence Ile-Xaa-Ser; wherein Xaa is an amino acid residue selected from the group consisting of Asp, Asn, Glu, and Gln. Preferably Xaa is Asp or Asn. In one preferred embodiment the peptide is a cyclic peptide having 3 to 10 amino acid residues arranged in a ring. The selective R-cadherin antagonist peptides of the invention are useful for inhibiting the targeting of stem cells, such as endothelial precursor cells, to developing vasculature, for inhibiting R-cadherin mediated cellular adhesion, and for inhibiting retinal angiogenesis.
US08163693B2	Urea-containing peptides as inhibitors of viral replication The invention provides compounds urea-containing peptide compounds of Formula I and the pharmaceutically salts and hydrates thereof. The variables T, R1-R9, J, L, M, Y, Z, m, n, and t are defined herein. Certain compounds of Formula I are useful as antiviral agents. Certain urea-containing peptide compounds disclosed herein are potent and/or selective inhibitors of viral replication, particularly Hepatitis C virus replication. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more urea containing peptides compounds and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, excipients, or diluents. Such pharmaceutical compositions may contain a urea containing peptides compound as the only active agent or may contain a combination of a urea containing peptides compound and one or more other pharmaceutically active agents. The invention also provides methods for treating viral infections, including Hepatitis C infections, in mammals.
US08163689B2	Azeotrope-like compositions of difluoromethane and trifluoroiodomethane Provided are azeotrope-like compositions comprising difluoromethane and trifluoroiodomethane and uses thereof, including use in refrigerant compositions, refrigeration systems, blowing agent compositions, and aerosol propellants.
US08163688B2	Storage-stable fluorescent whitener formulations The present invention relates to a storage-stable fluorescent whitener formulation, comprising a compound of formula 1, a process for their preparation and their use.
US08163687B2	Liquid hard surfaces cleaning compositions The present invention relates to a liquid composition, having a pH between 3 and 7, comprising a non ionic surfactant or a mixture thereof, an amine oxide or a mixture thereof, a glycol ether solvent, a chelant and a cationic polymer. The composition of the present invention does not contain any anionic surfactant. The present invention also encompasses a process of treating hard-surfaces, including delicate hard-surfaces located in bathrooms, wherein a liquid composition according to the present invention is applied onto said surfaces.
US08163685B2	Soy skin care Skin care preparation materials comprising substantial amounts of food grade soy flour in soap bars in separate soap bars suitable for detoxification and makeup removal, exfoliation and moisturization. The food grade soy flours are of differing types and fat content as well as particle size and lecithin content suitable for each of the skin care purposes. A seriatim regimen of skin care with the soap bars is used for maximum skin care effect.
US08163682B2	Oil soluble polymers (EN) The invention relates to a polymer comprising 50-100% by weight, with regard to the weight of the polymers, of repeating units, which are derived from one or more ethylenically unsaturated ester compounds of formula (I), in which R represents hydrogen or methyl; R1 represents a linear or unbranched alkyl radical with 7 to 30 carbon atoms, and; R2 and R3 independently represent hydrogen or a group of formula —COOR′, wherein R′ represents hydrogen or an alkyl group with 7 to 30 carbon atoms. The polymer is a star polymer with 3 to 21 arms and at least 3 of the arms consist of at least 40% by weight, with regard to the weight of the arms, of repeating units, which are derived from one or more ethylenically unsaturated ester compounds of formula (I), in which R1 represents a linear or unbranched alkyl radical with 7 to 30 carbon atoms, and; R2 and R3 independently represent hydrogen or a group of formula —COOR′, wherein R′ represents hydrogen or an alkyl group with 7 to 30 carbon atoms. The invention also relates to oil formulations comprising the inventive polymers. The inventive polymers having a high thickening action can be used, in particular, as viscosity modifiers, pour point depressants, dispersing agents and/or friction modifiers.
US08163679B2	Method for applying remedial cement to a wellbore A cement composition and method of applying remedial cement to a downhole perforation is described. The method involves the sequential delivery of a phosphate acid activator and a silicate suspension to the perforation to allow in situ reaction of the activator with the binder within the perforation, thereby forming a phosphosilicate plug.
US08163677B2	Consolidation agents and the use thereof for consolidating molded bodies and geological formations consisting of porous or particulate materials A consolidation agent for molded articles and geological formations from porous or particulate materials, containing a hydrolysate or precondensate of (a) at least one organosilane of the general formula (I) RnSiX4-n (I) in which the radicals R are identical or different and are not hydrolytically removable groups, the radicals X are identical or different and are hydrolytically removable groups or hydroxyl groups, and n is 1, 2 or 3, and optionally (b) at least one hydrolyzable silane of the general formula (II) SiX4 (II) in which the radicals X have the meaning defined above.
US08163675B2	Emulsifier based on polyamines and fatty acid/maleic anhydride The present invention generally relates to a polyamide emulsifier, to a drilling fluid composition that comprises said emulsifier and to a method of drilling a borehole into a subterranean formation utilizing the drilling fluid composition of the invention.
US08163670B2	Thermal recording medium, and apparatus and method for image formation To provide a thermal recording medium, which can realize easy maintenance, does not produce wastes such as cartridges, and can realize easy control of recording sheets, and an apparatus and method for image formation. [MEANS FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS]A high-temperature color development capsule (23), a low-temperature color development capsule (27), and a low-temperature color development suppression capsule (28) are incorporated in a recording sheet (10). In a printer, the low-temperature color development capsule (27) is subjected to low-temperature color development and is then pressed to break the low-temperature color development suppression capsule (28), whereby low-temperature color development is fixed. Thereafter, the high-temperature color development capsule (23) is subjected to high-temperature color development.
US08163668B2	Inorganic electrolyte setting agent capable of rendering heavy metal ion nonhazardous and method of treatment for utilization as resource therewith The invention provides an inorganic electrolyte setting agent capable of blocking hazardous heavy metals almost permanently and further usable as resources, based on the geological balance of elements, and a treating method for utilization as resources using the same. There is provided an inorganic electrolyte setting agent capable of rendering heavy metal ions nonhazardous, including an aqueous solution as a main agent mixed with A below and also at least one of B and C below: (A) sulfuric acid, (B) at least one of aluminum sulfate and polyaluminum sulfate, (C) at least one of polyferric sulfate and ferric chloride; and an aqueous solution as a concomitant agent mixed with D below: (D) at least one of potassium silicate and sodium silicate.
US08163667B2	Transmitting optical element with low foreign-element contamination A transmitting optical element of polycrystalline material that includes crystallites of magnesium spinel MgAl2O4 or lutetium-aluminum garnet Lu3Al5O12, wherein the polycrystalline material includes an average total concentration of foreign element contamination caused by Y, Sc, Co, Ni, Zr, Mo, Sn and/or Nb of less than 50 ppm, preferably of less than 20 ppm, and more preferably of less than 15 ppm.
US08163665B2	Optical glass An optical glass having refractive index (nd) exceeding 1.85, Abbe number (νd) of 36 or over, comprising SiO2, B2O3, La2O3, Gd2O3, Ta2O5 and Li2O as essential components, being free of Pb and As components, and having glass transition temperature (Tg) of 630° C. or below.
US08163663B2	Multifunctional antistatic non-woven fabric and fabrication method thereof The invention provides a conductive powder composite including a bamboo charcoal powder pre-processed with a pulverizing procedure and a refining procedure of 900 to 1500° C. and a conductive carbon black powder, wherein the bamboo charcoal powder and the conductive carbon black powder are blended by a high speed mechanical granulating machine to form the conductive powder composite. The conductive powder composite can simultaneously and effectively improve the poor conductivity of the bamboo charcoal powder and the embrittlement characteristic of the conductive carbon black powder in the conventional technology. The invention also provides a conductive masterbatch and a fabrication method thereof, and a multifunctional antistatic non-woven fabric and a fabrication method thereof.
US08163656B2	Process for adjusting the size and shape of nanostructures In accordance with the invention, a lateral dimension of a microscale device on a substrate is reduced or adjusted by the steps of providing the device with a soft or softened exposed surface; placing a guiding plate adjacent the soft or softened exposed surface; and pressing the guiding plate onto the exposed surface. Under pressure, the soft material flows laterally between the guiding plate and the substrate. Such pressure induced flow can reduce the lateral dimension of line spacing or the size of holes and increase the size of mesas. The same process also can repair defects such as line edge roughness and sloped sidewalls. This process will be referred to herein as pressed self-perfection by liquefaction or P-SPEL.
US08163653B2	Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same A semiconductor device includes a substrate, a compound semiconductor layer formed over the substrate, and a protective insulating film composed of silicon nitride, which is formed over a surface of the compound semiconductor layer and whose film density in an intermediate portion is lower than that in a lower portion.
US08163650B2	Adjuvant for controlling polishing selectivity and chemical mechanical polishing slurry comprising the same Disclosed is an adjuvant for use in simultaneous polishing of a cationically charged material and an anionically charged material, which forms an adsorption layer on the cationically charged material in order to increase polishing selectivity of the anionically charged material, wherein the adjuvant comprises a polyelectrolyte salt containing: (a) a mixture of a linear polyelectrolyte having a weight average molecular weight of 2,000˜50,000 with a graft type polyelectrolyte that has a weight average molecular weight of 1,000˜20,000 and comprises a backbone and a side chain; and (b) a basic material. CMP (chemical mechanical polishing) slurry comprising the above adjuvant and abrasive particles is also disclosed. The adjuvant comprising a mixture of a linear polyelectrolyte with a graft type polyelectrolyte makes it possible to increase polishing selectivity as compared to CMP slurry using the linear polyelectrolyte alone, and to obtain a desired range of polishing selectivity by controlling the ratio of the linear polyelectrolyte to the graft type polyelectrolyte.
US08163646B2	Interconnection wiring structure of a semiconductor device and method for manufacturing same A method for manufacturing an interconnection wiring structure of a semiconductor device includes forming an isolation region, which arranges active regions in a diagonal direction, in a semiconductor substrate; forming first damascene trenches, which open upper portions of a bit line contacts, by selectively etching a second interlayer insulation layer; forming bit lines which fill the first damascene trenches; forming second damascene trenches, which expose portions of the active region, by selectively etching the portion of a second interlayer insulation layer between the bit lines and the portion of the first interlayer insulation layer thereunder; attaching trench spacer on side walls of the second damascene trench; forming storage node contact lines which fill the second damascene trenches.
US08163645B2	Method for providing a redistribution metal layer in an integrated circuit A system and method is disclosed for providing a redistribution metal layer in an integrated circuit. The redistribution metal layer is formed from the last metal layer in the integrated circuit during manufacture of the integrated circuit before final passivation is applied. The last metal layer provides sites for solder bump pads used in flip chip interconnection. The redistribution metal layer can be (1) a flat layer deposited over the next to last metal layer through an opening in a dielectric layer, or (2) deposited over an array of vias connected to the next to last metal layer. Space between the solder bump pads is deposited with narrower traces for connecting active circuit areas below. A final passivation layer is deposited to ensure product reliability.
US08163643B1	Enhanced pad design for solder attach devices A semiconductor device is disclosed that has a die and a substrate having a die attachment area with a perimeter. A layer of solder connects the substrate and the die, the solder layer having at least one vent channel connected to the perimeter of the die attachment area, wherein the maximum distance from any point in the solder layer to the nearest free surface of the solder at a vent channel or at the perimeter of the die is less than the distance from the center of the die to the nearest edge of the die.
US08163640B2	Metal gate compatible electrical fuse A dielectric material layer is formed on a metal gate layer for a metal gate electrode, and then lithographically patterned to form a dielectric material portion, followed by formation of a polycrystalline semiconductor layer thereupon. A semiconductor device employing a metal gate electrode is formed in a region of the semiconductor substrate containing a vertically abutting stack of the metal gate layer and the polycrystalline semiconductor layer. A material stack in the shape of an electrical fuse is formed in another region of the semiconductor substrate containing a vertical stack of the metal gate layer, the dielectric material portion, and the polycrystalline semiconductor layer. After metallization of the polycrystalline semiconductor layer, an electrical fuse containing a polycrystalline semiconductor portion and a metal semiconductor alloy portion is formed over the dielectric material portion that separates the electrical fuse from the metal gate layer.
US08163634B2	Devices with graphene layers A method includes an act of providing a crystalline substrate with a diamond-type lattice and an exposed substantially (111)-surface. The method also includes an act of forming a graphene layer or a graphene-like layer on the exposed substantially (111)-surface.
US08163633B2	Light-emitting nanoparticles and method of making same A method for the production of a robust, chemically stable, crystalline, passivated nanoparticle and composition containing the same, that emit light with high efficiencies and size-tunable and excitation energy tunable color. The methods include the thermal degradation of a precursor molecule in the presence of a capping agent at high temperature and elevated pressure. A particular composition prepared by the methods is a passivated silicon nanoparticle composition displaying discrete optical transitions.
US08163625B2	Method for fabricating an isolation structure The disclosure relates to integrated circuit fabrication, and more particularly to an electronic device with an isolation structure having almost no divot. An exemplary method for fabricating an isolation structure, comprising: forming a pad oxide layer over a top surface of a substrate; forming an opening in the pad oxide layer, exposing a portion of the substrate; etching the exposed portion of the substrate, forming a trench in the substrate; filling the trench with an insulator; exposing a surface of the pad oxide layer and a surface of the insulator to a vapor mixture including at least an NH3 and a fluorine-containing compound; and heating the substrate at a temperature between 100° C. to 200° C.
US08163621B2	High performance LDMOS device having enhanced dielectric strain layer An LDMOS device includes a substrate having a surface and a gate electrode overlying the surface and defining a channel region in the substrate below the gate electrode. A drain region is spaced apart from the channel region by an isolation region. The isolation region includes a region of high tensile stress and is configured to induce localized stress in the substrate in close proximity to the drain region. The region of high tensile stress in the isolation region can be formed by high-stress silicon oxide or high-stress silicon nitride. In a preferred embodiment, the isolation region is a shallow trench isolation region formed in the substrate intermediate to the gate electrode and the drain region.
US08163620B2	Method for etching Mo-based metal gate stack with aluminium nitride barrier The present application discloses a method for etching a Mo-based metal gate stack with an aluminum nitride barrier, comprising the steps of forming a SiO2 interface layer, a high K dielectric layer, a Mo-based metal gate layer, an AlN barrier layer, a silicon gate layer and a hard mask in sequence on a semiconductor substrate; performing lithography on the semiconductor substrate with the SiO2 interface layer, the high K dielectric layer, the Mo-based metal gate layer, the AlN barrier layer, the silicon gate layer and the hard mask using a photoresist, and etching the hard mask; removing the photoresist, and performing an anisotropic etching for silicon gate with high selectivity to the underlying AlN barrier layer and metal gate by dry etching using the hard mask; performing an anisotropic etching for the AlN barrier layer, the Mo-based metal gate layer, and the high K dielectric layer by a dry etching. With the present method for etching a Mo-based metal gate stack with an aluminum nitride barrier, a vertical etching profile will be obtained and a silicon substrate has little loss, which facilities a high K dielectric/metal gate stack integration.
US08163618B2	Power MOSFET device structure for high frequency applications This invention discloses a new switching device supported on a semiconductor that includes a drain disposed on a first surface and a source region disposed near a second surface of said semiconductor opposite the first surface. The switching device further includes an insulated gate electrode disposed on top of the second surface for controlling a source to drain current. The switching device further includes a source electrode interposed into the insulated gate electrode for substantially preventing a coupling of an electrical field between the gate electrode and an epitaxial region underneath the insulated gate electrode. The source electrode further covers and extends over the insulated gate for covering an area on the second surface of the semiconductor to contact the source region. The semiconductor substrate further includes an epitaxial layer disposed above and having a different dopant concentration than the drain region. The insulated gate electrode further includes an insulation layer for insulating the gate electrode from the source electrode wherein the insulation layer having a thickness depending on a Vgsmax rating of the vertical power device.
US08163617B2	Vertical channel type non-volatile memory device and method for fabricating the same A method for fabricating a vertical channel type non-volatile memory device including forming a source region, alternately forming a plurality of interlayer dielectric layers and a plurality of conductive layers for a gate electrode over a substrate with the source region formed therein, forming a trench exposing the source region by etching the plurality of interlayer dielectric layers and the plurality of conductive layers for a gate electrode, and siliciding the conductive layers for a gate electrode and the source region that are exposed through the trench.
US08163616B2	Methods of manufacturing nonvolatile memory devices Nonvolatile memory devices and methods of manufacturing nonvolatile memory devices are provided. The method includes patterning a bulk substrate to form an active pillar; forming a charge storage layer on a side surface of active pillar; and forming a plurality of gates connected to the active pillar, the charge storage layer being disposed between the active pillar and the gates. Before depositing a gate, a bulk substrate is etched using a dry etching to form a vertical active pillar which is in a single body with a semiconductor substrate.
US08163615B1	Split-gate non-volatile memory cell having improved overlap tolerance and method therefor A method for forming a split-gate non-volatile memory (NVM) cell includes forming a first gate layer over a semiconductor substrate; forming a conductive layer over the first gate layer; patterning the first gate layer and the conductive layer to form a first sidewall, wherein the first sidewall comprises a sidewall of the first gate layer and a sidewall of the conductive layer; forming a first dielectric layer over the conductive layer and the semiconductor substrate, wherein the first dielectric layer overlaps the first sidewall; forming a second gate layer over the first dielectric layer, wherein the second gate layer is formed over the conductive layer and the first gate layer and overlaps the first sidewall; and patterning the first gate layer and the second gate layer to form a first gate and a second gate, respectively, of the split-gate NVM cell, wherein the second gate overlaps the first gate and a portion of the conductive layer remains between the first gate and the second gate.
US08163611B2	Semiconductor device fabrication method and semiconductor device A resist pattern (5) is formed in a dimension of a limitation of an exposure resolution over a hard mask material film (4) over a work film (3). The material film (4) is processed using the resist pattern (5) as a mask. A hard mask pattern (6) is thereby formed. Thereby a resist pattern (7), over a non-selected region (6b), having an opening (7a) through which a selection region (6a) in the mask pattern is exposed is formed. Only the mask pattern (6a) exposed through the opening (7a) is slimmed by performing a selection etching, the work film (3) is etched by using the mask pattern (6). A work film pattern (8) is thereby formed, which include a wide pattern section (8a) of a dimension width of the limitation of the exposure resolution and a slimmed pattern section (8a) of a dimension that is not more than the limitation of the exposure resolution.
US08163610B2	Fabrication of finned memory arrays Methods and apparatus are provided. For an embodiment, a plurality fins is formed in a substrate so that the fins protrude from a substrate. After the plurality fins is formed, the fins are isotropically etched to reduce a width of the fins and to round an upper surface of the fins. A first dielectric layer is formed overlying the isotropically etched fins. A first conductive layer is formed overlying the first dielectric layer. A second dielectric layer is formed overlying the first conductive layer. A second conductive layer is formed overlying the second dielectric layer.
US08163609B2	Nanocrystal memory with differential energy bands and method of formation A method of making a semiconductor device using a semiconductor substrate includes forming a first insulating layer having a first band energy over the semiconductor substrate. A first semiconductor layer having a second band energy is formed on the first insulating layer. The first semiconductor layer is annealed to form a plurality of first charge retainer globules from the first semiconductor layer. A first protective film is formed over each charge retainer globule of the plurality of first charge retainer globules. A second semiconductor layer is formed having a third band energy over the plurality of first charge retainer globules. The second semiconductor layer is annealed to form a plurality of storage globules from the second semiconductor layer over the plurality of first charge retainer globules. A magnitude of the second band energy is between a magnitude of the first band energy and a magnitude of the third band energy.
US08163608B2	Methods of fabricating nonvolatile memory devices Methods of fabricating a nonvolatile memory device include forming a trench mask pattern on a semiconductor substrate including a first region and a second region. Substrate trenches defining active regions are formed in the semiconductor substrate in the first region and the second region using the trench mask pattern as a mask. Device isolation layer patterns are formed on the semiconductor substrate including the trench mask pattern and substrate trenches. The device isolation patterns fill the substrate trenches in the first region and in the second region. First and second openings are formed exposing top surfaces of the corresponding active regions in the first and second regions by removing the trench mask pattern. The second opening has a greater width than the first opening. A first lower conductive pattern is formed in the first opening and has a bottom portion in a lower region of the first opening and an extended portion extending from the bottom portion to an upper region of the first opening. The extended portion has a smaller width than the bottom portion. A second lower conductive pattern is formed filling the second opening.
US08163606B2	Method of manufacturing liquid crystal display device A method of manufacturing an LCD device is disclosed. The LCD device manufacturing method includes: forming first and second active patterns on P-channel and N-channel thin film transistor formation regions of a substrate using a first masking process, respectively; forming a first gate electrode on the P-channel thin film transistor formation region of the substrate using a second masking process; forming a second gate electrode on the N-channel thin film transistor formation region of the substrate using a third masking process; forming first contact holes partially exposing the respective N and P source regions and second contact holes partially exposing the respective N and P drain regions, using a fourth masking process; forming N and P source electrodes connected to the N and P source regions, and N and P drain electrodes connected to the N and P drain regions, using a fifth masking process; simultaneously forming third contact holes and a common electrode using a sixth masking process; forming fourth contact holes, which expose the respective N and P drain electrodes, using a seventh masking process; and forming a pixel electrode using a eighth masking process.
US08163605B2	Production method for semiconductor device It is intended to provide an SGT production method capable of obtaining a structure for reducing a resistance of a source, drain and gate, a desired gate length, desired source and drain configurations and a desired diameter of a pillar-shaped semiconductor to be obtained. The method comprises the steps of: forming a pillar-shaped first-conductive-type semiconductor layer; forming a second-conductive-type semiconductor layer underneath the pillar-shaped first-conductive-type semiconductor layer; forming a dummy gate dielectric film and a dummy gate electrode around the pillar-shaped first-conductive-type semiconductor layer; forming a first dielectric film on an upper region of a sidewall of the pillar-shaped first-conductive-type semiconductor layer and in contact with a top of the gate electrode, through a gate dielectric film; forming a first dielectric film on a sidewall of the gate electrode; forming a second-conductive-type semiconductor layer in an upper portion of the pillar-shaped first-conductive-type semiconductor layer; forming a second-conductive-type semiconductor layer in an upper portion of the pillar-shaped first-conductive-type semiconductor layer; forming a metal-semiconductor compound on each of the second-conductive-type semiconductor layers formed in the upper portion of and underneath the pillar-shaped first-conductive-type semiconductor layer; removing the dummy gate dielectric film and the dummy gate electrode and forming a high-k gate dielectric film and a metal gate electrode.
US08163601B2	Chip-exposed semiconductor device and its packaging method A method of making a chip-exposed semiconductor package comprising the steps of: plating a plurality of electrode on a front face of each chip on a wafer; grinding a backside of the wafer and depositing a back metal then separating each chips; mounting the chips with the plating electrodes adhering onto a front face of a plurality of paddle of a leadframe; adhering a tape on the back metal and encapsulating with a molding compound; removing the tape and sawing through the leadframe and the molding compound to form a plurality of packaged semiconductor devices.
US08163597B2	Semiconductor device and method of forming no-flow underfill material around vertical interconnect structure A semiconductor device is made by forming a conductive layer over a first sacrificial carrier. A solder bump is formed over the conductive layer. A no-flow underfill material is deposited over the first carrier, conductive layer, and solder bump. A semiconductor die or component is compressed into the no-flow underfill material to electrically contact the conductive layer. A surface of the no-flow underfill material and first solder bump is planarized. A first interconnect structure is formed over a first surface of the no-flow underfill material. The first interconnect structure is electrically connected to the solder bump. A second sacrificial carrier is mounted over the first interconnect structure. A second interconnect structure is formed over a second side of the no-flow underfill material. The second interconnect structure is electrically connected to the first solder bump. The semiconductor devices can be stacked and electrically connected through the solder bump.
US08163593B2	Method of making a nonvolatile phase change memory cell having a reduced contact area A method is described to form a nonvolatile memory cell having a contact area between a phase-change material such as a chalcogenide and a heat source which is smaller than photolithographic limits. A conductive or semiconductor pillar is exposed at a dielectric surface and recessed by selective etch. A thin, conformal layer of a spacer material is deposited on the dielectric top surface, the pillar top surface, and the sidewalls of the recess, then removed from horizontal surfaces by anistropic etch, leaving a spacer on the sidewalls defining a reduced volume within the recess. The phase change material is deposited within the spacer, having a reduced contact area to the underlying conductive or semiconductor pillar.
US08163591B2	Backside illuminated image sensor A backside illuminated image sensor includes a photodiode, formed below the top surface of a semiconductor substrate, for receiving light illuminated from the backside of the semiconductor substrate to generate photoelectric charges, a reflecting gate, formed on the photodiode over the front upper surface of the semiconductor substrate, for reflecting light illuminated from the backside of the substrate and receiving a bias to control a depletion region of the photodiode, and a transfer gate for transferring photoelectric charges from the photodiode to a sensing node of a pixel.
US08163589B2	Active layer for solar cell and the manufacturing method making the same A method for manufacturing an active layer of a solar cell is disclosed, the active layer manufactured including multiple micro cavities in sub-micrometer scale, which can increase the photoelectric conversion rate of a solar cell. The method comprises following steps: providing a substrate having multiple layers of nanospheres which are formed by the aggregated nanospheres; forming at least one silicon active layer to fill the inter-gap between the nanospheres and part of the surface of the substrate; and removing the nanospheres to form an active layer having plural micro cavities on the surface of the substrate. The present invention also provides a solar cell comprising: a substrate, an active layer, a transparent top-passivation, at least one front contact pad, and at least one back contact pad. The active layer locates on a surface of the substrate and has plural micro cavities whose diameter is less than one micrometer.
US08163585B2	Method for manufacturing a sensor element, and sensor element A method for manufacturing a capped sensor element by providing a substrate with a sensor structure, the sensor structure being produced in the substrate using a sacrificial material, applying a cap made of zeolite to the sensor structure and the sacrificial material, and removing the sacrificial material, the sacrificial material being removed through the cap made of zeolite. A sensor element having capping is also provided.
US08163583B2	Manufacturing method of micro electronic mechanical system structure A micro electronic mechanical system structure and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. A substrate has a plurality of conductive regions is provided. A dielectric layer is formed on the substrate. A plurality of openings and recesses are formed in the dielectric layer, wherein the openings expose the conductive regions. The recesses are located between the openings. A conductive layer is formed on the dielectric layer and the openings and the recesses are filled with the conductive layer. The conductive layer is patterned to form a plurality of strips of the first conductive patterns on the dielectric layer and a second conductive pattern on the sidewall and the bottom of each recess, wherein the first conductive patterns are connected with each other through the second conductive patterns. The dielectric layer is removed. The second conductive patterns between the first conductive patterns are removed.
US08163581B1	Semiconductor and optoelectronic devices Techniques to utilize layer transfer schemes such as ion-cut to form novel light emitting diodes (LEDs), CMOS image sensors, displays, microdisplays and solar cells are disclosed.
US08163578B2	Light emitting diodes with smooth surface for reflective electrode A light emitting diode comprising an epitaxial layer structure, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The first and second electrodes are separately disposed on the epitaxial layer structure, and the epitaxial layer structure has a root-means-square (RMS) roughness less than about 3 at a surface whereon the first electrode is formed.
US08163576B2	Nitride semiconductor device having a silicon-containing layer and manufacturing method thereof A semiconductor device and a manufacturing method thereof are provided which enable reduction and enhanced stability of contact resistance between the back surface of a nitride substrate and an electrode formed thereover. A nitride semiconductor device includes an n-type Ga—N substrate (1) over which a semiconductor element is formed, and an n-electrode (10) as a metal electrode formed over the back surface of the GaN substrate (1). A connection layer (20) is formed between the GaN substrate (1) and the n-electrode (10), and the connection layer (2) is composed of a material that is other than nitride semiconductors and that contains silicon.
US08163573B2	Method for manufacturing nitride semiconductor element InyGa1-yN (0
US08163571B2	Multi-step deposition control For providing control of two-step or a multi-step deposition process, a method and a corresponding deposition system is provided comprising providing a deposition process having at least two sub-processes employing different sets of process parameters, wherein each set of process parameters comprises at least one process parameter. The method comprises controllably generating an actual value for at least one first process parameter by taking into account at least one previous value of the respective first process parameter, wherein each first process parameter is a process parameter of said at least two sets of process parameters.
US08163567B2	Methods and compositions comprising capture agents The present invention relates to methods and compositions for detecting a substance using mixed or multiple element capture agents (MECA). The affinity of a MECA for a target is produced by the concomitant binding of at least two low to moderate affinity capture agents providing a high affinity interaction with a capture target.
US08163563B2	Devices and methods for removing target agents from a sample The invention provides devices, test kits and methods for removing target agents from a sample. The device contains one or more porous matrices having pore sizes larger than 10 μm, and a plurality of particles impregnated therein. The target agents attach the device and are removed from the sample.
US08163561B2	Method for depth resolved sensing of biological entities based on surface plasmon resonance sensors A surface plasmon resonance sensor system including a high refractive index prism, a sensor chip, a light source having multiple wavelengths over a broad range of wavelengths, optical lenses, a photodetector, a data acquisition unit, and as defined herein. The sensor chip can include, for example, a thin layer of silicon and gold on one face of a transparent substrate and the prism adjacent to the opposite face of the transparent substrate. Such an arrangement provides variable penetration depths up to about 1.5 micrometers with a dynamic range for sensing index of refraction changes in a sample that are several times greater than that of a conventional SPR sensor. The disclosure provides methods for using the surface plasmon resonance sensor system for cell assay or chemical assay related applications.
US08163558B2	Plasmids for transforming bacteria of the acidithiobacillus spp. genus, and transformation method The present invention discloses functional plasmids in bacteria of the Acidithiobacillus genus, such as the Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans and Acidithiobacillus caldus species. And a method to successfully transform bacteria of the Acidithiobacillus genus, such as the Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans and Acidithiobacillus caldus species, with these plasmids.
US08163556B2	Method of cell culture observation, carbon substrate for cell culture observation, and method for manufacture thereof The invention provides a substrate suitable for cell culture observation and a method of observation using the same. Crystalline carbon such as a graphite powder is mixed into a thermosetting resin such as a furan resin, and the mixture is molded in the shape of a sheet and carbonized to produce a carbon substrate; then, a cell is made to adhere to the carbon substrate, and the cell is caused to proliferate on the carbon substrate and observed using a microscope.
US08163555B2	Disposable tubing set for use with a cell expansion apparatus and method for sterile sampling A disposable apparatus for cell expansion, having at least one bioreactor. The bioreactor has a cellular growth area and a supply area, the cellular growth area being separated from said supply area by a membrane. A fluid recirculation path in fluid communication with the cellular growth area allows for hermetically removing a sample containing cellular matter. This may comprise an elongated tube, or a plurality of parallel tube segments. The parallel tube segments have inflow ends and outflow ends, and the inflow ends are joined at a first common juncture and the outflow ends are joined at a second common juncture. The common junctures may comprise valves.
US08163554B2	Intervertebral disc The present invention relates to an engineered biological material comprising or enriched for tissue of intervertebral disc; tissue derived from an engineered biological material; constructs comprising one or more tissues from an engineered biological material; methods for producing the engineered biological materials and constructs; and methods of using the engineered biological materials and constructs.
US08163552B2	Adenocarcinoma specific antibody SAM-6, and uses thereof A purified polypeptide that binds to neoplastic cells, which may be an antibody, is produced by the hybridoma SAM-6, a method for its production and use in the treatment and diagnosis of neoplasms.
US08163551B2	Methods and compositions for making antibodies and antibody derivatives with reduced core fucosylation The invention provides methods and compositions for preparing antibodies and antibody derivatives with reduced core fucosylation.
US08163547B2	Hepatitis C virus codon optimized non-structural NS3/4A fusion gene Aspects of the present invention relate to the discovery of a novel hepatitis C virus (HCV) isolate. Embodiments include HCV peptides, nucleic acids encoding said HCV peptides, antibodies directed to said peptides, compositions containing said nucleic acids and peptides, as well as methods of making and using the aforementioned compositions including, but not limited to, diagnostics and medicaments for the treatment and prevention of HCV infection.
US08163543B2	AAV vectors produced in insect cells The present invention relates to the production of adeno-associated viral vectors in insect cells. The insect cells therefore comprise a first nucleotide sequence encoding the adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsid proteins, whereby the initiation codon for translation of the AAV VP1 capsid protein is a non-ATG, suboptimal initiation codon. The insect cell further comprises a second nucleotide sequence comprising at least one AAV inverted terminal repeat (ITR) nucleotide sequence; a third nucleotide sequence comprising a Rep52 or a Rep40 coding sequence operably linked to expression control sequences for expression in an insect cell; and, a fourth nucleotide sequence comprising a Rep78 or a Rep68 coding sequence operably linked to expression control sequences for expression in an insect cell. The invention further relates to adeno-associated viral vectors with an altered ratio of the viral capsid proteins that provides improved infectivity of the viral particles.
US08163542B2	Potent combinations of mRNA transport elements This invention provides expression vectors that comprise a combination of RNA transport elements that improve expression.
US08163539B2	Bacteriorhodopsin-based photochromic sensor for detection of chemical and environmental toxins A bacteriorhodopsin based chemical sensing architecture based upon the collective response of bacteriorhodopsin and a number of its mutants; the wild type protein and a selection of genetically-engineered variants was able to respond differentially to a selection of amines. The observable response to the presence of a target chemical was manifested through a modulation of bacteriorhodopsin's photokinetic properties, which are monitored through pump-probe techniques using a custom prototype flash photolysis system. Differential responsivity exists at two levels; (1) bacteriorhodopsin proteins (wild-type and genetically-engineered variants) respond differentially upon exposure of a target chemical, and (2) the response pattern exhibited by the proteins differs from chemical to chemical. This dichotomy forms the basis for a BR-mediated chemical sensing technology that is highly sensitive and selective and may therefore discriminate between different chemicals.
US08163538B2	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 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. The device includes a substrate which defines a sample-distribution network having (i) a sample inlet, (ii) one or more detection chambers, and (iii) channel means providing a dead-end fluid connection between each of the chambers and the inlet. 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.
US08163521B2	Self-assembled proteins and related methods and protein structures The present invention provides user-directed construction of novel specific homo- and hetero-dimeric, and multimeric assemblages of proteins. The present invention is comprised of gene sequences that transcribe peptide sequences that form links between proteins, where the peptide sequences produce a hook or loop which supports specific self-assembly of homo-dimers, hetero-dimers and multimers of the proteins to which they are attached. The hook or loop may have a short aliphatic repeat sequence and a metal binding loop. The present invention also provides a method of constructing a hook motif of metal binding loop sequences that may be attached to at least one aliphatic repeat sequence to produce the assemblages of proteins. Also provided are protein structures produced by the methods of the present invention.
US08163520B2	Nucleic acids encoding a chimeric polypeptide comprising IL-7 and HGF-beta chain and methods of use The present invention relates to a single-chain or chimeric polypeptide comprising a cytokine and a growth factor linked by at least one amino acid residue, and wherein the chimeric polypeptide enhances the proliferation and/or differentiation of hematopoietic precursor cells. In particular the invention relates to, a chimeric polypeptide comprising the beta-chain of hepatocyte growth factor, and IL-7 linked by at least one amino acid, and wherein the chimeric polypeptide demonstrates pre-pro-B proliferation and growth stimulating activity.
US08163518B2	Microwave assisted deglycosylation of proteins for molecular weight determination by mass spectrometry Methods are presented for microwave assisted, enzymatic deglycosylation of proteins. The rate at which deglycosylation is achieved and without protein degradation facilitates rapid and accurate molecular weight determination by mass spectrometry.
US08163517B2	Organic material production system using biomass material and method An organic material production system using biomass material includes: a hydrothermal decomposition apparatus (13) that causes the biomass material (11) and hot compressed water (12) to countercurrently contact with each other and undergo hydrothermal decomposition, and that transfers a lignin component and a hemicellulose component into the hot compressed water, so as to separate the lignin component and the hemicellulose component from a biomass solid residue; a cellulose enzymatic saccharification device (17) that treats, with an enzyme, cellulose in the biomass solid residue, so as to enzymatically saccharify the cellulose to a first sugar solution containing hexose; an alcohol fermenter (18) that produces alcohols by fermentation using the obtained first sugar solution; a sulfuric acid decomposition device (33) that decomposes, with sulfuric acid, the hemicellulose component in hot water (30) discharged from the hydrothermal decomposition apparatus, which contains the eluted lignin component and the eluted hemicellulose component, so as to decompose the hemicellulose component to a second sugar solution containing pentose; and a second alcohol fermenter (34) that produces, using the second sugar solution containing pentose, alcohols by fermentation.
US08163515B2	Eukaryotic Microorganisms for producing lipids and antioxidants Disclosed are compositions and methods related to eukaryotic microorganisms that can produce unsaturated fatty acids which can be purified and use.
US08163513B2	Method for determining the total clotting activity of a blood or plasma sample The invention relates to a method for determining the total clotting activity of a blood or plasma sample, characterized in that a highly specific, reversible thrombin inhibitor is added to a blood or plasma sample in a defined amount, the clotting of the blood or plasma sample is induced and, after a defined period of time, the consumed amount of the added thrombin inhibitor is determined in a per se known manner, as well as to a kit for obtaining information about the state of coagulation of a blood sample.
US08163511B2	Methods for the identification of LRRK2 interacting molecules The invention features methods for the identification of leucine-rich kinase 2 (LRRK2) inhibitors using indol ligand 91. Generally, these methods include identifying compounds that compete with indol ligand 91 for binding to LRRK2.
US08163510B2	Quantitative ZAP-70 assay An quantitative ZAP-70 assay is provided, with ZAP-70+ and ZAP-70− controls, normal human blood controls, an improved antibody with better signal to noise ratio, and using the median MEFL that is calibrated using a standard curve.
US08163503B2	Methods of identifying compounds that bind TANGO509 The invention provides isolated TANGO 239, TANGO 219, TANGO 232, TANGO 281, A236 (INTERCEPT 236), TANGO 300, TANGO 353, TANGO 393, TANGO 402, TANGO 351 and TANGO 509 nucleic acid molecules and polypeptide molecules. The invention also provides antisense nucleic acid molecules, expression vectors containing the nucleic acid molecules of the invention, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and non-human transgenic animals in which a nucleic acid molecule of the invention has been introduced or disrupted. The invention still further provides isolated polypeptides, fusion polypeptides, antigenic peptides and antibodies. Diagnostic, screening and therapeutic methods utilizing compositions of the invention are also provided.
US08163502B2	Method for predicting the risk of disease based on lectin binding Provided are methods, test devices, and diagnostic kits for predicting, assessing, and diagnosing the risk of a disease using salivary analysis. The methods comprise providing a whole (unfractionated) saliva sample from a subject; contacting an aliquot of the saliva with two or more lectins under conditions that allow the two or more lectins to bind to a lectin-binding component of the saliva; detecting the amount of bound lectin; and comparing the amount of bound lectin to the amount known to bind a saliva sample from a control patient, to predict the risk of a disease in the subject. Also provided are methods for reducing the risk of a disease and a method for assessing the risk of the disease at a defined level.
US08163496B2	Methods and kits for measuring von Willebrand factor Methods and kits for measuring levels of von Willebrand factor function in a sample without using a platelet aggregation agonist, such as ristocetin, comprising recombinant glycoprotein Ibα having at least two of a G233V, D235Y and M239V mutations and an agent to detect a complex between the recombinant glycoprotein Ibα and von Willebrand factor.
US08163493B2	Targets for use in diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of cancer Provided herein are targets that can be used for the diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of a variety of cancers.
US08163492B2	Microfluidic device and methods of using same A variety of elastomeric-based microfluidic devices and methods for using and manufacturing such devices are provided. Certain of the devices have arrays of reaction sites to facilitate high throughput analyses. Some devices also include reaction sites located at the end of blind channels at which reagents have been previously deposited during manufacture. The reagents become suspended once sample is introduced into the reaction site. The devices can be utilized with a variety of heating devices and thus can be used in a variety of analyses requiring temperature control, including thermocycling applications such as nucleic acid amplification reactions, genotyping and gene expression analyses.
US08163490B2	Method of analyzing methylated DNA The present invention provides a method of analyzing methylated DNA, comprising steps of: (A) treating a DNA-containing sample with a restriction enzyme to obtain a sample containing a DNA fragment; (B) concentrating methylated DNA contained in the sample obtained in step (A) to obtain a methylated DNA concentrate; (C) subjecting the methylated DNA concentrate obtained in step (B) and a primer set to nucleic acid amplification reaction, wherein the primer set performs the nucleic acid amplification reaction in step (C) by using a template DNA which does not have a CpG site; (D) detecting an amplification product obtained in step (C); (E) judging whether the methylated DNA concentrate obtained in step (B) is appropriate as a sample for detection of methylated DNA, on the basis of the detection result of the amplification product in step (D); and (F) analyzing the methylated DNA contained in the methylated DNA concentrate.
US08163487B2	2′-terminator nucleotide-related methods and systems The present invention provides methods of extending primer nucleic acids and sequencing target nucleic acids. The methods include the use of 2′-terminator nucleotides to effect chain termination. In addition to related reaction mixtures and kits, the invention also provides computers and computer readable media.
US08163483B2	Compositions and methods for spinocerebellar ataxia Mutations in the KCNC3 (Kv3.3) voltage-gated potassium channel gene result in spinocerebellar ataxia.
US08163482B2	BBS10 related diagnostic methods for Bardet-Biedl syndrome The present invention relates to the identification of a gene, designated BBS1O, that is involved in the genetic disease Bardet Biedl Syndrome (BBS), which is characterized by such diverse symptoms as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, mental retardation, renal cancer and other abnormalities, retinopathy and hypogonadism. Methods of use for the gene, for example in diagnosis and therapy of BBS, also are described.
US08163480B2	Nucleic acid size detection method The present invention provides methods of determining the size of a particular nucleic acid segment of interest in a sample of nucleic acids through fragmentation of DNA, size fractionation, an optional second fragmentation, and identification using a marker sequence. In particular aspects, an expansion or reduction of tandem repeat sequences can be detected. In further aspects, carriers and individuals afflicted with fragile X syndrome or other diseases associated with tandem repeats can be distinguished from normal individuals.
US08163478B2	Fertility restoration for Ogura cytoplasmic male sterile Brassica and method A Brassica plant comprising a unique recombination event resulting from a break at a position along a nucleic acid segment derived from ogura Raphanus sativus between the restorer locus and the glucosinolate locus and subsequent rejoining to produce a new recombination event, BLR1. The BLR1 recombination event expresses fertility restoring resulting from expression of the restorer gene derived from Raphanus sativus and a GSL content no higher than normal double low open pollinated varieties. The Brassica inbred line BLR-038, Deposit Number NCIMB-41193, is one example of a plant that contains the BLR1 recombination event. The BLR1 recombination event is introgressed into different Brassica genetic backgrounds using breeding techniques known to those skilled in the art. For example, the Brassica inbred line BLR-038 or another Brassica plant containing the BLR1 recombination event may be crossed with male sterile inbreds to produce hybrids expressing low GSL content and superior agronomic traits.
US08163477B2	Nuclease-based method for detecting and quantitating oligonucleotides A method for quantitating an oligonucleotide in a sample of bodily fluid and/or extract is provided. The method provides for the detection and/or localization of oligonucleotides, including administered modified oligonucleotides, for therapeutic and/or pharmacokinetic purposes.
US08163475B2	Methods for diagnosis and prognosis of psychotic disorders The invention features methods diagnostic of a psychotic disorder such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. The methods include obtaining a cell sample from a subject, subjecting a cell from the sample to stress (e.g., nutrient stress), and measuring nucleic acid or polypeptide expression in the cell, where an alteration in expression is indicative of the subject having or being at increased risk of developing a psychotic disorder. The invention also features prognostic monitoring methods for subjects having a psychotic disorder, useful in determining the progression of a psychotic disorder in a subject or the effectiveness of a therapy.
US08163470B2	Simulated 5-part differential leukocyte granules, the method for preparing the same and control products and calibrators comprising the same A method for preparing five-part differential leukocyte analogs from red blood cells includes selecting appropriate red blood cells; treating the red blood cells with a multi-functional reagent system for maintenance of a structural integrity of the membranes of the red blood cells and synchronous adjustment of cell volume, morphology and inclusions; subjecting the treated red blood cells to an intensified fixation; and washing the treated cells for preservation. The present disclosure also relates to leukocyte analogs prepared by the above method, a reagent system used for preparing the analogs, and a quality control and a calibrator including the analogs for use in a hematology analyzer.
US08163464B2	Propanoates and processes for preparing the same A process for preparing proponates which comprises the steps of (i) supplying a solution of methanol containing 4-hydroxyphenylmethylcarbinol, (ii) subjecting said solution to an acid catalyzed displacement reaction for a sufficient period of time and under suitable conditions of temperature and pressure to convert substantially all of said carbinol to 4-hydroxyphenylmethylcarbinol methyl ether in solution, (iii) replacing the methanol in said ether containing solution with a second solvent and (iv) reacting the ether containing ethyl lactate solution with a suitable acid catalyst for a sufficient period of time and under suitable conditions of temperature and pressure to form said propanoates. New compositions of matter which comprise the propanoates, prepared in the above manner, have application in the electronic chemicals market such as in a photoresist composition.
US08163453B2	Toner having particles and titanate compound Disclosed is a toner which can be charged at a designated level even when a lot of print is carried out with severity of charging by stirring and when the printing is carried out under the low temperature-low humidity or the high temperature-high humidity condition. A toner comprising (a) a particle comprising a resin and a colorant; and (b) a titanate compound on the surface of the particle, in which the titanate compound contains iron in an amount of from 100 ppm to 1,000 ppm.
US08163451B2	Electrostatic latent image developing toner and method of image forming An electrostatic latent image developing toner comprising at least a resin, a wax and a colorant, wherein the wax comprises 40 to 98% by mass of a first release agent comprising an ester wax and 2 to 60% by mass of a second release agent comprising a hydrocarbon having at least one of a branched chain structure and a cyclic structure; and the colorant comprises a silicon phthalocyanine represented by Formula (I):
US08163450B2	Toner, and image forming apparatus and image forming method using the toner A toner including toner particles; and external additives including a fatty acid metal salt having an average primary particle diameter of from 0.5 to 1.5 μm; a positively chargeable particulate inorganic material; and a negatively chargeable particulate inorganic material. An image forming apparatus including a photoreceptor bearing an electrostatic image, and a center feed developing device configured to develop the electrostatic image with a developer including the toner to form a toner image, and a transfer device configured to transfer the toner image onto a receiving material preferably fed at a speed of from 500 to 1700 mm/s. An image forming method including forming an electrostatic image, developing the electrostatic image with the center feed developing device using the toner to form a toner image, and transferring the toner image onto a receiving material preferably fed at a speed of from 500 to 1700 mm/s.
US08163448B2	Determination method, exposure method, device fabrication method, and storage medium The present invention provides a method of determining a structure of an antireflection coating formed on a substrate as an exposure target of an exposure apparatus, the method comprising steps of calculating, an intensity distribution of light diffracted by an original, based on information of an effective light source formed on a pupil plane of a projection optical system, and information of an original pattern, extracting diffracted light having an intensity of not less than a threshold from the intensity distribution calculated in the calculating step, and determining the structure of the antireflection coating, formed on the substrate, such that a reflectance of the antireflection coating falls within a target range when an incident angle of the diffracted light, which has the intensity of not less than the threshold and is extracted in the extracting step, on the antireflection coating formed on the substrate is an input.
US08163444B2	Mask for crystallizing a semiconductor layer and method of crystallizing a semiconductor layer using the same A mask for crystallizing a semiconductor layer includes a plurality of first main-slit portions, a plurality of second main-slit portions, upper slit portion and lower slit portion. The first main-slit portions extend along an inclined direction with respect to a first direction. The second main-slit portions are spaced apart from the first main-slit portions. The upper slit portion is disposed on the first main-slit portions along a second direction to be parallel to the first main-slit portions, and extends partway over the second main-slit portions to be longer than the first main-slit portions. The lower slit portion is disposed under the second main-slit portions along the second direction to be parallel to the second main-slit portions, and extends partway under the first main-slit portions to be longer than the second main-slit portions.
US08163443B2	Photosensitive resin composition for volume phase hologram recording and optical information recording medium using the same Disclosed is a volume phase hologram recording material characterized by excellent photosensitivity, low cure shrinkage, high transparency, and particularly good storage stability and also disclosed is a recording medium prepared therefrom. Further disclosed is a photosensitive resin composition for volume phase hologram recording that comprises a soluble aromatic copolymer (A), a photoradically polymerizable compound (B) capable of copolymerizing with the soluble aromatic copolymer (A), a photopolymerization initiator (C), and a polymer binder (D). The soluble aromatic copolymer (A) has a structural unit of a divinyl aromatic compound and a structural unit of a monovinyl aromatic compound, comprises 10 to 90 mol % of a structural unit represented by the following formula (a1), has a hydroxyl equivalent of 100 to 30,000 g/equiv, a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 400 to 30,000, and a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of 10 or less, and accounts for 5 to 60 wt % of the composition.
US08163441B2	Inorganic separator-electrode-unit for lithium-ion batteries, method for the production thereof and use thereof in lithium batteries Separator-electrode assemblies (SEAs) comprise a porous electrode useful as a positive or negative electrode, in a lithium battery and a separator layer applied to this electrode, the separator layer being an inorganic separator layer comprising at least two fractions of metal oxide particles different from each other in their average particle size and/or in the metal, and the electrode having active mass particles are bonded together and to the current collector by inorganic adhesive; and a process for their production.
US08163438B2	Composite electrolyte membrane, production method thereof, membrane-electrode assembly, and fuel cell A composite electrolyte membrane uses a metal-oxide hydrate which has a number of hydration water molecules of 2.7 or more and 10 or less and/or which is in the form of particles having a particle diameter of 1 nm or more and 10 nm or less. The composite electrolyte membrane exhibits its expected original performance, has both a high proton conductivity and a low methanol permeability, and provides a high-output membrane electrolyte assembly for a fuel cell.
US08163437B2	Anode with ceramic additives for molten carbonate fuel cell A molten carbonate fuel cell anode comprising a porous anode body, which comprises a nickel-based alloy and at least one ceramic additive dispersed throughout the anode body. The amount of the ceramic additive in the anode body is between 5 and 50% by volume. The nickel-based alloy is Ni—Cr or Ni—Al, and the ceramic additive is one of CeO2, yttrium doped ceria, yttrium doped zirconia, TiO2, Li2TiO3, LiAlO2 and La0.8Sr0.2CoO3.
US08163436B2	Solid oxide fuel cell stack having a glass sealant composition Solid oxide fuel cell stack obtainable by a process comprising the use of a glass sealant with composition 50-70 wt % SiO2, 0-20 wt % Al2O3, 10-50 wt % CaO, 0-10 wt % MgO, 0-2 wt % (Na2O+K2O), 5-10 wt % B2O3, and 0-5 wt % of functional elements selected from TiO2, ZrO2, F, P2O5, MoO3, Fe2O3, MnO2, La—Sr—Mn—O perovskite (LSM) and combinations thereof.
US08163435B2	Porous body and production method A porous body which has a density of from 40 to 70%, is formed from an Fe-based alloy and contains from 0.01 to 2% by weight of mixed oxide with at least one oxidic compound of one or more metals from the group consisting of Y, Sc, rare earth metals and at least one further oxidic compound of one or more metals from the group consisting of Ti, Al, Cr. The porous body displays no after-shrinkage even at operating temperatures of 900° C., it has very good corrosion resistance and it is particularly suitable as a support substrate for use in high-temperature fuel cells.
US08163433B2	Fuel cell integral bundle assembly including ceramic open end seal and vertical and horizontal thermal expansion control A plurality of integral bundle assemblies contain a top portion with an inlet fuel plenum and a bottom portion containing a base support, the base supports a dense, ceramic air exhaust manifold having four supporting legs, the manifold is below and connects to air feed tubes located in a recuperator zone, the air feed tubes passing into the center of inverted, tubular, elongated, hollow electrically connected solid oxide fuel cells having an open end above a combustion zone into which the air feed tubes pass and a closed end near the inlet fuel plenum, where the open end of the fuel cells rest upon and within a separate combination ceramic seal and bundle support contained in a ceramic support casting, where at least one flexible cushion ceramic band seal located between the recuperator and fuel cells protects and controls horizontal thermal expansion, and where the fuel cells operate in the fuel cell mode and where the base support and bottom ceramic air exhaust manifolds carry from 85% to all of the weight of the generator.
US08163432B2	Fuel cell The present invention provides a fuel cell capable of inhibiting desiccation and flooding of a membrane electrode assembly. The fuel cell has a laminated body having a membrane electrode assembly including an electrolyte membrane sandwiched by an anode catalyst layer and a cathode catalyst layer. A pair of separators sandwiches the laminated body, and between at least one separator and the laminated body, inlet and outlet passages are formed. The inlet passage is blocked at a downstream end of the reaction gas supplied to the laminated body and the outlet passage is blocked at an upstream end of the reaction gas having passed through the laminated body. The inlet passage and the outlet passage are arranged separately from each other. The depth of the upstream region of the inlet passage is larger than that of the downstream region of the inlet passage.
US08163429B2	High efficiency fuel cell system A fuel cell comprises an anode comprising an anode catalyst, a cathode comprising a gas diffusion electrode and a cathode catalyst on the gas diffusion electrode, a microfluidic channel contiguous with the anode, and a liquid comprising fuel in the channel. The concentration of the fuel in the liquid is 0.05-0.5 M.
US08163428B2	Fuel cell system and method for operating the same The invention relates to a fuel cell system and method comprising a reformer with a thermal starting device, at least one gas processing stage downstream of the reformer, at least one fuel cell disposed downstream of the gas processing stage and a plurality of bipolar plates, the fuel cell having an inner region of a reaction with anode, cathode and electrolyte, and an outer region with at least one cooling channel permitting a coolant to flow through the cooling channel, wherein the outer region is not in fluid connection with the inner region. Upstream of the fuel cell, the fuel cell system has a switching device, which is switchable between a start-up position and an operating position, wherein in the operating position the product gases from the reformer and/or the thermal starting device are guided to the inner region of the fuel cell.
US08163422B2	Electrochemical device There is provided an electrochemical device provided with an electrolytic solution comprising (I) a solvent for dissolving an electrolyte salt comprising (A) a fluorine-containing ether represented by the formula (1): Rf1—O—Rf2 wherein Rf1 and Rf2 are the same or different and each is a fluorine-containing alkyl group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms, (B) a cyclic carbonate, and (C) a chain carbonate being compatible with both of the fluorine-containing ether (A) and the cyclic carbonate (B), and (II) an electrolyte salt, in which the solvent (I) for dissolving an electrolyte salt comprises 30 to 60% by volume of the fluorine-containing ether (A), 3 to 40% by volume of the cyclic carbonate (B) and 10 to 67% by volume of the chain carbonate (C) based on the whole solvent (I), and when the electrochemical device is provided with such an electrolytic solution, no phase separation occurs even at low temperature, flame retardancy and heat resistance are excellent, solubility of an electrolyte salt is high, discharge capacity is large, and charge and discharge cycle characteristics are satisfactory.
US08163418B1	Method of controlled delivery for use in electrochemical power sources A system and method for improving electrochemical power sources through the dispensing, encapsulation and dispersion into galvanic chambers of an electrochemical cell. Features of the method include the optimization of the concentration levels of chemicals involved in desired energy producing reactions.
US08163413B2	Electronic apparatus An electronic apparatus has a battery pack and a main unit. The battery pack has a groove formed in an outer surface of the battery pack, the groove being recessed from the outer surface and extending in a predetermined direction. The main unit comprises a container portion containing the battery pack in a removable manner and having a projection engaged to the groove of the battery pack loaded in the container portion, and a cable disposed in an internal space of the projection.
US08163410B2	Lithium rechargeable cell with reference electrode for state of health monitoring A battery management system includes one or more lithium ion cells in electrical connection, each said cell comprising: first and second working electrodes and one or more reference electrodes, each reference electrode electronically isolated from the working electrodes and having a separate tab or current collector exiting the cell and providing an additional terminal for electrical measurement; and a battery management system comprising a battery state-of-charge monitor, said monitor being operable for receiving information relating to the potential difference of the working electrodes and the potential of one or more of the working electrodes versus the reference electrode.
US08163402B2	Polymer comprising phenyl pyridine units The invention relates to a polymer comprising structural unit of formula I: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6 are independently at each occurrence a C1-C20 aliphatic radical, a C3-C20 aromatic radical, or a C3-C20 cycloaliphatic radical; a, b, d, e and f are independently at each occurrence 0, or an integer ranging from 1 to 4; c is independently at each occurrence 0, or an integer ranging from 1 to 3. In another aspect, the invention relates to monomers for preparing the polymers. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to an optical electronic device comprising a polymer comprising structural unit of formula I.
US08163401B2	Component having a coating system The invention relates to a component having a coating system, which comprises at least one bonding coat applied directly onto the component and at least one thermal barrier coat formed on the bonding coat, the bonding coat comprising from 22 to 36 wt. % Cr, from 15 to 30 wt. % Ni, at most 55 ppm Al, and Fe as a basis.
US08163396B2	Ceramic powder, ceramic layer and layer system with pyrochlore phase and oxides A layer system is disclosed. The layer system includes a substrate and a ceramic outer layer. The ceramic outer ceramic layer is produced from a ceramic powder. The ceramic powder include a phrochlore phase according to the empirical formula AxByOz with x, y≈2, z≈7 and a secondary oxide CrOs with r, s>0.
US08163392B2	Method for producing an electronic component passivated by lead free glass The method for producing glass-coated electronic components includes processing a lead-free glass with a liquid to form a suspension, applying the suspension on an electronic component body and subsequently sintering the component body with the suspension on it. The lead-free glass contains, in % by weight, SiO2, 3-12; B2O3, 15-<25; Al2O3, 0-6; Cs2O, 0-5; MgO, 0-5; BaO, 0-5; Bi2O3, 0-5; CeO2, 0.01-1; MoO3, 0-1; Sb2O3, 0-2 and ZnO, 50-65. The method can be used to passivate electronic components.
US08163389B2	Conductive roll and method for producing same A conductive roll having at least one conductive elastic layer on the outer periphery of a core bar, the conductive elastic layer being granted conductivity by carbon black, is provided. The conductive elastic layer is prepared by reacting at least a polyol consisting essentially of a polyether-based polyol with a diisocyanate with the use of a tetravalent organotin-based compound having a tin content of 18.7% or less by weight as a catalyst. A method for producing the conductive roll is also provided.
US08163383B2	Antiglare film This invention provides an antiglare film which has high antiglare property and show little white-blurring. An embodiment of the present invention is an antiglare film having a binder matrix and particles on a transparent substrate. The binder matrix is an acrylic material. The particles are made of a copolymer of styrene and methyl methacrylate. The copolymerization ratio by weight of the styrene and methyl methacrylate is in the styrene:methacrylic acid=60:40 to 80:20 range. In addition, a quotient R/H, which is obtained by dividing an average diameter of the particles (R) by the average thickness of the antiglare layer (H), is in the 0.45-0.65 range. Moreover, a quotient wP/wB, which is obtained by dividing a content of the particles in the antiglare layer (wP) by a content of the binder matrix in the antiglare layer (wB) is in the 0.08-0/164.
US08163375B2	Customizable articles and method of customization Customizable articles and a method of customization are disclosed. The method produces customizable articles having a graphic or pigment arrangement sandwiched between a film transfer layer and an exterior surface of the customizable articles. The process involves aligning a customizable article and a graphical transfer assembly on a press assembly, heating the press assembly, and applying pressure to the customizable article using the press. After removing the customizable article from the press assembly, the process comprises removal of the carrier layer and inspection of the resulting customizable article.
US08163373B2	Method of room temperature covalent bonding A method of bonding includes using a bonding layer having a fluorinated oxide. Fluorine may be introduced into the bonding layer by exposure to a fluorine-containing solution, vapor or gas or by implantation. The bonding layer may also be formed using a method where fluorine is introduced into the layer during its formation. The surface of the bonding layer is terminated with a desired species, preferably an NH2 species. This may be accomplished by exposing the bonding layer to an NH4OH solution. High bonding strength is obtained at room temperature. The method may also include bonding two bonding layers together and creating a fluorine distribution having a peak in the vicinity of the interface between the bonding layers. One of the bonding layers may include two oxide layers formed on each other. The fluorine concentration may also have a second peak at the interface between the two oxide layers.
US08163372B2	Anti-dazzling optical laminate Disclosed is an anti-dazzling laminate which has anti-dazzling properties and can realize excellent glare preventive properties and black color reproducibility (gradation rendering of black color at low brightness). The anti-dazzling laminate is an optical laminate comprises a light transparent base material and an anti-dazzling layer provided on the light transparent base material, wherein the outermost surface of the anti-dazzling layer has a concavoconvex shape, and the optical laminate satisfies the following requirements: Ha is more than 0% and less than 90%, Hi is more than 0% and less than 90%, and Hi/Ha is not less than 0.8 and less than 1.0, wherein Ha represents the whole haze value of the optical laminate; and Hi represents the internal haze value of the optical laminate.
US08163367B2	Water absorbing mat A water absorbing mat includes a base having an internal space open to a top; a squeezing unit disposed in the internal space and comprising a plurality of water bladders having a plurality of legs; and a water absorbing unit disposed on the water bladders and formed of a predetermined water absorbing material such as pile threads or foam.
US08163366B2	Write-once-read-many optical recording medium The present invention provides a write-once-read-many optical recording medium comprising a substrate, a recording layer comprising any one of bismuth and an oxide of bismuth, an overcoat layer and a reflective layer in this order from a laser beam incident plane, wherein the write-once-read-many optical recording medium has a reflectivity of 35% or less when a laser is applied to the flat part of the substrate or a write-once-read-many optical recording medium comprising a substrate, an undercoat layer, a recording layer comprising any one of bismuth and an oxide of bismuth, an overcoat layer and a reflective layer in this order from a laser beam incident plane, wherein the write-once-read-many optical recording medium has a reflectivity of 35% or less when a laser is applied to the flat part of the substrate.
US08163362B2	Line of sight hose cover A multilayer hose cover for a hose, such as a high-pressure hose, is disclosed. In some embodiments, the hose cover comprises at least three layers that are interwoven together using weft yarn. In these embodiments, the hose cover includes an outer sheath, a middle sheath, and an inner sheath interwoven together by weft yarn in such a way that the layers reinforce one another and are configured to contain the energy associated with a hose burst.
US08163360B2	Pigment dispersion and inkjet recording medium using the same The present invention relates to a pigment dispersion having an inorganic pigment dispersed therein, characterized in that a metal compound adheres to the inorganic pigment and a metal ion concentration of the metal compound in the pigment dispersion does not exceed 0.05 mol/L.
US08163359B2	Retardation film, and polarizing plate and liquid crystal display comprising the same Disclosed are a retardation film including a polymer resin; and an optically anisotropic compound having a silicon group, and a polarizing plate including the retardation film. Also, disclosed is a liquid crystal display including the retardation film and/or the polarizing plate.
US08163348B2	Controlled thickness reduction for hot-dip coated, hot-rolled steel strip and installation used in this process The invention relates to a method for hot-dip coating hot-rolled steel strip, during which the steel strip passes through a pickling station, a rinsing station, a drying station, a heating furnace and then through a molten bath. The final thickness and the thickness tolerance of the hot-dip coated steel strip are achieved by a controlled thickness reduction in a roll stand in the process line. The achievement of the finished thickness is controlled by at least one thickness measuring unit at the outlet of the roll stand, and deviations upward or downward therefrom are fed back in the form of an actuating signal for actuating the roll stand in order to appropriately increase or decrease the thickness reduction. The invention also relates to an installation for producing a steel strip of the aforementioned type.
US08163347B2	High energy density nanocomposites and related methods of preparation Disclosed are metal oxide-polymer composites having a substrate comprising a metal oxide component, an aluminum oxide component, and a metallocene olefin polymerization catalyst component coupled to the substrate. The compositions can be used as thin films in an insulator device. Also disclosed is a method of preparing such compositions.
US08163342B2	Method of making low resisitivity doped zinc oxide coatings and the articles formed thereby A low-resistivity, doped zinc oxide coated glass article is formed by providing a hot glass substrate having a surface on which a coating is to be deposited, the surface being at a temperature of at least 400° C. A zinc containing compound, an oxygen-containing compound and an aluminum- or gallium-containing compound are directed to the surface on which the coating is to be deposited. The zinc containing compound, oxygen-containing compound, and aluminum- or gallium-containing compound are mixed together for a sufficient time that an aluminum or gallium doped zinc oxide coating is formed on the surface at a deposition rate of greater than 5 nm/second.
US08163341B2	Methods of forming metal-containing structures, and methods of forming germanium-containing structures Some embodiments include methods of forming metal-containing structures. A first metal-containing material may be formed over a substrate. After the first metal-containing material is formed, and while the substrate is within a reaction chamber, hydrogen-containing reactant may be used to form a hydrogen-containing layer over the first metal-containing material. The hydrogen-containing reactant may be, for example, formic acid and/or formaldehyde. Any unreacted hydrogen-containing reactant may be purged from within the reaction chamber, and then metal-containing precursor may be flowed into the reaction chamber. The hydrogen-containing layer may be used during conversion of the metal-containing precursor into a second metal-containing material that forms directly against the first metal-containing material. Some embodiments include methods of forming germanium-containing structures, such as, for example, methods of forming phase change materials containing germanium, antimony and tellurium.
US08163339B2	Edge densification for film boiling process A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving densification of porous substrate using a film boiling process. In particular, the disclosed method and apparatus permit more complete densification of a substrate (i.e., densification closer to the surface of the substrate) by providing a sort of barrier that reduces cooling of the surface of the substrate being densified caused by contact with the relatively cool boiling liquid precursor of the densifying material, such as carbon. In particular, contact between the substrate and the liquid precursor is reduced using one or both of physical barriers (such as a mesh material) or structures that promote the formation of an insulating gaseous layer between the substrate and the liquid precursor (such as a plate closely spaced apart from the surface of the porous substrate).
US08163338B2	Precursor selection method for chemical vapor deposition techniques A method of precursor selection for thin film deposition is provided, that includes a group of precursors, using a rule-set for selecting one or more candidate precursors for thermal stability, high growth rate, and low contamination. Candidate geometries and constituent geometries are simulated and optimized, and bond strengths of the candidates and constituents are determined. The rule-set is based on bond strength that compares molecule and constituent energies between a set of bond strengths within a candidate ligand or between a metal atom and one ligand. The rule-set requires metal atom-ligand bonds are between 0.2 and 3 eV, metal atom-ligand bond strengths are less than metal atom-ligand bond strengths of other candidates. The metal atom-ligand bond strength is >TΔS, where T is a reaction temperature and ΔS is the reaction entropy change and the bond within a ligand, where (ligand bond)>(metal atom and ligand bond).
US08163334B2	Method and apparatus for applying electrode mixture paste A method for applying an electrode mixture paste includes unwinding a core material wound in a coil shape; applying an electrode mixture paste to both sides of the core material; adjusting an application amount of the electrode mixture paste; drying a paste-coated sheet with the electrode mixture paste applied to the both sides thereof; and winding the paste-coated sheet in a coil shape. The electrode mixture paste is circulated and supplied by a circulation means having a storage function and a stirring function. The application method can achieve stable application accuracy even when a paste-coated sheet is continuously produced using a plurality of lots of electrode mixture pastes containing different types of powders having a large difference in the specific gravity.
US08163333B2	Optical member, optical system using the optical member, and method of manufacturing an optical member Provided is an optical member capable of keeping a high performance antireflection effect over a long period of time with respect to an arbitrary substrate. The optical member has plural layers on a substrate, and includes at least one metal oxide layer having a void, and at least one layer containing an organic resin as a main component formed between the substrate and the metal oxide layer. The metal oxide layer is a plate crystal layer formed of a plate crystal containing aluminum oxide as a main component and a surface of the plate crystal layer has an uneven profile. The organic resin has an aromatic ring and/or a hetero ring in at least a part thereof.
US08163332B2	Electrode manufacturing apparatus and electrode manufacturing method An electrode manufacturing apparatus comprises a conveying section for conveying a current collector sheet having a plurality of through holes; a backup roll for guiding the conveyed current collector sheet; an applicator for supplying a coating liquid to the current collector sheet on the backup roll; and a nip roll for pressing a part of the current collector sheet where the coating liquid is not supplied yet from the applicator against the backup roll.
US08163327B2	Hydrophilic polymeric coatings for medical articles The invention provides a durable, lubricious coating for a medical article that can be prepared from a first polymer that is synthetic, soluble in a polar liquid, and having first reactive groups, and a second polymer that is synthetic, hydrophilic, and that includes second reactive groups. The first reactive groups and a portion of the second reactive groups react to bond the first polymer to the second polymer. A portion of the second reactive groups remains unbonded which, upon neutralization, provide lubricious properties to the coating. In some aspects the coating is formed using a crosslinking agent having latent reactive groups. The coatings provide particularly long dry out times and are very useful for catheterization processes. In addition, the coatings can be subject to sterilization with ethylene oxide and retain very good durable and lubricious properties.
US08163326B2	Implantable or insertable medical devices visible under magnetic resonance imaging Disclosed is an implantable or insertable medical device comprising (a) a substrate and (b) a hydrogel polymer coating at a least a portion of the surface of the substrate, wherein the hydrogel polymer is adapted to render the medical device visible under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) upon insertion or implantation of the medical device into a patient. Also disclosed is the use of such a hydrogel coated implantable or insertable medical device in a medical procedure, wherein during or after insertion or implantation of the medical device in a patient, the position of the medical device is viewed under MRI. The use of a hydrogel polymer for coating a medical device wherein the hydrogel polymer is adapted to render a medical device coated with the hydrogel polymer visible under MRI and a hydrogel polymer adapted to render a medical device coated therewith visible under MRI are also disclosed.
US08163324B2	Production of low calorie, extruded, expanded foods having a high fiber content An extruded, directly expanded, high fiber reduced calorie food product, such as a ready-to-eat (RTE) cereal or sweet or savory snack, is produced at high production rates without substantial loss of extrusion functionality and extrudability by replacing a substantial portion of at least one flour with a gelatinized, enzyme-resistant starch type III ingredient or bulking agent as a reduced-calorie, high fiber flour replacer. The resistant starch type III ingredient or bulking agent contains an enzyme-resistant starch type III having a melting point with an endothermic peak temperature of at least about 140° C., and may have a water-holding capacity of less than 3 grams water per gram of the starch-based bulking agent. The total dietary fiber retention of the gelatinized, starch-based bulking agent may be at least about 90% by weight after the extrusion using a die temperature of least about 100° C., and a die pressure of at least about 150 psig.
US08163315B2	Foodstuff There is provided use of a conversion agent to prepare from a food material a foodstuff comprising at least one functional ingredient, wherein the at least one functional ingredient has been generated from at least one constituent of the food material by the conversion agent.
US08163312B2	Herbal formulation for prevention and treatment of diabetes and associated complications An herbal formulation for prevention and treatment of Diabetes and associated complications comprising extracts from selected Indian medicinal herbs. The invention has associate formulations for different diabetes related complications, which are individually useful in clinical requirements such as improving renal health and preventing renal diseases, preventing diabetic retinopathy and prevention and treatment for oxidative damage to heart and blood vessels. The invention is versatile and can be processed into extracts/concentrates and further pharmacologically modified to tablets or capsules or granules or syrups or herbal health drink or inhalable herbal medicinal preparations or ocular preparations or transdermal absorbable preparations such as ointments/gels or injectable medicine.
US08163308B2	Homeopathy-based formulation A formulation comprising a potentized mixture of triturated Lichen planus tissue with histamine in the ratio of about 1:2 to about 2:1 in a vehicle, where the ratio of the mixture to the vehicle, can be varied from 1:99 to 50:50.
US08163306B2	Oral drug delivery system An oral drug delivery system comprising a coated tablet having one or more surfaces. The coated tablet further comprises a core and a coating surrounding the core. The core comprises an active ingredient composition comprising at least one active ingredient and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and a composition selected from a swellable composition and a reactive composition located in an immediate vicinity of one or more preselected surfaces. The coating is operable to be reliably removed fully from the one or more of the preselected surfaces of the tablet upon contact with an aqueous environment, but not removed from at least one of the surfaces.
US08163304B2	Breath freshening and oral cleansing product with magnolia bark extract in combination with surface active agents An oral composition for oral cleansing, breath freshening, and anti-microbial benefits includes Magnolia Bark Extract in combination with a surface active agent. The effectiveness of Magnolia Bark Extract in inhibiting biofilm formation in the oral cavity is increased by a synergistic combination of the Magnolia Bark Extract with a surface active agent in an oral cavity delivery agent, such as chewing gum, a confectionary, a lozenge, a compressed tablet, and an edible film.
US08163300B2	Method for enhancing dispersion of inorganic compounds using silicone-containing esters and compositions formed therefrom A cosmetic composition comprising: (a) an aqueous and/or oil phase comprising: (i) water, and (ii) at least one cosmetically active ingredient; (b) a coupling agent; and (c) an oil phase comprising: (i) an isoparaffin solvent, and (ii) a silicone-containing solvent having the formula:
US08163297B2	Live attenuated aldolase-negative bacterial vaccine The present invention relates to live attenuated bacteria for use in a medicament. The invention also relates to vaccines based upon such bacteria useful for the prevention of microbial pathogenesis and to the use of such bacteria for the manufacture of a vaccine. Finally, the invention relates to methods for the preparation of such vaccines.
US08163294B2	Growth regulatable recombinant BCG compositions Immunogenic compositions comprising growth regulatable recombinant attenuated intracellular pathogens that have been transformed to express recombinant immunogenic antigens of the same or other intracellular pathogens are provided. Exemplary immunogenic compositions include, growth regulatable and growth limited recombinant attenuated intracellular pathogen immunogenic compositions.
US08163286B2	Anti-IL-22RA antibodies and binding partners and methods of using in inflammation The present invention relates to blocking, inhibiting, reducing, antagonizing or neutralizing the activity of IL-22, IL-20, or both IL-20 and IL-22 polypeptide molecules. IL-20 and IL-22 are cytokines that are involved in inflammatory processes and human disease. IL-22RA (zcytor11) is a common receptor for IL-20 and IL-22. The present invention includes anti-IL-22RA antibodies and binding partners, as well as methods for antagonizing IL-22 or both IL-20 and IL-22 using such antibodies and binding partners.
US08163283B2	Monoclonal antibodies against gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor Monoclonal antibodies against gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor induce cellular apoptosis of various cancer cells expressing this surface receptor. The monoclonal antibodies and their humanized forms, or fragments thereof, can serve as anti-cancer agents for the treatment of cancer in humans, and can function as analogs of GnRH to affect regulation of reproductive functions or fertility in humans.
US08163281B2	Treatment of drug-related side effect and tissue damage by targeting the CD24-HMGB1-Siglec10 axis The present technology provides methods and compositions for the treatment of tissue-damage related immune dysregulation by administering a composition comprising one or more of CD24; CD24 fragments, variants and derivatives, CD24Fc fusion proteins; HMBG1-binding proteins, binding proteins to HMBG1 Box B; antagonists of HMGB1, polyclonal, monoclonal, recombinant, chimeric, humanized scFv antibodies and antibody fragments to HMGB1 or fragments of HMGB1 and antibodies that bind and suppress the activity of HMGB1 Box B; Siglec 10 agonists such as anti-Siglec 10 antibodies; and combinations thereof to a patient.
US08163280B2	Antibodies to c-Met The present invention relates to antibodies including human antibodies and antigen-binding portions thereof that specifically bind to c-Met, preferably human c-Met, and that function to inhibit c-Met. The invention also relates to human anti-c-Met antibodies and antigen-binding portions thereof. The invention also relates to antibodies that are chimeric, bispecific, derivatized, single chain antibodies or portions of fusion proteins. The invention also relates to isolated heavy and light chain immunoglobulins derived from human anti-c-Met antibodies and nucleic acid molecules encoding such immunoglobulins. The present invention also relates to methods of making human anti-c-Met antibodies, compositions comprising these antibodies and methods of using the antibodies and compositions for diagnosis and treatment. The invention also provides gene therapy methods using nucleic acid molecules encoding the heavy and/or light immunoglobulin molecules that comprise the human anti-c-Met antibodies. The invention also relates to transgenic animals or plants comprising nucleic acid molecules of the present invention.
US08163270B2	Methods of diagnosing and treating migraine The present invention provides methods of diagnosing migraine attacks and determining predisposition of an individual to the development of migraine based on sodium level in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and/or brain extracellular fluid. The invention also provides methods of treating migraine, wherein the individual is selected for treatment based in the individual's sodium level in the CSF and/or brain extracellular fluid. The CSF sodium level may be based on the sodium concentration in the saliva.
US08163269B2	Bioactive stents for type II diabetics and methods for use thereof The present invention is based on the discovery that a vascular stent or other implantable medical device can be coated with a biodegradable biocompatible polymer to which is attached a bioligand that specifically captures progenitors of endothelial cells (PECs) from the circulating blood to promote endogenous formation of healthy endothelium in Type II diabetics. In one embodiment, the bioligand is a peptide that specifically binds to an integrin receptor on PECs. The invention also provides methods for using such vascular stents and other implantable devices to promote vascular healing in Type II diabetics, for example following mechanical intervention.
US08163261B2	System and method for making Si2H6 and higher silanes A method for making a higher silane from a lower silane comprises heating a lower silane containing stream without exposing it to temperatures more than 20° C. more than the maximum temperature of a first reaction temperature range. The heated lower silane containing stream is introduced into a first reaction zone and allowed to react. The method further comprises mixing a first gaseous mixture from the first reaction zone with a higher silane containing stream and introducing the mixed streams into a second reaction zone operating within a second reaction temperature range. A second gaseous mixture exiting the second reaction zone is separated into various streams. One stream containing unreacted lower silanes is recycled to an earlier heating step and first reaction zone. The higher silane containing stream is mixed with the first gaseous mixture. Average residence time is low to prevent decomposition and formation of undesired silane byproducts.
US08163252B2	Kit for taking biopsies, autopsies, excisions, and resections and methods thereof The present invention relates to a kit for taking biopsies, resections, excisions, and/or autopsies. Moreover, the present invention relates to methods of taking biopsies resections, excisions, and/or autopsies using the kit of the present invention. The kits and methods of the present invention allow for fewer errors, decreased turn around time and/or more rapid processing due to a cassette and specimen numbering system that is simplified and superior over that which has been previously disclosed in the prior art. The kit of the present invention comprises one or more tissue cassettes, and optionally one or more bottles of formalin and optionally, other components.
US08163251B2	Transfer port and method for transferring sterile items A sterile enclosure contains a transfer module defining a window. A port covers the window to maintain the inside of the enclosure as a sealed and sterile environment. A sliding, heated cutting element mounted on the port serves to sterilize and sever a portion of a sterile transfer bag assembly attached to the port. Preferably, the excised portion of the sterile transfer bag assembly is affixed to the port when the port opens. The sliding cutting element remains extended and heated to prevent contamination when the port is open. Further, a heating element is mounted about the window in order to sterilize around the opening when the port is open.
US08163248B2	Method for mixing liquids and liquid mixing apparatus According to the method of an aspect of the present invention, by forming the laminated body of the liquids by laminating a plurality of liquids after discharging the plurality of liquids from a central portion of the rotational stage onto the rotational stage and rotating the rotational stage after the formation, the centrifugal force by the rotation enables the laminated body to form a thin layer. Accordingly, because the diffusion between the layers can be executed rapidly in the latter mixing process, a mixing of liquids is allowed to advance immediately.
US08163247B2	Process for upgrading FCC product with additional reactor with catalyst recycle A process is disclosed for contacting feed with mixed catalyst in a secondary reactor that is incorporated into an FCC reactor. The mixed catalyst used in the secondary reactor is regenerated catalyst from a regenerator that regenerates spent catalyst from an FCC reactor that is mixed with spent catalyst from either the FCC reactor or the secondary reactor. The mixing of spent and regenerated catalyst reduces the catalyst temperature and tempers catalyst activity to inhibit both thermal and catalytic cracking reactions.
US08163245B2	Microfluidics system for mixing at least two starting materials A microfluidics system for mixing at least two starting materials having a prescribed number of parallel and identical mixing or reaction branches, in which a number of supply ducts corresponding to the number of starting materials open into a mixing or reaction channel. Each of the supply ducts includes an intake line for each starting material, an injection pump for each supply duct and a valve circuit between each intake line for a starting material, where the supply ducts for a respective starting material and a respective injection pump are provided to each respective supply duct. The valve circuit is configured to connect the injection pumps to the suction line in a first valve position, shut off the injection pumps in a second valve position, and to connect the injection pumps to the associated inlet channels in a third valve position. Each of the injection pumps, which are connected to each valve circuit, have a common drive. All mixing or reaction branches connected in parallel can thus be supplied with the same volumetric flow of starting material.
US08163233B2	Martensitic stainless steel for welded structures A martensitic stainless steel for welded structures including by mass %, C: 0.001 to 0.05%, Si: 0.05 to 1%, Mn: 0.05 to 2%, P: 0.03% or less, REM: 0.0005 to 0.1%, Cr: 8 to 16%, Ni: 0.1 to 9% and sol. Al: 0.001 to 0.1%; and further including one or more elements selected from among Ti: 0.005 to 0.5%, Zr: 0.005 to 0.5%, Hf: 0.005 to 0.5%, V: 0.005 to 0.5% and Nb: 0.005 to 0.5%; and O: 0.005% or less, N: 0.1% or less, with the balance being Fe and impurities; and the P and REM content satisfies: P≦0.6×REM. This steel possesses excellent SCC (stress corrosion cracking) resistance in welded sections in Sweet environments.
US08163227B2	Nanofiber spinning method and device A nanofiber spinning method and device for producing a high strength and uniform yarn made of nanofibers. The device includes: a nanofiber producing unit (2) which produces nanofibers (11) by extruding polymer solution, prepared by dissolving polymeric substances in a solvent, through small holes (7) and charging the polymer solution, and by allowing the polymer solution to be stretched by an electrostatic explosion, and which allows the nanofibers to travel in a single direction; a collecting electrode unit (3) to which an electric potential different from that of the charged polymer solution is applied, and which attracts the produced nanofibers (11) while simultaneously rotating and twisting the nanofibers, and gathers them for forming a yarn (20) made of the nanofibers (11); and a collecting unit (5) which collects the yarn (20) passed through the center of the collecting electrode unit (3).
US08163226B2	Stabilized polyethylene material Stabilized polyethylene materials which offer an advantageously balanced combination of thermal, mechanical and processing properties, and which maintain their physical properties in chlorinated water environments are disclosed. The materials include an antioxidant system with components to provide extraction resistance in hot water environments and additionally provides oxidation resistance to both chlorine in the water interior of the pipe and oxygen in contact with the pipe's exterior.
US08163225B2	Method and apparatus for manufacturing plastic containers with infrared absorption monitoring An apparatus and a method for manufacturing plastic containers, where the plastic containers are produced from aplastic material such as recycled plastic. The plastic preforms are heated in a heating unit and expanded into plastic containers in an expansion device. An infrared absorption degree of the plastic material or of the plastic preforms produced from said plastic material is then examined at least once in the course of the production process. From this examination conclusions can be drawn with respect to the quality of the preforms and their behavior when they are being heated.
US08163223B2	Injection molding machine and control method thereof When controlling each operational process in a molding cycle by variably controlling the number of revolutions of a drive motor 3 in a hydraulic pump 2, a hydraulic pump 2 where at least multiple fixed discharge flow rate Qo and Qs can be set is used as the hydraulic pump 2. At the same time, the fixed discharge flow rates Qo . . . are set corresponding to operational processes based upon predetermined conditions in advance, respectively, and the hydraulic pump 2 is switched to the fixed discharge flow rates Qo . . . by corresponding to each operational process at the time of molding. At the same time, each operational process is controlled by variably controlling the number of revolutions of the drive motor 3.
US08163222B2	Machine head for production of a surface relief A machine head for producing a surface relief on a substrate, the machine head comprising a flexible stamping element having a curved profile and an inverse of the surface relief on its convex side; and the flexibility of the element being such that the inverse of the surface relief can be pressed to become flat and in planar contact with the substrate being pressed.
US08163221B2	Process for producing reinforcing fiber molding A method of forming, on a strip-shaped laminate of multiple reinforcing fiber sheets superimposed one upon another, two flexures with respect to the cross-section configuration thereof, wherein in the forming of the two flexures with the use of two flexure forming dies independent from each other, respectively, the two flexure forming dies are arranged so that the relative distance of the two flexure forming dies is changeable in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the strip-shaped laminate. This method can be effectively utilized in the production of a reinforcing fiber molding with changing of the distance between the two flexures namely, width of web portion or gauge between two flange portions from the strip-shaped laminate, or the production of fiber reinforced resin (FRP) molding therefrom.
US08163219B2	Helicopter blade mandrel 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, which are assembled to provide a structure that is sufficiently strong to maintain the spar shape during pre-cure lay up, compaction and curing of the composite material. The multiple components used to form the mandrel can be separated from each other and easily removed from the spar either before or after curing of the composite material. The mandrel components can then be re-assembled and re-used to form additional composite spars.
US08163217B2	Method of making heat-resistant transparent container This invention relates to a method of making a heat-resistant transparent container which involves the steps of: a primary stretching and heat-setting process wherein an amorphous polyethylene terephthalate sheet is heated, primarily stretched and then primarily heat-set and a secondary stretching and heat-setting process wherein the sheet treated in the primary stretching and heat-setting process is molded with heating in a mold of a thermoforming machine while secondary stretching is performed, followed by secondary heat-setting in the same mold.
US08163216B2	Method for producing a film web The invention relates to a method for producing a film web during which an initial film web made of thermoplastic polymer material with a polyethylene matrix, in which 1 to 70 parts by weight of polypropylene, with regard to 100 parts by weight of polyethylene matrix, are contained, is, after being heated, guided through a cooled roll gap (7, 8), whereby the initial film web is heated only until the polymer matrix material melts but not to a temperature at which the polypropylene melts.
US08163214B2	Conveyor belt A thermoplastic endless belt has a smooth outer surface substantially free of discontinuities and an inner surface with a plurality of teeth at a given belt pitch. The teeth are adapted to engage a sprocket with circumferentially spaced sheaves at a sprocket pitch greater than the belt pitch. The belt is slightly stretchable so that the sprocket can drive the endless belt when engaging the teeth within a range of load on the belt. The belt is preferred for use in conveyors in food processing industries where the smooth outer surface can transport food items and is easier to clean and keep free of impurities.
US08163213B2	Method of reducing crimp in woven sailcloth A method of reducing crimp in woven sailcloth comprising applying heat to warp yarn or fill yarn prior to the yarns being woven into fabric and a method of making a sail comprising assembling panels of sailcloth comprising warp yarns and fill yarns, wherein at least one panel of sailcloth is prepared by applying heat to the warp yarn or the fill yarn prior to the yarns being weaved into fabric.
US08163212B2	Process for producing pellet of ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer The present invention provides a process for producing pellet of EVOH comprising the steps of introducing an EVOH solution containing alcohol into an apparatus, contacting the solution with water in the apparatus to let out the alcohol with water and then letting out an EVOH hydrous composition from the above-mentioned apparatus (step 1); cutting the EVOH hydrous composition let out therefrom to obtain EVOH hydrous composition pellets (step 2); introducing the obtained EVOH hydrous composition pellets into a dryer to reduce a water content thereof (step 3); melt-kneading the pellets, whose water content is reduced, in an extruder (step 4); and cutting EVOH discharged from the extruder to obtain the pellet of EVOH (step 5). Thus, the EVOH hydrous composition obtained by removing alcohol without deteriorating the environment can be efficiently dried, and pellets having less thermal degradation in drying and a uniform shape can be obtained.
US08163211B2	Panel and method for manufacturing the same It is an object of the present invention to provide a panel capable of obtaining sufficient strength, weight reduction and sound absorbing performance. A space is formed by an inner thin plate fixed to the inner surface of an outer thin plate, and a foam material is filled in the space. The foam material is preferably a highly foamable rubber sound absorbing material. In the inner thin plate, a perimetrical side part and perimetrical edge part for forming the space, and a concave part for enhancing the strength of the panel are drawn to the side of the outer thin plate. The bottom faces of the perimetrical edge part and concave part of the inner thin plate are bonded to the outer thin plate using a thermosetting adhesive.
US08163204B2	Nanoporous polymer electrolyte A nanoporous polymer electrolyte and methods for making the polymer electrolyte are disclosed. The polymer electrolyte comprises a crosslinked self-assembly of a polymerizable salt surfactant, wherein the crosslinked self-assembly includes nanopores and wherein the crosslinked self-assembly has a conductivity of at least 1.0×10−6 S/cm at 25° C. The method of making a polymer electrolyte comprises providing a polymerizable salt surfactant. The method further comprises crosslinking the polymerizable salt surfactant to form a nanoporous polymer electrolyte.
US08163202B2	(Oxy) nitride phosphor, white light-emitting device including the (oxy) nitride phosphor, method of preparing phosphor, and nitride phosphor prepared by the method Provided is an (oxy)nitride phosphor, which is a compound represented by Formula 1 below: {M(1-x)Eux}aSibOcNd wherein, M is an alkaline earth metal; and 0
US08163197B2	Azeotropic compositions comprising fluorinated olefins for cleaning applications The present invention relates to azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions comprising a fluorinated olefin having the formula E- or Z—C3F7CH═CHC3F7, and at least one alcohol, halocarbon, hydrofluorocarbon, fluoroether, or alkanes and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the one compound selected from the group consisting of alcohols, halocarbons, fluoroalkyl ethers, hydrofluorocarbons, alkanes is either methanol, ethanol, iso-propanol, n-propanol, trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, cis-1,2-dichloroethylene, n-propyl bromide, C4F9OCH3, C4F9OC2H5, HFC-43-10mee, HFC-365mfc, heptane, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, these compositions are useful in cleaning applications as a degreasing agent or defluxing agent for removing oils and/or other residues from a surface.
US08163195B2	Additives for electrolyte solution and electrolyte solution An additive of the formula (1) for use in electrolytic solutions wherein A is —CH(X)— or —C═C(X)—, X being hydrogen, halogen, alkyl having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, alkoxycarbonyl having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, benzoyl or alkoxycarbonylalkyl having 3 to 9 carbon atoms, Q1 and Q2 are the same or different and are each alkyl having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, alkoxyl having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, alkoxycarbonylalkyl having 3 to 9 carbon atoms or amino having as a substituent alkyl having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and A, Q1 and Q2 may form a ring structure.
US08163193B2	Modifier of lithium ion battery and method for making the same A modifier of a lithium ion battery includes a mixture of a phosphorus source having a phosphate radical, a trivalent aluminum source, and a metallic oxide in a liquid phase solvent. A method for making the modifier of the lithium ion battery. In the method, a phosphorus source having a phosphate radical, a trivalent aluminum source, and a metallic oxide are provided. The phosphorus source, the trivalent aluminum source, and the metallic oxide are mixed in a liquid phase solvent to form a clear solution.
US08163192B2	Hydroseed substrate and method of making such An application for a substrate for mixing with other ingredients such as water, seeds, fertilizer, wetting agents and dye, to produce Hydroseeding slurry. The substrate includes cardboard (e.g. double-line, Kraft fibers), paper (e.g. recycled newsprint) and a material known as diaper fluff that is created during the production of products such as disposable diapers. The diaper fluff improves moisture retention, improves viscosity and reduces friction, improves coverage.
US08163187B2	Process of producing liquid discharge head Provided is a process of producing a liquid discharge head having a substrate, a passage-forming member, and a patterned layer. The process includes providing a resin layer on a substrate; providing a resist pattern on the resin layer for patterning the resin layer; forming a patterned layer by patterning the resin layer using the resist pattern as a mask; providing a layer for forming a passage pattern having a shape of passage on the resist pattern lying on the patterned layer; forming a passage pattern by patterning the layer for forming a passage pattern; removing the resist pattern; providing a passage-forming member so as to cover the passage pattern and the patterned layer; and removing the passage pattern to give the passage.
US08163185B1	Method and apparatus for lifting off photoresist beneath an overlayer A method of lifting off photoresist beneath an overlayer includes providing a structure including photoresist and depositing an overlayer impenetrable to a liftoff solution over the photoresist and a field region around the structure. The method also includes forming a mask over the structure and ion milling to remove the overlayer in the field region not covered by the mask. The method then includes lifting off the photoresist using the liftoff solution.
US08163184B2	Apparatus and method for separating and concentrating fluids containing multiple components An apparatus is disclosed that allows for separating and collecting a fraction of a sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at least three fractions in the apparatus. It also provides for a new method of extracting the buffy coat phase from a whole blood sample. A buoy system that may include a first buoy portion and a second buoy member operably interconnected may be used to form at least three fractions from a sample during a substantially single centrifugation process. Therefore, the separation of various fractions may be substantially quick and efficient.
US08163182B2	Compartmentalized field flow fractionation A field flow fractionator to separate particles contained within an injected sample aliquot is described. As required, said fractionator may be used to capture, for subsequent removal, specific predefined classes of such particles. Based upon the cross flow or asymmetric flow field flow fractionators, the fractionator disclosed contains means to vary the applied transverse flows at a plurality of locations along the length of its separating channel. A plurality of separated compartments, each lying below a distinct and corresponding membrane supporting permeable frit segment, are provided individual means to control the localized flow through the membrane section thereabove. A corresponding concentric compartment implementation achieves the same type of compartmentalized cross flow when integrated with a hollow fiber fractionator.
US08163181B2	Apparatus and method for treating FGD blowdown or similar liquids A process has steps of one or more of aerobic treatment to remove COD and nitrify a waste stream, anoxic treatment to denitrify a waste stream, anoxic treatment to remove selenium and anaerobic treatment to remove heavy metals and sulphur. The process may be used to treat, for example, FGD blow down water. The process may further include one or more of (a) membrane separation of the waste stream upstream of the anoxic digestion to remove selenium, (b) dilution upstream of the biological treatment step, (c) physical/chemical pretreatment upstream of the biological processes or dilution step to remove TSS and soften the waste stream, or (d) ammonia stripping upstream of the biological treatment steps or dilutions step. These processes may be provided in a variety of suspended growth or fixed film reactors, for example a membrane bioreactor or a fixed film reactor having a GAC bed. Processes for biological treatment of inorganic compounds in a fixed medium reactor is described including steps of one or more of maintaining desired ORP levels, optionally by controlling nutrient addition, and removing solids or gas bubbles from the medium bed.
US08163180B2	Process and installation for anaerobic treatment of material having high solids concentration The invention relates to a process for anaerobic treatment of material having a solids concentration greater than 15% in a digester in the form of a sealed tank (1) equipped with means (2) for supplying material to be treated and means (3) for discharging digested material and also vertical homogenization means (6) in the form of injectors for injecting a gaseous fluid into the bottom (7) of the tank (1). Through distribution in the tank (1) of the material supply means (2) relative to the discharge means (3) and using vertical homogenization means (6) that guarantee the homogeneity of the material treated by vertical sectors (8) in the tank, conferred on the material in the tank (1) is a forced unidirectional circulation that is uniform throughout the entire cross section of this tank, and along one substantially horizontal component, between said supply means (2) and said discharge means (3). The invention also relates to an installation for implementing such a process.
US08163178B2	Filter A filter has a filter housing having an interior. A drainage device is provided that has a collecting cup, a fastening screw for the collecting cup, and a threaded part secured in the filter housing and provided with an inner thread for receiving the fastening screw. The threaded part has an outer surface with at least one drainage passage connecting the interior of the filter housing to the collecting cup. The filter housing has a cup-shaped receptacle for the threaded part and the cup-shaped receptacle has a securing wall that at least partially extends about a circumference of the cup-shaped receptacle. The threaded part is a press-fit bushing pressed into the receptacle. The press-fit bushing has a circumferential wall provided with a circumferential contact surface secured by the securing wall and extending at least partially about a circumference of the press-fit bushing.
US08163171B2	Ultra pure fluids The invention relates to hydrocarbon fluids having high purity with respect to at least one of sulfur species, nitrogen species, oxygenated species, and unsaturated species, particularly hydrocarbon fluids low in aromatics, a method of making said hydrocarbon fluids, a catalyst for use in said method, an apparatus whereby said method may be practiced, and uses of said fluids.
US08163166B2	Systems and methods of producing a crude product The present invention is directed to a crude product composition. The crude product composition has, per gram of crude product: at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution of at most 204° C. at 0.101 MPa, at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution between about 204° C. and about 300° C. at 0.101 MPa, at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution between about 300° C. and about 400° C. at 0.101 MPa, and at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution between about 400° C. and about 538° C. at 0.101 MPa. The hydrocarbons that have a boiling range distribution of at most 204° C. comprise iso-paraffins and n-paraffins with a weight ratio of the iso-paraffins to the n-paraffins of at most 1.4.
US08163161B2	Gas sensor and method for detecting particles in a gas flow A gas sensor for detecting particles in a gas stream has a first electrochemical pump cell, which has a measuring chamber in which a first electrode is disposed to pump particles between the first measuring chamber and the gas stream. Furthermore, a second electrochemical pump cell is provided, which has a second measuring chamber in which a second electrode is disposed so as to pump particles. The second measuring chamber is connected to the gas stream via an absorber medium for absorption of the particles to be detected. This makes it possible to absorb the particles to be detected in a first operating mode using the absorber medium, and to desorb the absorbed particles in a second operating mode, and to detect the quantity of the desorbed particles. Thus, the gas sensor is able to take even low concentrations into account, and short-term measuring errors do not have such a serious effect.
US08163159B2	Enclosing manufacture with a magnesium sacrificial anode for corrosion protection Techniques generally describe articles of enclosing manufacture and methods related to containers including a magnesium sacrificial anode for corrosion protection. Example articles of enclosing manufacture may include a liner or a rod that is configured as a sacrificial anode to protect a metallic side or end wall of the enclosing manufacture from corrosion. Other embodiments may be disclosed and claimed.
US08163158B2	Operation of an electrolysis cell An electrolysis cell is controlled for operation under varying electrical power supply conditions. A flow of feed stock to the cell includes an electrolysis reactant at a controlled concentration. A varying amount of electrical power is supplied to the cell to produce an electrolysis reaction that generates a first reaction product at a first side of the cell and a second reaction product at a second side of the cell. The reactant concentration is adjusted as the electrical power varies to substantially maintain the cell at its thermal neutral voltage during cell operation. The cell may be used in an electrolysis system powered by a renewable energy source with varying power output (e.g., wind, solar, etc.).
US08163154B1	Method for voltage-gated protein fractionation We report unique findings on the voltage dependence of protein exclusion from the pores of nanoporous polymer exclusion membranes. The pores are small enough that proteins are excluded from passage with low applied electric fields, but increasing the field enables proteins to pass through. The requisite field necessary for a change in exclusion is protein-specific with a correlation to protein size. The field-dependence of exclusion is important to consider for preconcentration applications. The ability to selectively gate proteins at exclusion membranes is also a promising means for manipulating and characterizing proteins. We show that field-gated exclusion can be used to selectively remove proteins from a mixture, or to selectively trap protein at one exclusion membrane in a series.
US08163153B2	Tool for extracting electrophoretic sample A gel extraction device (10) comprises a hollow cutting member (12) having cutting edge (14) at one end and a squeeze bulb (16) at the other end. In a further embodiment, the air passage between the cutting edge and the bulb has a constriction zone (20) to prevent any extracted gel from being drawn too deeply into the extractor, in another embodiment, a blow-hole in the hollow cutting member or in the squeeze bulb provides for the passage of air displaced by gel through the extractor. The blow-hole may be covered to secure the gel in the receptacle for transfer from the matrix to a sample container.
US08163150B2	Electrowetting dispensing devices and related methods A method for dispensing liquid for use in biological analysis may comprise positioning liquid to be dispensed via electrowetting. The positioning may comprise aligning the liquid with a plurality of predetermined locations. The method may further comprise dispensing the aligned liquid from the plurality of predetermined locations through a plurality of openings respectively aligned with the predetermined locations. The dispensing may be via electrowetting.
US08163148B2	Gas sensor element A gas sensor element including: a sensor layer in which at least one pair of electrodes are provided in a solid electrolyte for measuring an electromotive force based on a difference in an oxygen concentration between atmospheres; and a heater layer which includes a heater element with a heat generating portion and an electrically insulating layer disposed so as to enclose the heater element and which is configured to heat, by an electric current supplied to the heater element, at least a portion of the solid electrolyte at which the at least one pair of electrodes are provided, the sensor layer and the heater layer being laminated integrally on each other, wherein the electrically insulating layer contains at least one metal oxide selected from the group consisting of alkali metal oxide and alkaline earth metal oxide.
US08163147B2	Subsystems and methods for use in patch clamp systems Subsystems and methods for use in patch clamp systems are provided. For example, in certain embodiments, compensation circuitry is used to compensate for non-idealities present in the patch clamp system. The accuracy of this compensation may be verified by employing, for example, circuitry that models the patch clamp system.
US08163145B2	Method and apparatus for controlling topographical variation on a milled cross-section of a structure An improved method of controlling topographical variations when milling a cross-section of a structure, which can be used to reduce topographical variation on a cross-section of a write-head in order to improve the accuracy of metrology applications. Topographical variation is reduced by using a protective layer that comprises a material having mill rates at higher incidence angles that closely approximate the mill rates of the structure at those higher incidence angles. Topographical variation can be intentionally introduced by using a protective layer that comprises a material having mill rates at higher incidence angles that do not closely approximate the mill rates of the structure at those higher incidence angles.
US08163137B2	Apparatus for cleaning and/or cooling a liquor gun in a chemical recovery boiler An apparatus for cleaning and cooling a liquor nozzle, the nozzle including at least a liquor tube for feeding liquor and chemicals into a furnace of a recovery boiler. The apparatus includes an outer casing tube, which defines a space whereto conduits are provided for introducing water and steam to generate an emulsion or a conduit for introducing emulsion generated by the water and steam and the surface of which is provided with openings, such as pores or holes, for discharging the emulsion formed by water and steam through the outer casing.
US08163133B2	Dispersion The invention relates to an aqueous dispersion useful for internal sizing or surface sizing in the production of paper, comprising at least one cellulose reactive sizing agent selected from the group consisting of ketene dimers and multimers, at least one cellulose non-reactive sizing agent and at least one emulsifier selected from the group consisting of oxyalkylene phosphate and sulfate esters and salts thereof. The invention further concerns a process for its preparation, use thereof, and processes for the production of paper.
US08163130B2	Paper product having unique physical properties A paper product having a plurality of tessellating unit cells forming a pattern is disclosed. Each unit cell has a center and at least two continuous land areas extending in at least two directions from the center and a plurality of pillow areas each surrounded by at least one of the continuous land areas. Each of the continuous land areas at least bifurcates to form a continuous land area portion having a first width before bifurcation and at least two continuous land area portions having a second width after bifurcation. The first width is greater than the second width. Each of the continuous land area portions having the first width has a first number density and each of the at least two continuous land area portions having the second width has a second number density. The first number density is less than the second number density.
US08163127B2	Process for manufacturing a packaging material A process for manufacturing a packaging material with at least two films (12,16) or foils bonded together via at least one adhesive layer (13) to form a multi-layer laminate (10) is such that at least one adhesive layer is an electron-beam-curable adhesive and the laminate (10) is radiated with electrons in order to cure the adhesive. The laminate is particularly suitable for manufacturing pouch-type forms of packaging, in particular for snack foods. The production of laminate using electron-beam-curable adhesive results in a significant reduction in throughput time and in a reduction of solvent emissions by replacing solvent-based adhesives with electron-beam-curable adhesives.
US08163120B2	Adhesive for production of IC card, process for producing IC card, and IC card A process for producing an IC card comprising: an application/bonding step of applying an adhesive having a curing rate ratio (80° C./40° C.) of 30 or more on the surface of an inlet film, on which a number of IC modules are mounted, and/or a skin film for covering at least one surface of the inlet film, and bonding the inlet film and the skin film together to form a laminate film; a curing step of curing the adhesive to form a cured resin layer between the inlet film and the skin film of the laminate film; and a card forming step of forming a number of IC cards by dividing the laminate film for each IC module.
US08163118B2	Thermoformable web splicer and method An apparatus and method are provided for splicing together old and new thermoformable sheets in order to supply a continuous thermoforming operation. The method for joining together thermoformable sheets includes: providing a first thermoformable sheet with a trailing edge and a second thermoformable sheet with a leading edge; forming a terminal edge portion with a hot element along the trailing edge and a complementary terminal edge portion along the leading edge by severing a scrap sheet from each portion; laterally retracting each scrap portion away from the trailing edge and the leading edge; and joining together the first thermoformable sheet and the second thermoformable sheet by interlocking together the terminal edge portion with the complementary terminal edge portion.
US08163115B2	Method, system and article for producing a mailpiece envelope having improved seal integrity A method, system and article for producing an envelope having improved seal integrity. The method comprises the steps of disposing at least one material at the interface of the adhesive seal between the flap and the body portion of the envelope, which material exhibits a characteristic property when combined with an activating agent. The envelope is then sealed by closing the flap onto the body portion of the envelope such that the activating agent combines with the material along the sealing interface. The sealing interface is inspected to determine whether the material exhibits the characteristic property thereby confirming that a seal has been produced between the flap and body portion of the envelope. The system and article are directed to the various modules of a mailpiece fabrication system employed to produce the mailpiece including an inspection module for confirming that a seal has been formed.
US08163112B2	Method of fabricating a uranium-bearing foil Methods of fabricating a uranium-bearing foil are described. The foil may be substantially pure uranium, or may be a uranium alloy such as a uranium-molybdenum alloy. The method typically includes a series of hot rolling operations on a cast plate material to form a thin sheet. These hot rolling operations are typically performed using a process where each pass reduces the thickness of the plate by a substantially constant percentage. The sheet is typically then annealed and then cooled. The process typically concludes with a series of cold rolling passes where each pass reduces the thickness of the plate by a substantially constant thickness amount to form the foil.
US08163110B2	Superfine copper alloy wire and method for manufacturing same A superfine copper alloy wire has a copper-silver alloy wherein the superfine copper alloy wire has a final wire diameter of 0.05 mm or less, and the copper-silver alloy has a copper-silver eutectic crystal phase whose volume ratio to a whole volume of the superfine copper alloy wire is 3% or more and 20% or less.
US08163103B2	Dishwasher and rack assembly therefor A dishwasher is provided in which heights of basket(s) of a rack assembly may be easily changed. The dishwasher may include a frame configured to be inserted into and withdraw from a washing tub and plurality of basket positioning device configured to receive and support basket(s) at different heights.
US08163088B2	Method of densifying thin porous substrates by chemical vapor infiltration, and a loading device for such substrates To densify thin porous substrates (1) by chemical vapor infiltration, the invention proposes using loading tooling (10) comprising a tubular duct (10) disposed between first and second plates (12, 13) and around which the thin substrates for densification are disposed radially. The tooling as loaded in this way is then placed inside a reaction chamber (20) in an infiltration oven having a reactive gas admission inlet (21) connected to the tubular duct (11) to enable a reactive gas to be admitted into the duct which distributes the gas along the main faces on the substrates (1) in a flow direction that is essentially radial. The reactive gas can also flow in the opposite direction, i.e. it can be admitted into the tooling (10) from its outer envelope (16) and can be removed via the duct (11).
US08163085B2	Method and apparatus for forming protective layer An apparatus for forming a protective layer of magnesium oxide on a front glass substrate (11) in an evaporation chamber (201) includes the following: oxygen outlet openings (222) for introducing oxygen into the evaporation chamber (201); water vapor outlet openings (210) for introducing water vapor into the evaporation chamber (201) from the downstream side in the transfer direction of the front glass substrate (11); a mass analyzer (224) for measuring the ionic strength of hydrogen and the ionic strength of oxygen in the evaporation chamber (201); and mass flow controllers (215) and (221) for controlling the introduction amount of the water vapor and the introduction amount of the oxygen, respectively, by the ionic strengths measured by the mass analyzer (224).
US08163084B2	Nanostructure and manufacturing method for same The invention relates to nanostructure and its manufacturing method. In the manufacturing method of a nanostructure, first anisotropic crystalline particles, connectors having end to be connected to a specific crystal face of each of said crystalline particles, and second particles to be connected to the other end of each of said connectors are prepared. First ends of the connectors are connected to specific crystal faces of the first crystalline particles, and simultaneously or before or after the connection, the second ends of the connectors are connected to the second particles. A nanostructure formed by this method has a three-dimensional structure which does not have a closest packing structure.
US08163082B2	Method and plant for manufacturing cement clinker Manufacturing methods and plants for carrying out methods of manufacturing cement clinker including diverting gases from a separation cyclone for a calcined cement material. The diverted gases are cooled to a temperature of 850° C. or less by introducing raw cement materials into the diverted gas stream.
US08163077B2	Ink providing etch-like effect for printing on ceramic surfaces The invention relates to an ink-jet ink composition for printing on a ceramic substrate comprising: (a) a liquid vehicle; (b) sub-micron particles of binding composition having a melting point below 6000 C; and (c) sub-micron particles causing an etch-like effect, said sub-micron particles are selected from metal oxide particles, high melting point frit particles, and a combination thereof, said sub-micron particles causing an etch-like effect have a melting point of at least 500 C above the melting point of said sub-micron particles of binding composition. The invention further relates to a printing process using such ink and to a ceramic substrate printed with a pattern or image having an etch-like effect, by means of the printing process.
US08163076B2	Ink jet recording method, recorded product, ink composition for ink jet recording, ink set, ink cartridge, and ink jet recording apparatus An ink-jet recording method includes ejecting a droplet of an ink composition containing a metal pigment and optically transparent spherical particles with an ink-jet recording apparatus, the ink composition having an optically transparent spherical particle content of 0.5% to 5% by mass, and attaching the droplet to a recording surface of a recording medium having an average surface roughness Ra of 3 μm or more, thereby recording an image.
US08163068B2	Apparatus and process for isomerizing a hydrocarbon stream One exemplary embodiment can be an apparatus for isomerizing a hydrocarbon stream rich in a C4 hydrocarbon and/or at least one of a C5 and C6 hydrocarbon. The apparatus can include: a first drier and a second drier adapted to receive a fluid including at least one reactant; and a reaction zone communicating with the first drier to receive the fluid including at least one reactant and with the second drier to receive the regenerant. Generally, the first drier operates at a first condition to dry the fluid including at least one reactant and the second drier operates at a second condition during regeneration with a regenerant. The regenerant can pass through a fluid tapering device for regulating the flow of the regenerant to the reaction zone.
US08163067B2	Apparatus and process for isomerizing a hydrogen stream One exemplary embodiment can be an apparatus for isomerizing a hydrocarbon stream rich in a C4 hydrocarbon and/or at least one of a C5 and C6 hydrocarbon. The apparatus can include: a first drier and a second drier adapted to receive a fluid including at least one reactant; and a reaction zone communicating with the first drier to receive the fluid including at least one reactant and with the second drier to receive the regenerant. Generally, the first drier operates at a first condition to dry the fluid including at least one reactant and the second drier operates at a second condition during regeneration with a regenerant. The regenerant is displaced from the drier using a down-flow regenerant displacement assembly.
US08163066B2	Carbon dioxide capture/regeneration structures and techniques New and useful system and method concepts are provided, for removing carbon dioxide from a flow of carbon dioxide laden air. More specifically, a sorbent structure is used in new and useful structures and techniques to bind carbon dioxide in a carbon dioxide laden air stream, and process heat is used to separate carbon dioxide from the sorbent structure and regenerate the sorbent structure.
US08163063B2	Method of leaching copper sulfide ore with the use of iodine An object of the present invention is to provide a method of efficiently leaching copper from a copper sulfide ore containing chalcopyrite or enargite as a main constituent under versatile conditions for actual operation.A method of leaching copper from a copper sulfide ore, characterized by comprising using, as a leaching solution, a sulfuric acid solution containing iodide ions and ferric (III) ions in an excessive amount relative to the iodide ions and leaching copper from a copper sulfide ore; or a method of leaching copper from a copper sulfide ore, characterized by comprising leaching copper from a copper sulfide ore with the use of a leaching solution further containing water-soluble ligands such as chloride ions that can stabilize ferric (III) ions in addition to the above components, is provided.
US08163061B2	Method of copper precipitation in lead-free solder, granulation and separation of (CuX)6Sn5 compounds and recovery of tin A granulation method for granulating a (CuX)6Sn5 compound by passing a composition comprising a (CuX)6Sn5 compound and tin through a multi-perforated plate to granulate the (CuX)6Sn5 compound wherein X represents an element which is solved in Cu but forms a precipitate with Sn.
US08163058B2	Amino alcohol solutions of N-(n-butyl)thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) and urea fertilizers using such solutions as urease inhibitors A method of producing reduced volatility of urea fertilizers comprising: dissolving N-(n-butyl)-thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) in an amino alcohol having the formula 1—(H)x—N—((CH2)m—OH)n where m is 1-3, x is 0 or 1, and n is 2 when x is 1 and 3 when x is 0: or the formula 2—(H)y—N—((CH2)—CHOH—CH3)z such that the length of the carbon chain where the secondary hydroxyl group is located is 3, y is 0 or 1, and z is 2 when y is 1 and 3 when y is 0 to form an NBPT solution; and combining a urea fertilizer in granular or liquid form with the NBPT solution.
US08163054B1	Air filter with internal frame support An air filter having hollow support channels in its frame is disclosed. In one embodiment, the air filter comprises a support structure having a center portion and sidewalls positioned on opposite sides of the center portion, the center portion of the support structure attached to a side of a filter media, and a frame having a plurality of sections, each of the sections having a center portion and sidewalls positioned on opposite sides of the center portion, a first frame section attached to the support structure by connecting the sidewalls of first frame section to the sidewalls of the support structure to form a hollow channel between the first support structure center portion, the frame section center portion, and the sidewalls. Methods for cutting air filter sections and for attaching a frame to the air filter sections is also disclosed.
US08163050B2	Comb for inlet barrier filter system An inlet barrier filter system for mounting on an aircraft to filter air prior to intake into an engine of the aircraft includes a frame having at least two curved frame members defining an opening. A filter element has a curved inward face and is received in the opening of the frame. The filter element includes filter media having pleats. A comb is attached to the frame and includes spaced-apart teeth that support the pleats. The comb is curved to generally conform to the curved inward face of the filter.
US08163047B2	Methods and apparatus for cooling syngas in a gasifier A method of cooling hot fluid flowing through a chamber is provided. The method includes channeling cooling fluid through at least one cooling tube that extends through a passage of the chamber, and circulating the hot fluid flowing within the passage around the at least one cooling tube using at least one fluid diverter.
US08163046B2	Start-up process for a unit for producing highly thermally-integrated hydrogen by reforming a hydrocarbon feedstock The invention relates to a start-up process for a unit for producing highly thermally-integrated hydrogen by reforming a hydrocarbon feedstock that comprises a stage a wherein a burner whose purpose is to ensure start-up is supplied with a mixture of hydrocarbon feedstock and air, a stage b wherein a water stream is evaporated by indirect heat exchange with at least one of the hot streams of the process, a stage c wherein the hydrocarbon feedstock to be reformed is evaporated and heated and then introduced in gaseous form in a reforming reactor, and a stage d wherein the start-up burner is shut down, and a burner that is in permanent operation is lit.
US08163045B2	Method and system of making a burnable fuel Methods and systems are disclosed for direct conversion of a used or waste material into a burnable fuel and to burnable fuels derived therefrom.
US08163043B2	Palm-based biodiesel foundation Palm-based biodiesel formulations with enhanced cold flow properties are provided including the following: (I) A biodiesel formulation comprising not more than 40 vol % palm-based biodiesel and not less than 60 vol % petroleum-based file 1 oil; (II) A biodiesel formulation comprising not more than 20 wt % palm-based biodiesel and not less than 80 wt % alkyl ester of C6-C18 saturated or unsaturated fatty acid, or a mixture thereof; (III) A biodiesel formulation comprising approximately 0.1-1.0% (wt/vol) of a polyalkyl methacrylate (PAMA) additive and a palm-based biodiesel blend comprising i) not more than 40 vol % palm-based biodiesel; and ii) not less than 60 vol % petroleum-based fuel oil; (IV) A biodiesel formulation comprising approximately 0.1-5.0% (wt/vol) of a polyalkyl methacrylate (PAMA) additive and a palm-based biodiesel having unsaturation level of not less than 60%.
US08163042B2	Hydrocarbon fuel compositions The present invention relates to a hydrocarbon fuel composition comprising (i) at least 99% by weight of a base gas; and (ii) additives comprising (a) 2 to 50 ppm organometallic compound; and (b) 100 to 5000 ppm aniline or substituted aniline and 100 to 5000 ppm toluidine. The present invention discloses addition of an additive or additive mixture to base fuel preferably, liquefied petroleum gas. The addition of additive mixture not only improves the properties of the base fuel for use as torch gas for cutting and welding application, but also reduces the consumption of both fuel and oxygen for cutting applications.
US08163036B1	Nanophase Mn(VII) oxide (NM70) and nanophase Mn(III) oxide (NM30) incorporated nonwovens NM7O and NM3O coated clay are embedded into a fabric matrix to produce a protective fabric. A NM7O blended garment can be manufactured for the purpose of containing malodors. The destruction of chemical warfare agents can also be accomplished by incorporating these materials into disposable protective clothing for military, Haz-Mat team and First responders. The fabrics so treated with MN7O have uses as diverse as for a disposable silver polish wipe. In the case of NM3O coated clay, the treated fabric can be used as a copper and brass polish.
US08163033B2	Prosthetic device for cartilage repair A prosthetic device for repairing or replacing cartilage or cartilage-like tissue is described. The prosthetic device comprises at least one layer of highly oriented fibers, a base component and a stabilization area provided in between. Said fibers are aligned to more than 50% in a direction perpendicular to the base component.
US08163032B2	Devices and methods for treating defects in the tissue of a living being An implant for deployment in select locations or select tissue for regeneration of tissue is disclosed. The implant includes collagen and or other bio-resorbable materials, where the implant may also be used for therapy delivery. Additionally, the implant may include, or have blended in, an additive, such as an osteoinductive factor, for example biocompatible ceramics and glass.
US08163029B2	Extended radius prosthesis and associated method An acetabular shell for use in a hip prosthesis is provided. The shell includes a body having an inner periphery and a convex outer periphery and defining a cavity of the body. The outer periphery has a first portion defining a hemisphere and a second portion extending from the equator of the first portion in a converging direction. The second portion forms a rim opposed to the equator. The cavity is positioned within the rim.
US08163027B2	Tibial insert having a reinforced keel A tibial insert includes a platform defining an upper bearing surface and a bottom surface. A keel of the tibial insert is coupled to the bottom surface of the platform and a rod of the tibial insert extends through a portion of the keel. A surgical method for knee arthroplasty is also disclosed.
US08163025B2	Disc prosthesis for cervical vertebrae A disc prosthesis for vertebrae is provided. The disc prosthesis comprises a first plate, a first insert, a second plate, and a second insert. The first plate comprises a first active face and a first anchor face. The second plate comprises a second active face and a second anchor face. The first anchor face is configured to anchor the first plate to a first vertebra. The second anchor face is configured to anchor the second plate to a second vertebra. The first plate comprises a cavity for receiving the first insert. The cavity comprises a concave spherical cap. The second plate comprises an opening that connects the second active face to the second anchor face. The second insert comprises a fastener portion, said fastener portion is friction fit in the opening.
US08163024B2	Adjustable spinal prostheses Apparatus including a first spinal prosthetic member attachable to a first spinal structure, a second spinal prosthetic member attachable to a second spinal structure and articulating with the first spinal prosthetic member to form an articulating assembly, and pedicle screw mounting members extending outwards from the first and second spinal prosthetic members, at least one of the pedicle screw mounting members being movably attached to the first and second spinal prosthetic members such that the at least one pedicle screw mounting member has at least two different attachment orientations with respect to reference axes defined on one of the spinal prosthetic members.
US08163023B2	Multi-lobe artificial spine joint An artificial disc is provided which more closely matches the movement of the natural spine. The artificial disc uses one or more projections and corresponding recesses to provide a sliding articulation. The artificial joint is inherently stable in that compressive forces placed on the disc such as the weight placed upon the joint or the tension of surrounding tissues urges the joint towards a neutral position and not farther away from a neutral position.
US08163022B2	Method and apparatus for the treatment of the intervertebral disc annulus This disclosure presents methods and devices for treating a tear, rent, incision, defect, aperture or delamination of the annulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc. The methods and devices can employ fixation delivery apparatuses, fixation apparatuses, patch delivery tools and patches positioned, at least in part, in or on aspects of an intervertebral disc for treatment of the intervertebral disc or its components. In some aspects, these techniques include the use of this includes a fixation apparatus that includes at least one bone anchor connected to at least one disc anchor by a shortenable elongate member.
US08163018B2	Treatment of the vertebral column A method is provided for treating a spinal condition. The method includes introducing a biological treatment into an area of a vertebral column, and mechanically unloading the treated area by applying a load-bearing device to the anterior region, the anterior column region, the posterior region, or the spinous process region of the vertebral column.
US08163016B2	Artificial ligaments for joint applications and including ligaments crosswise extending ligaments between first and second bones A ligament incorporated into a prosthetic joint exhibiting a plasticized, elongated and deformable material. A fibrous material is internally disposed within the deformable material, the fibrous material terminating in first and second enlarged bead portions arranged in proximity to enlarged pocket defined ends associated with the deformable materials. First and second bones define a joint region therebetween, the deformable end pockets and bead portions being inserted through associated holes defined in joint proximate locations associated with the bones, so that actuation of a projection location of the fibrous material causes the bead portions to outwardly deflect the end pockets, resulting in the ligaments being anchored in place between the bones.
US08163013B2	Devices, systems, and methods for reshaping a heart valve annulus, including the use of magnetic tools Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools.
US08163012B2	Multi-planar tricuspid annuloplasty ring A multi-planar annuloplasty ring for implantation adjacent to the tricuspid valve with a gap adjacent to the apex of the triangle of Koch. The anterior part of the ring body extending from the highest point at the anteroseptal commissure down to a lower plane at the anteroposterior commissure. During this course it is curved upwards. The posterior part of the ring body extends downward towards the lowest point at the posteroseptal commissure in a relatively straight course. The septal part of the ring body extending from the lowest point at the posteroseptal commissure upwards towards the highest point at the anteroseptal commissure. During this course it is curved upward.
US08163008B2	Leaflet valve A device and method for improving flow through a native blood vessel valve, such as the aortic valve, are provided. The present invention allows a miniature valve to be implanted into affected leaflets percutaneously, obviating the need for coronary bypass surgery. The method includes the cutting of small holes, on the order of 4 mm, in the leaflets of a targeted valve, thereby allowing blood to flow through the newly formed holes. The holes are used as attachment sites for the miniature valves of the present invention.
US08163002B2	Self-sealing vascular graft The present invention relates to a segmental self-sealing graft for implantation in a patient including a base tubing element, a tubular access element overlying the base tubing, and a strand-like compression element wound over the access element so as to provide radially inward compression, and a method of making same.
US08162999B2	Ectoparasite eradication method and device A method of eliminating an ectoparasite infestation is disclosed that may include steps of defining a target area on an animal having an ectoparasite infestation, heating a volume of air to a temperature to form heated air, applying the heated air to the target area with an airflow such that the heated air impinges directly on substantially all ectoparasites located within the target area, and maintaining the heated air at the target area for a period of time sufficient to affect an ectoparasite mortality rate of at least 50%.
US08162998B2	Bone screw The invention concerns a bone screw having a distal end and a proximal end, which has the distinguishing features a shaft with a core diameter “k” and having an external thread with an external diameter “d”. The external diameter “d” of the thread or the core diameter “k” of the shaft tapers in a middle region of the shaft from a larger dimension “d2” or “k2” respectively towards the proximal end to a smaller dimension “d1” or “k1”, respectively, where “d1” and “k1” do not equal zero. Further, the shaft is provided with a concentrically disposed, radially expandable sleeve, and the sleeve being positioned on the part of the shaft which has the smaller external diameter “d1”. The bone screw may be introduced into a transverse borehole of a medullary pin. The medullary pin is provided with a continuous cannulation, which extends coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the medullary pin and has an external diameter DN and a wall thickness WN. The transverse borehole may have a diameter DB, which is larger than d2 as well as larger than dB-L5. In one embodiment, diameter DB may be approximately 90% of the diameter dB-L3 of the sleeve. The sleeve may be inserted completely into the transverse borehole and, with the flange, is in contact with the wall of a facet of the transverse borehole.
US08162996B2	Methods for repairing bone discontinuities A compression plate kit that allows for manual compression of a bone discontinuity includes a bone plate, two or more reduction screws, and a compression clamp. The compression clamp can include engagement members configured to engage the reduction screws, thereby allowing a practitioner to compress a bone discontinuity by manually closing the compression clamp. One or more implementations of a kit of the present invention can provide a practitioner with physical or tactile feedback during the compression of a bone discontinuity, and thus, provide the practitioner with the ability to better control the compression and spacing of bone portions during a reduction.
US08162994B2	Posterior stabilization system with isolated, dual dampener systems Dynamic posterior stabilization systems and methods of stabilizing vertebrae are described. A dynamic posterior stabilization system may include bone fasteners and a dampener system. The bone fasteners may be secured to the vertebrae, and the dampener system may be attached to the bone fasteners. The dampener system may include a first dampener set and a second dampener set positioned on an elongated member. The first dampener set may be compressed and provides resistance to movement of the first bone fastener towards the second bone fastener. The second dampener set may be compressed and provide resistance to movement of the first bone fastener away from the second bone fastener.
US08162990B2	Multi-axial spinal fixation system A spinal fixation system includes an elongated rod sized to extend between at least two vertebrae and a number of anchor devices for anchoring the rod to the spine. The anchor devices include a bone engaging fastener having a head defining a spherical socket. A ball insert is configured to be placed within the socket and rotated so that a spherical surface of the ball insert is juxtaposed with the spherical surface of the socket. The insert has a first dimension less than the socket opening and a second dimension that upon rotation causes the insert to be captively retained in the socket. The anchor device further includes a yoke defining a yoke channel for receiving the rod and including a stem that is engaged to the ball insert when the insert is captured within the socket. A sleeve is disposed between the yoke channel and the fastener head for supporting the rod thereon. A set screw is threaded into the yoke channel for clamping the rod against the sleeve. The set screw further operates to draw the ball insert into clamped engagement within the socket.
US08162985B2	Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine Systems and devices for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The systems include a superior component for attachment to a superior vertebra of a spinal motion segment and an inferior component for attachment to an inferior vertebral of a spinal motion segment. The interconnection between the two components enables the spinal motion segment to move in a manner that mimics the natural motion of the spinal motion segment. Methods are also provided for stabilizing the spine and for implanting the subject systems.
US08162981B2	Method and apparatus for spinal facet fusion A spinal facet fusion implant comprising: an elongated body having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal axis extending between the distal end and the proximal end, the elongated body having a cross-sectional profile characterized by a primary axis and a secondary axis; and at least one stabilizer extending radially outwardly from the elongated body in the secondary axis; wherein the elongated body has a length along the primary axis which is less than the combined width of the spinal facets making up a facet joint; and further wherein the at least one stabilizer has a width which is sized to make a press fit into the gap between the spinal facets making up a facet joint.
US08162978B2	Non-metallic knotless suture anchor A knotless suture anchor for deployment in a preformed bone hole to secure soft tissue to bone. The suture anchor comprises a hollow outer member and a hollow inner member longitudinally movable within the outer member. Suture is directed along a tortuous path distally through the lumens of both the inner and outer members, transversely across an eyelet situated at the distal end of the inner member and proximally through the lumens of both the inner and outer members. A suture-locking mechanism engaged the suture-locking mechanism by moving the inner member proximally relative to the outer member is provided along the tortuous path to crimp the suture by placing the anchor in a suture locked configuration. The inner member is provided with radially outwardly extending prongs which pass through slots in the outer member in order to engage bone surrounding the bone hole.
US08162975B2	Systems and methods for closing a percutaneous vascular puncture A system and method for closing a percutaneous vessel puncture at the conclusion of a vascular catheterization procedure includes placement of an intravascular closure device having a radially and axially expandable tubular membrane and a radially expandable anchor at the distal end of the membrane. The closure device is placed, by a delivery catheter extending through the puncture site, with its anchor radially expanded in a location upstream of the puncture site to enable the force of a patient's blood flow to deploy the tubular membrane to a proximally extended configuration closing the puncture from within the vessel.
US08162974B2	Occlusion apparatus, system, and method Methods, apparatus, and systems for occluding a defective occlusion. Methods, apparatus, and systems include the use of an occlusion device having occluder pads. The distance between the occluder pads can be adjusted so as to compress tissue between the occluder pads to anchor the occlusion device to the tissue and to block the defective occlusion.
US08162971B2	Stretch resistant therapeutic device A vasoocclusive coil is reinforced with a stretch resistant member to improve safety during retraction of the coil. The stretch resistant member is fixedly attached at one end to the vasoocclusive coil, and the other end of the stretch resistant member is detachably mounted to an elongated pusher member to allow for placement and release of the vasoocclusive coil within the patient's vasculature.
US08162968B2	Lancing device A lancing device is used with a lancet for lancing body tissue to result in a wound for bleeding. The lancing device has a cantilevered priming arm having a first arm portion that is generally parallel to an internal channel of the device and a second arm portion that is generally perpendicular to the internal channel. The second arm portion is connected to a lancet carrier and movement of the first arm portion toward the internal channel draws the lancet carrier to a primed position and stores energy in a lancet driver.
US08162966B2	Surgical devices incorporating liquid jet assisted tissue manipulation and methods for their use Surgical instruments are disclosed that utilize high-pressure liquid jets to perform a variety of useful functions. In certain embodiments, surgical instruments are described incorporating one or more liquid jets utilized to contact tissue excised by a non-liquid jet tissue-cutting component of the surgical instrument. In certain embodiments, a liquid jet of a surgical instrument can be utilized for the purpose of excising tissue of a patient immobilized and/or manipulated by the surgical instrument. Also described are surgical devices of the type characterized by curettes, rongeurs, bone punches, bone cutting forceps, morcellators, surgical micrograspers, with functionality and performance supplemented by the integration of a liquid jet. Also disclosed are methods of using certain liquid jet-containing surgical instruments for performing surgical procedures, for example surgical procedures on the spinal column of a patient.
US08162965B2	Low profile cutting assembly with a return spring A forceps that includes a housing, a cutting assembly, and an actuator. The housing has a shaft attached thereto that extends therefrom and is configured to support a pair of jaw members at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable to grasp tissue therebetween. The cutting assembly includes a spring element that has proximal and distal ends. The proximal end of the spring element is fixed to a boss disposed within the housing and the distal end of the spring element includes a cutting edge. The spring element is coiled at a proximal end thereof to create a spring bias against the boss. The actuator is operably coupled to the spring element and is configured to selectively advance the cutting edge of the spring element into the jaw members against the spring bias to sever tissue disposed therebetween.
US08162963B2	Angled anastomosis device, tools and method of using Anastomosis devices, tools and methods of performing angled sutureless anastomosis. Devices provided are adapted to be oriented at an acute angle to a host vessel or organ, thereby orienting a graft to be anastomosed to the host by the same angle. The device maintains the angular orientation as it is compressed to join the graft and host.
US08162962B2	Knot setter A surgical knot setter includes an elongated shaft having a long axis and proximal and distal portions. A tip is provided at the distal end of the shaft. The tip has a loop with an interior loop opening and a gate opening for permitting ingress and egress of a suture into the loop opening. The loop is laterally offset from the long axis and distal to the distal end of the shaft, such that the loop is laterally and longitudinally offset from the distal end of the shaft. A closure is provided for selectively opening and closing the gate opening between open and closed positions to selectively permit or prevent the suture from passing through the gate opening. An actuator moves the closure between the open and closed positions. A method for tying suture knots is also disclosed.
US08162961B2	Medical devices and methods for cutting and suturing biological tissue Medical devices for cutting and suturing biological tissue generally include a shaft and first and second guide members each including a first portion coupled to the shaft at a first location and a second portion coupled to the shaft at a second location. The first portions are movable along the shaft relative to the second portions, and the first and second guide members define an arcuate profile and are configured to flex in response to such movement. When used to cut tissue, the medical device may further include a blade positioned between the first and second guide members. When used to suture tissue, one or more suture guides may be provided on the first guide member for directing a suture needle through tissue proximate the first guide member. Methods of repairing and replacing a meniscus using the medical devices are also provided.
US08162960B2	Method and apparatus for radical prostatectomy anastomosis including an anchor for engaging a body vessel and deployable sutures A radical prostatectomy anastomosis device including a cartridge having a plurality of anchors slidably disposed in a plurality of distally angled radial channels formed in the cartridge and a pusher assembly operatively coupled within the cartridge. The pusher assembly being configured and adapted to push each of the plurality of anchors out of the angled radial channels of the radial cartridge. The device further including a fitting removably coupled to a distal end of the cartridge. The fitting including a flange having a plurality of holes formed radially around the flange, wherein each of the plurality of holes includes suture locking means configured and adapted to permit a suture to be drawn distally through each of the plurality of holes and to prevent the sutures from being drawn proximally through each of the plurality of holes. The device further including a plurality of sutures secured to an inner surface of the cartridge. The sutures passing through the fitting, through a respective hole of the plurality of holes formed in the fitting and secured to an outer surface of a respective anchor.
US08162958B2	Tissue fastening tool and applicator for indwelling the same within body, and tissue fastening method through natural orifice A tissue fastening apparatus related to the present invention includes; a tissue fastening tool formed of a wire wound into a coil shape provided with a first tissue fixing section which is hooked onto a first biological tissue and a second tissue fixing section which is hooked onto a second biological tissue; a tubular puncturing tool which extends a tissue fastening tool and accommodates the stretched tissue fastening tool inside of the puncturing tool; a fastening tool pusher in which the distal end thereof is inserted into the puncturing tool and dispenses the tissue fastening tool inserted into the puncturing tool from a distal end of the puncturing tool when the fastening tool pusher advances; and a rotating mechanism to rotate the puncturing tool when the fastening tool pusher advances.
US08162957B2	Tissue processing system A tissue processing system includes a series of blades arranged in parallel to form a tissue processor. The blades may be adjusted to create a spaced between each blade in the range of 250-1000 microns. A slicer is included to remove a donor tissue to be processed by the processor. The processor is rotatable 90 degrees so as to create uniform micrografts of tissue for transplanting to a recipient site. An extractor is included to remove tissue particles from the processor after they have been cut into an appropriate size. A cutting block may be provided to ensure uniform thickness of cuts of the donor tissue.
US08162956B2	Device for footcare The present invention relates to an apparatus for footcare, which comprises an abrasive body (1) and members for supporting the abrasive body (1) relatively a ground, the abrasive body (1) has an external surface, and the external surface is at least partly abrasive, whereby the portion of the external surface of the abrasive body (1) that is abrasive comprises a number of partial surfaces, and these partial surfaces comprises at least a concave surface (9, 12) and a convex surface (10, 15). A main surface (9), which at the position of the abrasive body (1) on the ground is faced upwardly, has two concave partial surfaces (A, B) angled against each other, whereby a first part-surface (A) has an angle in the range 15-45° in relation to the ground and a second partial surface (B) has an angle up to 15° in relation to the ground.
US08162950B2	Bone plate instrument and method A drill guide for a bone plate which has holes therethrough for receiving bone screws. The drill guide includes a guide block having drill guide bores alignable with at least two bone screw receiving holes in the bone plate. A first locking element in inserted through a guide block drill guide bore. The locking element has a tip for engaging a bone screw receiving holes in the bone plate, the tip being selectively expandable to engage and disengage from the bone plate hole. A second locking element is mounted on the guide block and is engageable with a bone plate hole. The second locking element also has a tip for resiliently engaging walls of the bone plate hole wherein the tip of the first and second locking elements has a split portion. The first and second locking elements include an axially moveable rod for expanding the split tip portion to engage the plate
US08162948B2	Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient.
US08162946B2	Instrument for tensioning a flexible tie A surgical system for stabilizing at least a portion of a spine is provided. In at least one embodiment, the system comprises a spinal rod, an implant, and an instrument. The instrument comprises a shaft, a moving part, and a holder. The implant comprises a flexible tie and may further comprise a bearing for bearing against the rod. The tie has at least one end that projects out from the implant. The shaft comprises a distal end configured to bear against the implant. The moving part is configured to move in translation with respect to the shaft and comprises an anti-return system. The holder is configured to hold an end of the tie and is connected to the moving part. The anti-return system engages the shaft for temporarily preventing the moving part from moving in translation relative to the shaft.
US08162942B2	Intramedullary nail comprising elements of shape-memory material An intramedullary nail (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610) suitable for insertion in a fractured elongate bone (12), of the type comprising a stem (14, 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614) extended between a proximal end (16, 116, 216, 416, 516, 616) and a distal end (18, 118, 218, 418, 518, 618). The nail comprises a plurality of elements (20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) realized with at least one shape-memory material, a plurality of seats (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619) formed in the stem (14, 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614) for housing the elements (20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620). The elements (20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) are suitable to take a first shape wherein they are retractably housed in the respective seats (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619) and a second shape wherein they project from the respective seats (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619).
US08162941B2	Ablation device with jaws System, device and method for ablating target tissue adjacent pulmonary veins of a patient through an incision. An ablation device can include a hinge including a cam assembly, a moving arm, a floating jaw, and a lower jaw. Fingers can engage the floating jaw to hold the floating jaw in a first position with respect to the moving arm. Some embodiments of the invention can provide an ablation device including a central support, an upper four-bar linkage coupled to the central support, an upper jaw coupled to the upper linkage, a lower four-bar linkage coupled to the central support, and a lower jaw coupled to the lower linkage. Some embodiments of the invention can provide an ablation device having an upper jaw including a first cannula connection and a lower jaw including a second cannula connection. The system can include a first catheter coupled to the first cannula connection and a second catheter coupled to the second cannula connection. The first and second catheters can be inserted through the incision and can move the upper and lower jaws adjacent the pulmonary veins.
US08162939B2	Medical treatment device A medical treatment device inserted into a treatment instrument insertion channel of an ultrasonic endoscope inserted into a body cavity for treating an organ in the body cavity comprises a treatment probe having an electrode portion inserted and stuck into the organ in the body cavity through the treatment instrument insertion channel of the ultrasonic endoscope for radio-frequency cautery treatment of a tissue in the organ and an ultrasonic reflection portion formed on the surface of the electrode portion of the treatment probe for reflecting an ultrasonic signal from the ultrasonic endoscope.
US08162937B2	High volume fluid seal for electrosurgical handpiece A fluid resistant seal connector for an electrosurgical handpiece includes a housing adapted to be supported within an electrosurgical handpiece. The housing includes opposing half sections each having an inner peripheral surface. The fluid resistant seal further includes a first seal adapted to engage an activation circuit of the handpiece and at least one second seal adapted to engage an electrosurgical supply wire in a fluid-tight relationship therewith. At least one of the first and second seals is configured to complement the inner peripheral surface of the housing.
US08162934B2	Medical catheter assembly with deflection pull ring and distal tip interlock A medical catheter assembly includes a deflectable catheter shaft, a distal tip with tip element and a mounting shaft, and a pull ring assembly, the distal tip defining guide channels through which pull wires of the pull ring assembly pass such that the pull wires will initially extend from the pull ring toward the tip element and then loop back toward and through the catheter shaft and to a handle actuator. Pulling of the pull wires by the handle actuator to tilt the pull ring and deflect the catheter shaft will cause the pull ring to move toward tip element. The pull ring and tip element are thus interlocked. Stress forces on the connection joints between the pull wires and the pull ring will be dissipated, reducing the incidence of failure of the pull ring assembly. The medical catheter can be a non-irrigated ablation catheter wherein the tip element is a tip electrode, or an irrigated ablation catheter wherein the tip element is a tip electrode and a fluid manifold.
US08162930B2	Method and the device for cryogenic therapy applied on the whole body of a patient The present invention relates to methods and devices for carrying out cryogenic therapy, particularly on the whole body of a patient, wherein the patient is exposed to gases cooled to cryogenic temperature. The process is performed by introducing the patient into the interior of a treatment cabin and exposing the body to cold air deposited into the cabin space.
US08162928B2	Eye surgical instrument An eye surgical instrument, comprising at least one optical fiber for lighting of the interior of the eye, which at least one optical fiber, at a free end thereof, is provided with a light exit and with a stop situated at a distance from the free end, which stop defines an insertion part situated between the end and the stop, and at an other end is connectable to a light source, while the stop forms a separate element which is arranged so as to be slidable along the at least one fiber.
US08162927B2	Method and apparatus for accommodating intraocular lens A method of replacing a natural lens in an eye is presented. The method includes removing the natural lens while leaving the capsular bag substantially intact, removing a portion of the capsular bag along the main optical axis, and placing biodendrimer within the capsular bag. Placing biodendrimer within the capsular bag can include placing a mixture of biodendrimer and at least one other material within the capsular bag. Biodendrimer can be approximately fifty percent of the mixture. The method can also include inserting an artificial bag within the capsular bag, injecting a synthetic material into the artificial bag to form an artificial lens, the synthetic material having loose monomers and a polymerization initiator so that the synthetic material changes its volume when exposed to an energy source, and selectively exposing portions of the artificial lens to an energy source to alter the refractive properties of the artificial lens.
US08162925B2	Robot for minimally invasive interventions Rather than trying to immobilize a living, moving organ to place the organ in the fixed frame of reference of a table-mounted robotic device, the present disclosure teaches mounting a robot in the moving frame of reference of the organ. That task can be accomplished with a wide variety of robots including a miniature crawling robotic device designed to be introduced, in the case of the heart, into the pericardium through a port, attach itself to the epicardial surface, and then, under the direct control of the surgeon, travel to the desired location for treatment. The problem of beating-heart motion is largely avoided by attaching the device directly to the epicardium. The problem of access is resolved by incorporating the capability for locomotion. The device and technique can be used on other organs and on other living bodies such as pets, farm animals, etc. Because of the rules governing abstracts, this abstract should not be used in construing the claims.
US08162924B2	System, devices, and methods including actively-controllable superoxide water generating systems Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing an actively-controllable disinfecting implantable device configured to, for example, treat or prevent an infection in a biological subject.
US08162920B2	Magnetic navigation of medical devices in magnetic fields A method of turning a medical device with the assistance of an externally applied magnetic field, in a direction with a component in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the externally applied magnetic field. The method includes applying first torque to the distal end of the medical device by creating magnetic moment at the distal end of the medical device, and applying a second torque to the distal end of the medical device. The second torque may be created by creating a second magnetic moment at the distal end of the device spaced from the first, by using an electrostrictive device, by using a stylette inserted into the device, by using a fluid-driven shaped tube, or otherwise.
US08162918B2	Gels with predetermined conductivity used in electroporation of tissue Gel compositions with adjusted conductivity are disclosed which compositions are used for directing reversible electroporation and irreversible electroporation of cells and tissue. The gel compositions are also used in a similar manner in order to carry out thermotherapy on cells and tissues.
US08162915B2	Connector for packings containing medical liquids, and corresponding packing for medical liquids A connector for packings containing medical liquids, particularly infusion, transfusion or enteral bags, comprises a connecting part (1) for accommodating a spike for drawing out the liquid and comprises a closure part (3) that closes the passage (2) inside the connecting part (1). The connecting part (1) has an elastically deformable pinching off part (4) provided in the form of a tubular section with a non-circular cross-section. A base part (5), which widens on both sides is adjoined to said pinching off part (4) and can be integrated in the packing. During manufacturing, the packing is filled with liquid via the connecting part. After filling, the pinching off part is pressed together whereby preventing liquid from escaping. Afterwards, the closure part is placed onto the connecting part. The manufacturing of the packing is simplified by virtue of the fact that an additional tube for connecting the connector and packing is rendered unnecessary.
US08162911B2	Compact folded absorbent article A personal care article (20) has a longitudinal-direction (22), a relatively shorter, lateral cross-direction (24), a first end-section (72), a second end-section (72a), and an intermediate-section (76) which is contiguous with and interposed between the first end-section (72) and the second end-section (72a). The article includes a liquid permeable topsheet layer (26), and a backsheet layer (28) which is operatively connected to the topsheet layer (26). At least a portion of the first end-section (72) has been folded along or otherwise includes a first end-fold-region (58) which is substantially convex along a topsheet-side of the article (20). Additionally, the first end-fold-region (58) is substantially concave along a backsheet-side of the article. At least a portion of the second end-section (72a) has been folded along or otherwise includes a second end-fold-region (62) which is substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article (20).
US08162910B2	Absorbent article having colored regions An absorbent article having colored regions. The absorbent article has at least three colored regions. The colored regions are spaced apart from one another. Each colored region has a major axis. The major axis of each colored region converges towards a common focal region on the longitudinal centerline of the absorbent article.
US08162903B2	System and method for proportional mixing and continuous delivery of fluids A system and method for mixing and delivering fluids such as contrast media and saline is disclosed including at least two fluid sources, a pump, a joining fluid path connecting the at least two fluid sources to an inlet to the pump, and a valve device in the fluid path upstream of the pump. The valve device includes an actuator adapted to restrict flow in at least one of respective fluid lines connecting the at least two fluid sources to the pump inlet. A patient interface device may be associated with an outlet of the pump. The valve device actuator is generally adapted to restrict the flow in at least one of the respective fluid lines such that a positional change in valve device actuator position provides a change in fluid mixture ratio of the fluids from the at least two fluid sources to the pump inlet.
US08162902B2	Systems and methods for providing an automatic occlusion device An auto-occlusion safety device is provided for use in preventing rupture of infusion components during rapid infusion procedures. An occlusion valve is disclosed having a threshold pressure that is less than a rupture tolerance of the infusion system components. As the fluid pressure of the infusion system increases beyond the threshold pressure of the occlusion valve, the occlusion valve is automatically activated thereby occluding fluid flow upstream from a vulnerable infusion component. An accumulator is further disclosed for use in combination with the safety device to compensate for time delays in full activation of the occlusion valve.
US08162897B2	Audible and tactile feedback A rotational locking mechanism for securing a catheter to a surgical implant is disclosed. The locking mechanism includes a deflectable extension extending from the surgical implant about the catheter attached to the surgical implant. The shape of the deflectable extension defines a slot therein. A connector having at least one tab extending therefrom is placed about the catheter at the point of attachment to the surgical implant. Rotation of the tubular connector brings at least one tab of the connector into contact with the slot in the deflectable extension and deflects and releases at least a portion of the slot as the connector rotates from an unlocked position to a locked position within the slot. The rotation motion secures the catheter to the surgical implant, and produces a feedback detectable by a surgeon rotating the tubular connector.
US08162896B2	Flashback blood collection needle A needle assembly includes a transparent or translucent housing with a fluid inlet end, a fluid outlet end, a flashback chamber and a venting mechanism therebetween. Substantially axially aligned inlet and outlet cannulas extend from the housing and communicate with the chamber. A sealable sleeve covers the external end of the outlet cannula. Relative volumes of the cannulas, the chamber and the sleeve are selected to provide rapid reliable flashback indicative of venous entry with an internal vent plug over the outlet of the flashback chamber to inhibit leakage of blood from the needle on withdrawal from the patient.
US08162894B2	Valve opener A medical introducer apparatus for use in inserting an interventional device into a body vessel of a patient. The apparatus includes a housing having a proximal opening, a distal opening, and a chamber positioned between the openings. A hemostatic valve system is provided in the housing chamber. The valve system includes a plurality of generally elastomeric valve members axially arranged in the chamber. The valve members each have a generally circular hole extending therethrough, which hole is sized for substantially leak-free passage of the interventional device. The valve members are aligned in the chamber to be sequentially penetrable by the interventional device, such that a hole in one valve member is covered by an adjoining valve member. A valve opener having a tubular body with a curved portion penetrates the hemostatic valve system to aid in the positioning of the interventional device. The curved portion maintains the valve opener stationary within the valve system.
US08162890B2	Catheter insertion apparatus and method of use thereof The invention relates to a catheter insertion system utilizing a catheter introducer device having an introducer sheath, the catheter insertion system comprise a catheter containment unit in which a catheter tube having a catheter hub is held, said catheter containment unit comprises an opening adapted to sealably and reversibly connect to an inserter head, said inserter head is adapted to sealably and reversibly connect, and provide said catheter tube passage, to said catheter introducer device, wherein said catheter containment unit comprises at least one flexible portion and an elastic/resilient portion located near its opening for advancing portions of said catheter tube through said passage, and wherein said inserter head is adapted to sealably receive a portion of said catheter hub in a socket provided therein.
US08162889B2	Safety reset key and needle assembly A needle assembly includes a mounting structure and a needle mounted on the mounting structure and extending outwardly from the mounting structure. The needle has a longitudinal axis, a sharp end and a central axial passageway. A safety shield is associated with the needle and includes a tubular housing having distal and proximal ends. The distal end of the housing has a funnel-shaped surface. A reset key is configured to engage the distal end of the housing. The reset key includes a support. A shaft extending from the support is adapted for inserting into the distal end the housing. The funnel-shaped surface guides the shaft into the housing to register the reset key with the safety shield.
US08162888B2	Automated catheter length determination for implantable fluid delivery device Examples disclosed herein include methods and systems for automatically estimating the length of an implantable catheter by measuring the pressure decay response to pumping fluid through the catheter. The decay time for a unit fluid pressure pulse generated within the catheter is proportional to the length of the catheter, i.e. as the length of the catheter increases so does the decay time. The catheter length can therefore be estimated based on, e.g., the decay time of the pressure pulse. The estimated catheter length can also be analyzed to determine if it is representative of the actual length of the catheter, or, e.g., is affected by one or more catheter malfunctions including cuts and occlusions. Systems for automatically estimating catheter length include an implantable catheter, a pumping mechanism, a pressure sensor placed in a location to measure pressure within the catheter, and a processor that calculates the length of the catheter from a pressure pulse measured while fluid is delivered through the catheter.
US08162885B2	Intradermal syringe and needle assembly A device and method for making an injection with a short needle, which includes a needle cannula and a limiter surrounding the needle cannula and includes a skin engaging surface on the limiter. The limiter is moveable from a first position in which an elongate portion of the needle cannula is exposed for access to a medication vial, to a locked second position in which the limiter is not movable from the second position to the first position. In the second position, the needle tip extends beyond the skin engaging surface a distance which is ordinarily unable to access the vial.
US08162882B2	Automatic-locking safety needle covers and methods of use and manufacture A single-use needle cover configured to obscure, protect, or hide at least a portion of a needle from view before, during, and/or after an injection and/or aspiration procedure is disclosed. In some embodiments, the cover includes a housing at least partially containing the needle and configured to couple to a syringe, wherein the housing includes an axis and a guide member. In some embodiments, a sleeve has a plurality of tracks configured to slidingly receive the guide member, wherein the sleeve is configured to retract, extend, and rotate with respect to the housing. In some embodiments, after the sleeve has been retracted and extended one time, a first locking member inhibits further retraction of the sleeve and a second locking member inhibits rotation of the sleeve.
US08162880B2	Delivery of therapeutic and marking substance through intra lumen expansion of a delivery device A balloon catheter is formed with a plurality of depressions. The balloon is coated with a matrix incorporating a therapeutic substance, which additionally fills the depressions. When the balloon is expanded within a body lumen, the therapeutic substance may diffuse into the lumen wall, or all or a portion of the coating transfers to the lumen wall. A lattice frame may surround the balloon, applied prior to coating if the coating is to transfer, operative to maintain a more linear balloon profile during inflation, promoting more even transfer pressure. A contrast dye is incorporated into the transferred coating, enabling ready location and inspection of the treated lumen area. Projections may alternately be formed in the balloon surface, operative to urge the coating and therapeutic substance between cells, or past cell layers of the lumen, to the interior of the lumen wall. Prior to transfer, an extended inflation period, possibly including the use of perfusion ports to maintain blood supply, enables a larger initial quantity of therapeutic substance to diffuse into the body lumen, prior to transfer of the coating and withdrawal of the catheter, balloon, and frame.
US08162869B2	Hybrid compression garmet A hybrid compression garment comprises a sleeve adapted for placement on a limb of a person for applying static compression to the limb. A connecting device on the sleeve enables releasable connection of the sleeve to a machine. The machine is independent of the sleeve and operable to transmit, through the connecting device, a force to the sleeve that constricts the sleeve without inflating the sleeve to apply active compression to the limb. The connecting device is adapted for connection of the sleeve to the machine such that the sleeve can be used to apply active compression to the limb and adapted for disconnection of the sleeve from the machine such that the sleeve can be used to apply static compression to the limb. A method of applying compression to a limb of a person is also disclosed.
US08162868B2	Arch support wrap An orthopedic device to provide support and cushioning to the foot to alleviate plantar fasciitis, fallen arches, heel pain, bunions, and other conditions.
US08162867B2	Body support for spanning a hinge joint of the body comprising an elastically stretchable framework A body support for spanning a hinge joint of the body comprises an elastically stretchable framework. The framework includes an integrally molded network of interconnected elastomeric segments. A first subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments extends along a perimeter of the framework, and a second subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments located within the perimeter of the framework bounds and defines an alignment opening. None of the interconnected, elastomeric segments of the first subset are part of the second subset.
US08162866B2	Neck brace A neck brace (10) having a collar member (12) to be arranged around a wearer's neck, and a rear member (14) extending from, the collar member (12) and to be abutted on the wearer's back. The brace further comprises releasable fastening means (74, 75, 88a, 88b, 92) for fastening the collar member to the rear member, such that the collar member and the rear member may also be detached.
US08162862B2	Dressing material The invention relates to a dressing material comprising a thermoplastic, the thermoplastic being applied to a first textile web and the thermoplastic containing a first microencapsulated dye. Furthermore, the invention comprises a production method and a bandage, an orthopedic support dressing and an application.
US08162859B2	Shock wave treatment device and method of use The system for treating an internal organ has a generator source for producing a shock wave connected to a portable shock wave applicator device, wherein the shock wave applicator device has a side-firing shock wave head having a variable angle adjustment relative to a release and lock connected handle or holder means for holding said device. The inclination of the shock wave head can be set to a fixed inclination to reach the organ at various locations or surfaces or can be pivotally inclined continuous to vary the treatment surfaces area.
US08162854B2	Body fluid sampling device Body fluid sampling device comprising a skin-piercing element (10) having a fluid pathway (11) for receiving body fluid, at least a portion of the fluid pathway is open to the environment and further comprising a fluid receiving element (40) being spaced from the fluid pathway so that fluid in the pathway will not contact the fluid receiving element initially. The fluid receiving element may have a test zone (45) for performing an analytical reaction. Fluid from the channel is contacted with the fluid receiving element either by bringing the fluid receiving element and the fluid into mechanical contact or by electrically transporting fluid from the channel onto the fluid receiving element.
US08162853B2	Tissue penetration device A method is provided for controlling a lancet velocity profile. A velocity of a moving lancet is measured at a known position. The measured velocity of the lancet is compared with an appropriate velocity for the lancet at the known position. A force is applied to the lancet to adjust the velocity of the lancet.
US08162850B2	Hand actuated tetherless biopsy device with scissors grip A biopsy device includes a body having a cannula, a cutter positioned at least partly within the cannula, a tissue collection chamber, and a vacuum source. In one example, the biopsy device includes a cutter loader for rotating the cutter into a loaded position (e.g., open position). A trigger is engaged with a portion of the cutter loader and may be activated to allow the cutter to rotate back to a closed position. During this rotation, the cutter severs a tissue sample, which may thereafter be drawn through the cutter lumen into the tissue collection chamber under the influence of a vacuum created by the vacuum source. The vacuum source includes a piston configured to be operated by squeezing a scissors grip. A user may apply a single stroke or successive strokes to the piston to produce the vacuum.
US08162845B2	Environment control device, environment control method, environment control program, and environment control system Comfortable sensation of living bodies is estimated, considering individual differences in biological information on the living bodies staying or residing in a common space, and stimulation contents is properly controlled. A stimulation generator generates a stimulation to be applied to users. Biological information acquirers and acquire time-series data of biological information on the users. Parameter extractors and extract a parameter which is changed with a lapse of time by analyzing the time-series data. Thermal sensation estimators and estimate statuses of the users to the stimulation generated by the stimulation generator, based on the parameter extracted by the parameter extractors and. A multi-user thermal sensation processor integrates estimation results on the users estimated by the thermal sensation estimators and into a single estimation result. A stimulation controller controls the stimulation generator based on the integrated estimation result.
US08162844B2	Managing preload reserve by tracking the ventricular operating point with heart sounds A system and method for managing preload reserve and tracking the inotropic state of a patient's heart. The S1 heart sound is measured as a proxy for direct measurement of stroke volume. The S3 heart sound may be measured as a proxy for direct measurement of preload level. The S1-S3 pair yield a point on a Frank Starling type of curve, and reveal information regarding the patient's ventricular operating point and inotropic state. As an alternative, or in addition to, measurement of the S3 heart sound, the S4 heart sound may be measured or a direct pressure measurement may be made for the sake of determining the patient's preload level. The aforementioned measurements may be made by a cardiac rhythm management device, such as a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator.
US08162843B2	Method for measuring cardiac output via an extracorporeal cardiopulmonary support circuit A method for determining cardiac output in conjunction with flow through an extracorporeal circuit, wherein flow through an arterial line of the extracorporeal circuit is temporarily reversed and an indicator is passed through the cardiopulmonary circuit. A dilution curve is measured in the arterial line of the extracorporeal circuit during the reversed flow, and cardiac output is determined corresponding to the measured dilution curve.
US08162842B2	Detecting ischemia using an implantable cardiac device based on morphology of cardiac pressure signal Methods and systems are presented for using an ICD to detect myocardial ischemia. One such method includes sensing via an implantable cardiac-rhythm-management device (ICRMD) a signal indicative of cardiac pressure; determining via a processor associated with the ICRMD, a derivative signal that is a first derivative of the sensed signal; measuring via the processor, a maximum positive value of the derivative signal; measuring via the processor, a maximum negative value of the derivative signal; and indicating via the processor, an ischemia based on a comparison of a ratio of the maximum positive value to the maximum negative value with a predetermined value.
US08162834B2	Hemoglobin contrast in ultrasound and optical coherence tomography for diagnosing diseased tissue, cancers, and the like A novel contrast mechanism for diagnosing diseased tissue using Ultrasound, Doppler Ultrasonography, Optical Coherence Tomography, or optical Doppler tomography coupled with an externally applied temporally oscillating high-strength magnetic field.
US08162832B2	Minor axis motion type ultrasonic probe The invention relates to a minor axis motion type ultrasonic probe with high sensitivity that suppresses propagation loss. The minor axis motion type ultrasonic probe of the invention comprises: a piezoelectric element group in which a plurality of piezoelectric elements are arranged in a line in a major axis direction of the piezoelectric element group; an acoustic lens that is provided on an ultrasonic wave transmitting/receiving surface side of the piezoelectric element group and that has a predetermined curvature in a minor axis direction of the piezoelectric element group; and a sealed container that houses the piezoelectric element group with the acoustic lens provided thereon and that is filled with a liquid serving as an ultrasonic wave medium, and the piezoelectric element group is moved in the minor axis direction and ultrasonic waves are transmitted and received to and from a living body, wherein the configuration is such that the acoustic lens is a concave lens formed from a material that has less propagation loss than a silicone resin and that has a greater acoustic velocity than a living body, and a relationship between acoustic velocity c1 of the concave lens, acoustic velocity c2 of the liquid, and acoustic velocity c3 of the living body is expressed as c1>c3>c2.
US08162831B2	Hand scanner with moveable platen A hand scanner according to the invention may obtain an image of the hand and fingers including the bracelet crease/carpel delta area and palm surface regions up to the tips of the fingers using ultrasound measurement techniques. A hand scanner according to the invention may include a movable arcuate platen and an energy transducer. In a method according to the invention, the transducer may be moved back and forth while moving a platen surface in order to advance the hand and thereby produce a raster type scan image. In this manner, the image of the hand print may be collected as a raster image representative of the scanned surface of the friction ridge skin.
US08162828B2	Blood content detecting capsule A capsule employing components for detecting blood content or hemoglobin concentration within tissue forming a lumen in vivo advantageously permits screening or diagnosis of certain diseases. In one embodiment, the capsule includes a light source for intermittently illuminating a region of tissue and a light detector for receiving interacted light from the tissue and hemoglobin therein. Methods of validating data of interacted light signal are also disclosed. A power conservation method of detecting the blood content values at different rates is further disclosed.
US08162827B2	Adjustable polyaxial tissue retractor An adjustable polyaxial tissue retractor includes a retraction bar including a plurality of etched teeth, a retraction blade coupled to the retraction bar, a connector including a quick release component cavity and an outwardly protruding and expandable round bulbous body, a quick release component engaged with at least one tooth of the retraction bar via a retraction bar cavity, where the quick release component is configured to loosely mate with the quick release component cavity, a saddle pin engaged within the connector via a first channel bored through the connector and contacting the bulbous body causing the bulbous body to outwardly expand, and a base including a plurality of embedded sockets and directly connected to the bulbous body, where the base receives the connector.
US08162823B2	Endoscope apparatus An endoscope apparatus according to the present invention includes an apparatus main body having a protector which is provided so as to project from the outer surface of a box-shaped housing, and an endoscope unit including a connector portion detachably attached to the housing, thereby reducing a shock applied to the housing and preventing damage of the housing.
US08162820B2	Stereovideoscope and method of using the same A system and method for acquiring measurements of a portion of a patient's anatomy are provided. For example, the system includes a stereovideoscope including a scope coupled to a flexible tubing and configured to be positioned within the patient's body. The scope includes a plurality of stereoscopic lenses configured to capture data indicative of the portion of the patient's anatomy, and the flexible tubing includes a biocompatible material. In addition, the system includes a processing element that is in communication with the stereovideoscope and that is configured to generate an image based on the captured data in order to acquire at least one geometrical measurement indicative of the portion of the patient's upper airway and to determine a probabilty of the patient's response to a tongue-base treatment based on the at least one geometrical meaurement.
US08162815B2	Method and device for preserving the vitality and function of a harvested blood vessel A blood vessel preservation device is disclosed comprised of a vessel cannister, cannister cap, vessel alignment insert, pulsatile pump and both inlet and outlet tubing. The vessel canister is advantageously configured as a hollow tube-like structure with a central bore having one open terminus—the proximal terminus—and a closed distal terminus—similar to a large test tube—. Integrated embodiments of the device are disclosed wherein blood is provided from natural circulation and returns thereto. Non-integrated embodiments are also disclosed wherein sufficient blood is provided to the device and thereafter the device functions separate and apart from a patient's circulatory system.
US08162806B2	Bicycle trainer with variable resistance to pedaling The invention is a bicycle trainer to which a standard bicycle temporarily attaches for exercise and simulated rides. A lifting mechanism raises and lowers the front tire, and in preferred embodiments, a frame engages the rear tire to hold the rear tire in an elevated position against a resistance cylinder. The resistance cylinder provides a force against rear tire revolution and varies the resistance to pedaling. The resistance cylinder can vary resistance against back tire revolution by pumping a resistance fluid into and out of the cylinder, by changing the position of the resistance cylinder in relation to the back tire, or by translation of the bicycle back and forth. In other embodiments, the trainer is electronically controlled to simulate real-world geographical courses programmed into a readable format for electronically maneuvering front tire and back tire positions as necessary to provide resistance to pedaling.
US08162799B2	Procedure for controlling a hydraulic or pneumatic transmission control unit A method of monitoring a hydraulic or pneumatic transmission control system, which comprises a pressure supply unit with a conduit directing a pressure medium under a supply pressure, and an actuating member for a clutch control element of a friction clutch. The actuating member has a pressure space which can be connected by a clutch control valve to the conduit, and in which the supply pressure is determined by a pressure sensor that can be connected to the conduit. The method includes the steps of determining the supply pressure by the pressure sensor, given that briefly opening the clutch control valve produces a pressure increase and/or a pressure gradient of the control pressure in the pressure space, and the currently existing supply pressure can be calculated from the control pressure, the pressure increase and/or the pressure gradient.
US08162798B2	Method and device for controlling an automatic transmission The invention relates to a method for controlling an automatic transmission having a torque converter, with the transmission having three gear sets and with the first gear set which has a first brake clutch and a second brake clutch being braked relative to the housing by means of simultaneous actuation of the first and second brake clutches, as a result of which an output shaft which is directly connected to the first gear set is likewise braked. The third gear set is connected in terms of gearing to an input shaft and to the first gear set and can be fixed relative to the housing by means of a third brake clutch. The simultaneous actuation of the first and second brake clutches takes place at least intermittently with the third brake clutch in a slipping state, controlling the speed of the torque converter relative to the engine.
US08162796B2	Method for operating an automatic gearbox A method for operating an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle, in particular a variable-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission has five shift elements and for transferring torque or force in a forward gear and in a reverse gear at least three of the five shift elements are engaged. In a neutral position of the automatic transmission, to prevent torque or force flow at least one of the shift elements that are engaged in the respective forward or reverse gear is fully disengaged.
US08162794B2	Mechanism for converting rotational motion into linear motion A rotation/linear motion conversion mechanism provided with an annular shaft, a sun shaft arranged inside the annular shaft, planetary shafts arranged around the sun shaft, and a first gear mechanism and a second gear mechanism, which transmit force between the annular shaft and the planetary shafts. Each planetary shaft includes a first planetary gear, which configures part of the first gear mechanism, and a second gear, which configures part of the second gear mechanism. The planetary shaft is configured to permit relative rotation between the first planetary gear and the second planetary gear.
US08162792B2	Transmission having at least eight speeds A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary 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. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least two to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08162790B2	Rolling ball type two-stage low speed changer device In a rolling ball type two-stage low speed changer device 1, empirical formulas are obtained as a relationship between number of first, second, third and fourth lobes z1, z2, z3, z4 of a hypo-based groove 6 (8) and an epi-based groove 7 (9). The relationship is represented by z1>z2, z3>z4, z1−z2=2, z3−z4=2 and z3=n×z2×½ (n: integer), and enables to a precise and smooth rotational transmission without inviting differential slippage and incurring an irregular rotation and uneven torque transmission on an output shaft 16 within the practical usage, and reducing a thickness dimension to render a whole structure compact, achieving a high transmission efficiency without inviting a backlash, and attaining a high torque transmission with low noise.
US08162788B2	System, device and method for wind turbine control based on operating profiles A method for operating a wind turbine based on operating profiles for the wind turbine corresponding to operating modes. The method includes defining operating modes and acquiring a plurality of parameter values, each based on a reading from a sensor of the wind turbine. Each of the parameter values is associated with one of the operating modes to create a wind turbine operating profile for each mode. The wind turbine is controlled based on the operating profiles.
US08162787B2	One-way clutched damper for automatic belt tensioner A new asymmetrically damped tensioner is provided utilizing a roller clutch engaged with a tensioner arm through a frictional contact. During normal operation, the roller clutch enables the tensioner arm to pivot in a first direction to take up belt slack with negligible frictional damping applied to the motion of the tensioner arm. When the tensioner arm pivots in a second direction, away from the belt, however, in a condition commonly known as wind-up, the roller clutch engages and creates a frictional linkage between the tensioner arm and a fixed surface. This frictional linkage provides asymmetric frictional damping to the tensioner to limit movement in the second direction and combat wind-up.
US08162785B2	Continuously variable conical pulley transmission with traction mechanism belt A continuously variable conical pulley transmission having pairs of conical pulleys which are rotationally fixedly arranged on drive input and drive output shafts and of which in each case one is fixed to the shaft and one is axially movable, and between which a traction mechanism belt for power transmission circulates. In order that it is not necessary to provide otherwise unutilized regions of the conical pulley surfaces to allow for corresponding wear, it is proposed that a stop for limiting the transmission ratio, which stop acts substantially in the radial direction on the traction mechanism belt, be provided in at least one conical pulley pair. It is intended in particular that the peripheral surface of the drive input shaft serves as a stop. It is also proposed that a chain as a traction mechanism belt be correspondingly matched to a device of said type by virtue of the contour of the links of said chain being matched to the contour of the drive input shaft.
US08162784B1	Survival tool and system A survival tool and system for use in hunting or camping may be provided in a compact and easy to carry package. The tool system may include a substantially rigid base with an outer edge and a substantially flat face. A relief may be provided in the substantially rigid base defining one or more edged tools in the substantially flat face. Applying pressure to the edged tool may cause the tool to separate from the substantially rigid base. The edged tools may be in the shape of an arrowhead or other utility element. One or more secondary tools may be incorporated into the outer edge, including a knife blade, a saw blade, an arrow scraper, a flat scraper and a bow rail. An elastic element may be fastened to the base and used to launch a projectile such as an arrow. One or more bases may be sized to fit in a common sized “tin” or similar in size to a dog tag and may be carried around the neck of a user. A sheath may also be provided to cover one or more of the outer edges.
US08162783B2	Table tennis game with automated serving and scorekeeping A table tennis game table may include one or more automated ball serving guns and an automated score announcing system. Remote control actuators may be provided for one or more users to operate the features of the table. The system may be adjusted manually or remotely to correct mistakes, and may be used in multiple modes. Alternatively, the automated ball serving guns and automated score announcing system may be adapted to a standard after market table.
US08162782B2	Palm pad device for basketball training and basketball training system A palm pad device, for use as a training device and to be fastened to the palm of a user, includes a segregate pad having a size-adjustable elastic pad and a fastening member for fastening the segregate pad onto the palm. The palm pad device further includes a sensing recorder disposed on the fastening member for sensing and recording movement data of the palm. The elastic pad includes a thickness pad and a width pad for allowing adjustments in the thickness and width of the segregate pad. A basketball training system using the palm pad device includes a basket sensor for recording the status of successful shots, a sensing recorder disposed on the palm pad device, and a central management apparatus for receiving data transmitted from the sensing recorder and the basket sensor for conducting analysis to thereby generate a corresponding feedback event.
US08162778B1	Combination tool for golf A combination turf repair tool and golf club adjustment tool is disclosed herein. One embodiment of the combination tool comprises a turf repair portion connected to a golf club adjustment portion, and a cover portion or cap that is sized to cover at least part of the golf club adjustment portion. The cap or cover portion may be a separate, removable piece, or may be pivotally attached to another part of the tool. Another embodiment of the combination tool comprises a turf repair portion and a golf club adjustment portion, wherein the golf club adjustment portion is pivotally attached to the turf repair portion.
US08162777B2	Multi-layer core golf ball Golf balls consisting of a multi-layer core and a cover are disclosed. The multi-layer core comprises a thermoset rubber center, a thermoplastic intermediate core layer, and a thermoset rubber outer core layer.
US08162774B2	Golf club, head of golf club and method for adjusting property of golf club A golf club includes: a head, formed with a hosel insertion hole, including: a female screw, formed in an inner peripheral surface of the entrance portion of the hosel insertion hole; a hosel, formed with a shaft case insertion hole and mounted on a deep portion of the hosel insertion hole; a shaft case, formed with a shaft insertion hole, a leading end portion of the shaft case being mounted into the shaft case insertion hole; a ring holder, fitted with an outer surface of the shaft case; a screw member, fitted with an outer surface of the ring holder in a peripheral direction of the ring holder; and a male screw, formed on an outer peripheral surface of the screw member so that the screw member is engaged with the female screw; and a shaft, inserted into the shaft insertion hole of the head.
US08162770B2	Reaction component for linear induction motor A reaction component or plate for a linear induction motor incorporates a flexibility increasing feature and a wear resistant feature.
US08162768B2	Telescoping-arm round ride for amusement parks An amusement park ride that provides an interactive flying experience in a round ride setting by allowing vehicle passengers to move their vehicle in and out horizontally through a fly zone. The ride includes a central support assembly with a structure rotatable about a central axis at one or more rotation speeds. The ride also includes passenger vehicles and, for each vehicle, a support arm assembly that extends outward from the rotatable structure. The support arm assembly includes a support arm and a variable radius mechanism. The support arm is mounted to the rotatable structure and supports the passenger vehicle. The variable radius mechanism operates during rotation of the rotatable structure to vary the arm length or support location of the vehicle on the arm to vary the vehicle's rotation radius. The variable radius mechanism may include a telescoping arm that reciprocates the vehicle along a linear displacement path.
US08162767B2	Boot for a constant velocity joint A constant velocity joint assembly includes an outer joint member and an inner joint member. A first shaft is coupled to the inner joint member for articulated movement with the inner joint member relative to the outer joint member. A boot is coupled to the first shaft and the outer joint member to seal the constant velocity joint assembly. An insert is secured to and supported within the boot adjacent to and in abutting engagement with an axial end of the outer joint member. The insert limits movement of the first shaft to within a pre-determined range of articulation to prevent disengagement and/or disassembly of the inner joint member relative to the outer joint member.
US08162766B2	Fixed type constant velocity universal joint A fixed type constant velocity universal joint includes an outer joint member having an inner spherical surface in which a plurality of track grooves extending in an axial direction are formed; an inner joint member having an outer spherical surface in which a plurality of track grooves extending in the axial direction while paired with the track grooves of the outer joint member are formed. A plurality of balls are interposed between the track grooves of each of the outer joint member and the inner joint member, for transmitting a torque, and a cage is interposed between the inner spherical surface of the outer joint member and the outer spherical surface of the inner joint member, for holding the balls. The outer joint member and the inner joint member each have a center curvature of the track grooves being offset from each other in a direction opposite to the axial direction by an equal distance with respect to a joint center, in which: a PCD gap (2×m) in a ball track formed between the track grooves of each of the outer joint member and the inner joint member is set to equal to or larger than 25 μm.
US08162764B2	Constant velocity universal joint An object of the present invention is to ensure the miniaturization, strength, durability, load-carrying capacity, and an operating angle of a constant velocity universal joint. Six balls 3 are disposed in the constant velocity universal joint. The ratio r1 (=PCDBALL/DBALL) between the pitch circle diameter PCDBALL (PCDBALL=2×PCR) of the ball 3 and the diameter DBALL thereof is set in a range of 1.5≦r1≦4.0. The ratio r2 (=DOUTER/PCDSERR) between the outside diameter DOUTER of an outer member 1 and the pitch circle diameter PCDSERR of serrations (or splines) 2d of an inner joint member 2 is set in a range of 3.0≦r2≦5.0.
US08162758B1	Implementing video contests A video hosting site allows a contest owner to specify parameters to be used for a contest. Examples of parameters include contest name, description, how the contest will be judged, who may enter the contest, etc. Once the parameters are set, a contest manager initiates the contest on behalf of the contest owner. Contests have a submission phase, a voting phase, and a results phase. During the submission phase, contestants submit video entries to be judged in the contest. During the voting phase, visitors to the video hosting site cast votes on some or all of the entered videos. During the results phase, the votes are tabulated and a winning video is determined. Alternative embodiments allow variations on each phase.
US08162756B2	Time and location based gaming An activating and deactivating of a gaming device may be based at least in part on a duration of time in which the gaming device is permitted to be activated, a period of time during which the gaming device is permitted to be activated, and/or a location of a user of the gaming device.
US08162754B2	Game device, notification method, non-transitory information recording medium and program for informing displacement of game controller mat A process control unit (306) controls a music reproduction unit (309) to output a music sound, while controlling a request content creation unit (305) to present content of a motion requested to the player. At the same time, the process control unit (306) compares content of the motion acquired from a motion content acquiring unit (302) with the presented, requested motion (and the timing) to evaluate the stepping motion of the player. Further, during the game, the process control unit (306) sequentially measures the amount of displacement of the game mat in accordance with the position, etc. of the controller, the position being detected by a controller detection unit (303). Then, when the measured amount of displacement exceeds a reference value, an alarm message is synthesized to a game screen and displayed, and the game mat displacement is informed to call attention of the player.
US08162751B2	Gaming machine with color changing cabinet A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game comprises a gaming machine cabinet having one or more colorable or color-changeable exterior sections. The color-changeable exterior sections comprise a translucent material that glows or shines when light is diffused through the material. Sections that are color-changeable include those sections that are visually dominant or affect the overall appearance of the gaming machine. A multi-color lighting assembly having one or more multi-color light sources is present. The multi-color lighting assembly may be operated to direct light having a predetermined color or sequence of colors. The light causes the color-changeable exterior sections to project the predetermined color or sequence of colors, thereby changing the overall appearance of the gaming machine. The predetermined color or sequence of colors may be selected randomly, or they may be based on the outcome of the wagering game.
US08162748B2	Gaming machine and system having secondary game A gaming system comprises a plurality of gaming machines (EGMs) and a secondary game control section. The secondary game control section is provided with a plurality of data sets having different target investment amount between two triggerings of the secondary game. The secondary game control section is adapted to receive a bet contribution from each of the EGMs and calculate an average bet amount from the received bet contributions. The secondary game control section selects one of the data sets depending on the calculated average bet amount, and determines whether the secondary game is triggered for each bet contribution from the EGMs using the target investment amount associated with the selected one of the data sets and a random number, and if it is determined that the secondary game is triggered, pays out a secondary game award to an EGM of which bet contribution triggered the secondary game.
US08162747B2	Game control method and apparatus for controlling resumption of game A game control program is provided to improve user convenience of a game. A game control unit executes a game program, and records a history into a history holding unit while controlling progress of the game. When an operation instruction to pause the game is accepted from the user, a pause control unit stops the progress of the game with the display screen at that point in time displayed. When a request to resume the game is accepted from the user, a resume control unit resumes the game after display screens and sound are reproduced from a point in time which is a predetermined period before the pausing point up to the pausing point.
US08162746B2	Gaming system and method configured to change the odds of a player obtaining a winning game outcome or a designated game outcome for a play of a game without changing the paytable of the game A gaming system and method that enables the odds of obtaining a winning outcome or a designated outcome for a play of a game to change without modifying the paytable of the game. The gaming system makes a first determination using a first processor based on a paytable of a game. The gaming system makes a second determination using a second processor, where the second determination may be based, at least in part, on the wager amount. The gaming system displays a single game outcome to the player and either provides the player with the highest award resulting from the determinations or any awards resulting from the determinations.
US08162744B2	Gaming machine executing effects using symbols and control method thereof A gaming machine of the present invention performs an effect of rotating an image displayed in each display block having a second specific symbol rearranged therein in a direction so as to turn a display screen of a display over to the other side after scroll-displaying a specific character image to the display in a direction from one side of a symbol display region toward the opposite side, and also changing the second specific symbol rearranged in the each display block into a first specific symbol, when the first specific symbol and the second specific symbol have been rearranged in the symbol display region and also when it has been determined to display the specific character image; and offers an award in accordance with the number of first specific symbols arranged in the symbol display region as a result thereof.
US08162743B2	Elimination games for gaming machines A disclosed gaming machine presents an elimination game to a player playing the gaming machine. The elimination game may be played on a stand-alone gaming machine or may be played on a group of gaming machines linked together. The elimination game is played by plurality of entities where each entity may comprise one or more virtual players or real players. The real players may pay a participation fee to play the elimination game. During the elimination game, the entities play one or more games that are provided as part of the elimination game. For example, video slot games and video poker games may be used for the game play in the elimination game. One or more elimination tests may be applied to the entities using results from the game play. When conditions used in the elimination tests are met for one of the entities, the entity is removed from the elimination game before reaching the finish of the elimination game. The last remaining entity that avoids elimination and reaches the finish of the elimination receives an award.
US08162742B2	Adjusting payback data based on skill A gaming device including an interface unit configured to accept game play data from a player and a controller coupled to the interface unit. The controller includes a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores payback data. The processor is configured to receive, via the interface unit, the game play data for the player playing a game, evaluate the received game play data based on predefined criteria, determine a level of skill of the player based at least on the evaluated game play data, and adjust the payback data based on the determined level of skill of the player.
US08162740B2	Wagering game with associated outcomes A gaming machine (10) for conducting a wagering game comprises a value input device (16) for receiving a wager from a player and a display (26) for displaying a first plurality of locations in a first formation and a second plurality of locations in a second formation. The second plurality of locations is associated with the first plurality of locations. A processor is operative to select at least one first location from the first plurality of locations to yield a first outcome, select at least one second location from the second plurality of locations to yield a second outcome, combine the first and second outcomes to yield a combined outcome, and provide an award based on the combined outcome.
US08162738B2	Lottery/online gaming bet administration system and method Embodiments of the disclosed technology provide a system and method for electronic lottery and or online gaming bet placement and management employing Radio Frequency Identification technology. The system and method both employ use of a plurality of passive RFID tags. Each tag comprises stored data. The data may include a read-only memory area and a writable memory area. The system and method also utilize a data storage medium under the operative control of a lottery/gaming administrator. The data storage medium contains data associated with a plurality of gambling accounts. The data may include personal information and payout information. Each gambling account is associated with at least one RFID tag via the unique read-only tag number stored therein.
US08162735B2	Method and apparatus for outputting outcomes of a gaming device In accordance with one or more embodiments, a method for outputting an outcome for a game of a gaming device is presented, wherein the method comprises first outputting an apparent outcome for the game and then outputting an actual outcome for the game. In one or more embodiments, a benefit corresponding to the apparent outcome may not be provided to the player playing the gaming device. For example, a hopper may be prevented from dispensing a payout associated with the apparent outcome. In accordance with one or more embodiments, a character (e.g., an animated character) may be displayed as changing the apparent outcome into the actual outcome.
US08162732B1	Display device, system and methods for a craps table A device, system and method for display for a craps table. In one example, a display may include a display portion operable to display a representation of data relating to a current die pair rolled by a shooter; and a display portion operable to display a representation of data relating to previous die pairs rolled. In one example, the representation of the data relating to the current die pair includes a graphic representation of the face of each die of the current die pair. A display may also include a display portion operable to display an indicator of a current point value of the craps game. Other features and embodiments are disclosed herein.
US08162722B2	Grindstone contact sensing method and its device, and honing method and honing machine A grindstone contact sensing technology capable of sensing the contact position of the honing grindstone with the inner circumference of the work at high precision. A servo motor for driving the spindle rotation, and a servo motor for driving the depth of cut are provided and used respectively as spindle rotation drive source for rotating and driving the rotary spindle having the honing tool and depth-of-cut drive source for moving the honing grindstone at a specified depth of cut, and the contact position of the honing grindstone with the inner circumference of the work is sensed from various electrical information (rotating speed, torque, current value, stagnant pulses, etc.) obtained from the operations of both the servo motors.
US08162720B2	Apparatus and method for polishing via driving abrasive grains mechanically and magnetically Disclosed is a polishing apparatus including a shell, a magnetic controller, an axle, a pusher, a ring, posts, and a stirring element. The shell includes a roof, a floor and a wall between the roof and the floor. Abrasive solution is filled in the shell. The abrasive solution includes abrasive grains and magnetic material. The magnetic controller is located around the wall. The axle can be engaged with a rotary element of a machine. The pusher is connected to the axle and inserted through the roof. A ring is located between the pusher and the wall. Posts are located between the ring and the floor. The stirring element is located on the floor.
US08162719B2	Method and device for processing lens The optical surface of a lens (21) held and rotated by the rotating shaft (12) of a lathe is cut or ground into an aspherical surface from a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating shaft (12) and the axial direction of the rotating shaft (12) while a processing locus (t) which is concentric or spiral about the rotating shaft (12) as the center is formed. In processing, the lens (21) is arranged in a grinding region (20) at a position spaced apart from the turning center (Zo) of the processing locus (t).
US08162718B2	Bra pad A bra pad includes a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film, a silicone gel layer and a cloth layer. The silicone gel layer is formed in a concave shape. On the edge of the silicone gel layers is attached to TPU films and the cloth layers. The silicone gel layers is semi-secured on the edge of the cloth layers to form the bar pad structure. Between the silicone gel layer and the TPU film, there is formed a first space and between the silicone gel layer and the cloth layer, there is formed a second space. The present bra pad employs the silicone gel material layer to enhance the softness and comfort. With the first and second space between the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film, the silicone gel layer, and the cloth layer, the bra pad has effective breathing capability and heat-dissipating capability.
US08162717B2	Toy vehicle having fanciful facial expression A toy vehicle includes a body supported by a plurality of wheels. The body also includes a roof and rear window supporting a plurality of user inputs. Within the toy vehicle body, a microprocessor controller drive and steering mechanism is operative. The operation of the microprocessor is set by the user inputs. The body further supports a movable bumper mouth and movable eyes and eyebrows behind the windshield.
US08162715B2	Remote-controlled toy vehicle A toy vehicle includes a chassis, a front road wheel supported for rotation from the chassis and a rear road wheel supported for rotation from the chassis. A reversible motor is supported from the chassis and is operatively coupled with one of the front and rear road wheels so as to rotate at least one of the front and rear road wheels to propel the toy vehicle in a forward direction. A wheelie mechanism is operatively connected to the motor and has a first end pivotally attached to the central axis of one of the front and rear road wheels.
US08162710B2	Method for producing plasma display panel with a bright display and a low operating voltage A method for producing a plasma display panel, the method including preparing a front panel and a rear panel, the front panel being a panel wherein a first electrode, a first dielectric layer and a protective layer are formed on a first substrate, and the rear panel being a panel wherein a second electrode, a second dielectric layer, a partition wall and a phosphor layer are formed on a second substrate; and opposing the front and rear panels with each other, and sealing the front and rear panels along their peripheries by a sealing material wherein the protective layer is heated to a temperature ranging from 1600° C. to 3600° C. before the sealing of the front and rear panels.
US08162698B2	Vandal proof NMO antenna mount An antenna mount is provided including a contact pin having first and second distal ends, a barrel encasing the contact pin, a base encasing the barrel, a terminal lug press fit within a cross-section of the base, and a set screw receptacle disposed in a portion of the base for receiving a set screw to secure an antenna to the base. The first and second distal ends of the contact pin extend past first and second distal ends of the barrel, the first distal end of the contact pin extends past a first distal end of the base, and a second distal end of the base surrounds the second distal end of the pin.
US08162693B2	Snap-in electrical connector with locking cam and method of use A connector assembly including a connector body with a locking cam defined on an external surface. In a method of use the locking cam cooperates with a perimeter of a knock-out hole into which the connector is to be inserted. During insertion of the connector body the locking cam engages the knock-out hole and deforms a retainer ring so as to permit further insertion. Once the connector body is fully seated, the locking cam cooperates with a locking tang on the retainer ring to hold the connector assembly together.
US08162692B2	Telecommunication connectors and apparatus for mounting the same A telecommunications assembly including: a connector housing; a bezel mounted on the connector housing, the bezel have a front face having an opening for receiving a plug, the opening having a recess for receiving a plug latch; a faceplate having a faceplate opening of a standard dimension; wherein the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in a flat orientation with the recess positioned downwards and the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in an angled orientation with the recess positioned upwards.
US08162689B2	Clamping device for connecting a conductor without stripping the insulation Disclosed is a clamping device for connecting a conductor without stripping the insulation. Said clamping device comprises a housing (14) and an actuating part (22 which is movably mounted therein and is provided with a duct (26) accommodating the conductor (50) that is to be clamped. A blade contact (18.1) is provided which encompasses a rear web (32) and two spring legs (36) that are placed at an angle therefrom. The spring legs (36) are fitted with contacting blades (48) on final edges that run into each other. Said contacting blades (48) penetrate the duct (26) and contact the conductor (50) accommodated therein while cutting the insulation thereof when the actuating part (22) is transferred into the contacting position thereof. A second contact piece (18.2) is provided which is electrically connected to the blade contact (18.1). The blade contact (18.1) and the second contact piece (18.2) are configured as a monolithic contact element (18) as a result of the fact that spring arms (34) whose ends are formed into a contact tube or a tulip contact (40) are placed at an angle from the rear web (32) of the blade contact (18.1) in addition to the spring legs (36).
US08162688B2	Connector receptacle housings having reduced-wear finger contacts and reduced seam visibility Structures, methods, and apparatus that provide connector receptacles that have a reduced tendency to scratch and otherwise mar connector inserts, have an aesthetically-pleasing appearance, and have an improved tactile response when inserts are inserted. Various examples reduce scratches and wear by utilizing domes, cylinders, balls, or other structures as finger contacts in a connector receptacle. Another example provides aesthetically-pleasing connector receptacle enclosures by forming receptacle enclosures using the same type of material, or material having the same or similar color or texture, as is used for enclosing the electronic device that includes the receptacle. Another example provides an aesthetically-pleasing receptacle enclosure by forming receptacle enclosures that are, in part or in whole, contiguous or formed with the housing.
US08162682B1	Power adapter combination The invention provides a power adapter combination including an adapter body and an adapter plug. The adapter body comprises a first casing having an inner space and a receiving recess structure with one side opened through the inner space, a circuit board disposed in the inner space, and a pair of connection terminals electrically connected with the circuit board and partially extending into the receiving recess structure. The adapter plug is detachably engaged into the receiving recess structure and comprises a second casing having a pair of slots thereon and a rear wall having a pair of holes, a bottom plate adapted to be assembled with the second casing, a pair of contact pins of which each has one pivoted end, is placed in one of the slots and is enabled to extend out of said one slot by rotation, and a pair of electrode structures mounted on the bottom plate and electrically connected with the contact pins, respectively. Each electrode structure has a half-pipe portion, wherein the pair of connection terminals are allowed to pass through the pair of holes of the rear wall of the second casing to electrically plug into the pair of half-pipe portions, respectively.
US08162677B2	Junction box and conductor strip connection device thereof A conductor strip connection device for a junction box of a solar module is disclosed and comprises a contact member having a contact segment for connecting to a conductor strip, a suppressing member having a suppressing part configured to cooperate with the contact segment of the contact member for securing a conductor strip, and a fastening member configured to assemble the suppressing member and the contact member together or disassemble the suppressing member from the contact member for allowing the suppressing member to cooperate with the contact segment of the contact member so as to secure or release the conductor strip.
US08162676B1	Electronic device having external connector An electronic device includes a shell, a connector, a PCB and a pin header. The connector is mounted on the shell and includes an external connection terminal inside the shell and an internal connection terminal inside the shell and connected to the external connection terminal. The PCB is received in the shell and defines a number of vias. Two ends of the pin header respectively detachably fit into the internal connection terminal and the vias.
US08162675B2	Connector shield with integrated fastening arrangement A shield for a connector that can provide a card-receiving slot is disclosed. The shield includes sides that provide an enclosure. The shield includes a fastener that is held in place by a retaining notch in a bottom of the shield. The retaining notch is configured to support the fastener in place and restrain it from unintended translation or rotation.
US08162672B2	High power receptacle connector A high power receptacle connector has a first insulating housing, a second insulating housing, a first terminal, a second terminal, a third terminal and a shell. The second insulating housing is mounted on the first insulating housing and has a cylinder. The first terminal is cylindrical, surrounds the cylinder and has multiple first resilient contacting tabs and a reinforcing ring formed on front ends of the first resilient contacting tabs. The second terminal is cylindrical and mounted around the cylinder and has multiple radially protruding second resilient contacting tabs. The second resilient contacting tabs increase the contacting areas, reduce the resistance of the terminals and further improve the power of the high power receptacle connector and stably hold an external plug connector.
US08162671B2	Receptacle structure, printed wiring board structure, and electronic device A receptacle structure includes a housing structure, a terminal insulating board, a first terminal and a second terminal. The housing structure is configured to be mounted on a printed wiring board and to accommodate a plug. The terminal insulating board includes a top face and a bottom face that is opposite to the top face. The terminal insulating board is disposed inside the housing structure with the bottom face facing towards the printed wiring board. The first terminal is connected to the printed wiring board via the first rear connection part and to the terminal insulating board. The second terminal is connected to the printed wiring board via the first front connection part and to the terminal insulating board. The first front connection part has a width narrower than the first rear connection part and is connected to the printed wiring board away from the first rear connection part.
US08162669B1	Ultrasound training assembly An ultrasound training assembly includes a tubular member that has a first end, a second end and a perimeter wall extending between the first and second ends. The perimeter wall has an aperture therein. A model representing an ultrasound probe includes a grip and a head attached together. The head has a distal edge with respect to the grip. The distal edge is elongated. An elongated member is attached to the distal edge and has a longitudinal axis orientated perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the model extending through the distal edge and a free end of the grip. The elongated member is spaced from the distal edge a distance between 0.5 inches and 2 inches. The elongated member is placed in the tubular member through the aperture to represent a vein which would be seen by an ultrasound probe represented by the model.
US08162658B2	Injection molding die There is provided an injection die characterized in that the injection die is separated into at least two pieces, that a cavity for frame is formed between the separated dies, that the cavity for frame is provided with an additional cavity via a coupling hole, and that the coupling hole communicating with the additional cavity is provided at a confluence point of a resin in melted condition of the cavity for frame, at around a gate, at around a cavity for a fixing component, or at around a cavity for frame of which thickness is deep.
US08162654B2	Apparatus for feeding resin Apparatus for feeding molten resin includes a holding unit that moves on a track and at least a pair of holders capable of holding and releasing the molten resin accompanying the opening and closing of the holding unit. A base portion is utilized for supporting the holders so as to be opened and closed and for holding the molten resin together with the holders. The molten resin discharged from an extrusion-forming machine and cut by a cutter is held by the holding unit, and it fed from the holding unit to a female mold of a compression-0molding machine. At the time of cutting the molten resin, a cutter mark is formed by the cutter on a cut surface of the molten resin.
US08162653B2	Pasta machine for domestic use with improved cover The item in subject is a pasta machine for domestic use, in which the surfaces of the various parts of the housing are composed of a microporous layer of aluminum oxide and completed with sealing of the micropores for hydration thus obtaining a micro-roughness with nonstick properties enabling the working of moist pasta.
US08162645B2	Apparatus for forming a polymer based part utilizing an assembleable, rotatable and vibratory inducing mold exhibiting a downwardly facing and pre-heated template surface An apparatus and related method for forming a three-dimensional polymer based part including a die tool having a specified shape and size and exhibiting an exposed polymer adhering surface corresponding in configuration to a polymeric based part to be created. A volume holding bin supports a three-dimensional article including at least one exposed and pattern defining surface. A volume of a granulated polymer material is deposited into the bin and around the article. A sub-volume of the material adheres to and forms a hardened layer upon the exposed pattern defining surface, a corresponding part created having a specified thickness and matching configuration.
US08162639B2	Reduction of wear on control cams An apparatus for treating containers such as, for example, liquid containers, may include at least one treatment unit, which treats the containers in a predetermined manner. The treatment unit may be moved along a specified path of travel. The apparatus may include a guiding cam, which is designed in such a way that it causes at least once along the path of travel a movement of the treatment unit in a direction extending vertically relative to the path of travel. The treatment unit may include a guiding element, which is at least at times in contact with the guiding cam, and wherein a force acting between the guiding element and the guiding cam varies at least at times along a specified area of the path of travel. In various aspects, the apparatus may include a force reduction device, which causes the force acting at a certain point of the area between the guiding cam and the guiding element to be reduced at least on average.
US08162636B2	Scroll compressor having partition wall in oil reservoir A scroll type compressor has a fixed scroll member, a movable scroll member, an oil reservoir, a back-pressure chamber, an oil extraction passage, a flow passage, and a partition wall. The back-pressure chamber disposed behind the movable scroll member is in communication with a discharge chamber. The oil extraction passage having a regulating valve or a throttle connects the back-pressure chamber to the oil reservoir. The oil return passage and the flow passage connect the oil reservoir to a suction chamber, respectively. The flow passage introduces excess lubricating oil into the suction chamber when the level of lubricating oil in the oil reservoir becomes higher than a predetermined level. The partition wall disposed between the openings of the oil extraction passage for restricting lubricating oil from the oil extraction passage other than the excess lubricating oil collected in the oil reservoir from flowing to the flow passage.
US08162634B2	Pulsatile rotary ventricular pump A roller pump conduit defining a pump chamber is provided. The roller pump conduit includes a roller contact portion having a fill region and a delivery region. The fill region has a first taper configured to determine volume delivery per revolution of a roller head. The delivery region has a pressure region having a second taper and a discharge region having a third taper. The third taper has a lesser degree of taper than the second taper. The delivery region is configured to produce a pulsatile flow out of the conduit. Furthermore, a roller pump having a roller pump conduit is provided. The roller pump conduit of the roller pump has a fill region and a delivery region, the fill region having a first taper, and the delivery region having a second and third taper, wherein the third taper has a lesser degree of taper than the second taper.
US08162633B2	Volumetric fluidics pump with translating shaft path A pump for moving a fluid through a fluidics system includes a surface and channel disposed along at least a portion of the surface. The pump also includes a driving mechanism having a rotatable shaft and a plurality of haptics operably coupled to the shaft. A closed portion is formed in the channel as the channel is compressed between the surface and at least one of the haptics, the closed portion having a thickness between the surface the haptic. The pump additionally has a circular path and a shaft path. The haptics are completely disposed inside the circular path and traversing the circular path during operation of the driving mechanism. The shaft path is traversed by shaft during operation of the driving mechanism, such at least one of the haptics is always in contact with the channel. The surface has a radius of curvature in the vicinity of the closed potion that is greater than the sum of a radius of the circular path and the thickness of the closed portion.
US08162631B2	Floating pinion bearing for a reciprocating pump A reciprocating pump assembly includes a power frame that houses a crankshaft. The crankshaft is mechanically connected to a large gear or bull gear on each end that is in mechanical engagement with a small gear or pinion bearing. A bearing housing is integrally formed as part of the power frame with an increased width and a constant inner diameter. A pinion bearing assembly, having an inner race, an outer race, and spherical bearings is placed around the shaft of the pinion bearing. The pinion is installed in the reciprocating pump assembly such that the bearing assembly rests on the bearing housing, which is integrally formed as part of the power frame. The bearing assembly is free to float in the bearing housing and provides for some lateral movement of the shaft and bearing assembly during operation of the reciprocating pump assembly.
US08162629B2	Piezoelectric pump A piezoelectric pump includes a pump body with a pump chamber, and a piezoelectric element that closes the pump chamber. The central area and the peripheral area of the piezoelectric element are bent in opposite directions by applying voltages to the piezoelectric element so that the volume of the pump chamber is changed. The piezoelectric element is a laminate including a plurality of piezoelectric layers with electrodes interposed therebetween. The central area and the peripheral area of each piezoelectric layer are polarized opposite to each other in the thickness direction, and the electrodes are formed such that voltages in the same direction in the thickness direction are applied to the central area and the peripheral area of each piezoelectric layer. Since voltages at the same potential are applied to the electrodes formed in the same planes of the piezoelectric layers, short-circuits caused by migration can be prevented.
US08162628B2	Wiring structure for use in micro piezoelectric pump An electrical connection structure for use in a micro piezoelectric pump is disclosed. The electrical connection structure includes a driving circuit board and a multilayered wiring structure. The electrical connection structure includes the driving circuit board, the wiring structure, and a piezoelectric element arranged from top to bottom. The driving circuit board is provided with a driving circuit for driving the piezoelectric element and at least an electrical contact, wherein the electrical contacts are electrically connected to the driving circuit. A first electrode contact region and a second electrode contact region electrically insulated from each other are defined on the same surface of the piezoelectric element. The wiring structure sends a signal from the electrical contacts to the first electrode contact region and the second electrode contact region.
US08162625B1	Nested motor, reduction motor reduction gear and pump with selectable mounting options A pump, reduction gear, motor combination wherein the reduction gear and pump have nesting shafts internal to at least one of the housings of the pump and reduction gears. The housings meet at cooperating front and rear flanges having a plurality of bores therethrough, and selection from a number of orientations is possible whereby a pump outlet can be selectively oriented at a number of predetermined orientations relative to the reduction gears. The reduction gears also preferably provide a base spaced from the front flange which provides for mounting to a support to thereby suspend the motor cantileveredly from the reduction gears.
US08162622B2	Compressor sound suppression A compressor apparatus (20) has a housing (22) having first (53) and second (58) ports along a flowpath. One or more working elements (26; 28) cooperate with the housing (22) to define a compression path between suction (60) and discharge (62) locations along the flowpath. A check valve (70; 170; 270) has a valve element (72; 172; 272) mounted for movement between a first condition permitting downstream flow along the flowpath and a second condition blocking a reverse flow. The valve element includes a resonator (112; 174; 274).
US08162620B2	Method for control of a pressurised air supply system for a motor vehicle A method for control of a pressurized air supply system for a motor vehicle. In a supply condition, the air compressor is driven by the drive motor and connected to a compressed air system of the motor vehicle such that compressed air is supplied to the compressed air system. In a non-supply condition, the compressor is not driven and/or connected to the compressed air system. The switching of the supply or non-supply condition results from a comparison of at least one switch pressure value with a pressure in the compressed air system and the topography of the stretch of road on which the vehicle is travelling, which includes the profile of the path which the vehicle must cover within a period of time and/or path distance to a given destination.
US08162619B2	Method for controlling the discharge pressure of an engine-driven pump A system for controlling the pressure output of an engine-driven centrifugal fire pump includes a discharge pressure sensor mounted in the discharge line of the pump. A governor varies the rpms of the engine in response to pressure changes detected by the discharge pressure sensor. If the pressure in the system is higher than the desired output pressure when the engine is running at its idle speed an electronically controlled hydraulic relief valve responsive to the discharge pressure sensor operates to relieve the excess pressure in over pressure situations. If the pressure in the system is lower than the desired output pressure when the relief valve is fully closed, the engine speed is increased.
US08162615B2	Split disk assembly for a gas turbine engine A split disk assembly for a gas turbine engine includes a forward disk section and an aft disk section, the aft disk section engageable with the forward disk section to retain a multitude of rotor blades therebetween.
US08162614B2	Workpiece, and also a welding method for the manufacture of a workpiece The invention relates to a workpiece (1), in particular a rotor disc, an impeller or guide wheel for a turbine, for a pump or for a compressor, including a base body (2) with a guide vane (3), wherein the guide vane (3) is welded in notch-free manner to the base body (2) and/or to a cover part (4). Furthermore, the invention relates to a welding method for the manufacture of a workpiece (1).
US08162610B1	Active directional control of airflows over wind turbine blades using plasma actuating cascade arrays Methods of utilizing plasma actuating cascade arrays for actively controlling airflow over wind turbine blades are described herein. These methods may include providing plasma actuating cascade arrays that include dielectrics and electrodes. The electrodes and dielectrics are electrically operated to generate plasma clusters, and to induce directional airflows in response to the plasma clusters. The methods may also include configuring the plasma actuating cascade arrays based, at least in part, on characteristics of the wind turbine blades and characteristics of energy generation regimes and scenarios.
US08162609B1	Turbine airfoil formed as a single piece but with multiple materials An air cooled turbine airfoil includes a multiple pass serpentine flow cooling circuit formed from a metallic printing process in which the blade can be printed from different materials as a single piece blade. The blade includes a multiple pass serpentine cooling circuit in which the channels include ribs and pin fins that are formed perpendicular to the airfoil wall. The inner chordwise extending rib, the ribs and the f[pin fins and the outer airfoil wall call all be printed as a single piece but all with a different material in order to control the metal temperature of the blade. a seven pass serpentine flow cooling circuit can be formed that flows along the pressure side wall and then the suction side wall and use low flow cooling amount.
US08162608B2	Wind turbine, yaw system controller and yaw system for a wind turbine and method of reducing the loads acting on such a yaw system Wind turbine, yaw system controller and yaw system for a wind turbine and method of reducing the loads on such a yaw system.A method for reducing the loads acting on a wind turbine yaw system (19) due to yawing moments which are induced to the yaw system (19) by a rotor which comprises at least one rotor blade with a pitch control system is provided. In the method, the yawing moment which is induced to the yaw system (19) by the rotor is determined and the pitch of the at least one rotor blade is set based on the detected yawing moment such that the determined yawing moment is reduced.
US08162607B2	Rotor blade for a rotary wing aircraft A rotor blade including a rotor blade profile including a profile tip region, a profile trailing edge region including a trailing edge and a profile body having a profile core. A covering skin including an upper skin and a lower skin encase the profile core. A reversibly bendable flexural actuator including a first actuator end disposed at the trailing edge region of the rotor blade profile and a second actuator end projecting past the profile body toward the trailing edge. The second actuator end forms part of the trailing edge region and forms a movable rotor blade flap, the movable rotor blade flap being deformable into an arc-shaped rotor blade flap deflection upon a bending of the flexural actuator.
US08162605B2	Gas turbine engine case A case for a gas turbine engine includes a single-piece case that includes a combustor case portion and a turbine case portion that is integrally formed with the combustor case portion as one piece. In one example, the single-piece case includes a transition duct/mid-turbine frame case portion is integrally formed with the combustor and turbine case portions.
US08162604B2	Diffusor The guide device for the diffusor at the compressor impeller outlet of a radial compressor has guide blades with stepped inlet edges. The step is implemented by setting back the hub-side inlet edge. This meridional stepping divides the guide blades into two component blades, of which the first component blade is made longer than the second component blade. The set-back of the inlet edge of the hub-side component blade and the associated superposition of the noise fields which are produced on the front and rear inlet edge of the diffusor leads to improvement of the acoustic properties of the compressor.
US08162603B2	Vane frame for a turbomachine and method of minimizing weight thereof A vane frame for a turbomachine and a method for minimizing the weight of a vane frame. The vane frame includes an inner shroud made up of a plurality of inner shroud segments, an outer shroud circumscribing the inner shroud and made up of a plurality of outer shroud segments, and guide vanes structurally interconnecting the inner and outer shrouds. The guide vanes include a plurality of first guide vanes between and connecting first pairs of the inner and outer shroud segments, and a plurality of second guide vanes between and connecting second pairs of the inner and outer shroud segments. The first and second guide vanes are formed of different first and second materials, respectively, with the first material having lower strength, modulus, and/or density than the second material. The structural interconnection between the inner and outer shrouds is dominated by the second guide vanes.
US08162601B2	Surface treatment method and repair method A method for forming a dense coating on a limited region of a subject body is disclosed. The method is composed of the steps of: applying one selected from the group of a compressed body of a powder of a metal and a sintered compressed body of a powder of a metal to a working electrode; executing discharge deposition to deposit a first coating from the working electrode on the subject body by applying the subject body as a workpiece of the discharge deposition; executing discharge deposition to deposit a second coating from the working electrode on the first coating by applying the subject body as a workpiece of the discharge deposition; and heating the subject body in one selected from the group of a vacuum, an air and an oxidizing atmosphere so as to densify the second coating or oxidizing the second coating at least in part to generate a solid lubricant substance.
US08162600B2	System, method and apparatus for two-phase homogenizing stage for centrifugal pump assembly A two-phase, homogenizing or mixing stage for a centrifugal pump assembly homogenizes the fluids being circulated therethrough. The mixing stage produces high shut-in head pressure and a very high maximum flow rate. The mixing stage has a diffuser with fixed diffuser vanes that extend radially or tangentially at acute angles. The vanes may be curved in both the axial and radial directions to force fluids impinging thereon to have a radially inward component to create turbulence. The turbulence mixes and homogenizes the gas and liquid fluids to improve the overall performance of centrifugal pump assemblies that operate in two-phase fluids. The mixing stage also has an impeller adjacent the diffuser. The impeller vanes likewise extend radially and tangentially therefrom at acute angles and may be curved.
US08162599B2	Stepped stator blade A blade for a stator in a torque converter including a first face, which includes a first step, and a second face located substantially circumferentially opposite the first face. In one embodiment, the first face includes first and second disjointed or misaligned segments, and the first step connects the first and second segments. In another embodiment, the second face includes a second step. In yet another embodiment, the second face includes third and fourth disjointed or misaligned segments, and the second step connects the first and second segments.
US08162597B2	Stage of variable-pitch vanes for a turbomachine A stage of variable-pitch vanes for a turbomachine is disclosed. The vanes include internal pivots engaged in corresponding housings of a sectorized internal ring. Each ring sector includes axial orifices for mounting two pins for the radial retention of the ring sector on the internal pivot of a vane. Each pin includes an immobilization device cooperating by shape coupling with a complementary immobilization device of the other pin in order to rotationally immobilize these pins in the orifices in the ring sectors.
US08162596B1	Support device for high pressure pumps usable in or on the deck of a marine vessel An improved method and apparatus for supporting and adapting high pressure pumping apparatus for use on or in a marine vessel subject to direct dynamic motions imparted to the marine vessel without damaging the pumping apparatus to thereby extend the useful life of the pumping apparatus. For this purpose the method and apparatus is designed to prevent the deflection of the bearings by providing an axial support and radial damping to vibrations resulting from the motions imparted to the marine vessel. In addition, the pumping shaft is protected when inoperative by preventing the pumping shaft from rotation. Specifically the method and apparatus provide the suction vessel housing the high pressure pumping apparatus to be secured to the marine vessel's deck at all times along with the provision for absorbing the vibrations and stresses due to the marine vessel's movements imparted thereto by being subjected to the direct dynamic motions. The suction vessel for the pumping apparatus is relieved of the stresses at the head plate for the suction vessel by securing the bottom of the pumping apparatus to the suction vessel at all times. The pumping shaft is supported from the bottom of a vertical shaft for axially moving the shaft upwardly to keep the supporting bearing out of deflection so no forces are transmitted to the bearings when the pumping apparatus is non-operational and also prevents the pumping shaft from rotating.
US08162594B2	Cooled blade for a turbomachine A cooled blade forming an upstream guide vane element for a turbomachine is disclosed. The airfoil includes a longitudinal cavity with a first opening at one end and a second opening at the other end, a tubular sleeve being housed in the cavity with a first end in the first opening and a second end in the second opening, first spacers on the side of the first end, and second spacers on the side of the second end of the sleeve making a space between the outer face of the sleeve and the wall of the cavity. The blade is arranged so that the sleeve is inserted into the cavity through the first opening. The first spacers are secured to the sleeve and the second spacers are secured to the wall of the cavity of the airfoil. The invention makes it possible to mount the sleeve despite an accentuated curvature of the profile of the airfoil.
US08162590B2	Wind turbine blade and a pitch controlled wind turbine The invention relates to a wind turbine blade comprising one or more turbulence generating strips, where the strips are placed on a surface of the blade. The blade is characterized in that at least one joint area of the turbulence generating strips and the surface of the blade are completely or partially covered by sealing means. The invention further relates to a pitch controlled wind turbine comprising at least two pitch controlled wind turbine blades and pitch controlling means for pitching the blades. The pitch controlled wind turbine is characterized in that the blades comprises one or more turbulence generating strips, wherein at least one joint area of the turbulence generating strips and a surface of the blades are completely or partially covered by sealing means.
US08162587B2	Method and system for supplying portable gas cylinders A method of supplying a portable medical gas system is provided. The disclosed method includes preparing a portable medical gas system, the portable medical gas system including a cylinder adapted to be filled with medical gas and a gas dispensing valve. The portable medical gas system is place in a specialized container having a configuration adapted to hold the portable medical gas system only when the cylinder of portable medical gas system is unused state or empty state. The portable medical gas system is delivered to the customer, and returned as an empty cylinder via commercial carrier. Upon receipt of the empty or spent portable medical gas system, another portable medical gas system filled with medical gas is sent to the customer. In one embodiment, the portable medical gas system includes a single-use flow control valve which ensures the cylinder is empty after its initial use.
US08162581B2	Release pin A releasable locking member, having a handle, a spindle, and a shank connected at a first end to the handle. The shank has an opening extending through along a longitudinal axis thereof. A shaft extends through an opening of the shank. The shaft has a first portion, a second portion, and a central portion extending between the first and second portions. An actuator member is connected to the first portion of the shaft. A spindle is connected to the second portion of the shaft. A biasing member is positioned between the actuator member and a wall of the handle.
US08162580B2	Anti-theft fastener The anti-theft fastener has a shearing head, a shaft and a fastening element. The shearing head has at least one shearing tab. The shaft is threaded and connected the shearing head. The fastening element is mounted around the shearing head and has an outer surface having a countersink and at least one shearing recess. The countersink is formed in the outer surface around the connecting hole. The at least one shearing recess is formed in countersink, and corresponds to the at least one shearing tab, and each shearing recess has at least one shearing surface, whereby the at least one shearing tab is broken off by the shearing surface of the fastening element.
US08162578B2	Adjustable fastener An adjustable fastener includes a main body and an elastic portion. The elastic portion is connected to an end of the main body. The elastic portion is deformable thus changing a total length of the adjustable fastener.
US08162574B2	Vehicular cargo retention system with sliding engagement A system including apparatus and methods for compressively retaining cargo to a vehicular or other surface may, after an initial “rough” adjustment, allow for the operation of a compression force enhancement element to enhance a compression force through relative sliding movement and so that cargo may be retained as intended. Aspects of the inventive technology may relate to the allowance for one-handed manipulation of the compression force enhancement element (e.g., a rotatable lever) through perhaps less than one-quarter of a rotation in order to enhance the compression force.
US08162570B2	Powder feeding device for spray coating powder A spraycoating powder feed apparatus includes a powder pump of which the direction of feed is reversible and a conduit switch configured to alternately link either of two powder conduits to a powder hookup of the powder pump as a function of the conveyance direction of the powder pump.
US08162567B2	Water retention cell structures An assembly of hollow frustum-shaped bodies arranged and supported on a horizontal support structure is used to form a core structure for water retention cells. The assemblies are arranged in alternately inverted layers with the ends of the frustum-shaped bodies interconnected to form vertical support columns which are horizontally stabilized by horizontal support structure.
US08162564B2	Surface compactor and method of operating a surface compactor A method of operating a surface compactor is provided. The method may include supporting a base of the surface compactor on a surface. The method may also include generating a fluctuating vertical force on the base with a vibratory mechanism, which may include moving one or more weights of the vibratory mechanism with a drive system of the vibratory mechanism. Additionally, the method may include sensing a parameter of the operation of the vibratory mechanism that fluctuates in reaction to moving the one or more weights to generate the fluctuating vertical force. The method may also include automatically adjusting the operation of the vibratory mechanism to adjust the fluctuating vertical force based at least in part on the sensed parameter.
US08162563B2	Aquifer replenishment system with filter Provided is an aquifer replenishing pavement formed above soil having a sand lens above the aquifer and a clay layer above the sand lens. The pavement includes an aggregate leach field having an aggregate top surface, and an aggregate bottom surface abutting the clay layer. The pavement further includes a pavement layer having an exposed pavement top surface, and a pavement bottom surface abutting the aggregate leach field. A surface drain extends through the pavement layer to drain fluid from the exposed pavement top surface to the aggregate leach field. An aggregate drain extends from the aggregate leach field into the sand lens through the clay layer to drain fluid from the aggregate leach field into the aquifer. A filter is disposed within one of the surface drain and the aggregate drain. The filter is configured to remove foreign particulates from fluid passing therethrough.
US08162561B2	Integrated joiner improvements An adjustable joining assembly having a particular application in knock down furniture, the joiner having a channel position on its lower surface that allows the joining to locate itself on to a screw thread and direct the screw thread towards an internal threaded gear section which upon rotation of the gear section provides a tightening of the joiner.

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