Document Document Title
US08263744B2 Binding proteins that bind to EpCAM linked to an effector molecule
An optimized nucleic acid sequence encoding the immunoconjugate VB6-845 is described Modifications to the original VB6-845 include changes in the nucleic acid sequence encoding the VH region, CH region, CL region, VL region, the furm linker and the bouganm toxin. The optimized VB6-845 displays improved recombinant protein expression over the original in an E. coli expression system.
US08263741B2 Artificial antibody polypeptides
The present invention provides a fibronectin type III (Fn3) molecule, wherein the Fn3 contains a stabilizing mutation. The present invention also provides Fn3 polypeptide monobodies, nucleic acid molecules encoding monobodies, and variegated nucleic acid libraries encoding such monobodies. Also provided are methods of preparing a Fn3 polypeptide monobody, and kits to perform the methods.
US08263738B2 Estrogen receptors and methods of use
The present invention provides isolated polypeptides having an amino acid sequence having at least 70% identity to SEQ ID NO:20, wherein the polypeptide has ER-α36 activity. The invention further provides methods for identifying agents that bind to such polypeptides, methods for detecting such polypeptides, and methods for altering the activity of such polypeptides. Also provided are antibodies that specifically bind to an amino acid sequence depicted at SEQ ID NO:1, or an immunogenic fragment thereof, and methods for making and using such antibodies.
US08263736B2 Compounds and their effects on feeding behaviour
The invention provides a compound of formula (I): X-PYY* (3-36) (I) wherein X is selected from H, PYY1-2 (ie Tyr Pro) and D-Allo-Ue; PYY*(3-36) representing PYY (3-36) in which one or more residues is replaced by an acylated lysine group, the acyl group being selected from: CO—C1-20 alkyl, CO—C2-20 alkenyl, CO—C5-10 aryl and CO—C5-10 ar-C1-20 alkyl; a variant or derivative thereof; or a salt or solvate thereof. The compounds are effective in inducing satiety and suppressing appetite and they are thus useful in treating various diseases, including obesity.
US08263732B2 Photo-alignment film and liquid crystal display element
[Object] To obtain an alignment film having excellent alignment stability of a liquid crystal and a high voltage holding ratio by application of linearly polarized light to a polyamic acid having a specific structure and then imidization under heat.[Solving Means] A photo-alignment film is obtained by: applying a polyamic acid solution on a substrate, where the polyamic acid contains, in its main chain, at least a group having unsaturated groups having 1 to 3 carbon-carbon double bonds or 1 to 4 triple bonds; vaporizing a solvent from a film formed; applying linearly polarized light to the film after the vaporization of the solvent; and then heating the film to imidize the polyamic acid.
US08263730B2 Resin composition for printing plate
Disclosed is a polymer having excellent solvent resistance which can be produced by using a polycarbonate diol having a repeating unit represented by the formula (1) and/or (2), having a hydroxyl group at both termini, and having a number average molecular weight of from 300 to 50,000: wherein R1 represents a linear or branched hydrocarbon group having 2 to 50 carbon atoms; and n represents an integer of 2 to 50, wherein R2 represents a linear or branched hydrocarbon group having 10 to 50 carbon atoms.
US08263728B2 Method for producing polyester resin
A method for producing polyester resin includes: esterifying an alcoholic component, and an acid component containing polyvalent carboxylic acid and/or an ester-forming derivative thereof in a reaction solution. A condition of reaction pressure is changed from a pressurized state to a normal pressure state, or to a depressurized state under a condition (I) that an acid-based extent of reaction of the esterification is 76-94%, and a condition (II) that an undissolved acid component is present in the reaction solution.
US08263727B1 Polymers made from polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes acetylene-containing compounds
A compound having the formula below. Each R is methyl or phenyl; R2 comprises one or more of silane, siloxane, and aromatic groups; n is a nonnegative integer; and m is 1 or 2. The dashed bond is a single bond and the double dashed bond is a double bond, or the dashed bond is a double bond and the double dashed bond is a triple bond. A polymer made by a hydrosilation reaction of a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane having pendant siloxane groups with an acetylene- and silicon-containing compound having at least two vinyl or ethynyl groups, and a crosslinked polymer thereof. The reaction occurs between the pendant siloxane groups and the vinyl or ethynyl groups.
US08263724B2 Fluorine-containing surface treating agent and an article surface-treated therewith
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a surface treating agent which provides a surface where stain does not easily adhere, does not stand out and is easily wiped off.The present invention is a perfluoropolyether group-containing polyorganosiloxane represented by the following formula (1) and a surface treating agent comprising the same, Ak(R)nZ-Q-Rf-Q-Z(R)nAk  (1) wherein Rf is a divalent perfluoropolyether group; Q is a divalent group linking Rf with Z; Z is a polyorganosiloxane group having at least three siloxane bonds with its valency being trivalent to undecavalent; R is a monovalent organic group having 8 to 40 carbon atoms, n is an integer of from 1 to 8; A is a group represented by the following formula (2); and k is an integer of from 1 to 9, provided that a total of n+k=the valency of Z−1 wherein R′ is an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or a phenyl group; X is a hydrolysable group, a is 2 or 3; and b is an integer of from 2 to 10.
US08263718B2 Method of free radically polymerizing vinyl monomers
A method for the polymerization of free radically polymerizable vinyl monomers involves polymerizing free radically (co)polymerizable vinyl monomers in a batch reaction under essentially adiabatic conditions, and utilizing scavenger monomer to reduce undesirable residual monomer.
US08263714B2 Epoxy resin composition, cured article thereof, semiconductor sealing material, novel phenol resin, novel epoxy resin, method for producing novel phenol resin, and method for producing novel epoxy resin
An epoxy resin composition including an epoxy resin and a curing agent as essential components, in which the curing agent comprises a phenol resin which has each structural moiety of a phenolic hydroxyl group-containing aromatic hydrocarbon group (P), an alkoxy group-containing aromatic hydrocarbon group (B) and a divalent aralkyl group (X), and also has, in a molecular structure, a structure in which the phenolic hydroxyl group-containing aromatic hydrocarbon group (P) and the alkoxy group-containing aromatic hydrocarbon group (B) are bonded with the other phenolic hydroxyl group-containing aromatic hydrocarbon group (P) or alkoxy group-containing aromatic hydrocarbon group (B) via the divalent aralkyl group (X).
US08263705B2 Method for preparing polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinyl acetate latex by use of the bottom residue from vinyl acetate production process
A method for preparing polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinyl acetate latex by use of a kettle bottom residue from vinyl acetate production process includes: distilling a kettle bottom residue of vinyl acetate to obtain a crude acetic acid and a distillation residue; multiple washing the distillation residue with water under boiling condition to obtain a washing residue containing polyvinyl acetate; dissolving a first portion of the washing residue into a first solvent to obtain a first polyvinyl acetate solution; subjecting the first polyvinyl acetate solution to saponification with an alkali aqueous solution; dissolving a second portion of the washing residue into a second solvent; and dispersing the second polyvinyl acetate solution into the polyvinyl alcohol solution, and optionally recovering the solvent to obtain a polyvinyl acetate latex; or adding the second polyvinyl acetate solution into an emulsion reaction system and optionally recovering vinyl acetate, to obtain a polyvinyl acetate latex.
US08263704B2 Bioabsorbable surgical composition
Bioabsorbable macromer compositions are provided including a polymeric component possessing a lipid segment which enhances the affinity of the macromer composition to targeted tissue. In some embodiments, the polymeric component can be combined with a second component. The resulting bioabsorbable macromer composition can be employed as an adhesive or sealant for medical/surgical uses.
US08263703B2 One-component self-crosslinking reactive siloxane-terminated polypropylene oxide emulsion and process for preparing the same
The present invention is related to an one component self-crosslinking reactive siloxane-terminated polypropylene oxide emulsion and a process for preparing the same. In the inventive process, using a reactive siloxane-terminated polypropylene oxide (SPPO) as raw material and a polyether-modified polysiloxane as protection colloid, a waterborne SPPO emulsion with excellent storage stability and freeze-thaw stability was prepared through phase inversion emulsification in the presence of composite emulsifying agent. And this process has some advantages such as low capital investment for equipment, simple procedure, easy operation and low production cost. And the obtained SPPO emulsion can be used as basic raw materials for the production of environmental friendly waterborne products such as paints, binders, sealing agents etc.
US08263702B2 Fuser coating composition and method of manufacture
The present teachings include a coating composition of an aqueous dispersion of fluorine-containing particles and poly(alkylene carbonate). A method of making a fuser member and the fuser member resulting there from is also provided.
US08263701B2 Polypropylene resin composition and molded article
The polypropylene resin composition is disclosed which includes 50-94% by weight of a polypropylene resin having a specific structure, 1-25% by weight of an ethylene-α-olefin copolymer rubber composed of an ethylene-α-olefin (C4-20) copolymer rubber having a density of 0.85-0.91 g/cm3 and an MFR of 0.9-20 g/10 min and/or an ethylene-α-olefin (C5-20) copolymer rubber having a density of 0.85-0.91 g/cm3 and MFR of not less than 0.01 but less than 0.9 g/10 min, and 5-25% by weight of an inorganic filler.
US08263699B2 Method for dispersing alkyd resins with associative polymers in water, formulations thus obtained and aqueous paints containing same
The invention consists of a method for dispersion in water of an alkyd resin, by means of a polymer having associative hydrophobic groups. The formulations obtained then enable a water-based alkyd paint to be manufactured, without having recourse to surfactants or solvents.
US08263698B2 Carbon nanofiber, method for production thereof, method for production of carbon fiber composite material using carbon nanofiber, and carbon fiber composite material
A method of producing a carbon fiber composite material includes a first step and a second step. The first step includes oxidizing first carbon nanofibers produced by a vapor growth method to obtain second carbon nanofibers having an oxidized surface. The second step includes mixing the second carbon nanofibers into an elastomer, and uniformly dispersing the carbon nanofibers in the elastomer by applying a shear force to obtain the carbon fiber composite material. The second carbon nanofibers obtained by the first step have a surface oxygen concentration measured by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of 2.6 to 4.6 atm %.
US08263697B2 Heat-resistant resin composition
Disclosed is a resin composition comprising an aromatic polyamide having a terminal amino group concentration of 5 to 45 μmoles/g inclusive, polyphenylene ether, a compatibilizing agent for the polyamide and the polyphenylene ether, and a crystal nucleating agent. The composition is extremely useful in an automotive body panel (e.g., an automotive fender), an SMT-compliant component or the like.
US08263687B2 Coating system
A curable composition comprising a) an epoxy resin containing on average more than one epoxy group per molecule, and b) as curing agent a hybrid hardener, whereby said hardener is a blend of b1) an aminic compound selected from aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, araliphatic amines, imidazoline group-containing amidoamines based on mono- or polybasic acids, adducts of said amines or amidoamines made from glycidyl compounds, adducts of said amines or amidoamines with cyclic carbonates, whereby said aminic compound contains, on average per molecule, at least two reactive hydrogen atoms bound to nitrogen atoms, and b2) a polyphenol novolac, and wherein the polyphenol novolac is used in an amount of from 30% to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of hardener blend comprising b1) and b2), useful for rapid setting and protective coatings and adhesives in application fields like civil engineering, marine, architectural and maintenance.
US08263681B2 Dental compositions with natural tooth fluorescence
The invention features a dental composition containing a polycyclic aromatic compound, such as 2-ethyl 9,10-dimethoxy anthracene (EDMOA), in an amount that provides the composition with fluorescence mimicking that of natural teeth.
US08263676B2 Radiation and melt treated ultra high molecular weight polyethylene prosthetic devices
A medical prosthesis for use within the body which is formed of radiation treated ultra high molecular weight polyethylene having substantially no detectable free radicals, is described. Preferred prostheses exhibit reduced production of particles from the prosthesis during wear of the prosthesis, and are substantially oxidation resistant. Methods of manufacture of such devices and material used therein are also provided.
US08263675B2 Photosensitive resin composition for color filter and color filter made using the same
The present invention relates to a photosensitive resin composition for a color filter and a color filter fabricated using the same. The photosensitive resin composition includes (a) an acrylic-based resin, (b) a photopolymerizable monomer, (c) a photopolymerization initiator, (d) a pigment, and (e) a solvent. The acrylic-based resin is a copolymer including a repeating unit of an ethylenic unsaturated monomer including a carboxyl group and a repeating unit of an ethylenic unsaturated monomer including an alkoxy 4-oxo butanoic acid group. The photosensitive resin composition for a color filter can have residue removing characteristics, and is capable of forming fine pixels and providing a color filter having high resolution.
US08263673B2 Closed-cell foamed rubber sheet, and method for production thereof
The present invention provides a closed-cell foamed rubber sheet whose sealability is less likely to decrease even after long-time use and which has excellent water resistance. The closed-cell foamed rubber sheet of the present invention comprises a rubber-based resin, and is provided by the steps of: providing a foamable resin composition containing the rubber-based resin and a foaming agent; irradiating the foamable resin composition with ionizing radiation to cross-link the foamable resin composition; and foaming the cross-linked foamable resin composition. In the case where the foamable resin composition further contains 0.5 parts by weight or more of a powdery additive other than the foaming agent per 100 parts by weight of the rubber-based resin, the rubber-based resin preferably contains a rubber-based resin ingredient which is in a liquid state at normal temperature.
US08263672B2 Triblock copolymers with acidic groups
Triblock copolymers useful for forming ion conductive membranes are provided. The triblock copolymers are characterized by having either a hydrophobic-hydrophilic -hydrophobic or a hydrophilic-hydrophobic-hydrophilic polymer sequence that induces a microphase separated morphology. Variations in which the hydrophilic polymer sequence component includes either acid groups or salts of acid groups are also disclosed. Methods for forming an ion conductive membrane from the triblock copolymers are provided.
US08263667B2 Nutritional supplement for use under physiologically stressful conditions
A nutritional supplement for use in physiologically stressful conditions is disclosed. The nutritional supplement may include one or more of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D3, vitamin C, vitamin B1, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, vitamin B6, biotin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B12, magnesium, zinc, selenium, chromium, copper, iron, alpha lipoic acid, lutein and lycopene.
US08263658B2 Anthranilic acid derivatives
Compounds of formula (I) are provided, wherein X is CH═CH, CH2O wherein the oxygen atom is bound to ring B, or OCH2 wherein the oxygen atom is bound to ring A; Y is hydrogen, straight or branched C1-C6 alkyl or a pharmaceutically acceptable inorganic cation; R1 is ethyl or cyclopropyl; and R2 and R3 are the same or different and are selected from F, Cl, Br, CF3 and OCF3. The compounds are useful for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, organ transplant rejection, and malignant neoplasia. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, methods of using the compounds, and methods for preparing the compounds are also provided.
US08263654B2 Compositions and methods for skin treatment
Compositions for the treatment of the skin. The compositions reduce and/or reverse the visible appearance of skin damage. In the preferred embodiment, the composition includes Retinyl Palmitate Polypeptide; Ascorbylmethylsilanol Pectinate; Tocopheryl Polypeptide; Cholecalciferol Polypeptide; and Niacinamide Polypeptide.
US08263651B2 Use of cis-epoxyeicosatrienoic acids and inhibitors of soluble epoxide hydrolase to treat conditions mediated by PBR, CB2, and NK2 receptors
The invention relates to the discovery that cis-epoxyeicosatraenoic acids (EETs) bind to and act as agonists of peripheral benzodiazepine receptor and the cannabinoid CB2 receptor. The invention provides methods of reducing symptoms of conditions whose activity is mediated by these receptors, including inhibiting anxiety, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells expressing peripheral benzodiazepine receptors, and reducing oxygen radical damage to cells, by contacting the cells with a cis-epoxyeicosantrienoic acid, an inhibitor of soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), or both. The invention further provides methods of inhibiting irritable bowel syndrome by administering to individuals with inhibiting irritable bowel syndrome a cis-epoxyeicosantrienoic acid, an inhibitor of soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), or both. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering to the individual a nucleic acid which inhibits expression of sEH.
US08263650B2 Microbiologically sound and stable solutions of gamma-hydroxybutyrate salt for the treatment of narcolepsy
Disclosed are formulations of gamma-hydroxybutyrate in an aqueous medium that are resistant to microbial growth. Also disclosed are formulations of gammahydroxybutyrate that are also resistant to the conversion into GBL. Disclosed are methods to treat sleep disorders, including narcolepsy, with these stable formulations of GHB. The present invention also provides methods to treat alcohol and opiate withdrawal, reduced levels of growth hormone, increased intracranial pressure, and physical pain in a patient.
US08263647B2 Treatment of sleep disturbances
The present invention provides a new composition for treating pain-associated sleep disturbances, especially shortened sleep duration, comprising ibuprofen and diphenhydramine. The composition is further prepared as a bilayer tablet or caplet, or alternatively as a soft gelatin capsule composition, to prevent interaction between the active ingredients.
US08263645B2 Disodium cromoglycate compositions and methods for administering same
Methods for the treatment of patients that are afflicted with pulmonary conditions, such as a pulmonary disease are described. The methods may involve the administration of aerosolized medicines. More specifically, compositions including disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) and therapeutic methods that include the pulmonary administration of such compositions are described.
US08263644B2 Cytotoxic xanthone compounds
The present invention relates to xanthone compounds isolated from the plant Psorospermum molluscum Hochr. (Clusiaceae), a Madagascar plant, which are potent cytotoxic agents.
US08263641B2 Compounds that modulate intracellular calcium
Described herein are compounds of Formula I and pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, which modulate the activity of store-operated calcium (SOC) channels. Also describe herein are methods of using such SOC channel modulators, alone and in combination with other compounds, for treating diseases or conditions that would benefit from inhibition of SOC channel activity.
US08263639B2 Multifunctional metal-chelating ligands
Disclosed herein are the compounds shown below and methods of their synthesis. The value m is a positive integer. R comprises an alkyl chain or an alkoxy chain. Each X comprises a metal binding group. Each E is a methoxy group or comprises a biomolecule reactive group or a residue thereof. E optionally comprises a protecting group. The value n is a positive integer. The value p is zero or one. Y is OCH3, OH, NH2, or COOH.
US08263637B2 Methods for treatment of multiple myeloma using cyclopropane carboxylic acid {2-[(is)-1-(3-ethoxy-4-methoxy-phenyl)-2-methanesulfonyl-ethyl]-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1 h-isoindol-4-yl}-amide
Methods of treating, preventing and/or managing cancer as well as and diseases and disorders associated with, or characterized by, undesired angiogenesis are disclosed. Specific methods encompass the administration of a selective cytokine inhibitory drug alone or in combination with a second active ingredient. The invention further relates to methods of reducing or avoiding adverse side effects associated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy or immunotherapy which comprise the administration of a selective cytokine inhibitory drug. Pharmaceutical compositions, single unit dosage forms, and kits suitable for use in methods of the invention are also disclosed.
US08263632B2 Aminopyridine derivatives having Aurora A selective inhibitory action
The present invention relates to a compound of Formula (I): wherein: n is 0 or 1; X is 0 or CH2; R1 is H or C1-2 alkyl; R2 is H or C1-3 alkyl; R3 and R4 are each independently H or C1-2 alkyl, where the alkyl may be substituted with one to three of the same or different substituents selected from R10; R5 is H or OCH3; R10 is F or Cl; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester thereof
US08263624B2 Aryl-substituted heterocycles, and use thereof
The invention relates to aryl-substituted heterocycles, to processes for their preparation, to their use for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases and to their use for preparing medicaments for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases, in particular of thromboembolic disorders.
US08263623B2 Triazol derivatives useful for the treatment of diseases
The invention relates to compounds of formula (1) and to processes for the preparation of, intermediates used in the preparation of, compositions containing and the uses of, such derivatives. The compounds according to the present invention are useful in numerous diseases, disorders and conditions, in particular inflammatory, allergic and respiratory diseases, disorders and conditions.
US08263622B2 Fused-ring derivative and medical application of same
The present invention provides compounds useful as agents for the prevention or treatment of a disease associated with abnormal plasma uric acid level and the like. The present invention relates to fused ring derivatives represented by the following formula (I) having xanthine oxidase inhibitory activities and useful as agents for the prevention or treatment of a disease associated with abnormality of plasma uric acid level, prodrugs thereof, salts thereof or the like. In the formula (I), X1 and X2 represent CH or N; ring U represents aryl or heteroaryl; m represents integral number from 0 to 2; n represents integral number from 0 to 3; R1 represents a hydroxy group, amino or C1-6 alkyl; R2 represents C1-6 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy C1-6 alkyl or the like.
US08263621B2 Tartrate derivatives for use as coagulation factor IXa inhibitors
The invention relates to the compounds of formula I having antithrombotic activity which especially inhibits blood clotting factor IXa, to methods for producing the same and to the use thereof as drugs.
US08263620B2 Oxadiazole derivatives active on sphingosine-1-phosphate (SIP)
The present invention relates to novel oxadiazole derivatives having pharmacological activity, processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in the treatment of various disorders.
US08263619B2 Indazoles, benzothiazoles, benzoisothiazoles, benzisoxazoles, and preparation and uses thereof
The present invention relates generally to the field of ligands for nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nACh receptors), activation of nACh receptors, and the treatment of disease conditions associated with defective or malfunctioning nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, especially of the brain. Further, this invention relates to novel compounds (e.g., indazoles and benzothiazoles), which act as ligands for the α7 nACh receptor subtype, methods of preparing such compounds, compositions containing such compounds, and methods of use thereof.
US08263613B2 Salts, prodrugs and polymorphs of fab I inhibitors
In part, the present invention is directed to antibacterial compounds and salts thereof.
US08263612B2 Viral inhibitors
Pyrrolo[2,3-c]pyridine or pyrrolo[3,2-c]pyridine compounds having the general formula (A), wherein the dashed lines, X, Y and R1 through R5 are as defined in the specification. The compounds are useful in the prophylaxis or treatment of viral infections.
US08263611B2 Hydrochloride salt of an azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane derivative
The invention relates to a hydrochloride salt of (1R,2R,3S,5S)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-[(methyloxy)methyl]-8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane, uses of the salt as a medicament in the treatment inter alia of disorders of the central nervous system and pharmaceutical compositions and dosage forms comprising the salt.
US08263610B2 Substituted imidazolyl-5,6-dihydrobenzo[N]isoquinoline compounds
The present invention relates to substituted imidazolyl-5,6-dihydrobenzo[n]isoquinoline compounds and methods of synthesizing these compounds. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing substituted imidazolyl-5,6-dihydrobenzo[n]isoquinoline compounds and methods of treating cell proliferative disorders, such as cancer, by administering these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions to subjects in need thereof.
US08263608B2 Melanocortin receptor-specific spiro-piperidine compounds
Melanocortin receptor-specific compounds of formula I below: wherein the variables are as defined in the specification, and enantiomers, diastereomers and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Compounds disclosed herein bind to one or more melanocortin receptors and may be an agonist, a partial agonist, an antagonist, an inverse agonist or an antagonist of an inverse agonist as to one or more melanocortin receptors, and may be employed for treatment of one or more melanocortin receptor-associated conditions or disorders.
US08263607B2 1-substituted tetrahydroisoquinoline compound
Provided is a compound useful as an N-type Ca2+ channel blocker. As a result of intensive studies of compounds having an action of blocking N-type Ca2+ channels, the present inventors found that a tetrahydroisoquinoline compound of the present invention having a substituent at the 1-position has an action of blocking the N-type Ca2+ channels, an antinociceptive pain action, an antineuropathic pain action, an abdominal pain-inhibitory action and an opioid-induced constipation-improving action, and the present invention has been completed based on these findings. The compound of the present invention can be used as a pharmaceutical composition for preventing and/or treating various pains such as neuropathic pain and nociceptive pain, headaches such as migraine and cluster headache, central nervous system diseases such as anxiety, depression, epilepsy, cerebral stroke and restless legs syndrome, abdominal symptoms such as abdominal pain and abdominal distension, stool abnormalities such as diarrhea and constipation, digestive system diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, urinary system diseases such as overactive bladder and interstitial cystitis, etc.
US08263594B2 Aryloxy and arylalkyleneoxy substituted imidazoquinolines
Imidazoquinoline compounds with an aryloxy or arylalkyleneoxy substituent at the 6, 7, 8, or 9-position, pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds, intermediates, and methods of use of these compounds as immunomodulators, for modulating cytokine biosynthesis in animals and in the treatment of diseases including viral and neoplastic diseases, are disclosed.
US08263591B2 Bicyclic amides for enhancing glutamatergic synaptic responses
This invention relates to compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for use in the prevention and treatment of cerebral insufficiency, including enhancement of receptor functioning in synapses in brain networks responsible for basic and higher order behaviors. These brain networks, which are involved in regulation of breathing, and cognitive abilities related to memory impairment, such as is observed in a variety of dementias, in imbalances in neuronal activity between different brain regions, as is suggested in disorders such as Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, respiratory depression, sleep apneas, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and affective or mood disorders, and in disorders wherein a deficiency in neurotrophic factors is implicated, as well as in disorders of respiration such as overdose of an alcohol, an opiate, an opioid, a barbiturate, an anesthetic, or a nerve toxin, or where the respiratory depression results form a medical condition such as central sleep apnea, stroke-induced central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, congenital hypoventilation syndrome, obesity hypoventilation syndrome, sudden infant death syndrome, Rett syndrome, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, Cheney-Stokes respiration, Ondines curse, Prader-Willi's syndrome and drowning, hi a particular aspect, the invention relates to bicyclic amide compounds useful for treatment of such conditions, and methods of using these compounds for such treatment.
US08263590B2 Pyrimidine derivatives
Novel pyrimidine derivatives of formula I to processes for their production, their use as pharmaceuticals and to pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
US08263589B2 Inhibitors of protein aggregation
The invention relates generally to the use of diaminophenothiazine compounds to inhibit or reverse the aggregation of synuclein, and for their use in the manufacture of medicaments for this purpose (e.g. for the treatment of Parkinson's Disease). Also provided are related methods of detecting or labelling of aggregated synuclein.
US08263585B2 Organic compounds
The present invention concerns a compound of formula (I) or a salt, suitably a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or solvate thereof, wherein the groups R1, R2, Ar′, A and B are defined in the description, to compositions and use of the compounds in the treatment of diseases ameloriated by inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase.
US08263582B2 Method of treating inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract using topical active corticosteroids
A method of administration of an oral pharmaceutical product to patients suffering from inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract comprises orally administering to the patient at least two different dosage forms of a therapeutically effective amount of a topically active corticosteroid, such as beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP).
US08263578B2 Stable bortezomib formulations
Multi-dose formulations for bortezomib are presented in which bortezomib has significantly improved stability. Especially preferred formulations include those in which bortezomib is in a liquid form suitable for injection, wherein the solvent system predominantly comprises propylene glycol. In other preferred aspects, bortezomib is present as a Lewis donor-acceptor complex with a hetero-bifunctional Lewis base.
US08263577B2 Water-soluble iron carbohydrate derivative complexes, the preparation thereof, and medicaments comprising them
Water-soluble iron-carbohydrate derivative complex obtainable from an aqueous iron(III) salt solution and an aqueous solution of the product of the oxidation and subsequent derivative of one or more maltodextrins with an aqueous hypochlorite solution at an alkaline pH value, wherein when one maltodextrin is used its dextrose equivalent is from 5 to 20 and when a mixture of a plurality of maltodextrins is used the dextrose equivalent of the mixture is from 5 to 20 and the dextrose equivalent of each individual maltodextrin in the mixture is from 2 to 40, and the subsequent derivative is carried out with a suitable reagent, process for the preparation thereof, and medicament for the treatment and prophylaxis of iron deficiency states.
US08263576B2 Non-natural sphingolipid analogs and uses thereof
This disclosure provides a composition useful for inhibiting caveolar endocytosis, plasma membrane microdomain formation, virus binding and infection, transmembrane signaling, and integrin function in cells. The composition is composed of non-natural analogs of sphingolipids, and may have applications in the treatment or amelioration of diseases associated with caveolar endocytosis, plasma membrane microdomain formation, transmembrane signaling, and integrin function. Methods for making and using the described composition are also provided.
US08263574B2 Topical formulations for the treatment of depression with S adenosyl methionine
Disclosed herein are topical formulations for treating depression with S adenosyl methionine (SAM-e) The topical formulations contain at least 35% wt/wt of SAM-e partially dissolved in aqueous and lipophilic phases of an emulsion and the emulsion is stable from separation of phases for a period of at least 30 days despite the high concentration of SAM-e. Also provided are methods for making such compositions and methods of treating depression using the same.
US08263572B2 RNAi modulation of RSV and therapeutic uses thereof
The present invention is based on the in vivo demonstration that RSV can be inhibited through intranasal administration of iRNA agents as well as by parenteral administration of such agents. Further, it is shown that effective viral reduction can be achieved with more than one virus being treated concurrently. Based on these findings, the present invention provides general and specific compositions and methods that are useful in reducing RSV mRNA levels, RSV protein levels and viral titers in a subject, e.g., a mammal, such as a human. These findings can be applied to other respiratory viruses.
US08263569B2 Gene silencing
Methods are disclosed for gene silencing (e.g. post transcriptional gene silencing) in an organism using small RNA molecules.
US08263566B2 Avermectin B1 and avermectin B1 monosaccharide derivatives having an alkoxymethyl substituent in the 4″-or 4′-position
What is described are a compound of the formula wherein n is 0 or 1; A-B is —CH═CH— or —CH2—CH2—; R1 is C1-C12-alkyl, C3-C8-cycloalkyl or C2-C12-alkenyl; R2 is for example C1-C12-alkyl, C2-C12-alkenyl or C2-C12-alkinyl; which are optionally substituted with one to five substituents selected from the group consisting of OH, halogen, CN, —N3, —NO2, C3-C8-Cycloalkyl, norbornylenyl-, C3-C8-Cycloalkenyl; C3-C8-halocycloalkyl, C1-C12-alkoxy, C1-C6-alkoxy-C1-C6-alkoxy, C3-C8-cycloalkoxy, C1-C12-haloalkoxy, C1-C12-alkylthio, C3-C8-cycloalkylthio, C1-C12-haloalkylthio, C1-C12-alkylsulfinyl, C3-C8-cycloalkylsulfinyl, C1-C12-haloalkylsulfinyl, C3-C8-halocycloalkylsulfinyl, C1-C12-alkylsulfonyl, C3-C8-cycloalkylsulfonyl, C1-C12-haloalkylsulfonyl, C3-C8-halocycloalkylsulfonyl, —NR4R6, —X—C(═Y)—R4, —X—C(═Y)—Z—R4, —P(═O)(OC1-C6-alkyl)2, aryl, heterocyclyl, aryloxy, arylthio and heterocyclyloxy; R3 is for example H, C1-C12-alkyl or C1-C12-alkyl which is optionally substituted and, where applicable, to E/Z isomers, mixtures of E/Z isomers and/or tautomers, in each case in free form or in salt form; a process for preparing and using these compounds and their tautomers; pesticides whose active compound is selected from these compounds and their tautomers; and a process for preparing these compounds and compositions, and the use of these compounds and compositions.
US08263564B2 Iron-carbohydrate complex compounds
The invention provides an iron-carbohydrate complex compound which is characterized by a content of iron(II). The invention also provides processes for the preparation of the iron-carbohydrate complex compound and the use thereof for treatment of iron deficiency anaemias.
US08263561B2 Composition and method for inhibiting, preventing, or ameliorating complications associated with ingestion of a medicinal, chemical, or biological substance or agent
The present invention relates to a therapeutic composition comprising a pharmaceutically active agent and a diarrheagenic agent, wherein the diarrheagenic agent induces diarrhea to reduce the harmful or undesired side effects of the pharmaceutically active agent when the pharmaceutically active agent is ingested at a dose higher than the prescribed dose.
US08263560B2 HPV 16 peptide vaccine for head and neck cancer
The present invention relates to Trojan antigens, and immunogenic compositions comprising the Trojan antigens. The present invention also relates to methods of generating an immune response in a subject using the Trojan antigens or immunogenic compositions. The present invention further relates to methods of treating squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) using the Trojan antigens and immunogenic compositions of the present invention.
US08263559B2 Feline granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor proteins
The present invention relates to canine interleukin-4, canine or feline Flt-3 ligand, canine or feline CD40, canine or feline CD154, canine interleukin-5, canine interleukin-13, feline interferon alpha, and/or feline GM-CSF proteins; to canine interleukin-4, canine or feline Flt-3 ligand, canine or feline CD40, canine or feline CD154, canine interleukin-5, canine interleukin-13, feline interferon alpha, and/or feline GM-CSF nucleic acid molecules, including those that encode canine interleukin-4, canine or feline Flt-3 ligand, canine or feline CD40, canine or feline CD154, canine interleukin-5, canine interleukin-13, feline interferon alpha, and/or feline GM-CSF proteins, respectively; to antibodies raised against such proteins; and to inhibitory compounds that regulate such proteins. The present invention also includes methods to identify and obtain such proteins, nucleic acid molecules, antibodies, and inhibitory compounds. Also included in the present invention are therapeutic compositions comprising such proteins, nucleic acid molecules, antibodies and/or inhibitory compounds as well as the use of such therapeutic compositions to regulate an immune response in an animal.
US08263558B2 Methods of preparation of recombinant forms of human beta-amyloid protein and uses of these proteins
The subject invention relates to the cloning, expression and isolation of recombinant forms of beta-amyloid protein containing a N-terminal methionine (or one or more amino acids) as well as to methods of using this recombinant protein in the production of therapeutic antibodies, in the identification of therapeutic small molecules, and in the performance of diagnostic assays.
US08263555B2 Use of bradykinin and related B2R agonists to treat ocular hypertension and glaucoma
The invention provides methods for treating and/or preventing ocular disorders associated with increased intraocular pressure comprising administering a bradykinin B2 receptor agonist to a patient in need thereof.
US08263554B2 Methods of using GLP-1 receptor agonists to treat pancreatitis
The disclosure provides the use of GLP-1 receptor agonist compounds to treat pancreatitis (e.g., acute, chronic, hemorrhagic, necrotizing) in patients. The disclosure also provides the use of GLP-1 receptor agonist compounds to reduce elevated plasma amylase and/or lipase concentrations in patients. An exemplary GLP-1 receptor agonist compound is exenatide.
US08263548B2 Metal-binding compounds and uses therefor
The invention provides a method of reducing the damage done by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in an animal. The invention also provides a method of reducing the concentration of a metal in an animal. These methods comprise administering to the animal an effective amount of a metal-binding compound as further described in the application. The invention further provides a method of reducing the damage done by ROS to a cell, a tissue or an organ that has been removed from an animal. This method comprising contacting the cell, tissue or organ with a solution or medium containing an effective amount of a metal-binding compound of the invention. The invention further provides novel metal-binding compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the metal-binding compounds, and kits comprising a container holding a metal-binding compound of the invention.
US08263545B2 GIP analog and hybrid polypeptides with selectable properties
The present invention relates generally to novel GIP analogs and GIP hybrid polypeptides with selectable properties, useful as agents for the treatment and prevention of metabolic diseases and disorders, for example those which can be alleviated by control plasma glucose levels, insulin levels, and/or insulin secretion, positive inotropic effects, reduction of catabolic effects, slowing of gastric emptying. Such conditions and disorders include, but are not limited to, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders, critical care, insulin-resistance, obesity, and diabetes mellitus of any kind, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
US08263542B2 Detergent composition with an organophosphorus hydrophilizing soil-release agent and methods for using same
Laundry detergent compositions that provide soil release benefits to all fabric comprising an organophosphorus soil release agents and optional non-cotton secondary soil release agents. The present invention further relates to a method for providing soil release benefits to cotton fabric by contacting cotton articles with a water soluble and/or dispersible organophosphorus material. The contacting can be during washing or by pretreating by applying the composition directly to stains or by presoaking the clothing in the composition prior to washing. The present invention further relates to providing soil release benefits to all fabric in the laundry wash load in the presence of a bleaching agent.
US08263540B2 Detergent compositions with combinations of acrylic and maleic acid homopolymers and/or salts thereof for aluminum protection
A warewashing detergent composition is provided for use for in cleaning of alkaline sensitive metals such as aluminum or aluminum containing alloys. The compositions include alternatives to sodium tripolyphosphate and/or other phosphorous containing raw materials, while retaining cleaning performance and corrosion prevention. According to the invention, a synergistic combination of polyacrylic and polymaleic polymers are used as corrosion inhibitors in traditional alkaline detergent compositions.
US08263537B2 Preparation of functional monomers for grafting to low molecular weight polyalkenes and their use in the preparation of dispersants and lubricating oil compositions containing dispersant polyalkenes
A polyalkene dispersant comprised of low MW polyalkene having an average molecular weight range of about 300 to about 10,000 and an ethylenically-unsaturated, aliphatic or aromatic, nitrogen- and oxygen-containing graftable monomer and methods of making the same are disclosed. The monomers are formed by reacting an acylating agent with amines having one or more primary or secondary amine to form a reaction product. Graft polyalkene dispersants comprising such monomers are formed by grafting the reaction product to the polyalkene backbone. Also described is lubricating oil comprising base oil and the dispersant polyalkene as described above.
US08263536B2 Method for the control of deposit formation in formulated lubricating oil by use of ionic liquids as additives
The resistance to deposit formation in formulated lubricating oils is enhanced by the addition to the lubricating oil of an additive amount of ionic liquids.
US08263534B2 Anti-seizure agent for hot steel working
An anti-seizure agent for hot steel working that exhibits excellent wettability and surface film-adherability comprises: an inorganic component (first component); sodium hydroxide (second component); water-soluble resins and/or water-soluble surfactants (third component); and water. With the mass of the sum of the first component, the second component, and the third component as 100 mass %, the anti-seizure agent contains: 96.5 mass % or more and 99.98 mass % or less of the first component; 0.01 mass % or more and 2.0 mass % or less of the second component; and 0.01 mass % or more and 1.5 mass % or less of the third component, and the inorganic component is one or more selected from a group consisting of Al2O3, SiO2, CaO, B2O3, K2O, and Na2O. A coating layer formed after application solidly adheres to the steel and does not come off in the environment of both cold and hot working.
US08263532B2 Microarray substrate, method of use, and products comprising the microarray substrate
Provided are a microarray substrate comprising a solid substrate coated with a chemical having a functional residue represented by Formula 1 or 2 below, a method of analyzing a biomolecule using the microarray substrate, and a lab-on-a-chip comprising the microarray substrate: wherein n, the structure within brackets [ ], R1, R2, R3, R10, n and l are as defined in the specification.
US08263530B2 Agrochemical formulations containing microcapsules
The invention refers a new formulation of fluoroxypyr or chlorpyrifos or diflufenican microencapsulated and in the form of water dispersable granules or as a part of a ZC formulation. Further the invention refers to water dispersable granules containing microcapsules that enclose fluoroxypyr and at the same time the WDG have also sulfonylureas outside of the microcapsules. Further we provide formulations in the form of SC or ZC of the aforementioned active ingredients and its combinations. Also fluoroxypyr may be replaced by any agrochemical of any biological activity that is solid at room temperature and melts below 110° C. Mixtures of actives of such formulations are also contemplated.
US08263525B1 Nanoparticle sorbent for efficient mercury remediation from contaminated water
A new class of sorbents for the removal of mercury from contaminated water. The optimum structure of the sorbent particles and a method to produce the same is described. The newly developed carbon-based particles are differentiated from other sorbent particles by their high accessible surface area and high affinity towards mercury ions that leads to faster and higher mercury adsorption. The sorbent is based on carbon particles with a metal-oxide coating on the surface. The metal-oxide is coated on the surface of carbon, using a solution-based method. The metal-oxide coated carbon was further modified with sulfur molecules, to increase its mercury removal capacity.
US08263524B1 Environmentally benign sorbents for removing mercury from flue gas
A new class of carbon-based sorbents for vapor-phase mercury removal is disclosed in this invention. The optimum structure of the sorbent particles, and a method to produce the sorbent, are described. The sorbent is based on carbon particles with a metal-oxide coating on the surface. The thin metal-oxide layer acts as a barrier for the adsorption of Air Entrainment Admixture (AEA), the component used to stabilize bubbles in cement), thereby enhancing its concrete friendliness. The metal-oxide is coated on the surface of carbon, using a solution-based method. The metal-oxide coated carbon was further modified with sulfur molecules, to increase its mercury removal capacity.
US08263523B2 Preparation of cobalt-ruthenium/zeolite Fischer-Tropsch catalysts
A method for forming a cobalt-containing Fischer-Tropsch catalyst involves precipitating a cobalt oxy-hydroxycarbonate species by turbulent mixing, during which a basic solution collides with an acidic solution comprising cobalt. The method further involves depositing the cobalt oxy-hydroxycarbonate species onto an acidic support to provide a catalyst comprising cobalt and the acidic support. The acidic support comprises a zeolite, a molecular sieve, or combinations thereof.
US08263522B2 Metal nitrate conversion method
A method for converting a supported metal nitrate into the corresponding supported metal oxide comprises heating the metal nitrate to effect its decomposition under a gas mixture that contains nitrous oxide and has an oxygen content of <5% by volume. The method provides very highly dispersed metal oxide on the support material. The metal oxide is useful as a catalyst or as a catalyst precursor.
US08263521B2 Process for producing bisphenol A
The present invention provides a process for producing bisphenol A by reacting phenol with actone, wherein reaction is performed at higher temperatures while maintaining high selectivity, and thus high productivity is obtained. The invention relates to a cation-exchange resin, wherein a cation-exchange group is introduced into a syndiotactic polystyrene polymer and the amount of acid is 0.8 milliequivalent/g or more, to a catalyst comprising the cation-exchange resin, and to a process for producing bisphenol A using a cation-exchange resin catalyst.
US08263520B2 Two atom bridged dicarbonate compounds as internal donors in catalysts for polypropylene manufacture
A solid, hydrocarbon-insoluble, catalyst component useful in polymerizing olefins, said catalyst component containing magnesium, titanium, and halogen, and further containing an internal electron donor having a structure: [R1—O—C(O)—O—]xR2 wherein R1 is independently at each occurrence, an aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon, or substituted hydrocarbon group containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms; x is 2-4; and R2 is an aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon, or substituted hydrocarbon group containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, provided that there are 2 atoms in the shortest chain connecting a first R1—O—C(O)—O— group and a second R1—O—C(O)—O— group.
US08263513B2 Sinterable bioceramics and method of manufacturing the same
The present invention discloses a method that can improve the sintering ability of calcium sulfate. The material can be used as a bio-material. This method is prepared by pre-mixing +1 and/or +2 and/or +3 and/or +4 and/or +5 valence element and/or its chemical compounds which serves as a sintering additive to calcium sulfate. During sintering, the sintering additive may form a compound and/or a glass and/or a glass-ceramic to assist the densification of the calcium sulfate. The strength and biocompatibility of the specimen after sintering are satisfactory.
US08263510B2 Optical glass, glass molded body, optical device and their production methods
An optical class comprising, by mass %, 12 to 30% of total of B2O3 and SiO2, 55 to 80% of total of La2O3, Gd2O3, Y2O3, ZrO2, Nb2O5 and WO3, 2 to 10% of ZrO2, 0 to 15% of Nb2O5, 0 to 15% of ZnO and 0% or more but less than 13% of Ta2O5, wherein the ratio of the content of Ta2O5 to the total content of La2O3, Gd2O3, Y2O3, Yb2O3, ZrO2, Nb2O5 and WO3 is 0.23 or less, the ratio of the total content of La2O3, Gd2O3, Y2O3 and Yb2O3 to the total content of B2O3 and SiO2 is from 2 to 4, the optical glass having a refractive index nd of 1.86 or more and an Abbe's number νd of 38 or more, and a rod shaped glass shaped material and an optical element formed of the above optical glass each.
US08263508B2 Phosphosilicate glass ceramic
A phosphosilicate glass ceramic with nanoscale fluoroapatite and leucite crystals. The glass ceramic is very similar to natural tooth material in terms of its optical properties. The glass ceramic has a low linear thermal expansion coefficient and a low pressing temperature and is therefore particularly suitable for pressing on metal alloys to produce dental restoration.
US08263507B2 Cellulose carbamate spinning solution, method for producing a cellulose carbamate nonwoven, and use of the same
The present invention relates to a cellulose carbamate spinning solution, the cellulose carbamate being dissolved in an ionic liquid. The invention relates furthermore to a method for the production of nonwovens in which the cellulose carbamate spinning solution is pressed through the holes of a nozzle bar and stretched by a multiple by means of an air flow. The formed fiber curtain is laid on a perforated conveyer belt, washed and dried. Likewise, the invention relates to nonwovens of this type and also the use thereof.
US08263500B2 Photoelectrochemical etching for laser facets
A method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device, by etching facets using a photoelectrochemical (PEC) etch, so that the facets are sufficiently smooth to support optical modes within a cavity bounded by the facets.
US08263499B2 Plasma processing method and computer readable storage medium
A plasma etching method includes disposing first electrode and second electrodes; preparing a part in a processing chamber; supporting a substrate by the second electrode to face the first electrode; vacuum-evacuating the processing chamber; supplying a first processing gas containing an etchant gas into a processing space between the first electrode and the second electrode; generating a plasma of the first processing gas in the processing space by applying a radio frequency power to the first electrode or the second electrode; and etching a film on the substrate by using the plasma. Further, a resist modification process includes vacuum-evacuating the processing chamber; supplying a second processing gas into the processing space; generating a plasma; and applying a negative DC voltage to the part, the part being disposed away from the substrate in the processing chamber and injecting electrons discharged from the part into the resist pattern on the substrate.
US08263495B2 Release accumulative charges by tuning ESC voltages in via-etchers
A method of forming an integrated circuit structure on a wafer includes providing a first etcher comprising a first electrostatic chuck (ESC); placing the wafer on the first ESC; and forming a via opening in the wafer using the first etcher. After the step of forming the via opening, a first reverse de-chuck voltage is applied to the first ESC to release the wafer. The method further includes placing the wafer on a second ESC of a second etcher; and performing an etching step to form an additional opening in the wafer using the second etcher. After the step of forming the additional opening, a second reverse de-chuck voltage is applied to the second ESC to release the wafer. The second reverse de-chuck voltage is different from the first reverse de-chuck voltage.
US08263493B2 Silicon chip having through via and method for making the same
The present invention relates to a silicon chip having a through via and a method for making the same. The silicon chip includes a silicon substrate, a passivation layer, at least one electrical device and at least one through via. The passivation layer is disposed on a first surface of the silicon substrate. The electrical device is disposed in the silicon substrate, and exposed to a second surface of the silicon substrate. The through via includes a barrier layer and a conductor, and penetrates the silicon substrate and the passivation layer. A first end of the through via is exposed to the surface of the passivation layer, and a second end of the through via connects the electrical device. When a redistribution layer is formed on the surface of the passivation layer, the redistribution layer will not contact the silicon substrate, thus avoiding a short circuit. Therefore, a lower resolution process can be used, which results in low manufacturing cost and simple manufacturing process.
US08263490B2 Formation method of metallic electrode of semiconductor device and metallic electrode formation apparatus
A formation method of a metallic electrode of a semiconductor device is disclosed. The method includes: acquiring data about surface shape of a surface part of a semiconductor substrate; and causing a deformation device to deform the semiconductor substrate based on the data so that a distance between a cutting plane and the surface part falls within a required accuracy in cutting amount. In deforming the semiconductor substrate, multiple actuators are used as the deformation device. A pitch of the multiple actuators is set to a value that is greater than one-half of wavelength of spatial frequency of a thickness distribution of the semiconductor substrate and that is less than or equal to the wavelength.
US08263486B1 Bumped chip package fabrication method and structure
A method of fabricating a bumped chip package includes forming a first seed layer on a dielectric layer, the dielectric layer comprising a dielectric layer opening exposing a substrate terminal of a substrate, the first seed layer being formed within the dielectric layer opening and on the substrate terminal. A circuit pattern is plated on the first seed layer, wherein an exposed portion of the first seed layer is exposed from the circuit pattern. The exposed portion of the first seed layer is removed by laser-ablation. By using a laser-ablation process, a chemical etching process is avoided thus eliminating the need to treat or dispose of chemical etching hazardous waste. Further, circuit pattern width erosion and undercut of the circuit pattern associated with a chemical etching process are avoided.
US08263485B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor device
A method for fabricating semiconductor device includes forming an etch target layer over a substrate including a cell region and a peripheral region, forming a first mask pattern having a first portion and a second portion over the etch target layer in the cell region and forming a second mask pattern having a first portion and a second portion over the etch target layer in the peripheral region, forming a photoresist pattern over the cell region, trimming the first portion of the second mask pattern, removing the photoresist pattern and the second portion of the first mask pattern and the second portion of the second mask pattern, and etching the etch target layer to form a pattern in the cell region and a pattern in the peripheral region.
US08263484B2 High resistivity silicon wafer and method for manufacturing the same
This method for manufacturing a high resistivity silicon wafer includes pulling a single crystal such that the single crystal has a p-type dopant concentration at which a wafer surface resistivity becomes in a range of 0.1 to 10 k Ωcm, an oxygen concentration Oi of 5.0×1017 to 20×1017 atoms/cm3 (ASTM F-121, 1979), and a nitrogen concentration of 1.0×1013 to 10×1013 atoms/cm3 (ASTM F-121, 1979) by using a Czochralski method, processing the single crystal into wafers by slicing the single crystal, and subjecting the wafer to an oxygen out-diffusion heat treatment process in a non-oxidizing atmosphere.
US08263483B2 Method including producing a monocrystalline layer
A method including producing a monocrystalline layer is disclosed. A first lattice constant on a monocrystalline substrate has a second lattice constant at least in a near-surface region. The second lattice constant is different from the first lattice constant. Lattice matching atoms are implanted into the near-surface region. The near-surface region is momentarily melted. A layer is epitaxially deposited on the near-surface region that has solidified in monocrystalline fashion.
US08263482B2 Nano-tube MOSFET technology and devices
This invention discloses a semiconductor power device disposed in a semiconductor substrate and the semiconductor substrate has a plurality of trenches. Each of the trenches is filled with a plurality of epitaxial layers of alternating conductivity types constituting nano tubes functioning as conducting channels stacked as layers extending along a sidewall direction with a “Gap Filler” layer filling a merging-gap between the nano tubes disposed substantially at a center of each of the trenches. The “Gap Filler” layer can be very lightly doped Silicon or grown and deposited dielectric layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of trenches are separated by pillar columns each having a width approximately half to one-third of a width of the trenches.
US08263481B2 Method for producing a protective structure
A protective structure is produced by providing a semiconductor substrate with a doping of a first conductivity type. A semiconductor layer with a doping of a second conductivity type is applied at a surface of the semiconductor substrate. A buried layer with doping of a second conductivity type is formed in a first region of the semiconductor layer, wherein the buried layer is produced at the junction between the semiconductor layer and semiconductor substrate. A first dopant zone with a doping of a first conductivity type is formed in the first region of the semiconductor layer above the buried layer. A second dopant zone with a doping of a second conductivity type is formed in a second region of the semiconductor layer. An electrical insulation is formed between the first region and the second region of the semiconductor layer. A common connection device is formed for the first dopant zone and the second dopant zone.
US08263475B2 Method for manufacturing heterostructures
A method for manufacturing heterostructures for applications in the fields of electronics, optics or opto-electronics. This method includes providing a silicon oxide layer with a thickness of less than or equal to 25 nanometers on one of a donor substrate or a receiver substrate or on both substrates, heat treating the substrate(s) that contains the silicon oxide layer at 900° C. to 1,200° C. under a neutral or reducing atmosphere that contains at least one of argon or hydrogen to form layer trapping through-holes inside the silicon oxide, bonding the substrates together at a bonding interface with the silicon oxide layer(s) positioned between them, reinforcing the bonding by annealing the substrates at 25° C. to 500° C. such that the trapping holes retaining gas species at the bonding interface, and transferring an active layer as a portion of the donor substrate onto the receiver substrate to obtain the heterostructure.
US08263474B2 Reduced defect silicon or silicon germanium deposition in micro-features
A method is provided for reduced defect such as void free or reduced void Si or SiGe deposition in a micro-feature on a patterned substrate. The micro-feature includes a sidewall and the patterned substrate contains an isolation layer on the field area and on the sidewall and bottom of the micro-feature. The method includes forming a Si or SiGe seed layer at the bottom of the micro-feature, and at least partially filling the micro-feature from the bottom up by selectively growing Si or SiGe onto the Si or SiGe seed layer. According to one embodiment, the Si or SiGe seed layer is formed by depositing a conformal Si or SiGe layer onto the patterned substrate, removing the Si or SiGe layer from the field area, heat treating the Si or SiGe layer in the presence of H2 gas to transfer at least a portion of the Si or SiGe layer from the sidewall to the bottom of the micro-feature, and etching Si or SiGe residue from the field area and the sidewall.
US08263473B2 Method of forming semiconductor devices
A semiconductor device includes an insulating layer and an undoped polysilicon layer that are stacked over a semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor substrate is exposed by removing the portions of the undoped polysilicon layer and the insulating layer. The trenches are formed by etching the exposed semiconductor substrate. Isolation layers are formed in the trenches, and a doped polysilicon layer is formed by implanting impurities into the undoped polysilicon layer.
US08263471B2 Multilayer structure comprising a phase change material layer and method of producing the same
A method of producing a multilayer structure is provided, wherein the method comprises forming a phase change material layer onto a substrate, forming a protective layer, forming a further layer on the protective layer, patterning the further layer in an first patterning step, patterning the protective layer and the phase change material layer by a second patterning step. In particular, the first patterning step may be an etching step using chemical etchants. Moreover, electrodes may be formed on the substrate before the phase change material layer is formed, e.g. the electrodes may be formed on one level, e.g. may form a planar structure and may not form a vertically structure.
US08263467B2 Process for fabricating a self-aligned deposited source/drain insulated gate field-effect transistor
Processes for forming self-aligned, deposited source/drain, insulated gate, transistors and, in particular, FETs. By depositing a source/drain in a recess such that it remains only in the recess, the source/drain can be formed self-aligned to a gate and/or a channel of such a device. For example, in one such process a gate structure of a transistor may be formed and, in a material surrounding the gate structure, a recess created so as to be aligned to an edge of the gate structure. Subsequently, a source/drain conducting material may be deposited in the recess. Such a source/drain conducting material may be deposited, in some cases, as layers, with one or more such layers being planarized following its deposition. In this way, the conducting material is kept within the boundaries of the recess.
US08263463B2 Nonvolatile split gate memory cell having oxide growth
A split gate nonvolatile memory cell on a semiconductor layer is made by forming a gate dielectric over the semiconductor layer. A first layer of gate material is deposited over the gate dielectric. The first layer of gate material is etched to remove a portion of the first layer of gate material over a first portion of the semiconductor layer and to leave a select gate portion having a sidewall adjacent to the first portion. A treatment is applied over the semiconductor layer to reduce a relative oxide growth rate of the sidewall to the first portion. Oxide is grown on the sidewall to form a first oxide on the sidewall and on the first portion to form a second oxide on the first portion after the applying the treatment. A charge storage layer is formed over the first oxide and along the second oxide. A control gate is formed over the second oxide and adjacent to the sidewall.
US08263462B2 Dielectric punch-through stoppers for forming FinFETs having dual fin heights
A semiconductor structure includes a semiconductor substrate having a first portion and a second portion. A first Fin field-effect transistor (FinFET) is formed over the first portion of the semiconductor substrate, wherein the first FinFET includes a first fin having a first fin height. A second FinFET is formed over the second portion of the semiconductor substrate, wherein the second FinFET includes a second fin having a second fin height different from the first fin height. A top surface of the first fin is substantially level with a top surface of the second fin. A punch-through stopper is underlying and adjoining the first FinFET, wherein the punch-through stopper isolates the first fin from the first portion of the semiconductor substrate.
US08263459B2 Method for forming a floating gate non-volatile memory cell
Method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory comprising at least one array of memory cells on a substrate of a semiconductor material, the memory cells being self-aligned to and separated from each other by STI structures, the memory cells comprising a floating gate having an inverted-T shape in a cross section along the array of memory cells, wherein the inverted T shape is formed by oxidizing an upper part of the sidewalls of the floating gates thereby forming sacrificial oxide, and subsequently removing the sacrificial oxide simultaneously with further etching back the STI structures.
US08263454B2 Embedded semiconductor device including planarization resistance patterns and method of manufacturing the same
An embedded semiconductor device which a logic region and the memory region are planarized with planarization resistance patterns and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. The embedded semiconductor device includes a substrate, gates formed on the substrate, source/drain regions formed on both sides of the gates in the substrate, a first interlayer dielectric (ILD) layer which covers the gates and the source/drain regions, first via plugs which vertically penetrate the first ILD layer and are selectively connected to the source/drain regions, capacitors and second via plugs selectively connected to the first via plugs, a second ILD layer that fills the space between the capacitors and the second via plugs, planarization resistance patterns formed on the second ILD layer, a third ILD layer formed on the second ILD layer and the planarization resistant patterns, and third via plugs which vertically penetrate the third ILD layer, and are selectively connected to a top electrode of the capacitors and the second via plugs.
US08263452B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device has an n-channel MIS transistor and a p-channel MIS transistor on a substrate. The n-channel MIS transistor includes a p-type semiconductor region formed on the substrate, a lower layer gate electrode which is formed via a gate insulating film above the p-type semiconductor region and which is one monolayer or more and 3 nm or less in thickness, and an upper layer gate electrode which is formed on the lower layer gate electrode, whose average electronegativity is 0.1 or more smaller than the average electronegativity of the lower layer gate electrode. The p-channel MIS transistor includes an n-type semiconductor region formed on the substrate and a gate electrode which is formed via a gate insulating film above the n-type semiconductor region and is made of the same metal material as that of the upper layer gate electrode.
US08263451B2 Epitaxy profile engineering for FinFETs
A method of forming an integrated circuit structure includes providing a wafer including a substrate and a semiconductor fin at a major surface of the substrate, and performing a deposition step to epitaxially grow an epitaxy layer on a top surface and sidewalls of the semiconductor fin, wherein the epitaxy layer includes a semiconductor material. An etch step is then performed to remove a portion of the epitaxy layer, with a remaining portion of the epitaxy layer remaining on the top surface and the sidewalls of the semiconductor fin.
US08263450B2 Power semiconductor component with charge compensation structure and method for the fabrication thereof
A semiconductor component with charge compensation structure has a semiconductor body having a drift path between two electrodes. The drift path has drift zones of a first conduction type, which provide a current path between the electrodes in the drift path, while charge compensation zones of a complementary conduction type constrict the current path of the drift path. For this purpose, the drift path has two alternately arranged, epitaxially grown diffusion zone types, the first drift zone type having monocrystalline semiconductor material on a monocrystalline substrate, and a second drift zone type having monocrystalline semiconductor material in a trench structure, with complementarily doped walls, the complementarily doped walls forming the charge compensation zones.
US08263449B2 Method of manufacturing high electron mobility transistor
A method of manufacturing a High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT) may include forming first and second material layers having different lattice constants on a substrate, forming a source, a drain, and a gate on the second material layer, and changing the second material layer between the gate and the drain into a different material layer, or changing a thickness of the second material layer, or forming a p-type semiconductor layer on the second material layer. The change in the second material layer may occur in an entire region of the second material layer between the gate and the drain, or only in a partial region of the second material layer adjacent to the gate. The p-type semiconductor layer may be formed on an entire top surface of the second material layer between the gate and the drain, or only on a partial region of the top surface adjacent to the gate.
US08263443B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
Provided is a semiconductor device formed to an SOI substrate including a MOS transistor in which a parasitic MOS transistor is suppressed. The semiconductor device formed on the SOI substrate by employing a LOCOS process is structured such that a part of a polysilicon layer to becomes a gate electrode includes: a first conductivity type polysilicon region corresponding to a region of the silicon active layer which has a constant thickness and is to become a channel; and second conductivity type polysilicon regions corresponding to LOCOS isolation edges in each of which a thickness of the silicon active layer decreases.
US08263440B2 Method for fabricating etching barrier by using shadow effect and method for fabricating one side contact of vertical transistor using the same
A method for fabricating an etching barrier includes forming wall bodies with a trench in between the wall bodies in a semiconductor substrate. An etching barrier is formed by performing a deposition having a directionality in an oblique direction with respect to the surface of the semiconductor substrate, wherein one of two bottom edge portions of the trench is not covered by the deposition due to a shadow effect by upper portions of the wall bodies.
US08263434B2 Semiconductor device and method of mounting die with TSV in cavity of substrate for electrical interconnect of Fi-PoP
A semiconductor device has a substrate with a cavity formed through first and second surfaces of the substrate. A conductive TSV is formed through a first semiconductor die, which is mounted in the cavity. The first semiconductor die may extend above the cavity. An encapsulant is deposited over the substrate and a first surface of the first semiconductor die. A portion of the encapsulant is removed from the first surface of the first semiconductor die to expose the conductive TSV. A second semiconductor die is mounted to the first surface of the first semiconductor die. The second semiconductor die is electrically connected to the conductive TSV. An interposer is disposed between the first semiconductor die and second semiconductor die. A third semiconductor die is mounted over a second surface of the first semiconductor die. A heat sink is formed over a surface of the third semiconductor die.
US08263432B2 Material composition having core-shell microstructure used for varistor
A material composition having a core-shell microstructure suitable for manufacturing a varistor having outstanding electrical properties, the core-shell microstructure of the material composition at least comprising a cored-structure made of a conductive or semi-conductive material and a shelled-structure made from a glass material to wrap the cored-structure, and electrical properties of the varistors during low temperature of sintering process can be decided and designated by precisely controlling the size of the grain of the cored-structure and the thickness and insulation resistance of the insulating layer of the shelled-structure of material composition.
US08263412B2 Long wavelength engineered fluorescent proteins
Engineered fluorescent proteins, nucleic acids encoding them and methods of use.
US08263407B2 Method for non-contact particle manipulation and control of particle spacing along an axis
Method and system for uniformly spacing particles in a flowing system comprising suspending particles in an elongated fluid filled cavity; exposing said cavity to an axial acoustic standing wave field, wherein said axial acoustic standing wave field drives said particles to nodal and anti-nodal positions along the center axis of said cavity to result in uniformly spaced particles; and focusing said particles to the center axis of said cavity.
US08263405B2 Controllably degradable hydrogel for culturing cells to produce three-dimensionally organized cells
To provide a new reductive-stimuli-responsive degradable gel that allows any control of decomposition of the three-dimensional base material for cell culture and production of a completely biological three-dimensional cellular structure consisting only of cells and cells-produced extracellular matrix and that allows safe recovery of the cellular structure produced. A stimuli-responsive hydrogel, characterized by being produced by crosslinking a water-soluble polymer with a compound having a disulfide bond in the molecular chain.
US08263402B1 Method for isolating and purifying oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells
The present invention is directed to a method of separating oligodendrocyte cells or progenitor cells thereof from a mixed population of cells. It comprises selecting a promoter which functions only in the oligodendrocyte cells or progenitor cells thereof, introducing a nucleic acid molecule encoding a fluorescent protein under control of that promoter into the mixed population cells, allowing the oligodendrocyte cells or progenitor cells thereof to express the fluorescent protein, and separating the fluorescent cells from the mixed population cells, where the separated cells are the oligodendrocyte cells or progenitor cells thereof. The invention also relates to the isolated and enriched human oligodendrocyte cells or progenitor cells thereof.
US08263394B2 Polynucleotides encoding antigenic HIV type B polypeptides, polypeptides, and uses thereof
The present invention relates to polynucleotides encoding immunogenic HIV polypeptides. Uses of the polynucleotides in applications including immunization, generation of packaging cell lines, and production of HIV polypeptides are also described. Polynucleotides encoding antigenic HIV polypeptides are described, as are uses of these polynucleotides and polypeptide products therefrom, including formulations of immunogenic compositions and uses thereof.
US08263391B2 Specimen carrier for the study of cell growth
The invention relates to a specimen carrier for the study of cell growth, comprising a substrate with a reservoir with a bottom, wherein the reservoir is filled up to a predetermined height of the side wall, which is smaller than the complete height of the reservoir, with a carrier material for cell growth and the side wall of the reservoir is formed such that a predetermined contact angle of the carrier material can be adjusted with respect to the side wall.
US08263390B2 Biological material fixed carrier enclosing tip, biological material fixed carrier treatment apparatus, and treatment method thereof
A biological material fixed carrier enclosing tip, a biological material fixed carrier treatment apparatus, and a treatment method thereof. An object is to obviate attachment control and suction control for storing and retaining the carrier in the tip form vessel, to simplify complex reaction processes, and to make processing of the biological material fixed carrier to be easily executed as a result of a small-scale device configuration. The biological material fixed carrier enclosing tip comprises: a tip form vessel having an installation opening part that is installable to a nozzle that performs suction and discharge of gas, and a narrow tube that possesses an opening, through which fluid inflow and outflow is possible by means of the suction and discharge of gas, that is narrower than the nozzle; a carrier in which a predetermined biological material is fixed or fixable in a plurality of different positions that are determined beforehand that are distinguishable from the exterior, and has a size or a shape that is able to pass through the opening; and an enclosing section provided on the tip form vessel that encloses the carrier within the narrow tube in a state where it is able to make contact with the fluid that has flown into the narrow tube from the opening.
US08263389B2 Perifusion device
A perifusion device includes at least one sample container for cells, the sample container having an inlet and an outlet. The container receives test liquid through the inlet and discharges the liquid through the outlet. A manifold having a plurality of liquid inlets, control valves, and liquid outlets can be provided so that the flow of liquids from source containers to the sample containers can be varied and controlled. A receptacle housing has a plurality of receptacles for receiving fluid from the outlet of the sample container. A drive is connected to the receptacle housing for moving the receptacle housing such that liquid samples are collected sequentially from the outlet of the sample containers. A programmable controller can be provided to control movement of the receptacle housing at predetermined times, and to record data identifying liquid samples in the receptacles. The test liquid includes at least one stimuli for the cells, which can be the presence, absence, or concentration of a compound in the liquid, or a physical property of the liquid such as temperature. The liquid collected in the receptacles is analyzed to determine the response of the cells to the stimuli.
US08263387B2 Sheath flow devices and methods
The invention relates generally to fluid processing and, in particular aspects, processing fluids for detection, selection, trapping and/or sorting of particulate moieties. Sheath flow devices described allow isolation of target species from fluid samples while avoiding non-specific binding of unwanted species to the surfaces of the separation device. Biological fluid processing, detection, sorting or selection of cells, proteins, and nucleic acids is described. The invention finds particular use in diagnostic settings, analyzing a patient's medical condition, monitoring and/or adjusting a therapeutic regimen and producing cell based products.
US08263382B2 Alpha-amylase mutants
The invention relates to a variant of a parent Termamyl-like alpha-amylase, which variant has alpha-amylase activity and exhibits an alteration in at least one of the following properties relative to the parent alpha-amylase: substrate specificity, substrate binding, substrate cleavage pattern, thermal stability, pH/activity profile, pH/stability profile, stability towards oxidation, Ca2+ dependency and specific activity.
US08263381B2 Enzymes for starch processing
The present invention relates to a hybrid enzyme comprising carbohydrate-binding module amino acid sequence and a fungal alpha-amylase amino acid sequence and to a variant of a fungal wild type enzyme comprising a carbohydrate-binding module and an alpha-amylase catalytic module. The invention also relates to the use of the hybrid enzyme or the variant in starch liquefaction.
US08263380B2 Construction of new variants of dextransucrase DSR-S by genetic engineering
The present invention relates to a recombinant process for the production of truncated or mutated dextransucrases while conserving the enzymatic activity or their specificity in the synthesis of the α-1,6 bonds. The present invention relates to nucleic acid sequences of truncated or mutated dextransucrases, vectors containing the nucleic acid sequences and host cells transformed by sequences encoding truncated or mutated dextransucrases. In another aspect, the invention concerns a method for producing, in a recombinant manner, truncated or mutated dextransucrases which conserve their enzymatic activity or which conserve their specificity in the synthesis of α-1,6 bonds and can produce, from saccharose, dextrans with high molar mass and modified rheological properties compared with the properties of dextran obtained with the native enzyme and isomalto-oligosaccharides with a controlled molar mass and dextrans. The dextrans and isomalto-oligosaccharides of the invention can be used namely as texturing agents or as prebiotics.
US08263374B2 Composite yeast suitable for high concentration alcohol fermentation from sugar-containing raw materials
The present invention relates to a composite yeast suitable for high concentration alcohol fermentation from sugar-containing raw materials, characterizing in that the composite yeast comprises any kind of dried yeast selected from Brewers yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, grape wine yeast Saccharomyces uvarum Beijerinek, and nutritious materials which are necessary for yeast growth, the nutritious materials include: the dried yeast 40-70 parts by weight, a nitrogen source 20-40 parts by weight, a phosphorous source 5-10 parts by weight, an other inorganic salt 2.5-5 parts by weight, a trace vitamin 1-2.5 parts by weight and a bacteriostatic 0.5-1.2 parts by weight. The present invention further relates to a method for preparation of the composite yeast suitable for high concentration alcohol fermentation from sugar-containing raw materials. Using the composite yeast of the present invention to proceed with sugar fermentation can increase fermentation alcoholicity, decrease residual sugar content, and allows the final alcoholicity of standard raw material, such as sucrose to attain to 14.5-15.5% v/v, and the amount of the residual reducing sugar in the fermentation mash is 0-0.1 wt %.
US08263371B2 Catalyzed preparation of (meth)acrylates of N-hydroxyalkylated amides
The claimed invention relates to a process for preparing (meth)acrylates of N-hydroxyalkylated amides, in which open-chain N-hydroxyalkylated amides are esterified with (meth)acrylic acid or transesterified with at least one (meth)acrylic ester in the presence of at least one heterogeneous catalyst selected from the group consisting of an inorganic salt and an enzyme.
US08263368B2 Alpha-amylase mutants
The invention relates to a novel Termamyl-like alpha-amylase, and Termamyl-like alpha-amylases comprising mutations in two, three, four, five or six regions/positions. The variants have increased thermostability at acidic pH and/or at low Ca2+ concentrations (relative to the parent). The invention also relates to a DNA construct comprising a DNA sequence encoding an alpha-amylase variant of the invention, a recombinant expression vector which carries a DNA construct of the invention, a cell which is transformed with a DNA construct of the invention, the use of an alpha-amylase variant of the invention for washing and/or dishwashing, textile desizing, starch liquefaction, a detergent additive comprising an alpha-amylase variant of the invention, a manual or automatic dishwashing detergent composition comprising an alpha-amylase variant of the invention, a method for generating a variant of a parent Termamyl-like alpha-amylase, which variant exhibits increased thermostability at acidic pH and/or at low Ca2+ concentrations (relative to the parent).
US08263363B2 Chimeric vaccine for Haemophilus influenzae-induced disease
The invention described herein relates to a chimeric protein comprising the NTHi twitching pilus major subunit protein (PilA) presenting a portion of the NTHi OMP P5 protein. The invention provides for vaccine compositions comprising the recombinant chimeric protein and methods of eliciting an immune response using the recombinant chimeric proteins of the invention.
US08263359B2 Method and device to fractionate stem cells
A method and the relevant instrumentation to fractionate living, adherent stem cells, particularly of human origin, from different sources is disclosed, said method is based on the non-equilibrium, dynamic fractionation of cells assisted by the Earth gravity field.
US08263357B2 AKT ligands and polynucleotides encoding AKT ligands
The invention relates to kinase ligands and polyligands. In particular, the invention relates to ligands, homopolyligands, and heteropolyligands that modulate AKT activity. The ligands, homopolyligands, and heteropolyligands are utilized as research tools or as therapeutics. The invention includes linkage of the ligands, homopolyligands, and heteropolyligands to a cellular localization signal, epitope tag and/or a reporter. The invention also includes polynucleotides encoding the ligands, homopolyligands, and heteropolyligands.
US08263355B2 Method and kit for detection of autoimmune chronic urticaria
Disclosed is a rapid, non-invasive and highly specific and sensitive diagnostic assay for the identification of individuals with autoimmune chronic urticaria, which makes use of CD203c, and in some embodiments, additional proteins, as a marker for the disease. Test kits for diagnosis of an individual suspected of having autoimmune chronic urticaria are also disclosed. Also disclosed are a method of identifying compounds useful for treating autoimmune chronic urticaria and a method of treating autoimmune chronic urticaria.
US08263351B2 Diagnostic methods for congestive heart failure
The invention provides an assay for the quantification of circulating glycophorin in biological fluid samples. The circulating glycophorin measured by this assay is a truncated glycophorin diagnostic for congestive heart failure (CHF).
US08263347B2 Biomarker for diagnosis of liver disease
Disclosed are: a marker for the diagnosis of a liver disease, which can determine the disease in a simple manner; an antibody directed against the marker; a diagnostic agent; a diagnosis method; and a method for marker detection in blood or serum. Proteome analysis revealed that quantities of the full-length kininogen and three partial peptides thereof (sequence A: position-440 to position-456, sequence B: position-439 to position-456, and sequence C: position-438 to position-456) in sera of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are significantly different from those in sera of healthy individuals; and a diagnostic agent and a detecting method for the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease that can be conveniently used for medical examination are established. The use of a combination of a kininogen-based marker and a C4-based marker (the full length sequence or partial peptides thereof) enables identification of chronic hepatitis and an asymptomatic virus carrier, as well as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
US08263346B2 Nonhuman model animal lacking the ability to control lymphocyte migration
The present invention provides a animal model useful in identifying a molecule controlling in a lymphocyte-specific manner migration and thus elucidating immune-related diseases and pathogenic conditions such as allergy, autoimmune diseases, GvH and graft rejections at a molecular level, or in developing a novel therapy. A nonhuman animal model such as a DOCK2 knockout mouse, in which the function to control lymphocyte migration has been deleted or suppressed, is generated by deleting DOCK2 gene on the chromosome. In this DOCK2 knockout mouse, the function of activating Rac to mediate actin cyteskeleton, the lymphocyte migration function in response to stimuli with chemokines such as SLC, SDF-1, BLC, the homing function to secondary lymphoid organs such as spleen, lymph nodes and Peyer's patches, and the function of emigrating mature thymic T cells into peripheral blood in response to stimulus with chemokine ELC are impaired, and as a result of this, immune responses are suppressed.
US08263345B2 Method for preparing standardized serum mixture for determining allergen potency and the use thereof
A method for preparing standardized serum mixture for determining allergen potency which comprises: 1) providing multiple serum samples from patients moderately hypersensitive to said allergen; 2) determining the relative content of sIgE against said allergen in each serum sample, obtaining the mean value of the relative content of sIgE of said multiple serum samples, and obtaining deviation value of the relative content of sIgE of each serum with respect to said mean value; 3) removing at least 5% of serum samples that have the largest and smallest deviation values respectively, and mixing the residual sera in the same volume. A serum mixture prepared by the method as well as the use of such serum mixture are also described.
US08263340B2 Constitutively active mutants of the prolactin receptor
The invention relates to constitutively active mutants of the prolactin receptor (PRLR), wherein an Ile residue at position 76 or at position 146 of the mature form of said receptor has been substituted by another amino acid residue. The invention also provides methods useful for the diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment of diseases involving the PRLR.
US08263338B2 Methods of enriching for and identifying polymorphisms
The invention encompasses methods for enriching for and identifying a polymorphism within a nucleic acid sample either by separating a subset of a nucleic acid sample or by selectively replicating a subset of a nucleic acid sample such that the polymorphism is contained within a nucleic acid population with reduced complexity, and then identifying the polymorphism within the enriched nucleic acid sample. Methods also are disclosed for enriching for and identifying a polymorphism by contacting a nucleic acid sample that includes a subset of nucleic acid molecules having a sequence that binds to a sequence-specific binding activity with a molecule having a sequence-specific binding activity under conditions which permit specific binding, such that the subset of nucleic acid molecules bound to the activity is enriched for nucleic acid molecules having the sequence recognized by the sequence-specific binding activity, and detecting a polymorphism with respect to a reference sequence in the subset of nucleic acid molecules.
US08263336B2 Methods and apparatus for measuring analytes
Methods and apparatus relating to FET arrays including large FET arrays for monitoring chemical and/or biological reactions such as nucleic acid sequencing-by-synthesis reactions. Some methods provided herein relate to improving signal (and also signal to noise ratio) from released hydrogen ions during nucleic acid sequencing reactions.
US08263333B2 Method of analyzing a target nucleic acid sequence
Provided is a method of analyzing a target nucleic acid sequence by using an elongation reaction and a ligation reaction.
US08263329B2 Genetic changes in ATM and ATR/CHEK1 as prognostic indicators in cancer
The present invention relates to the discovery that, in human cancer, an 11q deletion of ATM together with an increase in ATR and CHEK1 expression correlates with resistance to ionizing radiation which could be overcome by inhibition of the ATR/CHEK1 pathway. It provides for methods of identifying patients unlikely to exhibit an adequate response to radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy who may benefit from ATR/CHEK1 pathway inhibition, as well as methods of treating said patients.
US08263328B2 Devices and formulations for detecting, screening and monitoring levels of certain constituents in bodily fluids and method
A device is disclosed for conducting a non-invasive analysis of a bodily fluid to determine the presence and level of a certain constituent carried by the bodily fluid. An indicator formulation of the device changes color in response to exposure to the constituent to provide a visible indication of the presence and level of the constituent carried by the bodily fluid. A carrier substrate of the device is constructed of a material having voids providing a high void volume within the substrate. The device is made by applying a chromagen to the carrier substrate to create a chromagen-laden carrier member. Then, a selected reagent having a particular constituent-specific formulation is applied to the chromagen-laden member. The selected reagent then combines with the chromagen, thereby establishing the indicator formulation within the carrier substrate in place for reception of a sample of the bodily fluid.
US08263326B2 Compounds and methods for modulating activation of NF-κB
Compositions and methods for modulating the activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) are provided. The compositions comprise one or more agents that modulate ubiquitination of phosphorylated IκBα and/or IκBβ. Such compositions may be used for treating diseases associated with NF-κB activation. Modulating agents include human E3 ubiquitin ligases, antibodies thereto and variants thereof, as well as related proteins.
US08263314B2 Method for preparing a composite printing form
The invention pertains to a method for preparing a composite printing form from a single precursor that is capable of forming a relief and a carrier. The single precursor can be a single photosensitive element or a single laser-engravable print element having a reinforced elastomeric layer. The single precursor has a size that is at least 70% of a size of the carrier. The single precursor is located on the carrier by approximately positioning the precursor on the carrier that has no registration markings. Precise registration of the single precursor is achieved by using digital information generated from a computer to create the registered image on the composite form. The method is particularly suited for preparing composite printing forms for relief printing, and in particular for preparing composite printing forms for flexographic printing of corrugated substrates.
US08263313B2 Photosensitive resin composition and photosensitive film made with the same
The invention provides a photosensitive resin composition that can form resists with excellent adhesiveness for conductive layers and that does not easily produce conductive layer discoloration, as well as a photosensitive film employing the composition. A preferred photosensitive film (1) according to the invention comprises a support (11), resin layer (12) and protective film (13), where the resin layer (12) is composed of a photosensitive resin composition comprising a binder polymer, a photopolymerizing compound, a photopolymerization initiator and a benzotriazole derivative represented by the following general formula (1). [wherein R11 and R12 each independently represent hydrogen or a monovalent organic group, and R13 represents a halogen atom, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, allyl, aryl, amino, alkylamino, nitro, cyano, mercapto, alkylmercapto, hydroxyl, hydroxyalkyl, carboxyl, carboxyalkyl, acyl or alkoxy group or a monovalent group with a heterocyclic ring, with the proviso that at least one of R11 and R12 is an optionally substituted aryl group or an organic group containing a C10 or greater hydrocarbon group.]
US08263312B2 Antireflective coating material
Antireflective coatings comprising (i) a silsesquioxane resin having the formula (PhSiO(3-x)/2(OH)x)mHSiO(3-x)/2(OH)x)n(MeSiO(3-x)/2(OH)x)p where Ph is a phenyl group, Me is a methyl group, x has a value of 0, 1 or 2; m has a value of 0.01 to 0.99, n has a value of 0.01 to 0.99, p has a value of 0.01 to 0.99, and m+n+p=1; (ii) a polyethylene oxide fluid; and (iii) a solvent; and a method of forming said antireflective coatings on an electronic device.
US08263311B2 Photosensitive lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser includes in the following order: a support having a hydrophilic surface; a lower layer containing a polymer compound having at least a unit derived from a polymerizable monomer represented by the following formula (I); and an upper layer containing a polymer compound having a group represented by the following formula (II) in a side chain, wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R2 represents a methylene group or an ethylene group, R3 represents a methyl group, and X represents O or NH, wherein Z1, Z2 and Z3 each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a monovalent substituent composed of at least one nonmetallic atom.
US08263307B2 Positive resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A positive resist composition including a resin component (A) which exhibits increased solubility in an alkali developing solution under action of acid and an acid-generator component (B) which generates acid upon exposure, the resin component (A) including a structural unit (a0) represented by general formula (a0) (wherein R represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms or a halogenated lower alkyl group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms; Q represents a divalent linking group containing a nitrogen atom or an oxygen atom; R6 represents a lower alkyl group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms; p represents an integer of 1 to 3; and q represents an integer of 0 to 2) and a structural unit (a1) derived from an acrylate ester containing an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group exclusive of groups that exhibit aromaticity.
US08263303B2 Method for producing colored resin particle dispersion liquid, colored resin particle dispersion liquid, and electrophotographic liquid developer
A method for producing a colored resin particle dispersion liquid comprises: polycondensing a polyester-forming monomer in a nonaqueous solvent to produce an unsaturated polyester; graft-polymerizing an ethylenic unsaturated monomer to the unsaturated polyester in a nonaqueous solvent to produce a modified polyester resin; and dispersing a colorant and the modified polyester resin to produce a colored resin particle dispersion liquid, the polycondensing and the graft-polymerizing being carried out at a temperature of 150° C. or less.
US08263302B2 Carrier for electrophotography and two-component developer
A carrier for electrophotographic developer, including a core material; and a layer comprising a binder resin, located overlying the core material, wherein the binder resin includes a segment including one or more polymerizable vinyl monomers as a structural unit; and another segment including a partial cleavage structure of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane and/or another partial cleavage structure of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane as a structural unit.
US08263298B1 Electrically tunable and stable imaging members
Embodiments provide novel imaging members used in electrostatography. More particularly, there is provided flexible electrophotographic imaging members which have improved imaging layer(s) formulated to comprise of a plasticizer in a material matrix of a solid solution comprising a charge transporting compound and a film forming polymer binder which is a novel A-B diblock copolymer or a binary polymer blend of a novel A-B diblock copolymer and a bisphenol polycarbonate. The flexible imaging members thus prepared have improved photoelectrical cyclic function stability, chemical resistive property, and are curl-free, and thus eliminate the need for an additional anticurl back coating layer.
US08263293B2 Tridimensional structures for an ink jet printhead and relevant manufacturing process
In a monolithic ink jet printhead, a structural layer is made comprising cavities, obtained from the polymerization of a solution of a monomer, or an oligomer, and a photointiator; during the polymerization by radiation, acid species are unduly generated in zones protected by a mask, due to reflection of the radiation on reflecting surfaces of the support of the sructural layer; these acid species cause undue polymerization of the solution on the inside of the cavities to oppose the formation of these acid species, a polymerzation inhibitor basic compound is used.
US08263291B2 Holographic sensor
A sensor device comprising a holographic element comprises a grating or hologram recorded in a holographic recording medium wherein at least one physical and/or chemical and/or optical characteristic of the holographic element or the image produced by it varies as a result of variation in relative humidity or moisture content in the air surrounding the element. Also provided is an acrylamide-based photopolymer and an acrylamide-based reflection hologram.
US08263289B2 Fuel cell stack and method of producing its separator plates
A cell of a fuel cell includes a membrane electrode assembly, and metal first and second separators which sandwich the membrane electrode assembly to form gas flow paths disposed on each side of the membrane electrode assembly. A back surface of the first separator and a back surface of the second separator, the first separator and the second separator being included in adjacent cells, are in contact with each other, thereby forming a temperature-control medium flow path between the first separator and the second separator. In the first separator and the second separator, corrosion-resistant coating layers are provided only on reaction-side surfaces of the first separator and the second separator, the reaction-side surfaces facing the membrane electrode assembly, and portions where the back surface of the first separator is in contact with the back surface of the second separator are joined by welded portions.
US08263288B2 Rapid start-up, auxiliary power, and air preheating device of high temperature fuel cell systems
This invention relates to a rapid start-up, auxiliary power, and air preheating device of high temperature fuel cell systems, which comprise of a metal sheet, metal mesh plates, insulated ceramic rings and a direct flame SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) positive electrolyte negative assembly (PEN). The metal mesh plates are used to substitute the electrode plates to collect the current. The ribs between the PEN and the metal mesh plates are also for collecting current, while the ceramic ring is an insulator. This device is able to pre-heat gas rapidly and generates power at the same time, it's costless, easy to assemble, rapid start-up, high electric conductivity, excellent sealing and etc. In addition, it can heat up the fuel cell stack rapidly and start up the system without lag.
US08263284B2 Fuel cell fluid flow plate with shell passageway piece
A fluid cell fluid flow plate comprises: a fluid flow plate, having one face being a fluid flow face for receiving a reactive fluid and the other face being a non-active surface, provided with a first manifold, a second manifold, and a flow channel disposed on the fluid flow face; and a shell passageway piece, configured with parallel-disposed first face and second face that are connected to each other through a connecting face with at least one through hole provided thereon; wherein the flow channel being respectively connected to the first manifold through a first opening and to the second manifold through a second opening; and when the shell passageway piece and the fluid flow plate are combined, the first face contacts the fluid flow face, the second face contacts the non-active surface, and the first manifold communicates with the first opening by the through hole.
US08263283B2 Fuel cell system and control method thereof
A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell which has an anode. A fuel supplying device circulates a supply of aqueous methanol solution to the anode in the fuel cell. The fuel supplying device includes an aqueous solution tank for storing the aqueous methanol solution. By moving aqueous methanol solution from the aqueous solution tank to a water tank, the amount of aqueous methanol solution which is in circulation at the time of start-up is made smaller than the amount for normal operation. The fuel cell system and a control method therefore are capable of shortening a time that is necessary for heating aqueous fuel solution to be supplied to the fuel cell to a predetermined temperature without reducing fuel utilization efficiency.
US08263280B2 Compact air preheater for solid oxide fuel cell systems
The invention provides a solid oxide fuel cell system including a fuel cell stack having an anode side and a cathode side, an anode tailgas oxidizer for oxidizing an anode exhaust flow from the anode side to produce an oxidized anode exhaust flow, and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a first inlet for receiving a cathode exhaust flow from the cathode side of the fuel cell stack, a second inlet for receiving the oxidized anode exhaust flow, and a mixing region for combining the cathode exhaust flow and the oxidized anode exhaust flow to produce a combined exhaust flow. An air flow path for supplying air to the fuel cell stack to support an energy-producing reaction in the fuel cell stack extends through the heat exchanger so that heat is transferred from the combined exhaust flow to the air traveling along the air flow path.
US08263278B2 Fuel cell system and its operation method
A fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell which generates electricity; and control means which supplies an output power from the fuel cell to a predetermined load power source while realizing a low-efficiency operation of the fuel cell, thereby driving and controlling the load power source. The control means sets the output voltage of the fuel cell during the low-efficiency operation to a value not smaller than the minimum drive voltage of the load power source.
US08263274B2 Steam reformer with recuperative heat exchanger
Embodiments are disclosed that relate to temperature distribution in a reaction chamber of a steam reformer. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides a steam reformer, comprising a central chamber through which feed gas flows, a reaction chamber surrounding the central chamber and having an inner wall and an outer wall, and a recuperative heat exchanger disposed between the inner wall of the reaction chamber and the central chamber.
US08263273B2 Fuel cell system and method for controlling the same
A control device 7 obtains a reformed carbon quantity C supplied to a reform reaction flow channel 21 from a supplied fuel quantity Qf and also obtains a reformed water quantity S supplied to the reform reaction flow channel 21 from a generated power quantity W. Further, it obtains a oxygen consumed quantity consumed through power generation in a fuel cell 3 from the generated power quantity W, a supplied oxygen quantity to be supplied to a cathode flow channel 33 from a supplied cathode gas quantity Qc, and a reformed oxygen quantity O to be supplied to the reform reaction flow channel 21 based on a difference between the supplied oxygen quantity and the consumed oxygen quantity. By correcting a reformed carbon quantity C (delivery of a fuel pump 51) in accordance with the reformed oxygen quantity O, each of O/C and S/C is kept in a target value range.
US08263266B2 Electrode assembly and secondary battery having the same
A secondary battery, which may include an electrode assembly, a can having an upper opening to receive the electrode assembly and a cap assembly finishing the opening of the can is disclosed. The electrode assembly may include a positive electrode plate provided with a positive electrode active material layer, a negative electrode plate provided with a negative electrode active material layer, a separator interposed between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate and an insulation coating layer coated on the positive electrode plate. The insulation coating layer may includes a first coating layer coated on the positive electrode coating portion. The insulation coating layer may contain olivine type lithium phosphate compound. A second coating layer coated on the first coating layer may contain ceramic powder and a binder.
US08263264B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte battery, battery pack and vehicle
A nonaqueous electrolyte battery includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator and a nonaqueous electrolyte. The negative electrode contains a negative electrode active material having a Lithium ion insertion potential of 0.4 V (vs. Li/Li+) or more. The separator is provided between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The separator has a porosity of 50% or more and a pore diameter distribution in which a median diameter is larger than a mode diameter. The porosity and the pore diameter distribution are measured by mercury porosimetry. A surface roughness of the negative electrode is larger than the mode diameter.
US08263262B2 Anode for a lithium rechargeable battery and lithium rechargeable battery using the same
An anode for a lithium rechargeable battery includes an active material layer that includes a metal-carbon composite active material including a carbonaceous active material and at least one active material selected from the group consisting of a metal or a metal oxide, graphite particles having surfaces that are coated or partially coated with a resin f, and a binder that binds and fixes the active material particles and the graphite particles to each other. The anode further includes a collector on which the active material layer is disposed. The resin-coated graphite particles maintain multiple conductive contact surfaces between the active material particles due to adhesiveness of the resin even when the volume of the metal-carbon composite active material particles is changed during charging and discharging, and prevent a reduction of the battery capacity and improve the lifetime of the battery.
US08263261B2 Active material for non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, and non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery comprising it
Disclosed are an active material for non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery usable as a power source for backup, which has a large battery capacity and which may prevent the increase in the internal resistance after a storage test; and a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery comprising the active material. The active material is used as a positive electrode active material or a negative electrode active material of a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, and this is prepared by adding at least one additive element selected from a group consisting of Al, B, Nb, Ti and W to molybdenum dioxide; and the non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery comprises the active material.
US08263260B2 Method of manufacturing positive electrode for non-aqueous electrolyte battery, slurry used therefor, and non-aqueous electrolyte battery
A method of manufacturing a positive electrode for a non-aqueous electrolyte battery is provided. The positive electrode has a current collector and an active material layer formed on the current collector. The method includes: coating a slurry onto the current collector, the slurry having a pH of from 5 to 9 and containing a positive electrode active material, water as a dispersion medium, carboxymethylcellulose, and a pH adjuster; and drying the coated slurry to form the active material layer.
US08263259B2 Bipolar plates and end plates for fuel cells and methods for making the same
Bipolar plates and end plates for fuel cell stacks. The bipolar plates or end plates may include semi-conductive or conductive bodies, intricate features with close tolerances such as narrow flow channels and conduits with complex flow paths, integral resistive heating elements, internal catalytic reforming capability, integral heat exchanging structure, substantially flat and undistorted contact faces, integral sensors, and internal recuperative heat exchanging capacity. Methods of making bipolar plates and end plates for fuel cell stacks. The methods involve a range of integrated processing techniques that enable a flexible approach to bipolar and end plate design. In addition, the ability to reliably produce features on a small scale allows for the potential miniaturization of bipolar plates and end plates and is therefore ideally suited to further the development of small scale portable fuel cell systems.
US08263257B2 Removable handle for industrial battery
A battery with a pair of handle assemblies that includes a battery casing having a pair of lips extending outwardly from the end walls near the opening in the battery casing. Each lip has a recessed portion with a slot defined by the end wall and a slot side wall. The battery casing also has a pair of protrusions on each of the end walls located below the slot. Each of the handle assemblies has a handle and an attachment structure that includes a substantially flat, rectangular base and a side wall. The back of the side wall has a cavity and a channel extending from an open end at the top edge to a closed end proximate the cavity. The handle includes a strap connected to the side wall on a first end and a loop on the second end. The handles are adapted to pass through the slots on the end walls of the battery casing, the channels are adapted to slidably contact the protrusions on the end walls, the cavities are adapted to detachably engage the protrusions and the bases are adapted to contact the slot side walls.
US08263254B2 Cell with an outer layer of intumescent material
A battery assembly is provided that includes a layer of intumescent material that coats the sidewall and bottom surface of the cell casing, excluding at least one case contact region.
US08263252B2 Unit set having a plurality of lithium rechargeable batteries and a set having a plurality of the unit sets
The present invention relates to a unit set having a plurality of lithium rechargeable batteries, which can receive and protect a plurality of lithium rechargeable batteries comprised of an pouch and an electrode tap and facilely change a voltage and a capacity thereof according to a degree of freedom in a stack structure of the lithium rechargeable batteries, and a set having a plurality of the unit sets.
US08263251B2 Insulating plate of nonaqueous electrolyte secondary cell, nonaqueous electrolyte secondary cell, and method for producing insulating plate of nonaqueous electrolyte secondary cell
An insulating plate of a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary cell is interposed between a cell element and a cover member in a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary cell including the cell element formed by stacking cathodes and anodes through separators, a cell can including a can body which houses the cell element and the cover member which closes an opening of the can body to seal the cell element, and an electrolyte injected into the cell can. The insulating plate includes a plate-shaped insulating plate body having insulating property, an injection hole which passes through the insulating plate body in the thickness direction and through which the electrolyte can be injected, and a filter member permeable to only the electrolyte and provided on one of the surfaces of the insulating plate body so as to cover the injection hole.
US08263244B2 Isolation tray for a battery system
A battery assembly includes a housing and N charge storage devices within the housing. The system also includes a first tray includes a first side that includes X areas that transfer first current from electrolyte leaked from a first one of the N charge storage devices to a current detector. The tray includes a second side that insulates the housing from the electrolyte. N and X are integers greater than or equal to 1.
US08263242B2 Venting mechanisms for battery cells
The provision of improved venting in battery cells by way of better preventing pressure buildup in the cells. Via different variants of the present invention, the following advantages are achieved: Gas can escape from the cell without clogging the vent; gas buildup is avoided while the venting valve can operate in a consistently reliable manner; the solutions presented are sufficiently versatile as to be applicable to a variety of cells on the market; and the risk of explosion is virtually eliminated.
US08263232B2 Composite coated zinc-containing plated steel material superior in corrosion resistance, blackening resistance, coating adhesion, and alkali resistance
The present invention provides a composite coated zinc-containing plated steel material different from the plated steel materials treated by conventional chromate replacement technologies and superior in all of corrosion resistance, blackening resistance, coating adhesion, and alkali resistance. The composite coated zinc-containing plated steel material of the present invention is characterized by having a composite coating formed by coating and drying on the surface of a plated steel material a treatment solution containing a basic zirconium compound, vanadyl (VO2+)-containing compound, phosphoric acid compound, cobalt compound, organic acid, and water and having a pH 7 to 14, the composite coating containing, with respect to the Zr element as 100 parts by mass, V in an amount of 10 to 45 parts by mass, P in 5 to 100 parts by mass, Co in 0.1 to 20 parts by mass, and an organic acid in 10 to 90 parts by mass.
US08263229B1 Composite structures for the absorption of dissolved metals
Irregularly shaped granules of a polymer capable of rapidly removing trace levels of toxic heavy metals from water, but posing high resistance to the flow of water, are trapped within interstitial spaces of a shape-retaining porous matrix of intercontacting fibers, forming a composite structure useful in on-the-run water remediations. The composite structure is produced by generating the granules within the matrix.
US08263226B2 Moisture-curing hotmelt adhesives comprising at least one silane-functional polyurethane prepolymer
The present invention relates to moisture-curing hotmelt adhesive compositions which comprise at least one silane-functional polyurethane prepolymer of the formula (I). The compositions have neither heating nor curing bubbles and feature an exceptional viscosity stability at high temperatures. These hotmelt adhesives are therefore suitable especially for industrial manufacture and especially of transparent materials.
US08263225B2 Laminate composition for producing reduced curl flat thin core laminate
Copper clad laminates having reduced laminate curl include copper foil with a tensile strength of less than 47 ksi.
US08263222B2 Organosilicone fine particles, having specific surface characteristics method of producing same, and cosmetics, resin compositions and development toners containing same
Organosilicone fine particles of size in the range of 0.1-20 μm, each having 20 or more faces with indefinite shapes and a network of convex parts that surround these faces with indefinite shapes on its surface, and being spherical as a whole respond to highly advanced requirements of recent years including improvements in optical characteristics of resin compounds, usability and feeling of cosmetics and maintainability of fluidity of development toners. The invention further provides methods of producing such organosilicone fine particles.
US08263218B2 Modified surfaces and method for modifying a surface
A surface modified substrate includes a substrate having a surface, a layer of nanoscale inorganic oxide particles disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate, said layer of nanoscale inorganic oxide particles comprising sites bearing an electric charge of a first polarity, and a monolayer of a polymer disposed on a least a portion of the layer of nanoscale inorganic oxide particles, said monolayer of polymer comprising sites bearing an electric charge of a second polarity, wherein the second polarity is the opposite of the first polarity.
US08263216B2 Epoxy resin composition for fiber-reinforced composite material, prepreg, and fiber-reinforced composite material
Disclosed is a fiber-reinforced composite material that is high in heat resistance and strength while being low in the content of volatile matter that volatilizes during curing. Also disclosed are an epoxy resin composition for production thereof, and a prepreg produced from the epoxy resin composition. Specifically the invention provides an epoxy resin composition comprising: [A] an epoxy resin comprising two or more ring structures each consisting of four or more members, and at least one amine type or ether type glycidyl group directly connected to the ring structures, [B] a tri- or more-functional epoxy resin, and [C] a curing agent, and also provides a prepreg produced by impregnating reinforcing fiber with the epoxy resin composition and a fiber-reinforced composite material produced by curing the prepreg.
US08263208B2 Embossed plastic films for laminated glass
The invention relates to a plastic film, at least one side of which is provided with a surface structure comprising parallel rows of elevations (a). Said elevations (a) are interconnected by means of webs (b) that are at least 10 percent lower than the elevations (a). The inventive films can be used for producing laminated glass.
US08263207B2 Gas diffusion layer, manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method thereof
A gas diffusion layer, a manufacturing apparatus and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The gas diffusion layer having different hydrophilic/hydrophobic structure and channel therein can be manufactured quickly and easily by using a coating mask. The gas diffusion layer is used in various fuel cells to enhance the ability of water management and to solve the problem of flooding at the cathode, the problem of water deficit at the anode, and the problem of gas transfer. The gas diffusion layer includes a gas diffusion medium having a first property and a micro porous layer having a second property. The micro porous layer is formed on one surface of the gas diffusion medium. The micro porous layer has a plurality of channel layers penetrating the gas diffusion medium. One of the first property and the second property is hydrophilic, and the other is hydrophobic.
US08263206B2 Layered film compositions, packages prepared therefrom, and methods of use
The invention relates to a perforated film composition, comprising at least three layers, and wherein at least one layer is a inner layer with a softening and/or melting temperature, lower than the respective softening and/or melting temperatures of at least two outer layers, located at opposite surfaces of the inner layer, and where upon exposure to elevated temperature, the inner layer softens or melts to such an extent, that upon exposure to a compression force, a sufficient number of perforations seal in the inner layer, to impart an increased moisture barrier to the overall film composition. The invention also relates to a method of forming such a perforated film composition, packages prepared from the same, and a method of filling packages prepared from the perforated film composition.
US08263205B2 Method of molding complex composite parts using pre-plied multi-directional continuous fiber laminate
Layers of unidirectional (UD) fiber prepreg are formed into a pre-plied, multi-directional, continuous fiber laminate that is used as a molding compound to form three dimensional structures. Cut-outs from the laminate are slotted and folded along fold lines to provide near-net-shaped preforms that may be compression molded to form fiber-reinforced composite structures having complex shapes.
US08263198B2 System and method for creating high gloss plastic items via the use of styrenic copolymers as a coextruded layer
The present techniques provide multi-layer plastic structures and methods for making such. The multi-layer plastic structures include an inner surface made from a polyolefin resin, and resistant to environmental stress cracking, and an outer surface that includes a styrenic copolymer. The outer surface has a kinetic coefficient of friction with itself of 0.42 and a static coefficient of friction with itself of 0.44.
US08263197B2 Polylactic acid shrink films and methods of casting same
A heat-shrinkable polylactic acid (PLA) film and a method of its manufacture are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the PLA films exhibit heat-induced shrinkage in the transverse direction with little to no concomitant shrinkage in the machine direction. The films may comprise any grade of PLA polymer, optionally including additives, such as antiblock, slip, plasticizers, viscosity enhancers and combinations thereof. A method of cast and tenner manufacture is disclosed, which includes a temperature conditioning step.
US08263194B2 Color filter and method of fabricating the same
A color filter having a bi-layer metal grating is formed by nanoimprint lithography. Nanoimprint lithography, a low cost technology, includes two alternatives, i.e., hot-embossing nanoimprint lithography and UV-curable nanoimprint lithography. Manufacture steps includes providing a substrate with a polymer material layer disposed thereon. A plurality of lands and grooves are formed in the polymer material layer, and a first metal layer and a second metal layer are disposed on the surfaces of the lands and grooves, respectively. Finally, a color filter having a bi-layer metal grating is obtained.
US08263189B2 Layer forming method and layer forming apparatus, and method of manufacturing radiation detector
A layer-forming apparatus coats a solution containing a layer component and a flammable solvent on a surface of a base material, and forms a layer on the surface of the base material. In the layer-forming apparatus, a coating chamber in which the solution is coated on the surface of the base material is closed substantially hermetically, and a clean air is supplied from a clean-air supplier to the coating chamber. Then, ions that are produced by a corona discharger are sprayed to the surface of the base material in a state that a vapor concentration of the solvent in the coating chamber is below a burning lower limit, and dusts are removed from the base material. Then, the solution is coated on the surface of the base material from which the dusts are removed.
US08263188B2 Composition for photo-alignment film, photo-alignment film and method for producing the same, liquid crystal cell, and liquid crystal display
Provided is a composition for a photo-alignment film includes a compound expressed by the following general formula (I) and a compound expressed by the following general formula (II):
US08263187B2 Composite of support matrix and collagen, and method for production of support matrix and composite
A cylindrical body is produced which is composed of a fiber structure with a basis weight of 1-50 g/m2 and having a diameter of 0.5-50 mm and a bellows-shaped section, wherein the crest-to-crest spacing of the bellows-shaped section is no greater than 2 mm and the crest-to-valley depth of the bellows-shaped section is 0.01-1 mm; collagen is added to the cylindrical body to produce a composite including the cylindrical body and collagen.
US08263186B2 Paper articles exhibiting long term storageability and method for making same
A method for increasing the long term storageability of a cellulosic paper or paperboard product. The method includes providing a paper or paperboard product made from cellulosic fibers having a basis weight ranging from about 80 to about 300 pounds per 3000 square feet. A holdout material is applied to at least one surface of the paper or paperboard product. The web is then coated with an ink receptive material selected from the group consisting of an aqueous acrylic polymer coating material, an aqueous biocidal agent and a combination of aqueous acrylic polymer coating material and aqueous biocidal agent and dried to provide a paper or paperboard product having enhanced long term storageability. Webs made according to the invention are suitable for making file folders which exhibit improve long term storageability by resisting damage from moisture and/or biological activity.
US08263185B2 Bonding agent containing a silane reaction product
The invention relates to compositions comprising or consisting of a reaction product obtained from a reaction mixture of aminosilane of formula (I), a mecaptosilane of formula (II) and an epoxysilane of formula (III). Said compositions are suitable as bonding agents, especially in the form of primers. The compositions are highly adhesive and especially suitable for low-temperature applications and especially for sticking glass together.
US08263179B2 Process for producing zeolite separation membrane
A process for producing a zeolite separation membrane having a porous support containing alumina as a main component and, provided on a surface and within pores of the porous support, a zeolite layer, comprising the seed crystal adhering step of adhering USY zeolite crystal as a seed crystal on a surface and within pores of the porous support; the basis material forming step of bringing a reactant liquid containing silicon and aluminum into contact with the porous support and heating the reactant liquid to thereby obtain a zeolite separation membrane basis material; and the basis material separating step of separating the zeolite separation membrane basis material from the reactant liquid to thereby obtain a zeolite separation membrane. By this process for producing a zeolite separation membrane, there can be produced an FAU zeolite separation membrane capable of satisfactory separation of a mixture of organic solvent and water.
US08263177B2 Organic polymer coating for protection against creep corrosion
A process is described for treating metal surfaces printed wiring boards and similar substrates to provide improved creep corrosion resistance on such surfaces. A modified organic solderability preservative composition is used in combination with an emulsion polymer to provide a modified polymer coating on the metal surface finish via a chemical reaction to provide enhanced corrosion protection of the surface.
US08263172B2 Method for producing optical element having multi-layered film
A method for producing an optical element, in which a multi-layered film is provided on a plastic substrate, having a resistance against lights in a wavelength range of 300 nm to 450 nm, is provided. The method for producing the optical element according to the invention, is an method for producing an optical element having a multi-layered film in which a layer made of a low-refractive-index material and a layer made of a high-refractive-index material are alternately formed on a plastic substrate, the optical element being used for light in a wavelength range of 300 nm to 450 nm. The optical element producing method includes the steps of forming alternately the layer made of the low-refractive-index material and the layer made of the high-refractive-index material on the plastic substrate to produce the optical element while plasma or ionized gas is generated by a generation source in forming at least the layer made of the high-refractive-index material under a predetermined producing conditions; measuring an oxygen permeability coefficient of the produced optical element; and changing one of an output of the generation source, an ambient gas pressure in forming the layer made of the low-refractive-index material, and an ambient gas pressure in forming the layer made of the high-refractive-index material among the predetermined producing conditions when the oxygen permeability coefficient of the produced optical element is more than 30 cm3·mm/(m2·24 hr·atm).
US08263171B2 Methods for making drug-eluting medical devices
The present invention is directed to medical implants that are configured to controllably release therapeutic agent to a target site of a patient and methods of making these implants. Embodiments of the present invention may include a method comprising the steps of providing a tube having a wall with inner and outer surfaces and defining a passageway, forming an opening through the wall of the tube, applying a porous coating layer to at least one of the inner and outer surfaces of the tube, and loading a therapeutic agent solution into the passageway so that therapeutic agent passes through the opening and into the porous coating layer. The method may also include removing portions of the tube to form the implantable medical device, which may be a stent.
US08263170B2 Methods for immobilizing anti-thrombogenic material onto a medical device or into a coating thereon
The present invention is directed to a medical device having a polymerized base coat layer for the immobilization of an anti-thrombogenic material, such as heparin, thereon. The binding coat layer is comprised of various chemically functional groups which are stable and allow for the immobilization of the anti-thrombogenic material thereto. Methods for immobilizing the anti-thrombogenic material within the base coat layer posited on a surface of the medical device are also provided.
US08263169B2 Stent mandrel fixture and method for reducing coating defects
A stent mandrel fixture for supporting a stent during the application of a coating substance is provided.
US08263167B2 Sorghum antioxidant food product
The present invention is related to processes for the manufacture of a cereal product having an improved anti-oxidant content with high ORAC values and the product thereof. In addition, the present invention relates to a method of using this product to increase the anti-oxidant levels of a mammal. The milled grain may then be ground into flour which is then used to make the product desired. Particularly high ORAC values result from the use of a specific type of sorghum that contains high levels of tannin. The high tannin level sorghum is milled and ground and placed into formulations in at least partial substitution for the wheat or oat grain, to result in content of high tannin sorghum bran of 3-10% and whole grain high tannin sorghum of 50-60%.
US08263166B2 In-shell egg scrambler and method of using same
An in-shell-scrambled-egg is shown. The scrambled egg includes a natural poultry natural egg wherein the nested layers of the egg are scrambled and the shell of the egg is unbroken. In addition an in-shell egg scrambler is also shown and includes a rotation unit operatively connected to an egg retention portion designed adapted to rotate the egg retention portion such that an egg retained therein is scrambled without breaking the shell thereof. The egg rotation can be controlled by a controller and a sensor can recognize that the egg is scrambled.
US08263164B2 Heat stable nutritional beverage and method of preparing it
A heat stable nutritional beverage having a pH of 6.6-8.2 comprising 5-12% w/w whey protein is obtained by incorporating 4-16% w/w of at least one sugar selected from di-oligo- and polysaccharides, wherein at least one monosaccharide is other than glucose.
US08263161B2 Taste improving substances
The present invention in a first aspect relates to taste improvement of foodstuffs, beverages, tobacco products and oral care products, using a substance according to formula (I), edible salts or edible esters thereof: It was found that substances represented by formula (I) are capable of modifying and complementing, the sensory impact of taste imparting substances. Thus, the present taste improving substances are advantageously applied in flavor compositions, foodstuffs, tobacco products and oral care products. Typical examples of taste improving substances according to the present invention include N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 3-hydroxypropionamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 3-hydroxybutyramide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 4-hydroxybutyramide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) N-5-hydroxypentanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 4-hydroxypentanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 3-hydroxypentanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 2-methyl-4-hydroxy-butyramide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 2-methyl-3-hydroxybutyramide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) N-6-hydroxyhexanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 5-hydroxyhexanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 4-hydroxyhexanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 3-hydroxyhexanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 4-hydroxy-2-keto-3-methyl-pentanoylamide; N-(2-hydroxyethyl) 4-hydroxy-2-keto-3-methyl-hexanoylamide and mixtures thereof.
US08263158B2 Meat stretching device and method
The invention provides a meat stretching device. The device includes a receptacle and a flexible sleeve. The flexible sleeve is mounted within the receptacle, the flexible sleeve having a cross-section that defines an aperture to receive one or more cuts of meat. The receptacle is connectable to an air pressure device that is capable of generating a positive pressure in the receptacle to cause the flexible sleeve to constrict around and stretch the one or more cuts of meat that are received in the aperture. In one form the flexible sleeve has a first end and a second end, and a cross-section that defines an aperture, the first end being adapted to receive one or more cuts of meat and the second end being adapted to allow the one or more cuts of meat to be removed from the flexible sleeve. In this form the flexible sleeve is mounted within the receptacle such that an airtight volume is formed between the flexible sleeve and the receptacle. The flexible sleeve constricts around and stretches the one or more cuts of meat when the airtight volume is subjected to positive pressure. The invention further provides a related method of stretching meat.
US08263157B2 Pelletization method for raw royal jelly
An objective of the present invention is to enable 100% assimilation of all the nutritional components of raw royal jelly, by manufacturing pelletized royal jelly of a predetermined granule size distribution that is easy to ingest, which can be preserved at room temperature and pressure. The pelletization method for raw royal jelly in accordance with the present invention comprises the steps of preparing raw royal jelly; mixing the raw royal jelly with a predetermined partially pregelatinized starch at a predetermined mixture ratio, at room temperature and pressure but without heating; pelletizing the resultant product at room temperature and pressure but without heating; and dehydrating the resultant product at room temperature and pressure to a predetermined moisture, in order to create pelletized royal jelly having a predetermined granule size distribution.
US08263155B2 Beverage dispenser outlet and a method of preparing a beverage with same
A beverage dispenser, including a whipper disk and a dispensing spout connected downstream to the housing for dispensing the whipped beverage mixture. A sieve is disposed within the dispensing spout and is configured for reducing the number of large bubbles present within the fluid over a predetermined size. An output plate covers a downstream end of the dispensing spout and has a plurality of holes formed therein for reducing the velocity of the whipped beverage mixture through the dispensing spout.
US08263150B2 Beverage compositions having low levels of preservative with enhanced microbial stability
The present disclosure relates to beverage compositions comprising low levels of preservative, without the need for hot or aseptic packing. In particular, the present invention relates to beverage compositions comprising: (a) from about 20 ppm to about 90 ppm of a preservative selected from the group consisting of sorbic acid, benzoic acid, alkali metal salts thereof and mixtures thereof; (b) from about 300 ppm to about 3000 ppm of a polyphosphate having the structure:  where n averages from about 3 to about 100 and each M is independently selected from the group consisting of sodium and potassium; and (c) water; wherein the beverage composition has a pH of from about 2 to about 5 and a total hardness of from 0 to about 300.
US08263146B2 Consumable product containing probiotics
The present invention relates to any kinds of consumable products enriched with probiotics and a method for obtaining them. After production of probiotic biomass, the probiotics are applied to the product. Also metabolites obtained from a fermentation product may be directly applied to a consumable product.
US08263143B2 Degradable chewing gum
The present invention provides gum base compositions and chewing gum compositions having non stick or reduced-stick properties and/or increased degradability. Methods of preparing the gum base and chewing gum compositions, as well as methods of use, are provided.
US08263136B2 Low dose colonic cleansing system
A method of colonic cleansing that includes administering orally a first dose and a second dose of a liquid osmotic colonic evacuant composition. The second dose includes an amount of the liquid osmotic colonic evacuant composition that is 55% to 95% of the amount of the first dose.
US08263129B2 Methods for fabricating isolated micro-and nano-structures using soft or imprint lithography
The presently disclosed subject matter describes the use of fluorinated elastomer-based materials, in particular perfluoropolyether (PFPE)-based materials, in high-resolution soft or imprint lithographic applications, such as micro- and nanoscale replica molding, and the first nano-contact molding of organic materials to generate high fidelity features using an elastomeric mold. Accordingly, the presently disclosed subject matter describes a method for producing free-standing, isolated nanostructures of any shape using soft or imprint lithography techniques.
US08263126B2 Orally-dispersible multilayer tablet
The present invention relates to a multilayer orodispersible tablet and to the process for preparing it.
US08263120B2 Oral antimicrobial pharmaceutical compositions
The present invention relates to oral pharmaceutical compositions with controlled and/or programmed release containing at least one active ingredient having antimicrobial and/or anti-infectious activity for the treatment of infections of the large intestine, in particular the colon.
US08263113B2 Method for increasing the shelf life of a physically discrete dry pet food composition
A composition comprising a physically discrete pet food oral intake composition coated with a physically stable film, the film comprising a component which is a) capable of carrying a beneficial agent to a site in the pet wherein the benefit agent is effective in producing a beneficial effect or b) capable of releasing the benefit agent into the mouth or alimentary canal with the benefit agent traveling to a site in the pet wherein the benefit agent is effective in producing a beneficial effect.
US08263109B2 Injectable bulking compositions
According to an aspect of the invention, injectable bulking compositions are provided which contain the following: (a) fibers that are configured to prevent migration to locations in the body remote from the injection site, for example, because they have a minimum length that is sufficiently large to prevent migration of the fibers and/or because they have surface features that stimulate host tissue response to lock the fibers in position and (b) a carrier in an amount effective to render the composition injectable.
US08263108B2 Zero-order prolonged release coaxial implants
A coaxial implant has been developed using entirely biodegradable polymeric materials. As referred to herein, a coaxial implant is a device having a core containing drug, surrounded by a semi-permeable membrane that controls the rate of release of material from the core. The device is formed by extrusion, using a pre-milling and extruding step to maximize uniformity of drug dispersion within the polymeric material. In one embodiment, the polymer is processed to yield a semi-crystalline polymer, rather than an amorphous polymer. The core containing the drug and the polymer membrane(s) can be the same or different polymer. The polymer can be the same or different composition (i.e., both polycaprolactone, or both poly(lactide-co-glycolide) of different monomer ratios, or polycaprolactone outside of a core of poly(lactide)), of the same or different molecular weights, and of the same or different chemical structure (i.e., crystalline, semi-crystalline or amorphous). The core acts as a reservoir of drug, which partitions from the core polymer to form a saturated solution of at least 10% drug at the polymer membrane.
US08263102B2 Drug delivery coating for use with a stent
A coated medical device an a method of providing a coating on an implantable medical device result in a medical device having a bio-absorbable coating. The coating includes a bio-absorbable carrier component. In addition to the bio-absorbable carrier component, a therapeutic agent component can also be provided. The coated medical device is implantable in a patient to effect controlled delivery of the coating, including the therapeutic agent, to the patient.
US08263101B2 Passive methods for anti-microbial biological meshes
Tissue matrices having anti-microbial properties are provided. In certain embodiments, the tissue matrices include cationic anti-microbial agents that form a stable bond with the tissue matrices without adversely affecting the biologic properties of the tissue matrices.
US08263098B2 High alcohol content foaming compositions with silicone-based surfactants
This invention relates to a “high lower alcohol content” (>40% v/v of a C1-4 alcohol) liquid composition able to be dispensed as a stable foam with the use of non-propellant foam dispensing devices from non-pressurized containers. The liquid compositions comprise an alcohol, C1-4 (>40% v/v), a silicone-based surfactant of at least 0.001% by weight to prepare a foamable composition, 0-10% w/w of additional minor components added to obtain the desired performance (a foamable composition), and the balance being purified water. The compositions may include emulsifier-emollients and mosturizers, secondary surfactants, foam stabilizers, fragrances, antimicrobial agents, other type of medicinal ingredients, and the like ingredients or additives or combinations thereof commonly added to alcohol gels or foams, aerosol compositions or to toiletries, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and the like.
US08263096B2 Method for incorporating high levels of emollient oils into bodywash
Bodywash compositions incorporating high levels of emollient oils and a method for incorporating such high levels of emollient into bodywash compositions.
US08263094B2 Esters of 4,5-disubstituted-oxy-2-methyl-3,6-dioxo-cyclohexa-1,4-dienyl alkyl acids and preparation thereof
Esters of 4,5-disubstituted-oxy-2-methyl-3,6-dioxo-cyclohexa-1,4-dienyl alkyl acids were prepared chemically and/or enzymatically. Depending upon the ester, improved melanocyte cytotoxicity was achieved. Improved cytotoxicity characteristics are consistent with ester analogs being more physiologically compatible and less irritating to skin than their corresponding acids.
US08263089B2 Compounds and methods for treatment and diagnosis of chlamydial infection
Compounds and methods for the diagnosis and treatment of Chlamydial infection are disclosed. The compounds provided include polypeptides that contain at least one antigenic portion of a Chlamydia antigen and DNA sequences encoding such polypeptides. Pharmaceutical compositions and vaccines comprising such polypeptides or DNA sequences are also provided, together with antibodies directed against such polypeptides. Diagnostic kits containing such polypeptides or DNA sequences and a suitable detection reagent may be used for the detection of Chlamydial infection in patients and in biological samples.
US08263087B2 Compositions and methods for vaccinating against HSV-2
This invention relates to a method for systemic immune activation which is effective for eliciting both a systemic, non-antigen specific immune response and a strong antigen-specific immune response in a mammal. The method is particularly effective for protecting a mammal from herpes simplex virus. Also disclosed are therapeutic compositions useful in such a method.
US08263086B2 SlpA as a tool for recombinant protein and enzyme technology
Disclosed are a recombinant DNA molecule encoding a fusion protein comprising a SlpA chaperone and a target polypeptide wherein human FK506 binding proteins (FKBPs) are excluded as target polypeptides, a corresponding expression vector encoding said fusion protein as well as host cells transformed with said expression vector. Also disclosed are a method for producing the fusion protein, a recombinantly produced fusion protein comprising a SlpA chaperone and a target polypeptide. A further aspect of the invention is the use of the recombinantly produced fusion protein, and a reagent kit containing a recombinantly produced fusion protein comprising a SlpA chaperone and a target polypeptide.
US08263079B2 Antibodies against CSF-1R
The invention provides a human antibody that binds human CSF-1R with high affinity. Antibodies of the present invention have significant advantages over the antibodies known in the art by being multifunctional: inhibiting signaling of CSF-1R, internalizing and inducing CSF-1R degradation and stimulating ADCC in cell including tumors, macrophages and monocytes. They are also shown to be effective in treating leukemia, breast, endometrial and prostate cancer alone or in combination with docetaxel, paclitaxel, Herceptin® or doxorubicin.
US08263074B2 Fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 inhibitors and methods of treatment thereof
The present invention is directed to an antibody or fragments thereof that are specific for a fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)-1(IIIb), FGFR-1(IIIc), and/or FGFR-4. Also, provided herein, are vectors and host cells comprising the nucleic acids encoding those antibodies. The present invention further provides methods of antagonizing FGFR-1 or FGFR-4 as a treatment for obesity, diabetes, or a condition related thereto, and methods of reducing food intake.
US08263073B2 Anti-CTLA-4 antibodies with reduced blocking of binding of CTLA-4 to B7 and uses thereof
The present invention provides isolated monoclonal antibodies that bind to CTLA-4 and that are capable of increasing the response of T cells to antigenic stimulation in vivo yet the antibodies do not substantially block the binding of CTLA-4 to B7 ligands (e.g., B7-1 and B7-2) in vitro. Thus, the antibodies of the invention demonstrate that is it possible to separate the immunostimulatory function of anti-CTLA-4 antibodies from their ability to block the binding of B7 ligands. Immunoconjugates, bispecific molecules and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the antibodies of the invention are also provided. The invention also provides methods for increasing the response of T cells to antigenic stimulation using the antibodies of the invention, including methods for treating cancer using the antibodies of the invention.
US08263072B2 ADAMTS4 as a blood biomarker and therapeutic target for chronic renal failure
ADAMTS4 is found to be useful as a blood biomarker for chronic renal failure and also as a therapeutic target for treating chronic renal failure in a human individual. A change in the level of expression of selected genes as disclosed herein in kidney tissue of an individual may also be used to diagnose chronic renal failure in an individual.
US08263071B2 Protein involved in ovarian cancer
The present invention relates to new uses of CDCP1 in the diagnosis, screening, treatment and prophylaxis of ovarian cancer. The invention also provides compositions comprising CDCP1, including vaccines, antibodies that are immunospecific for CDCP1 and agents which interact with or modulate the expression or activity of CDCP1 or which modulate the expression of the nucleic acid which codes for CDCP1.
US08263067B2 Adenoviral systems and the uses thereof
The invention is related to a nucleic acid comprising an adenoviral nucleic acid, which also comprises a nucleic acid sequence coding for YB-1.
US08263066B2 Methods for treating cancers and pathogen infections using antigen-presenting cells loaded with RNA
Disclosed are cells and methods for treating or preventing tumor formation or infections with pathogens in a patient. The cells of the invention are antigen-presenting cells (e.g., dendritic cells or macrophage) that have been loaded with RNA derived from tumors or pathogens. By administering the RNA-loaded antigen-presenting cells to a patient, tumor formation or pathogen infections can be treated or prevented. Alternatively, the RNA-loaded cells can be used as stimulator cells in the ex vivo expansion of CTL. Such CTL can then be used in a variation of conventional adoptive immunotherapy techniques.
US08263065B2 Tumor suppression using human placental perfusate and human placenta-derived intermediate natural killer cells
Provided herein are placental perfusate, placental perfusate cells, and placenta-derived intermediate natural killer cells, and combinations thereof. Also provided herein are compositions comprising the same, and methods of using placental perfusate, placental perfusate cells, and placenta-derived intermediate natural killer cells, and combinations thereof, to suppress the growth or proliferation of tumor cells, cancer cells, and the like, and to treat individuals having tumor cells.
US08263064B2 Method of suppressing disease severity of multiple sclerosis using chemokine CXC11
A method of treating an autoimmune disease such as Multiple Sclerosis is disclosed. The method comprises administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of CXCL11. Polypeptides and pharmaceutical compositions for treating same are also disclosed.
US08263062B2 Multi-arm polymer prodrugs
Provided herein are water-soluble prodrugs. The prodrugs of the invention comprise a water-soluble polymer having three or more arms, at least three of which are covalently attached to an active agent, e.g., a small molecule. The conjugates of the invention provide an optimal balance of polymer size and structure for achieving improved drug loading, since the conjugates of the invention possess three or more active agents releasably attached to a multi-armed water soluble polymer. The prodrugs of the invention are therapeutically effective, and exhibit improved properties in-vivo when compared to unmodified parent drug.
US08263059B2 Compositions and kits for the removal of irritating compounds from bodily surfaces
The invention provides compositions, methods and kits for the removal of harmful or irritating substances from bodily surfaces. Kits may include a composition containing capsaicin and a capsaicin-cleansing composition, e.g., a composition in which capsaicin is soluble.
US08263058B2 Personal care compositions that deposit hydrophilic benefit agents
A personal care composition is provided that comprises a hydrophilic liquid, a structurant for the hydrophilic liquid, a surface active, a lipid, and an aqueous phase. The lipid, hydrophilic liquid, structurant, and surface active are included in a lipid phase. The hydrophilic liquid, structurant, and surface active are connected to the lipid in the lipid phase. These compositions provide improved skin and/or hair moisturization, appearance, aesthetics and skin and/or hair conditioning during and/or after application, and are useful in providing improved deposition to the desired area of the skin and/or hair. A method of using the personal care composition is also provided.
US08263057B2 Mascara composition containing shape-memory polymers, gels, and fibers
Cosmetic compositions containing an eyelash curling or branching agent, or a skin-lifting mask or lotion. The mascara composition comprises a SMP, at least one film-forming polymer and at least one wax and leads to a make-up product with good staying power, as well as good coating and curling. The skin-lifting mask or lotion comprises a SMP, a water phase and an oil phase and leads to a make-up product with a skin-lifting effect. The invention also pertains to a process for coating eyelashes which consists of applying the composition to the eyelashes with heat.
US08263054B2 Method of enhancing hair growth
Methods and compositions for stimulating the growth of hair are disclosed wherein said compositions include a cyclopentane heptanoic acid, 2-cycloalkyl or arylalkyl compound represented by the formula I wherein the dashed bonds represent a single or double bond which can be in the cis or trans configuration, A, B, Z, X, R1 and R2 are as defined in the specification. Such compositions are used in treating the skin or scalp of a human or non-human animal. Bimatoprost is preferred for this treatment.
US08263053B2 Hair treatment compositions
The present invention relates to hair treatment compositions and methods. More particularly, the invention relates to hair treatment compositions comprising lipids and creatine. The hair treatment compositions of the present invention may be used to improve the tensile properties of hair, such as hair elasticity and strength.
US08263040B2 Metal chelates having a perfluorinated PEG radical, processes for their preparation, and their use
The invention relates to the subjects characterized in the patent claims, namely metal chelates having a perfluorinated PEG radical, processes for their preparation, and their use, processes for their preparation and their use in NMR and X-ray diagnosis, radiodiagnosis and radiotherapy, and in MRT lymphography.
US08263028B1 Methods of recovering rare earth elements
Processes described include reacting a fresh or spent catalyst, or sorbent, with a solution containing an extracting agent (such as an acid or a base). Preferably, the catalyst contains both alumina and a molecular sieve (or a sorbent), and the reaction is performed under relatively mild conditions such that the majority of the base material does not dissolve into the solution. Thus, the catalyst can be re-used, and in certain instances the catalyst performance even improves, with or without re-incorporating certain of the metals back into the catalyst. Additionally, metals contained in the catalyst, such as Na, Mg, Al, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, V, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Sr, Zn Sb, Ba, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pb, or their equivalent oxides, can be removed from the catalyst. Some of the metals that are removed are relatively valuable (such as the rare earth elements of La, Ce, Pr and Nd).
US08263023B2 Microfluidic system and method for sorting cell clusters and for the continuous encapsulation thereof following sorting thereof
A microfluidic system and method for sorting cell clusters, and for the continuous and automated encapsulation of the clusters, once sorted, in capsules of sizes suitable for those of these sorted clusters is provided. The microfluidic system comprises a substrate in which a microchannel array comprising a cell sorting unit is etched and around which a protective cover is bonded, and the sorting unit comprises deflection means capable of separating, during the flow thereof, relatively noncohesive cell clusters, each of size ranging from 20 μm to 500 μm and of 20 to 10 000 cells approximately, such as islets of Langerhans, at least two sorting microchannels arranged in parallel at the outlet of said unit being respectively designed so as to transport as many categories of sorted clusters continuously to a unit for encapsulation of the latter, also formed in said array.
US08263017B2 Temperature-switching materials having improved strength and thermal properties
The subject matter described herein relates to thermoresponsive switching materials that undergo a thermal transition over a narrow temperature range and to devices, such as actuators, indicators, and sensors, prepared from such compositions.
US08263014B2 Method and apparatus for generating a carbon nanotube
In an apparatus and method of generating a carbon nanotube (CNT), a process chamber is heated to a target temperature and a catalyst powder is supplied into the heated process chamber. The catalyst powder moves in a first direction in the process chamber. A source gas is supplied into the process chamber in a second direction opposite to the first direction, so that the source gas delays the movement of the catalyst powder in the first direction and is reacted with the catalyst powder in the process chamber to thereby produce the CNT in the process chamber. Accordingly, the flow of the source gas against the flow of the catalyst powder reduces the drop velocity of the catalyst powder. Therefore, the source gas and the catalyst powder may be reacted with each other for a sufficiently long time.
US08263013B2 Method for removing micro-bubbles and/or particles from liquid, liquid supply apparatus and immersion exposure apparatus
A liquid supply apparatus capable of removing micro-bubbles and particles is described, including a pipe, a laser provider and at least one micro-bubble/particle outlet. The laser provider provides a laser crossing the pipe, wherein the laser is provided in a manner such that a micro-bubble/particle blocking/repelling barrier is formed crossing the pipe blocking or repelling micro-bubbles, particles or both in the liquid in the pipe. The micro-bubble/particle outlet is disposed on the pipe between the barrier and the liquid inlet of the pipe, adjacent to the barrier for discharging micro-bubbles, particles or both.
US08263012B2 Photocatalyst protection
A gas treatment system for treating a gas stream containing contaminants includes first and second gas treatment members in fluid communication with each other. Each of the first and second gas treatment members is selectively controllable between an on and an off condition. A third gas treatment member is in fluid communication with the first and second gas treatment members, and the third gas treatment member selectively retains or releases the contaminants based upon the on or off condition of at least one of the first or second gas treatment members.
US08263011B2 Reactor
Reactor 1A includes a reaction vessel 10 having an inlet 4 for a to-be-reformed gas 2 and an outlet 8 for a reformed gas 6, a pair of electrodes 12 for plasma generation, a power source 14 for applying a voltage to the pair of electrodes 12, and a catalyst for promoting a reforming reaction, wherein one of the pair of electrodes 12 is a linear electrode 32, the other of the pair of electrodes 12 is a honeycomb electrode 34 made of a conductive ceramics, and the catalyst is loaded on the partition walls of the honeycomb electrode 34, which reactor further includes shielding members 30A placed between the linear electrode 32 and the honeycomb electrode 34, which are protruded toward the gas-introducing end face side of the honeycomb electrode 34 and prevent the inflow of the to-be-reformed gas 2 passing through a zone other than a plasma-generating zone 42.
US08263010B2 Device for removing pollutants from the exhaust gases of a heat engine
A device for removing pollutants from exhaust gases of a combustion engine, includes a longitudinal outer casing (23) defining a passage through which the exhaust gases flow, and first and second pollution-removal members (18, 20) mounted in series in the passage. The device includes a holding sleeve (38) holding the first pollution-removal member (18) in place and interposed between the first pollution-removal member (18) and the outer casing (23) and running longitudinally at least over most of the length of the first pollution-removal member (18), the holding sleeve (38) being guided in the external casing (23) and forming, between the first and second pollution-removal members (18, 20) a longitudinal thrust surface (40) against which the first pollution-removal member (18) bears.
US08263008B2 Apparatus for improving flow properties of crude petroleum
A process and apparatus for improving flow properties of crude may include processing a first crude stream, which may in turn include cracking the first crude stream with catalyst to form a cracked stream and spent catalyst, hydrotreating a portion of the cracked stream and then mixing the hydrotreated stream with an unprocessed second crude stream.
US08262995B2 System with a pluggable data transfer module which transfers data from an analytical system to a data processing unit
The invention concerns a pluggable data transfer module and a method that can be used to transfer data from an analytical system to a data processing unit in a galvanically decoupled manner. This invention is particularly suitable for medical fields of application in which recently it has become more and more desirable to process analytical data of a patient.
US08262994B2 Analyzer
An analyzer comprising: a first specimen holder configured to hold a plurality of first specimen containers; a conveying assembly for conveying the first specimen containers held in the first specimen holder; a second specimen holder arranged at a position higher than an upper end of the first specimen containers held in the first specimen holder; a holder moving assembly for moving the second specimen holder so as to pass the upper side of at least one of the first specimen containers held in the first specimen holder; a container transferring assembly for transferring at least one of the first specimen containers from the first specimen holder to the second specimen holder; and a controller for controlling the holder moving assembly and the container transferring assembly, is disclosed.
US08262993B2 Slidable autosampler tray
A sample tray assembly includes a first tray. The first tray defines a first slot and is disposed on a generally horizontally-oriented plane. The sample tray assembly also includes a second tray adjacent to the first tray. The second tray is configured for translational movement substantially parallel to the generally horizontally-oriented plane of the first tray between a retracted position and an extended position. The second tray defines a second slot. The second slot and the first slot are substantially aligned when the second tray is in the retracted position. The sample tray additionally includes a base member supporting the first tray. The second tray is slidably coupled with the base member.
US08262989B2 Micro-calorimeter apparatus
A micro-calorimeter apparatus comprises a thermostated housing (3,4,5); a pair of essentially flat heat sinks (9,10), suspended in the housing (2) and thermally floating relative to the environment inside the housing (3,4,5). The heat sinks (9,10) are arranged with their surfaces facing each other. A pair of Peltier elements (11) are thermally attached to the heat sinks (9,10), one element (11) on each heat sink (9,10), on the facing surfaces, forming a gap between them for the accommodation of a generally flat biosensor unit (12).
US08262985B2 Smelting or reduction furnace, in particular electric arc furnace with an open, semi-closed or closed configuration
The invention relates to a melting or reduction furnace (2), in which the charge stock (9) is supplied using feed pipes (17). Each feed pipe (17) has a mouthpiece (18) that is not cooled and is configured from an uncooled wear-resistant inner guide pipe (19) and an uncooled concentric, heat-resistant outer protective pipe (20).
US08262977B2 Process for the manufacture of a shaft bottom
The invention relates to a method for producing a concrete shaft bottom which comprises a drain having a defined shape. According to said method, concrete is introduced into a bottom mold (1) that comprises a mold jacket (2) and a mold bottom (3). On said mold bottom (3), a molded body (8) forming the negative shape of the drain is disposed to configure the drain. The aim of the invention is to allow for the inexpensive and mechanized production of a shaft bottom having an individual drain. For this purpose, the molded body (8) is configured from at least one molded piece (9) that is fixed on the bottom mold (1), especially on the mold bottom (3). The molded piece (9) is adapted to the dimensions of the defined shape of the drain and is removed from the shaft bottom once or while the formwork is dismantled from the shaft bottom.
US08262971B2 Method of centralizing and retaining molded end coils in magnet formers
A method for centralising and retaining a molded end coil (20) in a magnet former (12) which includes an oversleeve (24) for retaining the end coil in position, the radially outer (A2) surface of the end coil being of lesser diameter than the radially inner surface of the oversleeve. The method comprises the steps of: (a) centralising the end coil (20) on the former (12) by passing a spigot (28) through the bore of the end coil and into the end of the bore of the former to locate the end coil within the oversleeve and to leave a gap (30) between the radially outer surface of the end coil and the oversleeve; (b) retaining the end coil in position against an axially adjacent surface of the former by applying an axial force to the end coil in the direction of the former; (c) filling the gap with a hardening material (42) along at least part of its axial length; (d) causing or allowing the hardening material to harden, thereby to securely and accurately retain the end coil onto the former; and (e) removing the spigot.
US08262968B2 Vehicle component and method for making a vehicle component
A molded article with multi-material or color and soft portions and a method of making the same is disclosed. The molded article comprises a multi injection substrate, and a coverstock or skin. The article is formed by a process wherein the coverstock or skin is secured within the mold, a first material is injected into a first cavity, a retractor member is moved to define a second cavity, and a second material is injected into the second cavity. The first and second materials may be different types of plastic, different colors, or combinations thereof. The first cavity is defined by two mold sections (e.g., a cavity and a core) and the retractor member. The second cavity is also defined by the two mold sections, the retractor member, and the (at least partially) hardened first material. The first material may be configured to couple to the second material by a locking interface provided by recesses and/or projections on the mold sections. A method of forming the flexible skin may include coupling a compressible material to the skin; positioning the skin and compressible material in a mold; and forming a rigid substrate around the skin and compressible material providing a first soft region wherein the compressible material is disposed between the skin and the substrate so that a first soft region is defined by the compressible material.
US08262966B2 Process for cooling flat plastic products
Method for cooling flat plastic products, in which plasticized plastic compound is fed to a calender via a slot nozzle by means of an extruder and is rolled and calibrated to the desired shape in this calender between at least two smoothing rolls, after which the film or sheet produced in this way is fed to a chill section comprising a plurality of adjustable rolls and passes through this section until it is sufficiently cool and dimensionally stable, at least both the gap width between the rolls and the speed of the rolls being controllable by open- and/or closed-loop control.The degree of wrap of the flat plastic product around the respective roll is varied by adjusting the rolls in the chill section into a mutually offset arrangement, hence increasing or minimizing the cooling capacity.
US08262965B2 Cure growth control apparatus
An apparatus for curing a composite assembly may include a base tool, a growth control apparatus, and at least one engagement fitting. The base tool may have a different thermal expansion growth rate than a composite assembly to be cured using the apparatus. The growth control apparatus may have a different thermal expansion growth rate than the base tool. The engagement fitting may be moveably disposed relative to the base tool and connected to the growth control apparatus. The engagement fitting may hold a composite assembly being cured against the engagement fitting. The growth control apparatus may grow a pre-determined amount during curing of a composite assembly to produce a cured composite assembly having a pre-determined design dimension.
US08262964B2 Refractory alloy, fibre-forming plate and method for producing mineral wool
An alloy, characterized in that it contains the following elements (the proportions being indicated in percentages by weight of the alloy): Cr: 23 to 34% Ti:0.2 to 5% Ta:0.5 to 7% C:0.2 to 1.2% Ni:less than 5% Fe:less than 3% Si:less than 1% Mn:less than 0.5%, the balance consisting of cobalt and inevitable impurities. An article for the manufacture of mineral wool, especially fiberizing spinner, made of such an alloy.
US08262963B2 Process of making bioabsorbable filaments
Methods for making bioabsorbable copolymer filaments are provided herein. The methods include drying the polymer pellets to be extruded, melt extrusion of copolymer components, stretching the filaments in one or more draw steps and permitting the drawn filaments to relax. The copolymer preferably contains units derived from glycolide or glycolic acid and units derived from an alkylene carbonate, such as, for example, trimethylene carbonate.
US08262961B2 Aromatic vinyl ether based reverse-tone step and flash imprint lithography
A molding composition and a method of forming an pattern. The method includes forming on a substrate a molding layer of a molding composition of aromatic divinyl ethers; pressing the template into the molding layer, the template having a relief pattern, the molding layer filling voids in the relief pattern, the template not contacting the substrate; exposing the molding layer to actinic radiation, the actinic radiation converting the molding layer to a cured molding layer having thick and thin regions corresponding to the relief pattern; removing the template; filling the thin regions of the relief pattern with a backfill material; removing regions of the molding layer not protected by the backfill material to expose regions of the substrate; forming trenches in the exposed regions of the substrate; and removing any remaining molding layer and backfill material. A transfer layer may be used between the molding layer and the substrate.
US08262958B2 Process of making woven articles comprising water-dispersible multicomponent fibers
Disclosed are water-dispersible fibers derived from sulfopolyesters having a Tg of at least 25° C. The fibers may contain a single sulfopolyester or a blend of a sulfopolyester with a water-dispersible or water-nondispersible polymer. Also disclosed are multicomponent fibers comprising a water dispersible sulfopolyester having a Tg of at least 57° C. and a water non-dispersible polymer. The multicomponent fibers may be used to produce microdenier fibers. Fibrous articles may be produced from the water-dispersible fibers, multicomponent fibers, and microdenier fibers. The fibrous articles include water-dispersible and microdenier nonwoven webs, fabrics, and multilayered articles such as wipes, gauze, tissue, diapers, panty liners, sanitary napkins, bandages, and surgical dressings. Also disclosed is a process for water-dispersible fibers, nonwoven fabrics, and microdenier webs. The fibers and fibrous articles have further applications in flushable personal care and cleaning products, disposable protective outerwear, and laminating binders.
US08262954B2 Method of producing granular substance
A method of producing a granular substance comprising (i) a step of melting a compound of the formula (1): (wherein, R1 and R2 represent each independently a hydrogen atom, alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or cycloalkyl group having 5 to 8 carbon atoms, R3 represents a hydrogen atom or alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms. X represents a single bond, sulfur atom, oxygen atom, alkylidene group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or cycloalkylidene group having 5 to 8 carbon atoms) to obtain the melted substance, and (ii) a step of dropping the melted substance obtained in the step (i) into water and recovering the granular substance.
US08262952B2 Molds for production of ophthalmic devices
A mold assembly for the manufacture of at least one ophthalmic device used in or on the eye is disclosed. The mold assembly includes a mateable pair of mold parts wherein at least one of the mold parts comprises at least an oxygen-absorbing mold material and an oxygen scavenger composition containing (i) an oxygen scavenging polymer comprising a polymer backbone and one or more substituted or unsubstituted cyclic olefinic groups covalently linked to the polymer backbone; and (ii) an oxygen scavenging catalytic amount of a transition metal catalyst.
US08262950B1 Low sintering temperature glass waste forms for sequestering radioactive iodine
Materials and methods of making low-sintering-temperature glass waste forms that sequester radioactive iodine in a strong and durable structure. First, the iodine is captured by an adsorbant, which forms an iodine-loaded material, e.g., AgI, AgI-zeolite, AgI-mordenite, Ag-silica aerogel, ZnI2, CuI, or Bi5O7I. Next, particles of the iodine-loaded material are mixed with powdered frits of low-sintering-temperature glasses (comprising various oxides of Si, B, Bi, Pb, and Zn), and then sintered at a relatively low temperature, ranging from 425° C. to 550° C. The sintering converts the mixed powders into a solid block of a glassy waste form, having low iodine leaching rates. The vitrified glassy waste form can contain as much as 60 wt % AgI. A preferred glass, having a sintering temperature of 500° C. (below the silver iodide sublimation temperature of 500° C.) was identified that contains oxides of boron, bismuth, and zinc, while containing essentially no lead or silicon.
US08262946B2 Color composition for color filter, color filter using the composition and liquid crystal display device
Disclosed is a color composition for a color filter, which includes at least acrylic resin and a coloring agent. The acrylic resin contains a copolymer formed of a first vinyl monomer having a benzyl group and a second vinyl monomer having a carboxyl group, the copolymer having a weight average molecular weight of 3,000 to 11,000, and an acid value of solid matter of the copolymer being confined to 30 to 85.
US08262940B2 Coated conductive powder and conductive adhesive using the same
The present invention provides a coated conductive powder in which the aggregation of conductive particles is suppressed and which is also excellent in electrical reliability, and a conductive adhesive using the same that can provide connection with high electrical reliability even for the connection of the electrodes of miniaturized electronic parts, such as IC chips, and circuit boards. The coated conductive powder of the present invention is a coated conductive powder obtained by coating the surfaces of conductive particles with insulating inorganic fine particles, wherein the volume resistivity value of the coated conductive powder is 1 Ω·cm or less, the specific gravity of the insulating inorganic fine particles is 5.0 g/ml or less, the particle diameter ratio of the insulating inorganic fine particles to the conductive particles (the insulating inorganic fine particles/the conductive particles) is 1/100 or less, and the insulating inorganic fine particles adhere to the surfaces of the conductive particles.
US08262939B2 Thermoplastic nanocomposite resin composite materials
A polymer composite material includes metal (oxide) nanoparticles chemically bonded to a vinyl polymer. Some embodiments may additionally comprise thermoplastic resin through which the nanoparticles and vinyl polymer are dispersed. In some embodiments, the composite materials have improved impact strength, tensile strength, heat resistance, and flexural modulus.
US08262936B2 Phosphor, method for manufacturing the same, and light emitting diode
A phosphor is formed with a glass coating layer on a surface of a phosphor grain to have improved moisture and/or thermal stability. A method for manufacturing the phosphor comprises preparing phosphor gains excitable by light, and forming a glass coating layer on a surface of each phosphor grain. The glass coating layer may be formed by mixing the phosphor grains with a glass composition; heat-treating a mixture of the phosphor grains and the glass composition to make the glass composition melt and surround the phosphor grains; and cooling and breaking the heat-treated mixture to provide phosphors, each comprising the phosphor grain having the glass coating layer formed on a surface of the phosphor grain.
US08262933B2 Thermoplastic resin composition, method for producing the same, and molded article obtained from the same
The present invention provides a thermoplastic resin composition comprising a thermoplastic resin and aggregated particles of fibrous crystals. According to the thermoplastic resin composition, a molded articles which adequately reduce a defect in appearance can be obtained.
US08262926B2 Method of making calcium chloride—aggregate composition
A method of forming a calcium chloride and aggregate composition includes providing a calcium chloride compound, adding an aggregate into the calcium chloride compound, and mixing the aggregate and calcium chloride compound to establish a mixed composition having the aggregate substantially uniformly suspended in the calcium chloride compound. The aggregate may comprise any suitable aggregate material, such as sand, salt or rock salt or the like. The aggregate may be mixed with the calcium chloride when the calcium chloride is in a paste form so as to substantially uniformly mix or blend the aggregate and calcium chloride and to substantially uniformly suspend the aggregate in the calcium chloride paste.
US08262922B2 Plasma confinement rings having reduced polymer deposition characteristics
Plasma confinement ring assemblies are provided that include confinement rings adapted to reach sufficiently high temperatures on plasma-exposed surfaces of the rings to avoid polymer deposition on those surfaces. The plasma confinement rings include thermal chokes adapted to localize heating at selected portions of the rings that include the plasma exposed surfaces. The thermal chokes reduce heat conduction from those portions to other portions of the rings, which causes selected portions of the rings to reach desired temperatures during plasma processing.
US08262918B1 Methods of producing damascene main pole for perpendicular magnetic recording head
Methods of producing magnetic recording heads are disclosed. The methods can include providing a wafer comprising a substrate layer in which are disposed a plurality of damascene trenches. The method can further include depositing a pole material across the whole wafer, wherein the plurality of trenches are filled with the pole material. The methods can further include depositing a mask material over the pole material across the whole wafer. The methods can further include performing a first material removal process across the whole wafer to remove the mask material and a first portion of the pole material at a same material removal rate. The methods can further include performing a second material removal process to remove a second portion of the pole material above the substrate layer.
US08262915B2 Method for removing micro-bubbles and/or particles from liquid, liquid supply apparatus and immersion exposure apparatus
A liquid supply apparatus capable of removing micro-bubbles and particles is described, including a pipe, a laser provider and at least one micro-bubble/particle outlet. The laser provider provides a laser crossing the pipe, wherein the laser is provided in a manner such that a micro-bubble/particle blocking/repelling barrier is formed crossing the pipe blocking or repelling micro-bubbles, particles or both in the liquid in the pipe. The micro-bubble/particle outlet is disposed on the pipe between the barrier and the liquid inlet of the pipe, adjacent to the barrier for discharging micro-bubbles, particles or both.
US08262914B2 Wastewater treatment system
The present invention is a system and method for treating a wastewater stream to produce an effluent having an acceptable level of turbidity. The invention comprises a controller operatively coupled to at least one turbidity meter for monitoring turbidity of the effluent stream. A plurality of chemical treatment additive pumps are provided for providing a plurality of additives to the wastewater stream. Furthermore, a method of sequentially testing the amount of each additive required to produce an effluent stream having an acceptable turbidity is disclosed.
US08262912B1 Isolated bioactive compounds and method of use
Bioactive compounds extracted from a fermentation broth created by a unique microbial community during a fermentation process and fractionated into several fractions based on size. Four of the resulting fractions stimulate growth of plants that are planted in soil to which the fractions have been applied. The fractions can be applied to the soil individually or combined together prior to application. In another embodiment, the unique fractions can be freeze dried or spray dried.
US08262910B2 Residential reverse osmosis system
Some embodiments of the present invention relate to a reverse osmosis (RO) system that includes a housing and a pre-filter within the housing such that feed water flows into the housing and enters the pre-filter. The reverse osmosis (RO) system further includes a membrane element within the housing such that the pre-filtered water flows from the pre-filter and enters the membrane element and permeate exits the membrane element through the housing. In some embodiments, the housing includes a first end cap at one end and a second end cap at an opposing end such that feed water flows through the first end cap into the pre-filter and pre-filtered water flows from the pre-filter into the first end cap. In addition, the pre-filtered water may flow from the first end cap to the membrane element such that permeate exits the membrane element through the first end cap in order to exit the housing.
US08262909B2 Methods and devices for minimizing membrane fouling for microfluidic separators
A fluid separation method for performing fluid analysis of an unfiltered fluid. The fluid separation method includes providing a structure with a fluid analyzer and a power supply. Using a substrate for receiving a fluid flow stream of a multiphase mixture through a fluid sample inlet, wherein the substrate interconnects with the structure. Providing a membrane disposed across the fluid sample inlet for separating a fluid of interest from the multiphase mixture, wherein the fluid flow stream of the multiphase mixture has a shear rate that prevents a fouling of the membrane. Finally, the fluid separation method includes the substrate having fabricated channels, such that the fabricated channels are arranged substantially tangent to the fluid stream downstream of the porous membrane.
US08262907B1 Composite sock filter for aquariums
Disclosed are vertical sock filters for aquarium filter assemblies. The sock filters typically include an annular collar coupled to filter material. The filter material typically is a composite material that includes upper material and lower material, where the upper material typically is more porous than the lower material. The assembly and the annular collar may include respective first and second coacting components that mate or interlock with each other.
US08262906B2 Flow selection device for use with pools and the like
A flow selection device for removal of detritus from a body of water, the device including at least one inlet manifold having a forward face with an opening, at least one outlet located in an upper rear portion of the device and at least one chamber located between the at least one inlet and at least one outlet and defining an annodated flow path between the opening in the forward face and the at least one outlet.
US08262901B2 Adsorbing polynuclear aromatics from a reforming process using adsorbents containing iron
An exemplary embodiment can be a process for removing one or more polynuclear aromatics from at least one reformate stream from a reforming zone. The PNAs may be removed using an adsorption zone. The adsorption zone can include first and second vessels each vessel containing an activated carbon adsorbent. Generally, the process includes passing the at least a portion of an effluent of the reforming zone through the first vessel containing a first activated carbon adsorbent wherein the first activated carbon adsorbent comprises iron.
US08262900B2 Methods and apparatus for measuring analytes using large scale FET arrays
Methods and apparatus relating to very large scale FET arrays for analyte measurements. ChemFET (e.g., ISFET) arrays may be fabricated using conventional CMOS processing techniques based on improved FET pixel and array designs that increase measurement sensitivity and accuracy, and at the same time facilitate significantly small pixel sizes and dense arrays. Improved array control techniques provide for rapid data acquisition from large and dense arrays. Such arrays may be employed to detect a presence and/or concentration changes of various analyte types in a wide variety of chemical and/or biological processes. In one example, chemFET arrays facilitate DNA sequencing techniques based on monitoring changes in hydrogen ion concentration (pH), changes in other analyte concentration, and/or binding events associated with chemical processes relating to DNA synthesis.
US08262897B2 Method for producing aerodynamic structures in the manufacturing of integrally bladed gas turbine rotors
The invention relates to a method for the production of aero-dynamic structures during the production of integrally bladed gas turbine rotors. Aerodynamic structures of an integrally bladed gas turbine rotor are produced on a rotor disk base body, whereon the end contours are precise, by removing material according to an electrochemical removal process, i.e. by means of an electrochemical machining (ECM)-process. The method comprises the following steps: a) preparing a rotor disk base body which is made of a material which is difficult to machine; b) removing the material which is between the blade wings until a specific dimension is obtained, according to a removal process; c) preparing at least one working electrode in order to finish at least one aerodynamic structure of an integrally bladed gas turbine rotor. The contours of the or each of the working electrodes are adapted to the contours of the aerodynamic structure, which are produced by means of the respective working electrode, such that a gap between the rotor disk base body and a working electrode are produced in an approximately identical manner during the removal process of the material; d) electrochemically machining the or each aerodynamic structure in an electrochemical sinking by placing the rotor disk base body and the or each working electrode in an electrolyte and by applying voltage and/or current, whereby the applied current and/or voltage is temporally pulsed; e) pressure-rinsing the gap which is filled with electrolytes between the aero-dynamic structure and the or each working electrode by a pulsed movement of the or each working electrode.
US08262886B2 Apparatus for analyzing characteristics of particulate with dielectrophoresis of particulate by applying angle-modulated wave and method for the same
The present invention provides a method for analyzing characteristics of a particulate, comprising: selecting at least one particulate in a fluid; positioning said selected particulate in the vicinity of a pair of electrodes; applying a programmed voltage signal for generating a spatially inhomogeneous electric field between said pair of electrodes; detecting the movement of the particulate while applying said programmed voltage signal to create a time-series data corresponding to said movement of the particulate; and analyzing the characteristics of said particulate based on said time-series data.
US08262882B2 Methods for passivating a metal substrate and related coated metal substrates
Disclosed are methods for passivating metal substrates, including ferrous substrates, such as cold rolled steel and electrogalvanized steel. The methods comprise the steps of autodepositing copper, silver, a IIIB metal and/or IVB metal onto at least a portion of the substrate, and simultaneously and/or immediately subsequently electrophoretically depositing on the substrate a curable, electrodepositable coating composition; wherein the copper, silver, IIB metal and/or IVB metal and the curable, electrodepositable coating composition are both contained within a single bath composition. The present invention also relates to coated substrates produced by the above methods.
US08262879B2 Devices and methods for determining the length of biopolymers and distances between probes bound thereto
Devices and methods for detecting the length of analytes and/or sequencing analytes are provided in which two or more electrical signals are obtained as an analyte traverses a fluidic channel. Detection of the relative position of probes hybridized to a biopolymer and/or the length of the analyte (e.g., a biopolymer) does not rely on the absolute time between detection events of a given electrical signal to determine a distance associated with the biopolymer. Instead, multiple signals are obtained (e.g., as functions of time) corresponding to a plurality of detector volumes at known locations along a fluidic channel through which the biopolymer passes, and the distances are determined from the multiple signals.
US08262878B2 Controlled activation pH sensor
The present invention pertains to a means of combining and configuring specific hydrophilic and dielectric materials in such a way as to allow an antimony/reference electrode pH sensor to be packaged and stored dry yet become fully hydrated to an activated state after exposure to aqueous liquids. The sensor is packaged and stored dry to maintain component stability and minimize component degradation. When the user removes the sensor from the package and the sensor tip is submerged in a hydration (ion conduction) media or solution, the hydrophilic coating along with the impregnated reference wick, absorb the fluid to create an electrolytic gel inside the reference wick, which activates the pH sensor.
US08262874B2 Biosensor coating composition and methods thereof
The disclosure provides for reagent compositions for biosensors comprising release polymers, methods of making such biosensors and films of reagent compositions comprising release polymers. The reagent compositions comprise a release polymer and an effective analyte detecting amount of an enzyme an enzyme cofactor and a redox compound capable of acting in a biosensor as (i) a redox mediator associated with a working electrode (ii) a redox couple associated with a reference electrode or (iii) the redox mediator associated with the working electrode and the redox couple for the reference electrode.
US08262872B2 Cleansing agent generator and dispenser
Electrochemical apparatus and processes for the point-of-use production of cleansing, sanitizing, and antimicrobial agents, such as sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) or hypochlorous acid (HOCl). The processes may be used to produce NaOCl from seawater, low purity un-softened or NaCl-based salt solutions. HOCl may be produced from HCl solutions and water. NaOCl is produced using a sodium ion conductive ceramic membrane, such as membranes based on NASICON-type materials, in an electrolytic cell. HOCl is produced using an anion conductive membrane in an electrolytic cell. The cleansing, sanitizing, and antimicrobial agent may be generated on demand and used in household, industrial, and water treatment applications.
US08262870B2 Apparatus, methods, and compositions for removing coatings from a metal component
Apparatus and methods for removing coatings from metal components, such as metal components used in aircraft and other aerospace vehicles and the oil industry, as well as aqueous bath compositions. The metal component may be DC coupled with a counter electrode and immersed in an aqueous bath that includes an active oxygen source and a ligand in a composition effective to remove the coating. The aqueous bath may include hydrogen peroxide as the active oxygen source and may be maintained in a specific pH range if the temperature of the aqueous bath is controlled. In an alternative embodiment, the composition of the aqueous bath may include a non-peroxide active oxygen source, such as sodium perborate, and be maintained in a different specific pH range. An oxygen sensor may be provided to periodically monitor the concentration of active oxygen in the aqueous bath.
US08262865B2 Optimizing heavy oil recovery processes using electrostatic desalters
The invention relates to improved bitumen recovery processes and systems. The process may include providing a bitumen froth feed stream, separating the stream in a froth separation unit to produce a diluted bitumen stream, treating the diluted bitumen stream in an electrostatic desalter to produce a treated bitumen stream, and separating the treated bitumen stream into a solvent recycle stream and a bitumen product stream. The system may include a combined AC/DC desalter with a control unit for optimizing the treatment process to produce a product bitumen stream using less solvent and smaller separators than conventional bitumen froth treatment plants and processes.
US08262861B2 Refiner for refining pulp
A refiner plate for forming accepts and exhaust from a pulp material includes a first side and a second side and defines a channel extending between the first side and the second side. The channel is operable to direct at least some of the exhaust and at least some of the accepts away from the first side.
US08262860B2 Paper pulp pre-processor
A pulp pre-processor for the papermaking industry uses pulp fiber analyzers to determine the distribution of fiber parameters, such as length, curl or coarseness from a feed source, such as recycled pulp, and mixes metered portions of pulp from augmenting pulp sources on an as-needed basis to provide a uniform distribution of a particular fiber parameter while maximizing use of recycled pulp.
US08262859B2 Glyoxalated N-vinylamine
The present invention is directed to compositions comprising a cellulose reactive functionalized polyvinylamine first adduct, compositions comprising combinations of the cellulose reactive functionalized polyvinylamine first adduct and cellulose reactive functionalized polyvinylamide second adduct, methods for preparing first adduct and second adduct blends and finally methods of increasing the wet or dry strength of paper by incorporation into the paper furnish or coating a paper or board with said adducts.
US08262855B2 Method for determining the total peroxide content of pulp suspension
A method and an apparatus for determining the total peroxide content of a cellulose pulp suspension in the pulp suspension bleaching stage, wherein the bleaching chemical is peroxide. A sample is taken from the pulp suspension, which sample is measured in a measuring device (25, 25′). Before measuring, the pH of the sample is adjusted and after that the total peroxide content or the perhydroxyl content of the sample is measured, of which measurement the total peroxide content of the sample is determined.
US08262853B2 Methods for pretreatment and processing of biomass
According to one embodiment of the invention, a system for processing biomass includes a water-impermeable bottom liner, a gravel layer supported by the bottom liner, a drain pipe disposed within the gravel layer, a biomass input device operable to deliver biomass over the gravel layer to form a biomass pile, a lime input device operable to deliver lime to the biomass for pretreating the biomass, a distribution pipe elevated above the gravel layer, and a pump operable to circulate water through the biomass pile by delivering water to the distribution pipe and receiving water from the drain pipe after it has traveled through the biomass pile.According to another embodiment, a method for biomass pretreatment with alkali, conducted at ambient pressure for approximately 4-16 weeks at temperatures ranging from approximately 25° C. to 95° C. Biomass may be lignocellulosic biomass and may be rendered suitable for enzymatic digestion or pulp production.
US08262852B2 Method for improving fiber quality and process efficiency in mechanical pulping
This invention provides a composition and method for improving a mechanical pulping process by decreasing freeness and amount of shives, providing energy and chemical savings, and enhancing brightness and mechanical strength of a paper product made from a pulp material in the process. The composition includes formulations, such as surfactants, chelants, hydrotropes, reductive and oxidative pulp modifiers, and pH-controlling chemicals. The method includes selectively introducing these formulations to the pulp material in the mechanical pulping process.
US08262849B2 Apparatus and method for manufacturing fibre mass suspension
A fiber mass suspension is produced by mixing together a fiber material (FM) and water (W) in a pulper (1). The formed fiber mass suspension is divided into an accept fraction and a reject fraction. The reject fraction is supplied continuously to a first secondary pulper (2) for further screening and defibring. The accept fraction formed in the first secondary pulper (2) is supplied continuously for further processing and the reject fraction formed in the first secondary pulper (2) is supplied continuously to a second secondary pulper (3) for further processing. The accept fraction formed in the second secondary pulper (3) is supplied continuously for further processing.
US08262838B2 Fusible completion plug
A fusible completion plug and method for its use includes a cylindrical plug body having a lower portion that includes a fusible element in communication with an electric power supply. The completion plug also includes an elastomeric seal that provides for a temporary seal. A pressure balancing port and equalization valve are provided to relieve the differential pressure across the completion plug as the plug is positioned in place. The pressure equalization valve also includes a fusible element for fusing the valve within the port, thereby preventing a leak path through the plug body. A blind flange may be installed above the completion plug in case the plug fusion fails. The blind flange may be a traditional blind flange or may be a fusible blind flange.
US08262837B2 Bonding method, bonded structure, liquid droplet discharging head, and liquid droplet discharging apparatus
A bonding method includes a first process that includes plasmatizing a first gas including a raw gas containing a siloxane (Si—O) bond at a reduced-pressure atmosphere, substituting the first gas by a second gas mainly including an inert gas, and plasmatizing the second gas to form a first plasma polymerized film on at least a part of a base member so as to obtain a first bonded object including the base member and the plasma polymerized film and a second process that includes preparing a second bonded object that is to be bonded to the first bonded object and pressing the first and the second bonded objects against each other such that a surface of the first plasma polymerized film is closely contacted to a surface of the second bonded object to bond the objects together.
US08262833B2 Use of infrared technology to install and/or repair construction membranes
An apparatus is provided for applying a construction material, the apparatus having construction and an infrared heat emitter for providing infrared heat on the construction material. The construction material can be a roll of roofing material, which can be a roll of modified asphalt/bitumen roofing membrane material. The infrared emitter can be gas powered or electric powered. A method of applying a roofing membrane is also provided, where construction material is heated using infrared heat and applied onto a rooftop or other suitable surface.
US08262831B2 Method for forming a circuit pattern
A method for forming a circuit pattern is disclosed. A circuit pattern that forms an electrically conductive layer (2L) is formed on an insulating resin (11) that forms a first insulating layer (1L). An insulating resin (13) that forms a second insulating layer (3L) is laminated on the insulating resin (11) on which the circuit pattern has been formed. A trench (14) is formed in the laminated insulating resin (13) to expose the circuit pattern. An electroless plating metal (15) is buried by electroless plating in the trench (14) formed.
US08262826B1 Insulation wrap
A method for producing insulation tape. A strip of fabric is provided and a layer of insulation powder material is deposited onto the fabric. The fabric is folded over the insulation powder to form insulation tape that may be wrapped around pipes. The method of folding the fabric includes first bending the fabric into a trough shape that has a bottom portion and lateral upstanding flaps that terminate in lateral edges. The insulation powder may be deposited onto the bottom portion of the trough. The insulation powder is packed onto the bottom portion. Tape with adhesive on both sides is placed on one of the flaps so that when the flaps are folded in overlapping contact over the insulation powder the powder is enclosed and the flaps remain secured to each other. Stitching may be added to further secure the adhered flaps to each other and to the bottom portion.
US08262824B2 Method for manufacturing electret diaphragm
A method for manufacturing electret diaphragms is provided. First, a dielectric film is attached to a frame by an adhesive material and a fastening element grips the peripheral area of the dielectric film on the frame. Afterward, the dielectric film is subjected to a metal sputtering process to form a conductive material layer thereon. Finally, the dielectric film is subjected to a polarizing process thereby forming an electret diaphragm.
US08262822B2 Method for manufacturing a tyre and apparatus for laying a reinforcing element on a forming support
A method for manufacturing a tire for vehicle wheels includes the steps of building a carcass structure, including at least one carcass ply associated with annular anchoring structures, on a forming support, building a belt structure in a radially outer position with respect to the carcass structure and building a tread band in a radially outer position with respect to the belt structure, wherein the at least one carcass ply, the annular anchoring structures and the belt structure each include at least one reinforcing element deposited in a radially outer position with respect to the forming support. The deposition of the at least one reinforcing element includes the steps of setting a first deposition path of the at least one reinforcing element on the forming support based upon a theoretical deposition profile; detecting the deviations between an actual deposition profile and the theoretical profile along the first deposition path, defining, based upon the deviations, an actual deposition path of the at least one reinforcing element on the forming support; and depositing the at least one reinforcing element on the forming support along the actual deposition path.
US08262814B2 Composite article and method
Method, and articles therefrom, for providing a hard, abrasion-resistant, attractive, oxide surface layer of selectable thickness and having an outer appearance within the scale from gray to blackness, to a zirconium titanium alloy article by heating the article in an oxygen containing atmosphere.
US08262813B2 Oxygen-enriched niobium wire
A process for providing a niobium wire and its use for connection to niobium or niobium oxide capacitors. The wire is enriched with oxygen and preferably has oxygen concentrations of about 3,000 to 30,000 μg/g.
US08262810B2 Method for conversion treating surface of magnesium alloy workpiece
A method for conversion treating a surface of a magnesium alloy workpiece includes the steps of degreasing, acid pickling, alkali pickling, and chemical converting. A phosphating solution is used in the step of chemical converting and includes the following solution concentrations: 2.89 gram/liter to 8.67 gram/liter of phosphoric acid, 0.3 gram/liter to 1.0 gram/liter of carbamide, 0.39 gram/liter to 1.56 gram/liter of nitric acid, 6 gram/liter to 30 gram/liter of manganese dihydrogen phosphate, and 0.2 gram/liter to 0.6 gram/liter of tannin.
US08262806B2 Low-pressure sludge removal method and apparatus using coherent jet nozzles
Provided area cleaning apparatus and an associated method of using the disclosed apparatus wherein the apparatus utilizes one or more nozzles configured to provide a coherent stream of one or more cleaning fluids for removing accumulated fine particulate matter, sludge, from surfaces. The nozzles may be sized, arranged and configured to provide coherent streams that maintain the initial stream diameter for a substantial portion of the maximum dimension of the space being cleaned. The apparatus and method are expected to be particularly useful in the cleaning of heat exchangers incorporating a plurality of substantially vertical and narrowly spaced tubes by directing cleansing streams along a plurality of intertube spaces.
US08262803B2 Method and tool for cleaning cavities
A method for cleaning cavities in workpieces, a cleaning device for this purpose and a device for the supply of media to a cleaning device of this type. Supercritical carbon dioxide is introduced into the cavity and the cavity is rinsed. The supercritical carbon dioxide located in the cavity is relieved of pressure after rinsing of the cavity, so that carbon dioxide gas and carbon dioxide snow are formed in the cavity and subsequently driven out of the cavity.
US08262802B2 Method of removing deposits
A method of removing a deposit from a passage extending through a component includes immersing the passage within a liquid, and directing a liquid jet at the passage from a source within the liquid bath and with a sufficient velocity so as to remove at least a portion of the deposit.
US08262801B2 Vacuum processing method
A vacuum processing method using an apparatus including a processing chamber disposed in a vacuum reactor and having plasma formed thereon, a sample stage having a sample placed on the upper plane thereof, and a gas introducing mechanism, wherein the sample stage includes a gas supply port for introducing thermal conductance gas between the sample stage and the sample to be processed. The method includes placing a dummy sample on the sample stage, introducing dust removal gas between the sample stage and the dummy sample, and removing particles attached to the sample stage via the flow of dust removal gas.
US08262800B1 Methods and apparatus for cleaning deposition reactors
Improved methods of removing tungsten film from the interior reactor and reactor component surfaces between tungsten deposition operations are provided. The methods involve increasing the availability of molecular fluorine to remove tungsten from the reactor while maintaining fast removal rates. Certain embodiments involve a multi-stage process including a stage in which atomic fluorine is introduced at a low pressure (e.g., about 8 Torr or less) and a stage in which molecular fluorine is introduced or allowed to form in the chamber at high pressure (e.g., about 8 Torr or higher).
US08262798B2 Shower head, device and method for manufacturing thin films
The present invention herein provides a shower head whose temperature can be controlled in consideration of the film-forming conditions selected and a thin film-manufacturing device which permits the stable and continuous formation of thin films including only a trace amount of particles while reproducing a good film thickness distribution and compositional distribution, and a high film-forming rate and which is excellent in the productivity and the mass-producing ability as well as a method for the preparation of such a film. The shower head is so designed that the shower head structure is incorporated into an upper cap of a film-forming vessel, that a heat-exchange means is disposed in the upper cap to thus control the temperature of the upper cap and to in turn allow heat-exchange to occur at the contact surface between a disk-like shower plate constituting the shower head surface and the upper cap and that the temperature of the shower head can be controlled in consideration of the film-forming conditions selected. A thin film-manufacturing device is equipped with the shower head in its film-forming vessel and a thin film is prepared using the device.
US08262796B2 β-Ga2O3 single crystal growing method, thin-film single crystal growing method, Ga2O3 light-emitting device, and its manufacturing method
A thin-film single crystal growing method includes preparing a substrate, irradiating an excitation beam on a metallic target made of a pure metal or an alloy in a predetermined atmosphere, and combining chemical species including any of atoms, molecules, and ions released from the metallic target by irradiation of the excitation beam with atoms contained in the predetermined atmosphere to form a thin film on the substrate.
US08262787B2 Configuration of contacting zones in vapor liquid contacting apparatuses
Vapor-liquid contacting apparatuses comprising a primary contacting zone and a secondary contacting zone are disclosed. A representative secondary contacting zone is a secondary absorption zone, such as a finishing zone for subsequent contacting of the vapor effluent from the primary contacting zone to further remove impurities and achieve a desired purity of purified gas exiting the secondary absorption zone. The secondary contacting zone is disposed below the primary contacting zone, such that the secondary contacting zone, which must operate efficiently in removing generally trace amounts of remaining impurities, is more protected from movement than the more elevated, primary or initial contacting stages for bulk impurity removal. The apparatuses are therefore especially beneficial in offshore applications where they are subjected to rocking.
US08262785B2 Hydrocarbon adsorption trap for an engine air intake tract
A hydrocarbon adsorption trap for adsorption of evaporated fuel vapors includes a first fuel vapor permeable media retention layer, a second media retention layer positioned in a spaced parallel relationship to the first layer forming a gap therebetween and a hydrocarbon vapor adsorbent media disposed in the gap between the first and second layers for adsorbing evaporated fuel vapors from the intake tract when the engine is not operating. A mounting member is secured to peripheral edge portions of the layers and closes the gap between the layers while providing a means of securing the trap into an air intake tract.
US08262784B2 Regenerative adsorption gas dryer
A regenerative adsorption gas dryer has a wet gas inlet, first and second drying towers, and a dried gas outlet. The inlet, towers and outlet are arranged such that, in use, a flow of purge gas regenerates an off-stream one of the towers, while a stream of wet gas from the wet gas inlet enters an on-stream one of the towers to exit that tower as a stream of dried gas which then continues to the dried gas outlet. The roles of the off-stream and on-stream towers are reversible. The dryer further has a first check valve for controlling a stream of dried gas between the first drying tower and the dried gas outlet, and a second check valve for controlling a stream of dried gas between the second drying tower and the dried gas outlet.
US08262783B2 Gas separation device
A gas separation device is disclosed. In particular, seal assemblies and adsorbent element constructions for a gas separation device such as a pressure swing adsorption device are disclosed. The seal assembly can be part of a rotary valve and can include a seal backer and a floating seal positioned within a bore in the seal backer. The floating seal is configured to press towards and seal against an adjacent rotor. Valve action is provided as apertures in the floating seal and rotor are brought into and then out of alignment as a result of relative rotation therebetween. The seal assembly can include two types of gas chambers to apply balanced sealing pressures over the sealing surface of the valve, one type configured to receive pressurized process gas from within the device and the other configured to receive gas from an independently controlled pressurized gas source. The adsorber elements in the device may comprise improved spacer cross support structures at the ends of wound laminate adsorbent structures.
US08262781B2 Fungi preventing method, flying organism removing apparatus and plant protecting apparatus by adsorption of conidia using dielectric polarization
A method is provided which can efficiently remove conidia and microbe or the like of a phytopathogen from air and does not cause generation of ozone originated from discharge or so, thereby preventing occurrence of a plant disease without damaging a plant. There are also provided a flying organism removing apparatus and a plant protecting apparatus which can adequately capture flyable organisms, such as spores of a phytopathogen and/or small vermin, by applying an electrostatic field to the flyable organisms. An electrostatic field generated by dielectric polarization is applied to flyable organisms.
US08262777B2 Method for enhancing a gas liquid contactor
The invention relates to a gas liquid contactor and effluent cleaning system and method and more particularly to an array of nozzles configured to produce uniformly spaced flat liquid jets with reduced linear stability. An embodiment of the invention is directed towards a stability unit used with nozzles of a gas liquid contactor and/or an enhancer for stable jet formation, and more particularly to reducing the stability of liquid jets formed from nozzles of the gas liquid contactor. Another aspect of the invention relates to operating the apparatus at a condition that reduces the stability of liquid jets, e.g., a droplet generator apparatus. Yet another aspect of the invention relates to operation of the apparatus with an aqueous slurry. Still another aspect of the invention is directed towards to an apparatus for substantially separating at least two fluids.
US08262768B2 Method to improve recovery of gold from double refractory gold ores
The present invention is directed to a precious metal recovery process in which carbonaceous material, such as preg robbing carbon, is floated after sulfide oxidation to separate the carbonaceous material from the precious metal.
US08262767B2 Method of producing steel for steel pipe excellent in sour-resistance performance
A method of producing steel for a steel pipe excellent in sour-resistance performance comprises controlling the amount of Ca addition charged into a molten steel in a ladle according to a N content in the molten steel prior to Ca addition. Non-metallic inclusions in the steel are mainly composed of Ca, Al, 0 and S, and a CaO content in the inclusions is in the range of 30 to 80%, the ratio of the N content in the steel to the CaO content in the inclusions satisfying equation (1), and a CaS content in the inclusions satisfies equation (2), 0.28≦[N]/(% CaO)≦2.0  (1) (% CaS)≦25%  (2) where [N] represents the mass content (ppm) of N in the steel, (% CaO) represents the mass content (%) of CaO in the inclusions, and (% CaS) represents the mass content (%) of CaS in the inclusions.
US08262766B2 Method for reducing chromium containing raw material
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for reducing a chromium-containing material at a high chromium reduction degree. In the method of the present invention, a mixture of a feedstock containing chromium oxide and a carbonaceous reductant is heated and reduced by radiation heating in a moving hearth furnace. The average rate of raising the temperature of the mixture in the reduction is preferably 13.96° C./s or higher in the period from the initiation of the radiation heating of the mixture until the mixture reaches 1,114° C.
US08262763B2 Bagless dustcup
A vacuum cleaner having a housing, a suction fan, a dustcup, a cover and an inlet into the dustcup. The dustcup is removably secured to the housing, and includes a cup end wall, a sidewall extending from the cup end wall, and an open end opposite the cup end wall. The cover can be connected to the open end of the dustcup, and includes an air outlet in fluid communication with the suction fan, and a filter covering the air outlet and extending from the cover towards the cup end wall. The cup end wall includes a barrier positioned to be contacted by air flowing through the dustcup to thereby separate dirt particles from the air.
US08262755B2 Staged membrane oxidation reactor system
Ion transport membrane oxidation system comprising (a) two or more membrane oxidation stages, each stage comprising a reactant zone, an oxidant zone, one or more ion transport membranes separating the reactant zone from the oxidant zone, a reactant gas inlet region, a reactant gas outlet region, an oxidant gas inlet region, and an oxidant gas outlet region; (b) an interstage reactant gas flow path disposed between each pair of membrane oxidation stages and adapted to place the reactant gas outlet region of a first stage of the pair in flow communication with the reactant gas inlet region of a second stage of the pair; and (c) one or more reactant interstage feed gas lines, each line being in flow communication with any interstage reactant gas flow path or with the reactant zone of any membrane oxidation stage receiving interstage reactant gas.
US08262754B2 Catalyst structure for a rapid reaction
A compact catalytic reactor (20) comprises a channel for a rapid reaction having an inlet (26) for a gas mixture to undergo the reaction. The channel is provided with two different catalyst structures (32, 34), a first catalyst structure (32) in the vicinity of the inlet (26) and a second catalyst structure (34) further from the inlet, such that a gas mixture supplied to the inlet flows past them both. The first catalyst structure (32) has little catalytic activity for the rapid reaction, whereas the second catalyst structure (34) has catalytic activity for the rapid reaction. This is applicable to combustion of gas mixtures containing hydrogen, for which the first catalyst structure (32) may comprise uncoated oxidized aluminum-containing ferritic steel, while the second catalyst structure (34) may incorporate Pt and/or Pd in an alumina support. Exhaust gases may also be recycled to the inlet (26) to inhibit combustion.
US08262751B2 Development of a techno-economic process for organo refining of coal
An improved organo-refining process to produce low ash clean coal from high ash coal, comprising: mixing coal, solvent and a co-solvent to produce a slurry; feeding the slurry to a reactor by pumping; extracting a coal-solvent mixture from the reactor; feeding the extracted mixture to a flasher unit; recovering about 30% of the solvent from the flashing unit; feeding the remaining heavy material to an evaporator; extracting about 60% of solvent from the evaporator; discharging the residue from the evaporator to a precipitator having water which produces a coal slurry; filtering the slurry in a rotary drum; collecting the super clean coal as a residue and feeding the filtrate into a distillation unit; and separating the water and the organic material in the filtrate to recover at least 7 to 8% of the remaining solvent.
US08262750B2 Method for producing polyolefinic amines and compositions containing same
Polyolefinic amines may be produced in a reaction comprising contacting an olefin or a polyolefin with an azo compound under free radical conditions to form a polyolefinic nitrile having an average molecular weight of at least 250, followed by reducing the polyolefinic nitrile to a corresponding polyolefinic amine. The polyolefinic amines produced by the reaction may be included as a detergent in compositions, such as fuel compositions, additive compositions, and/or carrier compositions.
US08262748B2 Method for manufacturing an emulsified fuel
A method for manufacturing an emulsifier package is disclosed. The method comprises blending a flow of fuel soluble product, a flow of stabilizer, and a flow of water in a mixing vessel to form a mixture. Mixing the mixture in the mixing vessel and recirculating the mixture through the mixing vessel. Lastly, shearing the mixture with a shearing device at a rate of about 27,500 shears per second to about 87,500 shears per second. A method for manufacturing an aqueous fuel emulsion is also disclosed.
US08262745B2 Capacitor with sacrificial lead wire configuration and improved manufacturing method thereof
The capacitor has a monolithic anode and at least one anode lead wire extending from the anode. At least one sacrificial lead wire extends from the anode. A dielectric layer is on said anode and a cathode layer is on the dielectric layer. The anode lead wire is in electrical contact with the anode and a cathode lead is in electrical contact with the cathode.
US08262744B2 Optical brighteners and compositions comprising the same
Novel compounds based on diaminostilbene are provided. The compounds conform to the general structures The compounds are useful as optical brighteners. Compositions, such as laundry compositions, containing such compounds are also provided.
US08262743B2 Optical brighteners and compositions comprising the same
Novel compounds based on distyryl-biphenyl are provided. The compounds conform to the general structure The compounds are useful as optical brighteners. Compositions, such as laundry care compositions, containing such compounds are also provided.
US08262741B2 Non-aqueous washing apparatus and method
Methods and apparatuses for washing fabric loads without water or using water only as a co-solvent are disclosed. One method of non-aqueous clothes washing includes the steps of disposing clothing in a wash container, delivering a wash liquor to the fabric load, the wash liquor comprising a substantially non-reactive, non-aqueous, non-oleophilic, apolar working fluid and at least one washing additive, applying mechanical energy to the clothing and wash liquor for a sufficient amount of time to provide fabric cleaning and, thereafter, substantially removing the wash liquor from the fabric load. The working fluid may be selected from the group consisting of perfluorocarbons, hydrofluoroethers, fluorinated hydrocarbons and fluoroinerts.
US08262737B2 Composite interbody spinal implant having openings of predetermined size and shape
An interbody spinal implant including a body having a top surface, a bottom surface, opposing lateral sides, opposing anterior and posterior portions, a substantially hollow center, and a single vertical aperture. The single vertical aperture extends from the top surface to the bottom surface, has a size and shape predetermined to maximize the surface area of the top surface and the bottom surface available proximate the anterior and posterior portions while maximizing both radiographic visualization and access to the substantially hollow center, and defines a transverse rim. The body may be non-metallic and may form one component of a composite implant; the other component is a metal plate disposed on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces of the body.
US08262734B2 Stackable intervertebral devices and methods of use
An intervertebral device for spacing apart vertebral members comprises a plurality of stackable shims including at least a first shim and a second shim. The first shim includes a first body with a first portion of a male-female connector, and a removable guide that is affixed to the first body and extends along at least a portion of the first body. The second shim includes a second body with a second portion of the male-female connector. A longitudinal passage extends through the second body and is sized to receive the guide on the first body. The second shim is moveable relative to the first shim with the guide disposed in the passage between a disengaged position and an engaged position. In the engaged position, the first shim is stacked on the second shim.
US08262729B2 Dynamic ossicular prosthesis
An ossicular replacement prosthesis includes first and second engagement structures for engaging middle ear structures, a spring that biases the first and second engagement structures longitudinally apart when under compression, and a rod that axially stabilizes longitudinal movement of the first and second engagement structures and conducts sound waves between the first and second engagement structures. Relative axial pressure on the first and second engagement structures causes compression or expansion of the spring which results in movement of the rod to adjust the length of the prosthesis to accommodate changes in anatomical distance as occurs under changes in pressure or abnormal middle ear conditions.
US08262725B2 Transvalvular intraannular band for valve repair
Mitral valve prolapse and mitral regurgitation can be treating by implanting in the mitral annulus a transvalvular intraannular band having an elongate and arcuate body. The elongate and arcuate body has a first end, a first anchoring portion located proximate the first end, a second end, a second anchoring portion located proximate the second end, and a central portion. The central portion is displaced from the plane containing the first end and the second end. The transvalvular band is positioned so that it extends transversely across a coaptive edge formed by the closure of the mitral valve leaflets and the central portion is displaced towards the left ventricle relative to the first anchoring portion and the second anchoring portion. The ventricular direction displacement moves coaption to an earlier point in the cardiac cycle.
US08262719B2 Braided flange branch graft for branch vessel
A braided flange branch graft formed of a braided super elastic memory material includes a neck between an inner flange and an outer flange. The neck is positioned in a side opening in a sidewall of a main stent graft and the inner flange and outer flange are deployed on opposite sides of the sidewall. The inner flange and the outer flange have a diameter greater than a diameter of the side opening in the sidewall of the main stent graft. Thus, the sidewall of the main stent graft is sandwiched between the inner flange and the outer flange securely and simply mounting the braided flange branch graft to the main stent graft. The braided flange has a substantially unobstructed fluid communication passage therethrough. Further, when stretched into a substantially cylindrical shape for delivery, the braided flange branch graft has a small delivery profile and is extremely flexible.
US08262712B2 Phalangeal arthrodesis implant, surgical kit and method for manufacturing same
A medical implant interposable between a first bone and a second bone in order to support the first and second bones substantially joined one to the other, so as to obtain bony fusion of the first and second bones. Also disclosed is a surgical kit comprising an implant and a surgical instrument for bony preparation. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing a medical implant.
US08262711B2 Dynamic vertebral column plate system
A vertebral column construct for stabilizing a segment of a vertebral column can include first and second plate segments, and a spring connected between adjacent plate segments. The spring can be adapted and configured to provide a predetermined preload between the first and second plate segments. Such a preload can advantageously enhance fusion across a bone graft. Alternatively, the spring can be adapted and configured to resist, by a predetermined degree, loading between the first and second plate segments. A cam can be provided on one of the first and second plate segments, wherein engagement between the cam and the cam surface prevents dynamic connection between the first and second plates. The cam can be adapted and configured to adjust a preload applied between segments, such as by adjusting tension in the spring.
US08262707B2 Periarticular bone plate with biplanar offset head member
A periarticular bone plate for the internal fixation of a fractured, proximal tibia of a surgical patient includes a shaft member connected to a head member, a top surface, a bottom surface, a posterior edge, an anterior edge and a plurality of holes extending between the top and bottom surfaces for receiving fasteners for attaching the plate to the bone. The head member is offset relative to the shaft member in each of a frontal and sagittal planes of the proximal tibia.
US08262697B2 Modular interspinous fixation system and method
A modular interspinous fixation system and method are shown. The system and method comprise a first plate, a second plate and a locking cross bar for locking the first and second plates together and into locked engagement with a first spinous process and a second spinous process. A bridge is mounted or received on the locking cross bar so that it becomes locked onto the locking cross bar when the locking cross bar is in locked engagement. The bridge and locking cross bar are adapted so that the bridge does not rotate about its axis while on the locking cross bar. Various other embodiments are shown illustrating various bridges of different shapes and sizes, integral and non-integral locking cross bars and even a ramped locking cross bar for facilitating preventing separation of the first and second plates after they are mounted to the first and second spinous processes.
US08262694B2 Devices, systems, and methods for closure of cardiac openings
The invention generally relates to devices, systems, and methods for percutaneous closure of cardiac openings and obliteration of the cardiac cul-de-sacs. In one embodiment, a closure device includes a patch with an adhesive and/or a removable frame. The patch may be placed across a cardiac opening, such as a patent foramen ovale, or across a cardiac cul-de-sac, such as a left atrial appendage. In another embodiment, a closure device includes a balloon together with adhesives and/or substances for stimulating tissue growth coated on, or contained within, the balloon. The balloon may be inserted into a cardiac opening, such as the patent foramen ovale, or into a cardiac cul-de-sac, such as a left atrial appendage.
US08262680B2 Anastomotic device
An apparatus and system for forming a compression anastomosis. The apparatus includes an anastomotic device with an anastomotic portion including a first end and a second end. The anastomotic portion is formed of a ferrous, magnetic, or paramagnetic material. At least one flexible portion protrudes from the first end of the anastomotic portion. The at least one flexible portion includes an articulation node located at a predetermined distance from the first end of the anastomotic portion. The articulation node enables the at least one flexible portion to move relative to the anastomotic portion. The system further includes a magnet having a first end and a second end. The magnet is adapted to magnetically couple to the anastomotic portion of the anastomotic device and to compress tissue between the magnet and the anastomotic device. The compressive force on the tissue is sufficient to create a compression anastomosis through the tissue.
US08262675B2 Methods and devices for applying multiple suture anchors
Methods and devices are provided for deploying and applying multiple suture anchors. In one embodiment, a surgical device is provided having a shaft configured to be introduced into a body, e.g., through a scoping device, and to deliver a plurality of suture anchors, each having a suture attached thereto, into tissue, preferably without the need to remove the shaft from the body. The shaft can be configured to penetrate tissue and to deploy one or more of the suture anchors through the tissue such that the sutures extending from the deployed suture anchors extend through the tissue to allow the anchors to engage the tissue. The surgical device can also include a knotting mechanism configured to secure the sutures attached to the deployed anchors, thereby securing the anchors to the tissue.
US08262671B2 Vascular introducer having hemostatic valve with integral seal
A vascular introducer includes a proximal hub portion with an interior bore, an elongated sheath extending distally from the hub portion, with a lumen in communication with the interior bore of the hub portion, and a hemostatic valve disposed within the bore of the hub portion. The hemostatic valve has a passage extending therethrough, and includes a sealing flap movable between an open position relative to the passage and a closed position relative to the passage.
US08262670B2 Self-retaining surgical driver
A surgical tool includes a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The surgical tool has a fastener engagement tip having a spring extension extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the surgical tool. The spring extension is resiliently flexible and deflectable between a first arrangement, in which the spring extension is in a relaxed state, and a second arrangement, in which the spring extension is deflected to facilitate insertion of the fastener engagement tip into a fastener slot.
US08262668B2 Hip file carrier with a movable jaw
File carrier which is intended to carry a file for filing bone of the medullary canal of the femur; a fixed jaw and a movable jaw are arranged at the distal end of the intermediate portion and there are provided means which are intended to control the movement of the movable jaw relative to the fixed jaw between a closed state in which the file is fixed in position on the file carrier and an open state in which the file is released from the file carrier; the position of the movable jaw in the open state is displaced in the mediolateral direction relative to the position of the movable jaw in the closed state.
US08262662B2 Break-off screw extensions
The present invention provides minimally invasive devices and methods for delivering a spinal connector to one or more spinal anchor sites in a patient's spinal column. In one embodiment, a spinal implant and access device is provided that includes a U-shaped receiver member, a bone-engaging member, and an extension member. The U-shaped receiver member can have a recess formed therein that is adapted to seat a spinal connector. The bone-engaging member can extend distally from the receiver member and it can be adapted to engage bone to thereby mate the receiver member to bone. The extension member can extend proximally from the receiver member and it can include a frangible portion formed thereon that is adapted to break when a predetermined force is applied thereto thereby allowing at least a portion of the extension member to be separated from the receiver member.
US08262657B2 External fixation apparatus with adjustable pin clamping means and convergent bone pins
An external fixation device for holding bone fragments in place includes a housing having a number of rotationally adjustable pin holders, each of which is held by a clamping member that simultaneously clamps the pin holder within an internal mounting surface of the housing and a bone pin within the pin holder. A first embodiment includes a number of internal mounting surfaces, each of which can include a single pin holder. A second embodiment includes one or two internal mounting surfaces, each of which holds a row of pin holders that is clamped in place by a single clamping member. Other embodiments include pin holders arranged so that bone pins, extending from a linearly extending or arcuate surface are concentrated in a region.
US08262652B2 Imaginary impedance process monitoring and intelligent shut-off
An electrosurgical generator for supplying electrosurgical energy to tissue is disclosed. The generator includes sensor circuitry configured to measure an imaginary impedance and/or a rate of change of the imaginary impedance of tissue. The generator also includes a controller configured to regulate output of the electrosurgical generator based on the measured imaginary impedance and/or the rate of change of the imaginary impedance.
US08262649B2 Method and apparatus for tissue ablation
A method for ablation in which a portion of atrial tissue around the pulmonary veins of the heart is ablated by a first elongated ablation component and a second elongated ablation component movable relative to the first ablation component and having means for magnetically attracting the first and second components toward one another. The magnetic means draw the first and second components toward one another to compress the atrial tissue therebetween, along the length of the first and second components and thereby position the device for ablation of the tissue.
US08262648B2 Control method and structure of laser beam irradiation by using a contact sensor
The present invention relates to a laser beam control structure and method. A laser beam control structure of the present invention comprises a handpiece for irradiating laser beams output from a laser beam output device, on a predetermined part; at least one electrode unit positioned at a human body contact portion of the handpiece and receiving hum noise generated from a human body; and a control unit electrically connected to the electrode unit so as to measure the hum noise applied from the electrode unit and to cause the laser beams to be irradiated according to the measured hum noise. According to the present invention, there are advantages in that various types of hum noise generated from a human body are measured without applying an electric current to the human body, and a laser beam is irradiated according to the measured hum noise.
US08262647B2 Optical system for ophthalmic surgical laser
A laser system for ophthalmic surgery includes a laser source, to generate a pulsed laser beam, an XY scanner, to receive the pulsed laser beam, and to output an XY-scanning beam, scanned in two directions transverse to a Z axis, a Z scanner, to receive the XY-scanning beam, and to output an XYZ-scanning beam, scanned in addition along the Z axis, the Z scanner including a first lens group to output a beam having an intermediate focal plane, and a movable lens group to receive the beam through the intermediate focal plane and to collimate the beam in a variable manner, and an objective to receive the collimated beam from the Z scanner and to focus the beam into a focal spot in a target region.
US08262641B2 Filling system and method for syringes with short needles
A filling system for syringes utilizing short needles to be filled from a vial having a thick septum is described. The system may be useful in any situation where the septum or vial stopper of a medication container is thicker than the usable length of the needle on the delivery device. Preferably, the syringe is filled just prior to use. The short needle includes an optional limiter which only permits a certain predetermined length of the needle cannula to protrude beyond the limiter a distance which limits penetration of the needle tip into both the skin and a vial stopper. The system and adapter may be useful for needles having a protrusion distance from approximately 0.5 mm to 3 mm, or any needle with a protrusion length shorter that the thickness of a septum to be accessed. Furthermore, a device is provided with shielding capabilities to shield the needle of the device.
US08262640B2 Biological fluid filtration system utilizing by-pass line and tube support device
An improved biological fluid filtration system is shown having, seriatim, a blood container, a biological fluid filtration device downstream of the blood container, and a blood receiving container downstream of the biological fluid filtration device; a bypass line is provided to allow fluid communication between the blood container and the blood receiving container, the bypass line includes a loop, the loop of the bypass line being configured to be disposed above the blood container at a sufficient height to prevent the passage of fluid around the leukocyte depletion device; the loop of the bypass line being disposed in a tube support device, the tube support device being configured to support substantially the entire weight of the biological fluid filtration system without substantially crimping said bypass line.
US08262634B1 Absorbent article having barrier sheet against the migration of the skin care composition
An absorbent article having a barrier sheet against a skin care composition is disclosed. The absorbent article has a body surface and a garment surface. The absorbent article comprises an absorbent core. At least a portion of the absorbent article has a skin care composition provided thereon. The absorbent article has a barrier sheet. The barrier sheet is treated to reduce the migration of the skin care composition therethrough.
US08262625B1 Introducer sheath having a hemostasis valve with an adhesive means for attachment to the skin
An introducer sheath for placement of a tubular shaft into the vascular system of a human subject. The introducer sheath has a tubular shaft, a side arm, and a hemostasis valve placed at a proximal portion of the introducer sheath. The hemostasis valve has an adhesive pad formed integral with the shell of the hemostasis valve. The adhesive pad is designed to attach and detach a proximal section of the introducer sheath to and from the skin of the human subject.
US08262624B2 Anchor and anchor deployment apparatus
An anchor for maintaining a portion of a therapy delivery element within a desired location of a patient has (i) a first opening, (ii) a second opening, (iii) a body member formed of elastic material disposed between the first and second opening, (iv) and a lumen extending though the body member from the first opening to the second opening, and (v) a retention element secured to or integrally formed with the body member for retaining the anchor within a tissue location of a patient. The therapy delivery element has an outer diameter and an outer surface about which the anchor is disposable. The body member has a first inner diameter defined by the lumen in a relaxed state and a second inner diameter defined by the lumen in a radially stretched state. The first inner diameter is smaller than the outer diameter of the therapy delivery element, which is smaller that the second inner diameter. The lumen is configured to be disposed about at least a portion of the therapy delivery element. Radially compressive forces, due to the elastic material of the body member, contribute to retaining the anchor relative to the therapy delivery element.
US08262617B2 Medical infusion pump with power source voltage logging and method for logging a power source voltage in a medical infusion pump
A medical infusion pump and a method for logging a power source voltage of a medical infusion pump are disclosed. The medical pump may include a power source, a processor, and a voltage supervisor which responds if a voltage (VDD) drops to a response voltage level which is above a reset voltage level of the processor. When the voltage supervisor responds, the processor start logging the voltage (Vbat) of the power source in a memory, thus generating a voltage log. The memory maintains the logged data when the power supply by the power source is interrupted, thus enabling retrospective analysis of the voltage log.
US08262604B2 Single-use injector with at least one draw hook
A single-use injector is disclosed comprising a housing (10), arranged in which are at least one mechanical spring energy store (50), at least one piston-cylinder unit (100), which can be effectively filled at least for a certain time, at least one piston-actuating ram (60) and at least one triggering unit (80). The spring energy store comprises at least one pre-tensioned spring element. The spring-loaded piston-actuating ram (60) has at least one retaining rod or hook (62), which can be moved transversely, at least in certain regions, and by means of a supporting portion supports the tensioned spring energy store on at least one resting surface of the housing. When actuation occurs, the triggering unit (80) releases the supporting portion to allow it to move away from the resting surface.
US08262601B2 Helmet trauma bandage and method
An emergency helmet trauma bandage and method of use, which, when applied, applies minimal pressure to stop bleeding, doesn't compromise cervical spine immobilization, allows for fast and effective application of ice/cold packs to control intracranial/internal swelling, doesn't come apart during treatment and transport, and doesn't require a caregiver to re-wrap the dressing.
US08262596B2 Cervical collar
The present invention discloses a novel cervical collar for maintaining the airways in head and neck immobilized trauma patient open. This collar comprises a rigid motion-restricting frame (220, 230, 240, 270, 280) attached to the head (100); and, a jaw clasp (210, 290) attached to the jaw (110). The collar is simultaneously restricting the motion of the head (100) and neck while allowing motion of the jaw (110) to maintain open airways. A jaw clasp (290) useful for performing the jaw-thrust maneuver motion of the jaw (110) to maintain open airways is also presented. Said device comprising a plurality of movable fitting elements adapted to fit the jaw (110) tightly; and, a plurality of movable mover elements adapted to move the jaw (110).
US08262593B2 Method and apparatus for relieving leg cramps and massaging muscles
Removably attached leg cramp relieving and muscle massaging elements with a variable length handle. A non-pinching foot supporting loop combined with the handle permits a user to stretch a leg to alleviate leg cramps. Muscle massaging elements combined with the handle permit a user to massage various areas of the body. The massage elements can also be used as a foot and leg exercising and blood circulation devices.
US08262592B1 Fluid dispenser
An inexpensive and disposable dispenser has few parts. The dispenser has a housing with a reservoir of fluid therein. The housing has a valve seat and a valve. The valve is biased in a closed position by resilient spring arms. Each spring arm has a fixed end coupled to the housing and a free end that contacts a rounded or inclined surface of the valve in a location that is offset from a centerline of movement. As the valve moves to an open position, the spring arms flex with the free ends moving apart. When the spring arms straighten and the free ends move closer to each other, the valve is moved to the closed position. The dispenser can be manipulated by a hand or by a massager. A massager imparts vibrations to the valve by way of the housing and the spring arm. The dispenser can be used to work the fluid into an object such as human skin.
US08262586B2 Large sample low aspect ratio biopsy needle
A high aspect ratio biopsy needle achieves reliable performance with large solid sample size by means of a variety of features and combinations thereof, including support to prevent bending, reinforcement of the needle, and cutting edges arranged to resist deformation.
US08262576B2 Imaging probe
An imaging probe is suitable to be inserted into a tubular object so as to detect an interior image of the tubular object. The imaging probe includes a light source excitation assembly, an ultrasonic transducer and a receiver. The light source excitation assembly includes a pulsed laser, a first optical fiber and a cone-shaped reflecting member. The pulsed laser is suitable to generate a pulsed light energy. The cone-shaped reflecting member is suitable to reflect the pulsed light energy to let the pulsed light energy annularly irradiate the inner wall of the tubular object so as to produce a photoacoustic signal. The ultrasonic transducer is suitable to generate an ultrasonic signal. The ultrasonic signal annularly irradiates the inner wall of the tubular object so as to produce an ultrasonic echo signal. The receiver receives the photoacoustic signal and the ultrasonic echo signal.
US08262575B2 Method and system for detecting electrophysiological changes in pre-cancerous and cancerous tissue
Methods and systems are provided for determining a condition of a selected region of epithelial tissue and/or an organ in a body as well as to diagnose disease, susceptibility, premalignancy or cancer and to measure response to therapy, introduction of a drug and to assess the margins of a tumor or resection. The methods utilize through the tissue or organ electrical measurements with alternating current applied using one or more surface or internal electrodes and measuring the electrical response using one or more surface electrodes, preferably in combination with one or more electrodes in direct or indirect contact with epithelium comprising the organ or tissue under test. The methods are also useful in combination with DC measurements on the surface of the organ or tissue under test. Measurement of impedance, admittance, electropotential and dielectric properties is particularly useful, particularly as a function of frequency and position on and in the tissue or organ.
US08262574B2 Needle and tine deployment mechanism
A needle electrode deployment shaft includes a central member and a plurality of needle electrodes. The central member has a plurality of needle advancement channels formed therein. The needle electrodes are disposed within the advancement channels and each advancement channel terminates in a ramp portion which deflects the needles radially outwardly as they are axially advanced. The ramps may be spirally or acutely configured in order to increase the distance through which the needles may be bent as they are axially advanced. Additionally, the central member may have a radially reduced distal tip in order to decrease tissue insertion forces.
US08262572B2 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and image processing apparatus for ultrasonic diagnosis
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus including means that acquires a three-dimensional ultrasonic signal of an internal organ of an examinee, means that sets a direction of a two-dimensional standard cross-section of the internal organ; means that adjusts display parameter of an image of a site which an examinee intends to observe, means that generates a two-dimensional standard cross-sectional image from the three-dimensional ultrasonic signal on the basis of the set direction of the two-dimensional standard cross-section of the internal organ, means that generates an observation cross-sectional image and a rendering image from the three-dimensional ultrasonic signal on the basis of the display parameters of the adjusted image, and display means that combines and displays the two-dimensional standard cross-sectional image, the observation cross-sectional image and the rendering image.
US08262571B2 Intermuscular guide for retractor insertion and method of use
A guide is provided for insertion into a surgical incision to create interior access along a preferred plane to an interior surgical site. After inserting the guide into an incision, a retractor or other tool may be inserted though the guide to the interior surgical site. The guide serves as a pathway for the retractor to the interior surgical site of the patient.
US08262567B2 Tissue retractor, tissue retractor kit and method of use thereof
A tissue retractor for retracting tissue opened by an incision, the tissue retractor including a base support unit having a topside and an underside. The topside has at least one securing mechanism and the underside is conformable and removably attachable to a surface proximate to the incision. The tissue retractor has a tissue hook having a tissue engagement portion and a mounting portion, the tissue engagement portion capable of engaging at least the periphery of the incision. The tissue retractor has a retractable member substantially inelastic in its central longitudinal axis and bendable in any axes deviating from the central longitudinal axis. The retractable member receives the mounting portion of the tissue hook, the retractable member being removably attachable to said securing mechanism on the topside of the base support unit, and being retractable away from the incision, such that the tissue engagement portion retracts tissue engaged thereto.
US08262564B2 Power transmission apparatus for electric bending endoscope
A power transmission apparatus for an electric bending endoscope includes an actuating member switchable between a connection position to bring a clutch mechanism into a connection state and a release position to bring the clutch mechanism into a release state, the actuating member being interlocked with the clutch mechanism, an electric drive mechanism being interlocked with the actuating member, and a manual drive mechanism including an operation member manually switchable to at least one of a connection drive position to bring the actuating member into the connection position and a release drive position to bring the actuating member into the release position, and a selective actuation transmission mechanism provided between the operation member and the actuating member and to transmit the actuation of the operation member to the actuating member and absorb the actuation of the actuating member without transmitting the actuation to the operation member.
US08262557B2 Method and apparatus for levator distension repair
Improved methods and apparatuses for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse are provided. A specialized mesh having a shape for convenient subcutaneous placement to support the levator ani muscles is provided, as is a method of use of such a device. Appropriate devices for introducing such a mesh implant are also disclosed.
US08262553B2 Ophthalmic surgical console system
A ophthalmic surgical console system reduces kinking or flow restrictions in the tubing/cables attached to a ophthalmic surgical console by rotatably mounting the head of the surgical console to the base of the surgical console. The screen on which surgical parameter outputs are displayed and control inputs are made is attached to the ophthalmic surgical console using a movable adjustable arm.
US08262551B2 Centrifuge having displacement sensor
According to an aspect of the invention, a centrifuge includes: a rotor for separating samples; a motor for driving and rotating the rotor; a drive shaft for connecting together the motor and the rotor; a rotation sensor for detecting at least one of the rotation speed of the motor and the rotor; and a displacement sensor for detecting the swinging motion of the rotor or the drive shaft, wherein, after one of speed of the motor and the rotor is accelerated up to previously set rotation speed, when the swinging amount of the rotor or the drive shaft is equal to or more than preset allowable value, the supply of power to the motor is stopped to decelerate the motor, wherein, during the deceleration, signal from the displacement sensor is compared with the preset allowable value, and wherein when the signal from the displacement sensor becomes equal to or less than the preset allowable value, the motor is accelerated.
US08262543B1 Leg exercise machine with multi exercise capability
A leg exercise machine comprises a user support assembly pivotally attached to a sub frame that is linearly attached to a main support frame. The sub frame linearly travels back and forth during leg press exercise and extended leg calf raise exercise. The user support assembly pivots up and down during seated calf raise exercise. A movable brace assembly mounted to the user support assembly adjusts to a first position for engaging a user's legs during seated calf raise exercise and a second position storing the brace assembly during leg press exercise.
US08262540B2 Shift control device for work vehicle
A shift control device for a work vehicle that has a stepped automatic transmission includes: a control device that controls an engine rotation rate at the work vehicle and the stepped automatic transmission; a forward/reverse switchover member that outputs a forward/reverse switchover command for the work vehicle; and an operation quantity detection device that detects an accelerator pedal operation quantity in the work vehicle is operated. As the forward/reverse switchover command is output via the forward/reverse switchover member, the control device executes forward/reverse switchover control for the stepped automatic transmission and also controls the engine rotation rate so as to decrease the engine rotation rate gradually to a target lower limit value selected to ensure that a reverse rotation of a turbine runner at a torque converter in the work vehicle does not occur.
US08262539B2 Power transmitting apparatus
A power transmitting apparatus, such an automotive transmission, adapted to properly select transmission of or cutting-off of a driving force of the driving source to or from the wheels of a vehicle can include a torque converter having a torque amplifying function. A clutch mechanism can include a first clutch device configured to transmit the driving force to the wheels through the torque converter and a second clutch device configured to transmit the driving force without passing through the torque converter. A selecting device can control the first clutch device or the second clutch device in accordance with conditions of the vehicle including starting from a stop. An input-side measuring device can be used to measure an input-side rotational speed of the first clutch device and an output-side measuring device can be used for measuring an output-side rotational speed of the first clutch device. A slip ratio calculating device can be used to calculate the slip ratio of the first clutch device from the difference or the ratio between the rotational speed measured by the input-side measuring device and the rotational speed measured by the output-side measuring device.
US08262537B2 Method for transitioning control in a multi-mode hybrid transmission
A multi-mode hybrid transmission including a selectable one-way clutch and first and second torque machines transitions to operating in a target continuously variable mode including applying a selectable one-way clutch and controlling input torque and motor torques of the first and second torque machines using a second kinematic relationship. A multi-step process is executed to transition the first clutch to a deactivated state, transition the second selectable one-way clutch to the applied state, and transition to using the second kinematic relationship to achieve a preferred output torque.
US08262534B2 Transmission device with at least one planetary gearset and a frictional shift element
A transmission device (1) having at least one planetary gearset (2) and at least one frictional shift element (3) by which a ring gear (4), of the planetary gearset (2), can be connected to a component (5) that is fixed to a transmission housing. The ring gear (4) of the planetary gearset (2) is at least partially radially arranged within an inner disk carrier (6) of the shift element (3). The ring gear (4) and the inner disk carrier (6) are supported on a main transmission shaft (7) by a common carrier element (8). The ring gear (4) and the inner disk carrier (6) are radially separated from one another at least over a certain area.
US08262528B2 Power transmission device
A power transmission device 1 includes a power transmitting mechanism 15 having a first casing 3, a speed change mechanism 13 and first oil and an intermittent mechanism 27 having a pair of rotating members 17, 19, an intermittent part 21, an actuator 23, a second casing 25 and second oil. The second casing 25 includes a first casing member 33 having a cylindrical part 29 and one end wall 31 and a second casing member 37 having another end wall 35 connected to the cylindrical part 29 integrally. The second casing 25 further includes a sealing member 39 arranged between the rotating member 19 and the end wall 31, another sealing member 41 arranged between the rotating member 19 and the other end wall 35 and an O ring arranged between the first casing 33 and the second casing 37, respectively. The second oil is enclosed in the second casing 25.
US08262525B2 Hydrostatic-mechanical power split transmission
A hydrostatic-mechanical power split transmission with at least two continuous operating ranges for use in agricultural and construction machines. The transmission has a summation planetary gear and a clutch for forward drive (7) and a clutch for reverse drive (6) that are arranged upstream of the summation gear. The transmission has a first sun gear (13) and a second sun gear (14) and a ring gear such that the ring gear (15) can be connected to an output drive shaft (22), via a clutch for the first driving range (23), and the second sun gear (14) can be connected to the output drive gear (22), via a clutch for the second operating range (27).
US08262524B2 Hybrid powertrain
A hybrid powertrain is provided that includes an engine operatively connected with an input member. The powertrain includes a transmission with first and second electric motor/generators, a differential gear set having multiple members, and selectively engageable torque-transmitting mechanisms. The input member, the output member, the engine and the motor/generators are selectively interconnected through the differential gear set by engagement of the torque-transmitting mechanisms in different combinations. The powertrain provides multiple operating modes between the input member and the output member, including an electric-only operating mode in which the engine is off and both electric motor/generators act as motors to provide torque at the output member.
US08262520B2 Pulley assembly for a power transmission belt
A pulley assembly has a first body to engage a power transmission belt. The first body is rotatable around a first axis. A second body is movable relative to the first body around the first axis. First and second axially spaced elastic members each has a radially inner portion and a radially outer portion. One of: (a) the radially inner portions of the first and second members; and (b) the radially outer portions of the first and second members are: (i) coupled to move together around the first axis; and (ii) each movable relative to the first and second bodies around the first axis. The other of: (a) the radially inner portions of the first and second members; and (b) the radially outer portions of the first and second members are fixedly coupled, one each to the first and second bodies, to follow movement of the first and second bodies around the first axis.
US08262519B2 Sport ball casing and methods of manufacturing the casing
A sport ball may include a casing and a bladder located within the casing. The casing may include a plurality of panel elements joined to each other with welds, and portions of the panel elements that include the welds may project toward an interior of the ball. A method of manufacturing a sport ball may include providing a plurality of casing elements that include a thermoplastic polymer material. Edges of the casing elements are welded to each other to join the casing elements. The casing elements may then be turned inside-out through an aperture formed by at least one of the casing elements, and the aperture may be sealed.
US08262518B2 Arrow point alignment system
An arrow apparatus is disclosed comprising an arrow point alignment structure having a tapered leading end disposed on an outer surface of an arrow shaft. The arrow point may also comprise a tapered aperture defined therein for receiving and mating with at least a portion of the tapered leading end of the arrow point alignment structure in order to bring the arrow point into axial alignment with the arrow shaft. The arrow point alignment structure may be integrally formed with, or affixed to, the outer surface of the arrow shaft or affixed to a portion of the arrow point. The arrow apparatus may also further comprise an insert at least partially disposed within the arrow shaft. The insert may comprise a first insert portion removably attached to a second insert portion that weighs less than the first insert portion. Various arrow points and corresponding methods are also disclosed.
US08262515B2 Athletic training method, system, and apparatus
Apparatuses, systems, and methods are disclosed herein for aiding a user in learning and practicing techniques for performing a volley kick of a soccer ball. A volley kick training apparatus, as disclosed herein, is configured to position and hold a soccer ball to simulate to a user the scenario of kicking a soccer ball while in mid air to perform and achieve the volley kick.
US08262513B2 Low lift golf ball
A golf ball having a plurality of dimples formed on its outer surface, the outer surface of the golf ball being divided into plural areas comprising at least first areas containing a plurality of first dimples and second areas containing a plurality of second dimples, the areas together forming a spherical polyhedron shape, wherein the first dimples are spherical dimples and the second dimples are truncated spherical dimples, the first dimples having a first radius and a first, spherical chord depth, and the second dimples having a second radius larger than the first radius and having a second, truncated chord depth less than half the spherical chord depth of the first dimples.
US08262512B2 Golf balls having two or more core layers formed from HNP compositions
The present invention is directed to golf balls having a layer formed from a relatively soft HNP composition and a layer formed from a relatively hard HNP composition. Golf balls of the present invention have at least three layers, including an inner core layer, an outer core layer, a cover, and optionally an intermediate core layer. The present invention is not limited by which golf ball layers are formed from an HNP composition, so long as at least one layer is formed from a relatively soft HNP composition and at least one layer is formed from a relatively hard HNP composition. Relatively soft HNP compositions of the present invention comprise a highly neutralized acid copolymer preferably having a modulus of from 1,000 psi to 50,000 psi. Relatively hard HNP compositions of the present invention comprise a highly neutralized acid copolymer preferably having a modulus of from 25,000 psi to 150,000 psi.
US08262510B2 Golf ball with an ionomeric inner cover, stiff TPU intermediate cover, and cast thermoset outer cover
A golf ball includes a core and a cover disposed adjacent the core. The cover includes a thermoplastic inner cover layer having a hardness between 55 and 60 Shore D; an outer cover layer having a hardness between 55 and 60 Shore D; and a non-ionomeric thermoplastic polyurethane or polyurea intermediate cover layer disposed between the inner and outer cover layers. The intermediate cover layer has a hardness greater than the inner cover layer hardness and the outer cover layer hardness. The inner cover is formed from a partially- or fully-neutralized ionomer and the outer cover layer is formed from a polyurethane, a polyurea, or a urethane-urea blend.
US08262506B2 Golf club head with composite weight port
A golf club head having a face component, a crown, and a composite sole with one or more weight ports for receiving one or more weight inserts is disclosed herein. At least part of each of the weight ports is integrally formed in the composite sole, and each of the weight ports include a weight receiving region for receiving a weight and a screw receiving region for receiving a screw that secures the weight in the weight port.
US08262502B2 Metal wood club with improved hitting face
A hitting face of a golf club head having a location of longest characteristic time shifted away from the geometric center of the hitting face. In one embodiment, the hitting face is made from multiple materials. In another embodiment, the hitting face as a central zone that is thicker than the surrounding material. In another embodiment, a dense insert is attached directly or indirectly to a plate-like face insert at or near the geometric center of the insert. In another embodiment, the central zone of the hitting face is reinforced with ribs. In another embodiment, the central zone is elliptical with varying thickness. In this embodiment, the central zone minor axis is thinner than the major axis. The central zone is positioned within the hitting face such that the minor axis is oriented from the low heel region to the high toe region.
US08262501B2 Golf club head with improved performance
A golf club head with an improved sweet spot, defined as a portion of the striking face that has at least 99.7% of the maximum ballspeed is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention discloses a golf club head with a significantly circular sweet spot that encompasses at least about 1.5% of the total striking face. A golf club head in accordance with the present invention may generally have a improved face geometry with an elliptical factor of greater than about 0.5, a beveled transition portion around the striking face of the golf club head, a variable face thickness region with decreases thickness, or even a tilted bulge and roll radius all helping improve the performance of the golf club head.
US08262497B2 Golf club having removable sole weight using custom and interchangeable panels
A golf club head is presented comprising a sole including a removable panel secured to the sole via a non-threaded attachment assembly. Further, the removable panel may have a large surface area relative to its thickness, resulting in a chip-like or wafer-like weight member. This design allows the mass of the removable panel to be spread substantially along the surface of the sole as opposed to in the interior of the club head. The golf club head may comprise more than one removable panel. A removable panel of the present invention may generally comprise one or more discrete areas of higher basis weight or higher density. Even further, the removable panel may generally be releasably attached via a quick disconnect mechanism that allows easy interchangeability.
US08262496B1 Wood-type golf club head with adjustable sole contour
A wood-type golf club head with an adjustable keel zone member is disclosed herein. The golf club head includes a body and an adjustable keel zone member. The body has a front portion, a crown portion and a sole portion. The body also having a heel end, a toe end and an aft end. The sole portion has only a single keel point. The adjustable keel zone member is disposed within a keel zone of the sole and located preferentially with respect to the center of gravity. The keel zone member is capable of adjusting the face angle of the wood-type golf club head.
US08262493B2 Systems and methods for martial arts combat
Systems and methods are provided relating to martial arts competitions including martial arts games, team competitions, and a martial arts combat league. A martial arts combat league may combine traditional aspects of martial arts competitions with the appeal of rooting for a favorite team or individual competitor. Martial arts competition rules and scoring systems may be provided for the martial arts combat league. A martial arts competition area may be provided for presentation of martial arts combat league events. A novel scoring system may involve and inform fans of the martial arts combat league.
US08262484B2 Telescopic shaft for vehicle steering shaft and grease composition for lubricating telescopic shaft
A telescopic shaft for vehicle steering installed in a vehicle steering shaft. A male shaft and a female shaft are non-rotatably and slidably fitted to each other and an outer peripheral portion of the male shaft and an inner peripheral portion of the female shaft come in contact with each other to transmit a torque during rotation. A grease composition which has an apparent viscosity of 400 to 750 Pa·s (25° C.) at a shear rate of 10 sec−1 as defined in JIS K2220 is enclosed in a gap between the outer peripheral portion of the male shaft and the inner peripheral portion of the female shaft.
US08262482B2 Wireless communication game system and storage medium storing a wireless communication game program
A wireless communication game system includes at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. The parent device transmits a parent device program and game data for distribution and generation information indicating what generation the data for distribution belongs to when counting from the one in the parent device. Each of the child devices receives the data for distribution and executes the parent device program to update the generation information and transmit to another plurality of child devices the parent device program and game data for distribution and the updated generation information.
US08262477B2 Information storage medium, game device, and method of controlling game device
An information storage medium storing a program that generates an image of a virtual space viewed from a virtual camera, an operation object and a non-operation object being disposed in the virtual space. The program causes a computer to function as: an operation object movement control section that controls a movement of the operation object in the virtual space based on a movement instruction input about the operation object; a non-operation object movement/motion control section that controls at least one of a movement and a motion of the non-operation object in the virtual space; an attack target setting section that determines whether or not an attack target tracking condition is satisfied by at least one of the operation object and the non-operation object, and sets the non-operation object to an attack target tracking state in which the non-operation object tracks the operation object as an attack target when it is determined that the attack target tracking condition is satisfied; and a display control section that displays an attack target tracking notification image that indicates that the non-operation object is set to the attack target tracking state when the non-operation object is set to the attack target tracking state.
US08262476B2 Game apparatus, character and virtual camera control method, program and recording medium
To apply a certain change to a displayed image while controlling a position and direction of a character and a virtual camera. In changing a direction of a character card without changing its position, when the direction changes slowly a direction of a character changes according to change direction of the character card, and a visual point of a virtual camera moves circularly according to the change direction of the character. When the direction of the character card is changed fast only the visual point moves circularly and the direction of the character does not change.
US08262470B1 Multiple pull single token slot machine and method therefor
A slot machine has a wager receiving device to determine what currency is inserted into the slot machine. A processor is coupled to the wager receiving device. The processor executes program instructions causing the processor to: receive signals from the wager receiving device of the currency inserted into the slot machine; calculating a number of credits based on the currency inserted into the slot machine; and providing one of multiple credits for each paid credit or multiple plays of the slot machine per credit paid regardless of outcome of a previous play.
US08262469B2 Server based gaming system having system triggered loyalty award sequences
A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming tables. In one embodiment, the gaming system provides players with one or more loyalty incentives, such as one or more loyalty awards, utilizing one or more loyalty incentive award sequences. In one embodiment, the gaming system determines a loyalty award to provide to a player and then determines an appropriate loyalty award sequence to utilize to provide the player the determined loyalty award, wherein the loyalty award sequence is determined based on the individual gaming table at which that the player is currently playing.
US08262467B2 Wagering game system for providing gaming establishment with guaranteed theoretical winning percentage
A gaming system maintains a theoretical payback for a gaming establishment and comprises a plurality of gaming machines, a network, and a controller. The plurality of gaming machines are for playing wagering games having a plurality of symbols that indicate a randomly selected outcome of the wagering games. Each of the gaming machines has a theoretical payback that is associated with a math algorithm for generating the randomly selected outcomes. Each of the gaming machines has an actual payback of awards that are provided to players. The network is connected to the plurality of gaming machines. The controller is within the network and is operative to send instructions for transferring funds from a first account to a second account. The funds are based on a summation of differentials between the actual payback and the theoretical payback that occurred over a certain period of time at the gaming machines.
US08262466B2 Presenting and controlling wagering game marketing information
A network browser and toolbar objects are described herein. The network browser has a main display area that can display content. The toolbar objects can be on a wagering game toolbar that is a part of the network browser. The toolbar objects indicate information associated with wagering games. The network browser and the toolbar objects can receive and display content. Specifically, the toolbar objects can cross market affiliate content and wagering game content using features of the toolbar.
US08262456B2 Wagering game with community game feature
A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a community display for displaying a community game having a plurality of features for determining a community award that is awarded to all players at eligible linked gaming machines. The community game includes selection of a player at an eligible linked gaming machine to interact with the community game to determine the community award. One of the plurality of features includes a community free spin feature that awards free spins of a base wagering game to each player.
US08262455B2 Gaming device and method for providing player selection of modifiers to game components
In one embodiment, the gaming device and method disclosed herein provides a player one or more modifiers to apply to different components or characteristics of a game. In one such embodiment, the gaming device enables a player to selectively apply or associate a plurality of modifiers to a single game component or apply the plurality of modifiers across the plurality of game components. For each game component with at least one applied modifier, the gaming device disclosed herein modifies said game component based on each applied modifier. The gaming device generates any awards based on any modified game components and any unmodified game components and provides any generated awards to the player.
US08262451B2 Bingo system with discrete payout categories
Novel methods, devices and systems are described for mapping pay amounts for a variety of Class III game themes to a common set of bingo pay amounts. Each Class III game theme may cause a different type of entertaining display on a gaming machine when bingo is played, based upon a corresponding Class III game. Preferably, each Class III game theme will offer game play and paytable percentages closely matching those of the original Class III game. Some implementations allow flexibility in matching the probabilities of bingo outcomes and Class III game outcomes by mapping ranges of Class III pay amounts to a single bingo pay amount. Some implementations provide a system wherein electronic gaming machines presenting entertaining displays of various Class III game themes are linked to a single bingo server.
US08262450B1 Non-commission pai gow poker games, devices, systems and methods thereof
Methods of playing commission-free pai gow poker games are disclosed. The commission-free pai gow poker games have multiple features, including a novel push mechanism and a novel copy-fostering mechanism, that provide a gaming establishment with an adequate house edge without the need to charge a commission on player wins. The features of the commission-free pai gow poker games may be incorporated in one or more instruction sets or software configured in one or more mechanical devices and/or electronic devices. Furthermore, the features may be configured in one or more displays in communication with one or more servers as desired. Furthermore, the commission-free pai gow poker games may be offered in a non-gaming media environment as desired.
US08262449B2 Playing method of card game and game machine
A card game playing method, for performing a basic game and a side game, is provided, and includes the steps of: (a) dealing player's cards to a player having accepted participation entry, and dealing banker's cards to a banker, from a first card set consisting of plural kinds of cards, while in the basic game; (b) determining player's cards dealt to a player having accepted in excess of the number of players, based upon cards excluding the banker's cards dealt based upon the first card set, among the first card set and a second card set consisting of cards included in the first card set, in a case where the number of players having accepted the participation exceeds a predetermined number of players; (c) dealing the player's cards dealt in the step (b) to a player having accepted participation, while in the basic game; (d) determining a winner or loser, and paying out a payment, by comparing the players' cards with the banker's cards, while in the basic game; and (e) comparing all the players' cards in the basic game with the banker's cards, and paying out a payment of a jackpot to a player having a winning combination with a high payment among plural kinds of winning combinations, while in the side game.
US08262448B2 Gaming system, method and device including player/dealer role reversal for modified blackjack game
A modified version of a Blackjack game includes a plurality of Blackjack rules including at least one player rule and at least one dealer rule. The modified Blackjack game includes at least one deck of cards, a plurality of participant hands formable from the deck, and a plurality of game administrator hands formable from the deck. A game outcome can be produced by applying the player rule to at least one of the game administrator hands, and by applying the dealer rule to at least one of the participant hands.
US08262445B1 Live action multi-track skills game
A system and method for operation of a game in which teams of players attempt to negotiate through a track of rooms, or several tracts of rooms. Teams attempt to progress through the track by solving problems presented in each room thereby earning access to a following room, until the team completes a track comprising several rooms. A control system is operable to control flow of teams from room to room, and to control presentation of problem solving activities to the teams, and to interpret data from the rooms to assess the performance of the team, and grant access to a following room or to bar access to a following room and/or eject the team from the room to start over on the track.
US08262444B2 Electronic device with airflow reversal prevention assembly
An electronic device includes a housing, and an active fan and an airflow reversal prevention assembly installed in the housing. The assembly includes a first grid plate defining a plurality of vents, a second grid plate abutting against the first grid plate, a passive fan, and an elastic member. The second grid plate defines a plurality of vents being selectively aligned with the vents of the first grid plate. The passive fan is driven by air from the active fan to rotate, thereby driving the second grid plate to slide relative to the first grid plate. Thus the vents of the second grid plate are aligned with the corresponding vents of the first grid plate. The elastic member is capable of urging the second grid plate to slide to return, whereby the vents of the second grid plate are out of alignment with the vents of the first grid plate.
US08262442B2 Method and system for managing thermal energy in a building with duct for lifting installations
The invention concerns an energy management method in a building including a lifting installation with a mobile car in a shaft and a ventilation passage between the shaft and the atmosphere. The method includes the monitoring of at least one state parameter of the lifting installation; the evaluation, in a control unit, of the necessity to ventilate the shaft based on at least one state parameter; the switching of an obturator element associated with the ventilation passage from an open position, wherein the ventilation passages is essentially open, to a closed position, wherein the ventilation passages is at least partially obturated, only when the evaluation indicates that ventilation of the shaft is not required, the obturator element being prestressed in its open position. The invention also concerns an energy management system designed to implement the method according to. The present method and system are particularly suitable for installation of a lift in a low-energy or passive building.
US08262440B2 Concrete polishing extension
A Concrete Polishing Extension device for treating hardened concrete surfaces and more specifically interior surfaces of countertop sinks made from decorative concrete. The extension device has features for use with grinding deep, contoured surfaces of concrete. The preferred embodiment is comprised of an extended shaft with connection features and other features; a containment cap; a means to connect cap to shaft; an external sleeve that encircles the shaft; a slip ring collar; a means to connect external sleeve to slip ring collar; a bearing such as a thrust bearing; means to connect slip ring collar to bearing; and a means of the extended shaft used to contain bearing, slip ring collar and sleeve assembly. The device has a distal end with means to removably attach to a standard driver and a proximal end with means to removably attach to engage a standard grinding head.
US08262438B1 Knife sharpener
An apparatus for sharpening a knife comprising a clamping mechanism for holding the knife and a base rod mounted adjacent and perpendicular to said clamping mechanism. Two sharpening blocks are located on either side of the clamping mechanism and are slidably mounted on guide rods extending vertically from the base rod. The guide rods are movably fixed to any point along the base rod and can be moved about the selected point in two directional planes that are perpendicular to each other.
US08262432B2 Lightweight enhanced modesty sports bra cup
A lightweight enhanced modesty sports bra is provided. The sports bra comprises an interior liner layer having two faces and an exterior shell layer having two faces and a printed obscuration pattern in between the interior liner layer and the exterior shell layer. The interior liner layer and the exterior shell layer with the printed obscuration pattern are assembled in a way that provides modesty and the printed pattern is not visible from the outside. An optional layer called the intermediate liner layer may be placed in between the exterior shell layer and the interior liner layer.
US08262430B2 Animal shaped punch toy
A punch toy including an animal shaped body. The animal shaped body includes legs, a head portion having a mouth, a tail portion and a tube portion connected to an opening of the mouth portion. The animal shaped body is expandable and the tube portion is stretchable.
US08262426B1 Life vest with rescue handle
A life vest with a rescue handle located on the back side thereof. The rescue handle has a flange located at the lower end thereof, the flange being attached to the back side of the life vest with the rescue handle extending substantially vertically upwards. The rescue handle is attached to the back side of the life vest in a manner adapted to support the weight of a user. The rescue handle has a non-loop shape that eliminates the potential for entanglement with objects in the water.
US08262425B1 Solar surf board
The solar surfboard is a full functioning surfboard; it can be made in all sizes of surfboards, short board, long board or standup paddle boards. The solar surfboard works the same way as any surfboard, except it has a solar charging system under the fiberglass bonded to the foam core to keep it safe and waterproof, it collects the suns radiation and converts it into electricity for the purpose of charging small electrical devices, such as cell phones, I pods, mp3 players, and various electrical devices, it replaces the need for costly toxic batteries, and damage to landfills, the solar surfboard is a green sustainable energy source that can be used for charging when no electrical infrastructure is available, the thin film solar panels or solar cells used only weigh ounces, it looks the same as a regular surfboard and works the same as a regular surfboard.
US08262423B2 Method for performing overhead work using air-propelled vessel with articulating member
A method of using a wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of performing overhead work, such as installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or other terrain.
US08262421B2 Contact for electrical connector
The present invention relates to contact, including a mating end for mating to two or more contacts and a conductive section. The conductive section includes a crimping end which is adapted to receive an electrical conductor and for being crimped thereto and a shaft section which extends between the crimping end and the mating end and includes two legs.
US08262418B2 Implantable medical device headers that facilitate device and lead configuration variants
Implantable medical devices include headers having various features such as a modular design whereby the header is constructed from a series of stacked contact modules. Additional features include a feedthrough where pins exiting a housing of the implantable medical device extend into the header to make direct electrical connection to electrical contacts present within the header where those electrical contacts directly engage electrical connectors of leads inserted into the header. Other features include electrical contacts that are relatively thin conductors on the order of 0.040 inches or less and may include radial protrusions where the radial protrusions establish contact with the electrical connectors of the lead. Furthermore, electrical contacts may be mounted within the header in a floating manner so that radial movement of the electrical contact may occur during lead insertion.
US08262416B2 Dual-personality extended USB plugs and receptacles using with PCBA and cable assembly
An extended USB plug connector includes a connector substrate including a frontend having a first set of electrical contact pins disposed thereon and a backend having a second set of electrical contact pins disposed thereon. The first set includes a first row of electrical contact pins disposed on a top surface of the connector substrate and a second row of electrical contact pins disposed in parallel with the first row of electrical contact pins and interior to the first row of electrical contact pins, where the second row includes more electrical contact pins than the first row. The second set of electrical contact pins includes a number of electrical contact pins equal to the first row and second row of electrical contact pins in total. The second set of electrical contact pins are used to connect to corresponding electrical contact pads disposed on a printed circuit board assembly having a USB controller and flash memory devices disposed thereon.
US08262415B2 Methods and apparatus for reducing crosstalk in electrical connectors
A communication jack having crosstalk compensation features for overall crosstalk interference reduction is disclosed. In one embodiment, the jack is configured to receive a plug to form a communication connection, and comprises jack contacts disposed in the jack, with each contact having at least a first surface and a second surface. Upon the plug being received by the jack, the plug contacts interface with the first surface of the jack contacts. The jack further includes a first capacitive coupling connected between two pairs of jack contacts to compensate for near end crosstalk, with the first capacitive coupling being connected to the pairs of jack contacts along the second surface adjacent to where the plug contacts interface with the jack contacts. A far end crosstalk compensation scheme is also set forth.
US08262414B1 Connector
A connector includes an insulating housing, terminals assembled in the insulating housing, a first shell having a receiving space surrounded by a top plate, two lateral plates and a bottom plate for receiving the insulating housing therein, and a second shell having a base board electrically fixed on the top plate. Two sides of the top plate define two first openings spaced from each other and communicating with the receiving space. A rear side of each first opening extends forward to form an elastic arm with a free end arched downward into the receiving space. Two sides of the base board define two second openings corresponding to the first openings. A rear side of each second opening protrudes forward to form an extending arm resting against a top of the elastic arm for strengthening insertion and extraction strength of the elastic arms acting on a plug connector.
US08262411B2 Electrical connector having a crosstalk prevention member
The invention provides an electrical connector having a cross crosstalk prevention member such as a metal plate readily connectable to ground with simple structure of the connector itself. The electrical connector includes: a housing (10) with an receiving hole (120); contact groups (200a, 200b), being arranged on opposite sides of the receiving hole in the housing; and a multilayer circuit board (300) to be received in the receiving hole and interposed between the contact groups. The contact groups include ground contacts (220a, 220b). The multilayer circuit board includes a solid conductor layer (310) provided inside the multilayer circuit board, ground conductors (322, 332) provided on a surface of the multilayer circuit board, and through-holes (340) to connect the solid conductor layer with the conductors. When the multilayer circuit board is received in the receiving hole, the conductors are in contact with the contacts.
US08262407B2 Active copper cable extender
Methods and apparatus for reducing distortion in signals propagating through cables at data rates of at least 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) are provided. By connecting such direct attach cables with an active cable extender assembly described herein, data signals may be reshaped, retimed, and/or emphasized in an effort to increase the cable length between network devices while still complying with the signal quality requirements of communication standards, such as the SFF-8431 MSA, the SFF-8461 MSA, and the IEEE 802.3ba CR4/10 standards for Ethernet communications. Copper cable solutions with such increased cable length possible between network devices may provide substantial cost reduction when compared to optical cable solutions. Furthermore, by potentially increasing the signal quality effectively transmitted by a host, solutions utilizing embodiments of the present invention may guarantee host-to-host interoperability.
US08262399B1 Reconfigurable plug strip
A power strip for conducting electrical power between an electrical power outlet having at least a live receptacle and a neutral receptacle, and at least two electrical device power plugs, each plug having at least a live prong and a neutral prong. The power strip includes a first housing segment having a first receptacle configured to receive at least an electrically conductive portion of a first device plug and a second housing segment having a second receptacle configured to receive at least an electrically conductive portion of a second device plug. The second housing is coupled to the first housing for pivotal movement relative to said first housing.
US08262398B2 Coaxial electrical connector
A coaxial connector includes an outer conductor having a tubular section and leg sections. A central conductor having a mating portion extends in an axial direction within the tubular section, and the mating portion is centrosymmetrical about a central axis thereof. A dielectric block holds said outer and central conductors. The mating portion has a contacting portion, a transitional portion and a guiding portion, the transitional portion joins the contacting portion and the guiding portion together, the transitional portion is larger than the guiding portion and smaller than the mating portion at diameters thereof; wherein an acute angle formed by the transitional portion and the central axis is larger than an acute angle formed by the guiding portion and the central axis.
US08262396B2 Electrical connector with a handling portion with a cover
An electrical connector includes a housing, a plurality of contacts received in the housing, a shielding and a handling portion. The housing includes a mating portion and a connecting portion. The shielding includes a first upper cover and a second down cover respectively assembled on the housing from up to down and from down to up. The upper cover and the down cover respectively includes a pair of extending arm to combine to form a fastening portion located on the two sides of the shielding. The handling portion is fixed on the fastening portion and includes a connecting element, and a cover over mode on the connecting element, a pair of fastening arms inserted into the fastening portion of the shielding. The cover is apart from the housing.
US08262393B2 Rosary
A rosary prayer device has a ring or elongated housing containing a series of stops. The stops are arranged in five groups of five or ten with a starting space adjacent one of the groups of stops. A bead is positioned on the ring and sized to travel around the ring and remain between any two selected stops on the ring until pushed over one of the two selected stops. A user pushes the bead to the next stop after saying each prayer of the rosary.
US08262390B1 Vial for delivery of its contents without shards
A flexible tubular vial is plugged at one end. The plug is pulled out to open the one end and define a gap between the open end of the vial and the plug. A sleeve bounds the gap. The sleeve has a rib as does the vial (or an intermediate component) that block each other so as to limit relative movement of the plug between a retracted relative position that plugs the open end and a cleared relative position that clears the open end. By squeezing the vial, contents of the vial are urged out through interstices in the plug. The contents may be a teeth whitening composition gel that urges out through interstices in the plug to a brush-like applicator to be applied to teeth or may be a topical medicine to be applied to skin.
US08262389B2 Apparatus for explanting a dental implant from a human or animal bone
The subject matter of the invention is an apparatus for explanting a dental implant from a human or animal bone. In one example, the invention may use a trephine bur on the end side of which there is formed a bur bit. In one or more examples, an apparatus by which dental implants can be drilled out accurately is achieved by a guide pin that can be attached to the dental implant and by a guide element attached to the trephine bur, said guide element cooperating with the guide pin so that the trephine bur is guided in the axial direction of the guide pin.
US08262381B2 Mastering tools and systems and methods for forming a cell on the mastering tools
Mastering tools and systems and methods for forming a cell on the mastering tools are provided. An exemplary method includes emitting a first laser light pulse from a laser for a first predetermined time interval such that at least a portion of the first laser light pulse forms the cell on the mastering tool. The cell has an opening size within a range of 10-100 micrometers and an aspect ratio less than or equal to 1.25.
US08262375B2 Tube pump and rotor for tube pump
A tube pump rotor including a rotor element, a plurality of first swing portions supported pivotally at their base end portions by the rotor element, second arm-shaped swing portions supported pivotally at their base end portions individually by the first swing portions, rollers supported rotatably by the individual free ends of the second swing portions, and buffer members made to confront the side faces of the second swing portions so that the rollers may be individually directed radially outward of the rotor.
US08262373B2 Compressor having wire retainer
A compressor comprising a shell, a compression mechanism disposed within the shell, a drive shaft for operating the compression mechanism, and a motor for driving the drive shaft. A terminal is secured to the shell for delivering electric current to at least one of the compression mechanism and the motor. A terminal block is engaged with the terminal, and a wire carries the electric current from the terminal and the terminal block. A wire retainer located relative to the compression mechanism supports the wire in a predetermined orientation within the shell.
US08262371B2 Pneumatic control device for supplying hydraulic fluid
A pneumatic control device includes a base comprising a reservoir, a first check valve for only allowing hydraulic fluid to flow into the reservoir, and a second check valve for only allowing the fluid to flow out of the reservoir; a hollow cylinder comprising a spring biased piston; a body mounted to the cylinder thereunder and releasably secured to the base, the body comprising a stepped-diameter passageway with a poppet mounted therein; and a cover releasably secured onto the poppet. In response to feeding pressurized air into the cylinder, the fluid in the reservoir flows out during a first stroke of the piston, and the fluid is sucked back into the reservoir during an opposite second stroke of the piston. In one embodiment, the fluid is for actuating a machine vise.
US08262365B2 Method for operation of a compressor unit, and associated compressor unit
The invention relates to a method for operating a compressor unit, in particular for underwater operation. The aim of the invention is to minimize the risk of gas hydrate formation during the compression process. To reduce said risk, according to the method components of the compressor unit are supplied with anti-freeze and/or anti-freeze is injected into the flow path of the conveyed medium to be compressed. The invention also discloses a compressor unit, which operates according to said method.
US08262364B2 Wind turbine blades with improved bond line
A wind turbine blade includes an upper shell member and a lower shell member defining an internal cavity therebetween. The shell members are joined with a bond paste along bond lines at the leading edge and trailing edge of the blade. A seal member is disposed between the upper and lower shell members at a designed width of the bond line along at least one of the trailing or leading edges. The seal member comprises a dam on each of the lower and upper shell members that overlap in a mated configuration of the shell members.
US08262361B2 Wind turbine multi-panel blade
A wind turbine blade comprising at least one central spar longitudinal section and at least two shell longitudinal sections forming, respectively, the leading edge and the trailing edge of the corresponding blade section. The central spar is composed of two cap prefabricated panels and two web prefabricated panels placed side by side in a box shape. The shell longitudinal sections are placed adjacently to the central spar section and are composed of a single prefabricated panel or of two prefabricated panels. The aerodynamic profile of the blade being defined by the cap panels and the single shell panels or two shell panels.
US08262360B2 Wind turbine rotor
A wind turbine rotor comprising a hub and a plurality of blades. The hub comprises a plurality of sites, each having a pair of spaced apart annular bearings for receiving a respective wind turbine blade. Each blade has a spar extending along a substantial portion of the length of the blade and protrudes from the proximal end of the blade. The spar protrudes into and is rotatably received within the respective spaced apart bearings and is fixed to the hub.
US08262354B2 Method and apparatus for load measurement in a wind turbine
The present invention provides a connecting device adapted for connecting a hub and a main shaft of a wind turbine. The connecting device comprises at least one sensor bolt connecting the hub and the main shaft, wherein a stress detection element is mounted inside the sensor bolt. The stress detection element is adapted to detect a length variation of the sensor bolt and to output a sensor signal indicative of the length variation of the sensor bolt. A signal output device is used for outputting the sensor signal which is indicative of a stress applied to the sensor bolt.
US08262351B2 Casing structure for stabilizing flow in a fluid-flow machine
A casing (2) includes at least one casing structure (casing treatment) for stabilizing a flow in an area of blade tips of rotor blades (4) in a fluid-flow machine, with the casing structure (casing treatment) being provided in at least one stage on an inner circumference of the casing (2). To provide a casing which improves compressor stability, is simply designed, features low weight and operates reliably without heating-up fluid in the fluid-flow machine, the casing structure is designed as a duct (20) which includes a first end (21) and a second end (22), with the first end (21) issuing into the interior of the casing (2) in the area of the blade tips of a rotor blade row and with the second end (22) being closed.
US08262349B2 Adaptive compliant plate seal assemblies and methods
A steam turbine comprises a steam turbine casing, a rotor, and at least one compliant plate seal assembly situated between the casing and the rotor. The compliant plate seal assembly comprises a supporting member being stationary with respect to the casing, a plurality of plate members movably mounted to the supporting member and extending towards the rotor, each plate member being inclined with respect to a rotation direction of the rotor, and an actuator for selectively exerting a pressure to retract the plate members in a direction away from the rotor.
US08262346B2 Control ring for variable turbine geometry
The invention relates to a variable turbine geometry (12) of a supercharging device, in particular an exhaust gas turbocharger for an internal combustion engine. The variable turbine geometry (12) comprises guide vanes (30) that are assigned to the circumference of a turbine rotor and are operated by means of a control ring (22) that is accommodated on journals (16) of the guide vanes (30). The control ring (22) is locked on these supporting journals (16) of the guide vanes (30).
US08262345B2 Ceramic matrix composite turbine engine
In one embodiment a transition section for a turbine engine is provided that includes one or more components constructed of a ceramic matrix composite. The transition section may fluidly connect a high-pressure turbine and a low-pressure turbine within the gas turbine engine. The transition section may include a transition duct and a variable area turbine nozzle. One or both of the transition duct and the variable area turbine nozzle may be constructed of the ceramic matrix composite.
US08262344B2 Thermal management system for a gas turbine engine
A thermal management system and method for a miniature gas turbine engine includes a forward cover having a filter portion along an axis of rotation of a gas turbine engine, a first lubrication passage and a second lubrication passage.
US08262341B2 Turbine part of a turbocompressor and a method of avoiding carbon build-up in the turbine part of a turbocompressor
A turbine unit of a turbocompressor comprises a turbine wheel having blades and a flow channel for directing exhaust gas onto the turbine wheel. The turbine unit additionally comprises injection means for injecting carbon build-up preventing substance into the flow channel.
US08262338B2 Vertical axis dual vortex downwind inward flow impulse wind turbine
A wind-powered turbine has a housing with an inlet and an outlet. Located in the housing is a cylindrical stator array having a plurality of spaced-apart stators located in it. An annular cylindrical rotor array having a plurality of cups rotates about a central axis, fits inside of the stator array. The stators are positioned to cause air which flows around the outer periphery of the stator array to impinge on the rotors and an air handling system causes air entering the housing to be distributed substantially around the periphery of the stator array.
US08262337B2 Utilization of renewable energy sources with a passively savonius rotor (PVSR)
A Savonius Rotor may use the flow of wind or the flow of water from undersea current or tidal movement. The Savonius Rotor is passively vented and has a base support ring, and a space frame support structure supported on the base support ring. The space frame has building block cube elements which facilitate the ease of on-site assembly and erection. The space frame support structure supports sails and louvered panel assemblies for each of the cube elements. The louvered panel assemblies close passively when facing into the wind or ocean flow and open passively when moving into the wind or ocean flow. A distributed gearbox including planetary power takeoff assemblies located on the perimeter of the base support ring is provided for transfer of the extracted wind or ocean flow through the planetary power takeoff assemblies at points arrayed about the perimeter of the base ring.
US08262336B2 Method for handling welding gas bottles
The method of landing a welding gas bottle in a predetermined location on a support tray on a welding machine by providing a non-supporting area between two supporting areas and a having a hand truck which provides a welding gas bottle support which will fit between the supporting areas and allows the hand truck support to pass between the support areas of the support tray and thereby transferring the support of the welding gas bottle from the hand truck to the support tray by a pivoting of the handle of the hand truck.
US08262331B2 Integrated expanding sleeve hole filling threaded fastener
A novel fastener is provided which includes an expanding sleeve for receiving a pin where the pin has shank terminating at a first end in a pin head and terminating at a second end in an externally threaded portion of the pin. The expanding sleeve may include a hollow tubular shank terminating at a first end in a sleeve head and having an opening at a second sleeve end for receiving the pin. The sleeve head include an internal sleeve head surface for engagement with an external pin head side surface when in an assembled position. When the pin and expanding sleeve in the assembled position are inserted into an aperture in a structure, a gap is formed between the aperture and an outer surface of the expanding sleeve. The outer surface of the expanding sleeve radially expands outward into the aperture filling the gap upon engagement of the internal face of the sleeve head and the external pin head surface.
US08262329B2 Fastening device
Fastening unit and method for fastening components together. The fastening unit includes a blind rivet nut having a set head and a rivet shank, a screw with a screw head and a threaded shank, and a washer held on the blind rivet nut by the screw, and including a torque application surface and a projection projecting over the torque application surface at least in some sections. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US08262327B2 Dual-contact tool holder for lathe/miller
A dual-contact tool holder is provided for a lathe/miller, including a tool seat having an inner circumferential surface in which a circumferential groove is defined and an operation barrel having a circumferential surface in which holes are defined for receiving therein steel balls. The operation barrel forms a central bore in which a connection bar is movably received. A lid is mounted to an upper end of the operation barrel. The connection bar is coupled to a draw bar of a ram, whereby the draw bar of the ram, when caused to move upward, drives the operation barrel upward via the connection bar, causing the steel balls to move upward and tightly engage the inner circumferential surface of the tool seat to generate a dual constraint force for enhancing the fixing of a tool rest.
US08262325B2 Spade bit having threaded conical tip portion
A bit including a shaft defining an axis about which the bit is configured to be rotated. The bit further includes a blade having a first end attached to the shaft and an opposite second end, the blade further having (i) a first blade portion including a first shoulder defining a first cutting edge portion at the second end of the blade, and (ii) a second blade portion including a second shoulder defining a second cutting edge portion at the second end of the blade. The bit additionally includes a frusto-conically-shaped tip portion having an apex and being attached to the second end of the blade. The frusto-conically-shaped tip portion includes threads extending from the apex to a location adjacent to the first cutting edge portion and the second cutting edge portion.
US08262322B2 Pile with integral geothermal conduit loop retaining means
A pile adapted to be driven into the ground and having retaining formations to retain one or more geothermal conduit loops. Each conduit loop is formed by opposed longitudinal conduit sections interconnected at a lower end by an interconnecting section. The conduit loops are adapted for flow of a heat exchange fluid therein. The retaining formations retain the one or more conduit loops in close proximity to the pile through the attachment means as the pile is driven into the ground.
US08262320B2 Ballast-filled pipeline weight
A flexible bag-type pipeline weight, configured to straddle a pipeline, has internal tie means to prevent excessive bulging of the weight after being filled with ballasting material, thus facilitating installation in narrow trenches. Built-in loading loops facilitate filling the weight with ballasting material without need for special loading equipment. The bag-type pipeline weight is formed with a pair of leg sections on either side of a central, pipeline-receiving recess. Once filled with ballast, the legs remain separated, thus facilitating installation on a pipeline. The filled pipeline weight is also freestanding and stable for purposes of transport and storage prior to installation. Hoisting slings facilitate lifting and manipulation of loaded pipeline weights without the need for spreader bars.
US08262315B2 Hydroelectric generating station and method of constructing same
The invention relates to hydroelectric generating plants which may be prefabricated and subsequently exchanged for preexisting radial water control gates. The hydroelectric generating plant disclosed herein may be particularly advantageous for hydroelectric development of projects with preexisting submergible radial gates. Various configurations are disclosed which maximize generating capacity, hydraulic efficiency, and flood flow capacity, while minimizing weight and cost.
US08262314B2 Method for decreasing the intensity and frequency of tropical storms or hurricanes
Modification of tropical storms or hurricanes by mixing the upper layer of a section of a body of water with water from a lower section of the body of water. Rapidly mixing the warmer upper layer with the cooler lower layer cools the surface of the water, thereby reducing the amount of heat energy available to fuel the intensity and movement of storms. By cooling selected sections of water, the frequency, intensity or direction of storms may be altered. In one embodiment of the invention, a bluff shaped object is attached to a submarine to facilitate rapid mixing of the upper and lower layers of the body of water.
US08262311B2 Self locking mast assembly and method of making
A mast arrangement having two elongate individual masts. The first elongate individual mast comprises a hollow connector comprising an inner diameter. The second elongate individual mast comprises a protruding connector end. The protruding connector end telescopically engages with the hollow connector end. The mast arrangement also comprises a pin and slot arrangement and collars to connect the masts together and minimize unwanted disengagement of the masts from each other.
US08262303B2 Pre-designed face painting system
The pre-designed face-painting system consists of a protective mask, the pre-designed face painting, and a transparent film. The pre-designed face painting comprises a layer of ink that is mixed with an adhesive to apply the design to the face upon the application of pressure from the protective mask. The system requires removal of the transparent film, alignment of the mask, pressing the face painting onto the face, and removal of the protective mask. The face painting is easily removed after rinsing the face with soap and water.
US08262301B2 Developer spraying device for reducing usage quantity of developer
A developer spraying device for reducing usage quantity of developer includes a hollow inner tube unit and a hollow outer tube unit. The hollow inner tube unit includes a hollow inner tube and a plurality of nozzles communicating an inner portion of the hollow inner tube with external world. The hollow inner tube has at least one liquid receiving space formed therein, and the liquid receiving space is filled with the developer. The hollow outer tube unit includes a hollow outer tube disposed around the hollow inner tube and tightly mated with the hollow inner tube and an opening formed on the hollow outer tube and communicating with an inner portion of the hollow outer tube. The hollow outer tube is selectively rotated clockwise or anticlockwise relative to the hollow inner tube, thus the nozzles are selectively exposed from the opening or shaded by the hollow outer tube.
US08262299B2 Panoramic camera mount
A panoramic device includes a base member and a clamp member rotatably interconnected within a single plane of rotation with the base that includes a first rotatable knob to selectively inhibit the rotation of the clamp member with respect to the base. The upper surface includes a central region that is at a different elevation than another portion of the upper surface. The clamp includes a pair of opposed surfaces suitable to detachably secure a camera thereto. The one of the opposed surfaces is maintained in a fixed relationship with respect to the clamp member. The other one of the opposed surfaces is in a movable relationship with respect to the clamp member using a second rotatable knob. The first knob and the second knob are rotatably connected with respect to one another.
US08262297B2 Body having a dedicated lens for imaging an alignment feature
A body is configured for alignment to a substrate having an alignment feature. The body includes an alignment structure defining a viewing surface, and a dedicated lens adapted to focus an image of the substrate's alignment feature through an optically-clear material of the body and onto the viewing surface. In the fiber optic context, a lens body is provided for optically coupling a substrate's OED to a corresponding optical fiber. The lens body further includes at least one active lens adapted to cooperate optically with a respective OED. The dedicated lens is positioned externally to any optical path. An optical subassembly includes a substrate having at least one perceptible alignment feature provided in a predetermined spatial relationship to the OED, and a lens body secured to the substrate such that the image of the substrate's alignment feature appears aligned relative to the viewing surface.
US08262295B2 Pluggable optical transceiver module set
A pluggable optical transceiver module set includes an optical signal male connector with an elastic flake with an opening thereon, and an optical signal female connector with a bump, a holding rod and a driven element. When the optical signal male connector is plugged into the optical signal female connector, the bump is fastened in the opening, and the optical signal male connector is disconnected from the optical signal female connector when the holding rod is moved to rotate the driven element to press the elastic flake and release the bump from the opening.
US08262289B2 Reversible fastener for a resealable bag-type container
A reversible fastener is provided for a resealable bag-type container (100) having first and second opposing wall panels (102,104), each of the first and second opposing wall panels having an interior face and an exterior face. The fastener includes first and second closure mechanisms. The first closure mechanism (114) includes first and second complementary interlockable components (116,118) disposed on the interior face of each of the first and second opposing wall panels proximate a top periphery (112) of the first and second opposing wall panels. The second closure mechanism (120) includes first and second complementary interlockable components (122,124) disposed on the exterior face of each of the first and second opposing wall panels proximate a top periphery of the first and second opposing wall panels.
US08262286B2 Digital output temperature sensor
A temperature sensor generates a digital output signal representative of the absolute temperature of the sensor. The sensor includes a first circuit configured to generate a complementary to absolute temperature (CTAT) voltage signal and a second circuit configured to generate a proportional to absolute temperature (PTAT) current signal. A comparator receives the CTAT and PTAT signals and generates a comparison signal based on a comparison between the signals. A converter circuit receives the comparison signal and generates a digital output signal based on the comparison signal. The digital output signal is representative of the temperature of the sensor.
US08262285B2 Device for measuring gas or air temperature in a casing box
A device for measuring gas temperature in a casing box having different heat-generating units disposed therein. The device includes a temperature-measuring arrangement disposed substantially in a plane above the different heat-generating units. The temperature-measuring arrangement includes a matrix of uniformly distributed temperature sensors configured to measure a temperature of rising gas.
US08262284B2 Simulation test system for thermal impact ageing of power transmission insulator
The present invention relates to a simulation test system for thermal impact ageing of a power transmission insulator which simulation tests an influence of a forest fire on the power transmission insulator. The present invention provides a simulation test system of thermal impact ageing for a power transmission insulator, which includes a heating chamber provided with a flame supplying part and electric heating parts in fireproof walls and a partition wall having an opening/closing door in a lower part thereof; a cooling chamber placed under the heating chamber and provided with a cooling nozzle in a fireproof wall; a sample lifting device for selectively lifting a test sample up and down through the heating chamber and the cooling chamber; a door transporting device for slidingly moving the opening/closing door; and a central control part for controlling the flame supplying part, the electric heating part, the opening/closing door, the cooling nozzle, the sample lifting device and the door transporting device independently and respectively. Therefore, since the heating chamber and the cooling chamber are configured independently from each other, heating and cooling tests for the test sample can be performed individually or together.
US08262279B2 Automated recirculation system for large particle size analysis
The present invention relates to a wet-type recirculation system for particle size analysis of sample including coarse particles (hundreds to thousands μm). According to the wet-type recirculation system of the present invention, the mixture liquid is recirculated using not a single recirculation line but two recirculation lines between the mixer and the particle size analyzer and the recirculation lines are connected with the mixer at the upper inputting part side of the mixer to discharge the mixture liquid. Further, the rotatable baffle is attached to the inside of the mixer to generate vortex in a horizontal direction as well as a vertical direction within the reservoir of the mixer and the baffle is rotated by a pressure of the mixture liquid discharged from the two recirculation lines to form vortex. Consequently, the mixture liquid in which fine particles and coarse particles are uniformly mixed is provided to the particle size analyzer and thus reliable and accurate result of the particle size distribution measurement can be obtained when particle size measurement of sediment including from fine particles of several μm to coarse particles of thousands μm.
US08262276B2 Chassis assembly, illumination device, display device, and television receiver apparatus
A chassis assembly comprises a chassis 14 and lamp clips 18. The chassis 14 has mounting holes 33 to 35. Each lamp clip 18 includes a main body 27 to be mounted to the chassis 14, a lamp gripping portions 28 provided on the main body 27 so as to grip cold cathode tubes 17, and mounting portions 30 to 32 protruding from the main body 27 toward the chassis 14 side. The mounting portions 30 to 32 are to be inserted in the respective mounting holes 33 to 25. Rims of the mounting holes 33 to 35 are sandwiched between the main body 27 and the respective mounting portions 30 to 32. Three mounting portions 30 to 32 and three mounting holes 33 to 35 are provided in relative positions so as to restrict mounting of the lamp clip 18 to the chassis 14 in an orientation other than a predefined orientation.
US08262275B2 Portable electronic device
A portable electronic device comprises a housing, a display protecting lens, a display and a light guiding element. The housing has an opening and a trough defined therethrough. The display protecting lens is mounted in the opening of the housing. The display is mounted with the first light guiding element in the housing. The light guiding element is accommodated in the trough. The portable electronic device further includes a light guiding member located between the display protecting lens and the display, a portion of the light emitted by the display is guided by the light guiding member and then transmitted to the light guiding element.
US08262270B1 System and method for providing visual and audio alerts and cargo capacity on a personal transporter
A system and method for providing added functionality to a personal transporter by way of adding increased lighting, sound, and cargo carrying options is described. The system can include front, side, and rear lighting and an audio alert system. The system can further include flatbed structures for carrying hazardous or other materials, as well as cargo organizing systems for carrying supplies and equipment.
US08262268B2 Exterior mirror vision system for a vehicle
An exterior mirror vision system includes a driver-side exterior rearview mirror assembly mounted at a driver side of a vehicle and a passenger-side exterior rearview mirror assembly mounted at a passenger side of the vehicle. The driver-side exterior mirror assembly includes a mounting portion configured for mounting at the driver side of the vehicle, a driver-side exterior mirror housing, and a driver-side reflective element. The driver-side exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a driver-side light module and a driver-side camera. The passenger-side exterior mirror assembly includes a mounting portion configured for mounting at the passenger side of the vehicle, a passenger-side exterior mirror housing, and a passenger-side reflective element. The passenger-side exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a passenger-side light module and a passenger-side camera. The driver-side camera and the passenger-side camera may be part of a multi-camera vision system of the vehicle.
US08262267B2 Lamp device-integrated rearview mirror
A lamp device-integrated rearview mirror 30 includes a mirror member 34 oriented toward the rear side of a vehicle body and a single bulb 40 provided in a housing 31 attached to the vehicle body. The lamp device-integrated rearview mirror may also include a reflecting member 35 configured to reflect the light emitted from the bulb 40 toward the rear side of the vehicle body and a reflector 36 configured to reflect the light toward the front side of the vehicle body. The reflecting member 35 may be provided on the rear side of a lens 32 attached to the housing 31 to transmit the irradiation light, and the reflector 36 may be provided inside the housing 31. The mirror member 34 may be fitted in the opening portion of the housing 31.
US08262265B2 Lamp device
A lamp device includes a supporting housing connected fixedly to a base disposed on a supporting surface, and having an inclined top surface inclined with respect to the supporting surface. A lamp-mounting housing is connected pivotally to the supporting housing, has an inclined connecting surface parallel to and facing the inclined top surface of the supporting housing, and is rotatable relative to the supporting housing about a pivot axis perpendicular to the inclined top surface of the supporting housing between a first position, where the supporting housing cooperates with the lamp-mounting housing to constitute an upright structure, and a second position, where the supporting housing cooperates with the lamp-mounting housing to constitute a bent structure. A lamp unit is mounted to the lamp-mounting housing such that the lamp unit emits light toward the supporting surface when the lamp-mounting housing is at the second position.
US08262264B2 Interlocking system for hanging decorative lights and fixtures
A system of interlocking, rigid or semi-rigid, components which when connected provide a modular, easy-to-install, direct, decorative, lighting system.
US08262262B2 Gobo retaining spring system
Gobo wheel assembly has multiple gobo devices on a rotatable wheel. A central sun gear can rotate all the gobos. The gobos can be inserted and released from the wheel assembly.
US08262261B2 High power LED lamp for traffic light
A vehicular traffic light lamp includes a higher part defining final optic capacities of the lamp and composed by a truncated pyramid aluminum heat sink with plural sides, a higher area, and a lower plate; a high power led situated on each side of the higher part; a lower part comprised of an electronic component and a lampbase; and a transparent plastic cover.
US08262258B2 System for retrofitting an existing light fixture with an LED luminaire
An adapter plate is provided that fits an existing luminaire in place of an existing globe that mounts to the luminaire. A heat sink mates to the adapter plate and also houses a solid state light engine and associated electronics. The heat sink may provide an enclosed, protective volume for the associated electronics, such as a power supply for the solid state light engine. A globe mounting ring attached to the heat sink allows either an existing globe to be re-mounted or a new globe to be installed.
US08262255B1 Small sized LED lighting luminaire having replaceable operating components and arcuate fins to provide improved heat dissipation
A small sized recessed LED lighting luminaire having detachable and replaceable components to enable one failed component to be replaced while the remainder of the luminaire is used and not discarded. The LED lighting luminaire includes a detachable unit comprising transverse arcuate longitudinal heat dissipation fins for effectively dissipating heat, and a reflector having interior transverse circular baffles for aesthetically transmitting light.
US08262245B1 Solar pathway light
The present invention relates to a device for providing solar outdoor lighting including a generally U-shaped support pole. The support pole free-ends are spaced apart and attached to a base or substrate connected together by an upper joining section which connects orients and spaces apart the pole supports. Connected to the upper joining section is an electrical light source that is directed downward through a lens suspended below the joining section. Below the lens and above the base or substrate is a housing that includes the solar panel, a rechargeable battery, charging and illumination control circuitry, and activation circuitry to turn on the light at low ambient light levels. The support pole forms a safety barrier for the light source and solar panel from knocks while providing at least two poles for attached to a base or substrate. The present invention further relates to a water-resistant customer activation structure.
US08262239B2 Display filter having a great EM-radiation shielding effect and display apparatus including the same
A display filter and a display apparatus including the display filter increase a contrast ratio, increase brightness, and have a great electromagnetic (EM) radiation-shielding effect. The display filter includes a filter base and an external light-shielding layer formed on a surface of the filter base. The external light-shielding layer includes a base substrate including a transparent resin and light-shielding patterns spaced apart on a surface of the base substrate at predetermined intervals, and including a conductive material.
US08262238B1 Minimum retroreflectivity compliance system, method and assembly
A system, method and assembly for performing traffic sign inspections is provided. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a first plurality of sheetings that each have a combination of retroreflectivity and color that is different from the combination of retroreflectivity and color of each of the other first plurality of sheetings; a first clamp and second clamp for clamping one of said first plurality of sheetings to a traffic sign; a first handheld light source; and a first enclosure for removably housing the first plurality of sheetings, said first and second clamps, and said first handheld light source. The assembly may further include a second enclosure for removably housing a second plurality of sheetings that each has a combination of retroreflectivity and color that is different from the combination of retroreflectivity and color of each of the other second plurality of sheetings.
US08262236B2 Systems and methods for transmitting information associated with change of a projection surface
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods that are related to transmitting and receiving information associated with projection. For example, in some embodiments, a method includes obtaining information associated with one or more changes in one or more features of one or more projection surfaces; coordinating one or more changes in one or more features of one or more projection surfaces with one or more commands; and transmitting one or more signals that include the information associated with one or more changes in one or more features of one or more projection surfaces. In further embodiments, a content is selected responsive to the coordinating.
US08262226B2 Apparatus and method for an anamorphic Pepper's ghost illusion
An assembly and method of generating a Pepper's ghost illusion involving an image generation platform, such as a computer providing an anamorphically-distorted image coupled with some form of display projects an image, directly or indirectly on a spherical medium. The spherical medium reconstitutes the anamorphically-distorted image and generates a Pepper's ghost illusion of the reconstituted anamorphically-distorted image.
US08262225B2 Eye examination apparatus, method for manufacturing spectacle lens, spectacle lens, method for manufacturing multifocal eyeglasses, and multifocal eyeglasses
An eye examination apparatus includes an accommodation power acquisition unit, a corrected accommodation power calculation unit, a drive unit and an accommodative microfluctuation measurement unit. The accommodation power acquisition unit acquires an accommodation power which is determined from a difference between a near point and a distant point of an examined eye. The corrected accommodation power calculation unit calculates an integrated value of the accommodation power and a correction coefficient. The drive unit drives a vision target in a direction of an optical axis of the examined eye. The accommodative microfluctuation measurement unit controls the drive unit to cause the vision target to be arranged onto a corrected accommodation position corresponding to the integrated value, such that the accommodative microfluctuation measurement unit measures an eye accommodation function based on a frequency of appearance of a high frequency component representative of ciliary body accommodative microfluctuation.
US08262224B2 Binocular indirect ophthalmoscope
A binocular indirect ophthalmoscope that is adapted to be worn on a wearer's head includes a headband and illumination housing having an illumination source and a viewer module wherein the viewer module is moveable between an in-use and an out-of-use position. A mounting assembly is provided for allowing the viewer module to be pivoted between the in-use and the out-of-use positions and also allows adjustment and locking to the wearer's face in the in-use position. The mounting assembly includes a magnetic securement of the viewer module in both the in-use and out-of-use positions. Part of the magnetic securement operates as an electrical contact to automatically provide power to the illumination source in the in-use position. An optical polarizer provides intensity adjustment of the light energy transmitted to the eye being examined. Preferably the illumination source is a light emitting diode.
US08262217B2 Inkjet recording apparatus and method
The inkjet recording apparatus includes: an inkjet head which forms an image on a recording surface of a recording medium by ejecting ink to be deposited to the recording surface; a roller member which rotates in contact with the recording surface of the recording medium on which the image has been formed; an oil supply device which supplies oil to the roller member, the oil suppressing adherence of the ink to the roller member; a medium holding device which has a medium holding surface on which the recording medium is held while the roller member on which the oil has been deposited is making contact with the recording surface of the recording medium; and a cleaning sheet supply device which supplies a cleaning sheet to the medium holding device when a size of the recording medium is changed and an image is to be formed on a recording surface of the recording medium of large size compared to a size of the recording medium used before the change of size, the cleaning sheet removing the oil adhering to the medium holding surface of the medium holding device.
US08262215B2 Dot omission inspection method used in printing apparatus and the printing apparatus
Provided is a dot omission inspection method used in a printing apparatus for forming an image constituted by dots of first and second photo-durable inks. In the dot omission inspection method, an arbitrary image is formed by performing liquid droplet discharge of causing a liquid droplet of the first or second ink to be landed on a medium, performing provisional curing of irradiating the landed liquid droplet using light from a first light source so as to be provisionally cured, and performing main curing of irradiating the provisionally cured liquid droplet using light from a second light source to fix the liquid droplet on the medium. An inspection image is formed without performing the provisional curing on the liquid droplet of the first ink landed on the medium by performing the liquid droplet discharge, and by causing the liquid droplet of the second ink to be landed by performing the liquid droplet discharge at the same position as the liquid droplet of the first ink which is not provisionally cured so as to mix the first ink and the second ink with each other.
US08262213B2 Liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus includes: a liquid ejection head which ejects photo-curable liquid from a nozzle; a supporting member which supports, from a side opposite to the liquid ejection head, an ejection target to which the liquid is ejected from the liquid ejection head; a light applying apparatus which applies light for curing the liquid ejected from the liquid ejection head; and a control device which controls the liquid ejection head and the light applying apparatus. The control device controls the liquid ejection head and the light applying apparatus to execute: a liquid ejection mode in which the liquid is ejected from the liquid ejection head to the ejection target and the light is applied from the light applying apparatus to the ejection target; and a curing mode in which the light is directly applied from the light applying apparatus to the supporting member.
US08262211B2 Ink-jet printer
An ink-jet printer comprises: a platen plate including a plurality of recesses, which are formed and regularly arranged in a front surface by digging from the front surface toward the back surface, and a suction hole extending from a part of the bottom surface of the recess through the back surface; and a print head having ink-discharging nozzles arranged in a nozzle face which is arranged in a position facing the front surface of the platen plate. The ink-discharging nozzles are arranged between an opening end of the recess and an opening end of the suction hole excluding an area directly above the suction hole of the platen plate.
US08262210B2 Curable gel inks with reduced syneresis and halo formation
This disclosure is generally directed to curable gel inks, such as radiation-curable phase-change inks, and their use in forming images, such as through inkjet printing. More specifically, this disclosure is directed to radiation-curable gel inks, such as ultraviolet-light-curable phase-change inks, that comprise a curable gellant and a curable solid.
US08262197B2 Manufacturing method for liquid ejecting head unit, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting head unit includes liquid ejecting heads, each having a row of nozzles that eject liquid. The liquid ejecting heads are anchored to a base plate. An anchoring plate is anchored to the base plate and positions the liquid ejecting heads relative to the base plate. A reference mark is formed in the anchoring plate and a positioning mark is formed in the base plate for positioning the anchoring plate relative to the base plate. The positioning marks are formed along the direction in which the nozzles are arranged in a row. A related manufacturing method includes selecting the positioning mark in accordance with a predetermined resolution and anchoring the anchoring plate to the base plate so that the reference mark and the selected positioning mark are in the same relative positional relationship. The liquid ejecting heads are anchored to the base plate using the anchoring plate.
US08262192B2 Ink jet printer for printing electromagnetic wave curing ink
A printing device has a gas source, a printhead having a nozzle plate with nozzles in the nozzle plate, the nozzles are fluidly connected to corresponding pumping chamber and a gas outlet positioned adjacent to the nozzle plate. The gas outlet is in fluid communication with the gas source and the gas outlet is configured to provide gas to an exposed surface of the nozzle plate so that the gas flow is substantially parallel to the surface of the nozzle plate. Fluid that is ejected out of the nozzles has a UV curable component. After the fluid has been ejected out of the nozzle and onto a receiver, the fluid is irradiated and cured.