最新美国发明专利第2012-08-14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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US08242337B1	Maize variety hybrid 10124870 A novel maize variety designated 10124870 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 10124870 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into 10124870 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety 10124870, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety 10124870. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety 10124870.
US08242333B1	Soybean variety XBP25006 A novel soybean variety, designated XBP25006 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP25006, cells from soybean variety XBP25006, plants of soybean XBP25006, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP25006. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP25006 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic, mutant trait, and/or native trait into soybean variety XBP25006, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP25006. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP25006 are further provided.
US08242331B2	Soybean cultivar 89126133 A soybean cultivar designated 89126133 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 89126133, to the plants of soybean 89126133, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 89126133, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 89126133 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety 89126133, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 89126133, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar 89126133 with another soybean cultivar.
US08242330B1	Soybean cultivar 05KG104848 The present invention is in the field of soybean cultivar 05KG104848 breeding and development. The present invention particularly relates to the soybean cultivar 05KG104848 and its progeny, and methods of making 05KG104848.
US08242329B2	Polypeptides having cellulolytic enhancing activity and polynucleotides encoding same The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having cellulolytic enhancing activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides.
US08242327B2	Reverse breeding A method for efficiently producing homozygous organisms from a heterozygous non-human starting organism, comprising providing of a heterozygous starting organism; allowing the starting organism to produce haploid cells; creating homozygous organisms from the haploid cells thus obtained; and selecting the organisms having the desired set of chromosomes, wherein during production of the haploid cells no recombination occurs in order to obtain a limited number of genetically different haploid cells. Recombination can also be prevented or suppressed.
US08242325B2	Wound covering and its method of production by extrusion coating The invention relates to a production method for a foam wound dressing with an outer germ barrier, in particular a film layer, and to a wound dressing obtained by such a method. In the method according to the invention, the germ barrier is generated by means of extrusion directly on the foam support. This results in a more reliable union between foam layer and germ barrier, without thereby compromising the absorbency of the foam in respect of wound exudate. The proposed method is simple and inexpensive and is able to satisfy all the requirements of the medical sector (e.g. freedom from solvents).
US08242324B2	Removal of Hg, NOx, and SOx with using oxidants and staged gas/liquid contact A method of scrubbing mercury compounds and nitrogen oxides from a gas stream employing a scrubbing operation. The method involves the contact of the stream which contains mercury, SOx and NOx compounds with a sorbent to remove at least a portion of the latter compounds. This results in a partially cleaned stream. The method further involves contacting the latter stream with an oxidant to oxidize and remove substantially all residual nitrogen oxides, mercury and mercury compounds remaining in the stream.
US08242321B2	Processes for transalkylating aromatic hydrocarbons A process for transalkylating aromatic hydrocarbon compounds, the process comprising introducing an aromatic hydrocarbon feed stream and a water source to a transalkylation zone. The feed stream contacts a catalyst in the transalkylation zone in the presence of water, and produces a reaction product stream comprising benzene and xylene. The invention includes methods to control the transalkylation process.
US08242320B2	Cumene production with high selectivity Cumene production methods are disclosed, based on the alkylation of benzene with propylene, in which byproducts of the alkylation reaction are advantageously reduced to achieve a high cumene selectivity. This may be attained by (i) reducing the portion of the total alkylation effluent that is recycled, after cooling, to the alkylation reaction zone for quenching or direct heat exchange and/or (ii) reducing the benzene:propylene molar ratio of the alkylation feedstock. To manage the temperature differential across catalyst bed(s) in the alkylation reaction zone, indirect heat exchange may be used to remove heat.
US08242317B2	Method for recovery of halogenated hydrocarbons Recovery of a halogenated hydrocarbon is performed by removing the halogenated hydrocarbon from an accompanying gas and/or temporarily storing the halogenated hydrocarbon on sorption filters, and releasing the halogenated hydrocarbon in targeted manner. The halogenated hydrocarbon serves for removal of an expiration gas using a steam carrier. A flow of the halogenated hydrocarbon takes place through two sorbents, (1) a hydrophobic carbon molecular sieve and (2) a hydrophobic zeolite, in two sorbent beds, spatially following one another. Air mixed with steam or steam has a temperature of the gases between 90° C. and 100° C. at normal pressure. In a filter for carrying out theabove recovery method, two filter beds are disposed to spatially follow one another.
US08242310B2	Processes for the preparation of aminosulfone compounds Processes for synthesizing aminosulfone compounds are provided. Aminosulfone compounds obtained using methods provided herein are useful in production or synthesis of isoindoline based PDE 4 modulators.
US08242309B2	Cationic alcohols and uses thereof Compositions are disclosed comprising novel fluorinated cationic alcohols in a cosmetically acceptable vehicle. The fluorinated compounds alter a surface property of the hair to provide hair conditioning, for example. In embodiments, the compounds have improved water solubility and deposition properties.
US08242308B2	Process for producing acrylic acid The process for the distillation of a gas mixture comprising (meth)acrylic acid obtained from the gas-phase oxidation of at least one (meth)acrylic acid precursors is improved through the use of coupled distillation columns. In a first column, the gaseous mixture is dehydrated while in a second column, the dehydrated gaseous mixture is distilled into product, overhead and bottoms streams.
US08242307B1	Site-specific cleavage of nucleic acids by photoreactive conjugates A process of forming a double strand cleavage in DNA includes providing a reaction mixture containing double stranded DNA having a break in a first strand defining a target site in a second strand. The method continues by adding to the reaction mixture a photoreactive lysine conjugate selected from a lysine-enediyne conjugate, a lysine-acetylene conjugate or a combination thereof, for a time sufficient for the lysine conjugate to bind to the DNA adjacent the target site. The reaction mixture is then irradiated with electromagnetic radiation sufficient to photoactivate the lysine conjugate to cleave the second strand adjacent the target site.
US08242301B2	Mixed fluoroalkyl-alkyl surfactants A surfactant of formula 1 (Rf-A)a-Q-([B]k—R)b Formula 1 wherein a and b are each independently 1 or 2; Rf is a linear or branched perfluoroalkyl radical having from 2 to about 20 carbon atoms, optionally interrupted with at least one oxygen; R is a C1 to C20 linear, branched or cyclic alkyl, or a C6 to C10 aryl; B is —(CH2CHR1O)X—, k is 0 or 1, x is 1 to about 20, A is —(CH2)m[(CHR1CH2O)]S—[(CH2)m(CH)tCHOH(CH2)m]e—, wherein each m is independently 0 to 3, s is 0 to about 30, t is 0 or 1, and e is 0 or 1, R1 is H or CH3, Q is: —OP(O)(O−M+)(O)—, —O—, —S—(CH2)m—C(O)—O—, —SO2—O— —CH2CH2O—C(O)CH2C(OH)(V)CH2C(O)O—; —(CH2CH2O)XCH2CH(OH)—(CH2CH2O)X—(CH2)m—Si[OSi(R2)3]2—, —SO2NR2—, —(CH2CH2O)ZC(O)CH(SO3−M+)CH2C(O)(OCH2CH2)Z— wherein z is 1 to about 15, or a bond when s is a positive integer, V is —C(O)OR3 and R3 is H, CH3 or Rf; R2 is C1 to C4 alkyl, and M+ is a Group 1 metal or an ammonium (NHXR2y)+ cation wherein x+y=4, and R2 is C1 to C4 alkyl, provided that when Q is —OP(O)(O−M+)(O)— or when Q is —(CH2CH2O)Z—C(O)CH(SO3−M+)CH2C(O)(OCH2CH2)Z—, then at least one of s or e is a positive integer.
US08242292B2	Method of producing 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid Provided is a method of producing FDCA by which high-purity FDCA can be produced in high yield. 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid is produced by: bringing 5-hydroxymethylfurfural into contact with an oxidant in an organic acid solvent in the presence of bromine and a metal catalyst; and allowing 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and the oxidant to react with each other while removing water produced by the reaction.
US08242289B2	Alkyl-substituted tetrahydropyrans as flavoring substances The present invention relates to alkyl-substituted tetrahydropyrans, mixtures containing these alkyl-substituted tetrahydropyrans, their respective use and corresponding flavored products.
US08242285B2	N-tert-butoxycarbonyl-2-pyrrolidinones and production method thereof N-tert-butoxycarbonyl-2-pyrrolidinones represented by the following formula (1). In the formula (1), R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 independently represent a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a cyano group, a linear, branched or cyclic alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, which may have a substituent, a linear, branched or cyclic alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, which may have a substituent, or the like, R1 and R2 may be linked to form a >C═O group along with the carbon atom to which both are attached, R3 and R4 may be linked to form a >C═O group along with the carbon atom to which both are attached, R5 and R6 may be linked to form a >C═O group along with the carbon atom to which both are attached, or any two among R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 may be linked to form a polymethylene group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms which may have a substituent.
US08242281B2	Substituted 2, 6-diamino-3, 5-dicyano-4-arylpyridines and their use as adenosine-receptor-selective ligands The present invention relates to substituted 2,6-diamino-3,5-dicyano-4-arylpyridines of the formula (I) wherein the definitions of substituent groups R1-R7 are as provided in the specification and claims, to a pharmaceutical composition containing such a compound, to a process for preparation of such materials, and to their use as medicaments for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders and diabetes.
US08242279B2	Process for preparing 2-amino-5-cyanobenzoic acid derivatives Disclosed is a method for preparing a compound of Formula 1 comprising contacting a compound of Formula 2 with a metal cyanide reagent, a copper(I) salt reagent, an iodide salt reagent and at least one compound of Formula 3 wherein R1 is NHR3 or OR4; R2 is CH3 or Cl; R3 is H, C1-C4 alkyl, cyclopropyl, cyclopropylcyclopropyl, cyclopropylmethyl or methylcyclopropyl; R4 is H or C1-C4 alkyl; X is Br or Cl; and R5, R6, R7 and R8 are as defined in the disclosure. Also disclosed is a method for preparing a compound of Formula 4 wherein R11, R12, R13 and Z are as defined in the disclosure, using a compound of Formula 1 characterized by preparing the compound of Formula 1 by the method disclosed above or using a compound of Formula 1 prepared by the method disclosed above.
US08242278B2	Process for producing biaryl compound A process for producing a biaryl compound, characterized by reacting an arylhydrazine compound, hydrogen peroxide and an aryl compound. When the reaction is conducted in the presence of a given metal or a compound of the metal or in the presence of a metal oxide obtained by reacting the given metal or a compound of the metal with hydrogen peroxide, then the yield of the biaryl compound is improved.
US08242276B2	Methods for the preparation of N-(S)-1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]oct-3-yl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride salt The present invention provides novel methods for preparing N—(S)-1 -azabicyclo[2.2.2]oct-3-yl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide HCl salt 1, a nicotinic α-7 receptor ligand, that are useful for the scaled-up preparation of compound 1. Compound 1 is useful in the treatment of disease conditions associated with defective or malfunctioning nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, especially of the brain, such as for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia, as well as other psychiatric and neurological disorders.
US08242275B2	Bicyclic pyrazole compounds as antibacterial agents Antibacterial compounds, compositions containing them, and methods of use for the inhibition of bacterial activity and the treatment, prevention or inhibition of bacterial infection.
US08242274B2	Triazolopyridine kinase inhibitors useful for the treatment of degenerative and inflammatory diseases A novel [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyridine compound is disclosed that has a formula represented by the following: This compound may be prepared as a pharmaceutical composition, and may be used for the prevention and treatment of a variety of conditions in mammals including humans, including by way of non-limiting example, diseases involving cartilage degradation, bone and/or joint degradation, for example osteoarthritis; and/or conditions involving inflammation or immune responses, such as Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, allergic airways disease (e.g. asthma, rhinitis), juvenile idiopathic arthritis, colitis, inflammatory bowel diseases, endotoxin-driven disease states (e.g. complications after bypass surgery or chronic endotoxin states contributing to e.g. chronic cardiac failure), diseases involving impairment of cartilage turnover (e.g. diseases involving the anabolic stimulation of chondrocytes), congenital cartilage malformations, diseases associated with hypersecretion of IL6 and transplantation rejection (e.g. organ transplant rejection) and proliferative diseases.
US08242273B2	Synthesis of 4/5-pyrimidinylimidazoles via sequential functionalization of 2,4-dichloropyrimidine This invention relates to methods of making pyrimidinyl-substituted imidazole compounds by sequential substitution of the 4- and 2-chloro groups of 2,4-dichloropyrimidine, nucleophilic substitution to form pyrimidinylalkyne derivatives, oxidation to the corresponding 1,2-diketones, and cyclocondensation reactions.
US08242268B2	Production of bepromoline A process for the preparation of a compound of formula (Ib): including contacting a compound of formula (Ia): with toluene and HCl gas to provide the compound of formula (Ib).
US08242266B2	Phosphorus-containing benzoxazines and preparing method thereof The Phosphorus-containing bisphenols and preparing method thereof are disclosed. A method for producing the phosphorus-containing bisphenol of the formula (1) includes reacting compounds respectively defined by a formula (a), (b), (c) and an acid catalyst to yield compounds of phosphorus-containing bisphenol.
US08242262B2	Process for preparing chlorides of phthalocyanine derivatives comprising at least a quaternary ammonium group A process is described for preparing chlorides of phthalocyanine derivatives comprising at least a quaternary ammonium group, products useful as photosensitizing agents in photodynamic therapy.
US08242255B2	Antisense oligonucleotides against cPLA2, compositions and uses thereof Antisense oligonucleotides against cPLA2 are provided, which are capable of inhibiting cPLA2 expression as well as superoxide production, especially in phagocytes. These antisense oligonucleotides are powerful agents for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, in particular arthritis, as well as in neurodegenerative diseases. The antisense oligonucleotides or compositions comprising the same may be used in methods of treatment of such diseases.
US08242252B2	CD19 binding agents and uses thereof This invention relates to CD 19 binding agents and methods of using such CD 19 binding agents for treating disease.
US08242247B2	Bivalent, bispecific antibodies The present invention relates to novel domain exchanged, bivalent, bispecific antibodies, their manufacture and use.
US08242244B2	Selective incorporation of 5-hydroxytryptophan into proteins in mammalian cells This invention provides methods and compositions for incorporation of an unnatural amino acid into a peptide using an orthogonal aminoacyl tRNA synthetase/tRNA pair. In particular, an orthogonal pair is provided to incorporate 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan in a position encoded by an opal mutation.
US08242242B2	Preparation of an artificial transcription factor comprising zinc finger protein and transcription factor of prokaryote, and a use thereof The present invention relates to an artificial transcription factor which can artificially regulate gene expression of an E. coli, wherein the transcription factor comprising zinc finger proteins and transcription factors of prokaryote, and to be engineered E. coli using the same. Specifically, the artificial transcription factors comprising zinc finger domains and transcription factors in E. coli as effector domains are prepared and said artificial transcription library is introduced to E. coli to effectively and artificially regulate gene expression regardless of an activity of endogenous transcription factors in the E. coli and to induce E. coli having various desired phenotypes. Thus, only E. coli having the desired phenotypes useful for industries can be selected and used.
US08242240B2	Anti-inflammatory compounds and uses thereof The present invention provides anti-inflammatory compounds, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods of use thereof for treating inflammatory disorders. The present invention also provides methods of identifying anti-inflammatory compounds and methods of inhibiting NF-κB-dependent target gene expression in a cell.
US08242237B2	Phase separator and monomer recycle for supercritical polymerization process A process for polymerizing olefins, comprising the steps of: (a) contacting in a dense-fluid-homogeneous-polymerization system (“PS”), >30 wt % C3+ olefins with: catalyst, activator, 0-50 mol % comonomer, and 0-40 wt % diluent/solvent, at a temperature > PS Tc and a pressure no lower than 1 MPa below the PS cloud point pressure and <200 MPa; (b) forming a reactor effluent comprising polymer-monomer mixture; (c) optionally heating the mixture (b); (d) collecting the mixture (b) in a separation vessel; (e) reducing the pressure to form a two-phase mixture where the pressure in the reactor is 7-100 MPa higher than the pressure in the separation vessel and the temperature in the separation vessel is > the polymer or above 80° C., whichever is higher; (f) separating the monomer-rich phase from the polymer-rich phase; (g) recycling the separated monomer-rich phase and recovering polymer from the polymer-rich phase.
US08242233B2	Manufacturing process for poly (arylene sulphide) This invention relates to a method of preparing poly(arylene sulfide) (PAS) from an iodo compound and a sulfur compound, and more particularly, to a method of preparing PAS, including adding a sulfur-containing polymerization terminator when PAS is produced using an iodo compound as an intermediate. Thereby, in final PAS, the residual iodine content may be maintained at the same level or decreased and other properties may be maintained at equal or superior levels, thanks to the use of the sulfur-containing polymerization terminator, which is much lower in price than conventional polymerization terminators.
US08242231B2	Method for recycling amine catalyst in interfacial polycarbonate manufacturing process The present invention relates to an improved process for recycling a coupling catalyst, preferably an amine catalyst in an interfacial polycarbonate manufacturing process. Specifically, the amine catalyst is recycled in an acidic wash water solution.
US08242224B2	Polyvinylamide polymers containing polymerizable functionalities The present invention relates to a polymerizable polymer formed from an N-vinyl amide monomer and containing a polymerizable functionality. In one approach, a dual functional monomer may be employed. In the case where the dual functional monomer incorporates glycidyl methacrylate, a third polymerizable monomer is also included. In a second approach, a monomer with polymerizable functionality can be grafted onto a pre-existing, suitable N-vinyl amide co-polymeric material, yielding a co-polymer comprising a polymerizable functionality. where x+y+z+a=100.
US08242222B2	Polysiloxane, acrylic compound and vinylic compound A polysiloxane includes a structural unit in which a functional group represented by a general formula of (in the formula, each of R1, R2, and R3 is independently an alkyl group with a carbon number of 1 or more and 6 or less and m is an integer of 2 or more and 6 or less), an ester bond or an amide bond, a spacer, and a silicon atom are bonded sequentially.
US08242219B1	Method of making polyolefin nanocomposites The method for producing polyolefin nanocomposites uses an aluminum nitride (AlN) nano-filler as a promoter of olefin polymerization with a metallocene catalyst. The method of making the polyolefin nanocomposites begins by combining a metallocene catalyst, such as a zirconocene catalyst, with aluminum nitride in a reactor. The reactor is then charged with toluene and methylaluminoxane, methylaluminoxane acting as a co-catalyst. The reactor is then heated at a constant temperature, and ethylene is added to the reactor to initiate polymerization of a polyethylene nanocomposite. Polymerization is then quenched by the addition of acidic methanol to the reactor, and un-reacted monomer is vented from the reactor. The resultant polyethylene nanocomposite is then washed in methanol and dried. The aluminum nitride nano-filler promotes the conversion of the olefin monomer to the polyolefin.
US08242213B2	Method for manufacturing polyradical compound and battery In the present invention, in order to provide an electrode active material that has a high capacity density and from which a large current can be extracted and to provide a battery that has a high energy density and produces a large output, in a battery comprising at least a cathode, an anode and an electrolyte, a polyradical compound having a partial structure represented by the following general formula (2) is used as an electrode active material for at least one of the cathode and the anode, wherein, in the formula (2), R1 to R3 independently represent a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; and R4 to R7 independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms.
US08242211B2	Method for producing a dispersion comprising a two stage reaction product and an associated coating The present invention is directed to a method for producing a dispersion comprising: (a) forming a first reaction product by reacting: (a1) at least one monomer comprising an ethylenically unsaturated double bond; (a2) at least one carboxylic acid group-containing monomer; and (a3) at least one glycidyl ester compound; wherein the molar ratio of (a2) to (a3) is substantially 1:1; (b) forming a second reaction product in the presence of the first reaction product by reacting: (b1) at least one monomer comprising an ethylenically unsaturated double bond; and (b2) at least one carboxylic acid group-containing monomer; and (c) reacting an amine compound with the second reaction product; and wherein steps (a), (b), and (c) are conducted in a substantially solvent free environment.
US08242210B2	(Per)fluoroelastomeric compositions Extrudable (per)fluoroelastomer compositions comprising crosslinkable (per)fluoroelastomers having: at least two glass transition temperatures Tg on DSC analysis, at least one melting peak on DSC analysis with a ΔH of second melting of between 0.3 and 5.5 J/g, and a bimodal molecular weight distribution such that the ratio Mn1/Mn2 is between 10 and 30, wherein Mn1 represents the number-average molecular weight of the distribution of the high molecular weight fluoroelastomer and Mn2 represents the number-average molecular weight of the distribution of the low molecular weight fluoroelastomer.
US08242208B2	Fluorine-containing polymer composition and cured body The invention provides a fluoropolymer composition capable of improving the characteristics of the cured material obtained therefrom. A fluoropolymer composition comprising a methylene group-containing fluoropolymer (A) and a hydrosilylation catalyst (B), wherein the methylene group-containing fluoropolymer (A) has methylene group-containing repeating units in the main chain thereof and is capable of hydrosilylation in the presence of the hydrosilylation catalyst (B) and one terminus of the chain is a carbon-carbon double bond or an Si—H group and the other terminus of the chain is an Si—H group or a carbon-carbon double bond.
US08242203B2	Covalently attached nile blue derivatives for optical sensors A composition comprising a pH indicator, a polymerizable group, and a spacer therebetween. The polymerizable group can be acrylate or methacrylate and the spacer can be an oxyalkayl group, an oxypropyl group, or an oxybenzoyl group. The composition can be polymerized to copolymers to form indicating polymers and optodes.
US08242201B2	Pigment dispersion, recording ink, ink cartridge, ink-jet recording method and ink-jet recording apparatus A pigment dispersion is provided that includes a pigment, a pigment dispersant, a polymer dispersion stabilizer and water, wherein the polymer dispersion stabilizer is an alpha-olefin/maleic anhydride copolymer expressed by the formula (1) below. A recording ink is also provided that includes the pigment dispersion, a surfactant, a water-dispersible resin, a humectant and water. In the structural formula (1), R represents an alkyl group and n is an integer of 30 to 100.
US08242198B2	Polyolefin adhesive compositions An adhesive and method for hot melt application. The adhesive comprises polyolefin base polymer, from 1 to 10 wt % of at least one functionalized polyolefin, and from 1 to 15 wt % of a wax, based on the total weight of the polyolefin base polymer, functionalized polyolefin and wax, wherein the wax has a weight average molecular weight at least 8% of the weight average molecular weight of the polyolefin base polymer, viscosity at 190° C. of 60 mPa·s or more, and a crystallization temperature greater than the polyolefin base polymer and greater than 100° C., and wherein the adhesive has at least 5% fiber tear at 2° C., at least 50% fiber tear at 25° C., and a characteristic set time of less than 3 seconds.
US08242197B2	Blend of aromatic polycarbonate and polylactic acid, the method for preparing the same and the use thereof The present disclosure pertains to a blend of aromatic polycarbonate and polylactic acid, the method for preparing the same and the use thereof. In the present invention a transesterification catalyst is added during the preparing process with regard to the blend of aromatic polycarbonate and polylactic acid to improve the compatibility of the components in the blend. The blend of aromatic polycarbonate and polylactic acid is provided with the good mechanical properties, thermal processibility and flame retardance properties, and can be widely applied to mechanical product or parts, electronic equipments and/or parts, construction material and/or commodities.
US08242196B2	Puncture sealant The present invention provides a tire puncture sealant which has a reduced viscosity at low temperatures and better injectability at low temperatures while exerting excellent initial sealing performance and storage stability. The present invention also provides a tire puncture sealant which further has better injectability at high temperatures while exerting the seal retention performance. The present invention relates to a tire puncture sealant including: a natural rubber latex; a tackifier; and propylene glycol, wherein the amount of the propylene glycol in 100% by mass of a liquid portion of the puncture sealant is 55% by mass or more, and also relates to a tire puncture sealant including: a natural rubber latex; a tackifier; propylene glycol; and a nonionic surfactant, wherein the nonionic surfactant is a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether and/or a polyoxyalkylene alkenyl ether.
US08242195B2	Golf ball The invention provides a golf ball having a core formed by vulcanizing a rubber composition and a cover composed primarily of a polyurethane material. The rubber composition of the core includes 100 parts by weight of a base rubber, from 10 to 40 parts by weight of an unsaturated carboxylic acid or a metal salt thereof, a peroxyketal (a) and a monophenol-type antioxidant (b), the weight ratio (a)/(b) of the peroxyketal to the monophenol-type antioxidant being from 5 to 50. The ball has an excellent discoloration resistance and an outstanding distance and feel on shots taken with a middle iron.
US08242193B2	Rubber mixtures Rubber mixtures containing at least one rubber and an organosilicon compound of the general formula (I) (Q-)kG-Si(—O—CX1X2—CX1X3—)3N. The rubber mixture is prepared by mixing at least one rubber and an organosilicon compound of the formula (I). The rubber mixtures can be used for the production of moldings.
US08242190B2	Crayon and process for producing the same The invention provides a process for producing a crayon having a desired hardness stably without poor gelation using a benzylidene sorbitol gelling agent together with the use of carbon black as a black pigment.The process comprises: dissolving and dispersing a resin component, carbon black having a pH of less than 5.0 and an organic amine in an organic solvent, dissolving at least one gelling agent selected from the group consisting of dibenzylidene sorbitol, tribenzylidene sorbitol and derivatives thereof in the resultant under heating to prepare a raw material solution, pouring the raw material solution into a molding container, and cooling and gelling the raw material solution.
US08242182B2	Porous bodies and method of production thereof The invention provides a method for preparing water dispersible or water soluble porous bodies and the bodies themselves The bodies have an intrusion volume as measured by mercury porosimetry of at least about 3 ml/g and comprise a three dimensional open-cell lattice containing less than 10% by weight of a water soluble polymeric material and 5 to 90% by weight of a surfactant, with the proviso that said porous bodies are not spherical beads having an average bead diameter of 0.2 to 5 mm. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing an intimate mixture of the polymeric material and the surfactant in a liquid medium b) providing a fluid freezing medium at a temperature effective for rapidly freezing the liquid medium; c) cooling the liquid medium with the fluid freezing medium at a temperature below the freezing point of the liquid medium for a period effective to rapidly freeze the liquid medium; and d) freeze-drying the frozen liquid medium to form the porous bodies by removal of the liquid medium by sublimation.
US08242181B2	Aluminum oxide dispersion and method of preparing same An aluminum oxide dispersion comprising from 30 to 99.9% (w/w) of a solvent; and from 0.1 to 70% (w/w) of aluminum oxide nanofibers suspended in the solvent, wherein the nanofibers comprise from 0 to 99.99% (w/w) of γ-AlO(OH) and from 0.01 to 100% (w/w) of γ-Al2O3; and a method of preparing the aluminum oxide dispersion.
US08242180B2	Use of high satiety, low calorie solid food product in controlling body weight Low sugar solid food product such as a cracker, chip, shelf-stable bread or crouton, that promotes satiety primarily as a result of its high fiber and protein content. The fiber plus protein content, expressed in grams, times n=kcal per portion, where n is from 5 to 10 gives a result from 1 to 3.
US08242178B2	Use of cannabidiol in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis Methods of treating autoimmune hepatitis are provided. The methods include injecting cannabidiol into the subject, where the cannabidiol is synthetic cannabidiol or natural cannabidiol isolated from other natural cannabinoids.
US08242177B2	Derivatives of 4-(2-amino-1-hydroxyethyl)phenol as agonists of the β2 adrenergic receptor The present disclosure relates to 4-(2-amino-1-hydroxyethyl)phenol derivatives of formula (I) as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising them, and their use in therapy as agonists of the BETA2 adrenergic receptor.
US08242176B2	Biocidal aldehyde composition for oil and gas extraction A novel combination of a biocide (Glutaraldehyde or OPA), a surfactant, alcohol, and functional excipients for the oil and gas recovery industry. The surfactant is preferably a dual chain quaternary ammonium compound consisting of a mixture of alkyl dimethy-benzylammonium chlorides and alkyl dimethylethylbenzylammonium, that absorbs onto a surface and alters the free energy of that surface. The alcohol is preferably isopropyl alcohol. The functional excipients for the oil and gas recovery industry are a cellulose type proppant, a poloxamer wetting agent, a friction-reducing pluronic block copolymer, a drag reducing agent such as polethylene oxide, and a flocculating agent. The biocide may be OPA of the dialdehyde C6H4(CHO)2 form, or Glutaraldehyde of formula C5H8O2. Both will produce an inherent bacteriostatic effect and lower surface tension and thus aids in the spread of the dual quat on the biofilm covered surface where it is readily absorbed by the negative surfaces of proteins and bacteria. It thus serves as a binding agent between the dual quat and the application surface. This multi purpose component helps create the unique aspect of the formulation. The foregoing constituents are combined in preferred concentrations within acceptable ranges to provide a synergistic formulation that combines biocidal molecules in a biological chemical system that actively transports itself into the cells, through biofilm and cell wall/membranes, thereby overcoming penetration restraints to improve kill and kill time, without the need for activation or any time or temperature control. This is an effective example of synergistic complementarity.
US08242173B2	4-((phenoxyalkyl)thio)-phenoxyacetic acids and analogs The invention features 4-((phenoxyalkyl)thio)-phenoxyacetic acids and analogs, compositions containing them, and methods of using them as PPAR modulators to treat or inhibit the progression of, for example, dyslipidemia.
US08242171B2	Method for reducing the weight of a subject or inhibiting weight gain in a subject Provided herein are methods and compositions for modulating the activity or level of a sirtuin, thereby treating or preventing obesity or an insulin resistance disorder, such as diabetes in a subject. Exemplary methods comprise contacting a cell with a sirtuin activating compound or an inhibitory compound to thereby increase or decrease fat accumulation, respectively.
US08242169B2	Emulsion composition An emulsion composition of the present invention includes (A) a salt of a higher fatty acid ester of ascorbic acid-2-phosphoric acid ester, (B) a polyglycerin fatty acid monoester including polyglycerin having a mean polymerization degree of 8 to 12 and an unsaturated fatty acid residual group of 14 to 22 carbon atoms, (C) a polyglycerin fatty acid monoester comprising polyglycerin having a mean polymerization degree of 2 to 6 and an unsaturated fatty acid residual group of 14 to 22 carbon atoms, and (D) a hydrocarbon oil, wherein the blending ratio by mass between the component (B) and the component (C) is in the range of 1:1 to 3:1, and the blending ratio by mass between the total of the components (B) and (C) and the component (D) is in the range of 10:1 to 1:4. By the use of the emulsion composition of the present invention, a skin external preparation can be provided which is prevented from decrease of a salt of a higher fatty acid ester of ascorbic acid-2-phosphoric acid ester attributable to decomposition of the salt, is excellent in retention of moisture, and has a beautiful appearance.
US08242167B2	Mannose derivatives for killing tumor cells A method for treating cancer by killing selected tumor cells such as human breast, non-small cell lung cancer cells, pancreatic cancer cells, osteosarcoma cancer cells, and glioblastoma cells, includes administering to a patient in need of treatment, an effective amount of at least one mannose analog such as 2-DG or 2-FM or 2-CM. The killing is believed to be due to an interference with glycosylation. A theranostic method includes determining whether a patient. cancer tumor sample comprises cells sensitive to killing to at least one mannose analog due to an interference with glycosylation.
US08242165B2	Mucoadhesive nanoparticles for cancer treatment The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition which includes nanoparticles. The nanoparticles include a glyceryl monooleate or monolinoleate (or other mono fatty acid ester); a chitosan; and a cancer therapeutic agent, such as gemcitabine, taxanes, and hydrophobic cancer therapeutic agents). Also disclosed are methods for preparing such nanoparticles and pharmaceutical compositions, as well as methods for treating breast, pancreatic, colon, prostate, and other cancers by parenterally, intravenously, or otherwise administering such nanoparticles and pharmaceutical compositions.
US08242164B2	3-(phenoxyphenylmethyl)pyrrolidine compounds In one aspect, the invention relates to compounds of formula I: where a and R1-6 are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The compounds of formula I are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. In another aspect, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and process and intermediates for preparing such compounds.
US08242160B2	Inhibitors of ubiquitin E1 The present invention features pyrazolidinyl compounds, pharmaceutical compositions of substituted pyrazolidinyl compounds and methods of treating a patient suffering from cancer or viral infection, the method comprising administering to a patient one or more pyrazolidinyl compounds of the invention.
US08242159B2	1,3-dihydro-5-isobenzofurancarbonitrile derivatives and pharmaceutical composition thereof for the treatment of premature ejaculation Disclosed herein are novel 1,3-dihydro-5-isobenzofurancarbonitrile derivatives represented by Formula 1, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Also disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition for treating or preventing premature ejaculation including the compound. The 1,3-dihydro-5-isobenzofurancarbonitrile derivatives have a short half-life and inhibit the ejaculation process by selectively inhibiting serotonin reuptake via a serotonin reuptake transporter present in a presynaptic neuron. Thus, the compounds are useful in the treatment and prevention of premature ejaculation.
US08242158B1	Dexmedetomidine premix formulation The presently disclosed subject matter relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising dexmedetomidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof wherein the composition is formulated as a liquid for parenteral administration to a subject, and wherein the composition is disposed within a sealed container as a premixture. The pharmaceutical compositions can be used, for example, in perioperative care of a patient or for sedation.
US08242152B2	Use of 4-[(4-thiazolyl)phenoxy]alkoxy-benzamidine derivatives for the prophylaxis and treatment of osteoporosis This invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition containing 4-[(4-thiazolyl)phenoxyl]alkoxy-benzamidine derivatives expressed by the following formula 1 for the prophylaxis and treatment of osteoporosis and more particularly, to the use of 4-{5-[4-(5-isoproply-2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)phenoxyl]pentoxy}-benzamidine or N-hydroxy-4-{5-[4-(5-isopropyl-2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)phenoxyl]pentoxy}-benzamidine expressed by the following formula 1 as a pharmaceutical composition for the prophylaxis and treatment of osteoporosis.
US08242151B2	Tricyclic compounds The present invention provides a PPAR γ agonist comprising, as an active ingredient, a tricyclic compound represented by the formula (I) (wherein R1 represents lower alkyl optionally having substituent(s) or the like, R2 and R3 are the same or different and each represents lower alkyl optionally having substituent(s) or the like, R4 and R5 are the same or different and each represents a hydrogen atom or the like, Q1-Q2-Q3 represents CH═CH—CH═CH or the like, Y represents a single bond or the like, Z1-Z2 represents C═CR13 (wherein R13 represents a hydrogen atom or the like), or the like, and A represents —COOH or the like), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and the like.
US08242150B2	Triazole derivatives for treating alzheimer'S disease and related conditions Compounds of formula I: Selectively attenuate production of Aβ(1-42) and hence find use in treatment or prevention of diseases associated with deposition of Aβ in the brain, in particular Alzheimer's disease.
US08242148B2	Treatment methods employing histamine H3 receptor antagonists, including betahistine Methods of treating depression, binge eating disorder, narcolepsy, excessive daytime sleepiness, substance use disorders, and Prader Willi syndrome, disorders characterized at least in part by hypocortisolemia and decreased activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and disorders related to disturbances in circadian rhythm, comprising the step of administering an effective amount of a histamine type 3 (H3) receptor antagonist, such as betahistine or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts, or its metabolites to an individual.
US08242146B2	Combination of a NSAID and a PDE-4 inhibitor The invention relates to the combined use of a PDE4 inhibitor and a conventional NSAID in the treatment of an inflammatory disease and/or an inflammation-associated disorder while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects, such as gastric erosions and ulcer, which are frequently associated with the use of conventional NSAIDs. A preferred PDE 4 inhibitor for this combination is roflumilast or a derivative thereof. A preferred conventional NSAID for this combination is diclofenac or a derivative thereof.
US08242141B2	Compositions and methods for treating seizure disorders Disclosed are methods of treating a seizure disorder by administering to a patient in need of such treatment a compound having the following formula:
US08242138B2	Amidine-containing compounds useful as muscarinic receptor antagonists The invention relates to compounds of formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, where R1-3, R5, R7, a, b, Q, X, X′, X″, Y, Z, and Ar are as defined in the specification. These compounds are muscarinic receptor antagonists. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, processes for preparing such compounds and methods of using such compounds to, for example, treat pulmonary disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
US08242134B2	Isoquinolinone derivatives as NK3 antagonists The invention relates to compounds useful in therapy, in particular in the treatment of psychosis, to compositions comprising said compounds, and to methods of treating diseases comprising the administration of said compounds.
US08242130B2	Flavanoids and isoflavanoids for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases The present disclosure provides non-naturally occurring polyphenol compounds that upregulate the expression of Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I). The disclosed compositions and methods can be used for treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease and related disease states, including cholesterol or lipid related disorders, such as, e.g., atherosclerosis.
US08242112B2	Heterocyclic aspartyl protease inhibitors Disclosed are compounds of the formula I or a stereoisomer, tautomer, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, wherein W is a bond, —C(═S)—, —S(O)—, —S(O)2—, —C(═O)—, —O—, —C(R6)(R7)—, —N(R5)— or —C(═N(R5))—; X is —O—, —N(R5)— or —C(R6)(R7)—; provided that when X is —O—, U is not —O—, —S(O)—, —S(O)2—, —C(═O)— or —C(═NR5)—; U is a bond, —S(O)—, —S(O)2—, —C(O)—, —O—, —P(O)(OR15)—, —C(═NR5)—, —(C(R6)(R7))b— or —N(R5)—; wherein b is 1 or 2; provided that when W is —S(O)—, —S(O)2—, —O—, or —N(R5)—, U is not —S(O)—, —S(O)2—, —O—, or —N(R5)—; provided that when X is —N(R5)— and W is —S(O)—, —S(O)2—, —O—, or —N(R5)—, then U is not a bond; and R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, and R7 are as defined in the specification; and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds of formula I. Also disclosed is the method of inhibiting aspartyl protease, and in particular, the methods of treating cardiovascular diseases, cognitive and neurodegenerative diseases, and the methods of inhibiting of Human Immunodeficiency Virus, plasmepins, cathepsin D and protozoal enzymes.Also disclosed are methods of treating cognitive or neurodegenerative diseases using the compounds of formula I in combination with a cholinesterase inhibitor or a muscarinic m1 agonist or m2 antagonist.
US08242111B2	Cyclic inhibitors of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 This invention relates to novel compounds of a structural formula selected from: pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and pharmaceutical compositions thereof, which are useful for the therapeutic treatment of diseases associated with the modulation or inhibition of 11β-HSD1 in mammals, e.g., diabetes mellitus and obesity. Values for the variables in the structural formulas are provided herein. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions of the novel compounds and methods for their use in the reduction or control of the production of cortisol in a cell or the inhibition of the conversion of cortisone to cortisol in a cell.
US08242110B2	Use of antihistamine agents for the preventive or early treatment of inflammatory syndromes, in particular those triggered by togaviruses The present invention relates to the use of at least one antihistamine agent for the preparation of a medicament for use in the preventive or early treatment of inflammatory syndromes of viral origin, in particular arthritis of the distal joints, more particularly those triggered by togaviruses. The invention also relates to a combination product of at least one antihistamine agent and of at least one antiserotonin agent for its simultaneous, separate or sequential use in preventive or early therapy for inflammatory syndromes of viral origin, in particular arthritis of the distal joints, more particularly those triggered by togaviruses.
US08242108B2	Cell migration modulating compounds The described invention relates to compounds which modulate cell migration, and find use in, for example, wound healing, cancer progression and angiogenesis.
US08242100B2	Compositions and methods for inducing bone growth and inhibiting bone loss Compositions useful for inducing bone growth or inhibiting bone loss in an animal comprising one or more isoflavones or isoflavone metabolites and methods for inducing bone growth or inhibiting bone loss in an animal utilizing such compositions. The compositions and methods are particularly useful for post-menopause, post-andropause, gonadectomized, spayed, or neutered animals.
US08242098B2	Methods of treating hormone-related conditions using thio-oxindole derivatives The present invention provides methods of inducing contraception which includes delivering to a female a composition containing a compound of formula I, or tautomers thereof, in a regimen which involves delivering one or more of a selective estrogen receptor modulator, wherein formula I is: and wherein R1-R5 and Q1 are defined as described herein. Methods of providing hormone replacement therapy and for treating carcinomas, dysfunctional bleeding, uterine leiomyomata, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome is provided which includes delivering a compound of formula I and a selective estrogen receptor modulator are also described.
US08242096B2	Compositions comprising pectin and ascorbic acid Ascorbic acid compositions in the form of a powder and/or granules contain as principle components L-ascorbic acid and/or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a high molecular (300 kDalton or higher) pectin. The compositions are compressible into tablets with improved mechanical strength and hardness.
US08242090B2	Vascular therapeutics The present invention provides a method of preventing or reducing restenosis, neointima formation, graft failure, atherosclerosis, angiogenesis and/or solid tumor growth in a subject The method comprises administering to the subject a prophylactically effective dose of a nucleic acid which decreases the level of c-Jun mRNA, c-Jun mRNA translation or nuclear accumulation or activity of c-Jun. It is preferred that the nucleic acid is a DNAzyme that targets c-Jun mRNA.
US08242089B2	Sphingolipids polyalkylamine conjugates for use in transfection The present invention concerns the use of a sphingoid-polyalkylamine conjugate comprising a sphingoid backbone carrying, via a carbamoyl bond, at least one polyalkylamine chains as a capturing agent of nucleic acid molecules. The present invention also provides the use of the sphingoid polyalkylamine conjugate for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition for the delivery of a nucleic acid molecule into a target cell. In a further aspect the invention provides a method for transfecting a nucleic acid into a target cell, the method comprises contacting said target cell with the sphingoid-polyalkylamine conjugate associated with a nucleic acid molecule, thereby transfecting said target cell with said nucleic acid molecule. Other aspects of the invention concern pharmaceutical compositions comprising said conjugate, therapeutic methods as well as kits, making use of the said conjugate. A preferred conjugate according to the invention is N-palmitoyl D-erythrosphingosyl-1-carbamoyl spermine.
US08242088B2	Carrier vectors through an epithelium with tight junctions The invention concerns peptide vectors, comprising a transduction domain, and a nuclear export sequence, for carrying a molecule of interest through an epithelium with tight junctions, such as the blood-brain barrier.
US08242087B2	Phosphate modified nucleosides useful as substrates for polymerases and as antiviral agents This invention relates to novel phosphate-modified nucleosides, and methods for producing them, being useful for the prevention or treatment of a viral infection in a mammal, and for preparing oligonucleotides by DNA/RNA polymerase-dependent amplification, e.g. PCR.
US08242084B2	Dimerized peptide The present invention provides a novel tumor antigen peptide and its cancer vaccine, specifically, a peptide dimer wherein two peptide monomers consisting of 7-30 amino acids including at least one cysteine residue and being capable of producing a tumor antigen peptide are bound each other through a disulfide bond.
US08242082B2	Antibacterial peptide The present invention provides a novel peptide based on CAP11 as well as provides an antibacterial agent, an LPS-cell-binding inhibitor, and a drug such as a bacterial-infection-treating agent or an endotoxin-shock suppressant, each containing the peptide as an active ingredient. The peptide has the following amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 1): X01 X02 X03 X03 X04 X02 X03 X03 X05 X04 X03 X04 X02 X01 X03 X02 X05 X03 (wherein X01 represents a cationic amino acid residue or a polar uncharged amino acid residue, X02 represents a non-polar amino acid residue, X03 represents a cationic amino acid residue, X04 represents a non-polar amino acid residue or a cationic amino acid residue, and X05 represents a non-polar amino acid residue or a polar uncharged amino acid residue). Each of the antibacterial agent, lipopolysaccharide-cell-binding inhibitor, and drug (e.g., bacterial-infection-treating agent or endotoxin-shock suppressant) contains the peptide as an active ingredient. The present invention also provides for a peptide comprised of a sequence of cationic and non-polar or polar uncharged amino acids forming an α-helix wherein the amino acids are arranged along the α-helix such that when represented as a helical wheel, there is a substantial bi-lateral symmetry between cationic versus non-polar or polar uncharged amino acids.
US08242080B2	Inhibitors of the EGFR kinase targeting the asymmetric activating dimer interface The invention provides methods and compositions for the modulation of EGFR activity. In particular, inhibition of EGFR activation through an allosteric mechanism is discloses, as is a method for targeted drug discovery and design based on models of the three dimensional structure of the kinase domains of the protein dimers.
US08242076B2	Polypeptides, matrices, hydrogels and methods of using same for tissue regeneration and repair A novel laminin polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence set forth by SEQ ID NO:3 is disclosed. Also disclosed are compositions-of-matter comprising a polysaccharide (e.g., hyaluronic acid) and the novel laminin polypeptide; or hyaluronic acid, a laminin polypeptide and an antioxidant (e.g., superoxide dismutase), as well as matrices and hydrogels comprising same which can be used for ex vivo or in vivo tissue formation and for treatment of pathologies characterized by diseased, damaged or loss of tissue.
US08242074B2	Modulation of the amount or function of pathogenic CD14+CD16+ monocytes The invention is based on the discovery that interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1alpha) is expressed on the proinflammatory CD14+CD16+ monocyte subset. Importantly, since IL-1alpha appears to be almost exclusively expressed on this monocyte subset and not other leukocytes, it represents an ideal marker for targeting the CD14+CD16+ monocyte subset. The effectiveness of an agent that depletes such pathogenic cells or modulates IL-1alpha function on such cells type can be monitored by assessing CD14+CD16+ monocyte levels or functionality.
US08242070B2	Method for producing anionic surfactant Disclosed is the method for producing an anionic surfactant powder, including removing impurities by introducing gas into a crude anionic surfactant containing water in a content of 0.01 to 5% by weight in a granulator or drier, having an agitating blade. Also disclosed is the method for producing an anionic surfactant powder, including introducing a gas along with the surface of an inner wall of a granulator or drier having an agitating blade at a reduced pressure to produce the anionic surfactant powder.
US08242066B2	Aniline compounds as ashless TBN sources and lubricating oil compositions containing same Aniline compounds useful as ashless TBN sources for lubricating oil compositions that are compatible with fluoroelastomeric engine seal materials, and lubricating oil compositions containing such aniline compounds.
US08242064B2	Sliding member [Task] The solid-lubricant layer applied on the surface of Al or Cu-based bearing alloy is improved so as to satisfactorily demonstrate the properties of the solid lubricant.[Means for Solution] The solid lubricant dispersed in the solid-lubricant solid-lubricant layer exhibits 85% or more of the relative C axis intensity ratio defined below.The relative C axis intensity ratio=the accumulative intensity of (002), (004) and (008) planes relative to the accumulative intensity of (002), (004), (100), (101), (102), (103), (105), (110) and (008) planes detected by X ray diffraction.
US08242063B2	Lubricating grease composition A lubricating grease composition comprising base oil and a blended thickener which comprises, as the thickener constituents, (a) one or more urea-type compounds; (b) one or more fatty acid metal salts; and (c) at least one type of amide compound selected from the group comprised of aliphatic amides and aliphatic bisamides shown by the general formulae (1) and (2): R1CONH2 (1) R1CONHR2NHCOR1 (2) wherein R1 denotes a saturated or unsaturated alkyl group having from 15 to 17 carbon atoms and R2 denotes a methylene group or an ethylene group and wherein the blending weight proportions of (a), (b) and (c) are in the ratio of a/(b+c) is in the range of from 0.20 to 10 wherein (1) constituent (a) has a blending weight ratio in the range of from 1 to 10; (2) constituent (b) has a blending weight ratio in the range of from 0.5 to 2.5; and (3) constituent (c) has a blending weight ratio in the range of from 0.5 to 2.5.
US08242058B2	Reagents and methods for appending functional groups to proteins Methods and reagents for site-selective functionalization of peptides and proteins. The methods most generally involve the reaction of a thioester with hydrazine. Reagents include bifunctional reagents of formula: H2N—NH—CH2-M-L-FG and salts thereof where M is a single bond or a chemical group carrying a non-bonding electron pair, such as —C(O)NR′—, where R′ is H, or an alkyl or aryl group; L is an optional linker group as described above; and FG is a functional group having reactivity that is orthongonal to that of the hydrazine group. FG can, among others, be an azide, alkenyl, alkynyl, nitrile (—CN) or triazole group and is preferably an azide group (—N3). Methods and reagents can, for example, be combined with intein-mediated protein splicing to link proteins or fragments thereof to various chemical species or to a surface. Surface immobilization of proteins via the methods herein results in immobilized proteins which substantially retain biological activity and is thus useful for the generation of peptide or protein microarrays. Kits for functionalization and/or immobilization of peptides and proteins are provided as well as microarrays of peptides, proteins or both.
US08242053B2	Biological fertilizer, method for obtaining same and use thereof as a plant growth stimulator A biological fertilizer and plant growth stimulator including: a. a pure culture of strain C3 of the Pantoea dispersa species deposited in the Spanish Type Culture Collection (CECT) with CECT number 5801, b. a pure culture of strain M3 of the Azospirillum brasilense species deposited in the CECT with CECT number 5802, both immobilized in a solid support acting as a slow release system, and c. indole-3-acetic acid, and a method for preparing the biological fertilizer and the use thereof as a plant growth stimulator.
US08242049B2	Low temperature ammonia remediation catalysts A catalytic material which includes a metal oxide catalyst anchored to a nano-sized metal oxide crystal as support and functions well at low temperatures. The catalytic material may optionally include another metal oxide as a promoter deposited on the surface of the support to modify the properties of the metal oxide catalyst and/or the properties of the support. The catalyst may be vanadium oxide, tungsten oxide, manganese oxide, chromium oxide or molybdenum oxide; the support may be TiO2, SiO2, Al2O3, ZrO2, or WO3; and the promoter may be vanadium oxide, tungsten oxide, manganese oxide, chromium oxide or molybdenum oxide. The present invention also provides a method of producing the catalytic materials, which is useful in removing ammonia and other nitrogen containing contaminants.
US08242048B2	Oxidation catalyst and its preparation Process for the selective oxidation of ethane to ethylene and/or acetic acid, and/or the selective oxidation of ethylene to acetic acid, by contacting ethane and/or ethylene with a molecular oxygen-containing gas at elevated temperature in the presence of a spray-dried supported catalyst composition. The supported catalyst composition includes molybdenum, vanadium and niobium metal components, supported on a support comprising alpha-alumina. The supported catalyst is prepared by forming a slurry of the metal components and alpha-alumina support particles or an alpha-alumina support precursor, and spray-drying the slurry.
US08242046B2	Inorganic oxide, exhaust gas purifying catalyst carrier, and exhaust gas purifying catalyst A particulate inorganic oxide containing aluminum oxide, a metal oxide forming no composite oxide with aluminum oxide, and an additional element including at least one of a rare-earth element and an alkali earth element, the inorganic oxide containing a secondary particle formed by aggregating primary particles; wherein at least a part of the secondary particle includes a plurality of first primary particles, each having a particle size of 100 nm or less, containing aluminum oxide and the additional element, and a plurality of second primary particles, each having a particle size of 100 nm or less, containing the metal oxide and the additional element; wherein at least a part of the first and second primary particles has a surface concentrated region where the additional element has a locally increased content in a surface layer part thereof.
US08242044B2	Process and catalyst Aromatic or heteroaromatic nitro compounds are catalytically hydrogenated to the corresponding amines in the presence of a platinum catalyst comprising elemental platinum on a support; the platinum catalyst is modified with a molybdenum compound and a phosphorus compound wherein the phosphorus has an oxidation state of less than +5, e.g. hypophosphorous acid; the catalyst is particularly useful in the hydrogenation of nitro compounds with halogen and/or sulfur-containing substituents.
US08242040B2	Process for the removal of corrosion metals from carbonylation catalyst solutions A process for the removal of corrosion metal contaminants from a carbonylation catalyst solution comprising an iridium and/or rhodium carbonylation catalyst, an alkali and/or alkaline earth metal and corrosion metal contaminants in which the catalyst solution is contacted with a cation exchange resin having its active sites partially loaded with a sufficient amount of alkali and/or alkaline earth metal to maintain the concentration of said alkali and/or alkaline earth metal in the catalyst solution and recovering a catalyst solution of reduced corrosion metal contaminant content.
US08242034B2	Phase change memory devices and methods for fabricating the same Phase change memory devices and methods for manufacturing the same are provided. An exemplary embodiment of a phase change memory device includes a bottom electrode formed over a substrate. A first dielectric layer is formed over the bottom electrode. A heating electrode is formed in the first dielectric layer and partially protrudes over the first dielectric layer, wherein the heating electrode includes an intrinsic portion embedded within the first dielectric layer, a reduced portion stacked over the intrinsic portion, and an oxide spacer surrounding a sidewall of the reduced portion. A phase change material layer is formed over the first dielectric layer and covers the heating electrode, the phase change material layer contacts a top surface of the reduced portion of the heating electrode. A top electrode is formed over the phase change material layer and contacts the phase change material layer.
US08242033B2	High throughput recrystallization of semiconducting materials Methods for making and/or treating articles of semiconducting material are disclosed. In various methods, a first article of semiconducting material is provided, the first article of semiconducting material is heated sufficiently to melt the semiconducting material, and the melted semiconducting material is solidified in a direction substantially parallel to a shortest dimension of the melted article of semiconducting material. Articles of semiconducting materials made by methods described herein are also disclosed.
US08242024B2	Method of forming metal interconnection on thick polyimide film Many current micromachining devices are integrated with materials such as very thick layer of polyimide (10 to 100 um) to offer essential characteristics and properties for various applications; it is inherently difficult and complicated to provide reliable metal interconnections between different levels of the circuits. The present invention is generally related to a novel micromachining process and structure to form metal interconnections in integrated circuits or micromachining devices which are incorporated with thick polyimide films. More particularly, the embodiments of the current invention relates to formation of multi-step staircase structure with tapered angle on polyimide layer, which is therefore capable of offering superb and reliable step coverage for metallization among different levels of integrated circuits, and especially for very thick polyimide layer applications.
US08242021B2	Method for manufacturing semiconductor device A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a hard mask pattern and a spacer at both sides of the hard mask pattern. The method also includes forming a spacer pattern, so that the spacer remains in one direction to form a spacer pattern, forming a photoresist pattern having a pad type overlapping a side of the spacer pattern, and etching an underlying layer, with the photoresist pattern and the spacer pattern as a mask, to form an isolated pattern. The method improves resolution and process margins to obtain a highly-integrated transistor.
US08242018B2	Semiconductor device having fine contacts and method of fabricating the same A semiconductor device has a structure of contacts whose size and pitch are finer that those that can be produced under the resolution provided by conventional photolithography. The contact structure includes a semiconductor substrate, an interlayer insulating layer disposed on the substrate, annular spacers situated in the interlayer insulating layer, first contacts surrounded by the spacers, and a second contact buried in the interlayer insulating layer between each adjacent pair of the first spacers. The contact structure is formed by forming first contact holes in the interlayer insulating layer, forming the spacers over the sides of the first contact holes to leave second contact holes within the first contact holes, etching the interlayer insulating layer from between the spacers using the first spacers as an etch mask to form third contact holes, and filling the first and second contact holes with conductive material. In this way, the pitch of the contacts can be half that of the first contact holes.
US08242014B2	Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device having an interconnect structure and a reinforcing insulating film A semiconductor device is manufactured by forming a first reinforcing insulating film and a first sacrificial interlayer. A first trench is formed and then filled with an interconnect covered with a cap metal. First and second sacrificial barrier dielectrics are formed, and the second sacrificial interlayer and the sacrificial barrier dielectric are selectively removed to form a hole exposing the cap metal. A conductive via connects the interconnect by forming a conductor in the hole, and a second cap metal covers the via. The interconnect exposes the via by selectively removing the sacrificial interlayers and dielectric. An insulating film covers the side wall and the upper portion of the interconnect, and the side wall of the conductive via which is connected to the interconnect from the side wall of the interconnect through the side wall of the via. An air-gap is provided in the insulating film.
US08242013B2	Virtually substrate-less composite power semiconductor device and method A virtually substrate-less composite power semiconductor device (VSLCPSD) and method are disclosed. The VSLCPSD has a power semiconductor device (PSD), a front-face device carrier (FDC) made out of a carrier material and an intervening bonding layer (IBL). Both carrier and IBL material can be conductive or non-conductive. The PSD has back substrate portion, front semiconductor device portion with patterned front-face device metallization pads and a virtually diminishing thickness TPSD. The FDC has patterned back-face carrier metallizations contacting the front-face device metallization pads, patterned front-face carrier metallization pads and numerous parallelly connected through-carrier conductive vias respectively connecting the back-face carrier metallizations to the front-face carrier metallization pads. The FDC thickness TFDC is large enough to provide structural rigidity to the VSLCPSD. The diminishing thickness TPSD effects a low back substrate resistance and the through-carrier conductive vias effect a low front-face contact resistance to the front-face device metallization pads.
US08242010B2	Electrical interconnect forming method An electrical interconnect forming method. The electrical interconnect includes a first substrate comprising a first electrically conductive pad, a second substrate comprising a second electrically conductive pad, and an interconnect structure electrically and mechanically connecting the first electrically conductive pad to the second electrically conductive pad. The interconnect structure comprises a non-solder metallic core structure, a first solder structure, and a second solder structure. The first solder structure electrically and mechanically connects a first portion of the non-solder metallic core structure to the first electrically conductive pad. The second solder structure electrically and mechanically connects a second portion of the non-solder metallic core structure to the second electrically conductive pad.
US08242008B2	Methods of removing noble metal-containing nanoparticles, methods of forming NAND string gates, and methods of forming integrated circuitry Some embodiments include methods of removing noble metal-containing particles from over a substrate. The substrate is exposed to a composition that reduces adhesion between the noble metal-containing particles and the substrate, and simultaneously the substrate is spun to sweep at least some of the noble metal-containing particles off from the substrate. Some embodiments include methods in which tunnel dielectric material is formed across a semiconductor wafer. Metallic nanoparticles are formed across the tunnel dielectric material. A stack of two or more different materials is formed over the metallic nanoparticles. A portion of the stack is covered with a protective mask while another portion of the stack is left unprotected. The unprotected portion of the stack is removed to expose some of the metallic nanoparticles. The semiconductor wafer to is subjected to etchant suitable to undercut at least some of the exposed metallic nanoparticles, and simultaneously the semiconductor wafer is spun.
US08242001B2	Apparatus and methods for improving parallel conduction in a quantum well device Embodiments of an apparatus and methods of providing a quantum well device for improved parallel conduction are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
US08242000B2	Method for making nanowire element A method for making a nanowire element includes: providing an imprint mold including a first substrate and a conductive pattern-transferring layer, the pattern-transferring layer includes first conductive strips; electrifying the pattern-transferring layer with an alternating current; applying a nanowire-containing suspension on the pattern-transferring layer; reorienting the nanowires in the nanowire-containing suspension using a dielectrophoresis method, thereby the nanowires connected between two adjacent first conductive strips; providing a pattern-receiving body, the pattern-receiving body including a second substrate and a pattern-receiving layer; pressing the imprint mold onto the pattern-receiving body with the conductive pattern-transferring layer facing the pattern-receiving layer, thereby defining a patterned recess in the pattern-receiving layer and transferring the nanowires to the second substrate; forming a first conductive layer on the second substrate to obtain a conductive pattern layer, the conductive pattern layer including second conductive strips, the nanowires connecting two adjacent second conductive strips; and removing the pattern-receiving layer.
US08241997B2	Method of manufacturing a semiconductor device having a gate electrode formed over a silicon oxide insulating layer There is provided a method of removing trap levels and defects, which are caused by stress, from a single crystal silicon thin film formed by an SOI technique. First, a single crystal silicon film is formed by using a typical bonding SOI technique such as Smart-Cut or ELTRAN. Next, the single crystal silicon thin film is patterned to form an island-like silicon layer, and then, a thermal oxidation treatment is carried out in an oxidizing atmosphere containing a halogen element, so that an island-like silicon layer in which the trap levels and the defects are removed is obtained.
US08241993B2	Method for shallow trench isolation Methods for rounding the bottom corners of a shallow trench isolation structure are described herein. Embodiments of the present invention provide a method comprising forming a first masking layer on a sidewall of an opening in a substrate, removing, to a first depth, a first portion of the substrate at a bottom surface of the opening having the first masking layer therein, forming a second masking layer on the first masking layer in the opening, and removing, to a second depth, a second portion of the substrate at the bottom surface of the opening having the first and second masking layers therein. Other embodiments also are described.
US08241992B2	Method for air gap interconnect integration using photo-patternable low k material Methods for producing air gap-containing metal-insulator interconnect structures for VLSI and ULSI devices using a photo-patternable low k material as well as the air gap-containing interconnect structure that is formed are disclosed. More particularly, the methods described herein provide interconnect structures built in a photo-patternable low k material in which air gaps are defined by photolithography in the photo-patternable low k material. In the methods of the present invention, no etch step is required to form the air gaps. Since no etch step is required in forming the air gaps within the photo-patternable low k material, the methods disclosed in this invention provide highly reliable interconnect structures.
US08241991B2	Method for forming interconnect structure having airgap A method for forming an interconnect structure with airgaps, includes: providing a structure having a trench formed on a substrate; depositing a spacer oxide layer on sidewalls of the trench as sidewall spacers by plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition; filling the trench having the sidewall spacers with copper; removing the sidewall spacers to form an airgap structure; and encapsulating the airgap structure, wherein airgaps are formed between the filled copper and the sidewalls of the trench.
US08241981B1	Method of fabricating a deep trench (DT) metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor A method includes providing an SOI substrate including a layer of silicon disposed atop a layer of an oxide, the layer of an oxide being disposed atop the semiconductor substrate; forming a deep trench having a sidewall extending through the layer of silicon and the layer of an oxide and into the substrate; depositing a continuous spacer on the sidewall to cover the layer of silicon, the layer of an oxide and a part of the substrate; depositing a first conformal layer of a conductive material throughout the inside of the deep trench; creating a silicide within the deep trench in regions extending through the sidewall into an uncovered part of the substrate; removing the first conformal layer from the continuous spacer; removing the continuous spacer; depositing a layer of a high k dielectric material throughout the inside of the deep trench, and depositing a second conformal layer of a conductive material onto the layer of a high-k dielectric material.
US08241978B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device having integrated MOSFET and Schottky diode A semiconductor device having integrated MOSFET and Schottky diode includes a substrate having a MOSFET region and a Schottky diode region defined thereon; a plurality of first trenches formed in the MOSFET region; and a plurality of second trenches formed in the Schottky diode region. The first trenches respectively including a first insulating layer formed over the sidewalls and bottom of the first trench and a first conductive layer filling the first trench serve as a trenched gate of the trench MOSFET. The second trenches respectively include a second insulating layer formed over the sidewalls and bottom of the second trench and a second conductive layer filling the second trench. A depth and a width of the second trenches are larger than that of the first trenches; and a thickness of the second insulating layer is larger than that of the first insulating layer.
US08241974B2	Nonvolatile memory device with multiple blocking layers and method of fabricating the same A nonvolatile memory device with a blocking layer controlling the transfer of electric charges in a charge storage layer includes the blocking layer having a first blocking layer in contact with the charge storage layer and a second blocking layer over the first blocking layer, wherein the first blocking layer has a greater energy band gap than the second blocking layer and the second blocking layer has a greater permittivity than the first blocking layer.
US08241966B2	Methods of making an electronic component package and semiconductor chip packages An electronic component package having an EMI shielded space is disclosed. The package comprises a substrate having an electronic component located on its surface and a conductive enclosure having a top and downwardly extending sides enclosing the component and defining a shielded space. A vent opening is provided through the substrate and is located in the shielded space for venting the shielded space. A second vent opening may be provided in the top of the conductive enclosure.
US08241961B2	Method for manufacturing hetero-bonded wafer A method for manufacturing a hetero-bonded wafer having a large mismatch of thermal expansion coefficient comprises forming a wafer bonding means and an electrical interconnection means on at least one bonding surface of two wafers to be bonded with each other, forming grooves in the bonding surface of one wafer along dicing lines with an interval between the grooves being equal to or an even multiple of a die width, bonding the two wafers at a temperature less than 200° C., thinning a back side of the grooved wafer such that at least a portion of the grooves is exposed, and rebonding the bonded wafer pair at an elevated temperature higher than the first bonding temperature. The method for manufacturing a hetero-bonded wafer can avoid wafer level bow/warp and also reduce debonding and cracking in individual segments induced by thermal stress due to a mismatch of thermal expansion coefficient. Embodiments of the method are useful for wafer level packaging and the fabrication of hybrid devices by heterogeneous wafer bonding.
US08241959B2	Microelectronic packages fabricated at the wafer level and methods therefor A method of making microelectronic packages includes making a subassembly by providing a plate having a top surface, a bottom surface and openings extending between the top and bottom surfaces, attaching a compliant layer to the top surface of the plate, the compliant layer having openings that are aligned with the openings extending through the plate, and providing electrically conductive features on the compliant layer. After making the subassembly, the bottom surface of the plate is attached with the top surface of a semiconductor wafer so that the openings extending through the plate are aligned with contacts on the wafer. At least some of the electrically conductive features on the compliant layer are electrically interconnected with the contacts on the semiconductor wafer.
US08241952B2	Semiconductor device and method of forming IPD in fan-out level chip scale package A semiconductor wafer contains semiconductor die. A first conductive layer is formed over the die. A resistive layer is formed over the die and first conductive layer. A first insulating layer is formed over the die and resistive layer. The wafer is singulated to separate the die. The die is mounted to a temporary carrier. An encapsulant is deposited over the die and carrier. The carrier and a portion of the encapsulant and first insulating layer is removed. A second insulating layer is formed over the encapsulant and first insulating layer. A second conductive layer is formed over the first and second insulating layers. A third insulating layer is formed over the second insulating layer and second conductive layer. A third conductive layer is formed over the third insulating layer and second conductive layer. A fourth insulating layer is formed over the third insulating layer and third conductive layer.
US08241951B2	Method of manufacturing solid-state image pickup device and solid-state image pickup device A method includes preparing a cover member; preparing an image pickup element including a substrate including a pixel region including a plurality of photo detectors on a principal surface, a first concavo-convex portion including a plurality of first convex portions configured to concentrate light on the plurality of photo detectors, the first convex portions each having a lens shape, and a second concavo-convex portion surrounding the first concavo-convex portion, the second concavo-convex portion including a plurality of second convex portions; and fixing the cover member to a region of the image pickup element using a fixing member, the region being between the first concavo-convex portion and the second concavo-convex portion.
US08241949B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device An object is to provide a method for manufacturing a highly reliable semiconductor device including a transistor with stable electric characteristics. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes the steps of: forming a gate electrode over a substrate having an insulating surface; forming a gate insulating film over the gate electrode; forming an oxide semiconductor film over the gate insulating film; irradiating the oxide semiconductor film with an electromagnetic wave such as a microwave or a high frequency; forming a source electrode and a drain electrode over the oxide semiconductor film irradiated with the electromagnetic wave; and forming an oxide insulating film, which is in contact with part of the oxide semiconductor film, over the gate insulating film, the oxide semiconductor film, the source electrode, and the drain electrode.
US08241942B2	Method of fabricating a back-illuminated image sensor A method of fabricating a back-illuminated image sensor that includes the steps of providing a first substrate of a semiconductor layer, in particular a silicon layer, forming electronic device structures over the semiconductor layer and, only then, doping the semiconductor layer. By doing so, improved dopant profiles and electrical properties of photodiodes can be achieved such that the final product, namely an image sensor, has a better quality.
US08241939B2	Semiconductor nanowire sensor device and method for manufacturing the same A method for manufacturing a biosensor includes forming a silicon nanowire channel, etching a first conductivity-type single crystalline silicon layer which is a top layer of a Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) substrate to form a first conductivity-type single crystalline silicon line pattern, doping both sidewalls of the first conductivity-type single crystalline silicon line pattern with impurities of a second conductivity-type opposite to the first conductivity-type to form a second conductivity-type channel, forming second conductivity-type pads for forming electrodes at both ends of the first conductivity-type single crystalline silicon line pattern, forming, in an undoped region of the first conductivity-type single crystalline silicon line pattern, a first electrode for applying a reverse-bias voltage to insulate the first conductivity-type single crystalline silicon line pattern and the second conductivity-type channel from each other, and forming second electrodes for applying a bias voltage across the second conductivity-type channel on the second conductivity-type pad.
US08241929B2	Contactor, contact structure, probe card, and test apparatus A contactor and an associated contact structure, probe card and test apparatus are provided. The contact may include a base part having three or more steps in a stairway state, a support part with a rear end side provided at the base part and a front end side sticking out from the base part, and a conductive part formed on a surface of the support part and electrically contacting a contact of a device under test.
US08241922B2	Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy using shaped gold nanoparticles Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (4-MBA) self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold substrates is presented for SAMs onto which gold nanoparticles of various shapes have been electrostatically immobilized. SERS spectra of 4-MBA SAMs are enhanced in the presence of immobilized gold nanocrystals by a factor of 107-109 relative to 4-MBA in solution. Large enhancement factors are a likely result of plasmon coupling between the nanoparticles (localized surface plasmon) and the smooth gold substrate (surface plasmon polariton), creating large localized electromagnetic fields at their interface, where 4-MBA molecules reside in this sandwich architecture. Moreover, enhancement factors depend on nanoparticle shape, and vary by a factor of 102.
US08241921B2	Active agent eluting matrices with particulates The present invention is directed to polymeric matrices for the controlled release of a hydrophilic bioactive agent. Generally, the elution control matrix includes a polymeric matrix having a first polymer and a plurality of microparticles that include the hydrophilic bioactive agent. In one embodiment, the matrix includes a polymer comprising hydrophilic and hydrophobic portions. In another embodiment, the microparticles include a crosslinked hydrophilic polymer.
US08241919B2	Gas pulse generator for baseline drift correction and related system and method A method includes acquiring a chemical sample and modulating the chemical sample at a frequency greater than a drift frequency of a sensor. The method also includes determining at least one of a presence and a concentration of the analyte within the modulated chemical sample using the sensor. Modulating the chemical sample could include alternately absorbing at least some of the analyte into a sorbent material and releasing at least some of the analyte from the sorbent material. Modulating the chemical sample could also include heating the sorbent material, absorbing part of the analyte into the sorbent material, and passing a remaining portion of the analyte into the sensor. Modulating the chemical sample could further include stopping the heating of the sorbent material, releasing the part of the analyte from the sorbent material, and passing the sample with the released part of the analyte into the sensor.
US08241916B2	Diagnostic method for oil-filled electrical apparatus A method allowing an accurate diagnosis of a failure of an oil-filled electrical apparatus resulting from production of copper sulfide even with a small amount of an insulating oil is implemented. A diagnostic method for an oil-filled electrical apparatus for diagnosing a failure of the oil-filled electrical apparatus having a copper part disposed in an insulating oil is implemented by detecting at least one compound of bibenzyl and dibenzyl sulfide in the oil of the oil-filled electrical apparatus, to diagnose a failure of the oil-filled electrical apparatus in accordance with the detected amount of the compound. It is configured such that a failure of the oil-filled electrical apparatus resulting from production of copper sulfide can be diagnosed by detecting a specified substance, which allows an accurate diagnosis of a failure even with a small amount of the insulating oil.
US08241914B2	EPI-damage apparatus and methods for sorting particles A method and apparatus for sorting stained particles in a fluid stream, each of the method and apparatus including an epi-illumination optics system with a focusing lens. The optics system being operable to direct a beam of electromagnetic radiation through the focusing lens in a forward direction along a beam axis intersecting particles in the fluid stream at the first location so that the particles pass through the beam, resulting in the fluorescence emissions from the particles being directed along the beam axis in a rearward direction.
US08241913B2	Virtual semiconductor nanowire, and methods of using same A multiple-gate field-effect transistor includes a fluid in a top gate, two lateral gates, and a bottom gate. The multiple-gate field-effect transistor also includes a patterned depletion zone and a virtual depletion zone that has a lesser width than the patterned depletion zone. The virtual depletion zone width creates a virtual semiconductor nanowire that is lesser in width than the patterned depletion zone.
US08241911B2	Calibration card for photoluminescent oxygen sensors with zero point maintained with a metal-air battery A calibration card and method of using the card to calibrate an analytical instrument capable of reading a photoluminescent oxygen probe. The card includes at least (a) a first mass of an oxygen sensitive photoluminescent dye retained within a hermetically sealed space so as to isolate the dye from environmental oxygen, and in fluid communication with an activated metal-air battery whereby any oxygen permeating into the hermetically sealed space is quickly consumed by the battery, and (b) a second mass of an oxygen sensitive photoluminescent dye in fluid communication with the environment whereby the second mass of photoluminescent dye is exposed to an environmental concentration of oxygen.
US08241910B2	Plant raffinose saccharide biosynthetic enzymes This invention relates to an isolated nucleic acid fragment encoding a galactinol synthase. The invention also relates to the construction of a chimeric gene encoding all or a portion of the galactinol synthase, in sense or antisense orientation, wherein expression of the chimeric gene results in production of altered levels of the galactinol synthase in a transformed host cell.
US08241904B2	System and method for controlling a mammalian cell culture process A system and method for controlling a mammalian cell culture process are provided. Such control of the cell culture process involves control of the level of dissolved carbon dioxide in the cell culture media and the resulting ability to prevent increases in the osmolality level is achieved by enhanced stripping of carbon dioxide with little or no damage to the mammalian cells. The disclosed methods and systems of dissolved carbon dioxide stripping include enhanced surface gas exchange mechanisms within the bioreactor vessel through the use of an upward flow impeller combined with vertical baffles to convert swirling motions of the liquid into a largely vertical flow.
US08241902B2	Preparation of adult stem cell-derived connective tissue progenitors Methods of generating and expanding proliferative, multipotent connective tissue progenitor cells from adult stem cells are provided. Also provided are methods of generating functional tendon grafts in vitro and bone, cartilage and connective tissues in vivo using the isolated cell preparation of connective tissue progenitor cells.
US08241901B2	Method of secretory expression of lysostaphin in Escherichia coli at high level A method of secretory expression of lysostaphin in Escherichia coli at high level, which comprises constructing a expression vector by cloning a sequence encoding a signal peptide which is suitable for secretory expression in Escherichia coli before part or whole gene sequence which encodes mature lysostaphin, and ligating the cloned sequence with a promoter; and transforming Escherichia coli with the expression vector, culturing and fermenting, and then isolating lysostaphin from the supernatant of the fermentation broth. The advantage of secretory expression is that the expression product can exist in the medium in an active form, and thus does not need the process for renaturation of the inclusion body; it is more easily to purify from the supernatant of the fermentation broth with high rate of recovery; and there is less contamination from the host's proteins.
US08241895B2	Methods of algal growth in photobioreactors The present invention provides novel photobioreactors, modules thereof, and methods for use in culturing and harvesting algae and cyanobacteria.
US08241892B2	Method and apparatus for holding cells The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding cells. The apparatus comprises a mechanism for incubating cells having a dynamically controlled environment in which the cells are grown, which are maintained in a desired condition and in which cells can be examined while the environment is dynamically controlled and maintained in the desired condition. The apparatus also comprises a mechanism for determining the state of the cells. The determining mechanism is in communication with the incubating mechanism. The present invention pertains to a method for holding cells. The method comprises the steps of incubating the cells in a dynamically controlled environment which is maintained in a desired condition and in which the cells can be examined while the environment is dynamically controlled and maintained in the desired condition. Additionally, there is the step of determining the state of the cells.
US08241886B2	Formulations for preservation of rotavirus This invention provides formulations and methods for stabilizing viruses in liquid and dried formulations. In particular, formulations are provided including Zn2+ cations that stabilize the viability of Rotaviruses. Methods of vaccination include neutralization of gastric contents and administration of the vaccine formulations of the invention.
US08241876B2	Generation of triacylglycerols from gums A method is disclosed for the generation of triacylglycerols from gums that have been separated from an oil product. The gums are treated with an enzyme having PLC activity, which results in the formation of diacylglycerols and phosphates, and treated with an enzyme having PLA activity, which results in the formation of lyso-phospholipids and free fatty acids. The diacylglycerols and the free fatty acids from these two separate reactions then combine in the presence of the enzymes to generate new triacylglycerol molecules.
US08241872B2	Microorganism producing cyclic compound A microorganism which produces compounds useful as an antifungal agent, particularly a therapeutic agent for deep-seated mycoses, such as mycotic sinusitis, is provided. The present inventors have conducted intensive studies on naturally-occurring microorganisms as a research for antifungal compounds, and found a fungus Acremonium persicinum which produces cyclic compounds having a potent antifungal activity and useful as a medicament, particularly an antifungal agent, and the present invention was completed.
US08241870B2	Mammalian expression vector with a highly efficient secretory signal sequence The present invention relates to a mammalian cell based expression and secretion system and the expression and secretion of recombinant proteins by using secretory signal peptides. The present invention also relates to an expression cassette useful for the secretion of a heterologous gene from a mammalian cell, in particular a CHO cell. The present invention is also directed to a method of secreting a heterologous protein from mammalian cells such as CHO cells.
US08241863B2	Identification of an evolutionarily conserved pathway mediating transrepression of inflammatory response genes by nuclear receptors The present invention relates to a method of screening for a compound that regulate SUMOylation of the nuclear receptor proteins comprising contacting the compound of interest to the nuclear receptor protein, and detecting SUMOylation of the nuclear receptor protein, thereby screening for a compound that regulates SUMOylation.
US08241860B2	Cell free methods for detecting protein-ligand binding Provided are rapid and sensitive cell-free assay methods for detecting and/or measuring specific bimolecular or higher order interactions via reassembly of a split monomeric reporter protein, and methods of detecting or identifying modulators of such interactions by the effect on the signal provided by the reassembled split reporter protein. This methodology is adaptable to protein-protein, protein-peptide, protein-nucleic acid, protein-methylated or nonmethylated nucleic acid and other small or large molecule ligands and binding proteins.
US08241856B2	Method for detecting rheumatoid arthritis-specific autoantibodies A method for detecting anti-filaggrin-autoantibodies specific to rheumatoid arthritis in a biological sample, by providing a filaggrin with no citrulline residues (FNC) having an arginine residue or a filaggrin peptide with no citrulline residues (PFNC) having an arginine residue. Also provided are a citrulline-containing filaggrin (FC) having the peptide sequence of the FNC where some arginine residues have been converted to citrulline residues or a citrulline-containing peptide (PFC) having the peptide sequence of the PFNC, where at least one arginine residue has been converted to a citrulline residue. The sample is contacted with the FNC or PFNC and the FC or PFC, and the resulting immune complexes are detected and quantified, with a value XNC and XC, respectively. Anti-filaggrin-autoantibodies specific to rheumatoid arthritis are determined to be present in the biological sample if the value of XC is greater than the value of XNC.
US08241847B2	Identification of protective antigenic determinants of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus and uses thereof The invention relates to a polypeptide of a protective antigenic determinant (PAD polypeptide) of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and nucleic acids encoding a PAD polypeptide. The PAD polypeptide and nucleic acids encoding a PAD polypeptide are useful in the development of antibodies directed to PAD, vaccines effective in providing protection against PRRSV infection, and diagnostic assays detecting the presence of PAD antibodies generated by a PAD-specific vaccine. The invention also discloses methods of generating antibodies to PAD, for vaccinating a pig to provide protection from PRRSV infections, a method of preparing the vaccine, a method of treating PRRSV infections in a pig, and a method of detecting antibodies to PAD of PRRSV.
US08241846B1	Hedgehog pathway modulation and uses thereof for treating, preventing and/or diagnosing cancer Methods, uses, agents and compositions useful for the diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment of invasive diseases such as cancer based on the modulation of the expression and/or activity of brother of CDON (BOC) are disclosed.
US08241845B2	Steroid 5α-reductase The invention provides an isolated, novel steroid 5α-reductase enzyme termed SRD5AIII. The protein has an estimated molecular weight of 37 kDa and is capable of converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone at a pH of about 7.0. Also provided is a method for identifying inhibitors of SRD5AIII by contacting SRD5AIII with a test compound and measuring the activity of the enzyme. A reduced activity relative to a control indicates that the test compound is an inhibitor of SRD5AIII. A method is also provided for detecting androgen stimulated prostate cancer or recurrent prostate cancer in an individual. The method comprises obtaining a prostate biopsy from an individual and determining the level of expression of SRD5AIII gene or protein relative to a normal control. An increased expression of SRD5AIII relative to the control is indicative of androgen stimulated prostate cancer or recurrent prostate cancer.
US08241840B2	Pattern forming method, resist composition to be used in the pattern forming method, negative developing solution to be used in the pattern forming method and rinsing solution for negative development to be used in the pattern forming method A pattern forming method includes (a) coating a substrate with a resist composition including a resin that includes a repeating unit represented by a following general formula (NGH-1), and, by the action of an acid, increases the polarity and decreases the solubility in a negative developing solution; (b) exposing; and (d) developing with a negative developing solution: wherein RNGH1 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group; and RNGH2 to RNGH4 each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a hydroxyl group, provided that at least one of RNGH2 to RNGH4 represents a hydroxyl group.
US08241839B2	Fabrication method of brightness enhancement film A fabrication method of a brightness enhancement film (BEF) including the following steps is provided. A light transmissive substrate is provided and has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. Then, a plurality of first rod-shaped lenses are formed on the first surface. The rod-shaped lenses extend along a first direction and are arranged along a second direction. After that, a plurality of second stripe-shaped prisms are formed on the second surface. The stripe-shaped prisms extend along the second direction and are arranged along the first direction. Next, an electromagnetic wave beam is made to pass through the rod-shaped lenses, the light transmissive substrate and the stripe-shaped prisms in sequence. A first portion of each of the stripe-shaped prisms exposes and leaves a second portion of each of the stripe-shaped prisms unexposed. Then, the second portions of the stripe-shaped prisms are removed.
US08241838B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes the following processes. A first resist layer covering an etching object is patterned to form a first resist pattern. Then, a filling layer that covers the first resist pattern and has a flat upper surface is formed. Then, a second resist layer covering the flat upper surface is patterned to from a second resist pattern.
US08241833B2	Positive resist composition and pattern-forming method using the same A positive resist composition comprising (A) resin having a monocyclic or polycyclic alicyclic hydrocarbon structure and capable of decomposing by the action of an acid to increase the solubility in an alkaline developer, (B) a compound capable of generating an acid upon treatment with one of an actinic ray and radiation and (F) a specific surfactant containing a fluorine atom in an amount of from 30 to 60 mass %, and a pattern-forming method using the same.
US08241829B2	Resist polymer, resist composition, process for pattern formation, and starting compounds for production of the resist polymer To provide a resist polymer comprising, as a structural unit, an acid-decomposable unit having a structure represented by formula (1) or (2) which exhibits a small line edge roughness and produces little defects in DUV excimer laser lithography or the like. In formulas (1) and (2), n represents an integer of 2 to 24; J represents a single bond or a divalent hydrocarbon group which may have a substituent/heteroatom when n=2, or represents an n-valent hydrocarbon group which may have a substituent/heteroatom when n≧3; E represents a residue of a polymerization terminator, a chain transfer agent or a polymerization initiator; K1 and K2 each represent at least one selected from alkylene, cycloalkylene, oxyalkylene, arylene, a divalent thiazoline ring, a divalent oxazoline ring and a divalent imidazoline ring; L1 and L2 each represent at least one selected from —C(O)O—, —C(O)— and —OC(O)—; M1, M2 and M3 each represent at least one selected from alkylene, cycloalkylene, oxyalkylene and arylene; Y, Y1 and Y2 each represent an acid-decomposable linkage; k1, k2, l1, l2, m1, m2, m3 and n1 each represent 0 or 1; and R1 represents H or a methyl group.
US08241827B2	Electrostatic image developing toner An electrostatic image developing toner which is capable of obtaining highly chromatic full-color images of bright color without causing perceived color contamination and exhibits superior lightfastness is disclosed, wherein the toner comprises a binding resin and a colorant, and the colorant is tetraazaporphyrin or phthalocyanine compounds such as a compound represented by the following formula:
US08241825B2	Flexible imaging member belts Embodiments pertain to a flexible imaging member used in electrostatography and processes for making and using the imaging member. More particularly, the embodiments pertain to a structurally simplified flexible electrophotographic imaging member that has reasonable flatness and exhibits good performance without the need of an anticurl back coating layer.
US08241824B2	Electrophotographic photoreceptor, image forming method, image forming apparatus and process cartridge An electrophotographic photoreceptor comprising an electrically conductive support having thereon a photo sensitive layer having a laminated structure comprising a charge generation layer and a charge transport layer, wherein the charge generation layer comprises a titanyl phthalocyanine pigment having a crystal structure exhibiting the following peaks of Bragg angles 2θ (±0.2°) of X-ray powder diffraction employing a characteristic X-ray of a CuKα radiation (having a wavelength of 1.542 Å): at least a largest diffraction peak at 27.2°, major diffraction peaks at 9.4°, 9.6° and 24.0°, and a diffraction peak of a lowest angle at 7.3° while exhibiting no peak between the peaks of 7.3° and 9.4° and no peak at 26.3°; and the charge transport layer comprises a compound represented by Formula (1) or (2), wherein A, B, C and D are not simultaneously a hydrogen atom:
US08241823B2	Method of fabrication of a semiconductor device having reduced pitch Provided is a photolithography apparatus including a photomask. The photomask includes a pattern having a plurality of features, in an example, dummy line features. The pattern includes a first region being in the form of a localized on-grid array and a second region where at least one of the features has an increased width. The apparatus may include a second photomask which may define an active region. The feature with an increased width may be adjacent, and outside, the defined active region.
US08241806B2	Fuel cell system A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell, a fluid passage for warming, a gas-liquid separator, a supply passage and a recirculating module. The fuel cell generates power with supply of a reaction gas. The gas-liquid separator separates moisture contained in an anode exhaust gas which is discharged from the fuel cell. The supply passage returns the anode exhaust gas, from which the moisture has been separated by the gas-liquid separator, to an inlet side of the reaction gas. The recirculating module mixes the anode exhaust gas, which is returned via the supply passage, with the reaction gas. The gas-liquid separator lies adjacent to the recirculating module, and the fluid passage for warming is disposed between the gas-liquid separator and the recirculating module.
US08241805B2	Fuel cell system with cooling and method of controlling the same A fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell that generates an electric power and heat by a reaction of a reaction gas; a heat exchanger; a coolant circuit for a coolant between the fuel cell and the heat exchanger; a coolant circulating pump for circulating the coolant in the coolant circuit; and a drive motor for driving the coolant circulating pump, the coolant receiving and carrying the heat to the heat exchanger by the coolant circuit, the coolant circulating pump, and the drive motor. A rotational speed of the drive motor is controlled according to an upper limit of the rotational speed of the drive motor which may be determined on the basis of a cooling capacity of the heat exchanger, a speed of the vehicle mounting the fuel cell system, a generated electric power, and a flow rate of the reaction gas.
US08241802B2	Fuel cell system with constantly accurate impedance measurement There is provided a fuel cell system in which a constantly accurate impedance measurement is made possible regardless of a response characteristic of the voltage converting device. A superimposed signal analysis section analyzes an impedance measuring signal after passing through a DC/DC converter to thereby notify a superimposed signal amplitude control section of an analysis result. A superimposed signal amplitude control section controls an amplitude value of the impedance measuring signal generated by a superimposed signal generating section based on the result notified from the superimposed signal analysis section.
US08241797B2	Biological fuel cell and methods A fuel cell has an anode and a cathode with anode enzyme disposed on the anode and cathode enzyme is disposed on the cathode. The anode is configured and arranged to electrooxidize an anode reductant in the presence of the anode enzyme. Likewise, the cathode is configured and arranged to electroreduce a cathode oxidant in the presence of the cathode enzyme. In addition, anode redox hydrogel may be disposed on the anode to transduce a current between the anode and the anode enzyme and cathode redox hydrogel may be disposed on the cathode to transduce a current between the cathode and the cathode enzyme.
US08241794B2	Active material for rechargeable lithium battery and rechargeable lithium battery including same The present invention relates to an active material for a rechargeable lithium battery and a rechargeable lithium battery including the same. The active material includes an active material and a fiber-shaped or tube-shaped carbon conductive material attached to the surface of the active material. The active material includes a conductive shell including a fiber-shaped or tube-shaped carbon conductive material and increases discharge capacity due to improved conductivity and improves cycle-life efficiency by maintaining paths between active material particles during charge and discharge cycles.
US08241792B2	Electrode material, method of manufacturing thereof and nonaqueous lithium secondary battery A crystal structure is provided to improve a characteristic of an electrode material, such as vanadium oxide. In the crystal structure, an amorphous state and a layered crystal state coexist at a predetermined ratio in a layered crystalline material such as vanadium oxide. In the layered crystalline material having such a layered crystal structure, layered crystal particles having a layer length L1 of 30 nm or shorter are formed. Ions are easily intercalated to and deintercalated from between the layers. When such a material is used for the positive electrode active material, a nonaqueous lithium secondary battery of which the discharge capacity and the cycle characteristic are good is manufactured.
US08241790B2	Positive electrode active material and non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery containing the same In a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery comprising: a negative electrode containing, as a negative electrode active material, at least a material capable of absorbing and desorbing lithium ions or metal lithium; a positive electrode; and an electrolyte, an oxide containing nickel and manganese elements, the material comprising primary particles of the oxide having a twining portion and a superlattice arrangement of a [√{square root over ( )}3×√{square root over ( )}3] R30° when assigned as R3-m is used as a positive electrode active material.
US08241789B2	Battery structures, self-organizing structures and related methods An energy storage device includes a first electrode comprising a first material and a second electrode comprising a second material, at least a portion of the first and second materials forming an interpenetrating network when dispersed in an electrolyte, the electrolyte, the first material and the second material are selected so that the first and second materials exert a repelling force on each other when combined. An electrochemical device, includes a first electrode in electrical communication with a first current collector; a second electrode in electrical communication with a second current collector; and an ionically conductive medium in ionic contact with said first and second electrodes, wherein at least a portion of the first and second electrodes form an interpenetrating network and wherein at least one of the first and second electrodes comprises an electrode structure providing two or more pathways to its current collector.
US08241788B1	Method for making flat and high-density cathode for use in electrochemical cells The traditional method of pressing CFx, screen and SVO sheet assembly results in an electrode that is cupped and not flat. This results in the reduction of the effective volumetric energy density of the electrode or the addition of a process step of flattening of the cathode if at all possible. The new method of assembly effectively eliminates the cupping behavior and produces a flat electrode. In addition, the physical density of the cathode is also increased.
US08241782B2	Battery cover and portable electronic device using the same A battery cover which detachably mounted on a portable electronic device to protect the battery of the portable electronic device. The battery cover includes a main cover and a sliding cover, the sliding cover is slidably mounted on the main cover. Two opposite ends of the main cover and the sliding cover each includes at least one tab or projection protruding there from respectively. The battery cover has a simple structure, and is easy for operating. The invention also includes a portable electronic device using the battery cover.
US08241779B2	Battery cover mechanism including sliding unit to latch battery to housing of electronic device A battery assembling mechanism of electronic device includes a housing and a sliding assembly, the housing has a first sidewall, the first sidewall defines an assembling hole; The sliding assembly includes a sliding unit slidably assembled on the housing and able to block a portion of the assembling hole. The battery can be latched or taken out from the housing by sliding the sliding unit.
US08241774B2	Battery device, electronic apparatus, and battery system Disclosed is a battery device including a battery enclosure incorporating a battery cell. The battery device further includes an output terminal that outputs power of the battery cell. The battery enclosure includes a first surface, a second surface, a first step surface, a second step surface, a first engaging portion, a second engaging portion, a first groove, and a second groove formed in the second step surface and the second engaging portion, and a recess is provided in at least one of the first step surface and the second step surface.
US08241767B2	Magnetic disk formed of nanotube arrays containing magnetic nanoparticles A magnetic storage medium is formed of magnetic nanoparticles that are encapsulated within nanotubes (e.g., carbon nanotubes), which are arranged in a substrate to facilitate the reading and writing of information by a read/write head. The substrate may be flexible or rigid. Information is stored on the magnetic nanoparticles via the read/write head of a storage device. These magnetic nanoparticles are arranged into data tracks to store information through encapsulation within the carbon nanotubes. As carbon nanotubes are bendable, the carbon nanotubes may be arranged on flexible or rigid substrates, such as a polymer tape or disk for flexible media, or a glass substrate for rigid disk. A polymer may assist holding the nano-particle filled carbon-tubes to the substrate.
US08241766B2	Laminated exchange coupling adhesion (LECA) media for heat assisted magnetic recording An apparatus includes a plurality of bilayer structures positioned adjacent to each other, each of the bilayer structures including a first layer of magnetic material having a first Curie temperature and a second layer of magnetic material positioned adjacent to the first layer, wherein the second layer has a second Curie temperature that is lower than the first Curie temperature, and magnetic grains of the first layer are unstable when the second layer of magnetic material is heated above the second Curie temperature. The recording temperature is reduced due to the smaller switching volume achieved by using vertically decoupled laminations at elevated temperatures.
US08241765B2	Fluorescent ink compositions comprising functionalized fluorescent nanocrystals A fluorescent ink composition comprising functionalized fluorescent nanocrystals, an aqueous-based ink carrier comprising water or a water-based solution, and a binder. Also provided are methods of providing an image or a security mark on a substrate for subsequent identification by applying a fluorescent ink composition onto the substrate.
US08241759B2	Zinc-plated high-tension steel sheet excellent in press formability A high-strength galvanized steel sheet having excellent formability contains as a chemical component of steel on a mass percent basis: 0.05% to 0.3% of C; more than 0.60% to 2.0% of Si; 0.50% to 3.50% of Mn; 0.003% to 0.100% of P; 0.010% or less of S; 0.010% to 0.06% of Al; 0.007% or less of N; and the balance including Fe and inevitable impurities, and in the microstructure of the steel sheet, the standard deviation of nano-hardness is 1.50 GPa or less.
US08241757B2	Multilayer substrate A multilayer substrate includes a base layer, a coating layer and an intermediate layer positioned between the base layer and the coating layer. The intermediate layer contains chromium and nitrogen. A content of the chromium in the intermediate layer gradually decreases from the base layer to the coating layer.
US08241753B2	Composite thermoplastic elastomer structures with high adhesion performance and uses for the same Provided is a composition thermoplastic elastomer structure comprising (1) a first component comprising a first elastomeric component comprising an at least partially vulcanized rubber and a thermoplastic resin, (2) an adhesive later comprising a grafted random propylene copolymer and (3) a third component comprising a polyamide or polyester. The third component is at least partially adhered to the adhesive component, which is in turn, partially adhered to the first component. The structure has superior adhesive properties between structures. Also provided are articles made from the structures, particularly automotive weather seals, glass run channels, a noise attenuating device, automotive interior part, automotive belt, automotive hose, industrial belt, industrial hose, packaging material, construction material, decorative building material, and other consumer goods.
US08241750B2	Functional multilayer anisotropic conductive adhesive laminate A functional multilayer anisotropic conductive adhesive film, capable of bonding and package 0.18-0.13 micron IC chips and high density COF, includes a monomer layer, a reinforcing layer, a low-temperature, hot-melt resin layer, and a conductive particle layer, successively bonded by coating and drying processes. The monomer layer comprises a copolymer of butyl acrylate, methyl acrylate, glycol acrylate, and tetramethyl butyl peroxy-2-ethyl hexanoate. The reinforcing layer comprises long chain imidazole derivatives. The hot-melt resin layer comprises polymer of tocopheroxyl, novolac epoxy, acrylic rubbers and elastic mixture of acrylic rubbers and styrene-butadiene rubbers. The conductive particle layer comprises conductive particles and micro-encapsulating resin for receiving the conductive particles. Diameter of the conductive particles is selected from the group consisting of 3.00 μm±0.05, 3.25 μm±0.05, 3.50 μm±0.05, 3.75 μm±0.05 and 4.00 μm±0.05.
US08241749B2	Barrier laminate, gas barrier film, and device using the same Disclosed is a barrier laminate comprising at least one organic layer and at least one inorganic layer on a surface of the organic layer, wherein the organic layer is formed by curing a polymerizable composition comprising a compound having a triphenylene skeleton and a polymerizable group.
US08241748B2	High chroma optically variable color-shifting strand and woven products Opaque color shifting strands are disclosed that have an optically variable color with a change in angle of incident light. The strands have an organic substrate and an optical interference structure on one or both sides of the organic substrate. The optical interference design can be a Fabry-Perot structure or can be optically variable ink. Plural strands can be combined to form a textile for example such as a garment label.
US08241747B2	Malodor absorbent polymer and fiber Thermoplastic polyolefin polymer composition, polymer chip, fiber, woven or nonwoven fabric, film, closures, laminates can comprise a polymer, a polymer and a nonvolatile polymer-compatible carboxylic acid. Thermoplastic polyolefin polymer composition can also comprise a polymer, a cyclodextrin-modified polymer and a nonvolatile polymer-compatible carboxylic acid. The carboxylic acid moiety of the polymer composition can react with basic materials in the polymer environment and reduce release of the basic material. The cyclodextrin can act to absorb or trap other contaminants or odors in the environment.
US08241746B2	Tissue cassette label A multilayer label comprising a polymeric film or cloth, e.g., a polyester film or a polyester woven cloth, having opposing facial surfaces, one facial surface of which is in intimate contact with a xylene-resistant, water-based topcoat and the other facial surface of which is in intimate contact with a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) if the other facial surface is a cloth, or a water-based, melted wax-resistant PSA if the other facial surface is a film.
US08241745B2	Essentially chromium-free method for passivating metallic surfaces consisting of Zn, Zn alloys, Al or Al alloys The present invention relates to a substantially chromium-free process for passivating metallic surfaces of Zn, Zn alloys, Al or Al alloys by treating the surface with an acidic aqueous formulation which comprises at least one substantially noncrosslinked, water-soluble polymer or copolymer containing at least 50% by weight of (meth)acrylic acid units and comprises water or an aqueous solvent mixture comprising at least 50% by weight of water, and by further treating the surface with at least one water-soluble crosslinker comprising at least 2 crosslinking groups selected from the group consisting of azirane, oxirane, and thiirane groups. The invention further relates to passivating layers obtainable by means of the process and to a formulation suitable for this process.
US08241740B2	Antireflective film, method of manufacturing antireflective film, polarizing plate and image display device using the same An antireflective film comprising: a support; and at least one layer including an antireflective layer, wherein at least one of said at least one layer laminated on the support is a layer formed by ionizing radiation curing of a composition containing a combination of a radical polymerization initiator with at least one compound selected from two or more kinds of initiator assistants and further containing an ionizing radiation curable compound.
US08241737B2	Optical multilayer body, polarization plate using same, and image display An optical laminate is provided which has anti-dazzling properties and can realize excellent glare preventive properties and black reproducibility (gradation rendering of black at low brightness). The optical laminate includes a light transparent base material and an anti-dazzling layer or a light diffusion layer provided on the light transparent base material, wherein the outermost surface of the anti-dazzling layer or light diffusion layer has a concavoconvex surface. The anti-dazzling layer satisfies the requirements that Sm is not less than 100 μm and not more than 600 μm, θa is not less than 0.1 degree and not more than 1.2 degrees, and Rz is more than 0.2 μm and not more than 1 μm, wherein Sm represents the average spacing of concavoconvexes in the anti-dazzling layer, θa represents the average inclination angle of the concavoconvexes, and Rz represents the average roughness of the concavoconvexes.
US08241735B2	Substrate for display device and method of manufacturing the same There is provided a substrate for a display device that has excellent gas barrier properties, flexibility, heat resistance and transparency, and has excellent dimensional stability, operability, and secondary processing characteristics. A substrate for a display device according to the present invention includes: an inorganic glass; and resin layers placed on both sides of the inorganic glass. Preferably, a ratio drsum/dg between a total thickness drsum of the resin layer and a thickness dg of the inorganic glass is 0.5 to 2.2. Preferably, the resin layers on both sides of the inorganic glass are each composed of the same material, each have the same thickness, and a thickness of each of the resin layers is equal to the thickness of the inorganic glass. Preferably, an average coefficient of linear expansion at 170° C. of the substrate for a display device is 20 ppm ° C.−1 or less.
US08241732B2	Transfer film Described is a transfer film, in particular a hot embossing film, which includes a carrier film and a transfer layer portion having a structure layer, the transfer layer portion being arranged on the carrier film and being detachable from the carrier film, wherein it is provided that the carrier film has a master relief structure on its side towards the structure layer and the structure layer on its side towards the carrier film has a relief structure complementary to the master relief structure of the carrier film. There is further provided a process for the production of the transfer film and a multi-layer body formed with the structure layer.
US08241727B2	Method of producing solid decorated graphic arts objects Decorated three-dimensional articles (64, 78, 82, 86) may be produced having wall structure (66-72) with distortion-free images (40a, 40b) appearing through the inner and outer surfaces of the wall structure (66-72). Preferably, a sheet of paper stock (38) is imprinted on both faces with mirror images (40a, 40b), and the stock (38) is applied to a light-transmitting substrate (44) so that the image (40b) appears through the substrate (44), thereby yielding a blank (50). A plurality of lines of weakness (54) are formed in the blank (50) by laser ablation extending through the image (40a) and stock (38), but not through the image (40b), in order to define spaced apart bend areas (56). The substrate (44) is then heated along the bend areas (56), and the blank (50) is formed about a mandrel (62). If desired, the formed blank (50) may be completed by addition of a base (74). The invention can be used for the economical production of a virtually limitless number of three-dimensional articles, even with one-off unique articles or short runs of articles.
US08241721B2	Re-expandable sealing tape The elastically re-expandable sealing tape for sealing a joint includes an elastically expanding foam strip of rectangular cross-section which is held in a compressed state. This is accomplished by means of at least one releasable seam, which extends across the sealing tape and consists of at least one thread, which passes through the foam strip.
US08241718B2	Preform and a mold stack for producing the preform There is provided a preform, and a mold stack for producing the preform. For example, there is provided a preform suitable for subsequent blow-molding. The preform includes a neck portion, a gate portion, and a body portion, extending between said neck portion, and said gate portion. The gate portion, has a conical shape. In an example embodiment, the conical shape is selected such that to homogenize angle of refraction of rays, used during a re-heating stage of a blow-molding process.
US08241717B1	Carbon-based biofilm carrier A carbon-based biofilm carrier is formed of saturated fatty acids and saturated fatty alcohols. The carriers are shaped with a hollow center and have a length that ranges from bout 0.3 to about 1.5 times its outer diameter. The shape provides both maximum surface area and maximum protection during aerobic and anaerobic biological treatment of wastewater.
US08241714B2	Architectural panels with objects embedded in resin interlayer A decorative architectural glass panel comprises a two or more glass sheets separated by a resin in which one or more decorative objects are suspended. A method of making the glass panel comprises positioning one or more spacers and one or more decorative objects on a first glass sheet, placing a second glass sheet about the first glass sheet, sealing the edges of the first glass sheet and second glass sheet, and filling the space between the first and second glass sheets with a curable liquid resin. The resin can be poured using a substantially horizontal pour in order to keep the decorative objects from substantially shifting when pouring the liquid resin. The resin can also be poured in combination with a vacuum force. In some implementations, the glass panel may also be substituted with a resin panel using polymeric resin sheets.
US08241713B2	Moisture barrier coatings for organic light emitting diode devices A process for fabricating an amorphous diamond-like film layer for protection of a moisture or oxygen sensitive electronic device is described. The process includes forming a plasma from silicone oil, depositing an amorphous diamond-like film layer from the plasma, andcombining the amorphous diamond-like film layer with a moisture or oxygen sensitive electronic device to form a protected electronic device. Articles including the amorphous diamond-like film layer on an organic electronic device are also disclosed.
US08241707B2	Silsesquioxane resins This invention pertains to silsesquioxane resins useful in antireflective coatings wherein the silsesquioxane resin is comprised of the units (Ph(CH2)rSiO(3−x)/2(OR′)x)m (HSiO(3−x)/2(OR′)x)n (MeSiO(3−x)/2(OR′)x)o (RSiO(3−x)/2(OR′)x)p (R1SiO(3−x)/2(OR′)x)q where Ph is a phenyl group, Me is a methyl group; R′ is hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms; R is selected from a hydroxyl producing group; and R1 is selected from substituted phenyl groups, ester groups, polyether groups; mercapto groups, and reactive or curable organic functional groups; and r has a value of 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4; x has a value of 0, 1 or 2; wherein in the resin m has a value of 0 to 0.95; n has a value of 0.05 to 0.95; o has a value of 0.05 to 0.95; p has a value of 0.05 to 0.5; q has a value of 0 to 0.5; and m+n+o+p+q≈1.
US08241703B2	Pre-formed controlled particle formed of fine particles non-chemically bonded together, composite structure formation method involving controlled particles, and composite structure formation system involving controlled particle A composite structure formation method based on an aerosol deposition method by which an aerosol with brittle material fine particles dispersed in a gas is sprayed toward a substrate to form a structure made of the brittle material fine particles, the composite structure formation method includes: storing a plurality of controlled particles in a storage mechanism, the controlled particle being an assembly packed with a plurality of particles including the brittle material fine particles; supplying the controlled particles from the storage mechanism to an aerosolation mechanism; disaggregating the supplied controlled particles in the aerosolation mechanism to form an aerosol; and spraying the aerosol toward the substrate to form a composite structure having the structure and the substrate.
US08241702B2	Method for producing a coating through cold gas spraying The embodiments include a method for producing a coating through cold gas spraying. In the process, particles according to the embodiments are used which contain a photocatalytic material. In order to improve the effect of this photocatalytic material (such as titanium dioxide), a reactive gas can be added to the cold gas stream, the reactive gas being activated by a radiation source not shown, for example by UV light, on the surface of the coating that forms. This makes it possible to, for example, dose titanium dioxide with nitrogen. This allows the production of in situ layers having advantageously high catalytic effectiveness. The use of cold gas spraying has the additional advantage in that the coating can be designed to contain pores that enlarge the surface available for catalysis.
US08241700B2	Deposition method and manufacturing method of light-emitting device An object is to provide a deposition method in which an organic material layer which is a material of a common layer is evenly formed over an entire surface of a donor substrate (a first substrate) and can be transferred to an element formation substrate (a second substrate) as transfer layers which are common layers for red (R), green (G), and blue (B) with different thicknesses. An organic material layer over a first absorption layer and a second absorption layer is deposited to a second substrate as a first transfer layer and a second transfer layer by sublimating the organic material layer over the first substrate. The thicknesses of the first and second transfer layers differ in accordance with the ratio of the area of the first absorption layer to the area of the second absorption layer.
US08241699B2	Deposition apparatus and method for manufacturing film by using deposition apparatus A vapor deposition device 100 for moving a sheet-like substrate 4 in a roll-to-roll system in a chamber 2 to continuously form a vapor deposition film on the substrate 4. The vapor deposition device 100 comprises an evaporation source 9 for evaporating a vapor-depositing material; a transportation section including first and second rolls 3 and 8 for holding the substrate 4 in the state of being wound therearound and a guide section for guiding the substrate 4; and a shielding section, located in a vapor deposition possible zone, for forming a shielded zone which is not reachable by the vapor-depositing material from the evaporation source 9. Vapor deposition zones 60a through 60d include a planar transportation zone for transporting the substrate 4 such that the surface of the substrate 4 to be subjected to the vapor-depositing material is planar; and the transportation section is located with respect to the evaporation source 9 such that the vapor-depositing material is not incident on the substrate 4 in a direction of the normal to the substrate in the vapor deposition possible zone excluding the shielded zone.
US08241695B2	Process for producing fat and oil composition for deep-frying with superior heat stability Disclosed is a process for producing a fat and oil composition for deep-frying, which has superior flavor and is suppressed, for a long time, in color development and unfavorable odor during heating. Specifically disclosed is a process for producing a fat and oil composition for deep-frying, which is characterized in that at least one phosphorus-derived component selected from a crude oil or a partially refined fat and oil, is added into a refined edible fat and oil in such an amount that the phosphorus content is within the range of 0.1 to 5.0 ppm.
US08241693B2	Method of producing a fat composition The invention relates to a method of producing a fat-containing suspension and/or a fat-containing emulsion, in particular a chocolate or a chocolate-like fat composition, by mixing an emulsion formed by means of a reactive emulsifying technique, which emulsion has a disperse aqueous phase and a continuous fat phase, with a fat phase, in particular a cocoa mass. The invention relates, in particular, to a method of producing agave syrup-containing chocolate, wherein an emulsion consisting of cocoa butter or another fat or fat mixture and agave syrup or an aqueous sugar solution is generated and mixed with cocoa mass. According to the invention, the emulsion and later the chocolate are stabilized by emulsification at elevated temperature and evaporating the agave syrup or the sugar solution in the emulsified state. An otherwise customary comminution of the dry materials is therefore no longer necessary since the fineness necessary for sensory properties is set by the emulsifying process.
US08241689B2	Production of baked snack chips with irregular shape having notched edges Thin, baked fermented chips having an irregular shape and surface bubbles are produced by cutting a fermented, wheat-based compressed dough sheet into a plurality of pieces having different shapes and notches with a single rotary cutter so that the dough pieces form an interlocking pattern and the notches extend around the periphery of each piece. The notches are spaced around the periphery of each piece and facilitate separation of the dough pieces from each other while at least substantially avoiding tearing and breaking of the dough pieces. A plurality of notches of each piece are aligned or contiguous with notches of any adjacent piece in the interlocking pattern.
US08241687B2	Preservation of organic liquids A method is provided for treating cooking oil during frying operations, which comprises in situ treatment of the oil with a source of calcium or magnesium combined with silicate such that the calcium or magnesium substantially does not leach into the oil. The filter treatment materials may be cement clinker, OPC, calcium silicate and combinations or mixtures thereof e.g. a combination of white OPC clinker and white OPC. The filter treatment materials may be in the form of a free briquette or block immersed in the oil. In other embodiments a decontaminating or filter cartridge is provided for fitting to a deep oil or fat cooker or a frying basket and comprises a foraminous housing containing filtering or decontaminant material. The cartridge may be used in association with a deep oil or fat fryer having a base formed with a depression defining a cool spot, the cartridge fitting in or on said cool spot.
US08241685B2	Processing method and device for extrusion of raw materials with enzymes added for production of starch syrup, and saccharogenic method for extruded raw materials This invention relates generally to the field of starch syrup production, specifically to a processing method and a device for the extrusion of raw materials with enzymes added for starch syrup, and a saccharogenic method of the extruded raw materials. This invention discloses the kind and amount of enzymes added, the appropriate parameters of the processing method and the device for the extrusion of raw materials with enzymes added for starch syrup, and the appropriate saccharogenic method of the extruded raw materials for starch syrup. The processing method and the device of this invention are such that the jet liquefaction process as used in the traditional double enzyme method for starch syrup production can be spared, and starch syrup with the same DE value can be obtained in a saccharification time which can be shorten 2-4 times the traditional saccharification time.
US08241684B2	Preventive and/or therapeutic agent for inflammatory bowel diseases The present invention relates to a preventive and/or a therapeutic agent for inflammatory bowel diseases containing a fermentation product of a propionic acid bacterium as an active ingredient.
US08241682B2	Effects of Dichrostachys glomerata DG, Hypodaphnis zenkeri HZ, and Xylopia aethiopica XA on various cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic syndrome Methods of improving a variety of health related factors including, but not limited to weight, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels and HDL levels, is provided. In one embodiment, a method of reducing LDL cholesterol levels of a mammal in need thereof is provided, the method comprises administering a composition containing an effective amount of Dichrostachys glomerata, to a mammal, whereby the administering of the composition to the mammal is effective in reducing LDL cholesterol levels in the mammal.
US08241678B2	Synergistic antioxidant combinations of herb extracts and methods relating thereto The present invention comprises mixtures of herb extracts which exert synergistic antioxidant effect and comprise the herb licorice and at least one other herb selected from the group consisting of ginger, kudzu, sophora, and thyme. Skin care preparations incorporating such herb extract mixtures, and their methods of preparation and use, are also claimed.
US08241676B2	Use of a Limnophila extract as a cosmetic agent, and cosmetic composition containing same The invention relates to the use of a plant extract of a plant of the Limnophila genus, in particular an extract of the plant species Limnophila conferta, as a cosmetic agent or as an active agent in cosmetic compositions.
US08241672B2	Omega-3 enriched fish oil-in-water parenteral nutrition emulsions A composition is provided which includes an enriched fish oil as a lipid source. Also provided is a composition which includes a fatty acid of a fish oil and a medium-chain triglyceride, wherein the composition is an oil-in-water emulsion.
US08241668B2	Therapeutic polyesters and polyamides Polymers (i.e. polyesters, polyamides, and polythioesters or a mixture thereof) which degrade hydrolytically into biologically active compounds are provided. Methods of producing these polymers, intermediates useful for preparing these polymers, and methods of using these polymers to deliver biologically active compounds to a host are also provided.
US08241663B2	Liposome preparation A liposome preparation is provided. This liposome preparation is capable of stably encapsulating a drug which is unstable under an acidic condition, and such stable encapsulation is realized without detracting the effect realized by the modification of the membrane by a hydrophilic macromolecule such as stability in blood. More specifically, the liposome preparation comprises a unilamellar vesicle formed from a lipid bilayer comprising a phospholipid as its main membrane component, and an interior aqueous phase of the vesicle at a pH of up to 5. The liposome has a drug loaded therein, and the vesicle is modified with a hydrophilic macromolecule only on its exterior surface.
US08241662B2	Unoccluded topical oxybutynin gel composition and methods for transdermal oxybutynin therapy The present invention provides compositions and methods for administering oxybutynin while minimizing the incidence and or severity of adverse drug experiences associated with oxybutynin therapy. In one aspect, these compositions and methods provide a lower plasma concentration of oxybutynin metabolites, such as N-desethyloxybutynin, which is presumed to be contributing at least in part to some of the adverse drug experiences, while maintaining sufficient oxybutynin plasma concentration to benefit a subject with oxybutynin therapy. The invention also provides isomers of oxybutynin and its metabolites that meet these characteristics of minimized incidence and/or severity of adverse drug experiences, and maintenance of beneficial and effective therapy for overactive bladder. In some aspects, the composition may be presented in the form of an unoccluded or free form topically administered gel.
US08241658B2	Prebiotic compositions The present invention concerns nutritional compositions comprising oligosaccharides for controlling inflammatory bowel disease and related disorders, such as diarrhea and constipation.
US08241656B2	Articles including natural biodegradable polysaccharides and uses thereof Medical articles having a body member including natural biodegradable polysaccharides are described. The body member is formed from a plurality of natural biodegradable polysaccharides having pendent coupling groups. The body member can also include a bioactive agent which can be released to provide a therapeutic effect to a patient.
US08241651B2	Multiphasic biofunctional nano-components and methods for use thereof Multiphasic nano-components (MPNs) having at least two phases and at least one active ingredient are provided. The MPNs can be used in various methods for medical diagnostics or with pharmaceutical, personal care, oral care, and/or nutritional compositions, for example, in oral care, hair, or skin products. The MPNs can be designed to have targeted delivery within an organism, while providing controlled release systems or combining incompatible active ingredients. Further, the MPNs can be used as biomedical coatings (such as anti-microbial coatings), or anti-corrosive coatings, bioimaging probes with combined diagnostic and therapeutic use, and fragrance release systems, among others. The MPNs can be formed by electrified jetting of polymers.
US08241649B2	Dermatological/cosmetic gels comprising at least one retinoid and/or retinoid salt and benzoyl peroxide Dermatological/cosmetic gel compositions suited for preventing or treating cell differentiation and/or proliferation and/or keratinization disorders, including preventing or treating common acne, comprise (i) at least one retinoid, (ii) dispersed benzoyl peroxide and (iii) at least one pH-independent gelling agent, formulated into (iv) a physiologically acceptable medium therefor.
US08241648B2	Amphiphilic or lipophilic polar functionalized fullerenes and their uses Described herein are synthetically modified fullerene molecules, wherein the fullerene is preferably ellipsoid in shape with an equatorial band and two opposing poles, comprising an adduct at one or both poles, at least one adduct being a hydrophobic chemical moiety capable of anchoring the fullerene on or in a lipid membrane.
US08241647B2	Amphiphilic molecule, molecular assembly comprising the amphiphilic molecule, and use of the molecular assembly The present invention provides an amphiphilic molecule having a plurality of zwitterionic functional groups in its hydrophilic moiety and a molecular assembly comprising the amphiphilic molecule as a constituent lipid. The molecular assembly of the present invention forms a stable vesicular structure under a physiological pH environment to carry a substance of interest in the vesicular structure, and can release the substance of interest to the outside of the vesicular structure when it is deformed under an acidic pH environment. The molecular assembly of the present invention can be used as a carrier for a drug, a probe, a nucleic acid, a protein or the like.
US08241645B2	Vaccine A typhoid vaccine using heat shock protein (Hsp) of Salmonella typhi and a method for the manufacture thereof. A composition comprising an effective amount of a complex of a Hsp, in part or whole, either alone or covalently or non-covalently bound to an antigenic molecule, which when administered to a mammal elicits specific immunological responses in the host. The antigenic molecule refers to the exogenous antigens/immunogens such as viz LPS, peptide, nucleic acid or polysaccharide or antigenic/immunogenic fragments and derivatives thereof.
US08241641B2	Targeted delivery of botulinum toxin for the treatment and prevention of trigeminal autonomic cephalgias, migraine and vascular conditions Botulinum toxin, among other presynaptic neurotoxins is used for the treatment and prevention of migraine and other headaches associated with vascular disorders. Presynaptic neurotoxins are delivered focally, targeting the nerve endings of the trigeminal nerve, the occipital nerve and the intranasal terminals of the parasympathetic fibers originating in the Sphenopalatine ganglion. The administration preferably targets the extracranial nerve endings of the trigeminal nerve in the temporal area, the extracranial occipital nerve endings in the occipital area, and the intranasal terminals of the trigeminal nerve and parasympathetic fibers originating in the Sphenopalatine ganglion. The delivery is carried out by way of injection or topically.
US08241640B2	Pharmaceutical botulinum toxin compositions Botulinum toxin, a well know systemic poison, produces favorable therapeutic effect by virtue of regionally attaching to nerves within the myoneural junction and possibly other tissues in a target region of a particular tissue. The present invention provides compositions of botulinum toxin and a sequestration agent that increase sequestration and delivery of the botulinum toxin to neural and associated tissues, as compared with available formulations of botulinum toxins, and thereby produce a beneficial clinical effect. The sequestration agents of the present invention include proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. A preferred composition of the present invention comprises a botulinum toxin and an albumin. The present invention also provides methods of treating neuromuscular diseases and pain using the disclosed compositions and methods of making the disclosed compositions.
US08241636B2	Compositions comprising HMW-MAA and fragments thereof, and methods of use thereof This invention provides recombinant polypeptides comprising a fragment of a High Molecular Weight Melanoma-Associated Antigen (HMW-MAA), recombinant Listeria strains comprising same, and methods of inducing an immune response and treating and impeding the growth of tumors, comprising administering same.
US08241632B2	Stable polypeptide formulations The invention provides a formulation including a buffer having a pH less than 6.0, a divalent cation between about 5-200 mM, an excipient comprising a sugar or polyol and an effective amount of a therapeutic polypeptide. Also provided is a method of stabilizing a polypeptide. The method includes contacting a therapeutic polypeptide with a concentration of divalent cation between about 5-150 150 mM in a buffer having a pH less than 6.0 and an excipient comprising a sugar or polyol.
US08241630B2	HER2 antibody composition A composition comprising a main species HER2 antibody that binds to domain II of HER2, and an amino acid sequence variant thereof comprising an amino-terminal leader extension is disclosed. Pharmaceutical formulations comprising the composition, and therapeutic uses for the composition are also disclosed.
US08241625B2	Medicament and a method for regulation of the vascular tone The antibody based medicament contains ultra low doses of monoclonal, polyclonal, immune or natural antibodies to a protein or a peptide involved in the vascular tone regulation or mediating the effects of other regulators; these antibodies are used in activated (potentiated) form produced by multiple subsequent dilution and external impact, preferably in accordance with homeopathic technology. The method of treatment for diseases accompanied by disturbances of the vascular tone utilizes the use of ultra low doses of antibodies to a protein or a peptide involved in the vascular tone regulation or mediating the effects of other regulators; these antibodies are used in activated form produced by multiple subsequent dilution and external impact.
US08241621B2	Stem cell mediated treg activation/expansion for therapeutic immune modulation Disclosed are cells, methods of modulating cells, and therapeutic uses of the cells for the immune modulation of mammals in need thereof. Immune modulation including alteration of cytokine profile, cytotoxic activity, antibody production and inflammatory states is achieved through the administration of various cell types that have been unmanipulated or manipulated in order to endow specific biological activity. Cellular subsets and administration of the subsets in combination with various agents are also provided. One embodiment teaches the previously unknown finding that adipose tissue derived mononuclear cells contain T cells with immune regulatory properties that alone or synergistically with various stem cells induce immune modulation upon administration. Another embodiment is the finding that stimulation of stem cell activation results in stem cell secondary activation of immune modulatory cells, one type which is T regulatory cells (Tregs). One specific embodiment involves extraction of a heterogenous stem cell pool, which contains T regulatory cells, treatment in culture of the population with agents known to stimulate stem cell activation, then subsequent extraction and administration of the purified Tregs. Other embodiments include expansion of Tregs in the presence of antigen in order to generate anti-specific Tregs.
US08241619B2	Hindered amine nitric oxide donating polymers for coating medical devices Disclosed are hindered amine nitric oxide (NO) donating polymers for coating implantable medical devices. The polymers include sterically hindered secondary amines that do not react with monomer carbonyls or electrophilic alkenes, facilitating the synthesis of the NO donating polymers. The polymers are coated on implantable medical devices, providing anti-restenosis therapy by the release of NO at the implantation site.
US08241615B2	Water-resistant sunscreen composition The present invention is directed to sunscreen composition comprising: (a) at least one oil- and water repellent emulsifier chosen from polyperfluoroethoxymethoxy difluoroethyl PEG phosphate; (b) at least one hydrophobically-modified emulsifier chosen from inulin lauryl carbamate; (c) at least one gelling agent; and (d) sunscreen actives, and wherein the composition is water-resistant, while not requiring the use of a film-former, and is a stable emulsion.
US08241614B2	Compositions and methods for imparting a sunless tan A composition and method for imparting a sunless tan to skin is described. The composition and method make use of a sunless tanning agent like dihydroxyacetone in combination with an adjuvant such as a phosphorylated peptide.
US08241612B2	Beeswax and jojoba wax emulsion A composition of matter and a method are disclosed including mixing pieces of solid beeswax and liquid jojoba wax at a predetermined temperature within a predetermined range of temperatures, filtering the mixture, and cooling the mixture to form a colloidal gel.
US08241609B2	Method for embolization using liquid embolic materials A method for embolization using liquid embolic materials is described. The method comprises the use of two liquid components. The first liquid component is an aqueous solution or dispersion comprising at least one oxidized polysaccharide. The second liquid component is either an aqueous solution or dispersion comprising at least one water-dispersible, multi-arm amine, or a water-dispersible multi-arm amine in the form of a neat liquid. The two components crosslink in situ to form a hydrogel that should act as an effective embolic agent.
US08241607B2	Use of fructose-based compounds for the diagnosis of cancer This invention relates to compositions, methods utilizing fructose and other monosaccharides for the diagnosis of cancer. Cancer cells have shown a higher level of fructose utilization as compared to glucose. Further, cancer cells have shown a preferential use of fructose for nucleic acid synthesis. The present invention takes advantage of these features and provides for fructose or fructose-based compositions for the diagnosis of cancer using imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography.
US08241606B2	Synthesis of a radiofluorinated peptide using photolabile protecting groups The present invention encompasses a method of preparing a radiofluorinated compound by adding a photolabile protecting group, R, to an aminoxy group of a peptide based compound wherein the peptide based compound reacts with a light of a specified wavelength in an automated radiosynthesis apparatus to form a radiofluorinated compound. The present invention further relates to a photolabile peptide based compound.
US08241602B2	Method and installation for the manufacture of carbon nanotubes Method for the manufacture of carbon nanotubes by thermal decomposition of at least one gaseous hydrocarbon (14) in the presence of a solid catalyst in a reactor (4) into which the catalyst is introduced via an inlet lock chamber (17) flushed by an inert gas (21, 22, 25, 26) and from which the carbon nanotubes are withdrawn via an outlet lock chamber (37) which is flushed with a flow of inert gas (39, 40).
US08241595B2	Method for manufacturing potassium titanate A potassium titanate, method for manufacturing the potassium titanate, a friction material using the potassium titanate and a resin composition using the potassium titanate are disclosed. The potassium titanate is represented by K2TinO(2n+1) (n=4.0-11.0) and has the highest X-ray diffraction intensity peak (2θ) in the range of 11.0°-13.5° with its half width being not less than 0.5°.
US08241592B2	Cell separation method and apparatus Disclosed herein are apparatus and methods for isolating a fraction of interest from a physiological fluid sample. A sample holder for isolating a fraction of interest from a physiological fluid sample includes a flexible compartment and a rigid exoskeleton that supports the flexible compartment. The flexible compartment may have at least one reservoir with a height to volume ratio of about 0.1 cm/mL to about 5 cm/mL. An automated device for extracting a fraction of interest from the sample includes a sample holder with a flexible compartment supported by a rigid exoskeleton, a support for the sample holder connected to one or more fluid extraction devices, and a motor for moving the extraction device relative to the sample holder. The automated device may include an optical sensor and may include a clamp for clamping the flexible compartment.
US08241589B2	Flow cell A measurement fluidic channel (17) is formed at almost the center of a flow cell (1). In general, the measurement region of a measurement apparatus is set to focus on almost the center of a measurement chip. When the flow cell (1) is mounted in the measurement apparatus, the focus of the measurement region is positioned just above the measurement fluidic channel (17). The measurement apparatus can more reliably measure a sample solution flowing through the measurement fluidic channel (17). A suction pump (18) is formed in regions around the measurement fluidic channel (17). When the flow cell has the same planar shape as a conventional one, the amount of sample solution which can be supplied can be increased, compared to a conventional structure in which components are formed in line. The time during which a sample solution flows through the fluidic channel can be prolonged, the amount of sample solution can be increased, and the measurement time can also be prolonged. A sample solution flowing through the fluidic channel can be measured more reliably.
US08241588B2	Binding assay A binding assay product (1) for detecting the presence of an analyte in a sample comprising a labelling module (5), a label, a capture module (9) and a visualization module (10). The labelling module (5) comprises a first binding component capable of binding the analyte. The label is connectable to the first binding component. The capture module (9) comprises a second binding component capable of binding the analyte. The visualization module (10) is for detecting the first binding component connected to the label and bound to the second binding component via the analyte. The labelling module and the capture module comprise a fluid conducting medium in which the binding components are embedded. The labelling module (5), the capture module (9) and the visualization module (10) together define a flow path along which the sample is capable of flowing.
US08241583B2	Process for cracking a hydrocarbon feed A process for cracking a hydrocarbon feed in a reactor assembly comprising: a reactor vessel; a solid catalyst inlet by which catalyst is introduced and a solid catalyst outlet by which catalyst is removed from the reactor vessel; a plurality of feed nozzles by which feed is introduced at the bottom of the vessel; a product outlet for removing a product mixture of gas and solid catalyst at the upper part of the reactor; at least one partition plate, that divides the interior of the reactor vessel into two or more compartments, wherein the partition plate intersects the solid catalyst inlet.
US08241581B2	Apparatus, method and system for delivering ozone Apparatus, method and system for delivering sterile unit dose of ozone. System includes sterile vial containing oxygen and corona discharge assembly. Sterile vial is engaged to ozone conversion unit having high voltage transformer, ozone measurement mechanism, data input mechanism, and displayed read-out. When power is supplied to sterile vial containing corona discharge assembly, oxygen is converted to specified concentration of ozone. Sterile vial is disengaged from ozone conversion unit, drawing port is attached, and needle or similar extraction tool is used to withdrawal ozone for treatment.
US08241578B2	Catalytic apparatus for vehicle A catalytic apparatus for a vehicle, may include a caning that is a single hollow unit with both distal ends open, a front substrate and a rear substrate that are disposed apart from each other with a predetermined space therebetween in the caning, and a front flange that is connected to one of the distal ends of the caning to be joined with a front muffler pipe connected to an exhaust manifold and has a bottom portion inclined toward the center axis of the front substrate in the vertical cross section.
US08241575B2	Molecularly imprinted polymer sensor device A molecularly imprinted polymer sensor device for detecting the presence of a taggant molecular structure in a fluid is disclosed. The molecularly imprinted polymer sensor device comprises a molecularly imprinted crosslinked polymer having a crosslinked core and a plurality of polymer arms attached to the core, wherein the core has molecular sized cavities adapted to selectively receive and bind displacement molecules having the taggant molecular structure and a colorimetric indicator, said displacement molecule being selectively removed from the molecularly imprinted crosslinked polymer and replaced with the taggant molecular structure upon exposure to the fluid containing the taggant molecular structure therein, thereby indicating the presence of the taggant molecular structure in the fluid.
US08241570B1	Flow cell device A flow cell device is formed with: a plurality of cell recess portions adapted to cooperate with a plurality of sensor devices to confine a plurality of sample receiving space for receiving a liquid sample, respectively; a plurality of pairs of first and second guiding channels, each pair being in fluid communication with a respective one of the cell recess portions; a number of connecting recess portions each fluidly communicating the first and second guiding channels that respectively extend to a corresponding pair of the cell recess portions such that the liquid sample is able to flow through the sample receiving spaces sequentially; and inlet and outlet channels in fluid communication with the first and second guiding channels that respectively extend to a first one and a last one of the cell recess portions for introducing and discharging the liquid sample into and from the flow cell device, respectively.
US08241569B2	Lead-free piezoelectric ceramic films and a method for making thereof This invention relates to lead-free piezoelectric ceramic films and a method of making thereof. Specifically, the invention is directed to a method for fabricating lead-free piezoelectric free standing films having enhanced piezoelectric properties. The films may be used for a number of applications including incorporation in microelectronic devices such as energy harvesting devices and sensor technologies.
US08241567B2	Hydrogel compositions The invention relates to compositions comprising a hydrogel matrix, where the matrix comprises poly(ethylene glycol) dimethyacrylate (PEGDMA), an acrylate, such as methacrylic acid (MAA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA), as well as 2-hydroxy-2 methyl propiophenone (HMPP).
US08241566B2	Bent microstructures for sampling, transporting or dispensing a fluid media A device for sampling, transporting and/or disposal of fluid media in the nl and μl-range comprises a substrate with and open or closed capillary-like groove or channel respectively, the substrate with the open or closed groove or capillary respectively is bent or arcuated at least at one location. The substrate comprises at least one end into which the open closed capillary-like groove or channel respectively is extended, which end is shaped according to its application or use as e.g. needle-like, straight-lined cut, tip-like, at least most half circle-shape, rounded, etc.
US08241565B1	Shoe sole sanitizing device and associated method for eradicating microorganisms from an exterior surface of a shoe sole A shoe sole sanitizing device preferably includes a portable platform including a pair of shoe sole-receiving sections including open bottom surfaces respectively. Each of the shoe sole-receiving sections may be adapted to receive the exterior sole of the shoe thereon. The portable platform may further include a plurality of disposable transparent stratums removably positioned on the open bottom surfaces respectively. A plurality of ultraviolet light emitting sources are aligned beneath the shoe sole-receiving sections respectively. Notably, a mechanism is also provided for independently toggling each of the ultraviolet light emitting sources between on and off modes upon detecting a corresponding triggering event respectively. The ultraviolet light emitting sources upwardly emit an array of ultraviolet light towards the transparent stratums respectively such that the ultraviolet light arrays penetrate through the disposable transparent stratums and eradicate microorganisms deposited on the exterior surface of the shoe sole.
US08241561B2	Stress-buffering material Inventors of the present invention have found that, by manufacturing a stress-buffering material with a Ca-containing aluminum alloy including 0.1 to 12 at % of Ca, the stress-buffering material at low cost, capable of expanding its use in various fields, and having low Young's modulus that is beyond a conventional level, can be obtain.
US08241555B2	Method for manufacturing a honeycomb structure A method for manufacturing a honeycomb structure 130 includes: subjecting a forming raw material to extrusion forming to obtain a segment-joined type honeycomb formed article 100 provided with honeycomb segments 1 and an outer peripheral portion 2 surrounding a whole outermost periphery of the honeycomb segments, wherein a slit-shaped gap 8 extending from one end face 11 to the other end face 12 is formed between adjacent segments, the adjacent honeycomb segments are joined by a belt-like joining rib 4 extending from the face 11 to the face 12 and having a thickness of 0.1 to 1.5 mm, and the honeycomb segments 1 have partition walls separating and forming cells; firing the honeycomb formed article 100 to form a honeycomb fired article 110; destroying the joining rib 4 in the honeycomb fired article 110; and forming a buffer portion 7 by filling a bonding material in the gap 3.
US08241554B1	Method of forming a stent pattern on a tube Methods of fabricating an implantable medical device from a tube or a sheet in an expanded or stretched state, respectively, are disclosed herein. The implantable medical device may be an endoprosthesis such as a stent. In one embodiment, the method may include radially expanding a tube about a cylindrical axis of the tube from a first diameter to a second diameter. The method may further include forming a pattern on at least a portion of the expanded tube. Additional embodiments may include forming a stent pattern on a stretched sheet from which a stent may be formed. In addition, a stent pattern may be formed on a tube that is formed from a stretched sheet.
US08241552B2	Method and apparatus for producing a composite component In a method and apparatus for producing a composite component, a tubular hollow section blank is placed into a die cavity of a combination tool comprising an inner high-pressure shaping tool and an injection-molding tool. The combination tool is filled with a fluid in such a way that the blank is wetted from the inside by the fluid, and the ends of the combination tool are sealed by two axial molding plugs. The filled blank is then expanded under pressure . The finished hollow section is plastic-coated in the same tool. The hollow section is emptied after shaping in the sealed state, at least until it is no longer dripping, the pressurized fluid being expelled under pressure from the hollow section through at least one discharge channel formed in the axial molding plugs.
US08241551B2	Method of stretch-blow-moulding a beverage container A method of stretch-blow-molding a beverage container for containing a carbonized beverage which method comprises providing a preform (11) having a neck part and a body part. The preform includes an inner layer (24) of a first polymeric composition, an outer layer (12) of a second polymeric composition, and an intermediate layer (22) of a third polymeric composition. The third polymeric composition has adhesive surface properties relative to the first and second polymeric compositions, and the adhesive surface properties are permanently degraded by exposure to irradiation of a certain wavelength or certain wavelengths and intensity. The method further comprises mounting the preform onto a stretch-blow-molding device and blow molding the preform into the beverage container by irradiating the body part with radiation at least including the certain wavelength or certain wavelengths and intensity while protecting the neck part from any substantial radiation.
US08241549B2	Fluorinated elastomeric gas diffuser membrane The present invention relates generally to a structure for a diffused aeration system. More particularly, the invention encompasses a diffuser membrane where at least a portion of the surface has been treated with at least one layer of fluorine, to form a fluorinated elastomeric gas diffuser membrane. The invention also includes the deposition of fluorine atoms on the surface of a non-fluorine containing membrane to create a permanent fluoro-elastomeric surface layer. Tubular and disc diffuser members are also disclosed that have at least a portion of them treated with at least one layer of fluorine. A process of making the inventive diffuser membrane is also disclosed.
US08241546B2	Method for the direct and continuous manufacture of polyester moulded bodies with low acetaldehyde content The invention relates to a continuous method for the direct production of multilayer mold bodies from a highly condensed polyester melt.
US08241542B2	Method for preparing a composite material having nanofibers exposed therefrom A composite material having exposed nanofibers is prepared by dividing a polymer nanofiber matrix into sections. A portion of a polymeric substrate material is removed to expose lengths of nanofibers that together can act as a nanoadhesive.
US08241540B2	Method of manufacturing liquid discharge head A method of manufacturing a liquid discharge head including a flow path member for forming a flow path communicating with a discharge port discharging a liquid includes forming a mold of the flow path made of a positive photosensitive resin on a substrate; applying a coated layer on the mold for forming the flow path member, which coated layer includes a solvent, an epoxy resin, and a curing agent of the epoxy resin; removing the solvent from the coated layer at a normal temperature under substantially 1 atm. so that the weight of the coated layer may become 93% or less of that thereof at a time of applying of the coated layer, and then further removing the solvent from the coated layer under a depressurized condition; curing the coated layer; and removing the mold to form the flow path.
US08241538B2	Image forming apparatus, driving device and driving frame thereof An image forming apparatus includes driving device frame having a base plate on which is formed integrally with the base plate one or more supporting shafts for supporting one or more power transmission members that transmit driving power from a driving source to driven bodies of the image forming apparatus.
US08241537B2	Method for manufacturing polymeric fibrils An electrospinning apparatus is described. The electrospinning apparatus has a rotary nozzle mechanism that moves simultaneously along a non-linear track for forming polymeric fibrils, so that the polymeric fibrils can be piled to form a uniform web on a receiving carrier from any receiving angle. Therefore, the electrospinning apparatus resolves problems of the prior polymeric fibrils, such as various distribution and slow production rate. In addition, a method of manufacturing polymeric fibrils in the aforementioned electrospinning apparatus is further described.
US08241536B2	Process for making a coated optical lens free of visible fining lines The invention concerns a process for making a coated optical lens blank free of visible fining lines which comprises: (ix) providing an optical article having at least one fined but unpolished geometrically defined main face; (x) providing a mold part having an internal and external surface; (xi) depositing on said main face of said optical article or on the internal surface of the mold part a requisit amount of a liquid curable coating composition; (xii) moving relatively to each other the optical article and the mold part to either bring the coating composition into contact with the main face of the optical article or into contact with the internal face of the mold part; (xiii) applying pressure to the mold part to spread the liquid curable coating composition on said main face and form a uniform liquid coating composition layer onto the main face; (xiv) curing the liquid coating composition layer; (xv) withdrawing the mold part; and recovering the free of visible fining lines coated optical article.
US08241535B2	Method for transcribing patterns on resin body, method for manufacturing planar waveguide, and method for manufacturing micro-lens The present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a planar optical waveguide and a micro-lens using a transcribed resin formed by the optical nano-imprint technique. The method includes a step for forming a resin contained with ultraviolet curable materials on the substrate. The mold is pressed against the resin. This step forms a patterned resin that reflects the pattern formed in the mold. After hardening the resin by irradiating the ultraviolet rays, the resin is cooled down as the mold is pressed against the resin from the temperature T1, where the mold is pressed, to T2 below T1. After cooling down the temperature of the resin, the mold is detached to complete the resin with the pattern transcribed from the mold.
US08241527B2	Conductive elastomer material, and conductive sheet and conductive seamless belt each made of the material Disclosed is a conductive elastomer material from which a molded material having good conductivity and excellent bending resistance can be obtained. This conductive elastomer material is capable of reducing variations in in-plane electrical resistively of sheet-like molded articles. Specifically disclosed is a conductive elastomer material which is characterized by being obtained by dispersing carbon nanotubes into a base component which is composed only of a thermoplastic elastomer. The conductive elastomer material is also characterized in that the carbon nanotubes have a diameter of 30-300 nm and an aspect ratio of 10-1000, and 0.01-10 parts by mass of the carbon nanotubes are blended per 100 parts by mass of the base component.
US08241523B2	System and method for dual fluidized bed gasification A system, for production of high-quality syngas, comprising a first dual fluidized bed loop having a fluid bed conditioner operable to produce high quality syngas comprising a first percentage of components other than CO and H2 from a gas feed, wherein the conditioner comprises an outlet for a first catalytic heat transfer stream comprising a catalytic heat transfer material and having a first temperature, and an inlet for a second catalytic heat transfer stream comprising catalytic heat transfer material and having a second temperature greater than the first temperature; a fluid bed combustor operable to combust fuel and oxidant, wherein the fluid bed combustor comprises an inlet connected with the outlet for a first catalytic heat transfer stream of the conditioner, and an outlet connected with the inlet for a second catalytic heat transfer stream of the conditioner; and a catalytic heat transfer material.
US08241520B2	Environmentally benign anti-icing or deicing fluids Deicing compositions comprised of hydroxyl-containing organic compounds and/or organic acid salts are disclosed.
US08241519B2	Relaxor-PT ferroelectric single crystals A <110> domain engineered relaxor-PT single crystals having a dielectric loss of about 0.2%, a high electromechanical coupling factor greater than about 85%, and high mechanical quality factor greater than about 500 is disclosed. In one embodiment, the relaxor-PT material has the general formula, Pb(B1B2)O3—Pb(B3)O3, where B1 may be one ion or combination of Mg2+, Zn2+, Ni2+, Sc3+, In3+, Yb3+, B2 may be one ion or combination of Nb5+, Ta5+, W6+, and B3 may be Ti4+ or combination of Ti4+ with Zr4+ and/or Hf4+.
US08241515B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device and semiconductor manufacturing apparatus A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device having a process for cleaning a semiconductor substrate after the semiconductor substrate is etched for patterning includes a first process of preparing the semiconductor substrate having a first temperature, a second process of setting the semiconductor substrate at a second temperature, a third process of etching the semiconductor substrate having the second temperature by etching liquid having a third temperature, a fourth process of cleaning the semiconductor substrate to which the etching liquid is adhered, by ultrapure water having a fourth temperature, wherein the second temperature is set at the range between the first and the third temperatures.
US08241513B2	Pattern formed body and method for manufacturing same A main object of the present invention is to provide a pattern formed body capable of forming highly precise functional parts on various base materials, and a method for manufacturing the same. To achieve the object, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a pattern formed body, having a plasma radiating step of radiating plasma to a patterning substrate having: a base material; an intermediate layer formed on the base material and containing a silane coupling agent or a polymer of the silane coupling agent; and a resin layer formed in a pattern form on the intermediate layer, wherein a fluorine gas is used as an introduction gas to radiate the plasma from the resin layer side.
US08241509B2	Capillary-channel probes for liquid pickup, transportation and dispense using stressy metal Fluidic conduits, which can be used in microarraying systems, dip pen nanolithography systems, fluidic circuits, and microfluidic systems, are disclosed that use channel spring probes that include at least one capillary channel. Formed from spring beams (e.g., stressy metal beams) that curve away from the substrate when released, channels can either be integrated into the spring beams or formed on the spring beams. Capillary forces produced by the narrow channels allow liquid to be gathered, held, and dispensed by the channel spring probes. Because the channel spring beams can be produced using conventional semiconductor processes, significant design flexibility and cost efficiencies can be achieved.
US08241507B2	Method and device for separation of a liquid fluid by centrifugal separation and evaporation A method and a device for separation of a fluid in the liquid state comprising two liquids that are not mutually miscible, with different densities, wherein a first liquid is to be cleansed from a second liquid, whereby the fluid in the liquid state is conducted through a rotor where centrifugal separation of the second liquid from the first liquid takes place, and is then conducted into a tank, with the proportion of the second liquid being reduced to less than 5%, and by conducting the fluid, after centrifugal separation, through a restriction, whereby the pressure of the fluid in the liquid state is reduced, which causes portions of the fluid in the liquid state to evaporate so that further portions of the second liquid escape in the form of a gas which is conducted away, thereby further reducing the proportion of the second liquid in the outgoing fluid in the liquid state.
US08241505B2	Perchlorate removal using ion exchange resins comprising interpenetrating polymer networks The invention includes ion exchange resins, methods of making ion exchange resins and their use in the removal of perchlorate from water. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a method for removing perchlorate from a water source by contacting the water with an ion exchange resin, wherein the ion exchange resin comprises particles of a crosslinked copolymer comprising: an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) of at least two polymer components each having a styrenic content greater than 50 molar percent, and a quaternary ammonium functionality.
US08241502B2	Hollow fiber membrane module, hollow fiber membrane module unit, and water treatment method A hollow fiber membrane module, a hollow fiber membrane module unit using the hollow fiber membrane module, and a water treatment method using the module or the module unit enable the efficient contact of microorganisms on the surface of a membrane with a gas, the module and the unit having excellent durability. The hollow fiber membrane module is formed in such a manner that the end parts of sheet-form hollow fiber membranes are formed in a substantially rectangular shape and the end face of the anchoring member on a side where the hollow fiber membranes open is formed in a substantially circular shape. The hollow fiber membrane module unit is formed in such a manner that a plurality of modules is disposed. The water treatment method is used to purify treated water with the microorganisms adhered onto the outer surfaces of the hollow fiber membranes by using the module or the unit.
US08241501B2	Polymer membranes prepared from aromatic polyimide membranes by thermal treating and UV crosslinking The present invention discloses a new type of high performance polymer membranes prepared from aromatic polyimide membranes by thermal treating and crosslinking and methods for making and using these membranes. The polymer membranes were prepared from aromatic polyimide membranes by thermal treating under inert atmosphere followed by crosslinking preferably by using a UV radiation source. The aromatic polyimide membranes were made from aromatic polyimide polymers comprising both pendent hydroxy functional groups ortho to the heterocyclic imide nitrogen and cross-linkable functional groups in the polymer backbone. The membranes showed significantly improved selectivity and permeability for gas separations compared to the aromatic polyimide membranes without any treatment. The membranes can be fabricated into any convenient geometry and are not only suitable for a variety of liquid, gas, and vapor separations, but also can be used for other applications such as for catalysis and fuel cell applications.
US08241500B2	Bioaugmentation to remediate dioxane in groundwater A biomethod using a consortium of Pseudomonas sp. to reduce contaminants such as 1,4-dioxane in groundwater.
US08241495B2	Filtration module including membrane sheet with capillary channels A filtration module comprising at least one membrane sheet comprising a plurality of capillary channels in parallel arrangement with each other and which are in fluid communication with a header.
US08241494B2	Liquid filter assembly A liquid filter assembly including a first liquid filter element adapted to filter particles larger than a first size; a second different liquid filter element adapted to filter particles larger than a second size; a housing having the first and second liquid filter elements therein. The second size is smaller than the first size. The housing forms a first liquid flow path having the first liquid filter element therein, and a second liquid flow path having the second liquid filter element therein. The second filter element comprises a formed porous polymer member.
US08241493B2	Filter with ejection mechanism A filter system having a filter element ejection device is provided. Filter systems according to the present invention may include a filter element that includes an ejection receiver for receiving actuation action from an ejector of a filter housing. The ejector engages the ejection receiver when a user desires to eject the filter element from the filter housing. Typically, the ejector extends through the filter housing and axially ejects the filter element from the housing.
US08241491B1	Method of removing arsenic from hydrocarbons Improved methods for removing arsenic from starting liquid hydrocarbons are provided which comprise contacting the hydrocarbons with a composition containing a triazine component and a glycol ether component, allowing the composition to react with the arsenic to create a treated hydrocarbon fraction and an arsenic-rich fraction, and separating the treated fraction from the arsenic-rich fraction. Preferably, the treating composition also includes an alcohol, and is used at a level of from about 1-10,000 ppm.
US08241489B2	Systems, methods, and catalysts for producing a crude product Contact of a crude feed with one or more catalysts produces a total product that includes a crude product. The crude feed has a total content of alkali metal, and alkaline-earth metal, in metal salts of organic acids of at least 0.00001 grams per gram of crude feed. The crude product is a liquid mixture at 25° C. and 0.101 MPa. Contacting conditions are controlled such that the liquid hourly space velocity in a contacting zone is over 10 h−1 and the crude product has a total content of alkali metal, and alkaline-earth metal, in metal salts of organic acids of at most 90% of the total content of alkali metal, and alkaline-earth metal, in metal salts of organic acids of the crude feed. One or more other properties of the crude product may be changed by at least 10% relative to the respective properties of the crude feed.
US08241483B2	Process for the preparation of stable iodate-exchanged synthetic hydrotalcite with zero effluent discharge The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of stable iodate-exchanged hydrotalcite with zero effluent discharge. The iodate-exchanged hydrotalcite produced is useful as iodizing agent. The invention further relates to utilization of alkaline effluent generated in the process of ion exchange of iodate into SHT so as to fully recycle the residual iodate anion and also utilize the alkali generated in the process for production of additional quantities of iodate through reaction with iodine crystals followed by electrochemical oxidation to obtain pure aqueous solution of iodate salt which can be reused for preparation of the stable iodizing agent. The process gives zero effluent discharge hence economical.
US08241478B2	Arrangement of ion exchange material within an electrodeionization apparatus An electrodeionization apparatus is provided comprising an ion-concentrating compartment partially bounded by an anion permeable membrane and also partially bounded by a cation permeable membrane, and a first ion exchange material domain disposed within the ion-concentrating compartment, wherein the first ion exchange material domain is contiguous with at least a portion of an ion-concentrating compartment side surface of one of the anion permeable membrane and the cation permeable membrane, and is spaced apart from the other one of the one of the anion permeable membrane and the cation permeable membrane. In the case where the one of the anion permeable membrane and the cation permeable membrane, having the at least a portion of an ion-concentrating compartment side surface with which the first ion exchange material domain is contiguous, is an anion permeable membrane, the first ion exchange material domain is an anion exchange material predominant domain. In the case where the one of the anion permeable membrane and the cation permeable membrane, having the at least a portion of an ion-concentrating compartment side surface with which the first ion exchange material domain is contiguous, is a cation permeable membrane, the first ion exchange material domain is a cation exchange material predominant domain.
US08241477B2	Double chamber tank for horizontal gel electrophoresis A tank apparatus (10) for horizontal electrophoresis that comprises a base member (12) having at least first and second independent receptacles (16, 18) for accommodating buffer solution. Each of the receptacles comprises an inlet (28, 28′) for allowing communication with the external environment. A cover member (14) covers at least the first and second receptacles, thereby forming first and second buffer chambers. The cover member comprising suitable openings (40, 42) for allowing a portion of an electrophoresis gel cassette to be inserted therethrough, such that the electrophoresis gel is in communication with the contents of each of the first and second receptacles. Each of a pair of electrodes (33, 33′) is situated in one of each of the first and second receptacles, wherein the electrodes are connectable to an electrical power supply.
US08241469B2	Reactor cover and hydrogen generating apparatus and fuel cell power generation system having the same A reactor cover, and a hydrogen generating apparatus and a fuel cell power generation system having the reactor cover are disclosed. The reactor cover includes a base panel; a control unit, which is coupled to one side of the base panel, and which regulates a reaction for generating the hydrogen; a circuit pattern buried in the base panel in electrical connection with the control unit; and an electrode pad formed on the other side of the base panel in electrical connection with the circuit pattern. In the reactor cover, the base panel and the control unit may be integrated, to eliminate unnecessary wiring, prevent short-circuiting, and consequently provide a reactor cover that can be fabricated and used more easily.
US08241468B2	Method and apparatus for cathodic arc deposition of materials on a substrate A method for applying a coating by a cathodic is provided. The method includes the steps of: a) providing a cathodic arc coater that includes a power source and utilizes a disk-shaped cathode, the cathode having an evaporative surface extending between a first end surface and a second end surface, wherein the evaporative surface has an area; b) determining a maximum acceptable power density for the evaporative surface; and c) applying a magnitude of electrical current from the power source to the cathode, wherein the electrical current magnitude divided by the area is equal to or less than the maximum acceptable power density for the evaporative surface.
US08241467B2	Making a cathode structure for OLEDs A method of making a cathode structure for an OLED provided over organic layers includes evaporating a first layer over the organic layers, such layer including a metal or metal alloy whose work function is less that 4.0 eV, or a material including an electron-injecting dopant and a reactive metal; depositing at least one second layer of an inorganic material over the first layer to form a buffer structure with the first layer; and sputtering a protective layer of a metal or metal alloy provided over the buffer structure.
US08241463B2	Wet-end manufacturing process for bitumen-impregnated fiberboard A process for manufacturing fiberboard by preparing a fiber slurry mixture including containing cellulose fibers and water then atomizing a liquid bituminous material, such as asphalt. The liquid bituminous material is atomized by mixing it with a pressurized gas, such as compressed air, forming a mist comprising droplets of bituminous material having a diameter between 20 microns and 50 microns. A water spray solidifies the bituminous material droplets thereby forming bituminous particles which fall into the fiber slurry within the spray chamber. From there the slurry is sheared, dewatered, and dried, forming a finished fiberboard.
US08241462B2	Papermaking internal sizing agent and use thereof To provide a papermaking internal sizing agent capable of efficiently imparting sizing performance even in neutral papermaking which uses calcium carbonate as filler, and uses no aluminum sulfate or uses a small amount of aluminum sulfate, and also provide a paper or a paperboard obtained by using the papermaking internal sizing agent. The papermaking internal sizing agent comprises as an effective ingredient an amphoteric copolymer having hydrophobic groups and cationic groups, at least a part of the cationic groups being quaternized. Preferably, the amphoteric copolymer is obtained by polymerizing monomer ingredients that it essentially contain a hydrophobic monomer (A), a cationic monomer (B), and an anionic monomer (C) and that an anion equivalent of the monomer (C) is 0.1 to 90% of a cation equivalent of the monomer (B), in which a rate of quaternizing of the cationic groups is not less than 40% by mole. The paper or the paperboard contains the above papermaking internal sizing agent.
US08241461B1	Wet strength resins derived from renewable resources The present invention relates to cationic polymers, such as polyaminoamide epichlorohydrin (PAE), that are derived from renewable resources and can be used to produce wet strength resins suitable for a variety of applications, such as in absorbent paper articles.
US08241456B2	Method for producing electric-wave-transmissible transferring member A method for producing an electric-wave-transmissible transferring member capable of expressing a metallic luster pattern having a sharp outline. A peel layer (3) is formed on a base sheet (2) throughout the entire surface of the sheet. Next, a water-soluble pattern layer (4) is partially formed thereon. Next, an electric-wave-transmissible metallic luster layer (5) is formed thereon and throughout the entire surface thereof. Next, a protective layer (6) is formed thereon and throughout the entire surface thereof, or is formed thereon and, partially, in the region where the water-soluble pattern layer (4) is not formed. Next, the workpiece is subjected to a heating treatment and then a water-washing treatment to peel and remove the water-soluble pattern layer (4), and the electric-wave-transmissible metallic luster layer (5) and the protective layer (6) formed over the layer (4). Next, an adhesive layer (7) is wholly or partially formed on the workpiece.
US08241453B2	Method and apparatus for manufacturing fibre-reinforced hoses The object of the invention is a method for building hoses reinforced with spirally laid fibers, where the hose under construction (3) undergoes both rotation and advancing motion relative to the laying head (12), and where the reinforcing fibers are unwound from drums (14). The drums (14) are rotated about two axes, the first axis being the principal axis of the drums (A) and the second axis (B) being nearly parallel with the direction in which the fibers are unwound, where the direction of rotation of the drums (14) about the second axis (B) is the same as the direction in which the hose under construction (3) is rotated. The apparatus for carrying out the method comprises a laying head (12) and a drum support platform (15), where the hose under construction (3) undergoes both rotation and advancing motion relative to the laying head (12), and where the reinforcing fibers (10) are unwound from drums (14) through a circular fiber guide (1) The further object of the invention is a method for building hoses reinforced with spirally laid fibers, wherein the reinforcing fibers (10) are laid on the hose surface through a rotating self-adjusting circular fiber guide (2) arranged substantially coaxially with the hose. The invention also relates to an apparatus for carrying out the above method.
US08241449B2	Method for producing ceramic body A laminated body includes, in sequence, a base layer mainly composed of a ceramic material and a glass material, a first constraining layer that is primarily made of a ceramic material that is not sintered at a temperature at which the base layer is sintered, a second constraining layer primarily made of a ceramic material and a glass material that are sintered at the temperature at which the base layer is sintered, and a third constraining layer primarily made of a ceramic material that is not sintered at the temperature at which the base layer is sintered. The laminated body is subsequently fired at the temperature at which the base layer is sintered. The first, second, and third constraining layers are removed from the fired laminated body to provide a ceramic body that is a sinter of the base layer. After the firing, adhesion between the base layer and the first constraining layer and adhesion between the second constraining layer and the first constraining layer are different from each other.
US08241448B2	Film adhesive bonding apparatus and process The invention relates to a method of bonding two members together utilizing a stack of solid film adhesive and a layer of solid film adhesive, both disposed between the members. A pressure-applying device may be utilized to apply low pressure to force the members together. The pressure may force the stack to compress and expand in varying directions in order to substantially remove air-bubbles between the layer and one of the members. A heating device may be utilized to change the layer and the stack into liquid states in order to bond the members together with a void-free bond-line.
US08241446B2	Thermoplastic single ply protective covering Methods of making a single ply protective covering and of installing such a covering are disclosed. The method of making includes (a) providing a single ply thermoplastic roofing membrane, and (b) coating the single ply thermoplastic roofing membrane on its bottom surface with a 1-50 mil layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive mixture consisting essentially of polyisobutylene and at least one polymer comprising conjugated diene monomers. The method of installing includes (a) providing a single ply thermoplastic roofing membrane, (b) cutting the single ply thermoplastic roofing membrane to a selected size, (c) positioning the single ply thermoplastic roofing membrane on a portion of a roof, and (d) bonding the membrane to the roof.
US08241443B1	Electrically initiated security device and system incorporating same An electrically initiated security device includes a first energetic sheet, a second energetic sheet, and a corrugated energetic sheet disposed between the first energetic sheet and the second energetic sheet. A first surface of the corrugated energetic sheet defines at least one channel and a second surface of the corrugated energetic sheet defines at least one channel. The electrically initiated security device further includes a first constituent portion disposed in the at least one channel defined by the first surface and a second constituent portion disposed in the at least one channel defined by the second surface. The first constituent portion and the second constituent portion, when mixed, comprise an energetic material.
US08241441B2	Rapid thermal treatment for coloring surgical needles An apparatus for thermally treating and coloring a plurality of curved suture needles. The apparatus includes a conveyer for transferring the plurality of curved suture needles from a source of curved suture needles to a receiver, a housing positioned adjacent the conveyer, the housing having a first end, a second end, and an opening running from the first end to the second end, the opening aligned with the conveyer to enable the plurality of curved suture needles to pass therethrough, a heat source located within the housing for heating the plurality of curved suture needles as the plurality of curved suture needles are transferred by the conveyer from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing and a system for providing a gas mixture containing a fractional concentration of oxygen to oxidize and colorize the surfaces of the plurality of curved suture needles as the plurality of suture needles pass through the housing. A process for thermally treating and coloring a plurality of curved suture needles to colorize and enhance the stiffness and yield moment of the curved suture needles is also provided.
US08241434B2	Dishwasher with high voltage DC motor A dishwasher which uses a high voltage DC motor to drive a pump. The dishwasher cleans dishes and cooking and eating utensils by the use of a high pressure water spray driven by an electric pump which circulates water. The DC motor may have a built in motor controller to allow the motor to have a soft start, multiple speeds, smooth ramping between speeds and load control. This allows for an energy efficient system and noise prevention.
US08241432B2	Solar wafer cleaning systems, apparatus and methods Solar wafer clean systems, methods and apparatus capable of receiving wafer combs that have been treated with a wire-saw cutting device and providing final clean solar wafers while the wafers are on the beam (before or without any pre-cleaning) are disclosed. Embodiments of methods and apparatus produce clean solar wafers while attached to the beam without the need for a pre-clean step or tool. As such certain of the embodiments provide efficient and cost-effective cleaning of solar wafers on the beam that is also economically viable on a commercial scale.
US08241430B2	Directional control method for dual brush robotic pool cleaners A method for accurately controlling the directional and turning movement of a self-propelled robotic pool cleaner while cleaning a pool includes the steps of propelling the pool cleaner in a first direction along a generally straight path from a first sidewall toward an opposing sidewall of the pool, wherein said pool cleaner is propelled to a position in the pool corresponding to a distance greater than the midpoint between the first sidewall and the opposing sidewall and before contacting the opposing sidewall of the pool; stopping the pool cleaner at the position and pivoting the pool cleaner to a predetermined angular change in direction; and reversing direction and resuming propulsion of the pool cleaner, wherein the pool cleaner moves in a second direction along a generally straight path that is angularly displaced from the first direction.
US08241427B1	Floor maintenance tool and method A floor tool is provided, and includes a handle with first and second opposite ends through which a longitudinal axis of the handle extends, and a mop head coupled to the second end of the handle. In some embodiments, a fluid container is coupled to and carried by the handle at a location between the first and second ends of the handle. The fluid container can have a center of mass offset from the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, a portion of the handle is located between the fluid container and the first end of the handle, and is offset from the longitudinal axis more than center of mass of the fluid reservoir. The floor tool can also have a valve coupled to the handle and having a gap into which a length of conduit extending from the fluid container can be laterally inserted. A valve-actuating trigger can be coupled to the handle for rotation, such that the trigger pivot point is closer to the second end of the handle than the terminal end of the trigger squeezed by a user.
US08241421B2	Epitaxial wafer and production method thereof The epitaxial layer defects generated from voids of a silicon substrate wafer containing added hydrogen are suppressed by a method for producing an epitaxial wafer by: growing a silicon crystal by the Czochralski method comprising adding hydrogen and nitrogen to a silicon melt and growing from the silicon melt a silicon crystal having a nitrogen concentration of from 3×1013 cm−3 to 3×1014 cm−3, preparing a silicon substrate by machining the silicon crystal, and forming an epitaxial layer at the surface of the silicon substrate.
US08241419B2	Fiber cement board with modified fiber A building material product comprising a cementitious binder, an aggregate and cellulose reinforcing fibers wherein the cellulose reinforcing fibers have been treated with oil which is bound to the fiber by a retention aid. The resulting fiber when included in a fiber cement composite results in improved deflection of the composite at peak loading as well as improved impact strength while maintaining overall board strength.
US08241418B2	Producing method of powder particles by using grinding medium The present invention provides a producing method of powder particles having an average particle diameter on the order of submicrons. Specifically, the producing method is a producing method of powder particles obtained by grinding a product to be ground by using plural grinding media, wherein the grinding media including at least one kind (grinding medium A) having an average particle diameter of 0.01 to 5 times and at least one kind (grinding medium B) having an average particle diameter of 10 to 450 times, with respect to the average particle diameter of the product to be ground before being ground, are used.
US08241417B2	Nanocomposite coating and the method of coating thereof A nanocomposite coating and a method of coating for protecting a product with the nanocomposite coating are presented. Firstly, the nanocomposite coating is prepared, wherein the nanocomposite coating is formed by mixing 22.5˜49.5% nanometer inorganic oxide gel made by a sol-gel method, 45˜74.25% organic solvent and 1˜10% nanometer powder together. Next, the nanocomposite coating is coated onto surfaces of the product evenly by way of spraying, dipping or roll-to-rolling. Lastly, the product coated with the nanocomposite coating is subjected to a room temperature or a heating environment lower than 170 degrees centigrade to make the nanocomposite coating dry for forming nanometer protective films on the surfaces of the product.
US08241416B2	Inorganic waterborne coating agent and its aqueous solution To provide an inorganic waterborne coating agent and its aqueous solution: wherein, with the surface of the base material highly-hydrophilizated, the contaminant such as oil-based contaminant and inorganic dust adhered onto the surface of the base material can be removed easily with water, and at the same time, the antistatic effect can be achieved due to its dust-repelling property; which can be applied by anyone (non-skilled) with ease without considering the base material being organic or inorganic, compared with conventional coating agents, such as photocatalyst and polysilazane-based glass coating agent that have limited range of use; and which has little limit in conditions of use, and is inexpensive and applicable to any places, thereby securing the original goal of antifouling property. To provide an inorganic waterborne coating agent comprising: alkaline colloidal silica, a sodium phosphate compound and a potassium phosphate mixture, and boric acid.
US08241415B2	Wax formulations for lignocellulosic products, methods of their manufacture and products formed therefrom The present invention is directed to a wax formulation for use in lignocellulosic products, which impart improved properties such as dimensional stability when the products are exposed to moisture. The wax formulations include a wax and a surface tension/interfacial tension reducing agent comprising one or more of a fluorinated compound having two to six carbon atoms, an alkylphenol alkoxylate or an ethoxylated acetylenic diol.
US08241413B2	Air filter system of a motor vehicle An air filter system of a motor vehicle has an air filter housing with a housing part of a moisture-sensitive plastic material and an air passage section with a circumferentially extending passage wall, wherein the passage wall of the air passage section is integrally formed of identical material on the housing part of the air filter housing. A mass air flow sensor is arranged in the air passage section. A plastic insert of a moisture-insensitive plastic material is disposed on an inner side of the passage wall of the air passage section and lines the passage wall.
US08241412B2	Filter inspection with a gas mixing apparatus A gas mixing apparatus including a chamber, a filter, a gas transmitting unit and a porous layer is provided. The chamber includes a gas inlet and a gas outlet. The filter, which has at least one opening, is disposed at the gas outlet of the chamber. An environmental gas outside the chamber is filtered and becomes a clean gas after flowing through the filter into the chamber. The gas transmitting unit is connected to the opening of the filter to transmit a gas to be mixed into the chamber through the opening. The porous layer is disposed at the gas outlet. The gas to be mixed is mixed with the clean gas and leaves the chamber through the porous layer.
US08241401B2	Apparatus and method for producing purified hydrogen gas by a pressure swing adsorption processes The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for producing purified hydrogen gas by a pressure swing adsorption process. Further the invention relates to detecting an operating life of adsorbents in a adsorption tower. The method and the apparatus have a gas supply unit for adding an inert gas to an unpurified hydrogen gas and a detector for measuring an inert gas in a purified hydrogen gas discharged from the adsorption tower.
US08241398B2	Method and apparatus for the enhanced removal of aerosols and vapor phase contaminants from a gas stream The invention provides methods and apparatuses for removing aerosols and, in some cases, vapor phase contaminants, such as mercury, from a gas stream. One method is directed to the removal of additional aerosols from a gas stream from which aerosols have previously been removed by using a screen in combination with a primary aerosol collection device. Another method is directed to the removal of both aerosols and vapor phase contaminants by using a sorbent in combination with a screen. Another method is directed to the removal of vapor phase contaminants by using a catalyst to convert the contaminant to a form that is more easily removed from the gas stream and optionally injecting a chemical to increase the rate of conversion. The invention also provides various apparatuses for use in performing the various methods of the invention.
US08241396B2	Removal of smut, dust and exhaust gas particles with particle catch arrangement using static electric field This inventions provides a method for the removal of smut, fine dust and exhaust gas particles from polluted air including providing a particle catch arrangement with a charged surface, the particle catch arrangement being arranged to generate a static electric field, wherein the electric field is at least 0.2 kV/m. The invention further provides a particle catch arrangement including a surface that can be charged, further including a generator arranged to generate charge to the surface that can be charged and to generate a static electric field of at least 0.2 kV/m, wherein the particle catch arrangement is part of or integrated with an object including street furniture.
US08241395B2	Glass-ceramic membranes Disclosed are processes for preparing conductive glass-ceramic membranes and methods of using them in hydrogen or proton separation.
US08241392B2	Gas phase method for producing nanometric particles The invention relates to a gas phase method for producing nanometric particles in a reactor for producing particles in a gas phase, in which there is an interaction between a reaction flow and an energy flow. This method comprises the following steps: a step for coupling a device for producing gaseous chlorides with this reactor, a step for producing gaseous chlorides from a base precursor in the form of powders, and a step for injecting such a reaction flow into the reactor.
US08241388B2	Soil additive The invention is a process for treatment of brown grease, where the brown grease comprises water, food solids and free-oil. This process starts with the collection of the brown grease into a container. The brown grease's pH is adjusted with a chemical treatment to produce an adjusted brown grease phase. To the adjusted brown grease phase an anionic copolymer treatment mixture is added along with a cationic copolymer to form a reaction mixture. The reaction mixture reacts for a period of time, and during this time wastewater is discharged from the reaction mixture to produce resulting solids. The resulting solids are then transferred from the container for disposal or are processed further into a fuel or soil additive.
US08241386B2	Apparatus for filtering gases and method of manufacturing same A filter element may be provided. The filter element may include a fitting; and a filtering member coupled to the fitting, the filtering member may include a plurality of flutes defined in an outer surface of the filtering member.
US08241375B1	Method for preparing chemical mechanical polishing slurry composition A method for preparing a chemical mechanical polishing slurry composition comprises the steps of preparing an aqueous iron salt solution by admixing an iron salt and cooled water of 5° C. or less; preparing an oxide containing silicon and iron as an additive by admixing and stirring a silicon salt and the aqueous iron salt solution for carrying out a reaction of the silicon salt and the aqueous iron salt solution to form an additive solution; and mixing the additive solution with at least one abrasive, at least one oxidizing agent and optionally at least one additional component to form the chemical mechanical polishing slurry composition.
US08241374B2	Fluidized bed system for single step reforming for the production of hydrogen The present invention discloses a fluidized bed system for the single step reforming technology for the production of hydrogen. Single step reforming combines the steam methane reforming, water gas shift, and carbon dioxide removal in a single step process of hydrogen generation. In the present invention, to address the heat transfer and the replenishment issues associated with single step reforming, the sorbent particles are fluidized. This fluidization allows the sorbent particles to be regenerated and consequently allows the optimal operating conditions for single step reforming to be maintained.
US08241371B2	Method of creating crystalline substances Process for preparing a cocrystal of an active substance and a cocrystal former, the process involving precipitating the active substance and the cocrystal former together from solution or suspension, in the presence of a supercritical or near-critical fluid, in particular using a GAS, SAS, SEDS or SAS-EM process. The invention also provides a cocrystal prepared using such a process, and its use as a seed crystal in a subsequent process for precipitating a cocrystal of an active substance and a cocrystal former.
US08241366B2	Motion inducing reverse shoulder assembly One embodiment of the present invention relates to a reverse shoulder assembly. Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a reverse shoulder assembly method of use. In one example, a reverse shoulder assembly of the present invention may be provided such that the reverse shoulder assembly alters the abduction force created by a patient's deltoid to a forward flexion force. In one example, a reverse shoulder assembly of the present invention may be provided such that the reverse shoulder assembly alters the abduction force created by a patient's deltoid to an external rotation force. In one example, a reverse shoulder assembly of the present invention may be provided such that the reverse shoulder assembly alters the abduction force created by a patient's deltoid to an external rotation force and a forward flexion force.
US08241362B2	Lumbar disc replacement implant for posterior implantation with dynamic spinal stabilization device and method The invention consists of disc replacement implant for the lumbar spine designed for insertion into the disc space via a posterior approach. The implant can be stabilized in the disc space by connection to the vertebra or can be connected to dynamic spinal stabilization device consisting of interconnected bullets nested in a spring nested in a woven sleeve. By controlling the limits of elongation and compression the device prevents movement beyond normal physiological limits. In the midrange of movement flexibility is allowed. A method for using the dynamic spinal stabilization device is also provided.
US08241356B2	Nasal valve treatment method and apparatus A method and apparatus for treating a nasal valve condition including surgically forming an access path to create a pocket on a side of the patient's nose. The pocket is positioned between a soft tissue layer and opposing surfaces of upper and lower cartilages of the nose. The pocket spans a junction between the upper and lower cartilages. An implant is placed through the access path into the pocket with a length oriented to span the junction. A delivery system for placement of the implant includes a surgical tool for forming the access path and for delivering the implant into the access path.
US08241355B2	Haptic for accommodating intraocular lens A haptic is provided for use in an accommodating intraocular lens. The haptic has multiple filaments, each connected to the edge of the optic at one end. Each filament has a shape that conforms to an equatorial region of the capsular bag. The haptic couples the forces exerted by the capsular bag of the eye during accommodation radially to the edge of the optic, produce a diametric expansion or compression of the optic. This diametric motion distorts the optic, producing a change in any or all of the anterior radius, the posterior radius, and the thickness. These changes affect the power of the lens and/or location of the image. The haptic may optionally have a thin membrane joining the filaments at the optic end, and may optionally have a connecting ring that joins the filaments at the end opposite that of the optic.
US08241354B2	Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens to increase pseudo-accommodation by utilizing pupil dynamics In one aspect, the present invention provides an ophthalmic lens (e.g., an IOL) that includes an optic having an anterior surface and a posterior surface disposed about an optical axis. At least one of the surfaces (e.g., the anterior surface) has a profile characterized by superposition of a base profile and an auxiliary profile. The auxiliary profile can include an inner region, an outer region and a transition region between the inner and the outer regions, where an optical path difference across the transition region (i.e., the optical path difference between the inner and the outer radial boundaries of the transition region) corresponds to a non-integer fraction (e.g., ½) of a design wavelength (e.g., a wavelength of about 550 nm).
US08241351B2	Adjustable partial annuloplasty ring and mechanism therefor Apparatus is provided that is configured to be implanted in a body of a subject, comprising an implant structure having first and second portions thereof, a spool coupled to the implant structure in a vicinity of the first portion thereof, and a flexible member coupled at a first end thereof to the spool, and not attached at a second end thereof to the spool. The flexible member, in response to rotation of the spool in a first direction thereof, is configured to be wound around the spool, and, responsively, to pull the second end of the flexible member toward the first end of the implant structure, and responsively to draw the first and second portions of the implant structure toward each other. Other embodiments are also described.
US08241350B2	Anchoring device for an endoluminal prosthesis An endoluminal prosthesis including a radially expandable frame and an anchoring member. The anchoring member includes a first arm attached to a first strut of the frame and a second arm attached to a second adjacent strut of the frame. The first arm is joined to the second arm to form a vessel engaging end that, together with at least a portion of the first arm and second arm, is directed toward a central axis of the frame in the frame's collapsed configuration.
US08241348B2	Intravascular stent for treating vulnerable plaque and method of use An expandable stent is implanted in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen for rupturing a fibrous cap to controllably release vulnerable plaque. The invention provides for a an intravascular stent having a plurality of cylindrical rings connected by links. The stent includes struts and links of varying strengths about the circumference of the stent. The weaker struts and links require less force to open and, hence, may apply more stress to rupture the fibrous cap while the stronger struts and links protect the healthy portions of the body lumen. In another embodiment, the stent may include stress concentrators positioned on outer surfaces of the links. The stress concentrators are aligned with the fibrous cap prior to stent expansion so that upon stent expansion, the stress concentrators induce stress to rupture the fibrous cap, thereby releasing the vulnerable plaque.
US08241347B2	Medical supporting implant, in particular stent A medical supporting implant, in particular a stent, comprises a tubular base body which is made up of bendable struts (2), such that at node points (4) of at least two struts (2), the bendable struts (2) form an acute angle (W) to one another which angle becomes larger on dilatation of the implant with plastic deformation of the struts (2) at the node point (4). At least a portion of the struts (2) between the plastic deformation areas (4) is provided with a telescoping ratchet mechanism (R) for irreversible lengthening of the respective struts (2) on dilatation.
US08241346B2	Endovascular graft and method of delivery A flexible low profile delivery system for delivery of an expandable intracorporeal device, specifically, an endovascular graft, which has at least one belt circumferentially disposed about the device in a constraining configuration. The belt is released by a release member, such as a release wire, by retracting the wire from looped ends of the belt. Multiple belts can be used and can be released sequentially so as to control the order of release and placement of the endovascular graft. An outer protective sheath may be disposed about the endovascular graft while in a constrained state which must first be refracted or otherwise removed prior to release of the graft from a constrained state. The delivery system can be configured for delivery over a guiding device such as a guidewire. The delivery system can also be configured for delivery of bifurcated intracorporeal devices.
US08241345B2	Stent delivery system A stent delivery system comprises a stent having a first connector disposed on a stent proximal end, and a pusher wire having a second connector disposed on a pusher wire distal end, wherein the first and second connectors are configured to releasably attach to each other.
US08241341B2	Pedicle screws and methods of using the same Pedicle screws that can include a pedicle screw body, housing, plurality of clamps, rod, and set screw are disclosed herein. The clamps may be positioned side by side inside the lower portion of the housing. When the rod and set screw are provided in the housing, the set screw applies a force on the rod and the rod engages the plurality of clamps, causing the clamps to frictionally engage a head of the pedicle screw between the clamps.
US08241331B2	Spinal implant having a post-operative adjustable dimension A spinal implant including first spinal attachment member for attaching to a first spinal portion, second spinal attachment member for attaching to a second spinal portion, and a post-implantation variable dimension device disposed between the first and second spinal attachment members, which is operable after completing surgery in which said spinal implant was installed into a patient, to cause relative movement between the first and second spinal attachment members.
US08241325B2	Access and closure device and method Devices and methods for accessing and closing vascular sites are disclosed. Self-sealing closure devices and methods are disclosed. A device that can make both steeply sloping and flat access paths into a vascular lumen is disclosed. The device can also form arteriotomies with sections cleaved between a vessel's intima and adventitia. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.
US08241323B2	Tissue closing device A tissue closing device for closing an opening penetrating a tissue membrane in a living body includes a closure configured to close the opening and a device configured to deploy the closure. The closure includes a seal portion and a deformation portion for covering the opening and tissue membrane surrounding the opening from opposite sides, and a connecting portion connecting the seal portion and the deformation portion. The arrangement device includes a storing member for storing the deformation portion and supporting the connecting member, and a hand-operated portion on the proximal side of the storing member. The storing member includes a take-out port which is openable from a closed state. The deformation portion is discharged exterior of the storing member by opening the take-out port.
US08241321B2	Surgical instrument constructed by electric discharge machining A microsurgical instrument is constructed to an extremely small scale with serrations formed on opposed operative microsurgical surfaces of the instrument by electric discharge machining.
US08241310B2	Urethral catheterless radical prostatectomy A method and device for facilitating the anastomotic healing of a patient after a radical prostatectomy surgical procedure, without a urethral catheter, comprising the steps of performing a radical prostatectomy, fixedly positioning a splinting element between the urethra and the bladder, across the urethral opening, placing the splinting element during the performing of the radical prostatectomy and prior to surgical closure. The fixed positioning is effected from a position within the bladder with anchoring the splinting element in position relative to the interior of the bladder, setting a separate urine drainage tube, and removing the splinting element, after anastomotic healing, with a retrieval element on the splinting element or with dissolving of the splinting element.
US08241305B2	Method for repairing a meniscal tear A device for implanting a suture. The device includes an elongated shaft that extends from the main body and has a distal end that includes a pointed tissue piercing tip. A first suture support is mounted to the distal end. The first suture support has a first opening and is movable between a retracted position where the first suture support does not extend from the distal end and an extended position where the first suture support does extend from the distal end. A first suture capturing device is mounted to the distal end and is aligned with the first suture support. The first suture capturing device is movable between a retracted position in which it does not extend from the distal end and an extended position in which it does extend from the distal end. The first suture capturing device extends within the first opening of the first suture support when in the extended position.
US08241303B2	Surgical staple remover A surgical staple remover includes a first elongated element having a handle on one end and an upward sloped jaw element on the other end, wherein the jaw element comprises a pair of parallel jaws; a housing running a length of the first elongated element; an interior element within the housing comprising a planar element having a hook element; a second elongated element pivotally connected to the first elongated element and the interior element, such that moving the second elongated element results in moving the hook element and the jaw element while retracting the interior element, resulting in the hook element deforming the surgical staple so as to remove it and moving the surgical staple towards the housing; and a strip element located on top of the jaw element, such that when the hook element moves the removed surgical staple, the removed surgical staple is moved under the strip element.
US08241302B2	Biopsy targeting cube with angled interface A biopsy system comprises a control module, a localization assembly, a biopsy device, and a targeting cube. The biopsy device comprises a probe and other components, which selectively couple with a targeting cube that is configured to selectively couple with a grid plate having apertures for receiving the targeting cube. The targeting cube comprises a body defined by faces. The targeting cube further comprises guide holes that originate and terminate at the faces and pass through the body of the targeting cube to provide passageways through the targeting cube. The faces of the targeting cube comprise a tapered profile from a proximal end to a distal end. The tapered profile of the targeting cube may be created by the faces themselves or by protruding elements from the faces. The body of the targeting cube and/or the protruding elements may be at least partially comprised of an elastomeric material.
US08241298B2	Methods and devices for delivering and affixing tissue scaffolds Methods and devices are provided for delivering and affixing tissue replacements. In one embodiment, a tissue scaffold can be delivered into a patient through a cannula to a cavity formed at a defect site in tissue, e.g., cartilage. A delivery shaft can be used to deliver the scaffold through the cannula, and a loading device can help load the scaffold onto the delivery shaft. A delivery guide device can position and temporarily hold the scaffold within the cavity. The delivery guide device can guide one or more surgical instruments to the scaffold to affix the scaffold within the cavity, e.g., to bone underlying the scaffold, using at least one securing mechanism.
US08241297B2	Surgical drill guide for shape memory clamps A surgical drill guide for guiding a drill bit and limiting the depth of holes drilled by is disclosed. In some embodiments the surgical drill guide includes the following: a body including a drill bit entry side and a tissue contact side opposite the drill bit entry side, the drill bit entry side having first and second surfaces that are offset from one another, the tissue contact side including a tissue contact surface that is defined by one or more tissue contact points; drill bit guide holes extending from the drill bit entry side of the first and second surfaces to the tissue contact side of the body; and implant storage holes defined in one of the plurality of sides of the body for storing shape memory implants during shipment of the system, the implant storage holes being spaced a distance commensurate to dimensions of the shape memory implant.
US08241296B2	Use of micro and miniature position sensing devices for use in TKA and THA A system for assisting in a surgical process, comprising: (a) a surgical device taken from a group consisting of a surgical tool and a surgical implant; (b) a positional sensor carried by the surgical device, the positional sensor including a wireless transmitter and associated circuitry for transmitting sensor data from the transmitter; and (c) a computer system including a wireless receiver and signal conditioning circuitry and hardware for converting sensor data received by the wireless receiver into at least one of (i) audio feedback of positional information for the surgical device and (ii) visual feedback of positional information for the surgical device.
US08241292B2	High tibial osteotomy system A cutting block for use in a bone osteotomy procedure includes a first cutting guide surface, a second cutting guide surface, and a third cutting guide surface. The first, second, and third cutting guide surfaces are adapted to be temporarily affixed to a bone having a first side and a second side such that the first cutting guide surface is disposed on the first side of the bone, and such that the second cutting guide surface and third cutting guide surface are disposed on the second side of the bone forming an angle therebetween.
US08241286B2	Method for implanting a hip fracture nail system An instrument system is provided for positioning an internal fixation prosthesis and guiding a cannulated bone drill during a surgical, radioscopic procedure for the repair of a fractured bone of a patient. The instrument system includes a target wire, a handle formed from a radio translucent material having a target hole for guided passage of the target wire along a target axis. The target axis coincides with the intersection of a first plane and a second plane orthogonal to the first plane. The instrument system also includes a nose component attached to an end of the handle and removably connectable to the prosthesis. The nose component includes an alignment sight formed from a radio-opaque material. When the prosthesis is connected to the nose component and the target wire is positioned through the target hole along the target axis, the image of the guide wire may be radioscopically viewed along a first line of sight contained in the first plane to bisect the image of the alignment device, thereby providing a first visual reference to the user for directing the first guide wire into the desired portion of the bone while holding the prosthesis in a desired position relative to the bone.
US08241285B2	Method and clamping apparatus for external fixation and stabilization Clamping devices and methods for external fixation systems include a post component having a yaw axis and a clamping system secured to the post component and rotatable about the yaw axis. The clamping system includes a outer jaw and a inner jaw having an inner surface facing the outer jaw. The outer and inner jaws together form an opening for receiving a fixation element of the external fixation system. The inner jaw and outer jaw have a roll axis alignable with a longitudinal axis of the fixation element. The clamping system and post component are rotatable about the roll axis. The inner jaw also includes a cylindrical outer-facing surface. The devices also include a base component having a cylindrical concave surface having a pitch axis. The concave surface of the base component interfaces with the cylindrical outer facing component on the inner jaw. The outer and inner jaws being rotatable relative to the base and the post component about the pitch axis.
US08241283B2	Dual durometer insulating boot for electrosurgical forceps An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end and movable about a pivot from a first position and disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue, a movable handle that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another. At least one jaw member conducts electrical energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on an exterior surface of at least one jaw member and about the pivot, and includes a first longitudinal portion made from a high durometer material and a second longitudinal portion made from a low durometer material. The high durometer material may operably retain the flexible insulating boot atop the proximal ends of the jaw members.
US08241282B2	Vessel sealing cutting assemblies An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto the shaft including jaw members at a distal end thereof. The shaft includes a longitudinal axis defined therethrough and the jaw members are adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal. A movable handle is included that is rotatable about a pivot to force a drive assembly to move the jaw members between the first and second positions. The pivot is located a fixed distance above the longitudinal axis. A cutting assembly is included having at least one blade element disposed within one of the jaw members. The blade element is selectively moveable from a first recessed position within the jaw member to a second extended position for cutting tissue. The cutting assembly also includes a remote actuator which reciprocates a camming element to move the blade element between the first and second positions.
US08241281B2	Bipolar electrosurgical probe having insulated overlapping conductive elements A bipolar electrosurgical probe includes electrodes separated by an insulation member. One end of an electrode is inserted into an aperture of the other electrode. An insulation material is disposed between e.g., injected into, a space between a bottom surface of one electrode and a top surface of another electrode so that at least a portion of the insulation member is disposed between overlapping ends of the electrodes.
US08241280B2	Multifilar flexible rotary shaft and medical instruments incorporating the same A multifilar flexible rotary shaft includes a plurality of individual filaments which are not wound around each other or around a central core, a loose ensemble of filaments. The input ends of each filament are coupled to each other and the output ends of each filament are coupled to each other. A loose ensemble of N filaments can transmit N times the torque of a single filament, and will have N times the torsional stiffness of a single filament, while retaining the minimum radius of operation of a single filament. Since a loose ensemble of filaments does not have any appreciable contact forces among the filaments (because they are not forcibly twisted together), there is no appreciable internal friction or hysteresis. The filaments should be no more than loosely twisted together, if at all. Several practical applications of the invention are also disclosed.
US08241278B2	Laparoscopic apparatus for performing electrosurgical procedures A system and apparatus for irrigating a surgical site during an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The system includes a hand piece having an elongated housing connected to a multi-lumen tube extending proximally from the housing and having an irrigation tube for delivering irrigation fluid, a suction tube for withdrawing irrigation fluid, and electrical wiring, a first controls for adjusting flow of irrigation fluid within the irrigation tube and second controls for adjusting flow of irrigation fluid within the suction tube. A valve cassette is connected to the multi-lumen tube, which includes an irrigation valve configured to control the flow within the irrigation tube and a suction valve configured to control the flow within the suction tube. A hardware control module controls the irrigation valve and the suction valve based on control signals from the first and second controls.
US08241276B2	RF ablation device with jam-preventing electrical coupling member The inventive ablation element comprises an elongated cannula having a proximal end and a distal end. The cannula defines an internal lumen within the cannula and a cannula axis. A plurality of conductors contained within the lumen, each of the conductors has a proximal end proximate the proximal end of the cannula, and a distal end proximate the distal end of the cannula. A plurality of ablation stylets each has a proximal end and a distal end, and each coupled at the respective proximal end of the stylet to the distal end of a respective conductor, the stylets comprise a deflectable material, the conductors together with their respective stylets being mounted for axial movement. A trocar point defined proximate the distal end of the cannula. A deflection surface positioned between the trocar point and the proximal end of the cannula, the deflection surface being configured and positioned to deflect, in response to axial movement of the stylets in a direction from the proximate end of the cannula to the distal end of the cannula, at least some of the stylets laterally with respect to the cannula axis in different directions along substantially straight paths, the paths defining an ablation volume.
US08241273B2	Method and devices for coagulation of tissue Methods and devices described herein facilitate improved treatment of body organs.
US08241270B2	Drug infusion system and method adapted to start during programming cycle Drug infusion system capable of delivering a fluid medication to a patient and method for doing same. An implantable drug delivery device is capable of delivering the fluid medication at a programmable rate to the patient under control of an original programming cycle having a plurality of steps in a plurality of time slots beginning at a starting time. The programming cycle specifies the programmable rate for each of the plurality of steps. An external controller is capable of storing a program representative of the original programming cycle in the implantable drug delivery device at a programming time. The drug infusion system adjusts the implantable drug delivery device so that the original programming cycle will begin at a time during the original programming cycle adjusted for the programming time.
US08241268B2	Self-sealing male luer connector with multiple seals A self-sealing male Luer connector attaches to any standard female Luer valve to open a flow channel between the two. The self-sealing male Luer connector includes a rigid housing having a distal end with a rigid male Luer connector and a proximal end at which a proximal seal is formed. The distal end of the housing includes a valve seat. Located within the housing is a resilient biasing member that biases an actuator into contact with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the male connector. Upon engagement with a female connector, the actuator is moved in the proximal direction to open the distal valve and then the proximal seal. A partial vacuum is formed within the male connector upon disengagement with the female connector that draws any fluids on the external surface of the distal end of the male Luer connector into the male tip.
US08241266B2	Apparatus and method for treatment of ethmoids A method of treating diseased ethmoid sinuses in a patient with a therapeutic agent includes providing an injection device comprising an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal tip or end, and a lumen extending between the distal tip and the proximal end, the proximal end being operatively coupled to a source of the therapeutic agent. The distal tip of the injection device is inserted at least partially within an interior portion of an ethmoid air cell. The therapeutic agent is then injected into the interior portion of the ethmoid air cell using the injection device, the therapeutic agent being delivered via the lumen in the elongate member.
US08241264B2	Method and apparatus for autotransfusion An apparatus for collecting and salvaging blood includes: a first chamber with a below atmosphere internal pressure for continuous collection of blood through an inlet port; a second chamber for receiving blood from the first chamber through a connection channel; a channel valve manually controllable to close the connection channel; and a control for simultaneously controlling the channel valve and the internal pressure of the second chamber between an internal pressure corresponding to the internal pressure of the first chamber and ambient air pressure, wherein the control is arranged to provide an internal pressure corresponding to the internal pressure of the first chamber to the second chamber through a passageway separated from the connection channel for providing blood from the first chamber to the second chamber.
US08241257B2	Pen needle assembly A pen needle assembly is provided herein for use with a medical injector containing an injector body and a reservoir sealed by a septum encased in the injector body. The pen needle assembly includes a hub and a needle fixed to the hub. The hub is formed to be telescopingly mounted onto a distal end of the injector body using a track that accommodates a guide key. When mounting the hub of the pen needle assembly onto the injector body, a first portion of the track is configured to receive the guide key and to guide the guide key in a straight line across sufficient distance to permit a proximal end of the needle to fully pierce through the septum, without rotation of the needle. A second portion of the track is configured to permit the pen needle assembly to be turned with the proximal end of the needle being located proximally of the septum.
US08241255B2	Syringe with needle guard injection device The present invention provides for an injection device including a syringe with a proximal end, a distal end, a needle extending from the distal end, and a plunger inserted into the proximal end. A guard is slidable on the syringe, has a proximal end, a distal end, and is biased from a first position wherein the needle is exposed towards a second position wherein the guard covers the needle. The injection device includes first and second sets of cooperating detents for retaining the guard and syringe in the first and second positions, respectively. A latch member extends proximally from the guard that is engageable by the plunger as the plunger is depressed to release the first set of cooperating detents. Upon release, a spring element biases the guard towards the second position until the second set of cooperating detents engage and secure the guard in the second position.
US08241253B2	Securement system for a medical article A medical article, such as a catheter, is secured to a patient with a support structure and a plurality of attachment/receiving surfaces that permit the catheter to be reoriented in multiple positions relative to the support structure including rotating the catheter about a longitudinal axis. The support structure may be an anchor pad, strap, or other structure. The plurality of attachment/receiving surfaces may be hook and loop type fasteners that are adhered to the catheter body and to the support structure. The placement of the support structure on the patient is not critical as the catheter position is not fixed relative to the support structure.
US08241252B2	Medical catheter assembly including a removable inner sleeve and method of using the same In one embodiment, the assembly is a low profile percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) device and comprises a body, a feeding tube, a cap and an inner sleeve assembly. The body includes a base portion and a sleeve portion, the base portion dimensioned to engage the skin of a patient, the sleeve portion extending upwardly from the base portion. The feeding tube has a distal end adapted to be anchored to the inside of a patient and a proximal end inserted up through the base portion and the sleeve portion. An inner sleeve, sized to engage the inside surface of the feeding tube, is removably inserted through the feeding tube, the inner sleeve having a proximal end to which a tubular fitting is secured. Food and/or medications are dispensed to the patient through the fitting and the inner sleeve and, in this manner, prevent clogging of the feeding tube.
US08241251B2	Gel seal for a surgical trocar apparatus A seal assembly for use with an access device during a surgical procedure includes a housing having a passageway therethrough dimensioned to permit passage of a surgical instrument and being adapted for mounting to a trocar device, and a seal comprising a gel material and being mounted to the housing across the passageway. The seal includes inner seal portions defining an access channel dimensioned to form a substantial sealing relation with an object therethrough and substantially close in the absence of the surgical instrument. The seal preferably comprises a second material having a hardness greater than a hardness of the gel material. The gel material may be selected from the group consisting of urethane gel, silicone gel.
US08241248B2	Devices and systems for selective auto-retroperfusion of the cerebral venous system Devices and systems for providing retroperfusion and autoretroperfusion therapies to a brain. In certain embodiments, the devices and systems disclosed herein comprise a flow unit configured to adjust the flow rate and pressure of the arterial blood used for perfusion of the venous system. Methods for delivering a bridge retroperfusion therapy are also disclosed such that, after the onset of a stroke or other adverse cerebral event, the brain cells' window of viability may be extended and other treatments, including pharmaceutical and neuroprotective therapies, may be more effectively utilized.
US08241246B2	Side by side lumen catheter and method of manufacture thereof The present invention provides a dual lumen catheter shaft having a first dual lumen section and a second dual lumen section with a transition section therebetween. The present invention further provides a method of forming a dual lumen catheter shaft.
US08241243B2	Needleless injector drug capsule and a method for filling thereof A method for filling needleless injector capsules with liquid drug, whereby dissolved gas within the drug is replaced by a less soluble gas in order to reduce the inclusion of gas bubbles, or to prevent the growth of bubbles during storage and thereby prevent breakage of the capsules.
US08241241B2	Apparatus and methods for clot dissolution Clot disruption and dissolution are achieved using a catheter having the ability to infuse a thrombolytic agent, aspirate clot and fluid, and allow passage of a guidewire. Optionally, the catheter may also include a mechanical agitator for further disrupt clot in the presence of the thrombolytic agent. A flow resistor in the catheter provides for infusion and/or aspiration to be concentrated primarily at a clot treatment area in a blood vessel while also providing optional infusion and/or aspiration distal to the treatment area. In some embodiments, infusion, aspiration and guidewire passage occur through a common lumen. The thrombolytic agent, such as tPA, streptokinase, or urokinase, is directly released into the clot at the point where the agitator is engaging the clot. In this way, the thrombolytic activity of the agent is enhanced and the dissolution of the clot is improved.
US08241237B2	System for monitoring the pressure in a blood line and a device to be used in such a system A system and device for monitoring pressure in a blood line. In such device, a pressure transducer line branches off a blood line to enable the connection of a pressure transducer. To avoid any contamination of the pressure transducer, a first pressure transducer protector filter is used that divides the pressure transducer line into a blood line section between the blood line and the filter, and a pressure transducer section between the filter and the pressure transducer. A sensor is provided for detecting the presence of liquid in the pressure transducer section of the pressure transducer line so as to provide a system by which an unnoticed failure of the first pressure transducer protector filter in a pressure transducer line is avoided as well as a device that can easily be re-used.
US08241235B2	Surgical switch mode power supply and surgical DC power tool In order to improve a surgical DC power tool such that it can be operated, where applicable, under sterile conditions, in particular, using conventional DC voltage supplies, a surgical switch mode power supply for a surgical DC power tool is provided. The switch mode power supply includes a switch mode power supply circuit arrangement, a switch mode power supply housing and a circuit receptacle formed in the housing of the switch mode power supply for accommodating the circuit arrangement of the switch mode power supply. The housing of the switch mode power supply has a switch mode power supply interface which is designed in such a manner that it can be brought into engagement with and/or connected to an interface of the DC power tool provided for a mains-independent energy source. Furthermore, an improved surgical DC power tool having such a power supply is provided.
US08241234B2	Knee brace and method for securing the same A knee brace divided into anterior and posterior sides by a frontal plane, and having first and second sides divided by a median plane. The knee brace including a frame having proximal and distal portions, a stability strap having first and second ends respectively connected to first and second sides on the proximal frame portion along the posterior side thereof, and a cross strap having a first end connected to the first side of the proximal and a second end connected to the distal frame portions. A bracket assembly having a buckle connects the stability and cross straps to the frame. A sleeve is provided which covers the frame and upon which the bracket assembly rests.
US08241222B2	Monitoring hemodynamic status based on intracardiac or vascular impedance This disclosure relates to monitoring intracardiac or vascular impedance to determine a change in hemodynamic status by detecting changes in an impedance parameter over cardiac cycles. An example method includes measuring a plurality of impedance values of a path within a patient over time, wherein the path includes at least one blood vessel or cardiac chamber of the patient, and wherein the impedance values vary as a function of blood pressure within the at least one vessel or chamber, determining a plurality of values of an impedance parameter over time based on the measured impedance values, wherein each of the impedance parameter values is determined based on a respective sub-plurality of the impedance values, comparing at least one of the impedance parameter values to at least one prior impedance parameter value, and identifying a change in a cardiovascular parameter related to the blood pressure based on the comparison.
US08241219B2	Compressive surfaces for ultrasonic tissue scanning Automated ultrasonic scanning of a chestwardly compressed breast of a supine patient uses a scanning assembly that moves down to compress the breast through a membrane that is secured to the assembly across a bottom opening. A motorized ultrasound transducer moves across the breast while the breast remains downwardly compressed against the patient's chest, sending and receiving ultrasound energy through the membrane. The membrane is porous with respect to an acoustic coupling liquid that impregnates it. The transducer outputs ultrasound information that is processed to form initial planar images and then reconstructed slice images of breast tissue.
US08241218B2	Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus A probe includes a transducer unit including a plurality of transducers which are arrayed in the first direction, transmit ultrasonic waves and receive echo signals, and a moving mechanism for continuously moving the transducer unit in the second direction crossing the first direction. A movement control unit controls the moving mechanism to continuously move the transducer unit in the second direction. A transmission unit causes the transducer unit to generate ultrasonic waves. A scan line signal generation unit generates a plurality of actual measurement scan line signals by delaying and adding a plurality of echo signals from the transducer unit. A scan line signal calculation unit calculates a plurality of mathematical scan line signals constituting a plurality of mathematical electronic scan planes from the plurality of actual measurement scan line signals. An image generation unit generates multislice tomograms on the basis of the plurality of calculated mathematical scan line signals.
US08241211B2	Apparatus for determining association variables An apparatus, and related method, for determining one or more association variables is described. The apparatus includes at least one processor, at least one memory, and at least one program module. The program module is stored in the memory and is configurable to be executed by the processor. The program module includes instructions for determining a statistical relationship between one or more temporal onsets corresponding to one or more events and a pattern of occurrence of a compound variable. The compound variable corresponds at least to a pattern of occurrence of a first variable and a pattern of occurrence of a second variable. The determining includes contributions from presence and absence information in the pattern of occurrence of the compound variable.
US08241210B2	Vessel retractor A surgical apparatus includes an elongate cannula having a lumen extending therein between proximal and distal ends, a retractor disposed to slide within the lumen to extend a distal end thereof beyond the distal end of the cannula, an angling device connected to the retractor near the distal end of the retractor and extending within the cannula toward the proximal end thereof for selectively deflecting the distal end of the retractor away from a central axis of the cannula in response to manual manipulation of the angling device from near the proximal end of the cannula, wherein the distal end of the retractor is configured to move, upon extension, an object away from the central axis of the cannula.
US08241209B2	Active seal components Methods and devices are provided to allow for easy manipulation of a configuration and/or an orientation of seal elements of a surgical access device by an end user. In one exemplary embodiment a surgical access device is provided that includes a retractor configured to be positioned within a surgical incision to provide access to a body cavity, seal elements disposed within a lumen of the retractor, and adjustment mechanisms in communication with the seal elements and which are configured to manipulate an orientation of one or more of the seal elements. Types of adjustment mechanisms capable of manipulating the seal elements as desired include inflatable bladders and electroactive polymers. Exemplary methods for providing easy manipulation of the configuration and/or orientation of seal elements of a surgical access device on location are also provided.
US08241207B2	Connection mechanism of plate member and shaft member A connection mechanism is provided with a plate member formed with a polygonal hole, the plate member including a first plate and a second plate overlaid with each other, each of the first plate and the second plate being formed with the polygonal hole, a shaft member formed with a polygonal column section fitted in the polygonal hole formed on the plate member, and a fixing mechanism that fixes the first plate and the second plate with each other to retain a status where the first plate and the second plate are urged oppositely in a rotational direction about a central axis of the shaft member.
US08241200B2	Incubator transporter interface assembly An incubator transporter interface assembly for releasably securing an incubator to a transporter is provided. The interface assembly includes equipment mounts that pivot together between an engaging position and a disengaging position so as to engage and disengage, respectively, the incubator to and from a secured state with the interface assembly.
US08241199B2	Blood pump, medical apparatus having a blood pump and method for assisting the positioning of a blood pump The invention relates to a blood pump and a medical apparatus having a blood pump, which is provided for insertion into the heart of a patient. The blood pump has at least one imaging sensor disposed in the region of the distal end of the blood pump to obtain imaging information in a blood vessel or in the heart. The invention also relates to a method for assisting the positioning of a blood pump in the heart of a patient, wherein image information is recorded inside the body of the patient using the at least one imaging sensor of the blood pump and transmitted in real time to an image processing and playback facility disposed outside the body of the patient for display purposes.
US08241197B2	Method of generating a cardiogram with a magnet A method for generating a cardiogram is provided. The method includes contacting an anterior surface of a patient's heart with a magnetic mat. The magnetic mat is constructed and arranged to conform to and move with the heart as the heart contracts and relaxes. The method also includes placing an electromagnetic assembly on the patient's chest. The electromagnetic assembly includes an inductive coil and is in functionally cooperative relation with respect to the mat. The method also includes measuring a current generated in the coil by movement of the magnetic mat due to movement of the heart.
US08241196B2	Blood processing apparatus with digitally controlled linear voltage regulator for optical pulses The invention relates to apparatus for controlling the processing of blood into blood components, particularly components for stroboscopic LED light sources for centrifuges. A digital control circuit controls a high amperage linear voltage regulator. The voltage regulator charges a capacitor bank, which in turn powers LED light sources. The digital control circuit comprises an N-channel switched mode FET. The switched mode FET receives a pulsed digital signal from the microprocessor controlling the blood processing apparatus. A by-pass resistor in parallel with the FET allows most of the current to flow past the FET, thus minimizes heating of the FET. The performance of the FET, therefore, remains stable despite extended use of the apparatus.
US08241190B2	Exercise machine An exercise machine which has a seat and a backrest which are mounted for independent pivotal movement about an axis to respective chosen inclinations, structure which is fixed to, and which is movable together with, the seat, and resistance bands which are located on the structure.
US08241189B2	Dumbbell A dumbbell of the present invention includes: a handle portion having a flattened cross section; and at least two weight portions provided at opposite ends of the handle portion. The handle portion is connected to an off-center position deviating from a center-of-gravity portion of each of the weight portions.
US08241185B2	Trampoline with attachment frame assembly A trampoline (10) includes a bed (14), a base frame (12), a bed suspension assembly (16) that resiliently couples the bed (14) to the base frame (12), and a plurality of legs (20) that are connected to the base frame (12) so as to maintain the base frame (12) above a surface (36). The base frame (12) includes a first side frame (22), a second side frame (24), a first end frame (26), and a second end frame (28). The plurality of legs (20) includes (i) a first leg (20A) that is secured to the first side frame (22) and the first end frame (26), (ii) a second leg (20B) that is secured to the first side frame (22) and the second end frame (28), (iii) a third leg (20C) that is secured to the second side frame (24) and the second end frame (28), and (iv) a fourth leg (20D) that is secured to the second side frame (24) and the first end frame (26). The trampoline can further include a backstop frame (244A) that is mounted on the base frame (12) and that extends in a generally upward direction away from the base frame (12).
US08241183B2	Modular robotic tiles for physical interaction A therapeutic training device includes a shallow housing of a specific shape with a quadratic top surface, a quadratic bottom surface and four thin rectangular side surfaces. The housing includes an upwardly open cavity in the top surface and a flexible and transparent cover which encloses the cavity at least partially. The flexible and transparent cover has a size in the range between the size of a human fist and the size of a human foot, and defines a central part. The housing further includes a force sensor placed inside the cavity communicating with the central part. The force sensor measures the force applied on the flexible and transparent cover and generates a response signal. The housing further includes a light source placed inside the cavity, the light source being visible through the flexible and transparent cover, and a central processor placed inside the housing, which activates the light sources in accordance with a specific software and evaluates the response signal from the force sensor in accordance with the specific software. A plurality of communication devices are located on the side surfaces and is controlled by the central processor and communicates with adjacent devices.
US08241181B2	Control device and control method for vehicle An ECU executes a program including the steps of: setting a first throttle opening degree (S100), setting a low gear torque LTE based on an engine torque map for low gear having the first throttle opening degree and an engine speed (rpm) as parameters (S200), setting a high gear torque HTE based on an engine torque map for high gear having the first throttle opening degree and the engine speed as parameters (S300), setting a target engine torque TTE by combining the low gear torque LTE and the high gear torque HTE by using a correction ratio KGR determined by a gear step (S400), and controlling the engine to produce a required torque set by using the target engine torque TTE (S700). In this way a torque can be obtained in accordance with the engine speed.
US08241178B2	Continuously variable transmission and control method thereof A continuously variable transmission includes a variator capable of varying a speed ratio continuously, and a subtransmission mechanism provided in series with the variator. When an actual through speed ratio passes a predetermined mode switch speed ratio, a transmission controller performs a coordinated shift in which a gear position of the subtransmission mechanism is changed and a speed ratio of the variator is varied in an opposite direction to a speed ratio variation direction of the subtransmission mechanism. When the rapid deceleration is determined to be underway, the transmission controller decreases a speed ratio variation amount of the variator in the direction of a High side accompanied by a downshift of the subtransmission mechanism compared with the coordinated shift.
US08241176B2	Control of an engine restart in a hybrid electric vehicle A method for restarting an engine in a hybrid electric powertrain includes using an auxiliary pump while the engine is shutdown to maintain stroke pressure in an oncoming transmission friction control element whose engagement is required to launch the vehicle following the restart, initiating an automatic engine restart, increasing a torque capacity of the control element while the engine is restarting, and using pressure produced by a transmission pump in the transmission to lock the control element after the engine restarts.
US08241175B2	Hybrid driving apparatus and vehicle provided with the same Switching conditions are defined by a threshold α1 for switching from “power OFF control” to “power ON control”, and a threshold α2 for switching from the “power ON control” to the “power OFF control”. During a period of a shift operation, the thresholds are changed toward thresholds β1 and β2 smaller than α1 and α2 depending on a shift progress degree PRG, respectively.
US08241173B2	Single motor hybrid transmission A hybrid transmission that is operatively connected with an engine includes an input member operatively connected with the engine, at least one intermediate member, and an output member. A plurality of selectively engagable torque-transmitting mechanisms enable the input member to be selectively operatively connected to the at least one intermediate member through the first gearing arrangement by engagement of different ones of a first set of the torque-transmitting mechanisms. A single motor/generator is operatively connectable to the at least one intermediate member and is selectively operatively connected to the output member in two alternative ways through the second gearing arrangement by selective engagement of two respective ones of a second set of the torque-transmitting mechanisms to establish two different torque ratios between the at least one intermediate member and the output member. The second set of torque-transmitting mechanisms includes dual output clutches that establish the two different torque ratios.
US08241168B2	Eight speed automatic transmission An automatic transmission is provided having 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 be either clutches or brakes.
US08241160B2	Transmission for use in a motor and a pedal-powered vehicle and transmission method thereof A transmission for use in an electrically-driven bicycle and/or a scooter is disclosed, in which the transmission coupled with a motor is embedded together with the motor in a hub of a rear or front wheel. According to the transmission and a transmission method, the power generated from the motor or a pedal is outputted through a transmission device to a hub shell of the wheel. The output of the motor or other output of the motor which is subject to a reduction unit is used as the input of the transmission device. The ring gear and the hub shell are connected to each other with an output pawl, so that the power cannot be reversely inputted when the hub shell is rotated with a higher speed than the ring gear.
US08241153B2	Sports activity device A sports activity device playable, for example, as a device for launching and catching objects and as a tossable flying disc. Embodiments of the sports activity device includes an outer annular ring member and an inner annular ring assembly detachably engaged to the outer annular ring member. The inner annular ring assembly may include an inner annular ring member and an engagement assembly configured and operable to facilitate detachable engagement of the inner annular ring assembly with the outer annular ring member.
US08241145B2	Metal injection molded putter The present invention relates to a method for forming golf club head using metal injection molding and the resulting golf club head. The method of the invention allows for a lower volume of powdered metal than current metal injection molding processes thereby decreasing overall production cost.
US08241143B2	Hollow golf club head having sole stress reducing feature A hollow golf club incorporating a stress reducing feature including a sole located stress reducing feature located on the sole of the club head. The location and size of the sole stress reducing feature, and their relationship to one another and other club head engineering variables, play a significant role in reducing the peak stress seen on the golf club's face during an impact with a golf ball, as well as selectively increasing deflection of the face.
US08241141B2	Iron golf club head A golf club head (1) comprises a head main body (10) having a concave portion (11) formed in the face side and a face plate (20) fixed to the head main body (10). The face plate (20) is mounted on the head main body (10) such that a concave step portion (21) engages with a convex step portion (16a) of the head main body (10), and the upper edge portion, lower edge portion, and toe-side edge portion of the face plate (20) abut against edge portions (13), (14), and (15) of the head main body, respectively. The face plate (20) is laser-welded along its perimeter and fixed to the head main body (10).
US08241139B2	Golf club A golf club according to one or more aspects of the present invention may have a mass less than 300 g, a length greater than about 45 inches, a swing weight between D0 and D6, a head weighing less than about 200 g, a club-head volume of at least about 360 cm3, a grip weighing less than about 50 g, and a shaft having a tip end, a butt end, and a shaft balance point located no more than 24 inches from the butt end. The shaft may have a torsional displacement angle greater than about 5.5° and a mass less than about 50 g. A coordinate system having x-, y-, and z-axes may have its origin at the center of gravity of the club head. The golf club head may have a moment of inertia of at least about 4500 g·cm2 about the z-axis and a moment of inertia of at least about 3000 g·cm2 about the y-axis.
US08241136B2	Method of gaming, a gaming system, and a gaming apparatus A method of gaming comprising: providing a table game of the type where a player seeks to sink one or more balls of a set of balls in one or more pockets of the table by striking the balls with a cue ball in accordance with the rules of the table game; receiving a wager from a player additional to any amount required to play the table game, the wager entitling the player to receive at least one bonus associated with an event if the player achieves the event; and electronically monitoring play of the table game to determine whether the player achieves the event and the bonus should be awarded to the player.
US08241135B2	Latch mechanism applied for multi-function game table A latch mechanism for a multi-function game table including a confinement component and a latch component. The game table has a framework and a tablet rotatably connected to the framework. The confinement component is connected to tablet of the game table. The latch component is connected to the framework of the game table and corresponds with the confinement component. A base of the latch component has a through passage corresponding with a channel of the confinement component. A switch of the latch component is located in the through passage of the base and has a manipulation member and a shut member. The manipulation member is pivotally connected to the base, and the shut member is connected to and extends outwardly from the manipulation member moving with the manipulation member. When the manipulation member pivots inside the base, the shut member is selectively inserted into the channel of the confinement component.
US08241133B1	Airborne space simulator with zero gravity effects Systems, devices, apparatus and methods of using a simulator cabin module with an interior space which replicates a space ship, where the simulator module is mounted in a real aircraft, as a real airborne simulator. The aircraft lifts off to provide airborne maneuvers such as parabolic flight paths to cause G force and zero gravity effects to passengers in the cabin module. The cabin module includes rows of seats where passengers experience realistic sounds, lights, different temperatures, and physical effects (vibrations) of space ship liftoffs and space travel by having realistic simulation effects distributed over the seated passengers. Passengers can be seated in special reclinable seats with 5 point harnesses and pilot helmets with operable wireless communications and uniforms to add to the realistic simulation effects. Simulator modules can also be mounted in other moving vehicles, such as but not limited to submersibles, ships, and the like.
US08241129B2	Setting up on-line game sessions out of a game context A service that provides for setting up game sessions for a plurality of game players. A number of game players that each have a computing device capable of playing a computer game are linked together by the service. The service allows a player to set up a common game session so that a subset of the players can simultaneously start playing the game at the same level. Additionally, the service allows game competitions to be structured and played among a subset of the game players.
US08241128B1	Communication device A video game device which has a mobile phone functionality, wherein a game vibrator which is activated when the game object entering detector identifies that the user controlled game object enters a certain two-dimensional area by identifying the locations of the user controlled game object and the certain two-dimensional area in the computer-generated three-dimensional virtual space is also activated when receiving a phone call.
US08241125B2	Apparatus and method of interaction with a data processor A method of interaction with a data processor such as a games machine comprises the steps of capturing a wide angle image of an environment, obtaining image features from the wide angle image, and then interpreting these image features as inputs to software running on the games machine. The step of obtaining image features from the wide angle image further comprises the step of mapping one or more regions of the wide-angle image to corresponding one or more flat image planes, and obtaining image features from one or more of said planes of the mapped wide-angle image. Advantageously, the planes can be arranged to reflect the topology of a room or the positioning of players, and allow a consistent representation of image features and consequently of input motion to a process such as a game, without position dependent distortions of the features inherent in the wide angle image.
US08241115B2	Multiple key failover validation in a wagering game machine A computerized wagering game system includes a gaming module comprising gaming code which is operable when executed on to conduct a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered, and a security module operable to check the authenticity of a wagering game component using at least one of two or more available encryption keys.
US08241105B1	Gaming device with multiple spinning wheels and method The specification discloses a multi-wheel game-of-chance having at least two groups of spinning wheels, wherein each group includes at least two concentric spinning wheels having a viewable surface face thereon. A plurality of indicia are positioned on the peripherals of the viewable surface face of each wheel such that all indicia on each wheel is viewable to the user. Bet areas are positioned at various locations around at least a portion of each group of wheels; along a line joining the center of any two groups of wheels; and/or a junction between various radially positioned lines extending from the center of two or more groups of wheels. Each bet area represents a possible payline with various pay ratios depending on the probability of various predetermined combinations. For instance, a one-group combination payline has the lowest pay ratio; a two-group payline requires the combination from two groups of wheels and thus, has a higher pay ratio than a one-group payline; and as additional group combination paylines are added, the higher the pay ratio can become.
US08241104B2	Gaming device and method having designated rules for determining ways to win A gaming device includes a game having a plurality of reels and a plurality of symbol positions associated with the reels. The gaming device activates a number of the symbol positions based on a wager by a player. The gaming generates and displays a symbol in each of the active symbol positions. In one embodiment, the gaming device analyzes the generated symbols to determine whether any of the generated symbols are related. If the gaming device determines that any of the generated symbols are related, the gaming device determines whether any of the related symbols form a string of related symbols according to one or more designated rules employed in the game. If one or more strings of related symbols are formed in the game, the gaming device determines if any of the strings of related symbols are associated with any awards and provides such awards to the player.
US08241103B2	Method of playing a bingo-type game with a mechanical technological aid, and an apparatus and program product for playing the game A method of playing a bingo-type game includes the steps of generating a result of the game and displaying a representation of the result. More specifically, the representation of the result of the game is displayed through a mechanical technological aid at an electronic play station. An apparatus for playing the game includes a server and the electronic play station in operative communication with the server. The server generates the called numbers, which correlate to the result of the game, and the electronic play station includes the mechanical technological aid for displaying the representation of the result of the game. A program product for playing the game is stored on computer readable media and includes a result program code for generating the result of the game and a display program code for displaying the representation of the result through the mechanical technological aid.
US08241093B2	Precision guiding device in a machine for machining cylindrical components The component to be machined (2) is fixed with its axis in a position exactly determined in relation to the machine base (1) and the seat (3), by means of the sides (8) and the rear face (9) of the vee arranged on the seat and by means of the intermediate organ (11) in the form of a sector of ring, the concave cylindrical facets (23) of which are adapted to the component (2). The component (2) is pressed against the facets (23) by the finger (14) operated by the stirrup (15). The component (2) can be driven in rotation by a floating spindle operated by a servomotor into a position determined in relation to the machine seat (1).
US08241091B2	Eyeglass lens processing apparatus An eyeglass lens processing apparatus includes: a lens rotation unit rotating a lens; a processing tool rotation unit processing the lens; an axis-to-axis distance changing unit for changing an axis-to-axis distance between the chuck shaft and the processing tool rotation shaft; a lens surface configuration acquiring unit which acquires a front surface curve configuration and a rear surface curve configuration of the lens; a lens outer diameter acquiring unit which acquires an outer diameter of a lens; a calculation unit which calculates a thickness of the lens and calculates a cutting depth of the lens, so that torque applied onto the chuck shaft in rough processing becomes substantially constant, based on the calculated lens thickness and a processing distance from the rotation center of the lens; and a control unit which controls the axis-to-axis distance changing unit in accordance with the calculated cutting depth and for rough processing the lens.
US08241090B2	Bra strap holder The bra strap holder is used to secure the bra straps in the back of the bra from sliding down the shoulders. It is comprised of a clear TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) strap welded to unique three prong flexible plastic ends which attach to the bra strap.
US08241083B2	Toy plane An toy return glider having a first sheet member with a head cover section, a wing section and a tail section disposed along a longitudinal axis, and a rear air intake duct disposed within a connecting area between the wing section and the tail section. The toy glider also has a second sheet member with a body and rudders disposed along the longitudinal axis. The body has two longitudinal fold lines parallel to the longitudinal axis, and when the second sheet member is folded upward, two first slots extend obliquely rearward and downward with the rear air intake duct cover coupled with the two first slots, and the head cover section bonds a front section of the body to form a front air intake duct. The toy glider enhances the structural strength, overall stability and life time of the glider.
US08241080B2	Cover structure for outboard engine unit An outboard engine unit having a cover halved into two. An undercover is made of a resin and halved into a left resin half and a right resin half. A lower mount cover is made of a resin and halved into a left resin half and a right resin half. The resin halves are formed so that when they are mated together, a gap is defined at a connection therebetween on a rear face side of the outboard engine unit. An elastic rubber member is filled in the gap.
US08241077B2	Terminal fitting A terminal fitting includes: a body portion having a space for inserting a tab of a mating terminal therein; an elastic contact piece provided to face the space, having a configuration as to be extended like a cantilever in a direction of an insertion and pull-out of the tab with respect to the space through a wall-shaped portion constituting the body portion, and having a contact portion to come in contact with the tab; and an elastic reinforcing piece provided on an opposite side to the space with the elastic contact piece interposed therebetween, having a configuration as to be extended like a cantilever in the direction of the insertion and pull-out of the tab from the wall-shaped portion constituting the body portion, and causing an extended end to correspond to a displaced region in an elastic flexure in the elastic contact piece.
US08241076B2	Female terminal fitting A female terminal fitting (10) has a tubular main portion (11) with first and second opposed resilient pieces (21, 24) formed therein. The second resilient piece (24) has an extending piece (25), a support (26) and a pressing piece (27). The support (26) contacts the inner surface of the main portion (11) and the pressing piece (27) extends from the support (26) to hold the first resilient piece (21) in a pre-loaded state. A tab (60) is inserted between the extending piece (25) and the first resilient piece (21) to incline the pressing piece (27) about the support (26) and to release the pre-loaded state. The extending piece (25) resiliently deforms about the support (26) and toward the tab (60) as the pressing piece (27) is inclined. Thus, the tab (60) is held resiliently between the extending piece (25) and the first resilient piece (21). With this arrangement, the tab (60) may be inserted at low frictional force but at complete insertion is held tightly be increased frictional force.
US08241073B2	Terminal with a u-shape support structure protruding from its side A terminal support structure has a housing that is of a resin molding product having a terminal inserting hole, a connecting terminal that is inserted into the terminal inserting hole and supported by the housing, and a retaining projection including a press-in groove parallel to a direction of insertion of the connecting terminal that is provided in an opening edge portion of the terminal inserting hole. A press-in portion is integrally formed in a side portion of the connecting terminal. Upper and lower end portions of the press-in portion are latched and retained in upper and lower surfaces opposite to each other in the press-in groove, respectively.
US08241061B2	Obturator for a compartment of a junction unit and junction unit equipped with such a obturator The subject of the invention is a plug for a socket of a connector housing including a sealing front part with a mat-seal equipping the rear of connector housing, and a rear part defining a zone for holding the plug in a rear passage of the connector housing, front part and rear part being connected by a transition zone.
US08241060B2	Snap-on coaxial cable connector A coaxial cable connector includes an elongated body extending in a longitudinal direction between a mating end and a cable end. The coaxial cable connector also includes a center contact held by the body. A locking member is circumferentially disposed around the body at the mating end. The locking member has teeth configured to mechanically engage a threaded area of a mating connector to securely attach the coaxial cable connector to the mating connector. The locking member is slidably coupled to the body such that the locking member moves with respect to the body along the longitudinal direction to enable the teeth to align with the threaded area along the longitudinal direction.
US08241054B2	Attachment ring for attaching a shield of an electrical cable to a backshell An attachment ring is provided for attaching a shield of an electrical cable to a backshell. The attachment ring includes an annular body including a shape memory material that is heat recoverable. The body is configured to extend at least partially around the shield and a fitting of the backshell to hold the shield on the fitting in contact with the fitting. The body includes a first segment including an end having a connection member. The body also includes a second segment that is discrete from the first segment. The second segment includes an end having a connection feature. The connection feature of the second segment is interlocked with the connection member of the first segment to connect the first and second segments together at the ends such that the first and second segments define at least a portion of a length of the body.
US08241052B2	Electrical connector system with power and command connectors The present relates to an electrical connector system which includes a first connector assembly having a first connector and a second connector to be coupled one to the other; a second connector assembly having a third connector and a housing contiguous to the first connector, the housing having an open connecting face for receiving within a complementary part of the third connector so as to perform a coupling one to the other. This connector system may include a movable element which is movable between two positions, i.e.: a “first position” in which it masks at least partially the open connecting face, so that it makes impossible the coupling with the third connector; a “second position” in which it does not mask the front open connecting face, so that it makes possible the coupling with the third connector; the movable element being able to be moved into the “second position” only when said first and second connectors are fully coupled together.
US08241050B2	Docking cradle with floating connector assembly A docking cradle for a portable electronic device has a floating connector assembly which isolates a portable electronic device connected to the connector assembly from at least some of the shock, vibration or other motion imposed on the rest of the docking cradle. The connector assembly is positioned above a base frame and comprises a platform, a device interface on the platform, a device securing mechanism connected to the platform and connectable to the portable electronic device to physically secure the portable electronic device to the connector assembly; and at least one connector assembly spring connecting the connector assembly to the base frame such that the connector assembly is movable laterally relative to the base frame.
US08241049B2	Adapter apparatus An adapter apparatus includes a main body, two conductive head portions, and two covers. The main body includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The conductive head portions are electrically connected to each other, and pivotably mounted to the first and second ends, respectively, to pivot between first positions where the covers cover the corresponding head portions, and second positions where the covers are latched to the main body to expose the corresponding head portions.
US08241046B2	Connector shell with a mounting piece having a sectional reducing part with a groove adjoining an opening A connector shell to be mounted on a board includes a shell body and a mounting piece. In the shell body, a plug inserting space is defined. The mounting piece is integral with the shell body, and is extended from the shell body through the board to be fixed to the board by soldering. A sectional area reducing part is provided in the mounting piece between the shell body and a distal end part of the mounting piece. The sectional area reducing part has a sectional area smaller than a sectional area at the distal end part, and is disposed so as to face the plug inserting space.
US08241044B2	LED socket assembly A socket assembly includes a light emitting diode (LED) package having an LED printed circuit board (PCB) with an LED mounted thereto. The LED package has a power contact configured to receive power from a power source to power the LED. The socket assembly also includes a socket housing having a receptacle that removably receives the LED package. The socket housing has a securing feature engaging the LED PCB to secure the LED PCB within the receptacle, where the securing feature is configured to release the LED PCB to remove the LED PCB from the receptacle. Optionally, the socket housing may include mounting features configured to mount the socket housing to a base, where the LED package is removable from the socket housing while the socket housing remains mounted to the base. A second LED package may be provided, where the LED package is removable from the receptacle and is replaced by the second LED package.
US08241038B2	Simulator utilizing a non-spherical projection surface The present invention relates to a simulator comprising at least one projector arranged to project an image, and a non-spherical, generally continuous, dome-like projection surface on which the image is displayed.
US08241037B2	Disk implant A dental implant for mounting prosthetic devices such as crowns, having a shaft having an external end adapted for receiving a prosthetic device, a foot attached to an opposing end of the shaft, the foot and shaft being generally orthogonal and the implant foot having a circular outline over an arc α with two long substantially linear sides enclosing an angle β, the linear sides being disposed substantially symmetrically with respect to the shaft.
US08241035B2	Device having activated textured surfaces for treating oral tissue Mouthpieces having activated textured surfaces that can be implemented using repetitive movement mechanisms and energy (e.g., electromagnetic radiation) emitting sources are disclosed. The mouthpieces may be used to provide detection, treatment and management of conditions including tooth discoloration and periodontal disease. Implementations can include a low-profile mouthpiece or a mouthpiece covering only front sides of the upper and lower teeth. Other combinations may include full-mouth implementations suitable for simultaneously covering part or all of a patient's upper and lower rows of teeth. The activated textured surfaces may include a surface topography consisting of bristles.
US08241034B2	Fuel selection valve assemblies In certain embodiments, an apparatus includes a control valve for regulating fuel flow. The apparatus can include a burner and a valve assembly. In some embodiments, the valve assembly includes a housing, which can define a first fuel input for receiving a first fuel from a first fuel source and a second fuel input for receiving a second fuel from a second fuel source. The housing can define a first fuel output for directing fuel toward the control valve, and can define a third fuel input for receiving a portion of either the first fuel or the second fuel from the control valve. The housing can define a first egress flow path and a second egress flow path, each for directing fuel to the burner. In certain embodiments, the apparatus includes a valve body configured to selectively permit fluid communication between the first and second inputs and the output and between the third input and the egress flow paths.
US08241026B2	Polymer processing machine and method for the operation of a polymer processing machine The polymer processing machine, is an injection molding machine, which has at least two electrical consumers (1, 2, 3, 4). At least one of the electrical consumers (1, 2, 3) is also designed as a generator for the conversion of kinetic energy into electrical energy. The machine is connected for its supply with electrical energy with an electrical alternating current network (5). To increase the energy efficiency of the machine, the electrical network (5) is connected to a direct current intermediate circuit (7) via a rectifier (6). At least a part of the electrical consumers (1, 2, 3, 4) are electrically connected to the direct current intermediate circuit (7) and are powered from the direct current intermediate circuit (7) with electrical energy. At least a part of the electrical consumers (1, 2, 3) which are designed as generator operation are electrically connected to the direct current intermediate circuit (7) for supplying it with generated electrical energy.
US08241022B2	Rotation-preventing member and scroll compressor A rotation-preventing member has an annular main body, first keys, and second keys. The first keys face one another across a main body axis, and extend to one side along an axial direction of the main body. The first keys have first surfaces that include the axial direction and a radial direction of the main body. The second keys face one another across an imaginary surface being parallel to the first surfaces and including the axis, and the second keys extend to the same side as the first keys extend to or the side opposite to the first keys along the axial direction. The second keys also have third surfaces orthogonal to the first surfaces and including the axial direction. Of the first keys and second keys, at least the first keys are provided with recesses that open onto end surfaces on the side toward which the keys extend.
US08241020B2	Piston pump The present invention relates to a piston pump. A piston with at least one transverse bore and a longitudinal blind bore, has a plate element with an opening, arranged on the piston at an opening of the longitudinal blind bore. The invention includes an inlet valve, an outlet valve, and a pressure chamber arranged between the inlet valve and the outlet valve. The inlet valve has a pretensioning element, a closing element, and a sealing seat, which sealing seat is built on the plate element.
US08241015B2	Linear compressor The invention refers to a linear compressor, comprising: a shell (20); a cylinder (30) affixed to the shell (20) and defining a compression chamber (C); a piston (40) to be displaced in reciprocating movement in the interior of the compression chamber (C) during the operation of the compressor; a linear electric motor (50) mounted to the shell (20); and an actuating means (60) operatively coupling the piston (40) to the linear electric motor (50), in order to make the latter displace the piston (40) in a reciprocating movement in the interior of the compression chamber (C), the actuating means (60) being coupled to the piston (40) by an elastic means (70), so that the actuating means (60) and the piston (40) be displaced in phase opposition during the operation of the compressor.
US08241009B2	Water main system with monitoring of addition of branches, system and method therefor The present invention relates to a system for reusing water, comprising: —a mains system which comprises at least one conduit for transporting water and monitoring means adapted to measure changes in an electrical parameter of the conduit; —a storage tank for storing supplied water; —a water discharge for discharging stored water to a water-consuming unit; and—a control system adapted to control the supply of water to and the discharge of water from the storage tank subject to the changes in the parameter measured by the monitoring means. The present invention also relates to a mains system applied in such a system, and to a method for monitoring such a system or water mains system.
US08241006B2	Turbocharger The invention relates to an exhaust gas turbocharger (1) having a turbine wheel arrangement (20), comprising: a turbine wheel (4) and a shaft (21), which can be connected to the turbine wheel (4) by means of a connecting section (22), wherein the connecting section (22) has a trunnion (23) with a diameter (DZ) that is smaller than the largest diameter (DWA) of the shaft (21).
US08241005B2	Gas turbine engine centrifugal impeller In one embodiment a centrifugal impeller has an axis of rotation, a plurality of blades, and a plurality of pitches defined between the blades. A cavity may be formed in a back side of the impeller, opposite with at least one of the plurality of pitches. In one form the cavity may not extend below a radius determined according to a stress criteria or stress limitation.
US08241004B2	Component structure Within hollow structures, such as blade structures in a gas turbine engine, traditionally rigid girdered reinforcement has been utilised to define structure and shape. Such rigid definition can inhibit utilisation of damping fillers within the hollow structure. By providing a web former comprising spaced bond areas suspended upon angled interconnecting membranes a hollow structure is achieved which is flexible and can be used in conjunction with a damping filler to achieve desired performance. The web former supports skins defining the shape and takes some load such that the damping filler does not separate within the hollow structure.
US08241002B2	Rotor blade for a wind power plant The present invention concerns a rotor blade for a wind power plant having an aerodynamic profile. The rotor blade has a main rotor body with an aerodynamic profile and a tip. The tip extends away from a plane of the rotor blade and in a direction of at least one of a low pressure side or a high pressure side of the main rotor body. The tip includes a tip upper edge, a tip leading edge, and a tip trailing edge. At least a portion of the tip leading edge is curved such that a width of the tip defined between the tip leading edge and the tip trailing edge is reduced towards the upper edge.
US08240999B2	Internally supported airfoil and method for internally supporting a hollow airfoil during manufacturing A hollow airfoil and a method for manufacturing a hollow airfoil is provided. The method includes the steps of: providing a first airfoil portion, which first portion has a wall with an interior surface and an exterior surface, and one or more ribs extending out from the interior surface; providing a second airfoil portion having a wall with an interior surface and an exterior surface; wherein the first airfoil portion and the second airfoil portion have mating geometries in which the one or more ribs extend between the interior surfaces of the walls of the first and second airfoil portion to form at least one internal cavity defined by the interior surface of the first portion wall, one or more of the ribs, and the interior surface of the second portion wall, and wherein the airfoil includes at least one exterior port disposed in one of the first airfoil portion or the second airfoil portion, or is formed between the first and second airfoil portions, which at least one exterior port is in fluid communication with the at least one cavity; disposing a support material within the at least one internal cavity allowing the support material to be in contact with the one or more ribs, which support material is operative to structurally support the one or more ribs; attaching the first and second airfoil portions together; and removing the support material from the at least one internal cavity through the at least one exterior port.
US08240997B2	Centrifugal impeller and centrifugal blower using the centrifugal impeller Centrifugal impeller (14) of centrifugal air blower (1) has main plate (15); a plurality of blades (18); ring-shaped plate (20); and a cylindrical wall (22). The blades (18) are circumferentially disposed on the side of the outer periphery of front side (17) of main plate (15). Ring-shaped plate (20) is attached to tip sections (19) of blades (18). Cylindrical wall (22) is disposed on the back side (21) of the main plate (15) so as to be concentric therewith. The structure above provides centrifugal impeller (14) and centrifugal air blower (1) with improved air-blow efficiency and noise-reduced operations.
US08240996B2	Synergistic blade and hub structure for cooling fans A synergistic blade and hub structure for a cooling fan. Helical gussets are provided which proceed from the central hub member adjacent one blade member to the trailing edge of an adjacent blade member. The helical gussets provide structural load paths as well as aerodynamic flow guides. The helical gussets extend axially rearwardly to the trailing edges of preceding blade members and provide structural attachments between the leading and trailing edges of adjacent blade members. Hollow triangular structures are also provided on the rear of the fan structure and the triangulation area provides superior stiffness.
US08240994B2	Cooling arrangement An aerofoil for a gas turbine engine comprising a pressure wall and a suction wall and defining leading and trailing edges, the walls define a passage into which is supplied a cooling fluid, an array of cooling holes is provided through at least one of the walls to allow the cooling fluid to flow from an interior surface to an exterior surface. The array of holes comprise two groups, the holes of each group are angled to intersect the holes of the other group and are characterized in that the holes of at least one of the groups comprises two or more holes at different angles to one another to vary the porosity of the wall to account for otherwise varying wall temperatures. This arrangement also allows either less coolant mass flow to maintain a constant metal temperature, or a lower metal temperature for a given coolant mass flow.
US08240989B2	Fan A fan includes a fan frame and an impeller. The fan frame includes a frame body and a base, and the impeller is accommodated in the main body and is disposed on the base. The frame body has a column-shaped passage, an airflow outlet and an airflow inlet. The main body further has two expansion portions respectively disposed adjacent to the outlet and inlet. The expansion portions extend from the column-shaped passage to the outlet and the inlet, respectively. The main body has at least two planar sides so as to allow parts of the expansion portions to respectively form straight-cut lines where the planar sides are located, respectively. The base has several straight-cut planes, and each of the straight-cut planes is located with respect to the straight-cut line.
US08240983B2	Gas turbine engine systems involving gear-driven variable vanes Gas turbine engine systems involving gear-driven variable vanes are provided. In this regard, a representative gas turbine engine system includes: a ring gear assembly operative to be mounted within an engine casing; and a vane module having a first vane airfoil and a first gear, the first gear being operative to engage the ring gear assembly such that movement of the ring gear alters a position of the first vane airfoil.
US08240977B2	Wind collector device for generation of energy A wind collector device for energy production comprising a fixed external structure formed by a vertical cylinder having two bases, the upper and the lower, of variable height and diameter, with vertical dividing walls distributed circumferentially and equidistantly, which form nozzles that concentrate and channel the wind; wherein inside the structure is arranged in concentric form at least one turbine, including a rotation shaft sustained between the bases and associated to an upper and a lower bearing, to which multiple radial vanes are fixed, to transmit this movement to complementary transmission means supported by at least a power generator.
US08240976B1	Methods and apparatus for centrifugal pumps utilizing head curve Centrifugal Pumps are known to exhibit unstable operating region(s) in flow as evidenced by unstable operating region(s) in flow as evidenced by the pump's flow-head curve that has either a flat or a positive slope. The unstable flow has been determined to be due to the generating of a vortex and appears in the cross-over pass located downstream of the pump impeller in the area where the flow direction changes or bends for entry into the diffuser, specifically an axial diffuser with blades. Once the flow-head curve for a selected centrifugal pump is plotted, the unstable area is manipulated by the use of tandem vane devices to eliminate the unstable regions of the flow head curve. These vane devices may be the full height or partial height vanes sized on the basis of the cross-over path for guiding the fluid stream from the pump impeller into the diffuser smoothly including a change in direction. A small axial gap is defined between the tandem vane and the downstream axial diffuser vanes. The tandem vane has its leading edge skewed a pre-selected amount for introducing a twisting movement into the fluid stream to reduce any vortices or eddies in the fluid stream to thereby causing the unstable area(s) of the flow-head curve to exhibit stable operation by the modified flow-head curve that is continuously rising toward pump shut-off. Since the various parameter for the vane devices are dependent on the design of the selected pump's impeller and the design of the diffuser blades, these must be experimented with to achieve the best flow rates.
US08240975B1	Multiple staged compressor with last stage airfoil cooling A high compression ratio compressor having multiple stages of airfoils to produce the high pressure rations, where the last stage airfoils are cooled by passing cooling air through the airfoils without discharging film cooling air. The cooling air for the airfoils is bled off from an upstream stage of the compressor, passed through the airfoil to provide for the cooling, and then discharged back into the compressor at a stage upstream of where the bleed off air was extracted and where the pressure is lower. Because of the high pressure rations, the air temperature in the compressor is at such a high temperature that the last stage airfoils must be cooled to prevent thermal damage.
US08240974B2	Cold air buffer supply tube A cold air buffer supply tube for a gas turbine engine includes a tube body having a first tube end and a second tube end. A fitting is secured to the first tube end, and a metering cap is secured to the tube second end. The metering cap includes a cap body having a peripheral wall with a plurality of holes to direct flow from an air supply into a bearing compartment for the gas turbine engine.
US08240972B2	Robot with linearly movable support member attaching to gripper In a robot, a support member is supported to an arm to be reciprocable with respect to one of first and second sides of the arm in a predetermined direction. A rotary member of a converter is coupled to a motor, and a linear movable member of the converter is contacted to the rotary member and linked to the support member. The converter works to transfer rotary motion received by the rotary member from the motor as linear motion to the linear movable member through a transfer contact portion between the rotary member and the linear movable member to thereby move the linear movable member together with the support member in the predetermined direction. The transfer contact portion between the rotary member and the linear movable member is located offset to the one of the first and second sides of the arm relative to the other thereof.
US08240966B2	Fastening apparatus with tolerance equalization A fastening apparatus for fastening a first component to a second component with automatic equalization of tolerances in the separation distance between the first and second component s, including a receiving element and an adjustment element, which can be screwed to the receiving element by way of a fastening screw. The adjustment element can be turned via a detachable drag connection when the fastening screw is turned. The receiving element below a flange has at least one radially projecting holding projection so that the receiving element can be immobilized on the first component.
US08240965B2	Mounting structure with heat sink for electronic component and female securing member for same A mounting structure is provided which is capable of easily attaching a heat sink irrespective of a thickness of an LSI (Large-Scale Integration circuit) mounted on a printed circuit board. Each female screw metal fitting of each female screw portion is attached on an upper surface of a cylindrical gel in a stacked manner and a lower surface of the cylindrical gel is attached to the printed circuit board. An end portion of each male screw is made to pass through each through-hole of the heat sink so as to be screwed into each of the female screw portions. With a progress of screwing therein, each of the female screw portions is elevated and the cylindrical gel is pulled and elongated. Since a restoring force occurs when the cylindrical gel is elongated, the heat sink is pulled by each of the female screw portions toward the LSI. Thus, variations in height can be accommodated.
US08240960B2	Device for producing precise countersinking in drilled holes A depth stop attached to a drill for producing precise countersinking in drilled holes. The depth stop produces an accurate and precise countersink in drilled holes by limiting the depth to which a drill bit can drill through a work piece. An audible click occurs for every 7.5 micron change in depth in the preferred embodiment. The depth stop is configured such that attempts to over tighten the lock screw which fixes the depth amount will not damage or deflect the working parts of the device thereby producing accurate and repeatable results.
US08240957B1	Removable coupler apparatus and method for use in placing pilings in the ground Piling, apparatus and methods for pouring a concrete piling in situ around pre-positioned reinforcing rods inside removable hollow pipe sections that have been screwed into the ground. A final coupler pipe section including a removable coupler device is releasably attached to a reducer section and helical screw anchor that are left in the ground. The pipe sections are connected end to end by helical flanges and are screwed into the ground using the helical screw anchor. Once the pipe sections are screwed into the ground to a desired depth, the coupler device is operated to release the coupler section from the reducer section and the coupler device is extracted from the pipe sections. Reinforcing rods are disposed inside the pipe sections and reducer section. Concrete is poured into the pipe sections and reducer section to encase the reinforcing rods. The pipe sections including the coupler section are then removed from the ground and reused.
US08240950B1	Underground water retention system and associated methods An embodiment of a water retention and distribution system for use in an underground installation comprises at least one layer of at least one pipe with at least one hole therein. The at least one layer may be fluidly connected to a water source and a means for distribution. A water impermeable cover encloses the at least one layer. Water in the at least one layer may be distributed into the ground through a vertical pipe that includes a divider that separates the vertical pipe into first and second halves for controlling the flow of water into the means for distribution.
US08240948B2	Road marker with nonplated lens A pavement road marker is provided mounted to a road having a main shell or body having a top portion. The top portion of the body being generally planar and including a lens mounted thereon. The lens is mounted within the body so that the plane created by the lens is beneath the plane created by the planar surface of the body portion. The assembly further includes an inner cavity having a first surface and a first opening. The first opening is oppositely disposed from the top portion. The first surface of the inner cavity includes various structural elements such as protrusions, legs, or dimples. The protrusions, legs, and dimples increase surface area to improve adhesion of potting to the inner surface of the housing to fill the cavity of the housing. The legs having a lateral surface which extend on a plane normal to an outer surface of the body.
US08240939B2	Metal to plastic connector for toy structures The apparatus is a connector for toy structures and educational instruments, particularly for assembling plastic and metal components. The connector includes a circular base with apertures for securing to an expansive metal construction piece by use of screws or similar threaded fasteners. The connector further includes a passageway for receiving a second construction piece, such as a plastic construction piece. Pegs pass through aligned apertures in the walls of the passageway as well as apertures in the second construction pieces, thereby securing the second construction piece to the connector.
US08240938B2	Over cap brush for dispensing bottle An over cap brush for a squeeze dispensing bottle comprising a body injection molded as a single piece, the body being formed of a relatively soft elastomeric material, the body including a circular end wall, a generally cylindrical skirt at an outer periphery of the end wall defining a central axis and extending in one direction along the axis, the end wall having a central through hole and an outer face with a multitude of bristles distributed about the hole and extending axially from said face in a direction opposite the one direction, the skirt being of sufficient length so as to extend along the threads of a screw-on cap to retain the over cap brush on the cap by frictionally engaging the exterior of the skirt of the cap while the cap is disposed on a squeeze dispensing bottle.
US08240936B2	Toothbrush having soft tissue cleaning elements An oral care implement includes a head and a plurality of cleaning elements for enhanced cleaning of the teeth and soft tissue of the oral cavity. One tooth cleaning element has a plurality of bristles adapted to clean teeth. Another cleaning element is connected to the head and has structure defining a channel. The channel is configured to direct fluid in contact with the head toward an edge of the head when the implement is moved. The head also defines a reservoir that is configured to receive a dentifrice therein.
US08240934B2	Dispenser with one-way valve for storing and dispensing substances A dispenser for dispensing a substance, such as a liquid lipstick or other cosmetic, pharmaceutical or cosmeceutical product, has a body with a variable-volume storage chamber for storing the product. A dispensing portion is connected with the body and a one-way valve for dispensing amounts of product therethrough. The dispensing portion defines a compression chamber in fluid communication with the storage chamber for receiving product therefrom, and an outlet aperture coupled in fluid communication with the compression chamber. The one-way valve has a valve seat, and a visco-elastic valve cover seated on the valve seat and defining a normally-closed, axially-extending seam therebetween forming a fluid-tight seal between the valve cover and valve seat. The flexible valve cover is movable relative to the valve seat, and the seam is connectable in fluid communication with the outlet aperture to allow the passage of product through the seam and out of the dispenser. An actuator is drivingly connected to the compression chamber for pressurizing product within the compression chamber and dispensing an amount of product within the compression chamber.
US08240933B2	Heated flowable product dispenser A bottle includes a product stored therein. It is configured to be removably engaged with a docking station in an inverted arrangement to be activated by the docking station and heat the product. The bottle may include a pump structure (e.g. in the form of a bellows), or be a squeezable bottle, or be a bowable bottle, or have other pumping features. Structures are provided to prevent drool after use, to help apply the heated product to the skin, and to insure proper heating and dispensing. There are combined docking stations and bottles where the bottle is positioned in an inverted manner, and methods for using these devices.
US08240927B2	Cable attachment system for a fiber optic connector A cable attachment system is disclosed for attaching a fiber optic connector to a fiber optic cable. In particular, strength members of the fiber optic cable are crimped between a crimp sleeve and a cable anchor, and the cable anchor is anchored to the fiber optic connector. An end of the crimp sleeve is adapted to receive an end of a jacket of the fiber optic cable. An end of the cable anchor includes a nipple adapted for insertion into the end of the jacket. An end portion of the jacket is crimped between an intermediate portion of the crimp sleeve and the nipple of the cable anchor. A support portion of the crimp sleeve, positioned between the end and the intermediate portion of crimp sleeve, supports a transitioning portion of the jacket beyond the end of the cable anchor.
US08240922B2	Bearing device for wheel A wheel support bearing assembly, which enables an increase in the strength and the fatigue strength of its wheel mounting flange or vehicle body fitting flange against high stress and repeated stress and the suppression of the increase of the number of processes, includes an inner member and an outer member rotatable relative to each other through rolling elements. The flange is formed on the inner member or the outer member. A component part having the flange is a hot-forged product of steel in which a matrix portion is formed as a standard structure and the non-standard structural portion is formed on the surface of the flange. The non-standard structure is formed of either of a fine ferrite/pearlite structure, an upper bainite structure, a lower bainite structure, and a tempered martensite structure, or mixture of two or more of these structures.
US08240919B2	Hydrostatic bearing pad A hydrostatic bearing pad in which separation between a housing and a pad member and entry of an adhesive into an air supply groove are prevented to obtain stable bearing performance is provided. The hydrostatic bearing pad includes the pad member having a bearing surface forming a hydrostatic bearing and having air supply holes formed therein, and the housing bonded to the pad member with the adhesive. The air supply groove for supplying compressed gas to the pad member is formed in a surface of the housing bonded to the pad member in a manner corresponding to arrangement of the air supply holes. An adhesive inflow groove, is formed between a bonded portion, where the housing and the pad member are bonded to each other with the adhesive interposed therebetween and the air supply groove. The adhesive inflow groove, is formed along the air supply groove in the surface of the housing bonded to the pad member.
US08240915B2	Heat activated adhesives for bag closures A polymeric woven bag has a first panel and a second panel and an open end of the bag to be pinched closed. A first layer of heat activated adhesive material is on a portion of the bag to form an adhesive-to-adhesive seal by contact with a second layer of heat activated adhesive material on a portion of the bag. second panel, wherein a chemical family of the adhesive layers comprises, distillates, petroleum and ethanamine or naphthene components, and wherein the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer have respective heat activation temperatures below the softening point temperature of the polymeric bag material.
US08240912B2	Multi-zone non-contact spot thermometer A non-contact measurement device includes two or more detectors for sensing scene data from corresponding measurement zones within a target scene. Devices further include an optical system for imaging scene data from the target scene onto the detectors. The optical system is configured to provide a different optical profile for each detector, such that the device can be used to provide a best-fit optical profile for a variety of non-contact applications.
US08240910B2	Mechanical oscillator for timepiece Mechanical oscillator for a timepiece including a balance (10) and a hairspring (12). The balance (10) and the hairspring (12) are produced from the same material. This material is non-magnetic and has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion.
US08240902B2	LED linear light source and devices using such source A linear light source device includes a light guiding member formed of a transparent body and an LED element arranged to face an end of the light guiding member. A plurality of recesses or projections are formed in a circumferential direction on the transparent body. Light from the LED element incident on the recesses or projections is reflected by the recesses or projections and travels toward the side of the light guiding member opposite to the recesses or projections to be emitted to the outside.
US08240901B2	Display apparatus having right-hand and left-hand illumination units The invention relates to a display apparatus with a display unit, having means for background lighting at the back of the display apparatus. According to the invention, the means for background lighting comprise two illumination units being provided at the right-hand and left-hand of the display apparatus, said illumination units being formed as substantially vertically positioned, longitudinal light guides comprising means for coupling out light, each of the light guides being provided on at least one of its ends with a light source. The light sources preferably comprise colored LEDs.
US08240900B2	Lighting device The invention relates to a lighting device (1) comprising an envelope (2), a base (3), a solid-state light source (4) and optical means (5) provided with a light-outcoupling surface, the solid-state light source (4) being optically coupled to said optical means (5). The use of a spirally wound optical fiber as optical means (5) and a transparent envelope (2) shaped as a conventional light bulb provides a lighting device (1) which is a good look -alike of the conventional incandescent lamp, such as, for instance, the carbon filament lamp. The long lifetime and high efficiency of LEDs as a solid-state light source (4) will make this lighting device (1) a very attractive alternative for the conventional incandescent lamp. The lighting device (1) according to the present invention has the further advantage that a large gamut of colors can be chosen and adjusted by using, for instance, red green and blue LEDs in said lighting device (1). The electronics for driving and controlling the intensity and color settings can be incorporated in the lighting device (1).
US08240898B2	Door mirror including fresnel lens On the surface of Fresnel lens part which is formed on the back face of the lens in a door mirror, grain is provided. This grain includes the first grain formed in the first area positioned in the outside of the boundary extending in the front and rear direction of a vehicle, and the second grain formed in the second area positioned in the door panel side of the boundary, and the concavity depth of the second grain is deeper than that of the first grain. Consequently, illumination intensity of the light irradiated toward the face of the door panel from the deeper grain side of the second area can be reduced compared with the illumination intensity of the light toward the footstep from the shallower grain side of the first area. Adoption of such lens makes possible to apply in the various vehicle models through changing only the boundary position and concavity depth of the grain on the face of the Fresnel lens part.
US08240897B2	Optical axis adjusting apparatus and vehicle light including the same An optical axis adjusting apparatus and vehicle light include a lamp housing and a reflector. The optical axis adjusting apparatus includes a ball joint via which the lamp housing and the reflector are connected, an aiming screw, a nut portion, and a support member. The nut portion is screwed onto the aiming screw and the support member is fit onto the aiming screw.
US08240896B2	Vehicle headlamp A vehicle headlamp with improved vibration proof of a movable reflector is provided. The vehicle headlamp has: a holder; an upside movable reflector and a downside movable reflector; light sources; and a drive unit. The drive unit is made up of a motor and a drive force transmission mechanism. The drive force transmission mechanism rotates the upside and downside movable reflectors in reverse directions, respectively. As a result, the vehicle headlamp can improve the vibration proof of the upside and downside movable reflectors.
US08240895B2	Light fixture An LED light fixture includes a post having a fixing bar at a top end thereof, a first lamp mounted on the fixing bar, and a second lamp rotatably mounted on the fixing bar. The first and second lamps are capable of rotating with respect to the fixing bar to change an angle between the first and second lamps, to thereby change an illumination area and intensity distribution of the LED light fixture. In one position, the second lamp overlaps the first lamp, and LED light sources in the first lamp are alternate with those of the second lamp.
US08240894B2	Lighting system with removable light modules A lighting system with removable light modules mounted on a frame by an attractive force between magnetic material of the light module and magnetic material of the frame such that a light module may be installed on, removed from, or relocated on the frame manually without tools or permanent electrical connection. The frame may be one-, two-, or three-dimensional, and it may provide an aesthetic appearance even when the lighting system is not illuminated. The light modules may employ incandescent, quartz-halogen, LED, or fluorescent light sources. Particularly, in LED embodiments, the magnetic materials serve the dual functions of mounting and heat sinking. The lighting system may be utilized as a sign, signaling device, or a building block in larger lighting systems. The lighting system has a wide variety of applications and provides a user with improved ability to control the quantity, direction, and characteristics of the emitted light.
US08240892B2	Reading light A reading light includes a light emitting diode (LED) capable of emitting light, a transparent pressable member, and a flexible printed circuit board capable of connecting a power supply to the LED. When the pressable member is at a normal state, the flexible printed circuit is disconnects the LED from the power supply to power off the LED. When the pressable member is at a depressed state, the flexible printed circuit electrically connects the LED to the power supply to powered on the LED.
US08240889B2	LED lamp casing A casing includes a main body, a ring defining a number of notches, a number of clasping members, and a number of first and second latching members. The main body defining a number of first through openings. The number of clasping members includes a first elastic arm defining a second through opening and comprising a first hook. The first latching member includes a second elastic arm and a second hook. The second latching member includes a third elastic arm and a third hook. The first hook clasps the bottom of the ring. The second hook clasps an edge of the corresponding second through opening. The third hook clasps an edge of the corresponding first through opening.
US08240888B2	LED unit An LED unit includes an LED and a lens receiving the LED. The LED includes a chassis, a base on the chassis and an envelope fixed on the base. The lens has two crossed grooves, a hole and a chamber sequentially defined in a bottom face the lens, along an upward direction thereof. The chassis of the LED can be selected to fit in one of the two grooves. The base of the LED is engaged in the hole of the lens, and the envelope of the LED is received in the chamber of the lens.
US08240886B2	Illumination device with anti-glare function An illumination device for illuminating a road includes a lamp holder and a light source. The lamp holder has an inner surface and a cavity defined by the inner surface. The light source is arranged in the cavity, and light emitted from the light source is redirected by the lamp holder to establish an illuminating area on the road. The illuminating area is consisted of a first angular range and a second angular range which are located at two opposite sides of the lamp holder along a lengthwise direction of the road. The first angular range is directed at an angle Φ1 from a downward vertical line through the lamp holder, and the second angular range is directed at an angle Φ2 from the downward vertical line, wherein, Φ2>Φ1, Φ1≦45°.
US08240885B2	Thermal management of LED lighting systems Embodiments of the invention provide thermal management systems for LED light fixtures. In one embodiment, an LED track light fixture includes a lighting assembly, a fixture housing mounted to the lighting assembly and having a plurality of apertures, and a mounting structure that affixes the fixture housing to a track. In this embodiment, the lighting assembly includes a heat sink, a reflector, at least one light emitting diode, and a synthetic jet actuator. In a second exemplary embodiment, a sealed, enclosed LED light fixture includes a lighting assembly, along with an enclosure and a fixture housing surrounding the lighting assembly. In this embodiment, the lighting assembly includes at least one light emitting diode, a thermoelectric cooler, and at least one heat sink. In some embodiments, a forced air cooling device may be located between the printed circuit board and the thermoelectric cooler.
US08240884B2	Module structure of the LED lights and radiator The module structure of the LED light and radiator comprises a cover and a light module. The penetrating holes and retaining holes are set at the bottom of the container in the inner side of the bottom cover. The screw holes are set around the fitting holes. The light module comprises an aluminum base set with many screw holes corresponding with the screw holes on the bottom cover, a radiator, LED lights which are on the circuit board and a lamp mask. A circuit board thereon set a lamp mask with screws is below the aluminum base, and the radiator is set on the aluminum base.
US08240882B2	Light emitting diode module and method for making the same A light emitting diode module includes: a printed circuit board including an upper circuit layer, a lower metal layer, an insulating layer, and a plurality of through holes; a metallic heat sink formed with a plurality of chip-support portions and disposed below the printed circuit board; a thermal connection layer that has lower and upper surfaces respectively bonded to the heat sink and the lower metal layer of the printed circuit board; and a plurality of light emitting diode chips, each of which is placed in contact with and bonded to one of the chip-support portions and each of which is electrically connected to the upper circuit layer. A method for making the light emitting diode module is also disclosed.
US08240881B2	Light-emiting device package A light-emitting device package is disclosed and comprises at least one light-emitting device and a carrier. The light-emitting device includes a light-emitting diode chip attached to a first surface of a transparent substrate, wherein the chip comprises a first type conductivity semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second type conductivity semiconductor layer. The carrier comprises a p electrode, an n electrode, a platform and a reflective inside wall. The transparent substrate of the light-emitting device is attached to the platform by an adhering layer. In addition, an angle between the first surface of the transparent substrate and the platform is not equal to zero degree, and the better is about 90 degree.
US08240877B2	Led lighting device including limit switch The lighting device includes: a first body including a first surface, a second body including a second surface, a plurality of light emitting devices disposed on the first surface and the second surface, a coupler that is disposed at least one of the ends of the first and the second bodies, and a limit switch connecting and is connecting electric power supplied to the plurality of the light emitting diodes in accordance with change of a distance between the first body and the second body.
US08240876B2	Lighting fixture with adjustable light pattern and foldable house structure A lighting fixture includes a reflector reflecting light from a fluorescent lamp to a desired direction, and one or more lamp connectors connecting the reflector to rotatably and detachably coupling with the fluorescent lamp, wherein the reflector is adapted to selectively rotate with respect to an axis of the fluorescent lamp for reflecting light from the fluorescent lamp so as to change a light pattern of the fluorescent lamp towards an opening of the foldable housing. The foldable housing includes two side frames and a retention frame extended between the two side frames to retain a distance therebetween, wherein the side frames are pivotally coupled with the retention frame to fold between an unfolded position to retain the fluorescent lamp in longitudinal position and a folded position to form a compact size for storage and transportation.
US08240875B2	Solid state linear array modules for general illumination An illumination module includes a longitudinal support member including a base portion and a pair of sidewalls extending from the base portion that together define a channel that extends in a longitudinal direction. A printed circuit board (PCB) on the base portion extends in the longitudinal direction within the channel. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are on the PCB in a linear array. A reflective sheet is within and extends across the channel, and includes a plurality of holes that correspond with locations of the LEDs on the PCB, and the LEDs are at least partially within the holes. An optical film extends across the channel above the reflective sheet and defines an optical cavity between the reflective sheet and the optical film. The optical film, the reflective sheet and the sidewalls of the support member are configured to recycle light in the optical cavity by reflecting some light emitted by the LEDs back into the optical cavity and transmitting some light emitted by the LEDs out of the optical cavity.
US08240873B2	Universal light emitting diode illumination device and method Disclosed is a method and apparatus for providing a light emitting diode and driving circuitry integrated into a component module that will retrofit common incandescent lightbulb applications. The disclosed embodiments will perform with high efficiency at a wide operating voltage range with a very small size allowing for the incorporation within the envelope and form of existing lightbulb bases. Therefore, a single universal LED light bulb module can be used to replace the dozens of conventional LED and incandescent lights currently being used. The electronic circuitries used to drive the LEDs are extremely compact and consequently can be incorporated in nearly any standard bulb base.
US08240872B1	Security safe interior lighting system An interior lighting system for a security safe is taught which incorporates a power supply that is located within the safe and converts alternating current power to low voltage direct current. An electrical switch is in communication with the power supply and mechanically interfaces with the safe door boltworks which energize the lighting system when the safe door is unlocked and opened. A number of LED lights are disposed within the door edge and connected to the switch. When the door is hinged open the LED lights are energized through the switch and illuminate the interior of the safe until the door is closed and bolted.
US08240864B2	Planar light source apparatus having reflective surfaces A planar light source apparatus includes a plurality of elongated lighting elements disposed in a common plane, and a plurality of mirror reflectors arranged perpendicular to the common plane and facing the lighting elements. The lighting elements are equidistantly spaced from each other. The lighting elements face a same direction. The mirror reflectors frame the lighting elements. The mirror reflectors each have a reflecting surface facing the lighting elements. The reflecting surfaces are perpendicular to the common plane. A distance between one of the reflectors and its nearest lighting element is maximum of half the distance between two adjacent lighting elements.
US08240863B2	Illuminant device In a chassis which has a lid plate closing an opening portion of a frame part and in which a plurality of lamps are juxtaposed, the lid plate includes a plurality of plate bodies juxtaposed with their end parts superposed on each other and a connecting unit connects the superposed end parts of the plate bodies and the superposed end parts of the plate bodies, respectively.
US08240862B1	Task light A task light assembly comprises a light head comprising a shade with an illuminator mounted therein, a support configured to suspend the light head above a work area and an adaptor mounted to the support and adjustably receiving at least a portion of the light head for lateral movement of the light head lateral position with respect to the support. The light head can be configured to project an asymmetrical light pattern onto a desired location on a work area and the asymmetrical light pattern can have a maximum intensity located laterally beyond the light head lateral position.
US08240861B2	Illumination device for a microscope An illumination device for a microscope, in particular for an operation microscope, has a light source with an improved lifetime. The light source is in the form of a gas discharge lamp having a microwave generator, a microwave waveguide and an electrodeless bulb. The bulb contains a luminescent material and is coupled to the microwave waveguide so that microwaves can stimulate the luminescent material to emit light.
US08240860B2	Three dimensional image dial for instrument cluster An indicating instrument, such as for an instrument cluster, may employ a dial with numerous lighted indicia and numerous lighted graduations, to individually demark the indicia. The indicia and graduations may be viewable on a first side of the dial, while on a second side of the dial, a frustum of a rectangular pyramid may be located immediately behind, relative to a viewer, each graduation. A light emitting diode may provide light into and through the protruding frustum, and a reflector case mounted to the dial may direct light from the light emitting diode into the frustum. Light directed into the frustum may pass through the frustum, through the graduation, and out of the graduation to the first side of the dial. Instead of a frustum, a recessed portion with four sloping and converging sides into the dial may be utilized to produce an illuminated graduation with a three-dimensional appearance.
US08240853B2	Systems for imaging structures of a subject and related methods Systems for imaging structures of a subject are provided. The subject has an optical axis, a pupil, and a nodal point. The system includes an image capture device; a first structure including a mount for the subject to be imaged by the image capture device, the first structure providing at least two rotational degrees of freedom; a second structure including a mount for the image capture device, the second structure providing at least two translational degrees of freedom; and a means for aligning the image capture device in relation to the optical axis, the pupil, and the nodal point of the subject.
US08240851B2	Unitary vision testing center System and methods for testing and/or training a subject's visual ability are provided. More specifically, the method may include testing various aspects of the subject's visual acuity, such as clarity, contrast, tracking, etc. By using various tests, a more efficient examination may be administered. In accordance with the invention, an individual may be tested using methods of testing and/or training at a unitary center, where the unitary center is capable of presenting visual tests to the individual, receiving input from the individual, and processing the received input. Such a unitary test center may further be configurable, so that the tests administered may vary based on the needs of the individual. The received input may then, for example, be used to compute data related to the user's visual acuity, both overall and for each individual test.
US08240834B2	Ink for ink-jet recording, ink cartridge, and ink-jet recording apparatus An ink for ink-jet recording may contain a coloring agent and a marker. The coloring agent may contain a pigment. The marker may have a detector absorption peak for detecting the marker at a wavelength that is different from a wavelength of the maximum absorption peak of the coloring agent. The coloring agent and the marker may be contained in the ink in amounts that satisfy the following conditions (I) to (III): (I) about 1.2≦A2/A3; (II) color difference (ΔE)≦about 3; and (III) about 1≦A2≦about 10 in terms of a measurement optical path length of 1 mm, where A2 denotes an absorbance at the wavelength of the detector absorption peak of the marker, A3 denotes a baseline absorbance at the wavelength of the detector absorption peak of the marker.
US08240832B2	Head unit and printer A head unit has a supply tank provided above a plurality of heads, for storing ink and a collecting part having an internal space into which ink flows from the plurality of heads. In the head unit, a plurality of ink inlet pipes serving as a plurality of passages leading from the supply tank to the plurality of heads have the same shape and the same resistance and a plurality of ink outlet pipes serving as a plurality of passages from the plurality of heads to the collecting part have the same shape and the same resistance. This equalizes respective flow rates of ink and respective pressures of ink at nozzles in the plurality of heads. As a result, it is possible to suppress variation in landing positions and the like of ink with respect to the nozzles among the plurality of heads.
US08240830B2	No spill, feed controlled removable container for delivering pelletized substances A solid printer includes a solid ink container that expels solid ink units in predetermined amounts for delivery to a melting device within the printer. The solid ink container includes a housing in which solid ink pellets are stored, an opening in the housing through which solid ink units are expelled, a first moveable member located within the housing proximate to the opening, the first moveable member being configured to move solid ink units through the opening, and a second moveable member located within the housing, the second moveable member being configured to move solid ink pellets to the first moveable member to enable the first moveable member to expel solid ink pellets through the opening in the housing.
US08240829B2	Solid ink melter assembly A solid phase change ink melter assembly in a phase change ink image producing machine having an array of a plurality of spaced apart fins, the array defining a top face for receiving the solid pieces of phase change ink, a bottom face for discharging melted ink, and opposite melter surfaces for melting the solid pieces in contact therewith. The assembly further includes a number of heat transfer devices extending through and in heat transfer contact with the plurality of fins, the heat transfer devices including a heating element for heating the device. The bottom edge of the fins defines a plurality of apexes which serve as drip points for molten phase change ink.
US08240821B2	Ink cartridge refilling Apparatus for refilling and subsequently sealing an ink jet cartridge. The apparatus including a body with a pointed distal end which can be pushed through a tape covering the fill hole for the cartridge. A recess is provided in the proximal end of the apparatus for connection to a syringe or a feed pipe. A passage connects with the recess and also a radial passage adjacent the distal end of the apparatus. A resilient sleeve locates in a circumferential recess extending around the apparatus and covering the end of the passage in a rest condition to provide a one way valve.
US08240816B2	Ink fill port for inkjet ink tank A detachably mountable ink tank for an inkjet printhead, the ink tank includes a housing for enclosing a reservoir for liquid ink; a rim extending outwardly from the housing; an ink supply port enclosed within the rim; and an ink fill port enclosed within the rim, wherein the ink fill port is configured to receive an ink fill tube to provide liquid ink to the reservoir.
US08240814B2	Printing head A printing head, which can suppress the occurrence of cracks in a printing element substrate, even if accidentally dropped, includes the printing element substrate, an ink flow passage and a sheet-shaped portion comprising a rectangular major surface. A rear surface side of the major surface of the sheet-shaped portion is provided with a space formed separately from the ink flow passage. A surface adjacent to the major surface is provided with an opening of the space formed therein, and the sheet-shaped portion is provided with a concave portion formed on the rear surface side of two regions between the printing element substrate and two corner portions arranged proximate to the opening.
US08240813B2	Directed flow drip bib for an inkjet printhead A drip bib has been configured for use with a printhead of an imaging device that facilitates removal of purged ink from a printhead. The drip bib includes a plate having a front face, a rear face, an upper edge, and a lower edge, and at least one elongated recess on the rear face of the plate and positioned along the upper edge of the plate, the at least one elongated recess enabling the front face of the plate to be recessed with respect to the faceplate of the printhead to which the drip bib is mounted.
US08240807B2	Calibration process for multi-die print cartridge One exemplary embodiment is a method that performs a calibration process for determining a number of spit and wipe operations to place each of multiple dies on a print cartridge in a stable state.
US08240804B2	Printing apparatus and printing control method The present invention uses a temperature sensor to sense the temperature of a print head configured to eject ink, and senses the environmental temperature of a printing apparatus. The temperature of the print head is corrected based on the environmental temperature only if information from the temperature sensor is different from the last information acquired.
US08240801B2	Determining positioning of a handheld image translation device Systems, apparatuses, and methods for a handheld image translation device are described herein. The handheld image translation device may include a position module to determine positioning information including both translation and rotation information based at least in part on captured navigational measurements. A print module of the handheld image translation device may cause print forming substances to be deposited based at least in part on the positioning information. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

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